Just a bit of a diary...
with random musings and other inconsequential stuff...
with random musings and other inconsequential stuff...
You have arrived at - BETTY BLOGS 1
Items posted 2012 and some from 2013 have been deleted... this page continues at BETTY BLOGS 2
Items posted 2012 and some from 2013 have been deleted... this page continues at BETTY BLOGS 2
21st June 2015
We have a Summer Solstice birthday girl today - have a great day Jenny (Ian's fiancée). I wonder if anyone who pops in here tootled off to Stone Henge to watch the sunrise - known as Litha to those who follow the Pagan year (the second quarter point following the winter solstice). I love the thinking of the ancients and the way their lives were planned around the seasons and the farming year. |
We've had Fathers' Day visits with tea and cake moments. I like to spend a bit of time with the newspapers on a Sunday - I don't read the papers during the week, I get all the news on my homepage www.bbc.co.uk. Well done Andy Murray - tennis fans are happy.
We've done the hospital run to return the monitor - on the way home we called in to see my brother and sister-in-law in Fordhouses (Bernard and Trudie) - all seems well with them. Now we're rushing off to Telford to take Bern's (hubby) new badly behaved Epson printer to the manufacturer for some diagnostic treatment. just a little by-the-by: curiously, there have been many Bernards in my life - brother, husband, father-in-law, uncle, great uncle, plus a couple more twice/thrice removed relatives.
18th June 2015
Good morning - I've stuck my head out of the back door and it's quite inviting out there - bright and breezy. We're just off to the hospital now, back later for a gossip. |
Back again with attachments: sticky things, wires, and a monitor gismo for a necklace. It's only for 24 hours. Car parks were ram-jammed so I went up to cardiology while Bern hunted for a parking space. We had a sod's law moment: I was called in straight away and Bern arrived in the department having parked and paid £2.50 at the same time as I came out ready to go home. We had a quick look at Bentley Bridge shops while we were over Wednesfield way. I'm afraid I gave in to temptation and bought a pair of summer trousers in Laura Ashley.
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16th June 2015
We're promised another nice day - wonderful. I haven't been downstairs yet so I'll be back later for a chat. Have to empty the dishwasher right now and grab some breakfast. I'm unsure what else I might do before trotting off to the writers' meeting - it'll probably be a quick dash round the Co-op... the thrills and spills of my daily life know no bounds.
We're promised another nice day - wonderful. I haven't been downstairs yet so I'll be back later for a chat. Have to empty the dishwasher right now and grab some breakfast. I'm unsure what else I might do before trotting off to the writers' meeting - it'll probably be a quick dash round the Co-op... the thrills and spills of my daily life know no bounds.
Many CONGRATULATIONS to Jay and Lesley - it's their Silver Wedding Anniversary today. They were married in this ancient little church just a couple of hundred yards from Lesley's parents' home in the village of Greywell (Hampshire).. It was a boiling hot day - and we walked from Jack and Audrey's to the church - the bride and groom travelled by posh car but not a lot of fuel was required.
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Just looking at the church picture unearths memories - Andy (married last Christmas) was around 3 years old. I remember him stretching out on a pew soon after we were in church and promptly going to sleep in the middle of doing page boy duty. He managed to bounce back in time for the photos.
15th June 2015
Hi - it's just on coffee time as I join you today - I've brought mine (big red mug) up here to my little computer corner. Washing's pegged and as usual the odd weed waylaid me - I don't seem able to step outside without yanking up stuff that shouldn't be there and consigning it to the green bin. I've also planted basil and coriander seeds. The media is buzzing with tales of King John setting his seal on the Magna Carta I banged on about it this time last year so we'll give it a miss this time round. I'm going to glue my backside to the chair in a mo and try to come up with some homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. In recent I've been a bit lazy homework-wise so I'm going to give it a go this week. The old brain cells are not too hot on ideas these days. |
Did you watch the BBC Programme about the Royal Academy's Summer Exhibition? I wish they'd do further programmes about this annual event and let us see more of the diverse collection of entries they receive. It's great to see amateur artists having their work accepted.
Here's a link to a BBC video giving a more insight to the exhibition. This link takes you to a video of excerpts of the BBC programme. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-london-32995340 From this link you can view all the paintings in the exhibitions and select a gallery to explore. http://se.royalacademy.org.uk/ Whew! homework done - but only just, I did a piece of flash fiction of 200 words. A morsel of a story rather than a mammoth effort. I'll have to try to convince them that less is more. |
14th June 2015
First and foremost - CONGRATULATIONS to Cora - a keen writers' group member. She's the fourth one of us to have a story published in Saturday night's Express & Star. Well done Cora! |
Ann (my friend in Warwickshire) says two hedgehogs have taken up residence in their garden. She and Jim are pleased to accommodate their visitors as they gobble up all the slugs and snails. She asked what else might they like to eat when supplies run low. I've Googled (as you do) and here is what it says Ann...
Leave out foods like minced meat, tinned dog or cat food (not fish-based), crushed cat biscuits, or chopped boiled eggs. Specialist hedgehog food can also be bought from wild bird food suppliers. Never feed hedgehogs milk as it can cause diarrhoea; instead provide plain, fresh water in a shallow bowl. |
12th June 2015
Not much to say today as there's not a lot happening other than gloomy world news. Maggie says she wonders if the house martins will like these oh-so-tidy pristine nest boxes (yesterday's post) or would they prefer their own mud and spit. They do look a bit "Cold Comfort Farm" don't they? I've read through some reviews - one person said they installed a few under their eaves and they remained empty for a couple of years but now they're a much sort after des res. Another review said that they had tenants within a couple of weeks of putting it in place. RSPB website suggested leaving some mud around as the birds like to add their own touches to a new home. If a house martin wants to put his/her mark on a new gaff then a bit of mud fits the bill (or beak).
Not much to say today as there's not a lot happening other than gloomy world news. Maggie says she wonders if the house martins will like these oh-so-tidy pristine nest boxes (yesterday's post) or would they prefer their own mud and spit. They do look a bit "Cold Comfort Farm" don't they? I've read through some reviews - one person said they installed a few under their eaves and they remained empty for a couple of years but now they're a much sort after des res. Another review said that they had tenants within a couple of weeks of putting it in place. RSPB website suggested leaving some mud around as the birds like to add their own touches to a new home. If a house martin wants to put his/her mark on a new gaff then a bit of mud fits the bill (or beak).
I'm feeling pretty chuffed - I'm talking new phone now, not birds' nests. I've finally fathomed out how to do a selfie and send it on. Carol and Jay were the lucky recipients. I laughed my socks off because within seconds Jay sent one back of himself sitting at his desk in a tie and smart white shirt and the backdrop was a swish looking office. I hadn't imagined his place of work to look like that and I don't think I've seen him wearing a shirt and tie since his forces days and the odd wedding and funeral. Carol came back with "ha ha ha" - she refuses to do the "LOL" thing, for some reason she finds it annoying. LOL. I can imagine them them both inwardly groaning (mother's performing again) but they're kind enough to humour me. LOL.
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Anyone been watching Spring Watch? I was taken with the artificial nests you can buy for house martins - apparently they're having trouble building their nests with all the modern building materials i.e. plastic gutters and soffits. I'll get Googling to see if I can find them. Had a quick look - there's loads on Amazon, wide range of prices. There are some at a mid-range price in the RSPB online shop. http://shopping.rspb.org.uk/house-martin-nest.html
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10th June 2015
Good morning... our little family of birds in the nest-box seem busy. I think they are coal tits and not blue tits. I completed the writers' group programme yesterday - hope it's not too challenging. We also managed to get the new phone up and running albeit more by luck than judgement. Carol rang first thing - she said they had a fun day at the Harry Potter thing and there was the usual "cost a fortune" stuff to buy. She said Andrew declined a ride on Harry Potter's broomstick in fear of pictures ending up on Facebook - I suppose it would have been detrimental to his bridegroom-of-the-year image. I see Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, offers Harry Potter broomstick training. The pictures show broomstick riders actually getting airborne - whatever next! Andy...... fancy a trip to Alnwick? |
9th June 2015
E-mail received heralding the arrival of my new phone so I have to wait in - red carpet? Trumpet fanfare? Maybe not, but at least I'll be reconnected with the rest of the world once I've fathomed its mysteries. I've sent my apologies to Maggie (writers' group) and I'm salving my conscience by doing further work on the Autumn Programme.
E-mail received heralding the arrival of my new phone so I have to wait in - red carpet? Trumpet fanfare? Maybe not, but at least I'll be reconnected with the rest of the world once I've fathomed its mysteries. I've sent my apologies to Maggie (writers' group) and I'm salving my conscience by doing further work on the Autumn Programme.
8th June 2015
It' surprising what you can find out on Facebook - I was thrilled to read that Steve Law and Sara Skidmore's Dad have heard a cuckoo in Bilbrook. I was only saying the other day that I hadn't heard one for years - welcome back to Bilbrook little cuckoo, I'll be listening for your call. The cuckoo is actually a bit of a rogue, laying eggs in another bird's nest, leaving all the hard work feeding to another bird of a different species, but hearing the cuckoo call has us nostalgically hoping that England is still a green and pleasant land. |
Jay and Lesley popped in yesterday afternoon - they'd spent a jolly day repairing fences. He said over the weekend a chalked cross had appeared on the pavement outside their house. Jay came to the conclusion that prospective burglars had earmarked their place with a view to "doing it over". So he did a it of scrubbing and hey presto - mark removed. Then a second thought occurred. Maybe it was put there by a utility company needing to dig a hole to mess about with pipes and/or cables. Oh dear... if and when the men come to dig up the footpath they won't know where to put their hole.
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My grown up grandsons and other family members have been on a Harry Potter weekend to wallow in mystery and magic at the Warner Studios. Do I laugh or do I despair? I'll opt for a wry smile and join in the chant "Hogwarts for ever!" My favourites from Harry Potter are the Mandrake plants with their wriggling shrieking roots and the scary Whomping Willow.
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CONGRATULATIONS to Jan Spencer (writers' group) - Express & Star published her short story a few weeks ago - (see post 23rd May). I read in last night's edition that Jan has been awarded the £100 "Story of the Month" prize - well done Jan. She'll be star of the meeting on Tuesday. Then... icing on the cake and all that.... E&S published one of her poems in this week's edition, plus a feature article about her writing life and career to date which included a mention of our writers' group.
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Did I mention technology just now? I've been thinking about an article I read in Saturday's Daily Telegraph - maybe you saw it. It was entitled "Lost in Translation" and it was about emoji. I understand what emoticons are - those little smiley faces, or a thumbs up, etc. little icons that get added to text messages or e-mails to depict a mood or create a smile.
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I've discovered that things have moved on to a new level. Emoji can be read at different levels - the article indicates than an adult interprets them differently from the young techno-whiz generation. Apparently you can display one or several of these images to convey a message. I like this one (left) it means "where have all the odd socks gone?" (According to the Telegraph). There is even a website dedicated to the mystery of emoji and their meanings. You'd better take a look if you want to keep abreast of modern parlance! http://emojipedia.org/
Where will it end? Already we complain about the conversational skills of the young and their lack of vocabulary. Will language die out? Will future generations communicate via little graphics, sorry I mean emoji, on sophisticated gadgets (currently known as smart phones)? The world is becoming a scary place - maybe I'm over-reacting - just miffed about our weekend techno-failures... and missing my phone. |
5th June 2015
Grrrr! I'm seething... I've just tried to change my phone service provider i.e. from 02 to BT - because BT came up with a better deal. Loads of technical stuff to take on board but we plodded through the instructions. Received a PAC code (don't know what it is but we put did it) from 02 and a new SIM from BT. Then when everything should have been up and running my phone dropped a bombshell and told me it needed an "unlock code". Phoned 02 who said we can't give you an unlock code because you've already put in the BT SIM and if we give you a code it won't work. Phoned BT who said they can't help because we've already disconnected from 02. Catch 22 I guess. A newish phone is now no good because no one can unlock it. I didn't know the flipping things were locked in the first place and why didn't 02 tell me this when I first contacted them about transferring. And why wasn't I told it was "locked" when I bought it. Bring back jungle drums or smoke signals... sorry to anyone who's been trying to contact me - I'm incommunicado at the moment. And while I'm having a moan - thumbs down to BT and 02 - they're not very patient with oldies who are less than au fait with mobile phone technology. |
The wording on the FIFA logo is irony personified - for the good of the game! I wonder how many of the FIFA bigwigs are shivering in their shoes right now. It's about time the dishonest ones were knocked off their perches - I expect there are further revelations to come. Sadly many areas of sport are affected by corruption, greed, and dishonesty which contradicts the meaning of the word "sport" - competitors who have true integrity are not competing on a level playing field so the "best man" is never going to win. Soapbox moment over.
4th June 2015
Sorry I'm late getting here - it was art class this morning and I had to dash off in my usual tearing hurry having been reluctant to get out of bed. My other excuse is that the weather today is such a rare treat I've been outside all afternoon pulling a few weeds and then I sat watching two busy birds who are occupying a nest box in our garden. They were in and out all afternoon feeding their brood. The box has been there for several years and this is the fist time we've had a tenant - exciting! It looks like our young peregrine falcons have gone for good now - all grown up. But - I've just looked at the osprey and there are three tiny chicks being fed. (link 2nd June posting).
Sorry I'm late getting here - it was art class this morning and I had to dash off in my usual tearing hurry having been reluctant to get out of bed. My other excuse is that the weather today is such a rare treat I've been outside all afternoon pulling a few weeds and then I sat watching two busy birds who are occupying a nest box in our garden. They were in and out all afternoon feeding their brood. The box has been there for several years and this is the fist time we've had a tenant - exciting! It looks like our young peregrine falcons have gone for good now - all grown up. But - I've just looked at the osprey and there are three tiny chicks being fed. (link 2nd June posting).
Only one more art class this term before the summer break. Maggie and I have been watching Youtube videos about really "loose" watercolour painting so today we got all wet and sloshy having a go. Maggie did tulips and I did a sunflower - good fun but we didn't quite come up with a masterpiece. If you fancy watching the little videos demonstrations by Joanne Boon Thomas, here they are....
Poppies Maggie tried: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fg-yNMXLWF Sunflower one attempted by yours truly. I think Maggie did the best job of achieving the abstract watery effect we were aiming for. https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=joanne+boon+thomas+sunflower+demo&gws_rd=cr,ssl&ei=CXlwVZjiIpDB7Aail4PYBA |
3rd June 2015
What shall we talk about today? Are you watching the latest Mary Berry programmes - her absolute favourites? Another 'must' book and - I see it's half price on Amazon. I'm bemused by a text I've just received from Wolverhampton NHS trust - they want me to consider my recent visit to Outpatients and indicate to what degree I would recommend their services to friends and family. It's a new one on me and I don't even recall giving them my mobile number. I'm not complaining about the service they provided but the text seems like they are touting for business - I thought hospital services were overstretched. I had to respond with a 1 - 5 rating. I did so and was rewarded with another text asking for an explanation of why I gave them a number 1 for 'extremely likely'. Mmmm... is someone being paid to text all out-patient users?
What shall we talk about today? Are you watching the latest Mary Berry programmes - her absolute favourites? Another 'must' book and - I see it's half price on Amazon. I'm bemused by a text I've just received from Wolverhampton NHS trust - they want me to consider my recent visit to Outpatients and indicate to what degree I would recommend their services to friends and family. It's a new one on me and I don't even recall giving them my mobile number. I'm not complaining about the service they provided but the text seems like they are touting for business - I thought hospital services were overstretched. I had to respond with a 1 - 5 rating. I did so and was rewarded with another text asking for an explanation of why I gave them a number 1 for 'extremely likely'. Mmmm... is someone being paid to text all out-patient users?
I've spent time today making a start on the Autumn Programme for writers' group. Maggie's been having ideas for the next anthology - looks like it's all systems go preparing for next term. We have to get the programme out before everyone packs their buckets and spades and disappears to the seaside. Can't have them lazing on the beach with nothing to ponder.
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It was a busy morning at the hospital yesterday. Haematology first to part with five lots of blood. Then I saw the consultant who said my GP's main concern was my significant weight loss. There was much poking and prodding followed by a chest x-ray and an ECG. Still to come is a full body scan and a heart monitor. The consultant indicted that there's probably nothing wrong and all the tests are just to make sure nothing has been missed. I'm happy with that now plan to inhabit the planet for a bit longer.
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1st June 2015
Happy birthday Wendy - my sister in Caerphilly - I bet she'll be grubbing about on their allotment and chucking corn to the chickens. I thought our falcons had flown but Denise says she saw three of them wandering on the ledge - they venture off out of sight round a corner, but look ready to take to the skies very soon. It's just after midnight as I type this - I've had a look and there is only one in view perched high and enjoying the night air. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Happy birthday Wendy - my sister in Caerphilly - I bet she'll be grubbing about on their allotment and chucking corn to the chickens. I thought our falcons had flown but Denise says she saw three of them wandering on the ledge - they venture off out of sight round a corner, but look ready to take to the skies very soon. It's just after midnight as I type this - I've had a look and there is only one in view perched high and enjoying the night air. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
30th - 31st May 2015
We're having a quiet weekend - nothing much happening which is just as well as I've run out of steam. I was surprised to receive a hospital appointment for Monday 1st June in Saturday's post having only seen the doc three days ago.
Sunday lunchtime: Jay and Les called in - they were on their way home after spending Saturday in Chester visiting an RAF friend of many moons ago. They said it turned out to be a terrible choice for their meet-up as Chester Races were in full swing and the city was swarming with horsey people, plus it was holiday week so hotels and eating places were packed - everything was a bit push and shove.
We'll be in June tomorrow - and still winter seems to linger. There's been some wry comments regarding English summers over the centuries...
We're having a quiet weekend - nothing much happening which is just as well as I've run out of steam. I was surprised to receive a hospital appointment for Monday 1st June in Saturday's post having only seen the doc three days ago.
Sunday lunchtime: Jay and Les called in - they were on their way home after spending Saturday in Chester visiting an RAF friend of many moons ago. They said it turned out to be a terrible choice for their meet-up as Chester Races were in full swing and the city was swarming with horsey people, plus it was holiday week so hotels and eating places were packed - everything was a bit push and shove.
We'll be in June tomorrow - and still winter seems to linger. There's been some wry comments regarding English summers over the centuries...
"An English summer: three fine days and a thunderstorm."
Traditional saying |
"The way to ensure summer in England is to have it framed and glazed in a comfortable room."
Horace Walpole in a letter to William Cole (May 1774) |
"The English winter - ending in July to recommence in August."
Lord Byron |
29th May 2015
My little book says it's Oak Apple Day - the day to pin an oak leaf to your lapel to commemorate the restoration of King Charles II to the British throne on 29th May 1660 - his 30th birthday. We all know the Boscobel oak tree story but my little book goes on to say the name Boscobel was derived from the Italian bosco bello - beautiful wood. The Boscobel area was densely wooded with oak when King Charles was on the run.
My little book says it's Oak Apple Day - the day to pin an oak leaf to your lapel to commemorate the restoration of King Charles II to the British throne on 29th May 1660 - his 30th birthday. We all know the Boscobel oak tree story but my little book goes on to say the name Boscobel was derived from the Italian bosco bello - beautiful wood. The Boscobel area was densely wooded with oak when King Charles was on the run.
I've had messages from Maggie and Jackie (art group) - they turned up for yesterday's extra curricular session en plein air. As the weather was unkind they had a happy couple of hours in the cafe doing coffee and chat. There'll probably be a couple more planned to see us through the summer break with the weather deciding if we doss around or do some work. I'm easy either way!
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My BLUE BADGE arrived this morning - it's not a bit like I imagined. Rather than a little blue card with your name etc on, it's like a giant credit card - a plastic hoarding (A6 actually). They didn't like the photo I submitted so they've digitally acquired the one on my bus pass which is akin to a facsimile of Frankenstein... enough to frighten away traffic wardens and clampers who might be peering at my credentials when I'm parked.
28th May 2015
Well... yesterday started as such a dull day and then it turned into a real treat. While I was up in my den blogging and generally messing about Doreen arrived out of the blue. A lovely surprise which cheered me up no end - cake and coffee. Then I had a doctor's appointment- I didn't really know what it is was for but the nurse I saw last week insisted I saw him. Later on Carol arrived as promised - at around the same time Jay tipped up on his way home from work. He'd ridden his fixed-wheel bike from Harborne, Birmingham (involves very sweaty lycra ugh!). I don't get the fixed-wheel thing - he tells me it's good exercise. Crazy or what? Anyway, we had a good tea and cake session with tales of their respective bank holiday breaks - the Mitchells in Newquay and Jay and Les doing Portmeirion with a wheel adventure on the way home. The boys' visit to Newquay to surprise Gary worked a treat. Carol and Gary were sitting daydreaming on the seafront when a football landed near Gary. Someone shouted "can we have the ball back please?" Of course it was Ian, Andy, Jon Jenny and Rajni - laughter enough to alarm passers-by ensued.
Back to the doctor: he seems to think something else is going on other than my spine problem so there's another appointment in the pipeline to see a specialist. He didn't indicate what the specialist is a specialist in - I'll find out when the times comes. I wonder why I didn't think to ask. Oh well... it lends a bit of intrigue.
Just noticed it's lilac time - a couple of trees up the street have burst into abundant blossom - lovely!
Well... yesterday started as such a dull day and then it turned into a real treat. While I was up in my den blogging and generally messing about Doreen arrived out of the blue. A lovely surprise which cheered me up no end - cake and coffee. Then I had a doctor's appointment- I didn't really know what it is was for but the nurse I saw last week insisted I saw him. Later on Carol arrived as promised - at around the same time Jay tipped up on his way home from work. He'd ridden his fixed-wheel bike from Harborne, Birmingham (involves very sweaty lycra ugh!). I don't get the fixed-wheel thing - he tells me it's good exercise. Crazy or what? Anyway, we had a good tea and cake session with tales of their respective bank holiday breaks - the Mitchells in Newquay and Jay and Les doing Portmeirion with a wheel adventure on the way home. The boys' visit to Newquay to surprise Gary worked a treat. Carol and Gary were sitting daydreaming on the seafront when a football landed near Gary. Someone shouted "can we have the ball back please?" Of course it was Ian, Andy, Jon Jenny and Rajni - laughter enough to alarm passers-by ensued.
Back to the doctor: he seems to think something else is going on other than my spine problem so there's another appointment in the pipeline to see a specialist. He didn't indicate what the specialist is a specialist in - I'll find out when the times comes. I wonder why I didn't think to ask. Oh well... it lends a bit of intrigue.
Just noticed it's lilac time - a couple of trees up the street have burst into abundant blossom - lovely!
A few art group members had planned to have an outdoor sketching session in Codsall Wood by the Ledene golf place and nearby coffee shop. It's turned out to be too damp and draughty today for an en plein air exercise. I'm going to get the sewing machine out now to alter some trousers and a skirt - temporary tucks with safety pins just won't do any longer.
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I know we've been aware of the problem for quite a time, but I find this morning's chicken news very scary - Food bug 'found in 73% of chickens' Nearly three-quarters of fresh shop-bought chickens test positive for food poisoning bug campylobacter in year-long study - which means they're no nearer resolving the problem. Where do we go from here?
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27th May 2015
I can't find much to chat about today - I don't feel inclined to chew over the world's disasters, worrying as they are. Radio 4 is on at the moment and I'm listening to some old chaps relating their experiences as Bevin Boys during WWII. They were ordered to work down the mines rather than being conscripted into the armed forces. They were denied a choice - if they refused the mines they faced imprisonment. They received no recognition for their years down the mines - no service medals, demob perks, etc which service personnel received and it wasn't until 1995 that their contribution to the war effort was acknowledged and they were officially allowed to be represented at the annual memorial events. They spent the War underground doing an awful job and yet they were left feeling undervalued and forgotten and often faced hostility from the general public who thought they were "not doing bit". Strikes me that around 48,000 young men had a bit of raw deal. |
Text from Carol: she's calling in after work today so it'll be "kettle on" - good job I made a cake yesterday. Carried out another interesting task this morning before popping in here - I tidied the airing cupboard. Don't you crave similar excitement? My sunflower seeds have just peeped through - now to make sure the slugs don't get them. I almost forgot to tell you, I had a call yesterday to say I will be getting a Blue Badge - I was somewhat bemused because the caller asked if I'd paid £10. I assured her I had and that my cheque accompanied the completed application forms - true to form admin goes awry.
26th May 2015
I have to keep reminding myself that it's Tuesday when it feels like Monday. No writers' group and art class this week - with my week deconstructed I'm never going to know what day it is. I guess the holiday trippers have returned to work this morning - I checked on them all last night to ensure they were all safely back under their own roofs. I can imagine the sighs and eyes rolling heavenwards as they patiently replied to my texts.
I have to keep reminding myself that it's Tuesday when it feels like Monday. No writers' group and art class this week - with my week deconstructed I'm never going to know what day it is. I guess the holiday trippers have returned to work this morning - I checked on them all last night to ensure they were all safely back under their own roofs. I can imagine the sighs and eyes rolling heavenwards as they patiently replied to my texts.
Thanks to Denise - she's found us another good read. "I Let You Go" by Clare Mackintosh.
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The peregrine falcons are out of their nest and parading on a concrete ledge high above the City of Nottingham - there's much wing-exercising going on - they look almost ready to fly. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
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25th May 2015
Bank Holiday Monday - I've done nothing more exciting than washing, weeding and watering pots followed by a trip round Facebook where I found that the young ones had posted lots more holiday pics taken in Newquay - looks like they've had a good time.
Bank Holiday Monday - I've done nothing more exciting than washing, weeding and watering pots followed by a trip round Facebook where I found that the young ones had posted lots more holiday pics taken in Newquay - looks like they've had a good time.
Jay has put the above pic on Facebook with the caption: "I spy with my little eye. What five things are wrong with this image?"
It's their old campervan - I wonder if someone has nicked his nuts. Er... I did notice that they've parked on double yellow lines to gaze at the missing nuts. Note for Lesley's Mum: Bern's phoned them and the RAC man has checked it over - all's well and they're on their way home. |
24th May 2015
I see Sweden won the Euro Song competition then. 24th May 1956 - the first Eurovision Song Contest took place in Lugano, Switzerland; the host country won. I had an achey time last night - my laptop kept me company while Bern was in the land of nod. I played Scrabble, Candy Crush, Word Battle, accompanied by a TV programme about Freddie Mercury and Queen - I've seen it before but one never tires of flamboyant Freddie. Bern can sleep through anything, it doesn't bother him that the telly is on and I'm mouse-clicking at a late hour. Let's hope we never get an earthquake - he just wouldn't notice.
I see Sweden won the Euro Song competition then. 24th May 1956 - the first Eurovision Song Contest took place in Lugano, Switzerland; the host country won. I had an achey time last night - my laptop kept me company while Bern was in the land of nod. I played Scrabble, Candy Crush, Word Battle, accompanied by a TV programme about Freddie Mercury and Queen - I've seen it before but one never tires of flamboyant Freddie. Bern can sleep through anything, it doesn't bother him that the telly is on and I'm mouse-clicking at a late hour. Let's hope we never get an earthquake - he just wouldn't notice.
Hope everyone is having a jolly holiday weekend. Our lot have taken to the hills - Jay and Les are camping in Snowdonia and Carol and Gary have headed for Newquay (Wales). I don't know if they were planning a quiet getaway - little did they know that the boys have followed them as a surprise. I've found the pics on Facebook so looks like things went to plan with Ian becoming master of the "selfie". I must ask him if he has one of those daft selfie sticks or is it just down to long arms. (Pictures courtesy of Ian's phone via Facebook via a prowling Gran and her laptop).
I see it's the Eurovision song contest tonight - not my cup of tea, I'll not be watching. I've started sewing up the crochet motifs that I mentioned the other day - a tedious task which has me doing a bit and then abandoning it for a while until I can drum up a bit more patience. I got carried away with the Sellotape this morning - I was wrapping a little gift to post for my sister's birthday and find I've barely left room for stamps; and goodness knows how she's going to open it. Just a little challenge to fill time on her birthday. It must be that rasping rippy sound and general stickiness that enthralls me. Some people are easily amused and I'm one of them by the looks of it.
22nd May 2015
I've just found this on the BBC website - even after all these years the aftermath of war still lingers.... "An unexploded World War Two bomb, uncovered by builders near Wembley Stadium, is to be moved to a location where a controlled explosion can be carried out. Homes and businesses have been evacuated and the Army has built a blast wall around the bomb in case it goes off accidentally. The 50kg (110lb) device, thought to date from the early 1940s German air raids on London, was found on Thursday." |
I'm still plodding on with my crochet project - the chunky sweater I started around 11th May. I have a pile of little motifs that have to be pressed and then sewn together. I think the sewing up is the least fun bit. First I have to shuffle them about until they fit the paper template then sew them together to make a sweater shape. Hmmmm.... we shall see. I also have a growing pile of clothes that need taking in - boring job but it looks like I'll have to be having a sewing machine day.
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Aaargh... look what I've found on Facebook. Carol must have posted it there - they're Granny's little soldiers. The angelic sweet smile on the left is big tough Andy who was married just before Christmas. Jonathan in the middle and first born Ian on the right performing his switched on camera smile, and Gary of course. I reckon I'll be dubbed "Gran the Terrible" if any of them happen upon this.
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21st May 2015
I turned up at art class but wasn't very productive and Jose didn't make it after all, she was feeling under the weather this morning. Just the ups and downs of oldie life - but tomorrow is another day...
I turned up at art class but wasn't very productive and Jose didn't make it after all, she was feeling under the weather this morning. Just the ups and downs of oldie life - but tomorrow is another day...
20th May 2015
I've had to get myself organised this morning - no wandering round the web and whiling away the morning chatting here so this is a quick visit for now. Jose's coming around eleven so it's all systems go. I've pegged the washing, checked the downstairs loo, warmed the teapot, plumped the cushions and combed my hair. Just bracing my self for a marathon chinwag. |
Denise knows we're always on the lookout for a decent read. She's sent a message: "I've just finished "Letters to the
Lost" by Iona Grey - the best I've read for a long time." A little while ago she also recommended "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins. Carol has downloaded the free sample chapter of the latter one. You can do this via Amazon, download a free sample chapter to your Kindle. Useful facility before deciding if you want to buy the book.
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19th May 2015
Brrr.... judging by the short sharp showers April and May have got themselves mixed up weather-wise. Anyone have a stationery fetish? - There's nothing like a pristine new notebook. I've been looking round the Paperchase website. It's good if you've a yen for natty notebooks and/or other such stuff you don't really need, but find tempting. http://www.paperchase.co.uk
Brrr.... judging by the short sharp showers April and May have got themselves mixed up weather-wise. Anyone have a stationery fetish? - There's nothing like a pristine new notebook. I've been looking round the Paperchase website. It's good if you've a yen for natty notebooks and/or other such stuff you don't really need, but find tempting. http://www.paperchase.co.uk
17th May 2015
All's quiet on the Western Front this morning. I reckon the young ones have gone underground after last night's celebrations - not even a text. I think it's best we leave them to recover. Jay and Lesley were there so I was able to find out how Audrey is getting on after coming home from hospital. Lesley (who visited her Mum last weekend) said she's had a lung infection since coming home: we're waving to you Audrey - hope you're on the mend now. Andy and Rajni told me all about their new house in Pattingham. The move won't happen until around July time but they're excited about it all and looking forward to living Pattingham. Two of Rajni's sisters were also at the do - nice to meet up with them all again.
All's quiet on the Western Front this morning. I reckon the young ones have gone underground after last night's celebrations - not even a text. I think it's best we leave them to recover. Jay and Lesley were there so I was able to find out how Audrey is getting on after coming home from hospital. Lesley (who visited her Mum last weekend) said she's had a lung infection since coming home: we're waving to you Audrey - hope you're on the mend now. Andy and Rajni told me all about their new house in Pattingham. The move won't happen until around July time but they're excited about it all and looking forward to living Pattingham. Two of Rajni's sisters were also at the do - nice to meet up with them all again.
16th May 2015
We tootled over to Albrighton this afternoon - I like to look in the little boutique in the High Street. I bought a maxi-dress, reasonably priced, ready for the summer. Blue/grey, pink flowery pattern, but sleeveless. Don't worry, I'll not be foisting my wobbly bingo-wings on the world - a little pink cardi will hide them and go nicely with the colours in the pattern. I find that after taking sizes 16 and 18 for years, I only needed a size 12. Then home again, quick nap on the sofa and a snack before we were off again to Jenny and Ian's Engagement Party at Lichfield Cricket & Hockey Club. The family met for a meal prior to the party. (We passed on that as I'm not much into food these days). Refreshments at the party comprised entries to a baking competition. Guests arrived with their creations (in the style of Great British Bake Off). A panel of four burly blokes (including Jonathan and Andy) did the tasting and judged the many entries. Their calorie consumption must have been profound. I must admit I found it a bit stomach churning to watch them dive into so many calorific cakes, sumptuous chocolate extravaganzas, amazing muffins, a feast of fattiness. It was all great fun accompanied by lots of loud music. Pleading old age Bern and I (and Jenny's Grandma, Madeleine, my scrabble partner on Facebook) beat a retreat as things were warming up and getting louder. There were lots of sky-scraper heels and sparkly frocks - a lovely happy evening and great to see them all having a good time. |
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15th May 2015
Not much happening today - I've been to the Council Offices this morning and handed in my ream of Blue Badge forms, photograph, and £10 cheque: now it's fingers crossed while someone decides if I'm eligible for one.
Not much happening today - I've been to the Council Offices this morning and handed in my ream of Blue Badge forms, photograph, and £10 cheque: now it's fingers crossed while someone decides if I'm eligible for one.
14th May 2015
Had a nice surprise this morning - having read my moanings here my brother popped in to check if I was still breathing. He had stuff to moan about too - they'd had to shell out a substantial amount to have some poplar trees lopped plus the expense of a new combi-boiler. I think he was suffering a pain in his wallet. It never rains but that it pours - talking of which, we could do with a good shower for the garden, I think they've promised us one for today. I'm playing truant from art class again - couldn't face lugging all the stuff just at the mo. Shirley has left a me a nice message here (she's my brother's wife's sister). Shirley tells me that hubby Steve needed a blue badge, they popped into Codsall Council Offices and his arrived in the post within 4 days of their visit. I'd followed the instructions on Staffs County Council website and it took me three weeks just to acquire the flipping forms. Thanks for that Shirley - useful bit of info.
I've visited the Nottingham peregrine falcons. You can see the chicks' feathers appearing under their white fluff. It looks a bit cold and bleak up on that ledge this morning: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Had a nice surprise this morning - having read my moanings here my brother popped in to check if I was still breathing. He had stuff to moan about too - they'd had to shell out a substantial amount to have some poplar trees lopped plus the expense of a new combi-boiler. I think he was suffering a pain in his wallet. It never rains but that it pours - talking of which, we could do with a good shower for the garden, I think they've promised us one for today. I'm playing truant from art class again - couldn't face lugging all the stuff just at the mo. Shirley has left a me a nice message here (she's my brother's wife's sister). Shirley tells me that hubby Steve needed a blue badge, they popped into Codsall Council Offices and his arrived in the post within 4 days of their visit. I'd followed the instructions on Staffs County Council website and it took me three weeks just to acquire the flipping forms. Thanks for that Shirley - useful bit of info.
I've visited the Nottingham peregrine falcons. You can see the chicks' feathers appearing under their white fluff. It looks a bit cold and bleak up on that ledge this morning: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Hang on, door bell. It was the post lady bringing three packs of printer inks I'd ordered online a couple of days ago. Good product, pleasing prices, I've been using this company for a while: inkredible.co.uk. I read the enclosed waffle and couldn't help smiling. There's a paragraph that says "Your order was caringly picked by me - Barry...." Well, thank you Barry, it arrived safely and I've gently put in the printer ink drawer where it will be safe and cosy. By the way, I love your business-speak.
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13th May 2015
Crikey! Another creaky sort of day as I tried to do a bit of gardening, snail's pace of course. Had a doctor's appointment first thing as they wanted to check my legs and was told the pain I get is probably neuropathic - oh well, although it's still there, I now know what sort it is. [Note to self - must stop moaning!] Yesterday's writers' meeting was good - the homework was difficult but everyone managed to do a piece.
Crikey! Another creaky sort of day as I tried to do a bit of gardening, snail's pace of course. Had a doctor's appointment first thing as they wanted to check my legs and was told the pain I get is probably neuropathic - oh well, although it's still there, I now know what sort it is. [Note to self - must stop moaning!] Yesterday's writers' meeting was good - the homework was difficult but everyone managed to do a piece.
12th May 2015
I've just heard that there's been another earthquake in Nepal - it's impossible to envisage the abject misery of the Nepalese people, not to mention the impossible task of rebuilding their towns. I'd like to think that whoever forked out £102.6 million for a Picasso painting yesterday will be kind enough to send a few bob to Nepal - it would lend to perspective (no pun intended) to a desperate humanitarian need and a famous painting. |
I glued my backside to the chair yesterday afternoon and managed to do some homework for today's writers' meeting. I'm hoping to get there today. My Blue Badge application forms arrived this morning comprising a big fat wad that looks like being a bundle of fun and/or frustration to wade through. Oh well... needs be as needs must.
11th May 2015
Here we are at the beginning of another week. In seven week's time we'll be halfway through the year - what a thought. As you may realise, I'm waffling, which indicates I've nothing worthwhile to say. Ooh Bern's just brought me a cup of tea - very welcome - perhaps it'll wake up my brain. I've begun a new crochet project having downloaded a digital pattern from the Deramores website. You have to make a paper template in the shape of the finished garment with side and sleeve seams open so that the template can be laid out flat. Then you have to crochet lots of little motifs and shapes and use the template to fit them together before joining them. The pattern says you have to "mesh" them together but I'm inclined to use the word "codge" because I don't know how to "mesh". The yarn is super-chunky using a big fat 9mm crochet hook so it grows in minutes. It all sounds a bit hit and miss so I'll let you know if it works out. It is an Erika Knight pattern if you fancy having a go. I think it would look good with a brightly coloured vest or t-shirt showing through. |
10th May 2015
I'm an old lazy bones and didn't quite make it here - actually, I did, but not until Monday.
I'm an old lazy bones and didn't quite make it here - actually, I did, but not until Monday.
9th May 2015
We've hit a bit of a doldrums after the electioneering hype and whatever else did or didn't happen during the week - nowt for it but to make a cake or merely knit. Bern's gone off to the supermarket armed with list and shopping bags. My miserable feet have me shuffling round like a 90 year old - I keep telling myself to get a grip and plod on but there's not much plodding happening. Carol and Gary are coming later when Gary has finished his shift at work - I'll shove something in the oven so they can have a late lunch. I think Lesley is going to visit her Mum and Dad in Hampshire at some point this weekend - Jay can't go because he's on duty all weekend. They're all busy-busy while I laze on the sofa with my knitting. While I've been a bit inactive I've started watching Judge Rinder. Anyone else watch it? It's the sort of programme I disapprove of but end up seeing it through. It's only a few notches up from the Jeremy Kyle type show but I'm amused by his sardonic comments to badly behaved people. Not a good reason for watching it though - maybe I'm easily amused these days.
We've hit a bit of a doldrums after the electioneering hype and whatever else did or didn't happen during the week - nowt for it but to make a cake or merely knit. Bern's gone off to the supermarket armed with list and shopping bags. My miserable feet have me shuffling round like a 90 year old - I keep telling myself to get a grip and plod on but there's not much plodding happening. Carol and Gary are coming later when Gary has finished his shift at work - I'll shove something in the oven so they can have a late lunch. I think Lesley is going to visit her Mum and Dad in Hampshire at some point this weekend - Jay can't go because he's on duty all weekend. They're all busy-busy while I laze on the sofa with my knitting. While I've been a bit inactive I've started watching Judge Rinder. Anyone else watch it? It's the sort of programme I disapprove of but end up seeing it through. It's only a few notches up from the Jeremy Kyle type show but I'm amused by his sardonic comments to badly behaved people. Not a good reason for watching it though - maybe I'm easily amused these days.
8th May 2015
Just had to mention VE Day - I have very vague memories of a small street party in Homefield Road, Bilbrook, where we lived. I think it was the anti-joy of junket that pinned it to my memory. Do you remember junket? Why did they make that stuff? I never liked it and the grown ups thought they were giving you a treat. For those who don't know what junket is, it's a sort of jelly-come-blancmange, wet and wobbly, and made with rennet. Dictionary says: rennet is curdling milk found in the stomach of an unweaned calf. Best put that little fact out of your mind if you're ever confronted with a dish of junket. |
Well, the election results were a bit of a turn up weren't they? After all that, not to mention money spent on campaigning, it looks like we'll be tootling along as usual, give or take a few changes of who sits where in the House. Here's a link if you want to see the detailed outcome for South Staffs http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/politics/constituencies/E14000945
After we'd voted yesterday evening we went on to a "do" in the Crown at Codsall. It was a surprise affair for Dave Bloomer on his retirement from the retained Fire Service. Dave was Bern's successor as Officer in Charge some 25 years ago. Dave has set a new record by completing an astounding 44 years with the Fire & Rescue Service. He was only 21 when the crew began their time at the new station in the seventies, which means he's been at the station since it was built and leaves as it is demolished to be replaced with a more modern one. Congratulations Dave - job well done and you've made the record book. It was great to see old (literally) faces from the original crew - Bernie Plain, Wayne Tomlinson, Gordon Nuttall, Roger Southall, Steve Jefimik, a guy we always called Magic so I never knew his proper name, Gary Fern, Martin Scragg, to name but a few. As you might imagine the oldies got to reminiscing... while the women tried not to yawn.
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7th May 2015
I guess we'll be nipping out later on to put our crosses in the ballot box. I wonder who'll be sitting up all night watching the results come in. I'll pass on that one - I'm not a fanatic. I've checked on the little falcons - they're huddled up a corner trying to stay dry - mum is feeding them while dad is perched on a ledge. Loads of grey feathers about so I guess they've had pigeon for breakfast. I've had another bad night so I've missed art class again.
I guess we'll be nipping out later on to put our crosses in the ballot box. I wonder who'll be sitting up all night watching the results come in. I'll pass on that one - I'm not a fanatic. I've checked on the little falcons - they're huddled up a corner trying to stay dry - mum is feeding them while dad is perched on a ledge. Loads of grey feathers about so I guess they've had pigeon for breakfast. I've had another bad night so I've missed art class again.
6th May 2015
What a wet and windy old day we have today. Carol phoned first thing, seems all's well on the Shrewsbury front. I'm avidly dodging electioneering broadcasts now - I think the entire population will have lost the will to live if we hear any more promises, political back-biting, and aggressive media interviewers adding their spin to the confusion. They have a new tack now and are all busy with their "what iffing" i.e. speculating about what will happen if we don't have a clear winner. All I can say to them is "wait and see". Que serar, serar. |
I've had an interesting e-mail from my friend Rene (she comes to writers' group). She's been on one of her energetic jaunts visiting friends and family for a week. Here's a little snippet from her message telling me about her visits: "Have you been to Dover castle? One of the recent additions
is Operation Dynamo where you can spend an hour in the underground
tunnels which were used to mastermind the rescue of the troops from
Dunkirk. It was a unique immersive experience with state-of-the art projections
and sound effects. There were spitfires screeching overhead, bombs falling,
anti-aircraft guns firing and you felt you were part of it especially when you
reached the beaches with wounded soldiers lying all round hoping to get
on one of the boats. It gave you some small idea of the horror of it all." (This sounds like a visit to put on your "places to go" list).
"Another thing that greatly impressed me was seeing 'Way Upstream' by Alan Ayckbourn at Chichester Festival Theatre where the stage was completely filled with water and there was a real boat that could be driven around. The setting was unbelievable." |
5th May 2015
"Parting is such sweet sorrow...." My wardrobe was squodged (is there such a word?) maybe it's squidged. Everything crammed and virtually welded together - time for a sort out but oh the angst. I've weeded out some things that will go to the charity shop but I'm such a meanie there's not much life left in the stuff I actually chuck out. The de-clutter experts tell us if you haven't worn it for two years it has to go. They'e having a larf. I have things that can claim to be at least two figures old irrespective of them having been worn in recent years. I've only just parted with the handbag I bought for Jay and Lesley's wedding and it's their 25th anniversary this year. I only let it go because it looked like it was beginning to decompose. Maybe I'm a latent hoarder - the thing is I hate clutter hence the squodging and squidging so it looks like there's not much there. Let's close the wardrobe door, I'm digging a bit of a hole here with my contradictory notions.
Oh what a night - my legs spent the entire time protesting their bad luck to be attached to me - I didn't get much sleep and I'm feeling zombie-ish today. I'll be giving the writers' meeting a miss this week as I'm too achey to venture out and I may doze off before the afternoon is out. OK moan over - sorry to be a wet wimp.
Jay and Lesley called in yesterday afternoon. Jay had been off work all week with a flu type virus and was coughing big time. He managed to down some tea and cake - the perfect cure all of course.
"Parting is such sweet sorrow...." My wardrobe was squodged (is there such a word?) maybe it's squidged. Everything crammed and virtually welded together - time for a sort out but oh the angst. I've weeded out some things that will go to the charity shop but I'm such a meanie there's not much life left in the stuff I actually chuck out. The de-clutter experts tell us if you haven't worn it for two years it has to go. They'e having a larf. I have things that can claim to be at least two figures old irrespective of them having been worn in recent years. I've only just parted with the handbag I bought for Jay and Lesley's wedding and it's their 25th anniversary this year. I only let it go because it looked like it was beginning to decompose. Maybe I'm a latent hoarder - the thing is I hate clutter hence the squodging and squidging so it looks like there's not much there. Let's close the wardrobe door, I'm digging a bit of a hole here with my contradictory notions.
Oh what a night - my legs spent the entire time protesting their bad luck to be attached to me - I didn't get much sleep and I'm feeling zombie-ish today. I'll be giving the writers' meeting a miss this week as I'm too achey to venture out and I may doze off before the afternoon is out. OK moan over - sorry to be a wet wimp.
Jay and Lesley called in yesterday afternoon. Jay had been off work all week with a flu type virus and was coughing big time. He managed to down some tea and cake - the perfect cure all of course.
4th May 2015
Do you like Google Doodles? I can't resist viewing their subject matter. I see that today's Google Doodle tells us it's the 360th birthday of Bartolomeo Cristofori (that's a name and a half) he's the chap who invented the piano. Born 4th May 1655, Padua, northern Italy. Cristofori initially worked making harpsichords and clavichords and was employed by Prince Ferdinando de Medici, son of the duke of Tuscany. He is believed to have started work on what would become a piano in the 1690s and the first one is thought to have been made in 1709. A KEY time in musical history a-CHORD-ing to Google. |
We haven't planned to do anything special this bank holiday but the weather looks OK if you've a mind to do a bit of Maypole dancing. I've made a cake and skipped round with a duster in case anyone pops in. I've also done my morning snail patrol and pulled a weed or two. I'm sending telepathic messages to Bern about it being eleven-ish. Like me, he's glued to his computer screen and it's a matter of wills as to who wrenches themselves free to put the kettle on. Yay!!! Success!!! He's just asked if I fancy a cup of coffee and you've guessed my reply. Voila.... and you get to see my untidy little corner where I chat to you....
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3rd May 2015
It feels a bit warmer today so I managed to go round the garden and jump on a few snails this morning - little blighters are attacking the hostas as soon as they peep through the ground. The water butts are full - first time for ages. I've checked on the little falcons and there's one greedy little chap getting more to eat than the other three - I wish their mum would pay attention to "fair play". Here's the link if you want to see them and don't mind watching a mouse or some other creature getting torn into bite size pieces. There's a few feathers around the nest so maybe they're eating pigeons, a handy fast-food seeing as they're city falcons. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
It feels a bit warmer today so I managed to go round the garden and jump on a few snails this morning - little blighters are attacking the hostas as soon as they peep through the ground. The water butts are full - first time for ages. I've checked on the little falcons and there's one greedy little chap getting more to eat than the other three - I wish their mum would pay attention to "fair play". Here's the link if you want to see them and don't mind watching a mouse or some other creature getting torn into bite size pieces. There's a few feathers around the nest so maybe they're eating pigeons, a handy fast-food seeing as they're city falcons. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
2nd May 2015
So we have a new princess... welcome to the world little Princess No-name. I bet they've already worked out the half dozen names she'll be given but they're saving the announcement for later. We did our usual Saturday supermarket trolley shuffle - "how interesting" I hear you cry. In evening we went to a "do" - a 70th birthday celebration for Bern's cousin Carl. Very nice it was too, held at The Firs in Codsall. The nice part is meeting up with family members and twice-removed relatives whom you haven't seen since the last wedding or funeral. We sat with another of Bern's cousins, Reg, who had come up from Cambridgeshire especially for the occasion. Here's the three seventy-somethings looking a little older than they did when roaming the fields and lanes around Codsall in the forties and fifties. I'm too polite to mention the havoc that on odd occasions they're purported to have caused although Reg did do a bit of reminiscing this evening about when he and Jimmy Hannibus (apologies if that's the wrong spelling) did an experiment to find out if chickens could swim! I'll spare you the details but it did involve the local brook and a few stern words from Copper Casserley (I remember him - don't we all - shaking in my shoes). |
1st May 2015
Bit chilly for May Day I fear - and not a warm welcome for Green Man and the May Queen - which lends a bit of truth the snippet of folkfore that says, "He who bathes in May, will soon be laid in clay." A jolly little thought to dissuade you from an early morning swim in the sea, or even a quick dip in a tin bath on the back yard. I reckon these wise little sayings were dreamt up before they'd heard of taps, hot water, and bathrooms. |
A 1st of May first was the Penny Black stamp: it was the world's first adhesive postage stamp used in a public postal system. It was issued in Britain on 1 May 1840, for official use from 6 May of that year and features a profile of Queen Victoria. The Penny Black is not a very rare stamp. The total print run was 286,700 sheets with 68,808,000 stamps and a substantial number of these have survived, largely because envelopes were not normally used; letters in the form of letter sheets were folded and sealed, with the stamp and the address on the obverse.
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Aw.... I've just seen the little Nottingham falcons being fed. Four chicks all alive but it's worrying to see that there's always one who seems to get less food than the others. It looks flipping cold and draughty up on that ledge where they are - and their gravelly nest box looks bleak and uncomfortable. I'm glad I'm not a peregrine falcon.
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30th April 2015
I find the Liscard (Wirral) Chistmas tree story beyond belief - how bloody silly can you get? Because they were jeered at last year for a poor display they've put up this year's Christmas effort 8 months in advance. Why? I've just been listening to Sandy Toskvig on Radio 4's Woman's Hour - she's involved in setting up a new political party - should be interesting next time a general election comes up. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05s3gyy
I haven't gone to art class after all this morning. I didn't sleep very well last night - too many aches and pains. BUT, I visited my GP yesterday and he's decided to refer me back to the spine man I saw a couple of years ago - Mr Sahid. Maybe he'll be able to get my legs working again. Here's hoping anyway.
I find the Liscard (Wirral) Chistmas tree story beyond belief - how bloody silly can you get? Because they were jeered at last year for a poor display they've put up this year's Christmas effort 8 months in advance. Why? I've just been listening to Sandy Toskvig on Radio 4's Woman's Hour - she's involved in setting up a new political party - should be interesting next time a general election comes up. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05s3gyy
I haven't gone to art class after all this morning. I didn't sleep very well last night - too many aches and pains. BUT, I visited my GP yesterday and he's decided to refer me back to the spine man I saw a couple of years ago - Mr Sahid. Maybe he'll be able to get my legs working again. Here's hoping anyway.
29th April 2015
The death toll in Nepal is shocking isn't it - on seeing the news pictures I wonder how they will ever get their villages and towns sorted out. It's all very humbling when you see what the Nepalese people have to contend with right now, and then compare it with all the stuff we find to moan about. I've just heard on the radio that sales of fake tan are decreasing - maybe common sense has kicked in at last? I never did understand why people try to change their skin colour. I know people who moan about immigrants and then spend a fortune trying to look like them - what's that all about? I get browned off by bigotry. Time to worry about tomorrow's art class. I might have to rummage through some of my old art mags this afternoon for inspiration. A similar dilemma turns up daily - what shall we have for supper? Don't you get cheesed off with trying to think what to have for your main meal? We don't seem to eat so much these days - drumming up enthusiasm for food is tiresome but we do try to eat "healthily". (Except when I've made a cake.)
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A few April showers at last - it's unusual for the garden to be overly dry in April but today we're glad of a watering. Our lovely cherry blossom is getting tugged by the breeze and turning to confetti. During March and April the Japanese hold cherry blossom festivals, they even have experts predicting the times of blooming so that tourists can plan to arrive at just the right time.
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28th April 2015
Oh dear, sorry I didn't get here today to do a bit of waffling. I was busy trying to knock together a piece of homework for this afternoon's writers meeting. I managed a little story but it's not one worth shouting about.
Oh dear, sorry I didn't get here today to do a bit of waffling. I was busy trying to knock together a piece of homework for this afternoon's writers meeting. I managed a little story but it's not one worth shouting about.
27th April 2015
Monday morning and we have a tough dilemma - how do we face life after Poldark? I'm visualising poor Ross angrily rattling the bars of his prison cell until we get to the next series. oh the angst! It was a trifle icy first thing which had me worrying about all the baby birds in their nests getting chilled. I've just looked at the Mummy Falcon sitting on her chicks - they look a bit squashed but I guess they're nice and warm. Dad was perched on a ledge nearby but I didn't see whether or not he'd brought their breakfast.
I'm pondering a news item I heard this morning: (from BBC website) " People with lower back problems are more likely to have a spine similar in shape to the chimpanzee, our closest ape ancestor. A lesion which forms in the disc between the bones of the spine is the reason for the differing shape. It would have caused the vertebrae to change as humans evolved from using four legs to two legs. The researchers say their findings could help doctors predict who may be at risk of back problems." Fancy a banana?
Monday morning and we have a tough dilemma - how do we face life after Poldark? I'm visualising poor Ross angrily rattling the bars of his prison cell until we get to the next series. oh the angst! It was a trifle icy first thing which had me worrying about all the baby birds in their nests getting chilled. I've just looked at the Mummy Falcon sitting on her chicks - they look a bit squashed but I guess they're nice and warm. Dad was perched on a ledge nearby but I didn't see whether or not he'd brought their breakfast.
I'm pondering a news item I heard this morning: (from BBC website) " People with lower back problems are more likely to have a spine similar in shape to the chimpanzee, our closest ape ancestor. A lesion which forms in the disc between the bones of the spine is the reason for the differing shape. It would have caused the vertebrae to change as humans evolved from using four legs to two legs. The researchers say their findings could help doctors predict who may be at risk of back problems." Fancy a banana?
Talking of things achey: the family have been nagging me for ages to apply for a Blue Badge Parking Permit and I have to admit that I'm beginning to struggle to meander far. So... Bern phoned and asked for a form. They said leave a message and we'll ring back. Of course "they" didn't. The website said "apply online". We tried to apply online, duly filled in the form until we got to the medical bits - it wouldn't accept the dates of my ops and investigations - you were only allowed to quote within certain time parameters. Then came a message you can chat "live" online. So I clicked on the messaging box and whoever was supposed to chat online told me they were too busy. In the middle of all that, up popped one of those annoying boxes asking for feedback about their wonderful site. Red rag - bull - did I give feedback!!! Minutes later I received a very sweet e-mail telling me that a form would be in the post today - of course I replied just as sweetly with my thanks. Whether or not they'll actually grant me a Blue Badge remains to be seen - they'll probably deem me to be too grumpy to deserve one - it's a watch this space scenario
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26th April 2015
I need to do a few "waves" this morning - so here's waving to Audrey, now home and hopefully feeling better. Take things steady Aud and keep up the exercises. Waving to Rene - hope the holiday activities are going well - enjoy your break. Waving to bro-in-law Phil - Happy Birthday today. Waving to Gary and Jay - both suffering really nasty coughs and colds and refusing to give in. I've made a carrot cake so they'll be getting some of that to keep up their strength - my motto is, if all else fails, eat cake. |
25th April 2015
Grey skies this morning - it's the same in Nottingham for the chicks (just had a peep). I was awake early this morning and glad to get up to squeeze into my horrible stretchy stocking things - how geriatric is that? "Ooooh it's me legs...." I'm going to shuffle round the garden this morning to put some stuff on the roses to feed 'em up, I could do with someone putting stuff on me to get me going.
Grey skies this morning - it's the same in Nottingham for the chicks (just had a peep). I was awake early this morning and glad to get up to squeeze into my horrible stretchy stocking things - how geriatric is that? "Ooooh it's me legs...." I'm going to shuffle round the garden this morning to put some stuff on the roses to feed 'em up, I could do with someone putting stuff on me to get me going.
23rd April 2015
It's now the 24th as I write this. Apologies for not getting here yesterday. I went to art class followed by a quick trip to Sainsbury's, then poof! I ran out of steam. I'm so fickle these days with all my aches and pains so I left the rest of the day to St George. Here's my oil pastel pig - not a proper picture, just something I did on a whim because I was clean out of ideas. He looks a bit out of sorts but he'll do for roasting. |
I phoned Lesley yesterday evening to see how her Mum (Audrey) is getting on. She's still in hospital feeling a bit down. Her knee op went well and she's on track with the physio and getting moving again. All the other ladies done at the same time have been discharged - but Audrey has picked up a nasty bug - really bad luck and she's feeling rather poorly. GET WELL SOON AUDREY - we're thinking of you.
Moments ago there was a resounding plop through the letter box - some interesting mail, or so I thought. A sales letter from Talk-Talk, Coupons from a local garden centre for two cream teas for one, a pizza place leaflet with loads of vouchers, UKIP electioneering bumph, another garden centre thingy with half price cake, and a big fat catalogue of shirts we don't want. I've done my Earth Day thing and wanged it all in the blue bin but I'm agonising over the waste of paper, printing, wages of the persons who posted it all, wages of the post lady who delivered it all not to mention the overheads like shoe-leather, fuel, etc of everyone involved. All that concerted effort to stuff a pile of nonsense through our letterbox and in two minutes flat I've binned it. No wonder the planet is teetering on the brink and I'm going crazy.
Gosh I'm a bitch - I can see a lady a couple of doors away pegging washing. She's wearing a bright red dressing gown with spots the size of tennis balls. All I can think is giant ladybird. Anyway, it's time she was dressed, I can't be doing with people who flop about all day in their night clothes..
Moments ago there was a resounding plop through the letter box - some interesting mail, or so I thought. A sales letter from Talk-Talk, Coupons from a local garden centre for two cream teas for one, a pizza place leaflet with loads of vouchers, UKIP electioneering bumph, another garden centre thingy with half price cake, and a big fat catalogue of shirts we don't want. I've done my Earth Day thing and wanged it all in the blue bin but I'm agonising over the waste of paper, printing, wages of the persons who posted it all, wages of the post lady who delivered it all not to mention the overheads like shoe-leather, fuel, etc of everyone involved. All that concerted effort to stuff a pile of nonsense through our letterbox and in two minutes flat I've binned it. No wonder the planet is teetering on the brink and I'm going crazy.
Gosh I'm a bitch - I can see a lady a couple of doors away pegging washing. She's wearing a bright red dressing gown with spots the size of tennis balls. All I can think is giant ladybird. Anyway, it's time she was dressed, I can't be doing with people who flop about all day in their night clothes..
20th April 2015
Yet again we have many episodes of horror in the news - especially the tragedies caused by human trafficking. We trip out the phrase "...in the civilised world... blah blah...." but you only have to consider a few daily news items to realise it's far from civilised. Writers' Group meetings resume tomorrow. The book we had to read over the Easter break is "Must You Go? - My Life With Harold Pinter" by Antonia Fraser. I've written my review for reading tomorrow but I'll not post it here in case she sues me. |
18th/19th April 2015
Sunday: Carol called in this morning before going on to visit Andy and Rajni. Jay and Les have zoomed off to Greywell, Hampsire, to see how Audrey is recovering from her knee op. To while away the afternoon we did the old people thing and pootled round a garden centre and made an exiting purchase of slug pellets.
Such nice spring days this weekend, despite the cool breeze. We've galloped (or maybe shuffled) round the supermarket - our Saturday morning ritual. There were young people at the till doing fund-raising by packing bags. Bern promised to put money in their bucket if they let him do his own packing. By the looks on their faces I could see they were thinking "we've a strange pair of old codgers here". He's a bit fussy about what goes in which bag - needles to say we have to take our own bags. One for hard things like tins and bottles, one for "squashables" veg, bread etc, and then a couple more your allowed to use randomly. I've learned to stay well clear of the packing process and take time to read all the leaflets on display at the checkout. We do have fun!
Sunday: Carol called in this morning before going on to visit Andy and Rajni. Jay and Les have zoomed off to Greywell, Hampsire, to see how Audrey is recovering from her knee op. To while away the afternoon we did the old people thing and pootled round a garden centre and made an exiting purchase of slug pellets.
Such nice spring days this weekend, despite the cool breeze. We've galloped (or maybe shuffled) round the supermarket - our Saturday morning ritual. There were young people at the till doing fund-raising by packing bags. Bern promised to put money in their bucket if they let him do his own packing. By the looks on their faces I could see they were thinking "we've a strange pair of old codgers here". He's a bit fussy about what goes in which bag - needles to say we have to take our own bags. One for hard things like tins and bottles, one for "squashables" veg, bread etc, and then a couple more your allowed to use randomly. I've learned to stay well clear of the packing process and take time to read all the leaflets on display at the checkout. We do have fun!
17th April 2015
Good morning - it's a bit cool outside today but it's drying the washing. Oh the joys of living at the cutting edge - nothing to talk about except washing and weather. I've checked the falcons - the mother is huddled down on her gravel nest so I guess they've not hatched yet. I've phoned Hampshire to ask about Audrey but there's no one in. I'm going to have to bake a cake just to look useful. Carol phoned first thing - I enquired if she had anything for her lunch and she said, a choice between falafel and humus. Crikey, that's as bland and boring as washing and weather - time for a shake-up methinks. Falafel and humus - is that healthy eating or a self-inflicted suffering?
Back again: I've made a cake, just a Mary Berry sponge filled with raspberry jam.
Good morning - it's a bit cool outside today but it's drying the washing. Oh the joys of living at the cutting edge - nothing to talk about except washing and weather. I've checked the falcons - the mother is huddled down on her gravel nest so I guess they've not hatched yet. I've phoned Hampshire to ask about Audrey but there's no one in. I'm going to have to bake a cake just to look useful. Carol phoned first thing - I enquired if she had anything for her lunch and she said, a choice between falafel and humus. Crikey, that's as bland and boring as washing and weather - time for a shake-up methinks. Falafel and humus - is that healthy eating or a self-inflicted suffering?
Back again: I've made a cake, just a Mary Berry sponge filled with raspberry jam.
You know the people I mentioned the other day, the ones having a tree cut down, well I can see four sheds in their garden. I wonder what they keep in them. Maybe they're hoarders like we see on telly. They annoy me a bit because they don't live in our street - their garden ends at the bottom of our cul-de-sac. They've put a gate at the end of their garden so they can use our street as a short cut to the shops. They keep the gate locked - just as well I suppose or might go for a sneaky look in their sheds. There's only two of them in a three bedroomed semi - I'm wondering if it's stuffed to the gills and they've had to spread into sheds. Not that I'm nosey or anything.... I just happened to be looking out of the window..... as you do.... you know how it is....
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16th April 2015.
Tootled off to art class this morning - Roland was able to come as Pauline is still in hospital. It was nice to see everyone again and all were keen to get on with some work. I used oil pastel this morning which is always a bit of an adventure - the sticks are not suitable for fine lines so you have to employ different techniques to achieve a painterly effect. I like these juicy Sennelier ones - they're yummy and soft. You have to do a lot of blending which can be a messy business if you do it with your fingers. I sometimes use a blending tool. You can also use diluent and a hog brush to spread the colour. People who are keen on the medium employ all sorts of things to manipulate it, I've even heard of people using the back of a warmed spoon. Follow this link for more info on oil pastel: http://www.oilpastelsociety.com/professional-artists.html
I hasten to add that I'm not a member of the society - just a mere amateur dabbler. I didn't bother waving my picture at you - it's a disappointing half-finished pig.
Tootled off to art class this morning - Roland was able to come as Pauline is still in hospital. It was nice to see everyone again and all were keen to get on with some work. I used oil pastel this morning which is always a bit of an adventure - the sticks are not suitable for fine lines so you have to employ different techniques to achieve a painterly effect. I like these juicy Sennelier ones - they're yummy and soft. You have to do a lot of blending which can be a messy business if you do it with your fingers. I sometimes use a blending tool. You can also use diluent and a hog brush to spread the colour. People who are keen on the medium employ all sorts of things to manipulate it, I've even heard of people using the back of a warmed spoon. Follow this link for more info on oil pastel: http://www.oilpastelsociety.com/professional-artists.html
I hasten to add that I'm not a member of the society - just a mere amateur dabbler. I didn't bother waving my picture at you - it's a disappointing half-finished pig.
We went up to Bishops Wood yesterday evening for supper with Tom and Elaine - had a great time and talked the legs of their sofa.
15th April 2015
We've been promised another nice day so enjoy it while it's here. I haven't much to say today - there's not a lot happening. I've checked on our peregrine falcons - the mother is still sitting on the nest. I've not caught sight of the dad yet - hope he brings her some lunch. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
We've been promised another nice day so enjoy it while it's here. I haven't much to say today - there's not a lot happening. I've checked on our peregrine falcons - the mother is still sitting on the nest. I've not caught sight of the dad yet - hope he brings her some lunch. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Saying Hi to Audrey (Lesley's lovely Mum down in Hampshire - she pops in here most days). Good luck tomorrow Audrey (she's have a knee op). Everyone sends you their best wishes - we'll all be thinking of you tomoz. Just think about how you'll be leaping about again on that new knee. Love from Bilbrook Pattingham and Shrewsbury xxx
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I've enjoyed listening to this week's Radio 4's "Book of the Week". The Shepherd's Life by James Rebanks. It's exceptionally well written and it's read by author - his Lake District accent and direct way of relating events enhances the experience of hearing about his life and the hardy animals he cares for. . Here's a link to the podcast. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b05r3zjm
14th April 2015
Horror of horrors is happening right now before my very eyes - four houses away there's a man at the top of a beautiful silver birch. He's done stuff with wires and ropes and is now wielding a chain saw to massacre it, I've an urge to ring the murder squad. He's already brought down a holly tree and I could see little birds darting about looking panic stricken, I wonder how many nests have been destroyed. Annihilating trees is a crime in my book - especially a silver birch that has recently donned a dainty spring-green dress. Macho-man with orange helmet and weapon of mass destruction - go away. |
On this day: 1912 the ocean liner Titanic struck an iceberg (it sank on the 15th). 1931: The Highway Code was first published.
Phew! Macho-man has gone and the lower part of the tree survives - looks like it was just getting beheaded.
Phew! Macho-man has gone and the lower part of the tree survives - looks like it was just getting beheaded.
How are you coping with all the party political broadcasts? Right now on Radio 4 Woman's Hour they're discussing Hilary Clinton's bid for the presidency. Crikey - we've enough political diatribe of our own right now without listening to that - I'm just reaching for 'off' button. That's better.
12th April 2015
A few petals on our flowering cherry tree have revealed their pale pink loveliness this morning - it will soon be a burst of pink candyfloss. Denise has left us a message to say she likes Jan's Shrewsbury flowers (see yesterday's post) so much she'd made the picture her screen saver. How cool is that? I was informed the other day, having uttered the word 'cool' to no 3 grandson, that I should be saying 'sick' rather than 'cool' to mean 'good'. The complexities of modern parlance!
Re yesterday's printer installation. Surprise, surprise: computer is not speaking to printer, or maybe printer just isn't listening. We've read the waffle, Googled stuff, clicked on everything clickable but it remains mute. It says on the box that the air printer will communicate with desktops, androids, iPads, G phones, every flipping gismo on the planet, but we can't get it to speak to one Apple desktop. No doubt it's happily chatting telepathically with someone or something on Mars. These ageing two Earthlings cannot unravel the mysteries of an air printer. We plan to have another go today - we'll bang about, get ratty, then end up getting a man in at £50 an hour to make the bloody thing submit and do as it's told.
I've been reading about how the selfie culture is thriving. There's an interesting well-written item about it on the BBC website's "Magazine" feature. It's quite amusing - here's a link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-32248538
A few petals on our flowering cherry tree have revealed their pale pink loveliness this morning - it will soon be a burst of pink candyfloss. Denise has left us a message to say she likes Jan's Shrewsbury flowers (see yesterday's post) so much she'd made the picture her screen saver. How cool is that? I was informed the other day, having uttered the word 'cool' to no 3 grandson, that I should be saying 'sick' rather than 'cool' to mean 'good'. The complexities of modern parlance!
Re yesterday's printer installation. Surprise, surprise: computer is not speaking to printer, or maybe printer just isn't listening. We've read the waffle, Googled stuff, clicked on everything clickable but it remains mute. It says on the box that the air printer will communicate with desktops, androids, iPads, G phones, every flipping gismo on the planet, but we can't get it to speak to one Apple desktop. No doubt it's happily chatting telepathically with someone or something on Mars. These ageing two Earthlings cannot unravel the mysteries of an air printer. We plan to have another go today - we'll bang about, get ratty, then end up getting a man in at £50 an hour to make the bloody thing submit and do as it's told.
I've been reading about how the selfie culture is thriving. There's an interesting well-written item about it on the BBC website's "Magazine" feature. It's quite amusing - here's a link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-32248538
11th April 2015
I've just popped in for a Saturday chat and I can hear Bern muttering from across the landing - his printer gave up the ghost and he's currently trying to install a new one. Sometimes two head are better than one so I'm off to confuse the issue further. Back in a mo. I just have to show you this picture - Jan from writers' group posted it on Facebook. A magnificent display of spring flowers at Shrewsbury Castle - lovely photo Jan. This really is a picture that paints a thousand words about the wonders of spring, renewal, regeneration and the rhythms of the year. |
10th April 2015
Have a banana! On this day in 1633 bananas first appeared in London in the shop window of herbalist Thomas Johnson. This was the first time the fruit had been displayed in this way in England. It wasn't until the late 19th century that they were regularly imported into the UK. However, archaeologists found a banana skin on the south bank of the Thames dating back to circa 1500, indicating that at least one specimen had found its way to this country in Tudor times. Next time you're topping up your energy levels with a banana you might like to think about the fact that bananas are slightly radio active due to their potassium content - eat enough of them and you might glow in the dark. |
I haven't decided what to do with the rest of Friday. Housework? Gardening? Washing is done. Groan.... I've just remembered the huge pile of ironing hidden in the cupboard. I'll have a cup of coffee and have another think, maybe I'll come up with a good reason for not doing the ironing - it's my most disliked chore and on par with cleaning windows.
9th April 2015
We had surprise visitors today - Jenny and Ian arrived to decorate our fridge with a new magnet. Here it is in situ - it announces their red letter day - July 30th 2016. Exciting wedding-bells news with plenty of time to worry about frocks and hats. Mm... summer wedding... already I'm thinking floaty flowery dress and big shady hat... subject matter for daydreams. |
Aren't you just fed up with party politics and the various parties sniping at each other? I'm trying to tune out but there's no escape - switch off the telly, switch off the radio and they get at me through the letter box. I'm even receiving e-mails with political waffle. I have to do some errands now - back later.
Before I go, I have to tell you about an e-mail that just arrived from Carol's work colleague, Kelly-Anne. She's e-mailed to report another sighting of the Shropshire Sparrow - it was perching in a tree outside her house. I'll be contacting the RSPB immediately. (See Blog entry for 13th March for the origins of this story.) I think it's a bit of a cross-breed, more farmyard than hedgerow. Kelly-Anne says it hatched around Easter time. |
8th April 2015
It's the day to wish Buddha a happy birthday - a day of celebration and festivals in Buddhist communities around the world. Buddha's Birthday is a time for hanging lanterns and enjoying communal meals. Joyous parades of musicians, dancers, floats, and dragons are common throughout Asia. In Japan, Buddha’s birthday - Hana Matsuri, or “Flower Festival”- is celebrated every year on April 8. Those who go to temples bring offerings of fresh spring flowers. One ritual found throughout Asia and in most schools of Buddhism is that of washing the baby Buddha.
It's the day to wish Buddha a happy birthday - a day of celebration and festivals in Buddhist communities around the world. Buddha's Birthday is a time for hanging lanterns and enjoying communal meals. Joyous parades of musicians, dancers, floats, and dragons are common throughout Asia. In Japan, Buddha’s birthday - Hana Matsuri, or “Flower Festival”- is celebrated every year on April 8. Those who go to temples bring offerings of fresh spring flowers. One ritual found throughout Asia and in most schools of Buddhism is that of washing the baby Buddha.
Maybe Buddha would like to gaze on these spring flowers. It's the pot I planted up last October. (oh heck! UP UP UP. Why do we use the word 'up' unnecessarily? I can't even decide if it's a preposition or an adverb in this context so I've no right to use it anyway. So.... start again.... the pot I planted last October has come up trumps. UP again. I've decided I don't like the word UP being bandied about at will. I'll change that to.... the pot I planted last October is successful. It began flowering in February with a covering of purple Iris. They've died down and we've had several weeks of small daffodils and purple violas which are still going strong. There's a crop of bright pink tulips to come. I followed the instructions from one of the gardening programmes. I can't remember if it was an Alan Titchmarsh or Monty Don idea but it worked. You have to plant in layers: tulips deepest, next the daffs, iris topmost. Then you cover the surface with viola plants so they're blooming while the bulbs are thinking about it and keeping cosy through the winter.
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7th April 2015
Oh joy, oh bliss - another warm day - cake and coffee outside. Bern has finished work early-ish so we're going to have a go at the garden this afternoon. Our next door neighbours, Rex and Alison, have just been round for a chat. I'm so glad to see them looking well and lively. Rex has been through the mill just lately. He has lost an eye due to a cancerous tumor. On coming home from hospital he developed meningitis and was readmitted. He's home again now and about to undergo six weeks of radio therapy. A lot to contend with and much dashing about for Alison on top of coping with her job. Well done you guys for getting through the trauma of it all - just six more weeks and maybe they can relax a bit. They have high praise for the good work done by Birmingham's Q.E. Hospital. I like to hear positive comments about NHS treatments as we're quick to condemn and the good things get forgotten when we're bombarded with media hype and negativity about waiting times and quotas. I know things aren't always ideal but praise should be given when it's been earned. |
6th April 2015
Looks like we're in for a sunshiny day - I feel better this morning - and, surprise surprise, on this morning's news was Carol's Choir, a brief clip about them doing their stuff in Shrewsbury town centre. I still couldn't find her in the crowd.
What exciting events happen on April 6th? - I can only come up with the start of the tax year- boring or what? It doesn't feel like Monday - |I soon get disorientated when the usual ritual is changed. I reckon with no writers' meeting and no art class this week I'm never going to know what day it is.
Looks like we're in for a sunshiny day - I feel better this morning - and, surprise surprise, on this morning's news was Carol's Choir, a brief clip about them doing their stuff in Shrewsbury town centre. I still couldn't find her in the crowd.
What exciting events happen on April 6th? - I can only come up with the start of the tax year- boring or what? It doesn't feel like Monday - |I soon get disorientated when the usual ritual is changed. I reckon with no writers' meeting and no art class this week I'm never going to know what day it is.
We tootled off to Shrewsbury later this morning. I had a lovely time looking round the shops - we're rather starved of decent shops in Wolverhampton so Shrewsbury was a real treat, they have variety and one a bit different from the usual high street stuff. Not that I needed to buy anything but sometimes a whimsical purchase brings pleasure. I bought a quite unnecessary little box from Paperchase, designed for carrying sandwiches. The exciting bit is I later found there were three more boxes inside - the snack-box version of the Russian Doll scenario. I only bought it because it's pretty. All four have pretty lids. Now all I need is to go on a picnic.
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After that we went on to Carol and Gary's place where we sat in the garden and enjoyed the warm sunshine while eating our lunch. That was following a little "can't find the car" adventure in Shrewsbury's multi-storey car park. As my legs are so rubbish these days Bern's in the habit of dropping me off outside the shops and then he goes off to park the car. Today, when we went back to the car park in a place we didn't know very well we had one of our infamous senior moment. We walked to the level where Bern thought the car was (but it wasn't). He says "wait here" and gallops off to investigate other levels. He is gone for ages so I start wandering in the direction that he disappeared. So there we are,, wandering round car park levels but not quite catching up with each other. I find these places quite spooky, low ceilings make it half-light, silent, just mysterious anonymous people in cars creeping past, Just as I was deciding I might get strangled in here Bern arrived in the car. Phew! Note to self: next time you're stranded in a bleak, badly lit concrete labyrinth called a car park, leave your imagination at home.
5th April 2015
I felt yukky today so I didn't look out for Easter Bunny nor did I feel tempted to eat chocolate. I had a long nap on the sofa this afternoon and revived in time to watch Poldark. Carol's choir, "Got to Sing" performed in Shrewsbury on Saturday. She never mentions it until after the event and lurks at the back when the cameras are out so I can't find her on the pictures. I suspect she likes the singing but is not exactly stage struck. |
4th April 2015
I've untangled the mystery of phone pictures with help from Maggie - her blanket is now displayed on the Crafty Page. [ Link to Crafty Page ] We ummed and arred this morning deciding which supermarket to grace with our presence - so glad we chose Sainsbury's because who should we find tripping round the aisle but Doreen and Brian. I took a crafty photo of them as we departed but true to form something went wrong and another picture drifted off into the big beyond. I reckon my technological cock-ups get lost in one of those black holes that astrophysicists talk about. Nevertheless, it was lovely seeing them and exchange news, or should I say discuss our ailments, a topic which dominates conversations at our age. We were yakking for so long that we turned into one of those irritating huddles of trolley-touting tongue-waggers that annoy everyone because they can't get to the carrots. I can confirm that carrots parsnips and other root veg are now accessible, we've all gone home. |
Hang in there girls - only one more sleep before we can swoon over Mr Poldark on Sunday.
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More poorliness to report: my sister Wendy rang last night to say her hubby Phil is in hospital following a stroke. Sending you our best wishes Phil and Wendy. Prognosis is good and he may be home again some time next week if all goes well. These things are scary when they happen but already they have him on blood thinner and statins.
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3rd April 2015
Good Friday - time for hot-cross buns. I reckon Easter Bunny must be just round the corner. Maggie sent me a picture (via our phones) of the lovely blanket she's just made using crochet squares. I managed to view it on my phone (after much button pressing to unravel the mystery of mobile phones). Then I tried to download the pic to my computer so I could show it to you and somewhere between phone and computer the picture has floated off into the ether. Sorry Maggie - your picture is in orbit round the planets and I can't display it here.
Mandie at the Codsall Wool Shop told me about the Stylecraft project that kicks off on 7th April. It's a "crochet along with us" type thing. Here's a link to the website in case you've an inclination to join in. http://www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk/Crochet.htm |
If politics is your thing, I've lifted this summary of last night's big debate from the BBC Home Page....
The UK's party leaders have clashed in the first TV election debate on a range of issues including the NHS, immigration and the deficit. It is the only time David Cameron and Ed Miliband will appear together on TV ahead of 7 May's polling day. The Conservative and Labour leaders, as well as the leaders of the Lib Dems, UKIP, the Green Party, the SNP and Plaid Cymru, also debated zero-hours contracts, spending cuts and education in the ITV-hosted contest. Seven million viewers watched the debate, according to ITV, which was a 31% share of the audience. There was a peak audience of 7.4 million, or 33% of the audience. Snap polls taken after the debate gave a mixed verdict. A YouGov poll of 1,100 people gave a clear victory to the SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, with 28%, followed by UKIP leader Nigel Farage on 20%, Mr Cameron on 18%, Mr Miliband on 15%, Mr Clegg on 10%, Green Party leader Natalie Bennett on 5% and Plaid Cymru's Leanne Wood on 4%. 'Pick and mix'But a ComRes poll for ITV made it a dead heat between Mr Cameron, Mr Miliband, Mr Farage and Ms Sturgeon, although Mr Cameron came out on top on the question of who was most capable of leading the country. Mr Miliband was judged best performer in an ICM poll for the Guardian, taking 25% of support, just ahead of David Cameron on 24%. At this stage it looks like the analysts have come up with differing results - no matter how much speculating and chin-wagging we do, other than turning up to put our crosses on the paper, we may just as well sit back and see what happens on the day. |
I don't think I'll be making a water lily blanket but the knitting and crochet blogs listed on the Stylecraft website are interesting. If you click on 'Information' at the top of the page and then click on 'Links' there are some good blogs to look at if you're feeling creative and seek inspiration.
2nd April 2015
Further to the fun of yesterday's April Fool pranks, here's a couple played by large establishments: A shoe-maker based in New York joined in the fun this April Fools' Day by saying they had created shoes with a docking port for your phone, allowing you to take selfies with your feet! Battersea Cats and Dogs Home said they have rescued a cat that might be a bit more at home in the African Savannah... They claimed to have rescued a lion, which they called April (spot the clue there), that they found wandering around in London Rene discovered this one: Ever struggled to reach the top shelf in your local shop? Tesco supermarkets said they are building trampolines in their shops, to help people to reach items on the top shelf. A supermarket spokesperson said: "Introducing bouncy aisles is both a practical and fun solution to help our customers reach products on the top shelves, as well as speed up their shopping trip." |
I hope the weather picks up for the holiday weekend - everyone's in the need of some fresh air and sunshine - and we could do with getting going in the garden. Already I'm bored with the constant electioneering (maybe I should use that strange word, hustings) - I'll not be dissuaded from my usual direction so I'll skip all the debates and the waffle that leaps through the letterbox. I've just consulted the Time and Date website (love this one) and if you are doing washing this morning it's no good pegging it outside until mid-day. Put your town in the appropriate box to see what time you can peg out your washing. http://www.timeanddate.com/weather/uk/wolverhampton
I've had a jolly little e-mail from somewhere far-flung to tell me that a person with the same name as me has died and the message comes from the deceased's bank. Will I reply giving my bank details so I can receive my inheritance. These fraudsters never give up do they? I've had the scissors to my fringe to save me the bother of going to the hairdresser. I resent the cost of having one's hair done - I can't manage the backward seats (spine and neck issues) so I was washing my hair in the shower prior to going to the hairdresser, but they still charged he same price as if they'd washed and blow dried it, when all they had to do was damp it and cut the ends which took about 10 minutes. Nah - can't do with being ripped off by far-flung foreign banks nor local hairdressers. Next time you see me and think "rubbish hair do" you'll know it's because I've hacked it myself.
I've had a jolly little e-mail from somewhere far-flung to tell me that a person with the same name as me has died and the message comes from the deceased's bank. Will I reply giving my bank details so I can receive my inheritance. These fraudsters never give up do they? I've had the scissors to my fringe to save me the bother of going to the hairdresser. I resent the cost of having one's hair done - I can't manage the backward seats (spine and neck issues) so I was washing my hair in the shower prior to going to the hairdresser, but they still charged he same price as if they'd washed and blow dried it, when all they had to do was damp it and cut the ends which took about 10 minutes. Nah - can't do with being ripped off by far-flung foreign banks nor local hairdressers. Next time you see me and think "rubbish hair do" you'll know it's because I've hacked it myself.
1st April 2015
Here we are in April - the month the cuckoo arrives. I haven't heard a cuckoo in these parts for years - a sad thought, we used to love listening for the first cuckoo. Ooh, I've just seen Jose's car pull up outside - must go to let her in. One long chat later...... She had just been to the dentist round the corner so popped in here too. We did all the goss and Jose says she's coming back to art class after the Easter break. I've checked on the peregrines - they're diligently keeping those eggs warm. Denise reckons there are four this year. |
I've read that the Tech websites are in the lead with April Fools jokes - e.g. (from BBC home page) The Force - the mysterious energy field used by the Jedi in Star Wars - has been discovered by researchers at the Cern laboratory.The European research centre announced its spoof discovery with pictures showing its scientists using The Force in everyday life.
It was one of many April Fools jokes seen on websites around the world. Others included a selfie shoe, driverless pizza delivery and thought-powered web search.
It was one of many April Fools jokes seen on websites around the world. Others included a selfie shoe, driverless pizza delivery and thought-powered web search.
31st March 2015
March is living up to the old adage this year and "going out like a lion." I've just braved the wintry blast to rescue a few blown about items in the garden. Last writers' meeting of the term today - this week's homework is "Free Choice" - I've dug out a piece from years ago that hopefully no one will remember - obviously I'll be cheating but I'd rather call it "winging it".
Happy birthday to my friend Elaine (Gill) - I visited yesterday and we had a lovely catch-up and arranged a supper evening for next month.
March is living up to the old adage this year and "going out like a lion." I've just braved the wintry blast to rescue a few blown about items in the garden. Last writers' meeting of the term today - this week's homework is "Free Choice" - I've dug out a piece from years ago that hopefully no one will remember - obviously I'll be cheating but I'd rather call it "winging it".
Happy birthday to my friend Elaine (Gill) - I visited yesterday and we had a lovely catch-up and arranged a supper evening for next month.
30th March 2015
Monday again - moments ago I popped into Facebook to see what's happening and was greeted with this smiley face - good morning Carol. It'll make her laugh (or cringe) when she looks in at lunch time. I can see Jay and Lesley in the background - I wonder where they were. The Scottish chap, Paul, won Painting Challenge then - I thought the Army sergeant was in with a chance but Paul came up trumps on the day. I thought his painting of Dartmouth was wonderful - good composition, exceptional use of colour and executed with boldness resulting in a lively picture. AND, the really exciting bit, he gets to have two of his works hung in the Tate Gallery. I've unearthed a strange fact that happened on today's date. 30th March 1867 America bought Alaska from Russia for $7.2m - which equates to 2 cents per acre. I wonder why they wanted it - and at 2 cents an acre it has to be an absolute bargain when one considers the cost of land today even if it is covered in snow and deserted. |
28th & 29th March 2015
We're having a quiet weekend - our Shrewsbury people are in Llandudno for a concert and the Pattingham gang are visiting Lesley's Mum and Dad as it's their Diamond Wedding anniversary. Congratulations Jack and Audrey - we have no hesitation in awarding you a long service medal. |
It's THAT weekend already - time-tampering weekend. I wonder why we still do it. I reckon we'll all be yawning our heads off before Poldark has finished tonight due to the lost hour - never mind, we'll get it back again in October. Here's an interesting little video presented by Stephen Fry about the why and wherefore of altering the clocks. http://www.bbc.co.uk/guides/z9rhn39?intc_&intc_location=news&intc_campaign=changingclocks&intc_linkname=iwonder_factual_guide
I've just been reading about the Hadron Collider thing - it's over my head a bit, no it's over my head a lot - but I'm trying to understand what it's for. I quote from the BBC Home Page at BBC.co.uk..... Every time fundamental research hits the headlines you can be sure that someone - maybe lots of people - will question whether it's worth it. And so it is with the restart of this mother of all physics experiments, ready after its two-year upgrade to explore uncharted corners of the sub-atomic realm. This vast machine ranks as one of the world's biggest experiments, with incredibly sophisticated machinery filling a 27km circular tunnel, and the bill so far has come to a little under £4 billion. Back in 2008, when the vast device was first brought to life, one senior British scientist grumbled to me that "the particle physicists seem to get all the money they want". It's difficult to envisage the scale of the exercise but I hope they discover something of benefit to mankind and the planet when they've finished banging particles together in that huge tunnel.
I've just been reading about the Hadron Collider thing - it's over my head a bit, no it's over my head a lot - but I'm trying to understand what it's for. I quote from the BBC Home Page at BBC.co.uk..... Every time fundamental research hits the headlines you can be sure that someone - maybe lots of people - will question whether it's worth it. And so it is with the restart of this mother of all physics experiments, ready after its two-year upgrade to explore uncharted corners of the sub-atomic realm. This vast machine ranks as one of the world's biggest experiments, with incredibly sophisticated machinery filling a 27km circular tunnel, and the bill so far has come to a little under £4 billion. Back in 2008, when the vast device was first brought to life, one senior British scientist grumbled to me that "the particle physicists seem to get all the money they want". It's difficult to envisage the scale of the exercise but I hope they discover something of benefit to mankind and the planet when they've finished banging particles together in that huge tunnel.
27th March 2015
Hallelujah! The new washing machine arrived first thing this morning - three loads pegged and blowing. Denise has left a message to say that the peregrines (Nottingham University) have laid four eggs and that the webcam is up and running. Thanks for that Denise. I presume it's the same pair of birds that we watched last year (thanks to Doreen who found it for us in the first place). I'll rummage around and find a link to it - here we go... http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Hallelujah! The new washing machine arrived first thing this morning - three loads pegged and blowing. Denise has left a message to say that the peregrines (Nottingham University) have laid four eggs and that the webcam is up and running. Thanks for that Denise. I presume it's the same pair of birds that we watched last year (thanks to Doreen who found it for us in the first place). I'll rummage around and find a link to it - here we go... http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falchttp://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ons/
Bern's not a happy bunny: big pothole = two new tyres. A financial blow in the same week as replacement washing machine and a bill for the drains. This family knows there'll be a great display of hand-wringing rather than hand-rubbing with tales of the vicious crater he encountered, the frailty of washing machines once they're 14 years old and the unsavoury happenings with sunken sewage pipes.
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26th March 2015
Bright and breezy and very brrrrrr. I've been to art class this morning but didn't settle to doing anything much. Part of the session was given over to a talk by Keith about stained glass - he's one of our members. He gave a slide show and an interesting talk which revealed his astonishingly vast knowledge on the subject. Hilary dished out cake and chocolates as it was her birthday yesterday so that helped the morning along in a very pleasant way. We've broken up now until after Easter. March 26th 1885 saw a jolly little "first". The first UK cremation took place at a new crematorium in Woking, Surrey. The person to experience the procedure was a Mrs Pickersgill. Experience is hardly the right word but I couldn't find a more suitable one. |
25th March 2015
We've had a bit of a problem over the last few days - the sort of dilemma that one doesn't mention in polite society. And then I thought, why not? It's good to share one's experiences. It's been a bit of a recurring nightmare in recent years but Bern's usually managed to sort it out. This time it wouldn't budge no matter how we tried. We bought a special gismo designed for the job - rubbish! We bought bottles of stuff guaranteed to blast you off the planet - rubbish! So after several days and nights of poking, pouring, flushing and cussing, the upstairs loo remained well and truly blocked. Nothing nasty in sight I hasten to add, but definitely out of action. Today I decided, tether - end of. So I consulted the Internet. I found a Wolverhampton company, gave them a ring, and two chaps were on the doorstep within 20 minutes. I'm well impressed with their quick response. Big van: generator: pipes tubes and hoses and "where's the manhole cover?" Then much tutting, nodding, mutter-mutter. "Yes, there's a big problem." Anyway, just as the generator was roaring and water was jetting into a smelly cavernous place revealed by the removal of the manhole cover the post lady arrived. I was upstairs busily pouring bowls of water down the loo as the chaps had asked me to do. I heard squeals of horror - rushed down to see what the commotion was all about to find a damp post lady leaping into the hallway. The chaps had gone to attend to the generator leaving a jet-blasting pipe down the said smelly place and as the pipe whipped itself around like a demented python spraying garden, front door, and windows, the post lady stepped through the gate and acquired a share of what was on offer. I'm hoping it was just clean water that was flying through the air - I can't contemplate the alternative. I think we owe her a big tip at Christmas - not only does she lug mountains of junk mail to our portal but gets covered in something questionable whilst doing so.
I fear there may be a sequel to this little drama. Apparently, our sewage pipes are not in a good state. There's a little "rise" instead of a "fall" in the way they've been installed. The "rise" should be part of the "fall" and it needs "seeing to". We now await a quote for further excavation, digging up, ruining the garden, and hopefully resolving the periodically blocked loo. Oh the joys... isn't it amazing how one thing leads to another?
It's Lady Day today - a quarter day. Do people still refer to quarter days? Maybe the old farmers do. I've had a quick look at Wicki-whatsit and it says.... The quarter days were the four dates in each year on which servants were hired, school terms started, and rents were due. They fell on religious festivals roughly three months apart and close to the two solstices and the two equinoxes. The significance of quarter days is now limited, although leasehold payments and rents for land and premises in England are often still due on the old English quarter days. The quarter days have been observed at least since the Middle Ages and they ensured that debts and unresolved lawsuits were not allowed to linger on. Accounts had to be settled, a reckoning had to be made and publicly recorded on the quarter days. The other quarter days are Midsummer 24th June, Michaelmas 29th September, and Christmas 25th December.
Until 1752, 25th of March was New Year’s Day in England. In 1752, the British government adopted the Gregorian calendar and also agreed that 1st January was the first day of the year. Scotland had taken up this arrangement in 1600 but had different quarter days from England - Candlemas (2 February), Whitsunday (15 May), Lammas (1 August) and Martinmas (11 November).
Considering the lack of communication, remote rural communities, etc. back in those days, I wonder how long it was before dates and timing of things were synchronized throughout the land. It must have led to oodles of confusion - confuses me just thinking about it.
We've had a bit of a problem over the last few days - the sort of dilemma that one doesn't mention in polite society. And then I thought, why not? It's good to share one's experiences. It's been a bit of a recurring nightmare in recent years but Bern's usually managed to sort it out. This time it wouldn't budge no matter how we tried. We bought a special gismo designed for the job - rubbish! We bought bottles of stuff guaranteed to blast you off the planet - rubbish! So after several days and nights of poking, pouring, flushing and cussing, the upstairs loo remained well and truly blocked. Nothing nasty in sight I hasten to add, but definitely out of action. Today I decided, tether - end of. So I consulted the Internet. I found a Wolverhampton company, gave them a ring, and two chaps were on the doorstep within 20 minutes. I'm well impressed with their quick response. Big van: generator: pipes tubes and hoses and "where's the manhole cover?" Then much tutting, nodding, mutter-mutter. "Yes, there's a big problem." Anyway, just as the generator was roaring and water was jetting into a smelly cavernous place revealed by the removal of the manhole cover the post lady arrived. I was upstairs busily pouring bowls of water down the loo as the chaps had asked me to do. I heard squeals of horror - rushed down to see what the commotion was all about to find a damp post lady leaping into the hallway. The chaps had gone to attend to the generator leaving a jet-blasting pipe down the said smelly place and as the pipe whipped itself around like a demented python spraying garden, front door, and windows, the post lady stepped through the gate and acquired a share of what was on offer. I'm hoping it was just clean water that was flying through the air - I can't contemplate the alternative. I think we owe her a big tip at Christmas - not only does she lug mountains of junk mail to our portal but gets covered in something questionable whilst doing so.
I fear there may be a sequel to this little drama. Apparently, our sewage pipes are not in a good state. There's a little "rise" instead of a "fall" in the way they've been installed. The "rise" should be part of the "fall" and it needs "seeing to". We now await a quote for further excavation, digging up, ruining the garden, and hopefully resolving the periodically blocked loo. Oh the joys... isn't it amazing how one thing leads to another?
It's Lady Day today - a quarter day. Do people still refer to quarter days? Maybe the old farmers do. I've had a quick look at Wicki-whatsit and it says.... The quarter days were the four dates in each year on which servants were hired, school terms started, and rents were due. They fell on religious festivals roughly three months apart and close to the two solstices and the two equinoxes. The significance of quarter days is now limited, although leasehold payments and rents for land and premises in England are often still due on the old English quarter days. The quarter days have been observed at least since the Middle Ages and they ensured that debts and unresolved lawsuits were not allowed to linger on. Accounts had to be settled, a reckoning had to be made and publicly recorded on the quarter days. The other quarter days are Midsummer 24th June, Michaelmas 29th September, and Christmas 25th December.
Until 1752, 25th of March was New Year’s Day in England. In 1752, the British government adopted the Gregorian calendar and also agreed that 1st January was the first day of the year. Scotland had taken up this arrangement in 1600 but had different quarter days from England - Candlemas (2 February), Whitsunday (15 May), Lammas (1 August) and Martinmas (11 November).
Considering the lack of communication, remote rural communities, etc. back in those days, I wonder how long it was before dates and timing of things were synchronized throughout the land. It must have led to oodles of confusion - confuses me just thinking about it.
24th March 2015
Just the writers' meeting on today's agenda and a quick visit to the Co-op for some salad greens. "Oh wow!" I hear you say, and I have to agree, the excitement is stultifying. The meeting was good with a diverse range of subjects ranted about. Memorable ones were Rosemary's on the mis-use of the poor old apostrophe. Cora's was about dog owners not clearing up after their dog had performed, and the ones who did jauntily swinging their plastic bags as they stroll past her giving her cause to turn green. I empathise with both these topics. I complained about a trivial matter that doesn't have a detrimental effect on society - just something that gets up my nose - I've posted it on the writing page.
Just the writers' meeting on today's agenda and a quick visit to the Co-op for some salad greens. "Oh wow!" I hear you say, and I have to agree, the excitement is stultifying. The meeting was good with a diverse range of subjects ranted about. Memorable ones were Rosemary's on the mis-use of the poor old apostrophe. Cora's was about dog owners not clearing up after their dog had performed, and the ones who did jauntily swinging their plastic bags as they stroll past her giving her cause to turn green. I empathise with both these topics. I complained about a trivial matter that doesn't have a detrimental effect on society - just something that gets up my nose - I've posted it on the writing page.
23rd March 2015
I was just about to begin my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting when I realised I hadn't popped in here for a chat. What am I thinking of? Too much daydreaming this morning I fear. Carol rang earlier to tell me about her bizarre dream of last night. She was in the kitchen at No 10 Downing Street, cooking spaghetti bolognese for the prime minister's children. Mr Cameron was sitting at the kitchen table working on laptop. Makes a change from knitted garden birds I suppose. (7th & 13th March).
I was just about to begin my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting when I realised I hadn't popped in here for a chat. What am I thinking of? Too much daydreaming this morning I fear. Carol rang earlier to tell me about her bizarre dream of last night. She was in the kitchen at No 10 Downing Street, cooking spaghetti bolognese for the prime minister's children. Mr Cameron was sitting at the kitchen table working on laptop. Makes a change from knitted garden birds I suppose. (7th & 13th March).
It's World Meteorological Day today - if you worry about climate change and the future of our planet here's a link to the WMO http://www.wmo.int/worldmetday/content/about
Homework done: we have to write a rant. I've pondered this all week and it suddenly came to me on Friday when I was making a cake. Maybe I'll put it on the writing page when it's had an airing tomorrow. I've been wondering if they'll let us watch the little Peregrines again - do you remember last spring when we saw the Nottingham University webcam pictures - I'll look into it to see if and when it will be up and running. I don't know if the Peregrines have laid their eggs yet. |
I didn't bother nipping over to Leicester to join the four-hour wait to look at a coffin. I've seen enough coffins in recent years of friends and family without going to look at one of someone I've never met. I don't quite "get it" - the need to gawp at a lead-lined box containing an ancient King's bones. I've quite got the image in my mind from TV and the Internet. RIP King Richard and I'm sorry about the mawkish gawpers. And while I'm on the subject, I think he'd have been happier buried in York. After all, he was a Monarch of the House of York and I'm sure he'd like to get far away from that flipping council car park where they found him.
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21st - 22nd March 2015
Saturday: what a lovely day. We went over to Ashwood garden centre and found the rest of the world had gone there too. Massive queue in the cafe so we gave that a miss despite the display of "cake to die for". I expect the crowd had turned out to see the hellebores - Ashwood holds the national collection. The hellebores were in full bloom, looking magnificent in the sunshine, including some unusual ones. Some collections (4 plants) were selling at over £100, so I guess they are pretty rare, beautiful blooms though. While we're still in Saturday - Happy wedding anniversary to Carol and Gary. |
Sunday: The Six Nations Rugby thing is sorted now - well done Ireland. Poor old Richard III is still unsettled. I have to say to him RIP - it seems the poor old sod will never be at rest. Having died in 1485, dug up again in 2012, carted off to have his bits and pieces poked about and tested, today they're parading him round Leicestershire, he's been on the go rather a long time. He won't get tucked up for his eternal sleep until Thursday. I can't make up my mind what I really think of these goings on.
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I'm sorry I've had to take down the messaging facility on the Home Page: so many spammers were dumping junk on there and from there getting into my e-mail inbox to drive me crazy, it took from breakfast time to coffee time to clear the rubbish.
20th March 2015
Heavenly happenings have totally eclipsed other news items telly-wise this morning. As I write this the light is fading a little and there's a quietness in the air with a lull before the storm sort of feeling, which shows we still respond to earth rhythms and the planets just as they did long ago. Enjoy the Eclipse, the Vernal Equinox, and I send greetings at Ostara.... Hang on, I'm just going outside to have a proper look and grab a first-hand experience. Back again. Daylight levels have returned to normal so I guess it's all over. I had all this stuff hanging off my face and the sun was still too much of a glare to actually see anything. I had two pairs of sunglasses over my specs thinking that would do the trick - it takes a lot of skill to balance that lot on your face - and I didn't see a thing. After all the media hype I found it a tad underwhelming when viewed from our garden through my quickly contrived triple glazing, I wish I'd flown off to the Faroe Islands for a better view. The phone rang at 7.30 this morning - guess who. Yes, it was Carol - you might have worked out by now that she's an early riser and has been known to be drinking tea in the garden at an ungodly hour on summer mornings. This morning's message was, "Unlock the door I'm outside." I bumbled downstairs in my pink spotted PJs and sure enough, there she was on the back doorstep with heels, face on, all ready for work. It turned out she and Karen (her sister in law who lives in Bilbrook) had been to Birmingham last night to see Spandau Ballet (very seventies - reveals a certain age bracket doesn't it?) and Carol had slept at Karen's; so I had a welcome visitor at an early hour. |
19th March 2015
Had a message from Rene this morning - she's sent s picture of a lovely cushion cover she's knitted - I've put it on the Craftiness page. She tells me her purpose for knitting is to keep awake while watching telly. I know the feeling Rene - and "worth staying awake to watch it" programmes are scarce these days. We're stuck with Budget talk at the moment - I reckon the budget is the budget, nothing we can do about it and I definitely don't want to listen politicians and the complaining public banging on about it for hours. Back later - art class now.
Had a message from Rene this morning - she's sent s picture of a lovely cushion cover she's knitted - I've put it on the Craftiness page. She tells me her purpose for knitting is to keep awake while watching telly. I know the feeling Rene - and "worth staying awake to watch it" programmes are scarce these days. We're stuck with Budget talk at the moment - I reckon the budget is the budget, nothing we can do about it and I definitely don't want to listen politicians and the complaining public banging on about it for hours. Back later - art class now.
Home again. Roland has cast a critical eye over the painting I've been boring you with for weeks. His comment, "it's decorative, too much contrast between the two background colours." He's quite right of course, because it chops it in half. I guess that means gallery curators won't be pestering me to loan it for an exhibition. I'm afraid my photography skills are a tad iffy too - sort of skew-whiff.
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18th March 2015
I've finally finished the physalis picture (I think). Roland hasn't passed judgement on my readjustments yet so "finished" isn't my final word on the matter. I've removed two lemons - can't think why I put them there in the first place, maybe I thought something yellow would liven it up. Then when I'd painted out the mess left by the lemons the background ended up looking rather dark - hence my expectation of adverse comments.
I've finally finished the physalis picture (I think). Roland hasn't passed judgement on my readjustments yet so "finished" isn't my final word on the matter. I've removed two lemons - can't think why I put them there in the first place, maybe I thought something yellow would liven it up. Then when I'd painted out the mess left by the lemons the background ended up looking rather dark - hence my expectation of adverse comments.
Well done David Pearce - a15 year old from Walsall who has won a competition to design the "tails" side of the new £1 coin. I think i'ts a brilliant achievement. The new coin is to be 12-sided, the same shape as the old threepence piece which went out of use in 1971. They've given the Queen's image on the other side a makeover reflecting her advancing years.
Budget Day: 1p off a pint of beer - it ain't going to affect me then. |
17th March 2015
St Patrick's Day - Begorra! I must be an eejit as I've no idea what begorra means - shiver me shamrocks and all things Irish.
St Patrick's Day - Begorra! I must be an eejit as I've no idea what begorra means - shiver me shamrocks and all things Irish.
My cold is in full swing (sneezey, drippy, headachey) I'm undecided yet whether to go to the writers' meeting - passing on germs is not a good idea and I feel a bit under par.
Loads going on with the planets this week - we've the partial eclipse to look forward to on Friday and I hear on the news that the aurora borealis is visible further south than usual, and we have a 'super moon' in the offing. All good stuff to have us looking up (literally). |
16th March 2015
I'm saddened to report the death of our washing machine. Or maybe I'm just maddened so I'll say B*****. Now we have a machine full of wet and soggy half-washed clothes. It was like contending with rocket science to get the flipping door open. Oh well... another of life's expensive little dramas. If you can't find me during the next few days I'll be down at the river bashing the bedclothes with a few rocks or doing something with a tub and a mangle. Maybe we'll invest in this little wooden number next time - what can go wrong that can't be fixed with a few nails and hammer? Writers' group tomorrow - no homework to worry about as Jane Seaborne will be with us to do a workshop. I'm sneezey and have a sore throat today - Bern's bugs have caught up with me. I'll have to wait and see what tomorrow brings. |
14th / 15th March 2015
Luckily we shopped on Friday as Bern's flu-like symptoms set in with a vengeance on Saturday and we stayed holed up in the warm. We also had to cancel our Mothers' Day Sunday lunch with the family - he's coughing and spluttering big time. Jay and Lesley have it too and have had to postpone their weekend in Greywell with Lesley's parents - Jack and Audrey will be so disappointed. Germs rule at the moment. Never mind, we have Poldark to look forward to tonight.
Jay and Lesley, and Carol popped in this afternoon - so we had a happy little gathering and I received loads of lovely flowers - many thanks.
Luckily we shopped on Friday as Bern's flu-like symptoms set in with a vengeance on Saturday and we stayed holed up in the warm. We also had to cancel our Mothers' Day Sunday lunch with the family - he's coughing and spluttering big time. Jay and Lesley have it too and have had to postpone their weekend in Greywell with Lesley's parents - Jack and Audrey will be so disappointed. Germs rule at the moment. Never mind, we have Poldark to look forward to tonight.
Jay and Lesley, and Carol popped in this afternoon - so we had a happy little gathering and I received loads of lovely flowers - many thanks.
Friday 13th must be working its magic - I've not been able to access this site all morning. Bern's feeling poorly with a terrible cough and cold and to top it all, it's raining. On the other hand we had Carol on the phone at 7.00 a.m. squealing with laughter. (some time later...) Sorry - having trouble with the computer/internet today but back again, where were we? Oh yes, Carol's early morning call. She'd had a circular arrive yesterday purportedly from the RSPB worded as follows:
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR RESIDENTS IN THE COPTHORNE AREA OF SHREWSBURY
SHROPSHIRE SPARROW
( Scientific Name: Passeridae Nittus )
A rare bird which is thought to have been extinct for over two hundred years has allegedly been seen in your area by a local bird watcher. The Society is keen to ascertain the existence of this rare bird. Please let us know if you think you have seen it in your garden or surrounding area.
DESCRIPTION
The bird is finch-like and was commonly called Shropshire Sparrow. Centuries ago it was popular due to it's colourful plumage. Main body grey/blue with touches of red in the wing and tail areas. It has a yellow beak and bright button-like eyes. The Society would appreciate any information regarding sightings.
PLEASE CONTACT TEL NO 01767 680551
She was pretty excited a week or so ago when woodpeckers arrived in their garden, now she's wondering if what she saw was the Shropshire Sparrow. Thing is, I think I saw the Shropshire Sparrow perched on our bookshelf alongside my poetry books. I must have startled him because he flew away and landed in Carol's tree this morning - hence the early morning call and laughter. It's a bit of a tall tale but I rather think it has something to do with her dream about the birds in the garden being knitted. Looks like dreams do come true.
13th March 2015
12th March 2015
I'm scramblng round chucking stuff in my art bag - last minute effort as always. Two of us are attempting a self-portrait this morning (don't get your hopes up). I've had to remember to pack the bathroom mirror - we'll be using acrylics - I think I'm venturing on an impossible task. Back later with the verdict.
I'm scramblng round chucking stuff in my art bag - last minute effort as always. Two of us are attempting a self-portrait this morning (don't get your hopes up). I've had to remember to pack the bathroom mirror - we'll be using acrylics - I think I'm venturing on an impossible task. Back later with the verdict.
Back home now: and the verdict: I've painted a ghoul. But, Roland said bring it back next week for further work. It's the Sewing Bee final tonight - BBC2 - three finalists will battle it out. I enjoyed last Sunday's first episode of the new serialisation of "Poldark" - Aidan Turner is a great Ross Poldark.
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I didn't watch the original TV versions of "Poldark (screened in the 1970s) nor have I read the books. Winston Graham wrote 4 Poldark novels, the first two of which have been reissued in February this year. I expect they're a good read if you're up for a bit of swashbuckling and galloping round Cornwall, plus the romance of course. http://www.winstongraham.org/
Carol has left us a message: she says, "Oh dear, another taupe lunch, dahl and brown rice." I think this is all in the interest of calorie control but it's about as beige as you can get. I suggest maybe a tomato with it, just for colour.
Carol has left us a message: she says, "Oh dear, another taupe lunch, dahl and brown rice." I think this is all in the interest of calorie control but it's about as beige as you can get. I suggest maybe a tomato with it, just for colour.
11th March 2015
I've just had to empty my capacious (Kipling) bag to answer my phone which was buried in the dark depths - now I'm grousing and growling as it was a pointless exercise - how do these flipping PPI claims people acquire your mobile number? There's a section of society hell bent on winding me up. I get a daily bombardment of marketing messages on this blog site and the Codsall Writers' one - someone flogging trainers. Have they nothing better to do? OK folks - rant over. (Nearly). In unison with the phone call a load of of junk mail tumbled through the letterbox landing me with the task of removing addresses and dumping it in the recycling. It's the only moment of satisfaction when the world hurls pointless paper at you - is dumping it. I like to think they've wasted their time and money, not to mention the trees, in producing it and I don't give it a second glance. When I'm feeling particularly malevolent, if they've included a reply envelope I rip their letter into little pieces and post it back to them. |
Carol has just sent a text to say she's eating a peanut butter and banana sandwich - UGH - I'm not envious. It's on a par with her usual humus. Much too beige-y and we don't do beige do we?
10th March 2015
Great! Another of "those" days - spring sunshine, very spirit-lifting. Hope everyone has chance to enjoy moments in the sun. I've just grabbed a few while pegging the washing. The crocuses have been lovely during recent weeks, they're nearly over now but the daffs are poised ready to blast their trumpets. I see the council's mower men have started grass-cutting - I guess it's time to ferret in the shed to see if your mower still works. It's a bit like getting the Christmas tree lights out - you never know if they're fit for another season. It's writers' group today so time's short this morning - see you later.
Back home now - a good meeting but the usual frustrations with the parking facilities. Several of us had to hover around for ages before grabbing a space. As you might guess - they have a little man who pounces if you dare park in the wrong place or squeeze onto the grass or go within spitting distance of a disabled space. Not that I would but sometimes it's tempting when you have to abandon the meeting just because you can't park. We're having a mass write-in to lodge a complaint. Not much point in using tax payers money to provide library facilities one can't access them.
Great! Another of "those" days - spring sunshine, very spirit-lifting. Hope everyone has chance to enjoy moments in the sun. I've just grabbed a few while pegging the washing. The crocuses have been lovely during recent weeks, they're nearly over now but the daffs are poised ready to blast their trumpets. I see the council's mower men have started grass-cutting - I guess it's time to ferret in the shed to see if your mower still works. It's a bit like getting the Christmas tree lights out - you never know if they're fit for another season. It's writers' group today so time's short this morning - see you later.
Back home now - a good meeting but the usual frustrations with the parking facilities. Several of us had to hover around for ages before grabbing a space. As you might guess - they have a little man who pounces if you dare park in the wrong place or squeeze onto the grass or go within spitting distance of a disabled space. Not that I would but sometimes it's tempting when you have to abandon the meeting just because you can't park. We're having a mass write-in to lodge a complaint. Not much point in using tax payers money to provide library facilities one can't access them.
9th March 2015
After a lively weekend Monday feels mundane with everyone having scuttled off to work. I'm holed up in my den with laptop and Radio 4. The canvas is calling as it still requires attention. I've painted things out (two lemons) and now can't decide how to fill the space. I've decided I'm rubbish at doing a still life. I also need to do something about homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. I want to hunt down some Rudbeckia plants for the garden. I like late flowering things as they help to stretch summer. I keep thinking about Carol's dream - knitted birds - had me in stitches! |
8th March 2015
Happy Birthday Lesley - we've had a week of birthdays - we can all breathe easy for a bit now. Jay and Les popped in this afternoon as I'd left my coat at their place last night. They saw the new chair we've bought for Bern and has been suitably labelled "Pa's Chair". It reminds me of the story programme "Jackanory" as it's so roomy and comfortable someone should be sitting in it reading a big fat book. It's also something of a joke that when we buy anything new either Carol or Jay "put their name on it" so they can claim it when we pop off. Anyway - here's the said chair destined to become a legend and fought over perching place - I've already had several naps in it. Hope Pa gets chance to sit in it. |
7th March 2015
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Bern - scary number though, he's just passed the halfway number between 70 and 80 i.e. relating to a song about trombones. How's this for a geriatric senior moment? We were both so concerned with getting up before the window cleaner arrived that we both forgot all about the birthday. Window cleaner came, we had our toast and marmalade, then the postman delivered some cards. Only then did I remember and reminded Bern about it by wishing him Happy Birthday.
What lovely weather today - we spent a couple of hours in the garden - our first attempt to tidy things up this year. Then it was time to get ready for the birthday bash - it was at Jay and Lesley's in Pattingham. They'd spent all afternoon cooking Indian - they're well practised and did a good job. Two different curries, and all the side dishes. Les had made chocolate brownies and Carol produced her famous trifle. It was great with all the family there. They'd lit the wood burner in the sitting room and it all looked cosy and warm but for some strange reason we all gravitated to the kitchen and stayed there all evening. Carol told us that she was excited as woodpeckers had started visiting their bird table. However, last night she dreamed that she was looking out at the birds as she always does but on close inspection found that they were knitted. I found this quite funny - isn't it strange how dreams can be so surreal.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Bern - scary number though, he's just passed the halfway number between 70 and 80 i.e. relating to a song about trombones. How's this for a geriatric senior moment? We were both so concerned with getting up before the window cleaner arrived that we both forgot all about the birthday. Window cleaner came, we had our toast and marmalade, then the postman delivered some cards. Only then did I remember and reminded Bern about it by wishing him Happy Birthday.
What lovely weather today - we spent a couple of hours in the garden - our first attempt to tidy things up this year. Then it was time to get ready for the birthday bash - it was at Jay and Lesley's in Pattingham. They'd spent all afternoon cooking Indian - they're well practised and did a good job. Two different curries, and all the side dishes. Les had made chocolate brownies and Carol produced her famous trifle. It was great with all the family there. They'd lit the wood burner in the sitting room and it all looked cosy and warm but for some strange reason we all gravitated to the kitchen and stayed there all evening. Carol told us that she was excited as woodpeckers had started visiting their bird table. However, last night she dreamed that she was looking out at the birds as she always does but on close inspection found that they were knitted. I found this quite funny - isn't it strange how dreams can be so surreal.
6th March 2015
I've not much to say today. I've frittered the morning dabbling with the painting from weeks ago - I didn't manage to improve it - back to pondering how to tackle it along with a sneaky urge to bin it. I've mended Andy's trousers (no 2 grandson) a seam had come undone so I've had to introduce them to the sewing machine - all mended now and I've put a soppy note in the pocket for him to find. He'll groan appropriately and send an equally soppy text just to humour me. While the machine was out I altered a couple of pairs of my own trousers - they needed taking in at the waist. I'm getting thinner and shorter - just shrivelling up I reckon. |
5th March 2015
I'm just back from art class. I finished off the bag drawing I started last week. It lacks the wow factor, I'll look upon it as a learning curve. There was a great variety of work going on this morning, alongside those of us doing pencil drawing were people working with oil pastel, soft pastel, knife and brush painting in acrylic, collage, and watercolour. At coffee time we take the opportunity to look at each other's work.
Happy Birthday Gary (son-in-law) we'll catch up with him at the weekend "do".
I'm just back from art class. I finished off the bag drawing I started last week. It lacks the wow factor, I'll look upon it as a learning curve. There was a great variety of work going on this morning, alongside those of us doing pencil drawing were people working with oil pastel, soft pastel, knife and brush painting in acrylic, collage, and watercolour. At coffee time we take the opportunity to look at each other's work.
Happy Birthday Gary (son-in-law) we'll catch up with him at the weekend "do".
I was quite amused to read about the fairies occupying Wayford Woods in Crewkerne Somerset. They've been invading the woods since the millennium and now there are over 200 little doors in the trees and some trees have as many as 10 doors. They are installed by local people so children can leave messages for the fairies. Trustees of the wood say that there are now so many they're beginning to be troublesome as they like people to refrain from strayin from the pathways to avoid damage to the woodland. Trustee Steven Acreman said: "We've got little doors everywhere. We're not
anti-fairies but it's in danger of getting out of control." I not yet sure what I really think of this - it's a fun idea I suppose but I hope they're not damaging the trees.
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4th March 2015
Carol called in after work yesterday - we had a lively chat session before she dashed back to Shrewsbury. Anyone within Gary's earshot, please don't mention keys, doors, or cold weather. Carol, Gary, and Jon went out for a bite last weekend. Carol insisted she had keys in her bag so the guys didn't bother hunting round for theirs. Guess what - when they arrived home they were locked out - Carol's keys were not in the handbag, which. incidentally, is a "busy area" so it's difficult to ascertain exactly what's in there. (She gets it from me I fear.) Anyway - breaking into their own house involved Jon climbing over the side fence into the back garden. Breaking open a door of an outside cupboard place that houses garden things. Then breaking down a dividing wall thing that leads from the strange cupboard or lobby sort of place into a another cupboard space that's in the garage. There's a door into the kitchen from the garage. Gary was a trifle displeased to say the least, especially as the aftermath involved numerous repair jobs. You'd think maybe someone would have suspected burglars what with climbing fences, bashing out-house doors down etc. but they've not been arrested.
Carol called in after work yesterday - we had a lively chat session before she dashed back to Shrewsbury. Anyone within Gary's earshot, please don't mention keys, doors, or cold weather. Carol, Gary, and Jon went out for a bite last weekend. Carol insisted she had keys in her bag so the guys didn't bother hunting round for theirs. Guess what - when they arrived home they were locked out - Carol's keys were not in the handbag, which. incidentally, is a "busy area" so it's difficult to ascertain exactly what's in there. (She gets it from me I fear.) Anyway - breaking into their own house involved Jon climbing over the side fence into the back garden. Breaking open a door of an outside cupboard place that houses garden things. Then breaking down a dividing wall thing that leads from the strange cupboard or lobby sort of place into a another cupboard space that's in the garage. There's a door into the kitchen from the garage. Gary was a trifle displeased to say the least, especially as the aftermath involved numerous repair jobs. You'd think maybe someone would have suspected burglars what with climbing fences, bashing out-house doors down etc. but they've not been arrested.
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution came into being on this date in 1824, founded by Sir William Hillary. It's a charity I have much time for as the brave volunteers do a tough job often in terrible conditions.
During a moment of random Googling and reading stuff I was surprised to discover that there was once a Wolverhampton Lifeboat. How bizarre is that? Here's a link to the website I found: http://lostwolverhampton.co.uk/2012/10/lifeboat-three-perhaps/ |
An e-mail has just arrived from my friend Thelma (she writes and paints and lives in Wombourne). We've recently been looking at pictures of stones and pebbles (bibbles if you're Black Country). The original pictures arrived in an e-mail that was circulating, sent by Denise I think. Anyway, Thelma has delved a bit deeper and found that balancing stones is an activity that seems to be gathering interest, we suspect it requires a calm, meditative, Zen-like approach. Have a look at this, it's certainly inspirational if you need a new hobby: www.gravityglue.com?
3rd March 2015
I've just been fiddling about trying to remember how to attach a scanned document to an e-mail. Got there in the end - it was Bern's entry for the giant sudoku in the telegraph, its five linked grids - the prize is £100 book tokens. Fingers crossed then. Did anyone watch Arthur & George last night - ITV dramatisation of the Julian Barnes book? I thought they'd made a good job of it. I read the book ages ago when it was first published. I found it interesting as it's a true story that took place on our doorstep - Great Wyrley. Hard to imagine Sir Arthur Conan Doyle dashing round these parts chasing baddies. I found Martin Clunes' Scottish accent unconvincing and noticed that is 'slipped' occasionally but the drama had great atmosphere. I was bemused to learn that during the investigations people confused fact with fiction and some actually thought that Conan Doyle was Sherlock Holmes. |
It's writers' group today - I've no homework prepared. Another 'lurk at the back' day for me. I've unearthed an ancient piece that fits the brief just in case there's a low attendance - it won't get foisted on them unless there's a bit of a lull in proceedings. The brief is to choose a theme from this list: Water, Weather, Desert, War, Siblings, then write either a poem, story, article, or essay to your chosen theme.
2nd March 2015
I've been happily harbouring thoughts of spring and then this morning the unwelcome white stuff floated past the window - I'd swear it looked defiant as I gazed at it with annoyance - hope it doesn't linger. Brrr it's cold enough for hot chocolate (low calorie of course, 38 per serving) excuse me while I put the kettle on. This morning the weather girl said we'd be have double figure temperatures by the end of the week - whoo-hoo. 2nd March 1882: A chap named Rodrick McLean tried to assassinate Queen Victoria at Windsor by shooting her. It was the last and eighth attempt made to kill or assault her over a period of 40 years. It is purported that Mclean's attempt was made because of the curt reply he'd received after sending some poetry to the Queen. He was tried for high treason in April of the same year and found 'not guilty, but insane' by a jury who took just five minutes to reach a verdict. He lived out his days in the Broadmoor Asylum and died in 1921. The verdict prompted the Queen to ask for a change in English law so that those implicated in cases with similar outcomes would be considered "guilty, but insane."
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1st March 2015
White rabbits... pinch punch first of the month...etc... and happy St David's Day - don't forget to brandish your leeks and daffs. We've done our Sunday vacuum frenzy upstairs and down and both now retired to our computer screens (as you do). Bern's renewing his driving licence online and I'm about divulge another of his miserly moments. (Luckily he puts up with my hyperbolic criticisms), We didn't get round to doing the weekly shop until late yesterday afternoon and I wasn't too suspicious when he insisted we go to Sainsbury's. The penny dropped at the till (pun unintended) when we were handed a voucher for .10p off a litre of petrol. As we left the car park Bern announced that he needed to top up. I glanced at the gauge and saw that we were were winging it on red. The poor old Honda gasped its way to the pumps desperate for a drink. Bern skipped back from the checkout rubbing his hands and smiling - "I've saved £4.40." He had, but only by the skin of his teeth. |
We called on Jay and Lesley this afternoon. They've had their sofas reupholstered, a change from dark red/rust to a pale grey wool. The transformation is surprising and gives an updated light and airy feeling to the room - very nice indeed.
28th February 2015
We're nearly finished with February then. The weather man has forecast strong winds for tonight so it looks like March will be on form and come in like a lion.
Bern's doing a telephone marathon this morning. The house and buildings insurance is due. Last year's provider sent a quote which he's unhappy with. He phoned round a few more and then went back to the original one to tell them he had a cheaper offer. They immediately reduced their quote by £31 to undercut the one Bern told them about. He's rubbing his hands together - but it's worth negotiation as they're quick to bump up prices every year. Having just saved £31 he's now moaning about the cost of a "snack" at Strensham Roadchef (motorway services near Worcester). We're used to him watching the pennies and the kids joke about Pa either rubbing his hands or wringing 'em -depending on whether it's 'money in' or 'money out'. He's just waved a receipt under my nose complaining that eating out is very expensive - he had S Mush & Chs F'brd and S tl hot choc. Apparently that translates as single mushroom and cheese flat bread and single tall hot chocolate i.e. a small square sandwich and a hot drink. £7.08. A moot point? Get this one gang: he's hopping up and down because he can't balance his bank statement with his own computer records - there's a 0.2p disrepancy!!! I've offered him a 0.2p coin but he says "that's not the point." I must ask if he's read a book called "Silas Marner" by George Elliot.
We're nearly finished with February then. The weather man has forecast strong winds for tonight so it looks like March will be on form and come in like a lion.
Bern's doing a telephone marathon this morning. The house and buildings insurance is due. Last year's provider sent a quote which he's unhappy with. He phoned round a few more and then went back to the original one to tell them he had a cheaper offer. They immediately reduced their quote by £31 to undercut the one Bern told them about. He's rubbing his hands together - but it's worth negotiation as they're quick to bump up prices every year. Having just saved £31 he's now moaning about the cost of a "snack" at Strensham Roadchef (motorway services near Worcester). We're used to him watching the pennies and the kids joke about Pa either rubbing his hands or wringing 'em -depending on whether it's 'money in' or 'money out'. He's just waved a receipt under my nose complaining that eating out is very expensive - he had S Mush & Chs F'brd and S tl hot choc. Apparently that translates as single mushroom and cheese flat bread and single tall hot chocolate i.e. a small square sandwich and a hot drink. £7.08. A moot point? Get this one gang: he's hopping up and down because he can't balance his bank statement with his own computer records - there's a 0.2p disrepancy!!! I've offered him a 0.2p coin but he says "that's not the point." I must ask if he's read a book called "Silas Marner" by George Elliot.
Today is the anniversary of the ending of the Gulf War - Iraq accepted the resolutions made by the United Nations. On the previous day, 27th Feb, Kuwaiti forces re-entered Kuwait city and President George Bush announced a cease fire. Operation Granby was the name given to the British military operations during the 1991 Gulf War. 53,462 troops were deployed during the conflict. The cost of operations was £2.434 billion (1992), of which at least £2.049 billion was paid for by other nations such as Kuwait and Saudi Arabia; £200 million of equipment was lost or written off. Here's a rather fuzzy picture of Jay when he was in the middle of it all. When you look at the cost and the state of things today the same old questions arise: why? and was it worth it?
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27th February 2015
Sunshine has made the frosty morning all sparkly - before it melts we have a brief spell of pretty twinkle . I've just listened to Desert Island Discs (Radio 4). I like these little insights into people's lives. This morning it' was the famous tenor, Jonas Kaufman. The next programme has started - 'Book of the Week' - Mary Portas is reading episode 5 of her biography. This isn't something I would have considered reading but it sounds interesting - this is the only part of it I've heard, but again another enlightening peep into someone's life. She had some tough and unhappy times in her early years no doubt giving her the strength to forge a successful career. Hearing this snippet has changed my thinking - I thought she was someone who had done nothing more than turn shopping into an art form. (Sorry Mary).
Sunshine has made the frosty morning all sparkly - before it melts we have a brief spell of pretty twinkle . I've just listened to Desert Island Discs (Radio 4). I like these little insights into people's lives. This morning it' was the famous tenor, Jonas Kaufman. The next programme has started - 'Book of the Week' - Mary Portas is reading episode 5 of her biography. This isn't something I would have considered reading but it sounds interesting - this is the only part of it I've heard, but again another enlightening peep into someone's life. She had some tough and unhappy times in her early years no doubt giving her the strength to forge a successful career. Hearing this snippet has changed my thinking - I thought she was someone who had done nothing more than turn shopping into an art form. (Sorry Mary).
26th February 2015
I'm shuffling on this morning as it's art class. Bed's made, just going to sort out the kitchen and have some breakfast then I'm off. Back later for a chat.
Home again - a bit late getting back as I called on Jose to see how she's recovering from her recent heart scariness (see 15th Feb). I took some daffodils (she loves daffs) and delivered all the gossip she may have missed. She said she felt fine other than feeling tired. This morning's class was OK despite my having turned up without a project in mind. I managed to bluff my way without inducing Roland's wrath by plonking my (I'm embarrassed to mention the flipping word again after the last two days) I plonked my full of junk (K) handbag on the desk and proceeding to draw it. When Roland came round to see how we were getting on he looked at my pencil drawing, uttered a few ums and arghs and then said, "...adjust your tones, that's worth finishing...." I was quite pleased with that comment but how am I going to get my big sack of a bag to get back into the same pose, everything inside has shuffled about, next time I sit it down its bulgey bits will have rearranged themselves. There were mixed comments about last Sunday's Art Challenge programme (BBC TV). Roland didn't like the judges' comments, and he disagreed with their choice of who should be sent home.
I'm shuffling on this morning as it's art class. Bed's made, just going to sort out the kitchen and have some breakfast then I'm off. Back later for a chat.
Home again - a bit late getting back as I called on Jose to see how she's recovering from her recent heart scariness (see 15th Feb). I took some daffodils (she loves daffs) and delivered all the gossip she may have missed. She said she felt fine other than feeling tired. This morning's class was OK despite my having turned up without a project in mind. I managed to bluff my way without inducing Roland's wrath by plonking my (I'm embarrassed to mention the flipping word again after the last two days) I plonked my full of junk (K) handbag on the desk and proceeding to draw it. When Roland came round to see how we were getting on he looked at my pencil drawing, uttered a few ums and arghs and then said, "...adjust your tones, that's worth finishing...." I was quite pleased with that comment but how am I going to get my big sack of a bag to get back into the same pose, everything inside has shuffled about, next time I sit it down its bulgey bits will have rearranged themselves. There were mixed comments about last Sunday's Art Challenge programme (BBC TV). Roland didn't like the judges' comments, and he disagreed with their choice of who should be sent home.
25th February 2015
A friend I worked with yonks ago (Eileen Griffiths) popped in here today and left us a message. She confesses to joining me in being a Kipling bag fan. She said there's a new Kipling shop in Birmingham - but she has such a virulent case of Kiplingitis that her hubby has declared Birmingham to be a no-go area. Commiserations Eileen, there's always QVC and Amazon, not to mention the online Kipling site. Well, I think we're all Kiplinged out now so we'll put bags on a back-burner. One tiny little mention before we shelve it: An e-mail from Doreen (poppies and birthday yesterday) I quote.... "I must admit to being a Kipling Bag fan - they're so versatile. I keep using my favourite ... - it's part of my life." Only one thing I can say to that... "Carry on Kipling everyone, it seems like we're all at it. Oh, and Eileen has been on again to say there's a website called "Posh Bags" that sells them - worth a Google. |
Rene made me smile; she's been to visit her grandson in Cardiff to view his house. She met up with him and had a grand tour of his house via Skype. Technological travel I guess, you don't have to leave your armchair.
I'm glad to hear on the News that they're going clamp down on telephone cold callers - one of today's big irritations. Depending upon my mood, sometimes I'm curt with them and at other times I'll engage them in conversation and endeavour to bore their socks off. I particularly like the ones who begin: "according to the national database...." I then launch into my spiel about the Data Protection Act and ask if their call to me is within the boundaries of current legislation laid down by the said Act. Usually they haven't a clue "... I'll just ask my supervisor, please hold...". That's when I put the phone down. Then I feel sorry for the caller because they're just doing a job and I've probably spoiled their day.
24th February 2015
Happy birthday to my friend Doreen. You remember Doreen, she helped me knit the poppies for Ian's school project last year. It's writers' group today but I'm giving it a miss - I'm low on mojo and haven't done my homework - I also have some errands I need to do and you can't be in two places at once. Other than the troubles of the world there's not not much to mention today so maybe I'll quit burbling and leave you all in peace as I'll only end up talking for the sake of talking, uttering nothing but pleonasms. Don't you just love words like that? Pleonasm. It sounds medical rather than literary, but my well-thumbed, tried and trusted, Penguin dictionary of Literary Terms and Literary Theory tells me it means... "Redundant use of words. It may be deliberate but is usually involuntary. A common fault in much writing. For example: 'in this day and age', instead of 'now', 'today' or 'nowadays'. Pleonasm is a Greek word meaning 'superfluity'. I wonder if, seeing as I'm given to using pleonasms, I can describe myself as pleonistic, I've scattered quite a few of the little blighters in this tiny paragraph. Er... no prizes for spotting them, I'm aware of my word-nerd tendencies and many other shortcomings.
Happy birthday to my friend Doreen. You remember Doreen, she helped me knit the poppies for Ian's school project last year. It's writers' group today but I'm giving it a miss - I'm low on mojo and haven't done my homework - I also have some errands I need to do and you can't be in two places at once. Other than the troubles of the world there's not not much to mention today so maybe I'll quit burbling and leave you all in peace as I'll only end up talking for the sake of talking, uttering nothing but pleonasms. Don't you just love words like that? Pleonasm. It sounds medical rather than literary, but my well-thumbed, tried and trusted, Penguin dictionary of Literary Terms and Literary Theory tells me it means... "Redundant use of words. It may be deliberate but is usually involuntary. A common fault in much writing. For example: 'in this day and age', instead of 'now', 'today' or 'nowadays'. Pleonasm is a Greek word meaning 'superfluity'. I wonder if, seeing as I'm given to using pleonasms, I can describe myself as pleonistic, I've scattered quite a few of the little blighters in this tiny paragraph. Er... no prizes for spotting them, I'm aware of my word-nerd tendencies and many other shortcomings.
23rd February 2015
Phew, I've just pegged the washing - you know when they say a cold wind cuts like a knife - well I'm sliced, diced, and well chopped by the one that's flinging itself round our garden this morning. Carol rang earlier to ascertain if I had any family news. She said they'd had an "indoors" weekend too due to the cold and gloomy weather. I reckon very soon we'll be all teetering on our doorsteps in anticipation of a warm, sunny day. I don't know about you, but personally, I can't wait to crawl out of the woodwork.
Phew, I've just pegged the washing - you know when they say a cold wind cuts like a knife - well I'm sliced, diced, and well chopped by the one that's flinging itself round our garden this morning. Carol rang earlier to ascertain if I had any family news. She said they'd had an "indoors" weekend too due to the cold and gloomy weather. I reckon very soon we'll be all teetering on our doorsteps in anticipation of a warm, sunny day. I don't know about you, but personally, I can't wait to crawl out of the woodwork.
23rd Feb 1820: The Cato Street Conspiracy. The Conspirators were a group of Londoners led by revolutionary fanatic Arthur Twistlewood - they disagreed with the way the government ruled England. They wanted revolution to force political change and planned to murder Members of Parliament and parade through the slums of London displaying the severed heads of their victims. On the night of 23rd February1820, the conspirators met in a flat in Cato Street, near London's Grosvenor Square where they wrongly assumed several MPs were dining. Government spies had infiltrated the group and and tipped off the police. Before they could carry out the killings police burst into the flat. One of the spies shouted, ‘We are peace officers. Lay down your arms’, but an officer was killed as the conspirators tried to escape. The five ringleaders were arrested immediately and later were publicly executed for high treason outside Newgate prison. Pity we don't have a Mr Twistlewood around to sort out some of today's MPs.
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With Oscars in the air I suppose we'll have many moments of luvvies loving themselves on TV - I can't understand why these award ceremonies are so high profile. Yes I enjoy the films, I like the actors, I like the music, blah-blah-blah. But it's the career they chose and they're well paid so why we're subjected to watching them pat each other on the back is beyond me. And before you say it: yes, I do hit the 'off'' button. Here's a bit of Oscar info in case you're a fan. An Oscar statuette weighs 8.5 lbs and stands 13.5 inches high. The statuettes presented at the initial ceremonies were gold-plated solid bronze. Within a few years the bronze was abandoned in favour of britannia metal, a pewter-like alloy which is then plated in copper, nickel silver, and finally, 24-karat gold. Due to a metal shortage during World War II, Oscars were made of painted plaster for three years. Following the war, the Academy invited recipients to redeem the plaster figures for gold-plated metal ones.
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Officially named the Academy Award of Merit, the statuette is better known by its nickname, Oscar. While the origins of the moniker aren't clear, a popular story has it that Academy librarian (and eventual executive director) Margaret Herrick remarked that it resembled her Uncle Oscar. The Academy didn’t adopt the nickname officially until 1939, but it came into use in 1934 when Hollywood columnist Sidney Skolsky used it when referring to Katharine Hepburn’s first Best Actress win.
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21st - 22nd February 2015
Hardly a scintillating weekend. The weather was uninviting so things whittled down to household chores, shopping, washing. Later on Saturday afternoon Jay and Lesley called in - jolly chat, tea and biscuits etc., - then they went home to Pattingham to hole up for the rest of the weekend. They said it's their first weekend at home since Christmas so I reckon they'll be glad of some TV and sofa time. Did you see the Painting Challenge programme on BBC, Sunday, 6.00 pm? Looks like it's taking the same format as Sewing Bee and Bake Off. Each week someone will be chucked out until there's a winner. I found it very watchable.
Hardly a scintillating weekend. The weather was uninviting so things whittled down to household chores, shopping, washing. Later on Saturday afternoon Jay and Lesley called in - jolly chat, tea and biscuits etc., - then they went home to Pattingham to hole up for the rest of the weekend. They said it's their first weekend at home since Christmas so I reckon they'll be glad of some TV and sofa time. Did you see the Painting Challenge programme on BBC, Sunday, 6.00 pm? Looks like it's taking the same format as Sewing Bee and Bake Off. Each week someone will be chucked out until there's a winner. I found it very watchable.
20th February 2015
I reckon today's highlight will be watching the blue recycling bin gettig emptied. Sometimes I wish I'd lived my life like a "wild thing" and then my current sedentary lifestyle would be a novelty. Another jolly moment this morning was spotting that a packet of bacon in the fridge has outlived its sell-by date. On a more positive note, I've just seen a robin with a beak-full of nesting material, spring can't be far away now. |
Despite its downbeat beginning my morning had brightened by lunchtime. I'm feeling a tad guilty about doing it but on the other hand, why not? I've galloped round Amazon (virtual exercise) and ordered a new Kipling bag. You can't be happier than knowing a new Kipling bag is coming your way. Anyone else a Kipling bag fan? I never buy any other sort. Yes, I know they're cultish, aimed at the young, and have a dangly monkey, and they come in shouty colours. But when it comes to these little charmers I can shrug off common sense and just go for it. I like them because they are very light, hold loads of woman-clutter and there's always the dangly monkey to talk to. Their other saving grace is you can put them in the washing machine and they come out as good as new. I once read that women's handbags are good at gathering bacteria because we plonk them down in all sorts of places, and very often on the floor, where they gather monstrous germs. Ugh!
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19th February 2015
Happy birthday to the WI - founded 19th February 1897. I suppose most of us think of the organisation as typically British, but it actually began in Canada. I'm not a WI member but I believe meetings still happen locally. Find out more: http://www.thewi.org.uk/about-the-wi
I've had a look round this website and spotted some interesting common-sense recipe books available at their online shop. The one that took my fancy is about one-pot recipes. I like the idea of stuffing everything in a casserole dish and letting it look after itself.
Happy birthday to the WI - founded 19th February 1897. I suppose most of us think of the organisation as typically British, but it actually began in Canada. I'm not a WI member but I believe meetings still happen locally. Find out more: http://www.thewi.org.uk/about-the-wi
I've had a look round this website and spotted some interesting common-sense recipe books available at their online shop. The one that took my fancy is about one-pot recipes. I like the idea of stuffing everything in a casserole dish and letting it look after itself.
The worlds biggest annual migration takes place today as Chinese people head home to celebrate their New Year. Google search box has honoured the New Year with a little cartoon animal head-butting a tree adorned with Chinese lanterns? (such little things amuse me). Today the Chinese say goodbye to the year of the Horse and welcome the year of Goat. In Mandarin the word is 'Yang' meaning horned animal. 'Yang' is applied to goat, sheep and ram, so no one is sure whether we should be calling 2015 goat, sheep or ram. I've done a bit of Googling and it looks like the consensus is to go with goat. Here's a link so you can find out if you are a Goat/Sheep/Ram http://www.chinese-astrology.co.uk/goat.html
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18th February 2015
CONGRATULATIONS to Jenny and Ian. They rang yesterday to tell us they are engaged. It all happened during the romantic trip to Cologne for Ian's birthday and it also happened to be Valentine's weekend. What one might call an eventful time and what better way to spend your time at half-term. Wonderful news. |
A note for art group friends: Hilary e-mailed this morning to say there's a new BBC TV programme on Sunday at 6.00pm called The Big Painting Challenge. Sounds like a "must watch". Thanks Hilary.
Crikey - I forgot to do the Shrove Tuesday thing yesterday - we didn't eat pancakes. In times gone by Shrove Tuesday was the last chance to gorge yourself and/or enjoy a bit of revelry before giving up all things nice for Lent.
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February 18th 1930 - the planet Pluto was discovered by astronomer Clyde Tombaugh. Scientists argue that Pluto is not a proper planet after being downgraded to the status of 'minor planet' in 2006. The official definition states that a planet is a celestial body if:
it is in orbit around the Sun It is round or nearly round It is not surrounded by objects of similar size and characteristics. Pluto is on the puny side, with a radius close to 750 miles — about one-fifth the size of Earth's. The debate continues as to whether or not Pluto is a planet. I feel a bit sorry for poor old Pluto now - happy birthday Pluto, or should I say happy anniversary of being known to earth people. |
17th February 2015
There's not much happening at the moment - the family are all at work and a lucky few are on a half-term break. There's no writers' or art meeting this week leaving me lots of time to daydream. I've just pegged some washing and it's really bright and breezy. I had a quick look round outside and we still have snowdrops in bloom, accompanied by primroses and a few crocuses are just opening. Our witch hazel shrub (hamamelis) has been making a lovely yellow splash for weeks. |
Do you say "Shroosbury" or "Shrowsbury" ? Of course I'm talking Shrewsbury here but there's been debate and dissent about the pronunciation since time immemorial. Apparently, long ago, and shown on old maps, the spelling was Shroesbury. There are still two camps regarding pronunciation who fight it out on Twitter and Facebook. If you listen carefully you'll notice that some people actually say "Shoosbury" leaving out the 'r'. Now that is lazy and annoying but I guess the shroo v. shrow will continue. I'm on the 'Shrow' side of the fence, just for old times sake and because the maps say so.
16th February 2015
Happy Birthday to Ian - and enjoy your half-term break - hope the weather is dry in Cologne. I wonder if anyone watched the new TV series last night - Indian Summers. We just couldn't get into it and I thought the sets didn't look like India. Bern consulted the Radio Times which said it was shot in Malaya. I don't know if it was our telly or my aged ears, but I could't quite catch all the dialogue so I quickly lost interest. Or maybe I'm just fickle - if it doesn't grab me straight away I move on to something else.
Happy Birthday to Ian - and enjoy your half-term break - hope the weather is dry in Cologne. I wonder if anyone watched the new TV series last night - Indian Summers. We just couldn't get into it and I thought the sets didn't look like India. Bern consulted the Radio Times which said it was shot in Malaya. I don't know if it was our telly or my aged ears, but I could't quite catch all the dialogue so I quickly lost interest. Or maybe I'm just fickle - if it doesn't grab me straight away I move on to something else.
Yesterday afternoon we watched an old 1977 Steven Spielberg film - Close Encounters of the Third Kind - pure fantasy but I was enthralled. That's probably an indicator of my mentality these days. I didn't see it first time round and other than the lack of mobile phones which seem crucial to plots these days, it didn't seem dated. Anyway, we could do with some peaceful aliens coming among us to show earth people how to live without killing each other.
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15th February 2015
I have news of MFJ? (my friend Jose - she acquired that name because our kids were forever hearing me say, "my friend Jose..." so they dubbed her MFJ). I'm sorry to say she has heart problems again. Her hubby Claude rang yesterday to tell us they'd had an emergency dash to hospital and they have fitted two further stents. All's going well and she should be home in a day or two. It was quite a surprise as she was sitting next to me on Thursday at our art class and then going through this trauma the same evening. Get well Jose.
Excuse me for a moment, just going to make coffee before Bern goes to visit his Mum... Back again: I've just put a new bottle of hand-wash stuff in the downstairs loo. I read the waffle on the label and immediately leapt onto my soapbox. The scent of it is purported to be Summer Sunrise. Then there's wording about shea butter and honeysuckle but the bit that made me smile said "cocooning handwash". What's that all about? It reminded me of the stupid wording on menus e.g. cloud-light sponge cossetted in vanilla sauce when what they really mean is cake and custard. The marketing moguls seem to think they can bamboozle us with words. I bought that particular handwash because it matches the colour of the toilet paper and tiles - I hadn't even read the label. Maybe that demonstrates how shallow I am.
I have news of MFJ? (my friend Jose - she acquired that name because our kids were forever hearing me say, "my friend Jose..." so they dubbed her MFJ). I'm sorry to say she has heart problems again. Her hubby Claude rang yesterday to tell us they'd had an emergency dash to hospital and they have fitted two further stents. All's going well and she should be home in a day or two. It was quite a surprise as she was sitting next to me on Thursday at our art class and then going through this trauma the same evening. Get well Jose.
Excuse me for a moment, just going to make coffee before Bern goes to visit his Mum... Back again: I've just put a new bottle of hand-wash stuff in the downstairs loo. I read the waffle on the label and immediately leapt onto my soapbox. The scent of it is purported to be Summer Sunrise. Then there's wording about shea butter and honeysuckle but the bit that made me smile said "cocooning handwash". What's that all about? It reminded me of the stupid wording on menus e.g. cloud-light sponge cossetted in vanilla sauce when what they really mean is cake and custard. The marketing moguls seem to think they can bamboozle us with words. I bought that particular handwash because it matches the colour of the toilet paper and tiles - I hadn't even read the label. Maybe that demonstrates how shallow I am.
14th February 2015
Hi everyone - here's a soppy valentine card for you in case you didn't get one. Sorry It's a bit late - 11.00 pm - in bed with my laptop. I've just been catching up with my online Scrabble games. Our Internet has been 'down' all day so I've sulked - glad to say it's back again now. Prior to the Scrabble I watched Sewing Bee on 'catch up' telly. The people who take part are extremely good amateurs with advanced sewing skills - I love the programme. We had a text from Jay to say the shirt was waiting for him in the Covent Garden branch of Rohan - I'm well impressed. (see yesterday's shirt saga.) Carol called in this morning on her way from Lichfield to Shrewsbury. She and Gary had stayed overnight with Ian and Jenny - a pre-birthday visit for Ian as he and Jenny will be in Cologne for a for a few days next week. |
13th February 2015
If you're prone to paraskevidekatriaphobia shrug it off - fears of Friday 13th are just superstitious nonsense, urban myths, rubbish. Now we've put paid to that little worry we can sail through the day without giving it another thought (touch wood, chuck salt over your left shoulder, mind that ladder, and don't upset the black cat). February 13th 1692 was rather a bad day for the Macdonald clan - they were slaughtered by the Campbell clan at the Massacre of Glencoe. It happened to be a Saturday so they can't blame that one on paraskevidekatriaphobic forces. |
One of the horrendous acts of mankind - they staged the ugliest imaginable event in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Jay was on his day off yesterday and so for the second time this week we heard the chug-chug-chug of the camper van. Tea, biscuits, football talk with Bern, all the usual stuff. I noticed that as he sat down he did so very gingerly. I put my interrogation skills into practise to enquire if he had aches and pains. He revealed that having been out of the saddle, bicycle saddle that is, for some time (bad weather, trip to Burma, etc. etc.) he'd decided that this week he would resume cycling to work from Pattingham to Smethwick in the interests of exercise and being cost effective. The aches and pains I'd noticed were in the bottom area. He then explained the trials and tribulations encountered by cyclists' bottoms. To be happy in the saddle the serious cyclist's bottom has to be toughened up gradually or else one suffers saddle soreness. I knew nothing about these technicalities until this conversation. I'd always wondered why those special cycling trousers, tights, (not sure what they are) have a lumpy bit in the bum area. More questions and Jay assured me that this is what they are for, to make cycling a more comfortable thing to do. When I suggested a pair of tights and packet of Pampers would serve the same purpose at half the cost I received a look of disdain rather than enlightened enthusiasm. I think I'm glad I'm not a cyclist.
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Bicycle moment over, I asked if the travelling shirt is in his possession yet. I think I mentioned this flipping shirt a couple of days back - so while the iron was hot and he was in a talkative mood (tea and biscuits still flowing) I asked for a re-run on the shirt saga. Here goes: the shirt was ordered online from the Rohan sale - a company that markets its own brand of travel and outdoor clothing. Anyway, he did the biz, and ordered the shirt online. Rohan said they didn't have the shirt locally but would send one down from their Scottish store in Perth. Then came Jay's brainwave. To avoid paying delivery costs he decided to have the shirt delivered to the Shrewsbury store as his sister (Carol) lives in Shrewsbury and she could collect it for him. Bern sees Gary every day so Gary could bring the shirt from Shrewsbury to Wolverhampton, give it to Bern for us to give to Jay. Then Jay receives an e-mail to say his shirt is awaiting collection in Stoke. Stoke? He asked for it to be delivered to Shrewsbury. He then realised he may have ticked the "deliver to Stoke" box because it's right next to the "deliver to Shrewsbury" box. (Does your head hurt yet? Hang on, there's more.) He contacts the Stoke store and apologises for his error. They say, "no problem we'll send it to Shrewsbury." (They're very obliging.) The shirt finally arrives in Shrewsbury. Carol collects it. Gary brings it Wolverhampton and passes it to Bern. We tootle over to Pattingham to give it to Jay. No one in, so we stuff it through the letterbox. On their return from Audrey's birthday lunch Jay finds the package and the infamous shirt sees daylight (at last). "B*£$%+!!!" says Jay, "they've sent the wrong size."
Another phone call. "You've sent the wrong size." "No problem," they say. "We'll exchange it." Then Jay puts in another request: "I'll be in London next weekend, can you send it to the Covent Garden store?" "No problem," they say. One has to admire their fortitude.
And that's where we are at the moment. Jay and Les are going to a concert in London this weekend and will make a flying visit to Rohan, Covent Garden. I think Rohan deserve a thumbs up for their eagerness to please someone who claims to care about carbon footprints. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see if the right size shirt lands up at Covent Garden in time for them to collect it. I know Rohan sell travel clothing, but this shirt is more well travelled than most before its even been out of the bag. Watch this space. [link] http://www.rohan.co.uk/
Another phone call. "You've sent the wrong size." "No problem," they say. "We'll exchange it." Then Jay puts in another request: "I'll be in London next weekend, can you send it to the Covent Garden store?" "No problem," they say. One has to admire their fortitude.
And that's where we are at the moment. Jay and Les are going to a concert in London this weekend and will make a flying visit to Rohan, Covent Garden. I think Rohan deserve a thumbs up for their eagerness to please someone who claims to care about carbon footprints. I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see if the right size shirt lands up at Covent Garden in time for them to collect it. I know Rohan sell travel clothing, but this shirt is more well travelled than most before its even been out of the bag. Watch this space. [link] http://www.rohan.co.uk/
12th February 2015
I've just returned from art class - this morning we had to interpret a coloured picture using only black, white, and grey shades - a tonal study. An interesting exercise but I found the sky and clouds the most difficult part using pencil. The Archers is on the radio right now and they're eating lardy cake - I don't think I've ever tried it but the name sounds... well... lardy. I'll probably give it a miss if ever any comes my way, it has to be a cholesterol generator. Each day I think I'll do a bit of tidying up in the garden - each day I decide it's a bit chilly so it doesn't get done. Oh well... one day soon.
I've just returned from art class - this morning we had to interpret a coloured picture using only black, white, and grey shades - a tonal study. An interesting exercise but I found the sky and clouds the most difficult part using pencil. The Archers is on the radio right now and they're eating lardy cake - I don't think I've ever tried it but the name sounds... well... lardy. I'll probably give it a miss if ever any comes my way, it has to be a cholesterol generator. Each day I think I'll do a bit of tidying up in the garden - each day I decide it's a bit chilly so it doesn't get done. Oh well... one day soon.
11th February 2015
There's still nothing much going on in my little world thus minimising my mindless prattle. I'll just mention the power of the press: on this date in 1702 the first English daily newspaper was published - it was called the "Daily Courant". It was produced by Elizabeth Mallet who had premises in Fleet Street, London. The paper comprised a single page with advertisements on the reverse. She advertised that she would only publish foreign news and would not add any comments of her own as she considered her readers to have... "sense enough to make reflections for themselves..." She sold The Daily Courant to Samuel Buckley, who later became the printer of The Spectator. The Daily Courant lasted until 1735 when it was merged with the Daily Gazetteer. (Courant is an old word meaning "of the times" i.e. current.) |
Don't confuse the Daily Courant with the Daily Currant. This is an online English language satirical newspaper covering global politics, business, technology, entertainment, science, health and media. It's accessible from over 190 countries worldwide. [Seems like I'm talking fruit cake here - we've had courant, current, currant.] Here's a link to the Daily Currant. http://dailycurrant.com/
10th February 2015
I heard the familiar chug of the camper van yesterday afternoon - sure enough Jay had tipped up - he'd been on a training day and so finished work earlier than usual. He related a convoluted saga about the travels of a shirt he'd ordered online but I'll have to check the details with him again before I can tell you, I don't know the final outcome as it's ongoing. I still haven't tackled that unfinished painting - I must give myself a kick up the thingy. Spent time this morning editing yesterday's writing - no matter how many times I read it through I find something to change. I've been up and down like yo-yo this morning responding to unsolicited phone calls - they really wind me up. An anonymous voice explains that... "according to the national database you haven't yet...." then they tell you what it is you don't have e.g. cavity wall insulation, solar panels or whatever. I wonder if this national database actually exists and if it does, what happened to the Data Protection Act? Can any old company trying to flog their wares consult this mysterious national database? Then I get even more cross because I don't get chance to question the caller because it's a flipping recording. Grrrrr!
I heard the familiar chug of the camper van yesterday afternoon - sure enough Jay had tipped up - he'd been on a training day and so finished work earlier than usual. He related a convoluted saga about the travels of a shirt he'd ordered online but I'll have to check the details with him again before I can tell you, I don't know the final outcome as it's ongoing. I still haven't tackled that unfinished painting - I must give myself a kick up the thingy. Spent time this morning editing yesterday's writing - no matter how many times I read it through I find something to change. I've been up and down like yo-yo this morning responding to unsolicited phone calls - they really wind me up. An anonymous voice explains that... "according to the national database you haven't yet...." then they tell you what it is you don't have e.g. cavity wall insulation, solar panels or whatever. I wonder if this national database actually exists and if it does, what happened to the Data Protection Act? Can any old company trying to flog their wares consult this mysterious national database? Then I get even more cross because I don't get chance to question the caller because it's a flipping recording. Grrrrr!
9th February 2015
Not much going on today folks. Pegged the washing, waved a duster around here and there, and then spent the rest of the morning writing my homework piece for tomorrow's writers' meeting. Another "blood out of a stone" session scrabbling around for inspiration. The brief is to describe your journey to the meeting but embellish, exaggerate, invent, etc etc to make it into a sinister journey. The thing is, as I battled with this exercise I wondered what idiot had set it. Then I thought about it for a moment and remembered it was me.
Not much going on today folks. Pegged the washing, waved a duster around here and there, and then spent the rest of the morning writing my homework piece for tomorrow's writers' meeting. Another "blood out of a stone" session scrabbling around for inspiration. The brief is to describe your journey to the meeting but embellish, exaggerate, invent, etc etc to make it into a sinister journey. The thing is, as I battled with this exercise I wondered what idiot had set it. Then I thought about it for a moment and remembered it was me.
8th February 2015
Sorry I'm a bit late this morning, Amazon were hounding me to review a gizmo I bought a few weeks ago. I thought I may as well get it done to avoid being chased again. Having said that, it is a good bit of kit deserving a five-star review. It was recommended to me by Richard who comes when the computer is poorly. It's a wireless mouse - I'm very pleased with it. It's called a TeckNet M002 Nano Wireless Mouse. You just plug the little dongle thing that comes with it into a USB port on your computer, then flick the on/off button on the bottom of the mouse and away you go. Happy birthday Audrey (Lesley's Mum). Jay and Les have zoomed down to Hampshire today to join Audrey and Jack for a birthday lunch. |
I see Barn Owls have been officially taken of the "endangered" list. I love these creatures and I'm happy to hear they're flourishing. I'm also very fond of sheep - a particular sheep in fact. It's with trepidation I tell you this in case you think I've totally lost the plot. I watch him on television when there's no one about.
We have quite a menagerie today - a mouse, an owl, and a sheep. |
7th February 2015
We've no particular plans this weekend. I'm up early-ish because it's window cleaner day and as I'm always saying, one of my worst nightmares is his face popping up at the window while I'm still in bed. It's not me I mind him seeing it's the mess we make just to go to sleep. Bern and I both chuck out a pillow or two, then at some stage during the night the hot water bottle hits the deck, so too does the Radio Times and whatever book I'm reading. By the time we wake up the bedroom is clutter strewn, not to mention the tangle of bedclothes that have travelled back and forth during the night. My bedside table is stacked high with laptop, mouse, pills, drink of water, tissues, watch, lamp, handbag and whatever else I've taken to bed. My very first job in a morning is to disperse that lot and make sense of the duvet and it's bedfellows. Jay has to work today so I doubt we'll catch up with him. I'm unsure what everyone else is up to this weekend.
We've done the shopping and half the vacuuming - my back is very achey today so Bern says he'll do my share tomorrow. I just leaned over in Waitrose to pick up a pack of tomatoes and I felt it go - Bern shot out of his skin when I let out a yell. Wolves have lost to Reading but I'm keeping the sporting news positive by clearing two levels in Candy Crush and I'm now on level 103. Such fortitude and dedication.
We've no particular plans this weekend. I'm up early-ish because it's window cleaner day and as I'm always saying, one of my worst nightmares is his face popping up at the window while I'm still in bed. It's not me I mind him seeing it's the mess we make just to go to sleep. Bern and I both chuck out a pillow or two, then at some stage during the night the hot water bottle hits the deck, so too does the Radio Times and whatever book I'm reading. By the time we wake up the bedroom is clutter strewn, not to mention the tangle of bedclothes that have travelled back and forth during the night. My bedside table is stacked high with laptop, mouse, pills, drink of water, tissues, watch, lamp, handbag and whatever else I've taken to bed. My very first job in a morning is to disperse that lot and make sense of the duvet and it's bedfellows. Jay has to work today so I doubt we'll catch up with him. I'm unsure what everyone else is up to this weekend.
We've done the shopping and half the vacuuming - my back is very achey today so Bern says he'll do my share tomorrow. I just leaned over in Waitrose to pick up a pack of tomatoes and I felt it go - Bern shot out of his skin when I let out a yell. Wolves have lost to Reading but I'm keeping the sporting news positive by clearing two levels in Candy Crush and I'm now on level 103. Such fortitude and dedication.
Carol rang earlier - she says she's having a hummus holiday today and going for something more colourful (see 3rd Feb). It's smoked mackerel and beetroot today. Sounds like a celebration after a week of beige on a plate. I saw Stephen Frey being interviewed on morning telly - apparently there's been a supportive response on Twitter about his wedding - I'm on his follower list so I'm just going to read a few tweets. Mind you, I still don't quite "get" the Twitter thing - I'm more nosey parkery than tweetish - I'm just a sad case suffering from computeritis and it's quite untweetable.
5th February 2015
Just a brief visit for now as I'm about to hotfoot it to the village hall for art class. I didn't get round to doing the corrections to my oil painting so I'll not be taking that. It's back to the old routine of turning up clueless about what to do. I've stuffed water colours and drawing kit in my bag - Hope Roland doesn't spot that I'm winging it.
Just a brief visit for now as I'm about to hotfoot it to the village hall for art class. I didn't get round to doing the corrections to my oil painting so I'll not be taking that. It's back to the old routine of turning up clueless about what to do. I've stuffed water colours and drawing kit in my bag - Hope Roland doesn't spot that I'm winging it.
Back again having muddled through the lesson by keeping a low profile. We have a set project for next week: bring a coloured picture or photograph and interpret it in black and white. It's an exercise in tonal values. I'll have to hunt out a picture with obvious contrasts.
If something annoyed my Mum she would say, "it's enough to give you the pip." I've no idea what is meant by 'pip' in this little idiom. But talking of pips, I've just read that on today's date in 1924 the BBC first broadcast the Greenwich time signal known as the 'pips'. I don't know whether it was by design or coincidence but the signal ceased to be transmitted from Greenwich on this date in 1990 - 66 years to the day after their commencement. I believe the pips are now broadcast directly by the BBC - they are not used on digital channels because of the slight time delay in digital transmissions.
4th February 2015
Bleak but bright in Bilbrook today - up here at my desk I can see the garage roof sparkling like a Topshop T-shirt. Which has me thinking, everything's sparkly these days - I remember when you were verging on the avant-garde if you wore a bit of twinkle for a night out. By the way, I've put yesterday's "Old" piece on the writing page - but don't feel obliged - it's only my usual cynical take on things. I've made the bed and I'm just going downstairs for some breakfast now - catch up with you later.
Bleak but bright in Bilbrook today - up here at my desk I can see the garage roof sparkling like a Topshop T-shirt. Which has me thinking, everything's sparkly these days - I remember when you were verging on the avant-garde if you wore a bit of twinkle for a night out. By the way, I've put yesterday's "Old" piece on the writing page - but don't feel obliged - it's only my usual cynical take on things. I've made the bed and I'm just going downstairs for some breakfast now - catch up with you later.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/podcasts/series/ringroad
Here's a link to a BBC podcast of a programme I heard on Radio 4 this morning. It's called "Tales of the Ring Road" and tells of the goings on in the area of Wolverhampton's ring road, including the story of Fred, the tramp who lived in a tent on the central reservations for many years. |
Meet Madeleine. She is one of my Scrabble partners. We play via Facebook usually late in the evening when I'm tucked up in bed with my hottie-bottle. Great fun. Madeleine is Jenny's grandma (Jenny is No 1 grandson's partner).
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3rd February 2015
Carol phoned for an early chats - she's currently on a bit of a health kick - a post-Christmas detox interspersed with the odd vitamin pill specially formulated for the over-fifties. All confectionery lurking in their house has been banished to Gary's workplace for the chaps to gorge on. I inquired about what she's doing about lunch during this period of meagre and closely monitored intake. Her response was "falafel or hummus on wholemeal pitta read." You know too well that I often bang on about the evils of beige clothes - but fawn, fibrous food takes the beige biscuit. What's that little phrase catering people utter when plonking down a plate before you? Enjoy your meal... |
I managed to do a piece for writers' group homework. The brief was to make a list of 8 words, spontaneously without thinking about it. Then choose one of your words as a theme for a piece of writing. My list turned out as follows: Cold, Old, Snow, Radio, Mug, Keyboard, Paint, Easel. I chose the word 'old' to write about, probably because it seems to dominate my thinking these days and the ageing process certainly has a dramatic effect - mainly it's a case of the body not keeping up with the mind's expectations. Anyway, I'll ponder the matter and maybe post it here for you to read.
2nd February 2015
Greetings at Imbolc - the old pagan festival marking the astronomical halfway point between the winter solstice and the spring equinox - and the time to celebrate the start of a new farming year. It began as a Gaelic festival and was much celebrated in Scotland, Ireland and the Isle of Man and was also known as the day of the Irish goddess Brigid. The day was Christianized and became known as St Brigid's Day. I find there is some disparity about the actual date as some sources list it as 1st and some 2nd of Feb. Maybe it changes annually depending upon the alignment of the planets - I don't know. By the way, it's pronounced i-molk or ee-molk - just in case you're thinking of lighting a bonfire to welcome the farming season, the lengenthing days and the tentative beginnings of spring to your plot of land. |
"Last Tango in Halifax" - are you a fan? I've enjoyed this programme since its beginning - great script writing - great acting - great characters. A few loose ends were tied in the final episode but I felt it had been left ready to pick up the threads at a later date - I hope they continue it with another series. I'd better buzz of now and do something about tomorrow's homework for the writers' meeting. I also need to get going with the corrections to my painting.
It's a good job I didn't give more details of "Last Tango": a message from Carol has just landed here: Good morning. Please don't spill the beans on last episode of Halifax, I still have the last one to watch, thoroughly enjoyed it, my weekly treat, have watched since first series.
It's a good job I didn't give more details of "Last Tango": a message from Carol has just landed here: Good morning. Please don't spill the beans on last episode of Halifax, I still have the last one to watch, thoroughly enjoyed it, my weekly treat, have watched since first series.
1st February 2015
January's out of the way now - pinch punch first of the month, white rabbits, and all that.) Now we can settle down to see what February brings. As I write this I'm only a few minutes into February - I'm in bed with my laptop while Bern snores beside us. I considered taking a selfie of the three of us to show you but thought better of it as the colour of my PJs clashes with the duvet cover. We did the supermarket trip as mentioned earlier - we made a first time visit to Lidl and after a quick look round we tossed a coin to decide whether to carry on to Sainsbury's or Waitrose. The former won and we came to the conclusion that maybe we're supermarket snobs - I couldn't cope with all the strange brand names, looks like I'm a stick-in-the-mud too. Back later when I've had a little read and a kip.
January's out of the way now - pinch punch first of the month, white rabbits, and all that.) Now we can settle down to see what February brings. As I write this I'm only a few minutes into February - I'm in bed with my laptop while Bern snores beside us. I considered taking a selfie of the three of us to show you but thought better of it as the colour of my PJs clashes with the duvet cover. We did the supermarket trip as mentioned earlier - we made a first time visit to Lidl and after a quick look round we tossed a coin to decide whether to carry on to Sainsbury's or Waitrose. The former won and we came to the conclusion that maybe we're supermarket snobs - I couldn't cope with all the strange brand names, looks like I'm a stick-in-the-mud too. Back later when I've had a little read and a kip.
February 1st 1709 was the day Scottish sailor Alexander Selkirk (left) was rescued after being marooned for just over four years on the uninhabited island of Mas a Tierra (South Pacific Ocean). His adventure was the direct inspiration for the novel Robinson Crusoe written by Daniel Defoe (right).
There's a bit more to this story... in 1708 two little ships the Duke and the Duchess, captained by Woodes Rogers, sailed from Poole Harbour to look for treasure and adventure in the South Seas. They were hit by a storm off Cape Horn. They approached a small island looking for shelter and saw a light blazing ashore. Captain Rogers sent a boat to investigate and it returned with an exra passenger , a bearded man wearing goatskins. He was Alexander Selkirk. |
31st January 201
What can one say this morning, except brrr! Having said that I argued with the television weather girl this morning. About six times in one commentary she said how cold it's going to be so I snapped back at her with, "well it is January, mid-winter, duh!" Despite the weather I think the birds are thinking of spring. We've seen a magpie gathering twigs and there's a lot of blackbirds about who appear to be socialising - doing a bit of feathered-friends networking I suppose. We've no plans for venturing out this weekend - other than our weekly trolley-tootle round a supermarket - we don't exactly live life at the cutting edge.
What can one say this morning, except brrr! Having said that I argued with the television weather girl this morning. About six times in one commentary she said how cold it's going to be so I snapped back at her with, "well it is January, mid-winter, duh!" Despite the weather I think the birds are thinking of spring. We've seen a magpie gathering twigs and there's a lot of blackbirds about who appear to be socialising - doing a bit of feathered-friends networking I suppose. We've no plans for venturing out this weekend - other than our weekly trolley-tootle round a supermarket - we don't exactly live life at the cutting edge.
30th January 2015
I guess we can't let today pass without mentioning the 50th anniversary of Sir Winston Churchill's funeral. I remember so well watching it on television and the one image I particular remember was the sight of the cranes doing a reverent "bow" as the cortege passed by. The other thing that holds the event in my mind is that, as we sat watching it on telly, Carol, who was 4 at the time, asked why her favourite programme wasn't on as she always watched it at this time. I explained that it wasn't on today because Mr Churchill had died. Her response was, "Oh, is he the man who works the telly?" On reflection, I guess Sir Winston must have been someone special as we usually only commemorate deaths and not funerals |
29th January 2015
Happy birthday Jay - have a good one. It's not a very inviting morning - I've just watched a 30 second snow storm and foolishly hoped that was our allotted for Codsall. Silly me, I see it's started again just as I'm about to leave for art class. Now I'll have to hunt out a large plastic bag to protect my canvas - oh, maybe not, the paint is still wet and it'll get smudged. Better to wing it and dodge the snowflakes. Anyway, maybe I don't have any large plastic bags after clearing out the cupboard last Saturday - already I've forgotten what I kept and what went in the bin - just proving that that whatever you do it comes back to bite you on the bum.
Happy birthday Jay - have a good one. It's not a very inviting morning - I've just watched a 30 second snow storm and foolishly hoped that was our allotted for Codsall. Silly me, I see it's started again just as I'm about to leave for art class. Now I'll have to hunt out a large plastic bag to protect my canvas - oh, maybe not, the paint is still wet and it'll get smudged. Better to wing it and dodge the snowflakes. Anyway, maybe I don't have any large plastic bags after clearing out the cupboard last Saturday - already I've forgotten what I kept and what went in the bin - just proving that that whatever you do it comes back to bite you on the bum.
A postcard arrived this morning - sent by Jay and Les over a week before they travelled home. It was posted in Yangon (formerly Rangoon). I commented to Jay on the huge stamp - it's width is more than half the width of the postcard. He said the best bit was in the Yangon post office where the chap selling stamps fished out a pot of gloopy white glue and a little brush to paste the stamp before sticking it to the card. I guess self-adhesive stamps haven't reached that part of the world yet.
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Oh dear, and I thought it might be finished. Roland has cast his eye over my non-masterpiece and found loads of things wrong with it (no surprise there then). I have to change where the background meets the bit that the vase is sitting on because he said the objects didn't look 'anchored'. Not enough shadow on the lemons. The highlight on my vase has to be painted out and redone further round the vessel. Then he said add another item, perhaps an orange. Back to the drawing boarding... literally!
28th January 2015
In just an hour or so we've had rain, hail, wind, snow, sunshine... I wish it would make up its mind. The snowdrops are braving it out and looking pretty - we have crocus in bud too but they have the sense to refuse to open just yet. Jay and Lesley called in on their way home from work yesterday evening. They looked tanned and well and not particularly pleased to be back in the world of work. Jay has drawn the short straw and is on a late shift for the next few days so there's no point in anyone turning up for his birthday tomorrow - we'll all have to bombard him with texts and/or Facebook messages. |
I'm still not happy with the painting - I'm going to mess about with it again shortly. That's the trouble with paintings - it's hard to decide when they're finished. They either look like they need more work or you can overdo it and ruin something that was on the verge of becoming OK.
Do you like trivia? I do so brace yourselves for a boring moment. I've just read something really interesting... interesting because it's about a word I like. Serendipity. I think it's a happy hopeful word indicating unexpected good outcomes. Well the word was actually 'coined' on 28th January in 1754 by Horace Walpole in a letter to a friend. He alluded to the story "The Three Princes of Serendip" - a tale about blokes who were always making discoveries; by good judgement they happened upon fortuitous things they were not particularly looking for. It's serendipitous that my book fell open at the particular page with this information.
Do you like trivia? I do so brace yourselves for a boring moment. I've just read something really interesting... interesting because it's about a word I like. Serendipity. I think it's a happy hopeful word indicating unexpected good outcomes. Well the word was actually 'coined' on 28th January in 1754 by Horace Walpole in a letter to a friend. He alluded to the story "The Three Princes of Serendip" - a tale about blokes who were always making discoveries; by good judgement they happened upon fortuitous things they were not particularly looking for. It's serendipitous that my book fell open at the particular page with this information.
27th January 2015
Hi everyone - I'm chirpy this morning as I managed to do my homework AND finish the physalis painting yesterday. (Physalis being those dried orange things I showed you on the 20th). I'll run it past Roland on Thursday so he can tell me if it's rubbish or not. The homework? Well I just turned that into a daft ditty - a bit of nonsense really - but I kept to the theme and hopefully met the brief. Of course all this happens while the dust gathers and the vacuum remains inert, and the ironing pile cowers in the cupboard: but let's not dwell on that. Did you see that awful weather that's bringing the USA to a standstill - I'm hoping it doesn't cross the Atlantic.
Hi everyone - I'm chirpy this morning as I managed to do my homework AND finish the physalis painting yesterday. (Physalis being those dried orange things I showed you on the 20th). I'll run it past Roland on Thursday so he can tell me if it's rubbish or not. The homework? Well I just turned that into a daft ditty - a bit of nonsense really - but I kept to the theme and hopefully met the brief. Of course all this happens while the dust gathers and the vacuum remains inert, and the ironing pile cowers in the cupboard: but let's not dwell on that. Did you see that awful weather that's bringing the USA to a standstill - I'm hoping it doesn't cross the Atlantic.
26th January 2015
Monday again - it soon comes round doesn't it. We had a great afternoon yesterday at Andy and Raj's - buffet lunch, family, and endless chat. Raj's mum Chan was there too - we hadn't seen her since the wedding so it was nice to meet up again. She told us of her plans to make her annual trip to India in October to visit her mother who lives in the Northern part of India. I managed to get to the surgery at the crack of dawn (well, 8.50 am if I'm honest) to part with an armful of blood - actually, it was just a bit in little phial, but I do enjoy exaggerating.
Monday again - it soon comes round doesn't it. We had a great afternoon yesterday at Andy and Raj's - buffet lunch, family, and endless chat. Raj's mum Chan was there too - we hadn't seen her since the wedding so it was nice to meet up again. She told us of her plans to make her annual trip to India in October to visit her mother who lives in the Northern part of India. I managed to get to the surgery at the crack of dawn (well, 8.50 am if I'm honest) to part with an armful of blood - actually, it was just a bit in little phial, but I do enjoy exaggerating.
Have you heard the news item about Australia recommending Prince Phillip be awarded a knighthood? I don't quite 'get it'. Sir Prince Phillip doesn't sound right. It's also a revelation to me that other countries hand out knighthoods - I thought it was just a quaint old British custom that I think should be consigned to the "outmoded" file. No doubt many would disagree but we Brits do cling to the past. Well, I'm off to have a crack at my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. It's a tough one this week. Scenario: a single slipper by the garden gate. Write with that scenario in mind. Hmmm. At this moment, I'm stumped!
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I've had a quick nose round Facebook to see what's going on. I found this little story Jay had posted.... I'd made a comment about him trotting round in khaki shorts and flip-flops which prompted him to tell the world that whilst in Burma he went to buy some new flip-flops. Now his feet are largish but not abnormal, just the sort of size chaps over 6ft have. Anyway, when he was in the shop trying on their largest size the little Burmese flip-flop sales people fell about laughing at the size of his feet and obviously considered them to be gargantuan and the likes of which they'd never seen before. I imagined them all going home to relate the tale of Jay's feet over supper. They'll say to their kids, "You'll never guess what I saw today..."
25th January 2015
I've visited Facebook this morning and see that Jay had popped in and left a message which indicates they're home and functioning - his visit was quite early so I guess they're having to retrain their sleep patterns i.e. they're suffering a touch of jet-lag. We're going to Andy and Raj's at lunchtime to meet up with the rest of the crew.
It's the day to celebrate Burns' Night so eat up your haggis and sing a verse of Auld Lang Syne. I'll pass on that one as I don't much care for the oaty groaty stuff. Hope it's not on the menu at Andy's.
I've visited Facebook this morning and see that Jay had popped in and left a message which indicates they're home and functioning - his visit was quite early so I guess they're having to retrain their sleep patterns i.e. they're suffering a touch of jet-lag. We're going to Andy and Raj's at lunchtime to meet up with the rest of the crew.
It's the day to celebrate Burns' Night so eat up your haggis and sing a verse of Auld Lang Syne. I'll pass on that one as I don't much care for the oaty groaty stuff. Hope it's not on the menu at Andy's.
24th January 2015
Despite being an ardent de-clutterer, I made a mortifying discovery about myself this morning. A sudden whim (I'm very prone to sudden whims these days) had me sorting out the under-stairs cupboard. It's a tiny space where a diverse range of objects have lived quite happily for years: vacuum cleaner, Bern's shoes, spare light bulbs, torches, iron, candles, hiding place for the ironing pile, vacuum bags, dusters, polish, dust pan and brush, a 40+ years old little Tonka lorry that belonged to Jay when he was four, an empty ice cream carton full of things like foreign coins, safety pins, screws, shoe-laces, curtain hooks etc., i.e. small items that don't have a proper home. My discovery is that I'm still a clutter-buck because I found others items that I'd shoved into dark corners and forgotten about. There were 4 empty coffee tins, (why?) a gathering of empty spice containers, several tins and boxes of various shapes that hadn't seen daylight or their original contents for years. I found a grubby rug tightly rolled, several fold-up shopping bags from my "save the planet" days, an absolute mountain of carrier bags, bundles of brown paper, bundles of gift wrap paper (which I plan to iron to use again but never get round to it) all pushed into chinks between the rest of the junk, Oh, and there were two forgotten radios, three boxes of wine glasses, a little plastic washing line with dangling pegs, a daft weather station thing that we can't remember where it came from, a vast collection of electrical bits and bobs for connecting this and that to a computer, a brush from a long gone vacuum cleaner, tin of spray paint, a set of never used solar powered lights, sheet of sandpaper, big bag of wallpaper paste, a fold-up shopping trolley thing that had lost its wheels, two big green plastic capes bought in Kew Gardens years ago to escape a sudden downpour, and Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. When I'd dragged out my precious hoard and stacked it in the hallway it morphed into a disgraceful pile of rubbish most of which is now in the bin and fading from my memory. I recall Bern and I wearing the plastic capes - it was an horrendous monsoon-like deluge and everyone rushed to buy said plastic capes - I recall laughing like mad because it looked like Kew had been invaded by green monsters all scuttling about in the rain.
Despite being an ardent de-clutterer, I made a mortifying discovery about myself this morning. A sudden whim (I'm very prone to sudden whims these days) had me sorting out the under-stairs cupboard. It's a tiny space where a diverse range of objects have lived quite happily for years: vacuum cleaner, Bern's shoes, spare light bulbs, torches, iron, candles, hiding place for the ironing pile, vacuum bags, dusters, polish, dust pan and brush, a 40+ years old little Tonka lorry that belonged to Jay when he was four, an empty ice cream carton full of things like foreign coins, safety pins, screws, shoe-laces, curtain hooks etc., i.e. small items that don't have a proper home. My discovery is that I'm still a clutter-buck because I found others items that I'd shoved into dark corners and forgotten about. There were 4 empty coffee tins, (why?) a gathering of empty spice containers, several tins and boxes of various shapes that hadn't seen daylight or their original contents for years. I found a grubby rug tightly rolled, several fold-up shopping bags from my "save the planet" days, an absolute mountain of carrier bags, bundles of brown paper, bundles of gift wrap paper (which I plan to iron to use again but never get round to it) all pushed into chinks between the rest of the junk, Oh, and there were two forgotten radios, three boxes of wine glasses, a little plastic washing line with dangling pegs, a daft weather station thing that we can't remember where it came from, a vast collection of electrical bits and bobs for connecting this and that to a computer, a brush from a long gone vacuum cleaner, tin of spray paint, a set of never used solar powered lights, sheet of sandpaper, big bag of wallpaper paste, a fold-up shopping trolley thing that had lost its wheels, two big green plastic capes bought in Kew Gardens years ago to escape a sudden downpour, and Old Uncle Tom Cobley and all. When I'd dragged out my precious hoard and stacked it in the hallway it morphed into a disgraceful pile of rubbish most of which is now in the bin and fading from my memory. I recall Bern and I wearing the plastic capes - it was an horrendous monsoon-like deluge and everyone rushed to buy said plastic capes - I recall laughing like mad because it looked like Kew had been invaded by green monsters all scuttling about in the rain.
23rd January 2015
Late again - it was Weebly causing the hiccup today (my website host) doing maintenance so I couldn't get in to chat. Lack of access forced me into actually doing a bit of housework just to pass the time, how sad is that? Everywhere is polished and dusted and I've even washed the dusters. I've put the ironing board up in case I get round to doing some ironing later. I've put the formidable pile of ironing ready - challenging myself to do it. I may squash it down to make the pile look smaller before stuffing it back in the cupboard, or maybe I'll nobly do the right thing. Oops! A message from Rene tells me I've dated this post for tomorrow - I've put things right now. Thanks Rene. |
I forgot to mention on Tuesday that we had some interesting news at the Writers' Group meeting. One of our members, David had been up to Glasgow to take part in Eggheads. His team comprised family members - here they are. David is on the front row, far right. He doesn't know when it will be screened but we all look forward to watching David's episode. Once he'd "spilled the beans" we bombarded him with questions. He gave us the low down on the mysterious "green room" and the whys and wherefores of taking part in the filming of a TV show. Participants even have to consider the colour of the clothes they are to wear. He couldn't reveal the outcome of his 'game' - as something akin to the official secrets act is signed so that the news doesn't get out before we watch it on television. Interesting stuff - I like to know how these things work.
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22nd January 2015
Happy Birthday to Maggie - my friend from writers' group and art class and a regular visitor to these pages. I met Maggie years ago when I first started going to Pendrell Hall College - she was the number one office admin person. I'm just off to catch up with her now - it's art class morning and we're having a male model (clothed in case you're wondering).
Back again - everyone worked hard this morning, we found it a difficult task. Our model was James - grandson of Toni one of the class members. I've not much to chat about today - there seems to be a dearth of gossip right now, unless we delve into news items of course. Stuff in the news seems to be horrific these days so maybe it's best not to dwell on it. We had a text from Andy (middle grandson) yesterday evening inviting all the family round to their place on Sunday - it'll be a marathon chinwag - I expect we'll chew the wedding over and hear all about their to trip to Jamaica.
Happy Birthday to Maggie - my friend from writers' group and art class and a regular visitor to these pages. I met Maggie years ago when I first started going to Pendrell Hall College - she was the number one office admin person. I'm just off to catch up with her now - it's art class morning and we're having a male model (clothed in case you're wondering).
Back again - everyone worked hard this morning, we found it a difficult task. Our model was James - grandson of Toni one of the class members. I've not much to chat about today - there seems to be a dearth of gossip right now, unless we delve into news items of course. Stuff in the news seems to be horrific these days so maybe it's best not to dwell on it. We had a text from Andy (middle grandson) yesterday evening inviting all the family round to their place on Sunday - it'll be a marathon chinwag - I expect we'll chew the wedding over and hear all about their to trip to Jamaica.
21st January 2015
The physalis waylaid me again this morning. I got up, peeped at the picture and saw what I did wrong yesterday. Time slipped by while I fiddled with it, then I spent ages cleaning brushes, trying to get orange paint off my hands etc. etc. I wear one of Bern's discarded shirts over my clothes when I'm using oils but I still manage to ruin jumper sleeves. I'm still not happy with it so it remains "work in progress".
Yesterday's writers' meeting went well. I managed to get there early to grab a spot of lunch with Rene, Maggie, and Cora in the Council Offices Cafe before the meeting. Some good stories were read - it's quite a challenge trying to get a story beginning, middle, and end down to 50 words. I've put my contribution on the writing page here.
The physalis waylaid me again this morning. I got up, peeped at the picture and saw what I did wrong yesterday. Time slipped by while I fiddled with it, then I spent ages cleaning brushes, trying to get orange paint off my hands etc. etc. I wear one of Bern's discarded shirts over my clothes when I'm using oils but I still manage to ruin jumper sleeves. I'm still not happy with it so it remains "work in progress".
Yesterday's writers' meeting went well. I managed to get there early to grab a spot of lunch with Rene, Maggie, and Cora in the Council Offices Cafe before the meeting. Some good stories were read - it's quite a challenge trying to get a story beginning, middle, and end down to 50 words. I've put my contribution on the writing page here.
20th January 2015
We've had a message from Jay and Les this morning, they've arrived in Yangon, Burma's largest city and have managed to get an Internet connection. Yangon, formerly known as Rangoon, was the capital city until March 2006 when the military government made Naypyidaw the capital. They have four days to explore Yangon before flying back to Bangkok to get a flight to Heathrow. Sometimes I wonder why they can't settle for Llandudno or least somewhere in touch with the rest of the world. Writers' meeting today - I have my 50-word micro-fiction ready. I'm still messing about with the painting - it's a still life with those orange things I call Chinese lanterns, proper name, physalis. Just for the record, that's not my painting on the right (I wish) it's a proper picture I found on the Internet. The ones I'm using for subject matter are out of our garden - it's an untidy plant in the garden as it wanders about and pops up where it will but I do like the orange lanterns that develop in late summer. I always dry them and put them in a vase - they don't keep their colour forever but they're very good at gathering dust. |
19th January 2015
Happy Birthday to Beryl - my friend in Coven. Can't chat right now I'm due at the doctor's at 9.00 for a prescription review. It's looking brrrr out there, the garage roof is all white and frosty and the bird baths are frozen solid - not a day for mooching about methinks. I think I'll paint when I get back - I've made a start on the one I was banging on about the other day. Sorry, must fly - I need to defrost the car.
Back again - prescription sorted and blood tests booked- same old, same old. And yes, it's very cold out there - I see that last night they had -12C in Scotland. I painted until about 3.00 and then sat down and promptly fell asleep for half an hour. Such stamina!
Happy Birthday to Beryl - my friend in Coven. Can't chat right now I'm due at the doctor's at 9.00 for a prescription review. It's looking brrrr out there, the garage roof is all white and frosty and the bird baths are frozen solid - not a day for mooching about methinks. I think I'll paint when I get back - I've made a start on the one I was banging on about the other day. Sorry, must fly - I need to defrost the car.
Back again - prescription sorted and blood tests booked- same old, same old. And yes, it's very cold out there - I see that last night they had -12C in Scotland. I painted until about 3.00 and then sat down and promptly fell asleep for half an hour. Such stamina!
18th January 2015
Fans of A A Milne celebrate today (his birthday 1882) as "Pooh Day. If you've a notion to join in the fun you need to find a little brook with a nice little bridge and enjoy a game of Pooh Sticks. I think the E H Shepherd illustrations for the Pooh books have far more charm than the modern Disney versions. Here's a couple of Pooh quotations to help get us in Pooh mood...
“People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.” A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.” A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
Fans of A A Milne celebrate today (his birthday 1882) as "Pooh Day. If you've a notion to join in the fun you need to find a little brook with a nice little bridge and enjoy a game of Pooh Sticks. I think the E H Shepherd illustrations for the Pooh books have far more charm than the modern Disney versions. Here's a couple of Pooh quotations to help get us in Pooh mood...
“People say nothing is impossible, but I do nothing every day.” A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
“Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.” A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh
Maria (a friend from writers' group), has sent us this picture of her cat viewing the weather with disdain; which reminds me I haven't yet done my homework for next Tuesday's meeting. The topic is micro-fiction, i.e. write a story in exactly 50 words. Another member, BJ, has written a little drama which is now on Youtube. http://youtu.be/6sLj5jGV0gU
I'm worrying about Jay and Lesley now - they've been holed up in a far flung hotel for three days sufferng a bout of poorliness - a grim experience when you're in the middle of nowhere without a nearby well stocked pharmacy. I'll be glad when they're back under their own roof.
I'm worrying about Jay and Lesley now - they've been holed up in a far flung hotel for three days sufferng a bout of poorliness - a grim experience when you're in the middle of nowhere without a nearby well stocked pharmacy. I'll be glad when they're back under their own roof.
17th January 2015
Last autumn during one of my infamous declutter-cum-tidiness attacks I came across some theatre tokens (or are they vouchers?). Anyway they had been given to Bern almost 6 years ago on his 70th. How's that for geriatric forgetfulness. Anyway we found they were still usable and so yesterday evening Bern, Carol, Gerry and I went to the pantomime. Julian Clary's over-the-top campness had us tittering in the aisles. |
Rajni and Andy (the honeymooners) are back from Jamaica - back to work and reality and shivery UK We're off to Sainsbury's now - such excitement.
24 years ago today Operation Desert Storm began as Gulf War allies mounted a missile attach on Iraq in order to liberate Kuwait. It doesn't seem that long ago - I well remember the anxious moments we all had as Jay was out there with the RAF Regiment.
24 years ago today Operation Desert Storm began as Gulf War allies mounted a missile attach on Iraq in order to liberate Kuwait. It doesn't seem that long ago - I well remember the anxious moments we all had as Jay was out there with the RAF Regiment.
So sorry I'm late this morning - the stats reveal that 42 people have called in already this morning and no doubt they're thinking I'm still in bed. Not the case folks - I unintentionally got involved in yesterday's unfinished knobbly old tree. Before I knew what had happened the morning had slipped through my fingers. I'll show you the guilty time-waster. It's in my sketch book about 10" x 10". I love fat old trees and can't stop drawing them - yeah, I agree with you I'm barking mad. I'll have to branch out and find different subject matter. The mess underneath the tree is supposed to be leaves - I think it looks like that awful pudding they used to serve up at school - Sago! Ugh! Frogspawn personified. The Police have forwarded a message on behalf of Staffordshire Fire and Resue service about Blue Monday - I've posted it on the Neighbourhood Watch page. |
15th January 2015
We're halfway through January already - how time flies. Art class today so I'll be rushing off in a mo. Happy to say we've had an e-mail from Jay and Lesley. I was beginning to think they'd disappeared into the steamy jungle and lost their way. They're still having trouble with Internet connections. Anyway, he says... "No news is good news so we can both trust all is well everywhere. Just a quickie over breakfast to say we’re OK and are currently in Bagan, famous for it’s 26 or so square miles of dusty plain that is home to 3000, give or take a few, temples to choose from. Quite a sight whatever your religious views."
We had a chatty afternoon yesterday with Wendy and Phil, exchanging news and gossip, mainly family stuff. She showed me pictures of their lovely hens - all have names though how they can tell who's who beats me - but we received some lovely fresh eggs, so thank you girls. I get a bit a silly when I'm choosing eggs in the supermarket - have you read the boxes? So many decisions to make... barn eggs, free range eggs, some boxes give a little spiel about their hens happily running round in an orchard. I've even seen perchery eggs, (what are they for heavens sake? Sounds like they're dropped from a great height). Some egg boxes even tell you what colour feathers the birds have - does that affect the eggs? I reckon someone is having a 'larf' and doing a bit of creative writing on egg boxes.
We're halfway through January already - how time flies. Art class today so I'll be rushing off in a mo. Happy to say we've had an e-mail from Jay and Lesley. I was beginning to think they'd disappeared into the steamy jungle and lost their way. They're still having trouble with Internet connections. Anyway, he says... "No news is good news so we can both trust all is well everywhere. Just a quickie over breakfast to say we’re OK and are currently in Bagan, famous for it’s 26 or so square miles of dusty plain that is home to 3000, give or take a few, temples to choose from. Quite a sight whatever your religious views."
We had a chatty afternoon yesterday with Wendy and Phil, exchanging news and gossip, mainly family stuff. She showed me pictures of their lovely hens - all have names though how they can tell who's who beats me - but we received some lovely fresh eggs, so thank you girls. I get a bit a silly when I'm choosing eggs in the supermarket - have you read the boxes? So many decisions to make... barn eggs, free range eggs, some boxes give a little spiel about their hens happily running round in an orchard. I've even seen perchery eggs, (what are they for heavens sake? Sounds like they're dropped from a great height). Some egg boxes even tell you what colour feathers the birds have - does that affect the eggs? I reckon someone is having a 'larf' and doing a bit of creative writing on egg boxes.
Home again: Brrr... glad to get indoors after the wintry blast. I have seriously inky fingers now - I was doing a pen and wash drawing. I use a Rotring art pen for sketching which has an ink cartridge and a water brush pen that you fill with water. I like this bit of kit because it means you can travel light with just a sketch book and two pens. If you fancy giving it a go make sure you get the sketching pen and not the calligraphy version. Of course you do the same exercise with any old pen and ink but I like the convenience of these purpose-made pens.
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14th January 2015
Gone are the days when waking up to a white landscape gave me a little thrill - now I just hunt out a thicker jumper and cower indoors. I've just chopped veg to make some soup - my sister and brother-in-law are popping in at lunchtime. The recipe says "hearty and warming" so just the job for today. They've come up from Caerphilly to have their car serviced (they reckon the Wolverhampton garage does a better job); it's a chance for a nice catch up. Re the "hearty and warming" - I find cliches like this irritating they've been regurgitated for aeons - we've loads more words at our disposal - please food writers, take your pick and try to use some different ones. |
14th January 1878 - At Osborne House on the Isle of Wight, Queen Victoria witnessed a demonstration of the newly-invented telephone. I wonder what she'd make of today's communication gizmos. No chance of fitting one of these early telephones in your handbag Ma'am. Pretty wonderful really to think we've progressed from these wired-up bulky contraptions to a biscuit-sized thing that goes anywhere and does everything to a point of ruling one's life. Are we approaching a time when the question has to be asked - who is in charge, man or machine?
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Yesterday's poem was fairly well received - I might hang on to it for a bit rather than post it here as it might just do for a competition entry. You can't enter previously published stuff for competitions and anything knocking around on the Internet is classed as published so it's under wraps for now.
Carol phoned to tell me about their visit to the Churchill War Rooms in Westminster - the underground bunker where all the top secret stuff of WWII was hammered out. I understand that everything is still "as was" and it was a very interesting visit. This pic is of the bunker kitchen. Compact and bijou - just the job for preparing some wartime tea and toast.
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12th January 2015
The dignified protests against terrorism (Paris, London, Birmingham, and around Europe) were touching. I'll not dwell on the preceding events - we're all well aware of the horrific deeds that took place in France. I can hardly believe I'm hearing mention of antisemitism - what sort of monsters live among us? In the light of all these world-changing events my banal chattering seems vacuous - but we still have to get on with our insignificant little lives.
The dignified protests against terrorism (Paris, London, Birmingham, and around Europe) were touching. I'll not dwell on the preceding events - we're all well aware of the horrific deeds that took place in France. I can hardly believe I'm hearing mention of antisemitism - what sort of monsters live among us? In the light of all these world-changing events my banal chattering seems vacuous - but we still have to get on with our insignificant little lives.
Well, I've procrastinated long enough: I haven't actually taken the top off a tube of paint but there's a blank canvas waiting with hope in its heart on my easel. A little more mulling, cogitation, and general messing about, I may make a start on a new painting. A text from Carol moments ago says they've just grabbed "coffee to go" which I take to mean they're about to hop on the train for home after their London weekend. That's put an idea in my head - I'm off to grab a mug of coffee.
10th & 11th January 2015
We're having an uneventful weekend. Some family members are scattered around the world at the moment - even Carol and Gary have buzzed off to London leaving Jon to take care of the Shrewsbury fort. That leaves Jenny and Ian and us being the only ones under our own roofs. Hope everyones' fence is still standing - bit blustery isn't it? We galloped round Waitrose yesterday - more of a dawdle really but we just go there for a change. Then this morning we vacuumed the dusty corners and generally tidied the place up as well as facing the windy blast to peg some washing. All in all, a thrilling weekend. NOT! There were a couple of moments to dispel my negativity - Wolves won and I got to level 95 on Candy Crush, and there's snowdrops blooming in the garden. |
11th January (1569) was the date of Britain's first national lottery. It was held at St Paul's Cathedral, London, with all proceeds going to fund public works. Blimey - that's a turn up - they were scrounging money from the masses even way back in the sixteenth century.
9th January 2015
We have a bright breezy morning so I've set the washing in motion - the conversation is riveting here, isn't it? But, I think it's a bonus when we see sunshine in January. Jay has sent a message via his iPhone to say their travel news is erratic due to lack of internet connectivity, which I suppose is what we should expect when in remote locations, so there's no further news from that quarter other than they are both OK. They have left us an itinerary which says today they go from Mandalay to Lashio where they pick up a flight to Heho. Without consulting an atlas, I'm clueless. I've just had a quick Google and both Lashio and Heho seem to be busy little towns with temples, bustling markets, colourful people and eating places serving noodles, noodles, and more noodles. |
8th January 2015
Happy Birthday Trudie (sister-in-law) and Happy Birthday Andrew (no 2 grandson), I'll call on Trudie later and I'll try to Facetime Andy on my iPad - they're still in Jamaica so I might get a glimpse of their sunshine. Having to dash at the moment as art class resumes this morning. Back later for a proper chat.
Hello again: I didn't manage a masterpiece (again). I practised my shiny skills - i.e. I tried to draw a stainless steel saucepan and lid with a view to depicting 'shiny'. I really must polish my 'shiny' skills.
Went straight to Fordhouses after art class to visit the birthday girl - stayed for lunch, stayed to chat, then chatted some more when another visitor arrived and hey ho that accounted for Thursday. By the way, it's Elvis's birthday today too - he would have been 80.
Happy Birthday Trudie (sister-in-law) and Happy Birthday Andrew (no 2 grandson), I'll call on Trudie later and I'll try to Facetime Andy on my iPad - they're still in Jamaica so I might get a glimpse of their sunshine. Having to dash at the moment as art class resumes this morning. Back later for a proper chat.
Hello again: I didn't manage a masterpiece (again). I practised my shiny skills - i.e. I tried to draw a stainless steel saucepan and lid with a view to depicting 'shiny'. I really must polish my 'shiny' skills.
Went straight to Fordhouses after art class to visit the birthday girl - stayed for lunch, stayed to chat, then chatted some more when another visitor arrived and hey ho that accounted for Thursday. By the way, it's Elvis's birthday today too - he would have been 80.
7th January 2015
Let me introduce my new coffee mug (courtesy of Ian and Jenny). They certainly know how to make their old granny smile. Just the job for my large hot strong mid-morning caffeine fix. Hot chocolate tastes good in it too (low calorie of course!). "The Great and Calamitous Tale of John Thoms" (how one man accidentally started World War One) by Ian Thornton. The writers' group Christmas read (the one from which I opted out) caused interesting and lengthy discussion at yesterday's meeting. So much so, I now wish I'd persevered with it. Most agreed it was difficult to get into. Like me, they'd been expecting to learn the political ins and outs of the 1914 Franz Ferdinand assassination which was purported to have set in motion the events leading to the outbreak of WWI. The story is told from the point of view of archduke Franz Ferdinand's chauffeur. Intriguing. A book I may well revisit. I think I'll get the Kindle version for £2.99 - the reviews on Amazon judge the book to be "brilliant". I've been thinking of Jay and Les in Burma - it was 98 degrees F yesterday. Whew! |
6th January 2015
At last life is beginning to feel "normal" - children back to school - Christmas banished - and here we are winkling our way into another year. We have writers' group today - homework is a book review - thing is, I didn't read the book because I found it boring so it'll be a 'skulk at the back' week for me. I've just realised I didn't mention Jay's petrol pump moment in yesterday's catch-up. When he and Les were heading back home after spending Christmas with Lesley's family in Hampshire they stopped for a fuel top-up. They were in Lesley's little diesel engine Fiat - Jay filled it with petrol. They had a £200 bill, a 'lost' tank of petrol, and a two hour delay before resuming their journey home - we've heard there was something of a stony silence as they travelled north. I expect things will have warmed up a bit now they're in Mandalay - we've had an e-mail saying it's too hot to sleep. |
The Clee Hills are the highest, most remote and least visited of all the Shropshire Hills – so remote that until the early part of the 20th century they had their own dialect which was barely understood by people in neighbouring towns. They are remote even today, and a journey to the foot of Brown Clee involves negotiating many miles of single track lanes. Yet a visit is well worth the effort. The hills themselves are not spectacular, but the climbs are easy and the views from the summits of both Brown Clee and Titterstone Clee are stupendous. There is no higher ground to the east until the Ural Mountains in Russia.
The Hills were formed on the equator in the Carboniferous period about 300 million years ago, and comprise coal measures intruded by a sheet of very hard dolerite, known locally as Dhustone. They have been inhabited for centuries; there is a Bronze Age complex on Hoar Edge, four Iron Age hill forts on the summits and deserted medieval villages on the lower slopes. The hills have been mined for coal, iron ore and lime since Roman times, and until coal mining ceased in 1926 were the highest coalfields in the country. They have been quarried for Dhustone since 1860 and there is still a quarry in operation there.
The Hills were formed on the equator in the Carboniferous period about 300 million years ago, and comprise coal measures intruded by a sheet of very hard dolerite, known locally as Dhustone. They have been inhabited for centuries; there is a Bronze Age complex on Hoar Edge, four Iron Age hill forts on the summits and deserted medieval villages on the lower slopes. The hills have been mined for coal, iron ore and lime since Roman times, and until coal mining ceased in 1926 were the highest coalfields in the country. They have been quarried for Dhustone since 1860 and there is still a quarry in operation there.
THE MISSING LINK
20th December to 5th January - Richard arrived as promised this morning - normal service has been resumed so I'll dub him Saint Richard. Despite the excitement of wedding fever, followed by Christmas and New Year, it's been torture without my laptop. And how does one pass the time without a computer? I hang my head in shame and confess to having made yet another blanket. It was made from leftovers and helped salve my craving for a keyboard. It looks OK-ish with our red duvet cover - no particular pattern - just a random conglomeration of rectangular and square shapes echoing the pattern and colours of the duvet fabric. 21st December - Winter Solstice - was the day of Raj and Andy's wedding - a magical affair at Somerford Hall, Brewood. The building was beautifully decorated - very understated in silver and gold which toned nicely with the silver theme Andy and Raj had chosen for the tables. Raj's three older sisters were bridesmaids wearing silver/grey dresses - it was WOW. All proceedings took place at the venue and family members and some close friends had rooms overnight so it was party time all over again at breakfast - great fun. There will eventually be more pics we await a CD from the official photographer. We spent Christmas Day with Ian and Jenny (no 1 grandson and partner) in Lichfield. Carol, Gary and Jon came too - Jenny and Ian cooked a smashing meal for nine. Jon zoomed off later as he was flying to New York on Boxing Day for a quick taste of the Big Apple. On New Year's Eve the honeymooners left for Jamaica and on 1st January James and Lesley headed for Burma for an adventure in the far flung wastes of goodness knows where. They're taking several internal flights in the weeks ahead so they're getting around quite a bit - but they plan to linger in Mandalay for several days. I hope they send us some pictures. |
When more pics arrive I'll do a proper wedding page so we can get get a better look at what everyone is wearing (as you do) that's what weddings are for.
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HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone - so sorry things have been a out of kilter for a couple of weeks.
19th December 2014
Hello - Here I am, about to dole out a bit more daily drivel. It's our wedding anniversary today so we've exchanged soppy cards - they get more jokey year by year. We've long given up on red roses and violins - they prove nothing do they? Anyway, what's the rest of the world up to? I've heard the morning's news and it's mostly horror and more horror. Then we hear that the NHS and public services are at breaking so tonight and probably throughout the Christmas drinking season they'll be stretched even further by having to sort out the hoards who deliberately drink too much. What a society! What a mentality! A situation which demands a major soapbox moment. Our taxes are paying for NHS workers, ambulance crews and Police to work overtime to sort out drunks.
I can't find anything of interest relating to today's date in my little book - other than in 1863 Frederick Walton patented linoleum - but I don't think we need to know that, it's not likely to come up in a pub quiz or University Challenge. It's not even a little gem worth tripping out at a dinner party - it wouldn't floor anyone (floor! lino! love it!). Note to self: I must not laugh at my own jokes.
Hello - Here I am, about to dole out a bit more daily drivel. It's our wedding anniversary today so we've exchanged soppy cards - they get more jokey year by year. We've long given up on red roses and violins - they prove nothing do they? Anyway, what's the rest of the world up to? I've heard the morning's news and it's mostly horror and more horror. Then we hear that the NHS and public services are at breaking so tonight and probably throughout the Christmas drinking season they'll be stretched even further by having to sort out the hoards who deliberately drink too much. What a society! What a mentality! A situation which demands a major soapbox moment. Our taxes are paying for NHS workers, ambulance crews and Police to work overtime to sort out drunks.
I can't find anything of interest relating to today's date in my little book - other than in 1863 Frederick Walton patented linoleum - but I don't think we need to know that, it's not likely to come up in a pub quiz or University Challenge. It's not even a little gem worth tripping out at a dinner party - it wouldn't floor anyone (floor! lino! love it!). Note to self: I must not laugh at my own jokes.
Aw, guess what. When I got home from the opticians some lovely flowers had arrived for us - all red and Christmassy. From the Mitchells - wedding anniversary flowers and a thank you for turning up trousers, typings lists and generally doing granny and granddad things. Thanks very much - they're beautiful.
18th December 2014
Did you see the ice pancakes on the news this morning? The River Dee in Aberdeenshire has provided a spectacular winter scene with the formation of hundreds of "ice pancakes". More commonly seen in the Antarctic. Foam freezes overnight developing into circular shapes as the clumps bump against each other. |
I've been a it of a lazy bones today and managed to daydream some of the day away. After a quick trip to the Co-op I sat down to do some knitting and promptly dozed off. I dislike these shameful geriatric habits that are creeping up on me.
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Whatever next? I've just read about a little "must have" that's growing in popularity. It's called a selfie stick - an extendable little pole that fits onto your smart phone enabling you to get a better angle to take a good selfie. Narcissism gone berserk - eat your heart out Dorian Gray.
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17th December 2014
Good morning - it's just after 8.00 am - we're due at the surgery for a flu jab in fifteen minutes - see you later. Back again duly jabbed - this morning a lens fell out of my specs so I called in at the opticians to have it fixed - the girl pointed out that I hadn't attended since 2010 so I'm now down for a visit on Friday and the inevitable hefty bill when it comes to choosing new specs. To sum things up - I'm a bit of a one-eyed pin cushion.
Good morning - it's just after 8.00 am - we're due at the surgery for a flu jab in fifteen minutes - see you later. Back again duly jabbed - this morning a lens fell out of my specs so I called in at the opticians to have it fixed - the girl pointed out that I hadn't attended since 2010 so I'm now down for a visit on Friday and the inevitable hefty bill when it comes to choosing new specs. To sum things up - I'm a bit of a one-eyed pin cushion.
December 17th was a high day and holiday in ancient Roman times - it is the beginning of the festival of Saturnalia which honours Saturn, the god of agriculture. The merrymaking lasted for seven days and eventually merged with the UK celebrations of Yule, Solstice and Christmas. I enjoy reading about these ancient rites and rituals - it's interesting to note that all of them, Saturnalia, Winter Solstice, Yule, etc., existed to respect the planet and the changing seasons and give thanks for the harvest. At the Winter Solstice the ancients were joyous to know that the shortest day was done and the sun would soon be warming the land. I can go along with their thinking.
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Writers' group members will be interested in this.... while I was at Birches Bridge this morning I popped into the ironmongers to see Fran. Brian (her hubby) has been very very ill with inoperable heart problems. The prognosis was scary. He deteriorated further and was offered an experimental operation. His reasoning was that he was dying anyway so he may as well go for it. He's the fourth person in the world to have undergone this procedure and whilst I can't possibly explain the medical details it involved horse tissue and pig tissue. Brian is now home and on the mend and Fran is singing the praises of the Egyptian surgeon who did the procedure at New Cross - Brian's progress is to be the subject of an item in The Lancet - he's helping make medical history. Our very best wishes to Brian and Fran. Isn't it great to hear good news about our hospitals?
Yay! I've found the missing gloves (see 15th). They were inside the handbag I'm using for the 'do'. Andrew has just popped in - we've been pondering over his Groom's speech and tweaking the table plans that Rajni and I did the other day. This wedding has presented me with a diverse range of little jobs - last week I had to taper the legs of Jay's suit to make them more fashionable. |
16th December 2014
Further to my forgetfulness mentioned yesterday - I've had an enlightening message from Ian (no 1 grandson). He says he sometimes gets labelled 'sieve brain' for forgetting things and blames me for the gene. At this point I might mention to Ian that the forgetful gene is drastically exacerbated by post-match boozing.
Message from Maggie requesting I put the carrot cake recipe on here - duly done, it's on the Recipes page. We've both been to writers' group today - last meeting this year. While we were in the library I grabbed a pile of art books in the hope of finding inspiration - one is entitled "Kandinsky" so I'm looking forwarding to wading in.
Anyone care to join me in being a fan of Wassily Kandinsky - it's his birthday today: (16 Dec 1866 - 13 Dec 1944). He was an influential Russian painter and art theorist and is credited with painting one of the first purely abstract works. I appreciate they're not everyone's cup of tea but in my book he's a true pioneer - I just love 'em.
Further to my forgetfulness mentioned yesterday - I've had an enlightening message from Ian (no 1 grandson). He says he sometimes gets labelled 'sieve brain' for forgetting things and blames me for the gene. At this point I might mention to Ian that the forgetful gene is drastically exacerbated by post-match boozing.
Message from Maggie requesting I put the carrot cake recipe on here - duly done, it's on the Recipes page. We've both been to writers' group today - last meeting this year. While we were in the library I grabbed a pile of art books in the hope of finding inspiration - one is entitled "Kandinsky" so I'm looking forwarding to wading in.
Anyone care to join me in being a fan of Wassily Kandinsky - it's his birthday today: (16 Dec 1866 - 13 Dec 1944). He was an influential Russian painter and art theorist and is credited with painting one of the first purely abstract works. I appreciate they're not everyone's cup of tea but in my book he's a true pioneer - I just love 'em.
15th December 2014
Here's something to help us forget Christmas for a moment. Today (1939) saw the premiere of the film Gone With the Wind. Do you remember the melodrama and petulance and flouncing around in big frocks. I always had a bit of a yen to do that, or at least float down a grand staircase in a crinoline type gown. Somehow the experience no longer appeals, and as Clark Gable, I mean Rhett Butler, said: "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn." |
Another snippet of news: I've got to level 93 on Candycrush. I know, groan groan, mindless rubbish, but it can't be that bad if government ministers are doing it.... on second thoughts.... maybe that does consign it to the 'dire' category.
Grrrrrrrrr: I'm driving myself mad with my geriatric muddles. Do you remember last summer when I lost the lid to the biscuit tin. I finally dumped the tin because the lid had buzzed off to the Land of Tin Lids. Well it turned up yesterday at the back of the cupboard where the biscuits live. Anyone want a lid? Hang on... there's more... A few weeks ago I bought an expensive pair of leather gloves ready for next weekend's wedding. I remember putting them away vowing not to wear them before the event - but I can't remember where I've put them - I've looked in all the sensible places they might be - Is one born illogical or does it come with age?
14th December 2014
Baked a carrot cake, baked a fruit cake, both destined for the freezer - they're "just in case" cakes. Jay called in this afternoon - Les was busy at home catching up on the paperwork relating to her work - not a very exciting way to spend Sunday afternoon. But well done Lesley for getting stuck in - it's all to do with the business of allergens and stating ingredients on her menus to meet the new legislation.
Baked a carrot cake, baked a fruit cake, both destined for the freezer - they're "just in case" cakes. Jay called in this afternoon - Les was busy at home catching up on the paperwork relating to her work - not a very exciting way to spend Sunday afternoon. But well done Lesley for getting stuck in - it's all to do with the business of allergens and stating ingredients on her menus to meet the new legislation.
13th December 2014
What a lovely sparkly Christmas Card morning. I've just been chatting with my brother and sister-in-law, Trudie. They rang for some addresses - sounds like they're in the middle of doing card mountain too. Like many of us, they've been lying low zapped by bugs and viruses - everyone seems to be a bit poorly lately - no wonder the NHS is groaning under the strain. Trudie told me that her sister, Shirley, has taken to popping in here - Hi, Shirley, welcome. Also want to say "Hi" to Audrey and Jack in Greywell (Lesley's parents) I expect Audrey is gearing up for panic mode - they have relatives arriving from Australia soon. I've bought the double issue of Radio Times today so that's my seasonal preparations sorted! |
12th December 2014
I think we're in pre-wedding/pre-Christmas limbo right now - nothing much going on. I've read that a recent survey has revealed that our Midland accent has been voted the most "ugly" in the country and is closely followed by Liverpudlian and Mancunian. I can't dispute the findings - I'm just going to have to live with it ay I?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H965m0Hkk5M Here's a video link to give you a smile. My cousin Celia sent it - her daughter lives in Germany so I'm guessing that's where it came from. It's unusual and very funny - have a peek. [Note to my brother - a persistent Philistine when it comes to computers.... left click on the blue bit.]
Feeling pretty smug now (late afternoon). I've just finished writing all our Christmas cards - signed, sealed and duly stamped. It has suddenly occurred to me that there's a bit of irony going on here... I purchased these particular cards because they support the Woodland Trust and I've used up a Himalayan size heap of them involving enough paper to destroy a forest, not to mention petrol miles of air pollution when they're delivered. Do we need to rethink the business of how we convey our Christmas greetings?
I think we're in pre-wedding/pre-Christmas limbo right now - nothing much going on. I've read that a recent survey has revealed that our Midland accent has been voted the most "ugly" in the country and is closely followed by Liverpudlian and Mancunian. I can't dispute the findings - I'm just going to have to live with it ay I?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H965m0Hkk5M Here's a video link to give you a smile. My cousin Celia sent it - her daughter lives in Germany so I'm guessing that's where it came from. It's unusual and very funny - have a peek. [Note to my brother - a persistent Philistine when it comes to computers.... left click on the blue bit.]
Feeling pretty smug now (late afternoon). I've just finished writing all our Christmas cards - signed, sealed and duly stamped. It has suddenly occurred to me that there's a bit of irony going on here... I purchased these particular cards because they support the Woodland Trust and I've used up a Himalayan size heap of them involving enough paper to destroy a forest, not to mention petrol miles of air pollution when they're delivered. Do we need to rethink the business of how we convey our Christmas greetings?
11th December 2014
I've been to art class today. We spent more time chatting than working - it was the final session. Everyone brought nibbles to share and Val had prepared some mulled wine. It's funny how conversations take off into the ridiculous.... for some strange reason we were talking about how we liked trees. Then I happened to say, if I wasn't a human I'd like to be a tree.... this inevitably led to us discussing what species of tree we'd be (maybe it was the mulled wine). I chose English Oak after toying with the idea of Silver Birch, Val decided upon a Cedar of Lebanon - the pictures are Val top right - me bottom right - what we'd look like in another life. Then I went on to the Co-op and got cross. The only skimmed milk on the shelf was dated 11th and they had rows and rows of it... not very good is it? I've just seen that today is the date of Edward VIII's abdication (1936) I bet the Royals had a less than peaceful Christmas that year - tittle-tattle below stairs and bickering over the brandy butter in the royal dining room. |
10th December 2014
Bern's braved the cold wind and gone round the garden with the gismo that gobbles up the leaves. I've no juicy gossip today and daren't mention my cold yet again so I've looked round for something more interesting. Swedish chemist Alfred Bernhard Nobel, the inventor of dynamite died on this day. He had amassed a great fortune from dynamite and his other inventions. The money was used as endowment for five prizes to be awarded annually "to those who, during the preceding year, shall have conferred the greatest benefit on mankind...." in five fields: physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace. The first Nobel Prizes were awarded on 10th December 1901 - the fifth anniversary of the founder's death. |
8th 9th December 2014
In bed - 11.30 pm on the 9th - Bern's asleep with my laptop digging into his back - luckily for me he's one of those people who can sleep on a clothesline. I didn't make it to the writers' meeting and Christmas lunch - I just couldn't risk spreading my germs in a crowded place and I'm not interested in eating at the moment. Thank you Cora and Rene for your messages - I'm pleased to hear you all had a fun time. Carol (daughter) called in this evening to nag me to go to the doctors - I'm reluctant to turn up at the surgery to complain of a bad cold but if things don't improve soon I may have to.
Jay and Lesley were here yesterday - both tired from long work shifts. Les has a mammoth task to cope with at her place of work right in the middle of the season for festive lunches and extra numbers. The new food laws have to be implemented - it's a matter of identifying ingredients and listing all allergens alongside each item on the menus. It will apply to all food outlets, packaged and non-packaged foods. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-30374732
A Coronation Street anniversary today: the first episode was broadcast in 1960 - it's now the world's longest running soap opera. Blimey, have we been watching for all that time? Ken Barlow has been in it since episode 1 - he's barely out of nappies here. Do you remember Minnie Caldwell and Ena Sharples? I can't say I've been a totally loyal viewer over all the years - I can take it or leave it.
In bed - 11.30 pm on the 9th - Bern's asleep with my laptop digging into his back - luckily for me he's one of those people who can sleep on a clothesline. I didn't make it to the writers' meeting and Christmas lunch - I just couldn't risk spreading my germs in a crowded place and I'm not interested in eating at the moment. Thank you Cora and Rene for your messages - I'm pleased to hear you all had a fun time. Carol (daughter) called in this evening to nag me to go to the doctors - I'm reluctant to turn up at the surgery to complain of a bad cold but if things don't improve soon I may have to.
Jay and Lesley were here yesterday - both tired from long work shifts. Les has a mammoth task to cope with at her place of work right in the middle of the season for festive lunches and extra numbers. The new food laws have to be implemented - it's a matter of identifying ingredients and listing all allergens alongside each item on the menus. It will apply to all food outlets, packaged and non-packaged foods. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-30374732
A Coronation Street anniversary today: the first episode was broadcast in 1960 - it's now the world's longest running soap opera. Blimey, have we been watching for all that time? Ken Barlow has been in it since episode 1 - he's barely out of nappies here. Do you remember Minnie Caldwell and Ena Sharples? I can't say I've been a totally loyal viewer over all the years - I can take it or leave it.
7th December 2014
Another lousy night but let's not dwell on it. Today I'm going to make my hat for Tuesday's Writers' Christmas Lunch meeting - I've decided on my book title but won't divulge it yet, they'll not have much trouble guessing mine, but it's all a bit of fun. We've been to Sainsbury's this morning - it was quite busy in there and the old festive musak was churning out to put shoppers in spending mode - we even had Doris Day singing something overly sentimental and Chrismassy. There must be a couple of generations now who've never heard of Doris Day - I wonder what they made of it. Must go and find glue, scissors, cardboard in aid of said hat.
Another lousy night but let's not dwell on it. Today I'm going to make my hat for Tuesday's Writers' Christmas Lunch meeting - I've decided on my book title but won't divulge it yet, they'll not have much trouble guessing mine, but it's all a bit of fun. We've been to Sainsbury's this morning - it was quite busy in there and the old festive musak was churning out to put shoppers in spending mode - we even had Doris Day singing something overly sentimental and Chrismassy. There must be a couple of generations now who've never heard of Doris Day - I wonder what they made of it. Must go and find glue, scissors, cardboard in aid of said hat.
6th December 2014
It's 5 a.m. and I've coughed myself to consciousness so what better way to pass the time than bore you rigid with the glories of my discomfort. To make matters worse my hottie-bottle is cold so it's now on the floor. Bern's fast asleep (I think) or maybe he's just pretending to discourage me from chatting at this early hour. It's dreaded window cleaner Saturday - you can bet a pound to a penny I'll be spark out by the time he comes. I've asked Bern to shove me out of bed before he gets here and if I'm immovable to pull the duvet over my head. He thinks I'm quite crackers, pointing out that the blinds are closed. But I reckon there must be a little chink somewhere that he can peer through - I'd find one were I a window cleaner. Right! Coughing fit has subsided so we can all go back to sleep. See you later...
It's 5 a.m. and I've coughed myself to consciousness so what better way to pass the time than bore you rigid with the glories of my discomfort. To make matters worse my hottie-bottle is cold so it's now on the floor. Bern's fast asleep (I think) or maybe he's just pretending to discourage me from chatting at this early hour. It's dreaded window cleaner Saturday - you can bet a pound to a penny I'll be spark out by the time he comes. I've asked Bern to shove me out of bed before he gets here and if I'm immovable to pull the duvet over my head. He thinks I'm quite crackers, pointing out that the blinds are closed. But I reckon there must be a little chink somewhere that he can peer through - I'd find one were I a window cleaner. Right! Coughing fit has subsided so we can all go back to sleep. See you later...
5th December 2014
We've had a dreadful night with both of us coughing enough to warrant a coffin. At 10.30 in the morning I feel like I need a long kip. Coffins - long sleep - er... maybe not. I'll get the dusters out instead, I might even kick-start the vacuum cleaner, anything to shake off this shroud of doom. The weather is looking unsociable, it's just started to rain, the only place to be today is indoors pretending that Christmas is sorted - I think I'll just make another list to feel like I'm being constructive and maybe sit by the fire with a cup of coffee... (I'm back again post-coffee) Maggie's left a message with some sensible thinking: "I think you should invest in one of those lamps that mimics sunshine, set it up next to a reclining chair and imagine you are somewhere warm and sunny. You may even get Bern to feed you grapes or better still - chocolate!!!!"
We've had a dreadful night with both of us coughing enough to warrant a coffin. At 10.30 in the morning I feel like I need a long kip. Coffins - long sleep - er... maybe not. I'll get the dusters out instead, I might even kick-start the vacuum cleaner, anything to shake off this shroud of doom. The weather is looking unsociable, it's just started to rain, the only place to be today is indoors pretending that Christmas is sorted - I think I'll just make another list to feel like I'm being constructive and maybe sit by the fire with a cup of coffee... (I'm back again post-coffee) Maggie's left a message with some sensible thinking: "I think you should invest in one of those lamps that mimics sunshine, set it up next to a reclining chair and imagine you are somewhere warm and sunny. You may even get Bern to feed you grapes or better still - chocolate!!!!"
3rd - 4th December 2014
Oops! I've just received a text from Carol, she wants to know why there's been no blog for a day or so. Time to start waffling... I managed to get myself and my kit out of the house in time for art class this morning. The Muse was not with me and my work is safely hidden from sight in the depths of the dustbin. Christmas approaches at breakneck speed and I haven't yet purchased cards - I wonder if, when I do, they'll make it to the post in time. I've got as far as updating and printing off last years list so I can say it's all in hand, sort of pending. Thank goodness for lists stored on my computer. |
I looked out of the window yesterday evening and saw a mighty migraine happening down the block. I go into Bah Humbug mode when I see lurid flashing lights in great quantity - I sometimes suffer migraines accompanied by flashing lights and such frenzied displays remind me of unpleasant moments; and not only that, I find them excruciatingly tacky and 'tacky' should be banned. Feel free to consult me if you want to become a kill-joy in one easy lesson.
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I sometimes see an old lady nearby who walks her dog while riding a mobility scooter (the lady not the dog). Bern went one better today - he was out doing some deliveries for Gary (son-in-law) and in a quiet country lane he saw a chap driving very slowly in a sleek BMW with a large dog on a lead trotting alongside the car. I wonder if the dog has been trained to open its own tins of dog food.
I'm typing this in bed - Bern has just asked me if it's likely that the day will arrive when there's no room for him in bed. I think he alludes to the laptop, box of tissues, i-Pad, telly clicker, Strepsils throat sweets, handbag, Radio Times that surround me. Somehow he manages to sleep despite my junk and constant shuffling. Oh, forgot to mention my hottie-bottle, he doesn't like it near him so we're three in a bed, hottie-bottle and Bern with me in the middle plus all my stuff. Just going to do a game of Candy Crush before I put the light out and the radio earphones in. In case you're wondering, I'm on level 92 of Candy Crush (stupid game). Night-night.
I'm typing this in bed - Bern has just asked me if it's likely that the day will arrive when there's no room for him in bed. I think he alludes to the laptop, box of tissues, i-Pad, telly clicker, Strepsils throat sweets, handbag, Radio Times that surround me. Somehow he manages to sleep despite my junk and constant shuffling. Oh, forgot to mention my hottie-bottle, he doesn't like it near him so we're three in a bed, hottie-bottle and Bern with me in the middle plus all my stuff. Just going to do a game of Candy Crush before I put the light out and the radio earphones in. In case you're wondering, I'm on level 92 of Candy Crush (stupid game). Night-night.
2nd December 2014
When I look out of the window I see lines of washing everywhere - mine's out too. We've had Black Friday, Cyber Monday, now it must be Laundry Tuesday and a stiff cold breeze is doing the bizz. Writers' group today - I'll have to sidle in and utter my apologies - I've missed two weeks (or maybe three) and it feels like I've not attended for ages. I'll regain a bit of cred for having completed the 2015 Spring Term programme - it's all ready for handing out today.
I'm back home from Writers' meeting within the hour - there was just nowhere to park. I hovered around for a while along with a few others who were driving round hoping to squeeze into a non-existent corner - being a contender in the race for a car parking space must surely be the best way to cause annoyance. I just gave up and went home.
When I look out of the window I see lines of washing everywhere - mine's out too. We've had Black Friday, Cyber Monday, now it must be Laundry Tuesday and a stiff cold breeze is doing the bizz. Writers' group today - I'll have to sidle in and utter my apologies - I've missed two weeks (or maybe three) and it feels like I've not attended for ages. I'll regain a bit of cred for having completed the 2015 Spring Term programme - it's all ready for handing out today.
I'm back home from Writers' meeting within the hour - there was just nowhere to park. I hovered around for a while along with a few others who were driving round hoping to squeeze into a non-existent corner - being a contender in the race for a car parking space must surely be the best way to cause annoyance. I just gave up and went home.
1st December 2014
White rabbits - pinch punch - blah blah... at last I can say the 'C' word and stop growling every time a Christmas advert comes on the telly. Maybe I'll even suffer the musak in the shops that's known to set me snarling. We're still knee deep in tissues and sore throats and generally keeping out of everyone's way for fear of being guilty of germ warfare. You must understand I don't do germs and bacteria so this is trauma for me - I even sanitize my keyboard after every sneeze - the anti-bac wipes are pretty busy just now. Is your Internet slow today? The world and his dog are online because it's Cyber Monday - first two Mondays in December are besieged by click-happy shoppers grabbing last minute stuff after Black Friday. The world's gone bloody mad. |
28th November 2014
Today the media are banging on about Black Friday - another little mystery. I think It's something we've inherited from the US. Years ago Black Friday meant disappointing happenings at the stock exchange. In the US they hold shopping events around the time of their Thanksgiving celebrations and now the idea has caught on here and it all goes on under the heading of 'Black Friday'. It looks like bargain hunters are prepared to do anything to acquire cut-price goods and it carries on through the night. We all love a bargain, but when the Police have to be called to keep greedy grabbers in order, that's beyond the pale. It's happening in cyberspace too - I've just read that several big name websites have had a bit of a wobble as cyber-shoppers hurtle in at the click of a mouse. Bern's a bit under the weather today, he's all a-shiver with a nasty cold, cough and sore throat - here's hoping it doesn't have my name on it too. Denise and Maggie have left encouraging comments about BJ's Youtube video (see yesterday). |
27th November 2014
I opted out of art class this morning - my assortment of aches and pains kept me awake and I just couldn't get myslef and my kit out of the door in time today. I bet you think I have an A-level in "Moaning for the Afflicted". I tootled out to the shops eventually and feel fine now. I had an e-mail from BJ this morning - he's one of the newer members of our writers' group. I'm a bit in awe of him as he's a full-time successful writer. He's been experimenting with film-making by writing and directing mini-videos which he posts on Youtube - here's a link to the one I've just watched. I believe there's more in the pipeline. http://youtu.be/ah1JbYOk6c8 I think the young actress did well in this piece.
I opted out of art class this morning - my assortment of aches and pains kept me awake and I just couldn't get myslef and my kit out of the door in time today. I bet you think I have an A-level in "Moaning for the Afflicted". I tootled out to the shops eventually and feel fine now. I had an e-mail from BJ this morning - he's one of the newer members of our writers' group. I'm a bit in awe of him as he's a full-time successful writer. He's been experimenting with film-making by writing and directing mini-videos which he posts on Youtube - here's a link to the one I've just watched. I believe there's more in the pipeline. http://youtu.be/ah1JbYOk6c8 I think the young actress did well in this piece.
25th - 26th November 2014
For the first time ever, I failed to switch the computer on yesterday so my apologies if you popped in - I felt a bit rubbish and didn't make it to the writers' meeting, but I'm OK today. Hope you are all right and managing to avoid the winter coughs and colds that are so prevalent at the moment. More bathroom news - the blind is back in situ and the new heater has been fitted - it's beginning to feel quite civilized. The lavatory lid is one of the fancy self-closing things and we have to remember not to shut it down manually - you're supposed to wait for it close itself - it's like watching a big yawn in reverse - mind you, I think it looks like a sort of laughing loo but I don't know what it has to laugh about with us two oldies to contend with. |
26th November 1983 - gold bullion worth £26m was stolen from a warehouse at Heathrow Airport - most of the gold has still not been recovered. I'd forgotten about that - somebody is sitting pretty - who said crime doesn't pay?
Have you given in and resorted to a hottie-bottle yet? Mine came out last night for the first time this winter - I had to chuck it out of bed later as I was too warm, there's no pleasing me these days. Having woken up at an unearthly hour I grabbed my earphones and listened to Paul Temple on DAB radio. Hearing the Temples' "Noel-Coward-like" vowels took me back years when we used to listen to it on the wireless in the forties and fifties and at the time found it quite gripping. In today's world it seems pretty naff but I always liked the signature tune which they still use. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b03pc96p/episodes/player Here's a link if you fancy listening to a few episodes.
24th November 2014
Late again - I gave myself a good talking to and did some housework, I shifted mountains of dust and even gave the furniture polish some exercise. Now I feel quite noble and can chat without a pang of guilt despite having hidden a large pile of ironing in the under-stairs cupboard. I've just a had a quick nose round Facebook to see what my friends are up to and found that Denise has been wrapping 'C' presents and writing the tags. Well done on the efficiency front Denise. I did my bah humbug thing yesterday and growled at the 'C' musak that was belting out in House of Fraser. I haven't done a single thing about 'C' yet - not a card, tag, or even a bauble - I'll hit the panic button when December arrives.
This morning's wall to wall sunshine is rather nice isn't it? Now for an "oh dear" - I've done no homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting - I'm not even sure I can go as the plumber is coming. Sorry - I hardly dare mention pipes but we've sprung a leak - it never (d)rains but what it pores!
Late again - I gave myself a good talking to and did some housework, I shifted mountains of dust and even gave the furniture polish some exercise. Now I feel quite noble and can chat without a pang of guilt despite having hidden a large pile of ironing in the under-stairs cupboard. I've just a had a quick nose round Facebook to see what my friends are up to and found that Denise has been wrapping 'C' presents and writing the tags. Well done on the efficiency front Denise. I did my bah humbug thing yesterday and growled at the 'C' musak that was belting out in House of Fraser. I haven't done a single thing about 'C' yet - not a card, tag, or even a bauble - I'll hit the panic button when December arrives.
This morning's wall to wall sunshine is rather nice isn't it? Now for an "oh dear" - I've done no homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting - I'm not even sure I can go as the plumber is coming. Sorry - I hardly dare mention pipes but we've sprung a leak - it never (d)rains but what it pores!
23rd November 2014
My little book that tells me everything says it's St Clement's day today. He's the patron saint of blacksmiths and hatters. I never quite understand the patron saint thing - they get lumbered with such an incongruous mix of things to be saintly about. What have blacksmiths and hatters in common? I'm bemused.
My little book that tells me everything says it's St Clement's day today. He's the patron saint of blacksmiths and hatters. I never quite understand the patron saint thing - they get lumbered with such an incongruous mix of things to be saintly about. What have blacksmiths and hatters in common? I'm bemused.
A "first" for today, 23rd November, is the British pillar box. It was green and erected Jersey in 1852. This is it (left) quite a gloomy old thing when compared with the familiar red ones. I've been flitting round cyberspace reading about pillar boxes and letter boxes and discovered that there is actually an official Letterbox Study Group - you'll find them at http://www.lbsg.org/ - there's more info at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pillar_box O.K. so I'm being nerdy, but I bet you'll be feeding a jolly red one one with 'C' mail in about four weeks time. Where would be without them? We could start a "love your letterbox" day - STAMP it on the face of future - for POSTerity.
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22nd November 2014
There's nothing much happening today... I find there's always a bit of a doldrums towards the end of November - we haven't quite reached the frenzy of 'C' shopping but the dark days are creeping in and putting a damper on things... it's a sort of pre-'C' limbo, the calm before the storm... that sort of thing. And it strikes me that I'm waffling so I'll be back later when I've something sensible to say. Just in case my cousin pops in, Happy Birthday Cecelia, have a great day.
There's nothing much happening today... I find there's always a bit of a doldrums towards the end of November - we haven't quite reached the frenzy of 'C' shopping but the dark days are creeping in and putting a damper on things... it's a sort of pre-'C' limbo, the calm before the storm... that sort of thing. And it strikes me that I'm waffling so I'll be back later when I've something sensible to say. Just in case my cousin pops in, Happy Birthday Cecelia, have a great day.
21st November 2014
I've been brain racking this morning, trying to compile the Spring term programme for Codsall Writers. It has to be interesting, challenging, diverse, inspiring, and please everyone. I've only four more exercises to create so it's well on the way to completion. It's feeling quite cool this morning - the wind is coming from ESE - no wonder. Even the trees look cold - our flowering cherry is looking shivery with only six leaves hanging on for dear life - very pretty colours though. |
20th November 2014
Carol phoned to say Andy's knee op went well - they're removed some loose cartilage that was floating around and he can't drive for a few days. As long as he can hobble up the aisle next month there's nowt to worry about. I'm off to art class now - see you later.
Good gracious, is it that time? I bet you thought I'd forgotten to come back. I've had one of those mornings - like the dream when you never quite get there. I used to dream that I was at the bus stop in my nightie and rush back home. Then return to the bus stop to find myself wearing slippers... rush back home... and on it goes ad nauseam. Today I arrived at the village hall to find I'd forgotten my brushes and someone else had forgotten coffee so I dashed home again for brushes, milk and coffee. I finally settled down to follow Roland's instruction to do a dark dramatic sky. I managed an uninspiring inky daub so scraped it all off and started again. I now have a sky that I'm unhappy with so it will have to come off yet again. It's in oil so I can scrape it off and paint over the residual mess - the canvas won't be wasted. An unproductive morning with me going round in circles on several counts. Then I went to the Co-op to see if they had the boiled sweets I like - the shelf was empty so I had to settle for mints. It's not my day is it? Anyway, while I was mooning round the shelves I bumped into Daisy White (she's Daisy Charlesworth these days and lives on Birches Bridge). I've known her since my early years at St Nicholas Junior School next to Codsall church. We stood talking for ages while shoppers who were after Branston Pickles reached round us. Our conversation covered scrumping apples, outside lavatories, mangles, and the days when Daisy's Mum was the village post-lady, so you can see how far back we go.
Carol phoned to say Andy's knee op went well - they're removed some loose cartilage that was floating around and he can't drive for a few days. As long as he can hobble up the aisle next month there's nowt to worry about. I'm off to art class now - see you later.
Good gracious, is it that time? I bet you thought I'd forgotten to come back. I've had one of those mornings - like the dream when you never quite get there. I used to dream that I was at the bus stop in my nightie and rush back home. Then return to the bus stop to find myself wearing slippers... rush back home... and on it goes ad nauseam. Today I arrived at the village hall to find I'd forgotten my brushes and someone else had forgotten coffee so I dashed home again for brushes, milk and coffee. I finally settled down to follow Roland's instruction to do a dark dramatic sky. I managed an uninspiring inky daub so scraped it all off and started again. I now have a sky that I'm unhappy with so it will have to come off yet again. It's in oil so I can scrape it off and paint over the residual mess - the canvas won't be wasted. An unproductive morning with me going round in circles on several counts. Then I went to the Co-op to see if they had the boiled sweets I like - the shelf was empty so I had to settle for mints. It's not my day is it? Anyway, while I was mooning round the shelves I bumped into Daisy White (she's Daisy Charlesworth these days and lives on Birches Bridge). I've known her since my early years at St Nicholas Junior School next to Codsall church. We stood talking for ages while shoppers who were after Branston Pickles reached round us. Our conversation covered scrumping apples, outside lavatories, mangles, and the days when Daisy's Mum was the village post-lady, so you can see how far back we go.
19th November 2014
It's arrived - a reminder that the season is almost upon us but I'm still not going to utter the word until December. Yes - we've received our first 'C' card. It's a lovely sparkly one from my friend Peggy in Australia. We've been mates since I was 15 and started my first job at Boulton Paul (which later became Dowty). We attended night school and muddled through our teenage years together. Peggy and John have been down under for over 40 years now. I've put it on the shelf to await some companions. |
I was flipping through an old notebook recently and found this item I'd cut from The Independent in November 98. It's a copy of a letter which appeared in the press on November 19th 1899.
Raymond Asquith writing to his father from Balliol College, Oxford...
"On Wednesday our rugby team played King's, Cambridge; after which they had a big dinner at 5pm and both teams were desperately drunk by half past 6: they made hay of the quad, which irritated our dons, brawled in the streets, which drew down the Proctors on them, and are also being prosecuted by the South Western Railway for wrecking a train and assaulting porters at the station: three men have been sent down and the rest gated." (Ian Irvine)
So what's new then? The behaviour we moan about now was already happening way back and it wasn't just the plebs.
Raymond Asquith writing to his father from Balliol College, Oxford...
"On Wednesday our rugby team played King's, Cambridge; after which they had a big dinner at 5pm and both teams were desperately drunk by half past 6: they made hay of the quad, which irritated our dons, brawled in the streets, which drew down the Proctors on them, and are also being prosecuted by the South Western Railway for wrecking a train and assaulting porters at the station: three men have been sent down and the rest gated." (Ian Irvine)
So what's new then? The behaviour we moan about now was already happening way back and it wasn't just the plebs.
18th November 2014
You won't have to put up with pipe and plughole stories for much longer - Brian is here this morning to connect the loo and wash basin - so we're nearly done and I'll be glad to see the end of this flipping soap opera... oops 'soap' (groans all round). It's touch and go whether I'll make the writers' meeting - it all depends on Brian. I've had a quick check and work actually started before October was out so it's getting on for a month of inconvenience to acquire a new 'convenience' if you see what I mean.
You won't have to put up with pipe and plughole stories for much longer - Brian is here this morning to connect the loo and wash basin - so we're nearly done and I'll be glad to see the end of this flipping soap opera... oops 'soap' (groans all round). It's touch and go whether I'll make the writers' meeting - it all depends on Brian. I've had a quick check and work actually started before October was out so it's getting on for a month of inconvenience to acquire a new 'convenience' if you see what I mean.
I've found an interesting snippet relating to today's date. English printer, William Caxton (circa 1422-1492) published his first dated the book on 18th November 1477 - "The dictes or sayengis of the philosophres". Sounds like a riveting reading - and incidentally, I've not ordered a copy. Caxton was an English merchant, diplomat, writer and printer. He is thought to be the first English person to work as a printer and the first to introduce a printing press into England which he did in 1476. He was also the first English retailer of printed books. In 2002 he was named as one of the 100 greatest Britons in a BBC poll. Among the books he printed were Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales', Gower's 'Confession Amantis' and Malory's 'Le Morte d'Arthur'. He printed more than 100 books in his lifetime, books which were known for their craftsmanship and careful editing. He was also the translator of many of the books he published, using his knowledge of French, Latin and Dutch. He was a right old clever clogs, but what an important contribution he made to England. A chap at writers' group has tackled Le Morte d'Arthur and he said it's quite a difficult read - you have to work at it.
[Later] I've just downloaded Le Morte d'Arthur via the Kindle App on my iPad. You can get a FREE version at Amazon Kindle Shop. Oops! Rene sent an e-mail alerting me to the fact that I'd moved us into December this morning - rest assured we're back in November. Senior moment!
[Later] I've just downloaded Le Morte d'Arthur via the Kindle App on my iPad. You can get a FREE version at Amazon Kindle Shop. Oops! Rene sent an e-mail alerting me to the fact that I'd moved us into December this morning - rest assured we're back in November. Senior moment!
17th November 2014
We had a fab time yesterday - although one or two fainted when Jay and Les were not the last to turn up. Pretty much a first for them - we all know it's best to lie about the start time, making out it's half an hour earlier, when inviting them to a do. Bern and I arrived early so we could look round the art gallery above the restaurant. An engaging exhibition by Dea Paradisos (ends 26th Nov). Mixed media work using an unusual process of combining photography and paint with interesting results. www.deaparadisos.co.uk
We had a fab time yesterday - although one or two fainted when Jay and Les were not the last to turn up. Pretty much a first for them - we all know it's best to lie about the start time, making out it's half an hour earlier, when inviting them to a do. Bern and I arrived early so we could look round the art gallery above the restaurant. An engaging exhibition by Dea Paradisos (ends 26th Nov). Mixed media work using an unusual process of combining photography and paint with interesting results. www.deaparadisos.co.uk
Today's morsal of history: 17th November 1869 - after ten years in construction the Suez Canal was opened to shipping. It directly linked the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea reducing the journey to India by 4,3000 miles. In 1960 Bern was on HMS Centaur and they went to the Persian Gulf via the Suez Canal - he said the ship had to travel very very slowly to prevent the ship's wake damaging the canal banks.
16th November 2014
Oh wow! Awesome showering at our house. Just in time too - we're socialising today and can turn up clean and civilised. Every year Bern treats the family to a pre-Chrimbo lunch. We have a table for twelve at Weston Park Granary Restaurant today. We're having to do it earlier this year as this is the only date we could gather them together. Jay and Les have work duty weekends to fit in, then there's the wedding looming, plus Andy's Op etc. I'll try to get some pics to show you - some of them get grumpy when my camera comes out because they know they'll end up as front page news right here.
Oh wow! Awesome showering at our house. Just in time too - we're socialising today and can turn up clean and civilised. Every year Bern treats the family to a pre-Chrimbo lunch. We have a table for twelve at Weston Park Granary Restaurant today. We're having to do it earlier this year as this is the only date we could gather them together. Jay and Les have work duty weekends to fit in, then there's the wedding looming, plus Andy's Op etc. I'll try to get some pics to show you - some of them get grumpy when my camera comes out because they know they'll end up as front page news right here.
14th November 2014
I'm here early this morning - 8.00 am and already Duncan is smiling and tiling in the bathroom - goodness knows what time he had to get up on this gloomy, wet morning, he's from over the border in Derbyshire. ,
Later...... The sun's out now and the world looks a better place. This little fact made me smile: on this date in 1896 the British speed limited was increased 4 mph to 14 mph - you just have to say WOW! They held a race from London to Brighton to celebrate the event and called it the 'Emancipation Run'. (Crikey - what dare devils). This later became the London to Brighton Car Rally. I reckon they'd have been quicker on roller skates.
I'm here early this morning - 8.00 am and already Duncan is smiling and tiling in the bathroom - goodness knows what time he had to get up on this gloomy, wet morning, he's from over the border in Derbyshire. ,
Later...... The sun's out now and the world looks a better place. This little fact made me smile: on this date in 1896 the British speed limited was increased 4 mph to 14 mph - you just have to say WOW! They held a race from London to Brighton to celebrate the event and called it the 'Emancipation Run'. (Crikey - what dare devils). This later became the London to Brighton Car Rally. I reckon they'd have been quicker on roller skates.
13th November 2014
What shall we talk about today? I have a head full of nothing a the moment. Up early, downed some toast and now I'm on tea duty as Duncan is here mixing gunge and cutting tiles - a new chapter in the bathroom saga. I've been contemplating the satellite that's landed on a comet - what a feat - it took me a little time to get my head round the concept of distance involved and a travelling time of ten years - way beyond my comprehension. It looks more like a little gnat to me. |
I've been flicking through my books and have just read that the aircraft-carrier HMS Ark Royal was torpedoed on today's date in 1941 - it was 30 miles off Gibraltar and attempts were made to tow it into port but it sank the following day. My Dad was on that ship when it went down - he spoke very little about his wartime experiences, as small children we were aware of his terrible nightmares and knew that we had to say nothing. Ark Royal's most notorious action was the key role she played in hunting down the battleship Bismarck in May 1941. Her Swordfish torpedo bombers crippled the German battleship, allowing Admiral Tovey's force to engage and sink her. Ark Royal then resumed her operations with Force H in the Mediterranean, but on 13 November 1941 she was torpedoed and sunk by U-81 near Gibraltar. Dad survived the same experience on two more aircraft-carriers before the war ended - HMS Victorious and HMS Eagle. No wonder he had nightmares. I guess we would now call it post traumatic stress and counselling help would be prescribed.
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12th November 2014
So sorry I didn't return as promised yesterday. The birthday visit ended up as a marathon yakking session - we raked over the past, dragging up long-forgotten memories. A totally geriatric pastime - all prompted by my brother bringing out a family book, written by a distant relative in Canada, detailing our family tree. It only goes back to the early 1800s but it was enough to fuel the gossip.
Moving on to bathroom matters (yet again - sorry). Duncan, the tiler, rang yesterday evening. He can't come today after all and will be here on Thursday. (Fingers crossed for tomorrow then). Just one more little delay - hey ho! Now I have to apologise to Roland for missing tomorrow's art class.
So sorry I didn't return as promised yesterday. The birthday visit ended up as a marathon yakking session - we raked over the past, dragging up long-forgotten memories. A totally geriatric pastime - all prompted by my brother bringing out a family book, written by a distant relative in Canada, detailing our family tree. It only goes back to the early 1800s but it was enough to fuel the gossip.
Moving on to bathroom matters (yet again - sorry). Duncan, the tiler, rang yesterday evening. He can't come today after all and will be here on Thursday. (Fingers crossed for tomorrow then). Just one more little delay - hey ho! Now I have to apologise to Roland for missing tomorrow's art class.
The Reverend Chad Varah was born on this day in 1911 - he's the guy who set up the Samaritans telephone service for the suicidal and despairing. I only mention this because I caught sight of it when flicking through one of my books of stuff - don't worry, I'm not about to bother them with our bathroom trauma.
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11th November 2014
As I type this we're just minutes away from the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month... we will remember them.
I'm going to miss the writers' meeting today. Maybe it's fortuitous as I haven't done my homework (hangs head in shame). I'll be visiting my brother in Fordhouses it his birthday today and we always do visits on birthdays. Back later.
As I type this we're just minutes away from the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month... we will remember them.
I'm going to miss the writers' meeting today. Maybe it's fortuitous as I haven't done my homework (hangs head in shame). I'll be visiting my brother in Fordhouses it his birthday today and we always do visits on birthdays. Back later.
10th November 2014
You must be bored rigid by now with bathroom stuff - Brian's due again mid-morning to box in a pipe before the tiler comes on Wednesday - plaster is 99% dried out.
You must be bored rigid by now with bathroom stuff - Brian's due again mid-morning to box in a pipe before the tiler comes on Wednesday - plaster is 99% dried out.
Grab yourself some nice cheap yarn in jolly colours. I trawl the Internet for bargains (Deramores is a good website and once you've purchased from them they give you discount on following orders.)
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Just in case, like me, you're incarcerated for a month or so waiting in for workmen here's how to pass the time when you're fed up with vacuuming and dusting - a complete waste of time with chaps traipsing in and out - repetitive tea-making begins to pall too so you might like to have a go at one of these. This time I'm using aran weight and with a chunky 5.00mm hook it grows quickly. The yarn is acrylic - cheaper than wool - yes I'm afraid it's another blanket. I think it has a bit of folky, ethnic look in these colourful stripes - I'm just heading for the halfway mark.
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Do you remember all the fuss about the D H Lawrence novel - Lady Chatterley's Lover? Despite having first been published in 1928 (in Florence) the unabridged edition didn't reach England's book shops until 10th November 1960. The first run of 200,000 copies sold out by the end of the day. This was following a court case of October 1960 when publisher Penguin Books went on trial at the Old Bailey for publishing 'obscene' material. Penguin ultimately won the case and we were "allowed" to read the cause of all the fuss. All pretty tame if you ask me when you consider today's happenings. Penguin Books' triumph was considered a landmark victory in the fight against censorship. I suppose some might think this a bad thing but we all have choices to read, watch, listen to what suits us. There's always the "OFF" switch if you don't like it. Mind you, it does mean that p-p-p-picking up a penguin has connotations of things more risque to go with your choccy biscuits.
9th November 2014
We finally managed to get out to shop today - Sainsury's on a Sunday - shocking! How times have changed - I remember when mother wouldn't let us play in the street on a Sunday. I've heard others talk about not being allowed to knit or do washing on Sundays. But there's no point in living in the past - I just go with the flow these days. [Except in our bathroom - nothing much flows in there at the moment.] However, one thing is functioning, the shower tray plughole. Praise be for plugholes - despite no shower screen or tiles we can at least achieve a semblance of cleanliness. I'll not relate the graphic details but we can have a sort of all over wash with the help of a buckets of warm water - I'll leave the rest to your imagination.
I thought you might like a last look at the ceramic poppies installation at the Tower of London before it gets dismantled. I understand that part of it will go on permanent exhibition in the Imperial War Museum. I think it's spectacular and a fitting tribute.
We finally managed to get out to shop today - Sainsury's on a Sunday - shocking! How times have changed - I remember when mother wouldn't let us play in the street on a Sunday. I've heard others talk about not being allowed to knit or do washing on Sundays. But there's no point in living in the past - I just go with the flow these days. [Except in our bathroom - nothing much flows in there at the moment.] However, one thing is functioning, the shower tray plughole. Praise be for plugholes - despite no shower screen or tiles we can at least achieve a semblance of cleanliness. I'll not relate the graphic details but we can have a sort of all over wash with the help of a buckets of warm water - I'll leave the rest to your imagination.
I thought you might like a last look at the ceramic poppies installation at the Tower of London before it gets dismantled. I understand that part of it will go on permanent exhibition in the Imperial War Museum. I think it's spectacular and a fitting tribute.
8th November 2014
Relentless rain again to dampen our spirits. I hope it improves by tomorrow - I'm thinking of all the servicemen and women who will be taking part in tomorrow's Cenotaph ceremony.
Brian is here this morning working on the bathroom - he's putting down a new section of floor and it looks like he'll be installing the shower tray - it's such a big heavy thing Jay has come over to help get it upstairs. It won't be operational just yet as the tiler isn't coming until Wednesday but at least we have a modicum of progress. I reckon after all this fuss we'll have to have a commissioning ceremony, an official opening, cutting of ribbon and a speech by the Mayor.
Relentless rain again to dampen our spirits. I hope it improves by tomorrow - I'm thinking of all the servicemen and women who will be taking part in tomorrow's Cenotaph ceremony.
Brian is here this morning working on the bathroom - he's putting down a new section of floor and it looks like he'll be installing the shower tray - it's such a big heavy thing Jay has come over to help get it upstairs. It won't be operational just yet as the tiler isn't coming until Wednesday but at least we have a modicum of progress. I reckon after all this fuss we'll have to have a commissioning ceremony, an official opening, cutting of ribbon and a speech by the Mayor.
Sorry Mags, sorry Carol: I've had a text message from both with identical wording "No blog?". I blame the weather - I'm behind with everything today and I keep getting waylaid by radio programmes and when I stop to listen I just happen to pick up my crochet (yet another blanket, crazy I know). I've also been tidying my desk - sorting through a vast collection of bits of paper, notes I've written which on later inspection seem quite meaningless. Carol's feeling a bit of the hooks with a sore throat - I've suggested she treats herself to a mollycoddle weekend.
Someone mentioned that my favourite film is on TV this weekend - Saturday I think - The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. If you've not yet seen it, I recommend you give it a go. You know, this damp weather isn't helping our bathroom plaster dry out. Damn! I'd almost got through the day without mentioning bathroom and now I've gone a spoiled it.
Someone mentioned that my favourite film is on TV this weekend - Saturday I think - The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. If you've not yet seen it, I recommend you give it a go. You know, this damp weather isn't helping our bathroom plaster dry out. Damn! I'd almost got through the day without mentioning bathroom and now I've gone a spoiled it.
6th November 2014
Brr... the little puddle on the garage roof is iced over so brrr again. It's art class morning and as usual I'm devoid of ideas and still haven't come up with something for my 'C' card. You know this 'C' thing is catching on - friends wishing to mention something about 'it' refer to 'it' as 'C' in my presence, even Bern's doing it. 'C' could mean anything couldn't it? Maybe it's be start of something Cool, Calm and Colossal or just Crazy and Calamitous. I didn't mean to digress, back to arty matters - I've stuffed a few things in my bag to practise with this morning - holly, 'C' baubles, fir cones. Maybe I'll just draw them this morning or try watercolour. Trouble is I end up lugging that much stuff I can hardly get myself out of the door. Must go and drag my bag to car.... back later. xxx
Brr... the little puddle on the garage roof is iced over so brrr again. It's art class morning and as usual I'm devoid of ideas and still haven't come up with something for my 'C' card. You know this 'C' thing is catching on - friends wishing to mention something about 'it' refer to 'it' as 'C' in my presence, even Bern's doing it. 'C' could mean anything couldn't it? Maybe it's be start of something Cool, Calm and Colossal or just Crazy and Calamitous. I didn't mean to digress, back to arty matters - I've stuffed a few things in my bag to practise with this morning - holly, 'C' baubles, fir cones. Maybe I'll just draw them this morning or try watercolour. Trouble is I end up lugging that much stuff I can hardly get myself out of the door. Must go and drag my bag to car.... back later. xxx
Back to the bathroom - a nice young man called Adam is here this morning to do the plastering - at last a move in the right direction. I can hear him measuring and muttering and clunking about - music to my ears, the sounds of progress.
4th November 2014
Oh dear - I'm so sorry to bore you with the unsavoury saga of our bathroom business but it has taken over my life; it rules the roost, calls the tune, and gives me nightmares. We chased up the floor man yesterday and he can't come until the 17th. Plumber Brian wants the floor covering down before he fits the new loo - this means we have to endure another long fortnight of insanitary insanity. Oh well, as my Mum used to say... worse things happen at sea.
Writers' meeting today - I managed to squeeze out a bit of homework - nothing mind-blowing though. Did you see the frost this morning? Winter is creeping in and the birds are on a feeding frenzy trying to fatten themselves up.
Oh dear - I'm so sorry to bore you with the unsavoury saga of our bathroom business but it has taken over my life; it rules the roost, calls the tune, and gives me nightmares. We chased up the floor man yesterday and he can't come until the 17th. Plumber Brian wants the floor covering down before he fits the new loo - this means we have to endure another long fortnight of insanitary insanity. Oh well, as my Mum used to say... worse things happen at sea.
Writers' meeting today - I managed to squeeze out a bit of homework - nothing mind-blowing though. Did you see the frost this morning? Winter is creeping in and the birds are on a feeding frenzy trying to fatten themselves up.
Whilst browsing through one of my books of stuff you don't really need to know, I noticed that on 4th November 1922 Howard Carter discovered the steps leading to King Tutankhamun's tomb. It's an issue I've often pondered but not actually leapt onto my soapbox about - I wonder what would happen if foreigners came to this country in a gung-ho manner wearing their pith helmets and khaki shorts to do some grave robbing and disturbing the dead.
3rd November 2014
Plumber Brian is here again - you know how one little job leads to another - well it appears when the bath was removed rotten floorboards were uncovered so things are delayed whilst floor repairs are carried out. (I groan inwardly having plastered my face with a fixed smile and made cups of tea). I expect our adjoining neighbours are getting pretty fed up too - they've had several days of clanging and banging. I feel duty bound to make suitably apologetic noises. |
2nd November 2014
What can I do except moan - I've had better days - and to cap it all it's raining. Upstairs bathroom is now stripped, looking stark and about as hospitable as the far-flung wastelands of outer Mongolia. Anything that comes under the heading of 'ablutions' has to be performed in the downstairs loo - a Houdini sort of exercise as the available space one has to manoeuvre is approximate to the volumetric dimensions of an Oxo cube. The back garden is looking picturesque with an assortment of garden ornaments i.e. discarded sanitary ware including an upturned bath, complimented by multitudinous broken tiles bagged and bound ready for the tip - aesthetically arranged of course. We also have an art installation comprising pipes, fitting and general demolition detritus forming a major mound in the style of those artists who manage to grab the Turner Prize. I'd better switch off - plumber Brian has just arrived - if he peeps over my shoulder he might catch a glimpse of my ungrateful wailing.
What can I do except moan - I've had better days - and to cap it all it's raining. Upstairs bathroom is now stripped, looking stark and about as hospitable as the far-flung wastelands of outer Mongolia. Anything that comes under the heading of 'ablutions' has to be performed in the downstairs loo - a Houdini sort of exercise as the available space one has to manoeuvre is approximate to the volumetric dimensions of an Oxo cube. The back garden is looking picturesque with an assortment of garden ornaments i.e. discarded sanitary ware including an upturned bath, complimented by multitudinous broken tiles bagged and bound ready for the tip - aesthetically arranged of course. We also have an art installation comprising pipes, fitting and general demolition detritus forming a major mound in the style of those artists who manage to grab the Turner Prize. I'd better switch off - plumber Brian has just arrived - if he peeps over my shoulder he might catch a glimpse of my ungrateful wailing.
Back again - I've just spoken with Carol in Shrewsbury. Andy and Raj held their Stag and Hen Night yesterday The girls had a sleepover at Carol's place in Shrewsbury following a man-free evening dining and doing their Hen Night clucking. The blokes kipped down at Jay and Lesley's house in Pattingham. Any late morning traffic rush today will be due to my lot traversing the county border. All of which reminds me, I still need to find something to wear for the big day.
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1st November 2014
White Rabbits! Pinch punch - first of the month! Time to drag out the Thomas Hood poem that begins.... "No sun - no moon!
No morn - no noon - No dawn - no dusk - no proper time of day...." It always comes to mind when November arrives. The family are quite fed of up of me waving this one about every November first. And I'm thinking I haven't started repeating myself (yet) in the customary manner of old ladies - does the November poem count? I'm still on my 'C' knitting projects - one down and one nearly half-way - they'll be done in good time for wrapping up. Brian (plumber) has just arrived so I'll buzz off for now. It's good-bye bath day. Better fill something with water too in case he has to turn it off.
We had a visit from Ian and Jenny this evening - they came to invite us for Christmas Lunch - isn't that lovely? We shall look forward to it. Just realised I've broken my own rule and mentioned the 'C' word - oh dear, so sorry.
White Rabbits! Pinch punch - first of the month! Time to drag out the Thomas Hood poem that begins.... "No sun - no moon!
No morn - no noon - No dawn - no dusk - no proper time of day...." It always comes to mind when November arrives. The family are quite fed of up of me waving this one about every November first. And I'm thinking I haven't started repeating myself (yet) in the customary manner of old ladies - does the November poem count? I'm still on my 'C' knitting projects - one down and one nearly half-way - they'll be done in good time for wrapping up. Brian (plumber) has just arrived so I'll buzz off for now. It's good-bye bath day. Better fill something with water too in case he has to turn it off.
We had a visit from Ian and Jenny this evening - they came to invite us for Christmas Lunch - isn't that lovely? We shall look forward to it. Just realised I've broken my own rule and mentioned the 'C' word - oh dear, so sorry.
30th October 2014
This morning's post was irritating - several motor insurance companies vying for my dosh. How on earth do they all know it's due next month? The relentlessness of companies trying to grab your money drives me wild - they get at you via e-mail, phone, mobile, snail mail. I'm tempted to look outside to see if they're squatting on the roof or will a little voice get at me from the depths of the plughole? We're hounded so much these days it's becoming the stuff of nightmares. Quick Note: I've put details of the forthcoming Fire & Rescue Service' strikes on the Neighbourhood Watch page. Strikes are 31st Oct - 4th Nov. |
I'm going to make a start on my 'C' card (don't expect miracles). The preliminary sketch is done but it requires a bit of tweaking. There's a pile of paint tubes on my desk and I'm wearing my old paint-spattered red jumper. I've opted for acrylics - so hey ho and away we go...
P.S. 5 hours later and I've consigned it to the dustbin. Back to the drawing board - literally! But not today.
P.S. 5 hours later and I've consigned it to the dustbin. Back to the drawing board - literally! But not today.
29th October 2014
I could barely bring myself to wash this morning in our bomb site of a bathroom. I can see myself donning a tin helmet and a gas mask before we're done. It's only one tiny room - I'm having to be patient and wait until the different tradesmen can fit us in - tiler, plasterer, electrician, plumber, floor man. Oh well...
At last and about time too! I was very interested to read that the Pope has finally fessed up to disbelieving the creation story... I quote... "Pope Francis declares evolution and Big Bang theory are right and God isn't 'a magician with a magic wand." I feel a soapbox moment hovering so I'll log off and spare you the pain of my tirade.
I've had an e-mail from James (Gerry's son - not to be confused with our James/Jay). He's sent us a link to his TOWIE stuff - I've told him we're bridging the generation gap - if oldies can do TOWIE the young ones had better set about learning to crochet. He's quite a character and makes me smile. Oh, and there's a collection of cool dude videos to watch... www.youtube.com/jameboytv
I could barely bring myself to wash this morning in our bomb site of a bathroom. I can see myself donning a tin helmet and a gas mask before we're done. It's only one tiny room - I'm having to be patient and wait until the different tradesmen can fit us in - tiler, plasterer, electrician, plumber, floor man. Oh well...
At last and about time too! I was very interested to read that the Pope has finally fessed up to disbelieving the creation story... I quote... "Pope Francis declares evolution and Big Bang theory are right and God isn't 'a magician with a magic wand." I feel a soapbox moment hovering so I'll log off and spare you the pain of my tirade.
I've had an e-mail from James (Gerry's son - not to be confused with our James/Jay). He's sent us a link to his TOWIE stuff - I've told him we're bridging the generation gap - if oldies can do TOWIE the young ones had better set about learning to crochet. He's quite a character and makes me smile. Oh, and there's a collection of cool dude videos to watch... www.youtube.com/jameboytv
Today in 1618 Sir Walter Raleigh had his head chopped off. He received the death sentence for high treason in 1603 but it was changed to life imprisonment. Then they let him out again in 1616 to make a gold finding expedition to South America. One could say - they (the crown - government?) were all right on their own side - we're giving you licence to go and nick somebody's gold. The mission failed and lots of bad deeds were committed and on his return to England he was executed under the terms of the original sentence. Sounds like much skulduggery and reneging was perpetrated by all sides. Chambers Book of Days ( 1864 edition) says... "Raleigh died nobly... The bishop who attended him and the lords about him were astonished to witness his serenity of demeanour. He spoke to Lord Arundel to desire the king to allow no scandalous writings, defaming him, to be written after his death... and he observed calmly: 'I have a long journey to go, therefore must take leave!' He fingered the axe with a smile, and called it 'a sharp medicine,' 'a sound cure for all diseases;' and laid his head on the block with these words in conclusion: 'So the heart be right, it is no matter which way the head lies.' " Macabre goings on if you ask me - and such a gruesome tale which I think leaves the integrity and ethics of all concerned shrouded in doubt.
28th October 2014
Brian the plumber is here stripping tiles in the bathroom. Clatter, bang, wallop. We're removing plain white tiles which are to be replaced with plain white tiles. Logic? None! But they have to come off to do the job so I guess there must be sense in it somewhere. I'm finding getting old is expensive - this is all in aid of having a walk-in shower instead of the bath and at the moment it's looking like the aftermath in a disaster zone. The little guy over there on your right has taken the hint - I caught him packing his suitcase and heading off into the sunset. Depending upon your views about our involvement in the EU - you can weep or celebrate today. 28th October 1971 Parliament voted in favour of joining the European Economic Community (now the EU). Blimey, I didn't realise we'd been entangled for 43 years. |
I watched Under Milk Wood last night - enjoyed it - Dylan Thomas's use of language is mesmeric, poetic, lyrical and very engaging. I love the way he manages to coin unique adjectives - in my view an indication of good writing. e.g. 'snouting' moles, 'bible' black, etc. and he describes the two sleeping oldies as 'kippered'. Imagery personified.
A quick word about 'C' - the event that happens towards the end of December which we don't yet mention - disaster has struck: Cadbury's have announced that they will not be producing their can't-do-without stocking filler, chocolate coins. In which case, I reckon Santa will have to substitute cream eggs they're bound to be in the shops around 'C' time all ready for Easter.
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27th October 2014
I can breathe easy this week - it's half term - no writers' homework to worry about and no art project to mess up. Washing's pegged,wind's blowing, all's well with the world. I've just had a quick nose round Facebook to see what all the young ones are up to. Jenny's hockey team (Lichfield Ladies First Team) won the match then she was off to a girlie weekend in Cardiff for a meet-up with friends from her uni days. Here she is all glammed up in Cardiff (on the right). I expect Ian's been having a bit of chill time with Jenny away - his Oz Rules Footy season has finished for a while. Charlotte (Bryett) was 18 yesterday - congratulations - her big bash is happening next weekend. I saw Alistair with a big spider crawling round his hand - don't know if it was a real one - I'll not be asking him to let me have a go. |
Jonathan (no 3 grandson, left) has some exciting plans afoot. His trip to New Zealand has been postponed until next June so he's decided to hop over to New York on boxing day for a few days. How aspirations have changed - I remember when a trip to Rhyl was considered an exciting prospect that involved long journey of around 90 miles! A quick happy birthday to Dylan Thomas - born today 1914. The media is doing lots of Dylan Thomas stuff for his centenary. I've recorded the newer version of his "Under Milk Wood" cast includes Tom Jones and Charlotte Church (televised the other day) - I also have a CD of the Richard Burton version. I'm amused by his naming of the fictional village where the wonderful characters in Under Milk Wood live their lives - it's called LLAREGGUB. Obviously it amused Mr Thomas too - maybe it reflects his mindset (read backwards).
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26th October 2014
Hope no one is afflicted with bedsores after the extra hour between the sheets. There's not much to talk about this morning after yesterday's excitement. I've heard on my writerly grapevine that Victoria Hislop's new book is a 'must'. Crikey - the title has gone right out of my head. I'll have a quick look on Amazon to see if I can find it. Got it - "The Sunrise". We all enjoyed "The Return" and "The Island" so maybe this one is another winner too.
Hope no one is afflicted with bedsores after the extra hour between the sheets. There's not much to talk about this morning after yesterday's excitement. I've heard on my writerly grapevine that Victoria Hislop's new book is a 'must'. Crikey - the title has gone right out of my head. I'll have a quick look on Amazon to see if I can find it. Got it - "The Sunrise". We all enjoyed "The Return" and "The Island" so maybe this one is another winner too.
James and Gerry arrived at 11.00 for their promised visit - we had a lively hour talking clothes, telly, uni, Chester, and gawd know what else (this is James of TOWIE fame mentioned a few days ago). He told me he'd been an extra on the programme about the forming of Chester Zoo "Our Zoo" recently serialised on telly. They brought some really posh flowers - lucky me. Bern's just back from visiting his mum - time for some lunch.
We'll be getting confused with two James on board - Gerry's James and our James and both have the nickname Jay. |
25th October 2014
Wow! I've had the happiest day ever - I share my birthday with Jenny's Mum Carol and Pablo Picasso so happy birthdays all round. I've had non-stop visitors and oodles of flowers and cards. People have been coming and going all day - first to arrive was Jenny and Ian, then Jose came and while they were getting acquainted Bernard and Trudie (my brother and sister-in-law) arrived so we were able to exchange stories of aches, pains, and tripping to the loo at ungodly hours. Bern (hubby) kept the tea and coffee flowing. Some of them left and then Andy and Raj arrived followed by Carol. A little later Jay and Lesley came. Andy and Raj departed and Carol, Les and Jay ended up staying for lunch. Lovely messages left here by Doreen, Audrey, Jan, Nick, and Thelma - thank you. We've had loads of chat and laughs so thank you everyone - and I love my new badge. But that's enough about me. |
I keep hearing TV presenters banging on about what to do with our 'extra hour' when we change the clocks tonight. It's only sixty flipping minutes - I don't think I'm going to notice it in the morning - I can daydream an hour away without even trying.
24th October 2014
Another damp day - looking through the window I see the landscape changing daily. Our flowering cherry tree displays dashing daubs of autumnal colour whilst the dainty birch three gardens down is quite denuded and starlings are doing a good job of devouring the fat balls. Damn - I'm so busy gawping through the window I've let my cup of tea get cold. Never mind, I'll hang on until coffee time now. Carol phoned earlier - she said she'd been trying on THE dress at the crack of dawn today, the one she's going to wear for Andy and Raj's wedding, just to ensure it still fits. Yes, it looks like she's finally made her choice after weeks of mooching round the shops. I know that she'll virtually starve until 'the day' to make sure she doesn't 'outgrow' it. I recall a time years ago when she found a dress going at a bargain price - only drawback was that it was a size 8. She dieted like made until she could fit into it - crazy! There's a sharp shower going on outside - a sign I've put the washing on. I don't think we're in for an eventful day - just mundane necessities. |
23rd October 2014
Sorry I'm late - I overslept this morning and it was art class morning too so I had to make a dash for it without stopping here for a chat. Despite my prattling of yesterday about a new picture I decided to finish my ink and wash tree stump before starting on yet another project. See how fickle I am - hopping from one thing to another. Anyway - here's the tree stump - Roland, our tutor, had dug it up from his garden and lugged it in for us to draw. The strange thing on the left is supposed to be a nettle. I had a call from Gerry yesterday evening - her son James had seen that I'd mentioned him here the other day (TOWIE 17th Oct) - he was tickled pink to be included with the knitting, crochet and second rate paintings on an old lady's blog. Outcome is, he may be coming to visit on Sunday morning - isn't that nice? I'll have coffee and biccies at the ready. |
22nd October 2014
I'm going to have to tie up a couple of climbing roses this morning - last night's blustery wind has led them astray. Brian the plumber is coming later to have a final look-see before they make a start on the bathroom.
I'm going to have to tie up a couple of climbing roses this morning - last night's blustery wind has led them astray. Brian the plumber is coming later to have a final look-see before they make a start on the bathroom.
Have you seen the info about the new Google Glass - a method of improving work efficiency using special glasses that have a tiny gismo delivering information above the right eye. The demonstration I saw showed a fork lift driver whose job is to place various items in designated spaces on storage shelving. Instead of carrying a lengthy list on a clipboard the information he needed to do his job was fed directly to the gismo - it has been proved to greatly reduce human error. A brilliant concept indeed and it can be employed to accomplish hundreds of workplace tasks. One day we might even do a supermarket shop with a shopping list hovering somewhere above the right eye. On another note, I've read that a chap has been treated for Internet addiction brought on by wearing Google Glass for periods of up to 18 hours day. I suppose you can access the Internet, in fact anything digital, via these things. Internet addiction - that's a new one - and no, I'm not joking. I'm wondering if I have Internet Addiction and I haven't been near a pair of those specs.
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I'm starting a new knitting project tonight - the wool arrived yesterday. It's a sort of denim blue with a silky sheen. I can't tell you what it's going to be as it's destined to be wrapped in 'C' paper and given to someone at 'C' time. I shall be making two of them. Hope my boredom threshold doesn't let me down.
I've got as far as hunting out the paper to start the picture I waffled about yesterday. This paper is quite robust and if the picture is a success I'll do it again on a proper canvas. For now, it's fingers crossed. |
21st October 2014
It's a case of hang on to your hats this morning - it's a tad breezy outside and gearing up to gale force I reckon. I still haven't come up with an idea for a scary story so I'll be a damp squib at the writers' meeting. I'm also trying to find inspiration for this year's 'C' card so I can get the painting done in time. I say Yule then I don't have to mention the dreaded 'C' word. I'm pondering an abstract but I'm not sure if I can accomplish it. I'm interested in Robert Delaunay's work - I like his abstracts very much and never tire of looking at them (1885-1941). Maybe I'll try to do one "in the style of..." as they say. Delaunay's work (and that of his wife) falls under the heading of Orphism - an art movement which, along with others, they co-founded. To spare you one of my soapbox moments I'll just say that it can be crudely summed up as somewhere between Cubism and Fauvism demonstrating elements of both. Cubism is decidedly abstract and the Fauvists went for colour in a big way so my understanding of Orphism is "colourful abstract" and looking at Delaunay's stuff, they are definitely that. So if you're on my list look out for an Orphic Yule card around the time of the Solstice. That's assuming I manage the task. |
20th October 2014
Was there ever life before Google? I always have to click on the little icon or picture they put by the search box. When I clicked on today's, which is a collection of drawing instruments that architects might use, the instruments did a bit of a dance and then took me to a list of sites about Christopher Wren - it's his birthday today (born 1632), remembered by good old Google. I've attempted to do some Monday morning-ish jobs and made a half-hearted attempt to clean the upstairs windows and then decided uncleaned windows are not life-threatening and oh so uninteresting, and on top of all that I seem to have mislaid my gusto. I haven't tackled tomorrow's writers' homework yet - we have to write something scary. I'm ferreting round for ideas but as yet they elude me.
Was there ever life before Google? I always have to click on the little icon or picture they put by the search box. When I clicked on today's, which is a collection of drawing instruments that architects might use, the instruments did a bit of a dance and then took me to a list of sites about Christopher Wren - it's his birthday today (born 1632), remembered by good old Google. I've attempted to do some Monday morning-ish jobs and made a half-hearted attempt to clean the upstairs windows and then decided uncleaned windows are not life-threatening and oh so uninteresting, and on top of all that I seem to have mislaid my gusto. I haven't tackled tomorrow's writers' homework yet - we have to write something scary. I'm ferreting round for ideas but as yet they elude me.
19th October 2014
I've just planted three tubs with bulbs and topped them with little violas - purple/yellow ones. I always think it's a bit sad having to tidy up the garden for winter - a final and definite goodbye to warm weather. We stack up the garden furniture behind the garage and cover it with a waterproof thing. (Cover the furniture not the garage - bad sentence construction). |
I've been listening to a Radio 4 food programme about eating rabbit. It appears that many people hunt and eat rabbit these days, plus there are farmed rabbits that end up in butchers' shops. A practised rabbit catcher advised that when you've killed your rabbit squeeze the bladder to empty the carcass of urine or the meat will be bitter. That was quite enough to put me off - if you buy one in a shop how would know whether or not its bladder had been squeezed? I haven't eaten rabbit since the war-torn 1940s when my mum used to make rabbit stew. A couple of days ago I was reading how grey squirrel is a bit of a delicacy in certain up-market restaurants. The write-up said that squirrel tastes like rabbit only nuttier. Well that's a bit of a no-brainer - it would be nuttier wouldn't it? I think we should encourage everyone to gobble up the grey squirrels as they don't really belong in this country. Our indigenous red squirrels could then live happily ever after.
We haven't made any plans for this weekend - as you might gather we're not cutting edge folk - more supermarket, sandwiches and sofa.
17th October 2014
Carol turned up as promised yesterday - there was much talk of wedding clothes and the evils of spending money on posh hats that will never be worn again. We're aiming to be "sensible" but the outcome remains undetermined. I hope panic buying doesn't set in - we've 9 weeks before the big day. It's a tad more troublesome when the nuptials take place in the middle of the not-to-be-mentioned-until-December 'C' season. Our new bathroom refurbishment is still going ahead but nothing has happened yet: we await dates from workmen. Nothing runs to plan does it? I've decided to stop fretting and let it all happen around me (whilst muttering vehemently under my breath) and smiling graciously. |
Gerry and I had a good chat, coffee, biscuits (as you do). Her son, James who is at uni in Chester compiles You Tube vidoes commenting on TOWIE. No I didn't know what TOWIE is. I now know it means the TV programme The Only Way is Essex and it's been popular with the young ones since 2010 - I watched it the other night on the "watch an old programme" facility because James was on it - sitting on the sofa with all the celebs (never heard of any of 'em) chatting away. It's definitely young people culture because I found the programme to be abominable but that's because I'm old and hadn't a clue what they were talking about and we mustn't judge the young by my geriatric ideals. Anyway, what I'm trying to tell you is James' You Tube things have gathered such a following that the TV people contacted him and invited him onto the programme. So well done James - you're making your mark and you looked the biz.
16th October 2014
It looks like a morning to pick your way through the puddles. Yesterday evenings' telly was pretty boring without Bake Off and the Chester Zoo drama which I enjoyed has finished too. We ended up watching a recorded episode of Columbo. I'm rushing to get to art class now so I'll be back for a chat later.
Back again - I did some more work on my pen and wash tree stump thing, then I had to leave it for the paper to dry before I can do any more so I started on some birch trees in water-colour. Nothing mind blowing but I managed to look as if I was busy thus avoiding the naughty step. I think Carol is coming after work today and her friend Gerry is popping in tomorrow for coffee.
It looks like a morning to pick your way through the puddles. Yesterday evenings' telly was pretty boring without Bake Off and the Chester Zoo drama which I enjoyed has finished too. We ended up watching a recorded episode of Columbo. I'm rushing to get to art class now so I'll be back for a chat later.
Back again - I did some more work on my pen and wash tree stump thing, then I had to leave it for the paper to dry before I can do any more so I started on some birch trees in water-colour. Nothing mind blowing but I managed to look as if I was busy thus avoiding the naughty step. I think Carol is coming after work today and her friend Gerry is popping in tomorrow for coffee.
15th October 2014
It's looking less gloomy this morning - I think I'll risk some washing. My little book of this and that tells me that today (1987) is when Michael Fish, BBC weather forecaster made his famous announcement when presenting the weather news: "Earlier today, apparently, a woman rang the BBC and said she'd heard there was a hurricane on the way. Well, if you're watching, don't worry - there isn't." We all know what happened after that when the hurricane from hell arrived during the night. - I bet he's never been able to live that one down - I can't help feeling sorry for Mr Fish I expect people constantly dredge it up, 'chip' away and quote it to him.
It's looking less gloomy this morning - I think I'll risk some washing. My little book of this and that tells me that today (1987) is when Michael Fish, BBC weather forecaster made his famous announcement when presenting the weather news: "Earlier today, apparently, a woman rang the BBC and said she'd heard there was a hurricane on the way. Well, if you're watching, don't worry - there isn't." We all know what happened after that when the hurricane from hell arrived during the night. - I bet he's never been able to live that one down - I can't help feeling sorry for Mr Fish I expect people constantly dredge it up, 'chip' away and quote it to him.
I'm a almost embarrassed to tell you this - I've crocheted another blanket. Why? you might ask. Answer: I don't know. But I do like the muted colours - I think it's a winter warmer for watching telly when there's a draught, or to chuck on the bed when it's extra cold. It's in aran weight yarn so it's quite hefty. I'm going to try to wean myself off this crochet addiction - I'm well and truly hooked. I blame Lucy at Attic 24 - she's been my inspiration. http://www.attic24.typepad.com
Re yesterday's writers' meeting: I almost forgot to tell you we had great fun reading our one-act plays - loads of laughs. Our two chaps, Ryan and David, were in great demand to read the male parts, they didn't get a minute's peace. |
14th October 2014
Ugh - another damp day. Carol phoned to request some jars for doing things with their beetroot glut - pickling, chutney and gawd knows what else. She even told me (apologies for lowering the tone) she'd eaten so much beetroot she was alarmed to find she'd spent a pink penny. I'm just going to tweak my homework for today's reading - Bern spotted a typo when I inflicted it on him yesterday evening.
Ugh - another damp day. Carol phoned to request some jars for doing things with their beetroot glut - pickling, chutney and gawd knows what else. She even told me (apologies for lowering the tone) she'd eaten so much beetroot she was alarmed to find she'd spent a pink penny. I'm just going to tweak my homework for today's reading - Bern spotted a typo when I inflicted it on him yesterday evening.
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Today - 1969 saw the arrival of the first 50p coins. I'd much rather have the old ten bob note which it replaced. A .50p coin just doesn't have the same gravitas as the pinky-red paper of the ten shilling note. When we were small our Gran always put a crisp ten shilling note in our birthday cards and you felt pretty rich to be the owner of one of these. It was carefully ironed using an old fashioned iron which she heated on the hob of the living room coal fire. She had a matching pair of irons - while one was used the other would be heating up on the grate. I have these two old irons and use them as door stops. You always knew someone had a birthday coming up when Gran was ironing paper money.
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I heard a news item the other day about King Harold 11 - maybe they decided to present it now because today is the anniversary of the 1066 Battle of Hastings. It is purported that the King did not die at the hands of the Normans. Archaeologists are now claiming King Harold may have survived the Battle of Hastings, and lived out his years before quietly dying of old age. They say history is written by the victors - the tapestry was commissioned by the French - so perhaps the archaeologists are right. The alternative version of events, put forward in a 12th century document housed in the British Museum, discounts the Normans' portrayal of his death in the Bayeux Tapestry. The matter is currently under investigation by the same team who found King Richard III in a Leicestershire car park.
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13th October 2014
There was a stupendous sunset here yesterday evening - we contemplated driving to the back lane by Codsall Church to get a photograph but while we ummed and arred and mucked about turning the oven down and lowering the gas under the veg steamer it all dissipated, melted away over the horizon. The phrase carpe dium comes to mind - but it's easy to be wise in hindsight. Carpe dium - words tripped out when the mood suits - A quick Google told me the phrase has been around since the years B.C. Poet Horace is attributed with coining it for one of his poems. He is known as Horace (poet) and his real name is Quintus Horatius Flaccus - no wonder it was shortened to Horace - born 65 BC - died 8 BC. I had a bit of trouble rationalising the dates until the penny dropped, 8 B.C. come after 65 B.C. I thought they'd muddled the birth and death dates (silly me). I found a picture of him but you'll have to excuse the stony stare. Also, I can't decide if this is actually interesting or is it a quick lesson in how to be boring in one paragraph? I'd no idea mentioning last night's sunset would have me rubbing shoulders with good old Quintus Horatius Flaccus - I'd never heard of him until I went wandering with Google moments ago. Mind you, he looks like he may have been well fit in real life all those years ago. |
Carpe diem is a Latin aphorism usually translated to "seize the day", taken from a poem in the Odes (book 1, number 11) in 23 BC by the poet Horace
I'm going to try doing my writers' group homework for tomorrow now - the one act play. The idea is that the dialogue tells the story because you don't have narrative with a play, making you think carefully about the words you give them to say. All good fun. (perhaps).
Back again: I've written my little play - there's only two characters and the picture is a clue to their identity. I haven't thought of a title yet. |
12th October 2014
The seasonal mist is abundant this morning. We've nothing planned for today other than a mad half-hour with the 'his' and 'hers' vacuum cleaners. Oh yes, it all happens at our house.
The seasonal mist is abundant this morning. We've nothing planned for today other than a mad half-hour with the 'his' and 'hers' vacuum cleaners. Oh yes, it all happens at our house.
11th October 2014
Cora's been thinking of duvets too. She's left a message to say that in the Dunhelm Mill store she saw that they were selling 'something' in a packet that purported to make putting on the duvet cover easy. I wonder what it is - must be a dehydrated duvet fairy. You drop it in a cup of water to revive it and then it buzzes round like Peter Pan's Tinkerbell to magic on your clean duvet cover. "Curiouser and curiouser," said Alice.
The window cleaner has just been - I managed to get out of my PJs before his little face popped up at the window. I hate being the goldfish, but when I am I like to do it with dignity. I can hear the clatter of crockery, Bern must be emptying the dishwasher while the porridge is doing - I'd better go and show willing. Back later.
Cora's been thinking of duvets too. She's left a message to say that in the Dunhelm Mill store she saw that they were selling 'something' in a packet that purported to make putting on the duvet cover easy. I wonder what it is - must be a dehydrated duvet fairy. You drop it in a cup of water to revive it and then it buzzes round like Peter Pan's Tinkerbell to magic on your clean duvet cover. "Curiouser and curiouser," said Alice.
The window cleaner has just been - I managed to get out of my PJs before his little face popped up at the window. I hate being the goldfish, but when I am I like to do it with dignity. I can hear the clatter of crockery, Bern must be emptying the dishwasher while the porridge is doing - I'd better go and show willing. Back later.
CONGRATULATIONS MAGGIE! Tonight's Express & Star - Mags has made it to "Short Story of the Week" - well done. I hope it spurs the others on to get writing and submit something.
We popped over to Pattingham this afternoon to see how Lesley is getting on. She's still off work with her damaged leg - her doctor has prescribed some stronger antibiotics to get things moving. It's looking better but not yet mended. The biggest problem is stopping her hopping about on it. |
10th October 2014
I think it's time for a landmark moment - swapping the duvet - summer weight to winter weight. I haven't resorted to my hottie-bottle yet, I'm saving that for when winter sets in for real... frost and snow etc. I've just Googled 'changing the duvet cover' - looks like I'm not the only one who finds this a mammoth task as there's oodles of videos and written instructions on how to change a duvet cover. Hardly rocket science - one only has to insert a flat rectangular object in a flat rectangular 'envelope' - what's the problem? I think my problem is short arms and the whole thing ends up lumpy middle with empty corners accompanied by unsavoury invective (from me). But I've found a solution - delegate - Bern kindly puts the clean cover on now he has long arms. It looks just like April outside - bright between the showers and a bit blustery. Maggie's left a message to say if we want to steer clear of 'C' for a bit longer don't visit Codsall & Wergs garden centre - they have 'C' stuff wall-to-wall. |
9th October 2014
Well, Nancy pipped the two chaps to the post after all (Bake Off - last night's TV) and I was sure it was going to be Richard. I think all contestants, albeit amateurs, displayed a vast knowledge of pastry, cake, and bread making, with an understanding of the science of how gluten and yeast behave - stuff they need to know to make top notch pastry and bread items . They made my Victoria sponge and carrot cake look a bit ordinary - I've not heard of half the things they produced.
Roland lugged the big log thing to art class again this morning. Some of the others started on it this week. Again, a different selection of media - Maggie, pencil; Jackie, charcoal; and Val used acrylics and a painting knife. All good fun and interesting. I continued with my pen and wash version which I started last week - this morning I added nettles.
Thelma's left a message to say she's spotted (can't bring myself to say the word yet) 'C' trees in Marks & Spencer and already they're loading the shelves with 'C' bling and twinkle. I think anything 'C' related should stay under wraps until December, even Santa should make himself scarce until then.
Well, Nancy pipped the two chaps to the post after all (Bake Off - last night's TV) and I was sure it was going to be Richard. I think all contestants, albeit amateurs, displayed a vast knowledge of pastry, cake, and bread making, with an understanding of the science of how gluten and yeast behave - stuff they need to know to make top notch pastry and bread items . They made my Victoria sponge and carrot cake look a bit ordinary - I've not heard of half the things they produced.
Roland lugged the big log thing to art class again this morning. Some of the others started on it this week. Again, a different selection of media - Maggie, pencil; Jackie, charcoal; and Val used acrylics and a painting knife. All good fun and interesting. I continued with my pen and wash version which I started last week - this morning I added nettles.
Thelma's left a message to say she's spotted (can't bring myself to say the word yet) 'C' trees in Marks & Spencer and already they're loading the shelves with 'C' bling and twinkle. I think anything 'C' related should stay under wraps until December, even Santa should make himself scarce until then.
8th October 2014
Yesterday's writers' meeting was fine. Mention was made of three 'new' words that have entered our language and which came up on University Challenge this week. Bingewatch = recording a programme series and watching the episodes 'back to back'. Showrooming = visiting a store to inspect an item and then you go home and buy it online. (I'm guilty of showrooming). Bitcom = I can't remember Jeremy Paxman's explanation of this one and Googling didn't help. Maybe you know better...? I presented Rene with the Mad Betty Computer Scarf - she wore it all through the meeting. (see 4th Oct). Great British Bake Off fans will be telly-watching tonight - it's the final. Bern says he's read somewhere that Richard is tipped to win. Place your bets now. I've noticed 'C' things creeping into the shops - cards, calendars, confectionery, crackers... the media will be constantly declaring the number of shopping days soon and I'll be going all hum-bug. |
7th October 2014
Brrr another wintry morning - it's all a bit of shock to the system after the sunshine we've grown accustomed to. I've just had an e-mail from David (a friend from writers' group). He'd been reading my waffle about Carol and Gary and their Mott-the-Hoople jaunts - my point is, David owned up, yes actually confessed, to being a Mott-the-Hoople and Ian Hunter fan since forever. Nice to know there are other weirdos afflicted with the same malaise. Only joking guys - Hoople to your hearts content.
Brrr another wintry morning - it's all a bit of shock to the system after the sunshine we've grown accustomed to. I've just had an e-mail from David (a friend from writers' group). He'd been reading my waffle about Carol and Gary and their Mott-the-Hoople jaunts - my point is, David owned up, yes actually confessed, to being a Mott-the-Hoople and Ian Hunter fan since forever. Nice to know there are other weirdos afflicted with the same malaise. Only joking guys - Hoople to your hearts content.
Carol rang this morning - she's still on her "get thin for the wedding" diet and said she's having a salad sandwich for her lunch. The excitement and anticipation of eating that after a morning's work must be overwhelming. I think the "get thin - new outfit" scenario poses a dilemma of gargantuan complexity. If you're seriously trying to lose weight in a short space of time and having to purchase an expensive outfit - at what point in the dieting process do you buy the outfit? Has anyone devised a formula for resolving this? Availability of product and one's dress size are the major criteria - so at what point is it best to make the purchase? You could hang on until you're another size down but things may be sold out. Or do you buy now, keep dieting, and then have your outfit altered at the last minute? I think we could say fiddlesticks to the situation by investing in some of that Gok Wan shapewear I've seen advertised - it smooths out the lumpy bits and distributes excesses more evenly. Problem solved!
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6th October 2014
So typically Monday morning isn't it? Windy, wet, gloomy, cold. I guess one of the joys of being retired is that I don't have to drag myself out on a morning like this. I've brought a big mug of hot tea with me for our morning chat. I haven't managed tomorrow's writers' homework yet - we have to write a children's story in no more than 250 words - inspiration eludes me at the moment. Hang on, I'm just going to get a refill - for the mug not my pen. The mower men are thundering round the street cutting grass in the pouring rain, They're wearing day-glo yellow waterproof jackets and trousers and look like spacemen riding mighty metal sheep that graze the grass in double quick greedy time. I thought you had to wait for the grass to be dry before it would succumb to being cut - seems like they do things differently these days. Spacemen, metal sheep? I wonder... gotta dash, I've a story to write. |
Hour later: done it - I managed to find a children's story from my sighting of the mower man. That's tomorrow's meeting sorted thank goodness.
I caught up with Carol yesterday evening by phone. She said she loved Brighton - lots of little streets to wander round with interesting shops. Another bit of excitement she related is that she managed to put diesel into her petrol engined car aaaaaaaaaargh! Say no more. Luckily she'd only put a drop in before she realized and managed to water it down with petrol (that sounds ambiguous I should have said dilute).
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5th October 2014
I've checked Facebook and there are no celebratory comments from Ian. At the moment I'm assuming bad news for England Dragon Slayers in the Euro Cup. Commiserations guys - better luck next time.
Ouch! Jay was on a grocery shopping mission yesterday and called in here minus Lesley. She had slipped on some marble steps just before getting on the plane home from Santorini and sustained severe bruising on the back of her leg. By Monday things had worsened - hospital scans, etc - it developed into cellulitis so she's out of action for a week or two.
I've checked Facebook and there are no celebratory comments from Ian. At the moment I'm assuming bad news for England Dragon Slayers in the Euro Cup. Commiserations guys - better luck next time.
Ouch! Jay was on a grocery shopping mission yesterday and called in here minus Lesley. She had slipped on some marble steps just before getting on the plane home from Santorini and sustained severe bruising on the back of her leg. By Monday things had worsened - hospital scans, etc - it developed into cellulitis so she's out of action for a week or two.
Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Rajini, happy birthday to you. Not sure if I've introduced you to Raj, she's Andy's partner (middle grandson) they're getting married at Christmas and are currently in the midst of wedding arrangements. She's such a pretty little thing who flits hither and thither so I call her Butterfly. Have a lovely day little Butterfly.
I telephoned Lesley later today and she seemed quite chirpy. She explained that because she has to take the anti-cancer drug tomoxafin the cellulitis is exacerbated because the drug thickens the blood hence her GP's concern. We live and learn. Feet up on the sofa Les, telly on, enjoy a good rest. |
4th October 2014
Ian (no 1 grandson) is captaining the England Team at Twickenham today. Oz Rules Footy - AXIOS 2014 EURO CUP. Here's a link if anyone is interested in Australian Rules Football. 3pm - 7pm. Good luck guys. Ihttp://www.afleurope.org/axios-euro-cup-live-stream/ |
Sorry I'm so late today - Not a good 'insides' day but feeling better now. Did you hear the wintery wind and rain in the night? Summer has definitely bade us farewell. Carol and Gary have just done yet another Mott-the-Hoople jaunt - three cities in three days - Sheffield, Brighton, London, logistically insane!. Oh well, all I can say is happy Hoople-ing.
Such sad news about the second British man (Alan Henning) a dreadful fate for being in the wrong place at the wrong time whilst trying to help unfortunate victims of war. There aren't words to describe the horror of it all and his family's anguish. I'm sure everyone will be hoping that one day they'll find some peace. |
I have a habit of sitting at the computer for long sessions when indulging in my virtual wanderings round the world - lack of movement hinders circulation and I get quite cold without realising it until I return to the here and now. Rene told me she does this too. Sorry Rene but I've crocheted you a "Mad Betty" scarf made from leftovers for wearing at the computer. Well it's either that or I'll have to get you a liberty bodice! Oh dear, does anyone remember those awful garments that some mothers inflicted on their daughters. Fleecy lining, rubber buttons, a sort of Victorian straight jacket to keep you cosy. Give me a garish scarf any day.
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3rd October 2014
The weather girls says it's the last of our 'nice' days today - time to grab a few moments of sunshine before the winter storms begin. The mention of old radio programmes (30th Sept & 1st Oct below) has sent Ann wandering down memory lane. Here's the message she left for us: "Sing something simple as years go by, sing something simple just you and I..." I used to love it and Semprini Serenade on a Thursday night, the programme announcer always began with... "Old ones, new ones, loved ones, neglected ones..." Memories aaah. He was always on when I returned to Q.E. after nights off.
I remember those words clearly too. Here you are Ann - a link to Semprini, have a lovely wallow http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LL0h2a1MxdU
The weather girls says it's the last of our 'nice' days today - time to grab a few moments of sunshine before the winter storms begin. The mention of old radio programmes (30th Sept & 1st Oct below) has sent Ann wandering down memory lane. Here's the message she left for us: "Sing something simple as years go by, sing something simple just you and I..." I used to love it and Semprini Serenade on a Thursday night, the programme announcer always began with... "Old ones, new ones, loved ones, neglected ones..." Memories aaah. He was always on when I returned to Q.E. after nights off.
I remember those words clearly too. Here you are Ann - a link to Semprini, have a lovely wallow http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LL0h2a1MxdU
3rd October 1906 the decision was made to use SOS as the international distress signal. Popular belief is that it means 'save or souls' or 'save our ships' - nothing of the sort. They plumped for SOS for the simple reason that it is clearer and less ambiguous than the original CQD when using Morse code thus translating as: dot dot dot dash dash dash dot dot dot. And there's another - 3rd October 1952 saw the end of tea rationing - introduced during WWII - I wonder if they had a tea party to celebrate. I don't remember being short of tea - I suppose kids didn't, we were happy with a drink of tap water in those days and a bottle of fizzy Vimto was a real treat. I've just read a surprising fact: Vimto, a British product, has been around for 106 years and started out as a cordial - it's 'big' in India and other Asian countries.
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2nd October 2014
Have you torn your tax disc up yet? Mine's still in situ, I'm unsure if I'll be able to cope with the little round vacancy when it's gone. I wonder if people will hang on to them nostalgically and stick them in albums like stamps. And if they do, what on earth shall we call tax disc collectors? Is there a name already? Let's invent one just in case - what about Disctaxonumists? What nonsense! Art class this morning so I'll be back later for a more sensible chat. Hang on, I'll do a Google: VELOLOGY is the study and collection of tax discs. I'd a sneaking suspicion I was talking rubbish. If anyone has plans to become a velologist you're welcome to our old tax discs.
Back home - three of us tackled Roland's tree stump - Susan using pencil, Jo using charcoal and I did mine in pen and wash. I want to do some more work on it but I'll show it to you if it turns out OK (ish). Roland is going to lug it in again next week for others to have a go. It's Mohatma Ghandi's birthday today, his full name is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born 1869 - one of the world's great peace-makers. He worked hard to promote religious tolerance. His ideals were resented by extremists and he was assassinated by a fanatic on 30th January 1948.
Have you torn your tax disc up yet? Mine's still in situ, I'm unsure if I'll be able to cope with the little round vacancy when it's gone. I wonder if people will hang on to them nostalgically and stick them in albums like stamps. And if they do, what on earth shall we call tax disc collectors? Is there a name already? Let's invent one just in case - what about Disctaxonumists? What nonsense! Art class this morning so I'll be back later for a more sensible chat. Hang on, I'll do a Google: VELOLOGY is the study and collection of tax discs. I'd a sneaking suspicion I was talking rubbish. If anyone has plans to become a velologist you're welcome to our old tax discs.
Back home - three of us tackled Roland's tree stump - Susan using pencil, Jo using charcoal and I did mine in pen and wash. I want to do some more work on it but I'll show it to you if it turns out OK (ish). Roland is going to lug it in again next week for others to have a go. It's Mohatma Ghandi's birthday today, his full name is Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, born 1869 - one of the world's great peace-makers. He worked hard to promote religious tolerance. His ideals were resented by extremists and he was assassinated by a fanatic on 30th January 1948.
1st October 2014
"White Rabbits". I'm still irritated that so many of the months are mis-named due to all the messing about without the calendar that's happened over many hundreds of years. October is so-called because it was the eighth month in the Roman calendar (octo = eight). Now that it's the tenth month the name is nonsensical. Prior to the Roman invasion the Saxons called it Wynmonath, meaning Wine Month because it was the time of year for making wine - much more convivial - I've a little notion that it would be sensible to re-adopt the words our ancestors used and hang on to our Anglo-Saxon roots. |
Talking of invasions - it's 40 years today since McDonald's beef-burghers busted their way into our culture. I'm not a big fan myself but I can understand the temptation if you're starving. When our three grandchildren were small they loved to go to McDonald's. When I was included on the trip I used to embarrass them by fishing a plate and knife and fork out of my bag - I just can't be doing with eating out of boxes and no cutlery. I could easily hop onto the fast-food and table manners soapbox, but I'll spare you that lecture in case you send me a 'kill-joy' badge.
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Carol's left a message here in response to yesterday's post: she says she remembers us jigging about en famille to "Top of the Pops" on a Sunday evening before we hopped over to Radio 2 to join in with "Sing Something Simple". I bet no one remembers that programme these days. I'm just going to put my stuff ready for tomorrow's art class. Roland is lugging in a tree root for us to draw - my earlier wish of wanting to get back to our roots has taken on new meaning. But you could say we're branching out in terms of drawing subjects - did you twig? Sorry - I promise to turn over a new leaf, these comments are what you might call barking.
30th September
Goodness me! Another month has almost slipped by in double-quick time. It's the birthday of Radio 1 today - it was launched in 1967 with DJ Tony Blackburn and the first record to hit the airwaves was 'Flowers in the Rain' by The Move. I remember the record but I can't for the life of me remember what The Move looked like. I don't listen to Radio 1 these days but I suppose I must have back in the sixties - I vaguely remember Carol and me dancing round the kitchen to 'My Boy Lollipop' by Little Millie and Jay watching us from his baby high chair. Funny how this stuff pops into your head - I suppose it was thinking about pop music that unearthed the memory. And still on matters of memory - it's writers group today - the brief is to write about a childhood memory. However, I'm going to cheat today. We've done this exercise in the past so I'm going to ferret through my computer files and find something that will do. It might not fool them all but the newer members will think I've performed. Devious or what?
Back again - a good meeting with good attendance - looks like everyone enjoyed resurrecting childhood memories which took us to several decades as we're a bunch of mixed ages.
Goodness me! Another month has almost slipped by in double-quick time. It's the birthday of Radio 1 today - it was launched in 1967 with DJ Tony Blackburn and the first record to hit the airwaves was 'Flowers in the Rain' by The Move. I remember the record but I can't for the life of me remember what The Move looked like. I don't listen to Radio 1 these days but I suppose I must have back in the sixties - I vaguely remember Carol and me dancing round the kitchen to 'My Boy Lollipop' by Little Millie and Jay watching us from his baby high chair. Funny how this stuff pops into your head - I suppose it was thinking about pop music that unearthed the memory. And still on matters of memory - it's writers group today - the brief is to write about a childhood memory. However, I'm going to cheat today. We've done this exercise in the past so I'm going to ferret through my computer files and find something that will do. It might not fool them all but the newer members will think I've performed. Devious or what?
Back again - a good meeting with good attendance - looks like everyone enjoyed resurrecting childhood memories which took us to several decades as we're a bunch of mixed ages.
29th September 2014We called on Jay and Lesley yesterday afternoon - they were busy gardening but were happy to pause for tea and biscuits when we arrived. I exchanged a jar of my plum jam for a bundle of green beans, some tomatoes, cucumbers, and beetroot. Looks like I got the best end of the deal. (Waving to you Audrey - Lesley's Mum in Hampshire). Glad to tell you Aud that they look tanned and well after their holiday. We saw their kitchen island thing for the first time - it's completed and they've added high stools on which to perch. Jay says he awaits our verdict on the beetroot because a couple of weeks ago we had some from Carol and Gary's garden - he's thrown out a challenge "the battle of the beets". Take heed Shrewsbury people. Here's a picture for Audrey and Jack as they don't manage to get up here so often these days. By the way, Jay and Les's pergola is dripping with grapes - but crikey they're tart and tummy achey.
Carol phoned this morning - she's begun a serious mission to find her outfit for Andy and Raj's December wedding. She briefed me on things she'd seen in Shrewsbury but no 'definites' as yet. She told me that her own wedding dress had been brought down from the loft (made by yours truly 35 years ago) because the seamstress who is making Raj's dress is going to include something from Carol's dress. (All together - aaaaaaaargh). I asked the silly question "did you try it on?" and was told no attempt had been made as the dress is a size 8. It has tiny pearl buttons all down the back and I suspect there's little chance of them meeting up with their corresponding little loops in today's climate. |
We've had a busy afternoon - went to Bilston to the tile centre to choose bathroom tiles. Ended up with very similar to what we already have - largish tiles, white. We're not a bit daring when it comes to tiles, in fact we're positively boring but if they're too fancy I'd get fed up with them very quickly. As we were out and about we popped along to the big blue and yellow place - the store that you either love or hate but it's great for paper napkins. I bought a huge pack for a £1 and yes, they're white. Bern sent Jay a text to say he was having to "walk the walk with the compulsory big yellow bag." They both dislike being dragged to Ikea but are known to stop moaning if they get to eat the Sedish meatballs and gravy in the cafeteria. I have to admit though, it was a long way to go for paper napkins that we didn't really need.
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28th September 2014
Another beautiful morning. We've just had a visit from Duncan (re the planned bathroom refurbishment) - he's the tiler Brian the plumber recommended. Nice chap. Brian's on holiday so it's a matter of being patient and trusting we can find a plasterer who will fit in with the arrangements and they can all arrive at a mutually convenient date to do the biz.
Another beautiful morning. We've just had a visit from Duncan (re the planned bathroom refurbishment) - he's the tiler Brian the plumber recommended. Nice chap. Brian's on holiday so it's a matter of being patient and trusting we can find a plasterer who will fit in with the arrangements and they can all arrive at a mutually convenient date to do the biz.
Just a little mention of an anniversary on today's date - in 1923 the Radio Times was first published - it cost tuppence. 2d in old money about (ish) the equivalent of 1p today. I buy a Radio Times every week and it currently costs £1.80 but I prefer it to all the other telly mags - it's a bit of institution isn't it, akin to cricket, the union jack, and Victoria sponge. If memory serves me well, it's also the 'paper' that was thriftily threaded onto string and hung in many a family's outside privy - many years ago of course. My Gran had such a (in)convenience and the smell of damp cold newsprint evokes memories of having to circumnavigate a pile of coal to get to the privy and that's after you'd gone out of the back door and across the yard in all weathers. No wonder, when possible, we waited until we got home.
27th September 2014
We have a lovely morning here - sunshine - I can see autumn colours as I gaze across the gardens round about and it's feeling warmish. Nothing of interest on the agenda - only shopping and the usual household jobs to do. Jay and Les are flying home today - they've just had a week in Santorini - we may catch up with them tomorrow. I've found a picture of the place - it looks idyllic - blue sea, blue sky, blue roofs. Have to confess I always thought Santorini was Italy - it sounds Italian to me but I've just realised it's Greece. |
26th September 2014
Do you fancy a spot of history? 26th September 1580 - Francis Drake sailed into Plymouth harbour on the Golden Hind. The ship was originally named The Pelican but he renamed it mid-voyage to please a nobleman who was one of his sponsors. Drake was the first Englishman to circumnavigate the globe and the journey took 3 years - he sailed in December 1577 and returned in September 1580. I reckon he was something of a pirate while on his travels as he came back with oodles of treasure, which if you think about it, is tantamount to nicking other peoples' stuff. Queen Elizabeth 1st was given a hefty share of the booty, so much in fact, she used it to pay off England's foreign debt. Will I get done for treason if I say she acted as what the criminal world call a 'receiver'? Of the original crew of 80 only 56 came home. The Queen knighted Drake for this 'successful' and epic voyage. Not so squeaky clean are we? |
My heart sinks as we make moves to engage in yet another war. There are no answers to the problems of the Middle East. The territorial and religious arguments go round in circles and as all factions consider themselves right it's perpetual stalemate and no one is ever going to give way, not even for the sake of those who are suffering. Implosion is nigh. On that happy note I'm off to put the kettle on before I drag myself into the depths of despair thinking about the horrors that are happening around the world. When the chores are done I'm going to grapple my crochet hook and finish this flipping whatsit I've been working on in recent weeks.
Several times recently I've heard the word 'normcore' on the radio. When it turned up on Woman's Hour (Radio 4) twice this week I had to get to the bottom of things. I'm both amused and bemused to find that it's a word for the so-called 'latest fashion'. The odd thing is it's a sort of anti-fashion that is now fashionable and according to its dedicated followers it means dressing 'normally'. Yes, I'm still confused too. From what I've read it appears you have to wear a nomal pair of jean (mid-blue nothing flashy), a normal sort of tee-shirt without ironic messages, and a pair of white trainers on a par with those worn by dads. And if you can interpret that you're a better man than I am Gunga Din. There's a very similar word appearing in street speak, norcore, but that's another story and one I haven't investigated properly - it's something to do with being 'more than hardcore'. One more puzzling concept to contemplate, or maybe we'll not bother.
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25th September 2014
Art class morning already (where did the week go?). Have to down some breakfast and a shedful of pills before I go out - back later. Home again - I didn't produce anything worth waving at the world, just another one for the bin. Hilary brought green beans and tomatoes from her garden - not to paint but to share out, they have a glut. Jose brought chocolate biscuits for us to eat at coffee time and Roland gave us a mini lecture and demonstration on drawing form. Now I'm hell bent on finishing the crochet project as boredom is creeping in and I hate leaving anything unfinished. |
How's this for cool? They're talking about No 1 Grandson.
Lichfield man named England Aussie Rules football captain - Sep 25, 2014 by Ross A Lichfield man has been named as the captain of England’s Aussie Rules football team. Ian Mitchell, 30, will lead the England Dragonslayers in their competitive autumn fixtures. One of the highlights will be the Euro Cup in London, which will see 16 teams compete to become the cream of the continent. Ian, who plays for the Wolverhampton Wolverines, was part of the team which won the Euro Cup in 2013. He was selected for the captaincy after a training camp over the summer. |
24th September 2014
Just waiting for my brain to wake up - back later.
Just waiting for my brain to wake up - back later.
I've exchanged e-mails with Maggie, Cora, and Carol, had coffee, mindlessly munched almonds, frittered away bits of the morning in between, and still I await a light-bulb moment. If I'm to write anything It's going to have to be common or garden prattle. The only thing on my mind at the moment is our forthcoming bathroom revolution. Revolution might sound too strong a word but the dictionary says "a dramatic and far-reaching change", so yes, it's suitable. As I explained last week (18th Sept), the cylinder is sorted, but we still have to remove the bath, loo and wash basin, strip the tiles, re-plaster, electricity adjustments because I want the shower moved, renew the floor because there'll be funny gaps where the bath used to be, and fit a walk-in shower. If you've the slightest inkling that we're setting it up for our old age, you'd be quite right. We've had too many instances of having to fish Bern's mother out of the bath when she'd got stuck. We thought we'd better put these things in place before we're too daft to think about it. I reckon the tricky bit will be getting plumber, tiler, plasterer, electrician, floor-man to come at the appropriate times on appropriate days so that we shan't be out of action for weeks on end. Factor into the equation waiting for plaster to dry etc and the outlook is grim. Oh, and we still have to go and hunt down some tiles. Luckily we have a downstairs loo but it's only a tiny square space and I have visions of trying to bath in a bucket in there. Oh dear.
23rd September 2014
Oh dear, I dozed off again this morning and was a bit late crawling out of bed. My crochet shoulder is aching like mad and does audible 'clicks' - bit like that old song, "dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones...." I know I'm always saying it but here it comes again...."the joys of ageing don't exist..." Despite the aches and moans I continue with the crochet - I'll show you what it's all about soon. Well I'd better stir my stumps as it's writers' group later and time to return the books they loaned us for our summer read. Oh, and I must remember to take Rene a small jar of the plum jam I made the other day.
Back again: we had a good meeting with everyone having written a piece - outcome was that there were mixed opinions about the book but we all agreed that they were well written and occasionally challenging. We looked discussed other books by Jane Gardam and Rene recommended "Old Filth". Text message from Carol to say she'll be calling in after work for a cup of tea and to scrounge a jar of the jam that she's read about here. While I was in the library I bumped into Elaine Gill (a special friend and one-time work colleague from way back in the seventies) so we planned a get-together for 'soonish'.
Oh dear, I dozed off again this morning and was a bit late crawling out of bed. My crochet shoulder is aching like mad and does audible 'clicks' - bit like that old song, "dem bones, dem bones, dem dry bones...." I know I'm always saying it but here it comes again...."the joys of ageing don't exist..." Despite the aches and moans I continue with the crochet - I'll show you what it's all about soon. Well I'd better stir my stumps as it's writers' group later and time to return the books they loaned us for our summer read. Oh, and I must remember to take Rene a small jar of the plum jam I made the other day.
Back again: we had a good meeting with everyone having written a piece - outcome was that there were mixed opinions about the book but we all agreed that they were well written and occasionally challenging. We looked discussed other books by Jane Gardam and Rene recommended "Old Filth". Text message from Carol to say she'll be calling in after work for a cup of tea and to scrounge a jar of the jam that she's read about here. While I was in the library I bumped into Elaine Gill (a special friend and one-time work colleague from way back in the seventies) so we planned a get-together for 'soonish'.
22nd September 2014
Monday again - nothing much happening and I have to do my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting i.e. write a review of the summer read. We had a quick gallop round Ashwood Garden Centre yesterday afternoon (for quick gallop read amble). Spring bulbs were the 'must buy' of the moment - inevitably I bought a few. I liked Monty Don's idea (last Friday's TV gardening programme). To plant up a pot for spring flowering he put a layer of compost with tall pinky-purple tulips at the bottom of the pot. Another layer of compost and Tete-a-Tete daffodils (they're short and don't flop - bit like me but I manage to do the flop part) more compost and a layer of small bright blue iris, more compost and a planting of pansies. He said they'd all find their way through each other and through the pansies providing colour over a long period of time. Sounds good - let's get our hands mucky. Have a look at the little video I found on the BBC website http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p026z7rf
Monday again - nothing much happening and I have to do my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting i.e. write a review of the summer read. We had a quick gallop round Ashwood Garden Centre yesterday afternoon (for quick gallop read amble). Spring bulbs were the 'must buy' of the moment - inevitably I bought a few. I liked Monty Don's idea (last Friday's TV gardening programme). To plant up a pot for spring flowering he put a layer of compost with tall pinky-purple tulips at the bottom of the pot. Another layer of compost and Tete-a-Tete daffodils (they're short and don't flop - bit like me but I manage to do the flop part) more compost and a layer of small bright blue iris, more compost and a planting of pansies. He said they'd all find their way through each other and through the pansies providing colour over a long period of time. Sounds good - let's get our hands mucky. Have a look at the little video I found on the BBC website http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p026z7rf
21st September 2014
We're hovering around the Autumn Equinox now - known as Mabon to the old Pagans - the actual date can vary from year to year. There's definitely a chill in the air this morning with summer about to bow out. It's also St Matthews Day (writer of the first gospel). It falls close to the Equinox and folklore has it that it's a day to "shut up the bee." The other snippet of good advice the ancients offer is, it's unwise to gather hazlenuts in the woods because today is Devil's Nutting Day which means Old Nick will be in the woods gathering nuts and it's not a good idea to risk a chance meeting with him. |
Bern's busy with the vacuum and we haven't had our breakfast yet - I'd better flap a duster and try to look like I'm helping.
Carol's just phoned - she and Gary were driving through Warwick on their way home from Leamington Spa - they've been on an overnight trip to take in a Mott-the-Hoople concert (why wouldn't you?). As we all know Gary is a lifelong number one fan of Ian Hunter and his group and at last we get to see two old rockers united.... Bit of a Freudian slip going on here when I view the two pictures I've posted today. Top pic: "Several Nuts" Bottom Pic: "Two Nuts" (I bet I'm not the most popular mother-in-law in the world after that comment.) |
20th September 2014
Saturday again - time to jump on the chores treadmill. Bern has to rejig the airing cupboard interior - the old shelves no longer fit as the new cylinder is much larger - less room for junk so I'm on "chucking out stuff" duty. I can't shop until the post has been - I'm expecting some yarn from Deramores - my crochet project is slowly growing incorporating the little round things I began earlier in the month (see 7th Sept). There's a sprig of lucky heather below - I'm waving it at the writers' group members who've submitted items to the Express and Star writing competition - Good Luck!
Saturday again - time to jump on the chores treadmill. Bern has to rejig the airing cupboard interior - the old shelves no longer fit as the new cylinder is much larger - less room for junk so I'm on "chucking out stuff" duty. I can't shop until the post has been - I'm expecting some yarn from Deramores - my crochet project is slowly growing incorporating the little round things I began earlier in the month (see 7th Sept). There's a sprig of lucky heather below - I'm waving it at the writers' group members who've submitted items to the Express and Star writing competition - Good Luck!
19th September 2014
Well it's all done and dusted - whether you're sobbing into your shortbread or happy in the heather the decision has been made until the next uprising - I suspect there'll be future bids for Scottish Independence. I remain ambivalent about the matter. We have to be patient through today as the politicians debate, dissect, discuss it at all levels - it looks like there'll be changes ahead for all so I hope everything settles down without animosity.
Well it's all done and dusted - whether you're sobbing into your shortbread or happy in the heather the decision has been made until the next uprising - I suspect there'll be future bids for Scottish Independence. I remain ambivalent about the matter. We have to be patient through today as the politicians debate, dissect, discuss it at all levels - it looks like there'll be changes ahead for all so I hope everything settles down without animosity.
In the light of the week's exhilarating events, i.e. plumbing, lost lid, and binned painting, I forgot to mention the other heady happening - plum jam. Last weekend I bought some plums, they were party to a BOGOF offer and not wishing to look a gift horse in the mouth, I ended up with more plums than we could sensibly eat, so I turned them into jam. I still haven't found the wandering lid - a complete mystery. If by chance it did end up in the recycling it's long gone now as the lorry has just collected it.
Maggie did a nice drawing yesterday using coloured pencils. I see she's put it on Facebook - I've pinched it for our pages here. Lovely picture Mags - I've put it on the Arty Page. |
18th September 2014
Up early again today - we have Brian the plumber coming to replace the hot water cylinder. I'm sitting in chaos surrounded by the contents of the airing cupboard. For too long it's been a bit of a hoarding place for loads of stuff I've forgotten about. Things like old towels that we never use but haven't quite reached the end of their usefulness. A bit like me really, knackered but not quite ready to snuff it. Because the new cylinder is a pressurized something or other (the latest thing in cylinders they tell me) it has to have a vent pipe to outside so that's going through the built-in wardrobes at floor level. Consequently we've had to empty those too - so there are further mountains of stuff plus all the junk that gets shoved at the bottom of wardrobes and forgotten about. Then when the wardrobes were actually empty the residual dust was shameful and entailed a red-faced vacuuming session. Oh - I see Brian's car has just pulled up - so glad I shifted the dust. Art class starts again today - back later.
Up early again today - we have Brian the plumber coming to replace the hot water cylinder. I'm sitting in chaos surrounded by the contents of the airing cupboard. For too long it's been a bit of a hoarding place for loads of stuff I've forgotten about. Things like old towels that we never use but haven't quite reached the end of their usefulness. A bit like me really, knackered but not quite ready to snuff it. Because the new cylinder is a pressurized something or other (the latest thing in cylinders they tell me) it has to have a vent pipe to outside so that's going through the built-in wardrobes at floor level. Consequently we've had to empty those too - so there are further mountains of stuff plus all the junk that gets shoved at the bottom of wardrobes and forgotten about. Then when the wardrobes were actually empty the residual dust was shameful and entailed a red-faced vacuuming session. Oh - I see Brian's car has just pulled up - so glad I shifted the dust. Art class starts again today - back later.
Home again, Brian is still here doing things with huge drill bits, pipe benders and ladders. It was such a fun way to spend a few hundred pounds fore something that hides in the airing cupboard. Excitement level is on par with the perpetual reporting on the Scottish Referendum.
My daubing at this morning's art class was disastrous and was swiftly consigned to the bin - what's new? |
17th September 2014
About yesterday's lost lid. A message from Denise suggests I've shoved it under the bottom of the tin (I know what you mean Denise, I'll have a quick look). No, not there. I reckon I should be thinking lost marbles (mine) as well as lost lid - it's melted, dissipated, dissolved into thin air and it's driving me crazy. This reminds me of when I lost the TV remote thing - I stripped the bed, turned the place upside down and eventually found it in my handbag. (Don't ask because I don't know). I'll just check my handbag for lids. Whew, not there, I'm not that daft this time - but I came across my phone which I'd forgotten to charge so it was worth looking. (Phone's plugged in now). No wonder I'm batty - all this angst and rushing round in circles before breakfast. I need a cup of tea. |
16th September 2014
It's what I call a John Keats morning - all mists and mellow whatsit... but it's going to warm up later. Carol's just phoned and said it was extremely foggy by the Wrekin as she drove to work. We still have a scattering of roses clinging to summer and brightening my day. I need to get a move on this morning - it's first day back at writers' group. Jane Seabourne is coming today to do a writers' workshop - the theme is 'humour in writing' - should be interesting.
It's grovel time - profuse and abject apologies. Yesterday's spiel about the Mayflower actually appertains to today - I'm afraid I brought out the Pilgrim Fathers and baby Oceanus a day early. Geriatric brain again!
It's what I call a John Keats morning - all mists and mellow whatsit... but it's going to warm up later. Carol's just phoned and said it was extremely foggy by the Wrekin as she drove to work. We still have a scattering of roses clinging to summer and brightening my day. I need to get a move on this morning - it's first day back at writers' group. Jane Seabourne is coming today to do a writers' workshop - the theme is 'humour in writing' - should be interesting.
It's grovel time - profuse and abject apologies. Yesterday's spiel about the Mayflower actually appertains to today - I'm afraid I brought out the Pilgrim Fathers and baby Oceanus a day early. Geriatric brain again!
The writers' meeting went well - we welcomed two new members, Sue and Maria. Lesley, who has recently moved to Church Stretton, came over for the workshop - nice to see her again and Rosemary too who has been missing due to grandchild-minding duties. There was an interesting exhibition in the Library about the Staffordshire Hoard and a display about the Mercian area in ancient times.
When I arrived home I had another geriatric moment - I took a digestive biscuit out of the tin and now I can't find the lid. Where might I have put it? I've looked everywhere and Bern's even looked in the outside bins - the biscuit-tin-lid fairies have magicked it away. |
15th September 2014
Monday morning - and all's quiet on the Western Front. Carol rang earlier to give me the low down on their Chester trip. Friday night was a concert (I've forgotten the group). On Saturday afternoon she managed to park Gary in front of a TV somewhere to watch football (avid Arsenal fan) while she grabbed an extra look at the shops with wedding clothes in mind. She said she talked herself out of a £90 hat (I should bloody well think so!) and no wedding purchases were made. Oh dear, it's all still to come - the angst and indecision, the pavement plodding in the interests of colour-matching, co-ordinating accessories, and being 'different'. Par for the course I suppose - I'll just give in and go with the flow.
Do you remember those millions of round things I crocheted? (see 7th Sept.) They're doing nicely and "it" is beginning to take shape. As with all my projects, it's open to change and revision, depending on my boredom threshold.
Monday morning - and all's quiet on the Western Front. Carol rang earlier to give me the low down on their Chester trip. Friday night was a concert (I've forgotten the group). On Saturday afternoon she managed to park Gary in front of a TV somewhere to watch football (avid Arsenal fan) while she grabbed an extra look at the shops with wedding clothes in mind. She said she talked herself out of a £90 hat (I should bloody well think so!) and no wedding purchases were made. Oh dear, it's all still to come - the angst and indecision, the pavement plodding in the interests of colour-matching, co-ordinating accessories, and being 'different'. Par for the course I suppose - I'll just give in and go with the flow.
Do you remember those millions of round things I crocheted? (see 7th Sept.) They're doing nicely and "it" is beginning to take shape. As with all my projects, it's open to change and revision, depending on my boredom threshold.
An interesting anniversary today: 1620 the Mayflower sailed from Plymouth, England, bound for North America. There were 102 passengers - the Pilgrim Fathers. They were Puritans who had broken away from the Church of England having suffered persecution under James 1. During their nine week voyage a baby was born - his mother named him Oceanus. (Imagine shouting that up the street, "Oceanus, your tea's ready!" Anyway, the Pilgrims had been granted land in Virginia but the weather was so bad they finally landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts in December 1620. They established a settlement and the area became known as New England.
P.S. That name Oceanus lingers in my mind. I wonder if once they were settled, he eventually got a sister named Terra Firma.
P.S. That name Oceanus lingers in my mind. I wonder if once they were settled, he eventually got a sister named Terra Firma.
14th September 2014
Oh wow - and as Victor Meldrew would say, "I don't believe it." Thank you Cora, Roland, Denise and Doreen who sent messages alerting me to a momentous happening. We don't always buy an Express & Star - and sod's law, the day we didn't, my story was published. It has been nominated 'story of the week' (page 18). We nipped out early this morning and managed to buy the last copy at the newsagent on Birches Bridge. When some of the writers' group members met at the garden centre (see 2nd Sept) we agreed we'd all send something to the E&S writing competition. Having submitted my entry I promptly forgot all about it - hence the Meldrew moment and frisson of excitement on seeing my name in print - I'd never have known about it without my friends' messages. |
I haven't seen much of the Proms this summer, but caught Part Two of yesterday evening's "last night" concert. Lots of jolly flag waving and good humour. I'd love to see inside the Albert Hall, it always looks pretty grand on telly. Years ago Jay was there with the QCS (RAF) - we watched them taking part in the November Remembrance Service (on TV).
Bern visited his mum - he said she was a little 'vague' this morning but otherwise OK. Jay and Lesley turned up around lunch time so we press-ganged them into staying for lunch. While they were here Andy (no 2 grandson) and Raj arrived bearing wedding invitations for us and Jay and Les. Plans are in place for 21st December - immediate conversations ensued, the main theme being 'what shall I wear?'. Weddings are always about 'outfits' aren't they? I know Carol is going round in circles trying to decide upon hers. As they all left my sister rang for a general exchange of news: their chickens are laying - allotment has been productive - all's well with their world. |
13th September 2014
Saturday again - shopping, washing, and generally boring stuff to do. I'm hell bent on finding helenium plants and none of the local garden centres has them - I'm looking for the tall variety. I enquired when we were up at Bridgemere a few weeks ago but they'd sold out. I like them because they're late flowering and their rich yellow is just right for where I want them to grow. I may have to do a Google exercise to track them down. I'm now having second thoughts - maybe the plant is rudbeckia - it's very tall with yellow daisy-shaped blooms in a rich mustard yellow. Methinks a megga Google is called for.
Carol and Gary are having a day in Chester. I saw on Facebook that Ian is playing in an Oz Rules competition match somewhere. I've no idea what the rest of the crew are up to. We may call in later at Pattingham to see how Lesley and Jay are getting on. For now though, it's coffee and then supermarket shopping.
P.S. no free tea and cakes, Jay and Les were out.
Saturday again - shopping, washing, and generally boring stuff to do. I'm hell bent on finding helenium plants and none of the local garden centres has them - I'm looking for the tall variety. I enquired when we were up at Bridgemere a few weeks ago but they'd sold out. I like them because they're late flowering and their rich yellow is just right for where I want them to grow. I may have to do a Google exercise to track them down. I'm now having second thoughts - maybe the plant is rudbeckia - it's very tall with yellow daisy-shaped blooms in a rich mustard yellow. Methinks a megga Google is called for.
Carol and Gary are having a day in Chester. I saw on Facebook that Ian is playing in an Oz Rules competition match somewhere. I've no idea what the rest of the crew are up to. We may call in later at Pattingham to see how Lesley and Jay are getting on. For now though, it's coffee and then supermarket shopping.
P.S. no free tea and cakes, Jay and Les were out.
12th September 2014
Good morning - we're out of bed early today as we've planned a day out. Back later to tell you about it.
Good morning - we're out of bed early today as we've planned a day out. Back later to tell you about it.
Home again in time for tea.
Ever since we went to a family wedding in South Wales a few years ago I've been wanting to have a proper look at Monmouth. En route to the wedding we'd stopped there for a sandwich but didn't have time to look round. So today we headed back there and had a lovely day - great weather - and a substantial dose of retail therapy. We saw some brilliant art work in a little gallery at the top of the high street. We bought Marks & Spencer sandwiches and had a picnic by the river Mon. We opted for the picturesque route home via Hereford, Leominster, Bridgnorth to enjoy the countryside. |
11th September 2014
A moment in memory of the 3,000 people who died in the 9/11 atrocity 13 years ago today. If you're into poetry look up the Wendy Cope poem entitled "Spared". I can't quote it here for fear of contravening copyright law - in very few words she has captured the moment.
A moment in memory of the 3,000 people who died in the 9/11 atrocity 13 years ago today. If you're into poetry look up the Wendy Cope poem entitled "Spared". I can't quote it here for fear of contravening copyright law - in very few words she has captured the moment.
I haven't decided what to do today - I'm as aimless as ever. The September sunshine looks inviting so I expect I'll surrender to its lure and potter outside, after I've caught up on my dozen or so Facebook Scrabble games, and maybe indulged in my guilty secret which is Candy Crush (I'm stuck on level 86). The plumes have appeared on the tall grass that hides the bins, a sure sign that autumn has a foot in the door - the whispy seedheads are pinky-bronze in the sunlight.
Just spent half an hour sitting in the sun then came back in to make a carrot cake to cancel out the time-wasting. Bern's off to the dentist shortly for another episode of the new gnashers saga - plus it's time to pay up. Jose came round this afternoon bringing me a pot of bulbs - very kind of her. They're the sweet smelling Narcissus called Paper Whites. While she was here Bern returned from the dentist and we both reached for our sun-glasses (say no more!). I asked if they were comfortable and he said the only discomfort was felt by his wallet.
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10th September 2014
All together now.... sing up, I'm sure you know the tune.... Some'll take the 'AYE' road Some'll take the 'NO' road Hope the referendum won't bore you... Westminster and SNPs may never meet again On the bonnie bonnie banks of Loch Lomond. We're going to have to sit it out, there'll be no peace until it's happened. I see Her Maj is keeping schtum on the matter but I would imagine the whole business is a bit unsettling for her. If the Yes people win there's going to be countless out-of-date flags flapping from England's flagpoles; and if the Sots do tootle off to do their own thing I'll be inclined to give up shortbread. My porridge is safe because I buy posh oats from Ireland (available in Waitrose). |
I'm quite pleased with my current crochet project - it's progressing well. (The round things I mentioned on the 7th). I've done 60 little circles so far plus further work on some of them. It's going to be a lengthy process using oodles of yarn - there's a possibility I'll still be working on it this time next year, that's if I don't get bored and force it to 'morph' into something else. I've looked at the colours again and decided I need to add more yellow. Not mustard yellow, nor lemon yellow, but a custardy colour which is somewhere in between. Did you like the word morph? Years ago my grandsons insisted I learn about teenage mutant ninja turtles so the word inevitably entered my vocabulary.
Did you see the full moon last night? The TV weather man called it a harvest moon - it was spectacular. |
MESSAGE for Carol: Hope I've made it in time for your lunch time read today. Enjoy your choir session tonight - first one this term. Vivacity to your vocal chords - warble well xxx.
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9th September 2014
Oh dear, I've just had a text from Carol wanting to know why I haven't blogged yet. I didn't have much to say today and another good excuse would be to say I was trying to spare you too much pointless prattle. The only thing of note that's happened this morning is the stewed apple that I forgot about, well it started out as stewed apple and ended up as black gunge glued to a saucepan. I've soaked, scrubbed, scraped, and put it to soak again - this particular saucepan may be indisposed for some time. Bern likes stewed apple and custard but it's off the menu tonight.
Oh dear, I've just had a text from Carol wanting to know why I haven't blogged yet. I didn't have much to say today and another good excuse would be to say I was trying to spare you too much pointless prattle. The only thing of note that's happened this morning is the stewed apple that I forgot about, well it started out as stewed apple and ended up as black gunge glued to a saucepan. I've soaked, scrubbed, scraped, and put it to soak again - this particular saucepan may be indisposed for some time. Bern likes stewed apple and custard but it's off the menu tonight.
I wonder how the Scottish referendum will turn out - I'm afraid I haven't contemplated the consequences of the result either way but it's certainly a high profile event. I expect it was just as controversial in 1707 when the two nations joined forces in the first place.
Jay called in this afternoon, he'd been for a haircut. He's heavily into a George Orwell novel called "Burma Days" - grist to the mill and mood enhancing for their planned Burma trek. They tell me that despite it being a third world country the hotels are overpriced for the quality on offer. Jonathan has applied for visa/work-permit ready for his sojourn in New Zealand.
Jay called in this afternoon, he'd been for a haircut. He's heavily into a George Orwell novel called "Burma Days" - grist to the mill and mood enhancing for their planned Burma trek. They tell me that despite it being a third world country the hotels are overpriced for the quality on offer. Jonathan has applied for visa/work-permit ready for his sojourn in New Zealand.
8th September 2014
Looks like we're getting another balmy day - let's grab a bit of sunshine while we can. I haven't any plans today so I'll aimlessly whittle the hours away, it's something I do quite well. Make a cake? Bit more gardening? Who knows? Maybe I'll indulge in reading, radio or the dreaded hooky-woolly thing, I might even grit my teeth and do some ironing. Monday thrills are immeasurable. Brrr.... just pegged the washing and what looked like a balmy day through the window is still a bit chilly. Here's an interesting snippet of trivia: on this day in 1664 the American city of New Amsterdam was captured from the Dutch by the British Army who renamed it New York in honour of the Duke of York. It strikes me the British have been a tad pushy in the past. But when you delve into the history of things you find all nations travelled the globe bent on nicking someone else's territory and they're still at it today. Maybe I'm too simplistic but I don't see the sense in it. |
7th September 2014
There's been nothing of note on telly so out came the hooks and yarn again. I've been doing these little circles. There's about fifty of them stacked up at the moment, jolly little things in a myriad of colours . Family members will view this picture with sinking hearts, there'll be quakes of horror and at the very least, a general feeling of disquiet at the thought of me presenting them with bundles of excruciatingly naff woolly coasters. They'll be struggling with the notion of how to keep straight faces and having to thank me for something they truly don't want. Then there'll be the problem of how to placate me when they don't use them. You'll hear their sighs of relief; joyful exhalations will sweep across the country which those who are not in the know will mistakenly assume is an autumnal breeze when I say, no they're not coasters, I have other plans for them, so there! |
We've porridged and vacuumed and once we've downed a cup of coffee Bern will be off to visit his Mum while I flip round with a duster. Today's weather - as Pa Larkin would say, "Perfick." We've had an hour in the garden this afternoon pruning things and wondering wether to plant more spring bulbs and what to put in the large pot that usually has tulips - might be time for a change this year. Just as we were debating a cup-of-tea moment Jay and Lesley arrived - excellent timing. They were doing a harvest visit bringing radishes, tomatoes, French beans, cucumber and carrots from their garden - it's lovely to receive freebies, so thanks very much Pattingham Peeps.
6th September 2014
I've been on a long trip down memory lane today - I bumped into someone on Facebook who was a playmate way back in the 1940s. Her family lived a few doors down from us and we spent our childhood playing together, trundling our old fashioned dolls' prams together and generally being 100% buddies. Her name is Beryl Edwards (nee Herbert). I found her on Facebook, clicked the 'be my friend' button and hey presto the years fell away. It's amazing how once you've tuned in loads of memories come flooding back. Beryl and I found a special place to play at the bottom of her back garden. It was an abandoned hen-house and we squeezed ourselves in there spending many happy hours playing house. We called it the 'Little House' and we wall papered the inside with newspaper. A box for a table upon which sat the piece de resistance. An ornament - a nude lady which we considered 'rude'. It was a 1930s type thing and I recall that it was green, sometimes we put clothes on it just for decency. It took pride of place on our fabric remnant of a tablecloth. It all sounds quite crazy now. When we meet up I'll ask her if she remembers it and the long summers we spent playing in the fields and a place we called "down the brook". When they built a new junior school in Bilbrook, most of my contemporaries moved from St Nicholas to the new Lane Green Primary but as I'd only one year to go before senior school my parents decided I should stay at St Nicks and inevitably, as our social circles changed, Beryl and I saw less of each other but I do remember attending her wedding some years later.
I've been on a long trip down memory lane today - I bumped into someone on Facebook who was a playmate way back in the 1940s. Her family lived a few doors down from us and we spent our childhood playing together, trundling our old fashioned dolls' prams together and generally being 100% buddies. Her name is Beryl Edwards (nee Herbert). I found her on Facebook, clicked the 'be my friend' button and hey presto the years fell away. It's amazing how once you've tuned in loads of memories come flooding back. Beryl and I found a special place to play at the bottom of her back garden. It was an abandoned hen-house and we squeezed ourselves in there spending many happy hours playing house. We called it the 'Little House' and we wall papered the inside with newspaper. A box for a table upon which sat the piece de resistance. An ornament - a nude lady which we considered 'rude'. It was a 1930s type thing and I recall that it was green, sometimes we put clothes on it just for decency. It took pride of place on our fabric remnant of a tablecloth. It all sounds quite crazy now. When we meet up I'll ask her if she remembers it and the long summers we spent playing in the fields and a place we called "down the brook". When they built a new junior school in Bilbrook, most of my contemporaries moved from St Nicholas to the new Lane Green Primary but as I'd only one year to go before senior school my parents decided I should stay at St Nicks and inevitably, as our social circles changed, Beryl and I saw less of each other but I do remember attending her wedding some years later.
5th September 2014
Sorry I'm a bit late today - I've been twiddling with Twitter. I have an account but still can't get enthusiastic about it. Anyone else a Twitter fan? Then I had to listen to Woman's Hour on Radio 4 - you can see how easily I waste the days but Jenny Murray is good company and I enjoyed her interview with the author of "Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit" by Jeannette Winterson - written 30 years ago and still going strong - a book I enjoyed. I'm such a slob - sweet papers are gathering on my desk, I'm sucking boiled fruit sweets to aid my thoughts. I've saved the green one until last - my favourite flavour. I just found this on my cousin's Facebook page - thanks Liz. If you're female and the cemetery side of sixty, click on this link http://www.metaspoon.com/older-ladies-donnalou/#A7XVh0PY9HHDsiGd.01 |
Are you planning to visit the Abotts Bromley Horn Dance? I'm unsure which day but it's due to take place this weekend - Sunday or Monday I think. Here's what the official waffle has to say...
"The Abbots Bromley Horn Dance was first performed in1226. Today the Horn Dance, which takes place annually on Wakes Monday, offers a fascinating day out attracting visitors from all over the world. After collecting the horns from the church at eight o'clock in the morning, the Horn Dancers comprising six Deer-men, a Fool, Hobby Horse, Bowman and Maid Marian, perform their dance to music provided by a melodian player at locations throughout the village and its surrounding farms and pubs. A walk of about 10 miles (or 16 kilometres). The horns are returned to the church in the evening. Attractions during the day include exhibitions, craft stalls and, of course, the local pubs. |
Bern's about to lash out on knew gnashers. Our dentist doesn't do NHS choppers and has quoted £800 for a set of dentures. Teeth grindingly painful news and surely calls for a rendition of the Pam Ayres' poem "Oh I Wish I'd Looked After Me Teeth." I reckon we've discovered the literal meaning of putting your money where your mouth is!
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4th September 2014
Another quiet day in the offing but Carol is coming after work today giving me a nice chance to chat. I've been hooking again and made this little scarf in a wavy sort of stitch. It's quite long because it started out as a blanket or throw but I quickly became bored with it as it was taking ages to complete one row. So I shoved some tassels on each end and called it a scarf. If you think you've seen a rainbow walking up the street it'll probably be little me. You can find the pattern for this stitch at http://www.attic24.typepad.com Look under Lucy's "Ta Dah Moments" list for Ripple Blanket. Do you like roast veg? - last night I did roasted beetroot (from Carol and Gary's garden so it was a freebie). I looked on the internet and found that you can do it by wrapping it in foil and then roasting it in the oven. You have to leave it intact to prevent it bleeding (wash it and chop off the leaves. You remove the skin once its cooked. It was lovely. In case you're wondering, we had it with fish and other veg. I hope the sun manages to break through this morning's cloud covering, I need to do some dead-heading in the garden. But it's time for toast now... |
3rd September 2014
I've just been reading some calendar facts and I'm wondering, do we really know what the date is? On this day in 1752 Britain switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar by designating 3rd September as 14th September. They ditched 11 days just like that. There must have been a load of folk who missed out on their birthday that year. There must have been numerous little complications resulting from this at the time. Calendar matters have chopped and changed over hundreds of years - I suspect the true date has been lost in the mists of time - not that it matters, we have to call today something, so I guess 3rd September will do. Now that was a load of pointless prattle and I think this is where I came in. I'm off to grab a slice of toast.
At yesterday's writers' get-together Cora pointed out that the Express & Star is currently running a short story and poetry competition. We agreed that we'd all try to submit something. I've just winged my story to them via e-mail and Cora has already sent hers. Fingers crossed and good luck everyone.
I've just been reading some calendar facts and I'm wondering, do we really know what the date is? On this day in 1752 Britain switched from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar by designating 3rd September as 14th September. They ditched 11 days just like that. There must have been a load of folk who missed out on their birthday that year. There must have been numerous little complications resulting from this at the time. Calendar matters have chopped and changed over hundreds of years - I suspect the true date has been lost in the mists of time - not that it matters, we have to call today something, so I guess 3rd September will do. Now that was a load of pointless prattle and I think this is where I came in. I'm off to grab a slice of toast.
At yesterday's writers' get-together Cora pointed out that the Express & Star is currently running a short story and poetry competition. We agreed that we'd all try to submit something. I've just winged my story to them via e-mail and Cora has already sent hers. Fingers crossed and good luck everyone.
2nd September 2014
It's a lovely morning here - I even took my first cup of tea outside to look at the little cyclamen. (Lousy grammar - I did the looking not the tea). They're in bloom again. For years I've thought we harboured some sort of super-cyclamen because they flowered twice - spring and autumn. I've finally unraveled the mystery - not exactly a Sherlock task I've just done a bit of reading about cyclamen to get to the bottom of my bubble-brain muddle. The fact is, I've planted Cyclamen hederifolium AND Cyclamen coum, I recall buying them at two different times but I obviously hadn't paid attention to the details and thought they were one and the same. So to those whom I've boasted about our twice-flowering wonder plants, my apologies. My reading matter says don't plant them together as C.hederifolium will overpower C.coum. Oops!
It's a lovely morning here - I even took my first cup of tea outside to look at the little cyclamen. (Lousy grammar - I did the looking not the tea). They're in bloom again. For years I've thought we harboured some sort of super-cyclamen because they flowered twice - spring and autumn. I've finally unraveled the mystery - not exactly a Sherlock task I've just done a bit of reading about cyclamen to get to the bottom of my bubble-brain muddle. The fact is, I've planted Cyclamen hederifolium AND Cyclamen coum, I recall buying them at two different times but I obviously hadn't paid attention to the details and thought they were one and the same. So to those whom I've boasted about our twice-flowering wonder plants, my apologies. My reading matter says don't plant them together as C.hederifolium will overpower C.coum. Oops!
My car is in for an MoT this morning - I'm hoping it will be ready by late morning in time for me to join members of the writers' group - they are meeting for lunch at Albrighton Garden Centre - a pre-new term social gathering. The children have gone back to school today. I'm picturing all the newbies facing their day with trepidation. I can remember my first day at school up at St Nicholas - the old building behind the church (now a private house). The kids today would laugh if I tried to explain about the box thing with a covering of sand. You shook the sand level and then practised writing letters and numbers with a stick in the sand. There's a mighty chasm between that and the technology at their disposal today. I think the worst atrocity we faced was being taught to knit a dishcloth. Five years old and having to knit a bloody dishcloth - how much fun is that? How easily I digress - soz. Yes, I've taken up text speak - words such as soz and tomoz, appalling aren't they but they come up on the predictive text facility on my phone - I wonder if they've entered our language officially.
I made it to the garden centre, albeit an hour or so late, but time enough for some happy chatting.
An historic event on 2nd September: 1666 the Great Fire of London started in Pudding Lane and raged for several days. We owe thanks to diarists of the day for documentation of this event: Samuel Pepys (1633-1703) and John Evelyn (1620-1706).
I made it to the garden centre, albeit an hour or so late, but time enough for some happy chatting.
An historic event on 2nd September: 1666 the Great Fire of London started in Pudding Lane and raged for several days. We owe thanks to diarists of the day for documentation of this event: Samuel Pepys (1633-1703) and John Evelyn (1620-1706).
1st September 2014
I was just about to start chatting to you when Jose rang. She wants to come round for half an hour. I've been buzzing round this morning, down to the bank and then up to the hairdressers who can't fit me in until 1.30, so it's becoming a back and forth sort of day with B-all getting done. Oops... first of the month.... White Rabbits (I almost forgot to say it). Did you know the Anglo-Saxons called September Gerstmonath - meaning barley month? I don't know why we still call it September - sept meaning seven and named when September was the seventh month of the old Roman calendar - quite inappropriate now. We could do with a word that means ninth month or we could go back to using Gerstmonath. I think Barley Month is quite fitting for September and all things harvest.
1st September 1939 Germany invaded Poland marking the beginning of World War II. Also on this day BBC regular TV transmission was shut down in the middle of a Mickey Mouse cartoon because they feared transmissions could aid navigation for enemy bombers. Instead, the new wartime Home Service programme began on the radio. I remember a deep and sombre voice on the radio when we were getting ready to go to school that said.... "This is the BBC Home Service...." I've just seen Jose's car approaching - back later.
Jose's been and gone - she wanted to tell me all about Maxwell's recent wedding - I've also had my hair trimmed and look less witch-like for the time being, and then I called at the Co-op. Yes, it's definitely been an itty-bitty day of ever decreasing circles.
I was just about to start chatting to you when Jose rang. She wants to come round for half an hour. I've been buzzing round this morning, down to the bank and then up to the hairdressers who can't fit me in until 1.30, so it's becoming a back and forth sort of day with B-all getting done. Oops... first of the month.... White Rabbits (I almost forgot to say it). Did you know the Anglo-Saxons called September Gerstmonath - meaning barley month? I don't know why we still call it September - sept meaning seven and named when September was the seventh month of the old Roman calendar - quite inappropriate now. We could do with a word that means ninth month or we could go back to using Gerstmonath. I think Barley Month is quite fitting for September and all things harvest.
1st September 1939 Germany invaded Poland marking the beginning of World War II. Also on this day BBC regular TV transmission was shut down in the middle of a Mickey Mouse cartoon because they feared transmissions could aid navigation for enemy bombers. Instead, the new wartime Home Service programme began on the radio. I remember a deep and sombre voice on the radio when we were getting ready to go to school that said.... "This is the BBC Home Service...." I've just seen Jose's car approaching - back later.
Jose's been and gone - she wanted to tell me all about Maxwell's recent wedding - I've also had my hair trimmed and look less witch-like for the time being, and then I called at the Co-op. Yes, it's definitely been an itty-bitty day of ever decreasing circles.
31st August 2014
It looks like being a very quiet day with nothing much to report. All the family seem occupied with their various pursuits while we just potter about and maybe later nod off for a moment while ploughing through the weekend papers. I'm still dipping into the writers' group summer read - "The Stories" by Ann Gardam. It's a collection of short stories all previously published in various magazines. I'm quite enjoying it, a good example of contemporary short story writing. Had a tiny moment of deja vu just then so apologies if I've banged on about this book before. We're having porridge this morning so I'm just going down to get the gloop going. Back later. On a whim we whizzed over to Shrewsbury this afternoon to see Carol and Gary. The countryside was a joy in the warm sunshine. The corn cut, fields were newly ploughed and looking neat and tidy ready for winter. Roadside drifts of Rosebay willowherb stood tall with their autumnal signs of fluffy seedheads ready to float away. The trees, though still leafy, displayed daubs of autumn colour and the Wrekin was it's usual green and lumpy self. I'm fond of this big mound, you always know you're not far from home when the Wrekin comes into view. Gary and Jon were glued to the football on TV (surprise surprise) Carol and I attacked an overgrown flower border while Bern just sat and enjoyed the sun.... oh, and ate scones and jam. |
30th August 2014
Ta-dah! Woolly Bunny has hopped into being. As yet un-named. Rather a twee exercise but it helps me tolerate telly programmes if I've something to fiddle with. The face is more rattish than rabbit, I think I should have been more careful with the stuffing and given her some chubby chops by bulging out the cheeks. Jay popped in yesterday afternoon - he was on a rest day before doing weekend shifts. The Burma expedition plans are progressing, more hotels booked along their route. Today is the anniversary of Cleopatra's Asp bite. Her death and that of Mark Anthony came about by misinformation. Mark Anthony committed suicide after receiving a false report of Cleopatra's death and she subsequently allowed herself to be bitten by a snake rather then be carried off to Rome as a trophy of victory. Aren't you glad we have instant communication methods these days? |
29th August 2014
We should call this day Zip Day - Judson Whitcomb (US) patented an early form on today's date 1893. He invented his fastener for the purpose fastening one's shoes with one hand. (I wonder what you were supposed to do with the other hand while you fastened your shoes). Anyway, it wasn't very successful but later Gideon Sundback (Swiss) improved on it and hey presto - we had the zip fastener which was first used on clothing and gear during World War I and it soon became an indispensable 'must-have'. How's that for trivia personified? Don't know how we've managed all these years without knowing zip beginnings. |
Did you watch Great British Bake Off the other night? And did you see that chap chucking his Baked Alaska in the bin? Can't say I blame him, what else can you do with liquid ice cream? Actually, I have a painting of yesterday that's followed the same route.
Another 'first' on today's date is the institution of "The Ashes" in 1882. I must be in Cuckoo Land as I've always imagined that the funny little Ashes trophy contained the ashes of something - a cindered cricket bat or burnt out bails but I've looked it up and this is not the case. The term 'Ashes' was first used after England lost to Australia for the first time on home soil at the Oval on 29th August 1882. Next day the Sporting Times ran a mock obituary of English cricket concluding with "...the body will be cremated and the ashes taken to Australia..." The sporting public liked the concept and when, a few weeks later, an English team set off to tour Australia they vowed to return with "the ashes". It's quite amusing, (creased me up actually) that the ashes are a mere euphemism for light-hearted banter that took place years ago. This maiden is bowled over - it's the wicket sense of humour that grabs me.
28th August 2014
I'm gazing through my window and everywhere looks rain-washed again. The weather people are saying summer may be back next week - I do hope so. I've just watched a milk float come down the road and there was only one house taking a delivery. How times have changed - and do they still call them floats? I'm guilty of getting milk from the supermarket and tell myself change is inevitable. Mind you, the modern milk float I've just seen didn't have that familiar rattle of glass bottles letting you know what time of day it is... everything was swish, smooth and silent. I remember when I was very small and stayed at my Gran's in Church Road, Codsall, the milk was delivered by Mr Jeffreys in his pony and cart. My Gran left a big jug on the front step and the fresh-as-could-be milk was dispensed via the metal measures that dangled in the dusty air from the back of the cart. The full jug would sit on the front step until someone remembered to bring it in. We'd be having hygiene hysterics at such a scenario these days so I'll remove my rose-tinted specs. I think I prefer my plastic bottle with its low-fat, homogenized, TB tested, well-processed contents and tell-tale sell-by date.
I'm gazing through my window and everywhere looks rain-washed again. The weather people are saying summer may be back next week - I do hope so. I've just watched a milk float come down the road and there was only one house taking a delivery. How times have changed - and do they still call them floats? I'm guilty of getting milk from the supermarket and tell myself change is inevitable. Mind you, the modern milk float I've just seen didn't have that familiar rattle of glass bottles letting you know what time of day it is... everything was swish, smooth and silent. I remember when I was very small and stayed at my Gran's in Church Road, Codsall, the milk was delivered by Mr Jeffreys in his pony and cart. My Gran left a big jug on the front step and the fresh-as-could-be milk was dispensed via the metal measures that dangled in the dusty air from the back of the cart. The full jug would sit on the front step until someone remembered to bring it in. We'd be having hygiene hysterics at such a scenario these days so I'll remove my rose-tinted specs. I think I prefer my plastic bottle with its low-fat, homogenized, TB tested, well-processed contents and tell-tale sell-by date.
We have a message from Rene - she's responded to my milkman thoughts and left us a poem she learnt 81 years ago - what a memory!
Clink, clink, clinkety clink
The milkman's on his rounds I think.
Crunch, crunch come the milkman's feet
Closer and closer along the street.
Then clink, clink, clinkety clink,
He's left our bottles of milk to drink. (Poem learnt in the infants school - 1933)
Clink, clink, clinkety clink
The milkman's on his rounds I think.
Crunch, crunch come the milkman's feet
Closer and closer along the street.
Then clink, clink, clinkety clink,
He's left our bottles of milk to drink. (Poem learnt in the infants school - 1933)
I spent the latter half of this morning doing the watercolour painting - it's turned out to be quite pathetic so it's en route to the bin right now. I stuffed the bunny's head yesterday evening - however, I've quite an aversion to all things decapitated so I'm going to stuff it's body now and put it's head in place. I told it to smile but it must have cloth ears.
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27th August 2014
Gosh, I'm a plonker. I've just noticed that for two days I'd been in 2015 - I've now corrected the dates. I bet you thought I was doing 'Back to the Future' but it's merely a case of old lady battiness. When I log on in a morning I always check the site stats. Couldn't believe my eyes this morning - we had two short of 600 visitors yesterday - I don't know that many people so do let us know if you are from far flung corners of the earth and I'd like to say "hello and welcome" to you all. Just going down to have some toast now - my friend Hilary is calling in this morning for coffee and a chat. I'll be back later.
I've emptied the dishwasher and stuffed some things into the washing machine whilst pondering a painting I might do. I must get going again before the bristles drop out of my brushes. My favourite contemporary artist is Shirley Trevena. She works in watercolour, mainly still life. She does extraordinary things with colour and composition. Her paintings move into the abstract - I find them exciting and vibrant. Have a look, I'd be interested to know what you think. http://www.shirleytrevena.com I've read her book "Vibrant Watercolours" and I'm thinking of having a go at this style with Jay and Les's magenta gladioli as my starting point. I've photographed them as they're sure to deteriorate before I get going. If it works I'll post it here, if not it'll disappear into the bin before you can say Pablo Picasso.
Hilary has been - coffee and chat and then we had a lovely time going through her holiday pictures. Mac had put them on a memory stick so we viewed them on the computer. They had a fantastic holiday in Tuscany - great photographs Mac, especially the ones of fireflies.
Gosh, I'm a plonker. I've just noticed that for two days I'd been in 2015 - I've now corrected the dates. I bet you thought I was doing 'Back to the Future' but it's merely a case of old lady battiness. When I log on in a morning I always check the site stats. Couldn't believe my eyes this morning - we had two short of 600 visitors yesterday - I don't know that many people so do let us know if you are from far flung corners of the earth and I'd like to say "hello and welcome" to you all. Just going down to have some toast now - my friend Hilary is calling in this morning for coffee and a chat. I'll be back later.
I've emptied the dishwasher and stuffed some things into the washing machine whilst pondering a painting I might do. I must get going again before the bristles drop out of my brushes. My favourite contemporary artist is Shirley Trevena. She works in watercolour, mainly still life. She does extraordinary things with colour and composition. Her paintings move into the abstract - I find them exciting and vibrant. Have a look, I'd be interested to know what you think. http://www.shirleytrevena.com I've read her book "Vibrant Watercolours" and I'm thinking of having a go at this style with Jay and Les's magenta gladioli as my starting point. I've photographed them as they're sure to deteriorate before I get going. If it works I'll post it here, if not it'll disappear into the bin before you can say Pablo Picasso.
Hilary has been - coffee and chat and then we had a lovely time going through her holiday pictures. Mac had put them on a memory stick so we viewed them on the computer. They had a fantastic holiday in Tuscany - great photographs Mac, especially the ones of fireflies.
Rabbit rabbit rabbit - a moment of bunny talk: head, body, limbs, tail, ears, shoes are all done. I still have its dress to do. It's not a crouching cuddly round hoppy bunny, it's more of an elegant striped-stockings upright girl bunny who wears a spotted dress and has rather large sticky-up ears. I'll ask her to pose for a picture as soon as she draws breath. I have a bag of stuffing ready to put life into her.
26th August 2014
Hello - a bit damp again isn't it? I've been having a good laugh at the antics of my family on Facebook this morning - I've seen my nephew Phil Bryett Jnr, Alistair, Jay, grandson Ian, his partner Jenny, and Melanie doing their ice water challenges. Just watching them made me shiver but well done all you brave young things. I see it was Phil who challenged Jay so a bit of inter-service rivalry crept in; i.e. Royal Marines v. RAF Regiment. Phil had very nobly done a double deluge - two buckets instead of the obligatory one. Jay had to top this by doing three. These ice events have "gone viral" - I believe that's the expression when something spreads like wildfire these days. All done in aid of charity - great stuff everyone, you're all wonderful. I've just been outside to do my own ice water challenge (well sort of, it was wet and cold) the big grass by the bin again. I've braved the elements and tied it back so I can get to the bin without taking a shower. I checked for elephants before getting too close. I was a bit bored yesterday afternoon so I got my wool out again and starting some knitting. Bern asked what I was making so I said "a rabbit," which rendered him speechless. Anyway, I'll show you a pic if and when it gets finished. You might ask why I'm knitting a rabbit but I don't know the answer to that - it will have to remain a mystery of my subconscious. I saw the pattern on one of the blogs I like reading on the Internet - here's a link if you fancy seeing the source of my inspiration: (http://www.littlecottonrabbits.typepad.co.uk). Only two disasters so far today: firstly I noticed the milk was out of date after I'd drunk my tea (I'm a slave to sell-by dates). Then I realised I'd forgotten to arrange an MoT for my car. Both problems now resolved. We have a message in from Maggie: she too has fallen prey to the animal magic and has found herself knitting an elephant simply because the pattern presented itself unexpectedly. It's uncanny how Maggie and I often operate in parallel and know nothing about it until we compare notes later - it must be a 'wavelength' thing.
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25th August 2014
A damp squib of a day, quite unsuitable for a bank holiday. I've halfheartedly flicked a duster while Bern insists on doing all the vacuuming. My disagreeable task this morning was to dispense 'stuff' into the appropriate bins. Years ago I had the brilliant notion of planting a clump of gigantic grass (it grows to about 6 ft) close to the bins - the idea was that it would take one's eye off them. It's rained, the grass is heavy with water and leans over at a considerable angle. So this this morning putting 'stuff' in the bins entailed squeezing past the tall wet grass and getting thoroughly soaked so I'm as damp as the day. Hang on a mo - Bern's buzzing round my feet with the dreaded sucker upper - he's a demon when let loose with a nozzle. When he's doing my den I have to leap about to stand on each corner of the rug (clockwise direction) - the vacuum is pretty brusque and lifts the rug - he's devised this little system and I have to go with it - it'd be churlish not to.
Bern reads the Express & Star online - he's just yelled to me across the landing that they're going to enforce the 'No Spitting' law in Cannock with a £50 fine. Any anti-social act involving body fluids, should become an absolute NO-NO worldwide now we have things like Ebola on the loose.
A damp squib of a day, quite unsuitable for a bank holiday. I've halfheartedly flicked a duster while Bern insists on doing all the vacuuming. My disagreeable task this morning was to dispense 'stuff' into the appropriate bins. Years ago I had the brilliant notion of planting a clump of gigantic grass (it grows to about 6 ft) close to the bins - the idea was that it would take one's eye off them. It's rained, the grass is heavy with water and leans over at a considerable angle. So this this morning putting 'stuff' in the bins entailed squeezing past the tall wet grass and getting thoroughly soaked so I'm as damp as the day. Hang on a mo - Bern's buzzing round my feet with the dreaded sucker upper - he's a demon when let loose with a nozzle. When he's doing my den I have to leap about to stand on each corner of the rug (clockwise direction) - the vacuum is pretty brusque and lifts the rug - he's devised this little system and I have to go with it - it'd be churlish not to.
Bern reads the Express & Star online - he's just yelled to me across the landing that they're going to enforce the 'No Spitting' law in Cannock with a £50 fine. Any anti-social act involving body fluids, should become an absolute NO-NO worldwide now we have things like Ebola on the loose.
24th August 2014
Carol and Gary will be home today - we chatted on the phone yesterday. They had contemplated going to the Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle on their final eveninbg but considered £70 per ticket a bit expensive. They'd looked on the Internet for tickets and that was the price of the available few. They can see the lit-up castle from their apartment and have enjoyed watching all the military personnel marching out after the performances. They're already thinking of booking again for next year's festival and tattoo. Seems like they enjoy heathery Haggis-land, shortbread and all things tartan. Och ay! |
Brrr I'm finding it chilly today - I've just seen my neighbour trotting out in a sleeveless dress so it must be my old bones that are feeling overly sensitive. We've had a very lazy day - that's not quite true: I've had a very lazy day and fell asleep on the sofa, when I awoke Bern had done the ironing. See how spoiled I am. We've saved the excitement of buzzing round with the upstairs & downstairs vacuum cleaners for tomorrow.
I forgot to mention yesterday that I've had an e-mail from Cafelit (a website that publishes 100-word stories). One of mine was selected some time ago. Anyway, long and short of it is, one of my 100-worders is going to be in a book called "The Best of Cafelit 2013" - a miniscule teensy weensy publishing success. I can't cope with the fame....
I forgot to mention yesterday that I've had an e-mail from Cafelit (a website that publishes 100-word stories). One of mine was selected some time ago. Anyway, long and short of it is, one of my 100-worders is going to be in a book called "The Best of Cafelit 2013" - a miniscule teensy weensy publishing success. I can't cope with the fame....
23rd August 2014
I've spent ages watching the birds this morning - all week we've had busy flurries of long tailed tits on the birds feeders. Carol's just phoned - they travel home tomorrow all festivalled out by now I would think. She's talking about booking again for next year they've had such an enjoyable time and loads of laughs. Hope they don't arrive home to a week's worth of washing up. I'd better give Jonathan a ring just in case... |
Jay and Lesley called in this afternoon bringing lovely flowers - some statuesque purple gladioli (which always remind me of Dame Edna) and some white lilies. What a lovely treat. I enquired about the Burma trip and they told me flights are booked and the hotel for their first few days. They're still map-studying before working out the rest of their plans.
22nd August 2014
Nothing much to report today - I'm having a couple of quiet days. Many thanks for all the lovely messages posted here. I've finally made a start on the writers' group 'summer read' book. It's a book of short stories so I'll take in a few more before forming an opinion. I've been thinking about the new term for writers' group and art class - I'll have to confess to Roland that I haven't picked up a paintbrush all summer. The weather forecast is not good for the bank holiday - disappointing if you have things planned. Jay and Lesley are currently planning a trip to Burma, they'll be fully absorbed from now on working out their travel itinerary. I've just heard the kettle whistling - I think Bern's making coffee - just the job. Phone rang as the coffee arrived - it was Jose. We chatted and she too owned up to not having squeezed a tube of paint. |
21st August 2014
Well I'm happy to say yesterday is in the past. I'll spare you the graphic details (audible sighs of relief sweep across the land - a gut reaction I'm sure). It wasn't exactly a picnic but do-able because the medical staff were so kind. I'm happy to say there's no cancer - the surgeon told me they'd removed several polyps and there is a large area of diverticulitis. So that's that, and as Jay would say, "sorted". I promise not to bore you with my entrails any further so what shall we talk about now? Carol's disappointed because they couldn't get tickets for the Tim Vine show - Jay has had to dash off to Portsmouth this morning to interview someone (he's wise enough not to tell me the details so there's no interesting beans to spill).
Apologies to Jack: I forgot to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY on the proper day as I was too preoccupied with my innards. So belated happy birthday to Jack xxx (Lesley's Dad).
Another message in from Carol: they've been to yet another theatre and were within nodding distance of Jeremy Paxman. It looks like they're doing the Ed Fest with gusto.
Well I'm happy to say yesterday is in the past. I'll spare you the graphic details (audible sighs of relief sweep across the land - a gut reaction I'm sure). It wasn't exactly a picnic but do-able because the medical staff were so kind. I'm happy to say there's no cancer - the surgeon told me they'd removed several polyps and there is a large area of diverticulitis. So that's that, and as Jay would say, "sorted". I promise not to bore you with my entrails any further so what shall we talk about now? Carol's disappointed because they couldn't get tickets for the Tim Vine show - Jay has had to dash off to Portsmouth this morning to interview someone (he's wise enough not to tell me the details so there's no interesting beans to spill).
Apologies to Jack: I forgot to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY on the proper day as I was too preoccupied with my innards. So belated happy birthday to Jack xxx (Lesley's Dad).
Another message in from Carol: they've been to yet another theatre and were within nodding distance of Jeremy Paxman. It looks like they're doing the Ed Fest with gusto.
Have you been watching the series of Michael Wood programmes about the Anglo-Saxons? The most recent one featured our area, taking in Tamworth, Stafford, Wolverhampton and Wednesfield. It was Jay who got me interested in these ancient times. He's a great fan of the Bernard Cornwell novels set in the time of King Alfred and the Viking invasions. Inevitably I was urged to read some of them. It was Alfred's daughter, Aethelfled who became Queen of the Mercians (that's us) and who, according to Michael Wood, set England on the path to becoming a nation of note.
The Wolverhampton Pillar is the shaft of an Anglo-Saxon High Cross, still standing in its original location in the churchyard of St Peter's Collegiate Church, Wolverhampton. It is an ancient monument probably dating from around AD 996. The decoration is an extremely rare type. It consists of seven bands, depicting vine scrolls, various animals, acanthus, and lattice-work. |
20th August 2014
An early call this morning - have to be off soon so this is just a quick 'good morning' while Bern's having a wash. Thanks Ann, Doreen, Denise, Maggie, Thelma, Carol and Jay for your kind messages. We had a couple of texts from Carol last night - they seem to be rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous in Edinburgh. She said Josie Lawrence (actress) sat next to her in a theatre and yesterday evening they attended the same pub as Rory McGrath. Sounds like they're on a celeb-spotting mission. Back later - have to dash.
An early call this morning - have to be off soon so this is just a quick 'good morning' while Bern's having a wash. Thanks Ann, Doreen, Denise, Maggie, Thelma, Carol and Jay for your kind messages. We had a couple of texts from Carol last night - they seem to be rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous in Edinburgh. She said Josie Lawrence (actress) sat next to her in a theatre and yesterday evening they attended the same pub as Rory McGrath. Sounds like they're on a celeb-spotting mission. Back later - have to dash.
19th August 2014
Sorry folks, I'm a miserable soul today. I'm hungry and feel like I'm wasting away. I can't have anything to eat until I get back from the hospital tomorrow. I have to be there by 8.30 am so there won't be much time to bemoan my fate in the morning. I haven't been much interested in food of late but the moment my 9 am food ban began I suddenly felt hungry and images of everything nice crept into my head. I'll not be eating up the time with alacrity today - misery for main course and grumpiness for afters. Time for a boot up the backside - telling myself to stop whinging as I face the bucket-load of gunk I have to swallow.
Sorry folks, I'm a miserable soul today. I'm hungry and feel like I'm wasting away. I can't have anything to eat until I get back from the hospital tomorrow. I have to be there by 8.30 am so there won't be much time to bemoan my fate in the morning. I haven't been much interested in food of late but the moment my 9 am food ban began I suddenly felt hungry and images of everything nice crept into my head. I'll not be eating up the time with alacrity today - misery for main course and grumpiness for afters. Time for a boot up the backside - telling myself to stop whinging as I face the bucket-load of gunk I have to swallow.
Text message just in from Carol - they're in a self-catering apartment in Edinburgh to take in the Festival - Gary is cooking haggis for breakfast. How gross is that? Even though I'm hungry I'll give that one a miss. What does one eat with haggis? Egg and haggis just doesn't have an appetizing ring somehow. Maybe it's eaten alone - a mighty mound of grey oaty-groaty. Ugh! Bring on the bagpipes and a plate of shortbread.
Talking of Edinburgh Festival - I see Tim Vine has won this year's quick-fire one-liner joke award with "I decided to sell my Hoover... well it was just collecting dust." |
18th August 2014
Good morning - here we are in the middle of another Monday. I have half an ear on the radio at the moment, there's a great programme on Radio 4 called "Recycled Radio". Today's offering comprises an eclectic collection of clips that respond to the theme of what is art? It's a collage of cuttings featuring well known critics and artists airing their opinions about a diverse range of artists and their works. Food for thought on many levels.
I've had clothes-pegs poised all morning but the showers are furious and frequent - I'm just waiting for a suitable window of opportunity. And having made that statement, I begin thinking modern day metaphors are becoming stupidly pretentious; what's wrong with "I'm waiting for the rain to stop?"
Good morning - here we are in the middle of another Monday. I have half an ear on the radio at the moment, there's a great programme on Radio 4 called "Recycled Radio". Today's offering comprises an eclectic collection of clips that respond to the theme of what is art? It's a collage of cuttings featuring well known critics and artists airing their opinions about a diverse range of artists and their works. Food for thought on many levels.
I've had clothes-pegs poised all morning but the showers are furious and frequent - I'm just waiting for a suitable window of opportunity. And having made that statement, I begin thinking modern day metaphors are becoming stupidly pretentious; what's wrong with "I'm waiting for the rain to stop?"
I've had a look round to see if 18th August has claim to a particular happening - all I could find is that in 1941 the National Fire Service came into being on this day. I sup-hose we all know that it's now known as The Fire & Rescue Service. Whilst on this subject - Codsall fire station has gone, recently demolished, just a pile of rubble and the dust has settled on the mighty gap where it once stood. Panic not - it's going to be rebuilt - bigger and better with all things modern.
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Bern and a number of old friends were members of the first ever crew at Codsall. For 23 years our lives revolved around the Retained Fire Service. It became quite a family sort of place because as the men were "on call" during their out of work hours from their full time jobs it meant a conventional social life was impossible - so wives and kids met at the fire station for social events. That sort of thing doesn't happen now and I bet there's no way the women will be allowed to take over the engine bay for their tap dancing classes as we did in the "good old days".
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17th August 2014
A quiet weekend for us - most of the family are still doing holidays and visits elsewhere. I'm not enjoying the cooler temperatures, maybe it will warm up again before the season is finally over. There's absolutely nothing to report so I've been round the garden and taken some pics of what's out there at the moment to bring me moments of pleasure.
A quiet weekend for us - most of the family are still doing holidays and visits elsewhere. I'm not enjoying the cooler temperatures, maybe it will warm up again before the season is finally over. There's absolutely nothing to report so I've been round the garden and taken some pics of what's out there at the moment to bring me moments of pleasure.
16th August 2014
Just in case you're wondering - no, I didn't make the florentines in yesterday's pic but I nearly fooled my friend Maggie. She says her weekly 'must watch' is Long Lost Families, trouble is it has her weeping buckets. There's always much angst and soul-searching for the participants but usually a happy ending. It's one of those programmes that has me feeling like a nosy parker but they've put themselves up for it and let the cameras in, so I guess we can watch without qualms.
Just in case you're wondering - no, I didn't make the florentines in yesterday's pic but I nearly fooled my friend Maggie. She says her weekly 'must watch' is Long Lost Families, trouble is it has her weeping buckets. There's always much angst and soul-searching for the participants but usually a happy ending. It's one of those programmes that has me feeling like a nosy parker but they've put themselves up for it and let the cameras in, so I guess we can watch without qualms.
Ian and Jenny (No 1 grandson) have just spent a week camping on the Gower Coast in wet and windy Wales. Not the best of weather this past week, especially when you're in a tiny green tent. Thank goodness they're grabbing time in warmer climes before the new terms begins - Tunisia I think - a date with the sun.
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15th August 2014
Friday again - another week eaten up by the mundane, but the sun is shining, be glad. I've pegged the whites, pulled some weeds and grieved over the shredded hostas. I inspected them closely and found a minute baby snail on almost every leaf and that's despite a hefty dose of slug pellets plus the copper bands we put round the pots earlier in the year. Does anyone know a foolproof way of hanging onto your hostas? I don't know what I was thinking of on Wednesday evening - I forgot to watch "Great British Bake Off". Last night I found it on BBC Player and set it in motion, then fell asleep in the middle of the Florentines. Crumbs! That takes the biscuit! Carol called in after work yesterday - she and Gary are looking forward to a trip to Scotland and will be taking in the Edinburgh Festival. I suspect we'll be getting a daily travelogue. |
I think I've uncovered the height of boring. While still in bed this morning I inadvertently clicked onto the QVC Channel - I've not watched it before and decided to see what it was all about. Horror of horrors - two women, all heels and hair-dos, walked up and down showing off clothes you wouldn't want to wear. At the same time another two women, both talking at once, delivered mindless prattle about the said garments, endlessly repeating themselves to convince us how nice you can look in a cheap frock, and clocking up 100% in the yawn factor stakes. Quick, where's the remote?
14th August 2014
I've just been listening to the waffle on early morning telly - someone was talking about 'upselling' - apparently it's when you are making a purchase and the assistant asks if you'd like something else e.g. buying coffee and they ask "would you like a biscuit with it?". Seems like 'up' is fast becoming a prefix to many words. In recent days I've come across 'uptalk' and 'upcycling'. Cut a larger slice of cake and I reckon you'll be 'upeating' - an extra tea towel in the washing machine and they'll call it 'upwashing' - gets ridiculous doesn't it?
I've spent time (or maybe wasted time) this morning trying to understand Pinterest - another of the popular social media type facilities that everyone (except me) uses. I'm not sure yet whether I've clicked in all the right places to make it work. From what I can see it's another place to blow your own trumpet and snoop on all and everyone whether you know them or not. I did the virtual "tour" they offer when you sign up and my understanding of it is you find a picture belonging to someone else and pin it on your board - why? It's just a virtual pin board - saves cluttering up your proper walls I suppose. Today's mantra - "Pin it"
I've just been listening to the waffle on early morning telly - someone was talking about 'upselling' - apparently it's when you are making a purchase and the assistant asks if you'd like something else e.g. buying coffee and they ask "would you like a biscuit with it?". Seems like 'up' is fast becoming a prefix to many words. In recent days I've come across 'uptalk' and 'upcycling'. Cut a larger slice of cake and I reckon you'll be 'upeating' - an extra tea towel in the washing machine and they'll call it 'upwashing' - gets ridiculous doesn't it?
I've spent time (or maybe wasted time) this morning trying to understand Pinterest - another of the popular social media type facilities that everyone (except me) uses. I'm not sure yet whether I've clicked in all the right places to make it work. From what I can see it's another place to blow your own trumpet and snoop on all and everyone whether you know them or not. I did the virtual "tour" they offer when you sign up and my understanding of it is you find a picture belonging to someone else and pin it on your board - why? It's just a virtual pin board - saves cluttering up your proper walls I suppose. Today's mantra - "Pin it"
Did you watch last night's programme about 100 year old drivers? I do think some of them would be safer off the road. But it's food for thought and I don't like what I see when I contemplate the day when we can't drive. Some of them on the programme were old enough to have begun driving before the driving test was introduced. 14th August 1893 - France introduced the driving test and licence for male citizens only and they had to be over the age of 21. Those who passed the test were allowed to drive at a max speed of 8 mph. The UK driving test came into being in 1934 but it was voluntary - compulsory testing began in 1935.
13th August 2014
I sat down, stared at the blank screen, and couldn't think of a damn thing to say - back later when the Muse wanders in. (Back again) I have another confession to make this morning... I've become quite bored with my crochet project so I've turned it into a cushion cover and I'm sitting on it in my green typing chair as I speak (metaphorically of course). I guess you could say the crochet now lives where the sun don't shine. The extra height has made typing more comfortable and I've a better view from the window to do some nosing around. Two points to salve my conscience for having given up and anyway, it was getting a bit too rainbow-ish to wear. I don't know why the colours aren't true in this picture, the cushion is actually mostly green and looks OK - less of a pig-in-a-poke than it appears in the picture.
I always thought "pig-in-a-poke" was a Black Country expression. Then I began wondering, what is a poke? You've guessed - I Googled it. A poke is a bag, the word 'pocket' is derived from pokette, meaning small bag. The idiom is used world wide but in most countries they say "cat in a bag" rather than "pig in a bag" but the sentiment is the same. It means you buy something without really seeing it. Now I'm wondering if I've used the expression out of context. I'll give up here and now on this one before I bore the pants off you.
I went into the garden last night to look for meteor showers - no luck, it was too cloudy. Thelma (who comes to writers' group) has left a message about Trysull Art Club's new website. I know some of you will be interested in this so I've put a link on the LINKS TO THIS AND THAT page (available under 'More' in the menu at the top of this page). I've just been outside for nothing more exciting than pegging a bit of washing - the breeze is quite cool reminding me that autumn is round the corner.
I sat down, stared at the blank screen, and couldn't think of a damn thing to say - back later when the Muse wanders in. (Back again) I have another confession to make this morning... I've become quite bored with my crochet project so I've turned it into a cushion cover and I'm sitting on it in my green typing chair as I speak (metaphorically of course). I guess you could say the crochet now lives where the sun don't shine. The extra height has made typing more comfortable and I've a better view from the window to do some nosing around. Two points to salve my conscience for having given up and anyway, it was getting a bit too rainbow-ish to wear. I don't know why the colours aren't true in this picture, the cushion is actually mostly green and looks OK - less of a pig-in-a-poke than it appears in the picture.
I always thought "pig-in-a-poke" was a Black Country expression. Then I began wondering, what is a poke? You've guessed - I Googled it. A poke is a bag, the word 'pocket' is derived from pokette, meaning small bag. The idiom is used world wide but in most countries they say "cat in a bag" rather than "pig in a bag" but the sentiment is the same. It means you buy something without really seeing it. Now I'm wondering if I've used the expression out of context. I'll give up here and now on this one before I bore the pants off you.
I went into the garden last night to look for meteor showers - no luck, it was too cloudy. Thelma (who comes to writers' group) has left a message about Trysull Art Club's new website. I know some of you will be interested in this so I've put a link on the LINKS TO THIS AND THAT page (available under 'More' in the menu at the top of this page). I've just been outside for nothing more exciting than pegging a bit of washing - the breeze is quite cool reminding me that autumn is round the corner.
If you're right-handed this bit is not for your eyes. August 13th is now officially Lefthanders Day. There's a website for the left-handed with all sorts of stuff relevant to them. Maybe they'll let you in if you happen to be ambidextrous and I suppose you could pretend to be left-handed if you really want to look at it.
Here's a link: http://www.lefthandersday.com |
12th August 2014
It's the Glorious Twelfth - the day to go grab a grouse. The race will be on to blast the poor little blighters out of existence in time for serving today's lunch or dinner at up-market restaurants. I guess tweedy types will be out in force trampling the heather having paid a hefty price for the pleasure of disturbing wild life. I have a nephew who is gamekeeper: the birds are bred in huge numbers so rich people can come and shoot them. Some would argue 'that's business', but I'm uneasy with the concept. Having said that I suppose it's no different from the chicken and turkey farmers who provide birds for the supermarket so I'll step down from from my hypocritical soapbox and "zip it" - I'm quite partial to cold chicken with a dab of chutney. I've never eaten grouse, maybe my wellies are the wrong colour. They say we should be able to see the Perseid meteor showers tonight - best time to look is between 10.00 pm and 2.00pm. If you suffer from a spot of insomnia tonight you can look out for shooting stars instead of counting sheep. 12th August 1851 - US inventor and manufacturer IsaacSinger began production of the home sewing machine - I bet he'd be amazed if he could see today's models with their memory functions, bells, whistles and whatsits that think for you.
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11th August 2014
Did you see the moon last night? The weather people said it was what they call a super moon (official term is perigree moon). It means that the moon is at its closest point to earth right now and looks bigger than usual - it was quite splendid. Talking of planets, 11th August 1999 saw the last full solar eclipse of the 20th century - an event we all remember. If you can manage to hang around until September 2090 you'll be able to watch another one - the best place for viewing it is Cornwall. I should book your hotel now, there's bound to be rush.
It's a quiet sort of Monday, I've nothing more exciting to do than collect my shed-load of pills from the chemist. I'll go and do my errands now - back later if anything interesting comes to mind.
Collected the pills, been to the Co-op, pegged the washing, downed my lunch (two Ryvitas and some fruit). Now I'm free to wander round the Internet and soak up some trivia. I've just been reading about 'uptalk' - a word used to describe the habit of using an upward inflection at the end of a sentence thereby making any old statement sound like a question. Language experts say the habit is catching on with young Brits and they can't explain why they're taking it on board. Australians have done it for years and it's apparent in certain regions of America. I must admit I find it very irritating. The great boffin Stephen Fry thinks it pretty awful too.
Did you see the moon last night? The weather people said it was what they call a super moon (official term is perigree moon). It means that the moon is at its closest point to earth right now and looks bigger than usual - it was quite splendid. Talking of planets, 11th August 1999 saw the last full solar eclipse of the 20th century - an event we all remember. If you can manage to hang around until September 2090 you'll be able to watch another one - the best place for viewing it is Cornwall. I should book your hotel now, there's bound to be rush.
It's a quiet sort of Monday, I've nothing more exciting to do than collect my shed-load of pills from the chemist. I'll go and do my errands now - back later if anything interesting comes to mind.
Collected the pills, been to the Co-op, pegged the washing, downed my lunch (two Ryvitas and some fruit). Now I'm free to wander round the Internet and soak up some trivia. I've just been reading about 'uptalk' - a word used to describe the habit of using an upward inflection at the end of a sentence thereby making any old statement sound like a question. Language experts say the habit is catching on with young Brits and they can't explain why they're taking it on board. Australians have done it for years and it's apparent in certain regions of America. I must admit I find it very irritating. The great boffin Stephen Fry thinks it pretty awful too.
10th August 2014
Here's hoping no one gets too battered by Hurricane Bertha - maybe its momentum will reduce as it moves up the country. It's pretty calm in South Staffs at the moment and the sun is promising to appear. Carol and Gary came for coffee this morning so I abandoned the keyboard to gossip. Had a good cake, coffee and chat session and they'd brought me this jolly gerbera. They had news of Jon - he's planning to go to New Zealand in the New Year. Sounds like an exciting trip. I almost forgot to mention: the crochet is on the go again and I've nearly used up all the crinkly yarn. I'm still unsure what it might be but chances are it could turn into a cardigan. At the moment it's just a strip of multi-coloured fabric which is slowly growing. |
It's the Feast Day of St Lawrence today: He was made patron saint of cooks and his emblem is a gridiron. I'm probably quite out of order in considering this a very macabre and gruesome decision as his death involved being grilled over a slow fire. I feel this is pathos verging on bathos and a grisly way to remember him.
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Next time you unscrew a bottle top think of Dan Rylands of Barnsley, Yorkshire. He worked for the Hope Glass Works and on this day in 1889 he patented the screw-top bottle. I wonder if he "popped a cork" to celebrate it's success.
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9th August 2014
Fresh and breezy today here and it's window cleaner day again so I'm up, washed, and dressed at a very un-Saturday hour. Right now the news people are unloading doom and gloom relating to strife and conflict around the world - our planet is never free of war is it? I can't fathom why homo sapiens are classed as the superior being. |
1593 Izaak Walton was born in Stafford on this day in 1593. I've always wondered about the spelling of his famous tome "The Compleat Angler" - it's nothing more unusual than compleat being an archaic form of complete. Having read about him he seems to have been a nice guy. From the Compleat Angler: " No life, my honest scholar, no life so happy and so pleasant as the life of a well-governed angler, for when the lawyer is swallowed up with business, and the statesman is preventing or contriving plots, then we sit on clowslip-banks, hear the birds sing, and possess ourselves in as much quietness as these silver streams, which we now see glide so quietly by us. "
So... grab your grubs and rods and put up a sign... "Gone Fishing" |
I've had a message from Rene asking if I know anyone who can convert music cassettes to a modern format. I've done a bit of exploring and found a Youtube video that shows you how to do it for free - maybe the information is useful to others, so here it is. I've tried putting a link to the video but couldn't make it work. So, in the Youtube search box type "convert music cassettes to DVD" and you get a couple of chaps showing you how to do do it for free. Of course you need a device on which to play the tape. Then all you need to do is download some free software and make up or acquire a connector with an earphones connection on each end. i.e. you have to connect the earphone facility on your tape player to the earphone facility on your computer. You can then transfer the recording and save it to your computer via the free software which is called Audacity. But you need to watch the video if you want to carry out this exercise as they explain it much better than me, especially the bit about the software.
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Jay and Lesley turned up around lunchtime - we managed to find them something to eat while we had a chat session. They'd been to collect the camper van from it's MoT and expensive repairs.
Later on number 2 grandson (Andy) arrived. I smiled to myself when I saw him pull up in his big white plumber's van - pipes apparent - big tuffy tattooed Andy with some white roses for his Granny - they're just lovely. (Oops! sorry about my feet in the picture) |
8th August 2014
I'm gazing through the window watching blue bins being upended into the recycling truck - it's blue and green bins today and I'm wondering if those with colour-blindness have trouble putting the right stuff in the right bin. Bern's asking what I'd like for breakfast so I'll buzz off now - back later when I've downed a slice of toast. We've had a Neighbourhood Watch message about the Fire & Rescue strikes - I've posted times and dates when not to have a fire on the Neighbourhood Watch page Jay rang this morning to see how I was getting on - he was at work and yawning well - no wonder really, he insists on travelling to work by bike. In my book that's like doing a day's work before you get there. He cycles from Pattingham to Harbourne - don't know how far it is but I reckon car, bus or train would be a better mode of transport. He said he'd got a 'paperwork day' today so was confined to the office - what's the betting he nods off at some stage? |
It's the anniversary of the Great Train Robbery today (1963) when Biggs and Co got away with over £2m. They had a country hideout and whilst 'lying low' amused themselves by playing Monopoly with real money. The fingerprints they left on the Monopoly board helped track them down. Not the brightest move was it?
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7th August 2014
Absolutely nothing happening today - other than flicking the switch on the washing machine and pulling a couple of weeds I've been a one hundred per cent lazy bones. Some days you just need to chill. The "Bake Off" programme got off to a good start last night - usual format - and I don't have a yen to eat the results, I'm off food these days. I've whiIed away a good chunk of today unpicking my crochet for the third time - I now have lots of little balls of 'crinkly' yarn. It's anybody's guess what they'll end up being, but I'll let you know if they turn into something presentable.
Absolutely nothing happening today - other than flicking the switch on the washing machine and pulling a couple of weeds I've been a one hundred per cent lazy bones. Some days you just need to chill. The "Bake Off" programme got off to a good start last night - usual format - and I don't have a yen to eat the results, I'm off food these days. I've whiIed away a good chunk of today unpicking my crochet for the third time - I now have lots of little balls of 'crinkly' yarn. It's anybody's guess what they'll end up being, but I'll let you know if they turn into something presentable.
6th August 2014
Back home after a fun morning at New Cross. Underwent lots of prodding and poking and forfeited an armful of blood. They're ringing me tomorrow with an appointment for a colonoscopy - horror of horrors! But I mustn't complain - we have to be thankful we have the opportunity to have our illnesses investigated - some people round the world just don't get that chance. |
After that grisly conversation let's chat about something more interesting. I'm looking forward to "The Great British Bake Off" tonight BBC 1 at 8.00 pm - Mary Berry and her team are due back in the cookery tent.
We've also been recording the old series "As Times Goes By" with Judi Dench and Geoffrey Palmer - it's on most evenings on the Drama Channel. I've suddenly realized the incongruity of cake and colonoscopy talk - hope I haven't put you off your supper. |
We've been up to Bridgemere Garden Centre today, just over the border in Cheshire. I wanted a clump of helenium but they'd sold out - I'm looking for the tall mustard yellow ones. Never mind, I'll find some eventually. I was amused when, as we drove past Tern Hill Army Barracks there was a notice by the crossing declaring "Troops and Children crossing" which seems to indicate military wives are not allowed out.
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4th August 2014
My sister Wendy rang last night - we do an occasional telephone 'catch up'. Her latest news is hens - big fat brown ones - and laying well. So it looks like things are clucking in Caerphilly. |
I've just wasted an hour reading stuff on the Internet - a bad habit I have. I came across the word 'plarn'. I've not heard the word before so was curious and did the usual Google - there's loads of plarn used in USA and Australia. I ended up on You Tube watching plarn being used to make a tote bag. Plarn means plastic yarn - i.e. you collect about 70 plastic bags, cut them into loop strips and join them into one long strip and wind it into a big ball. Then comes the exciting bit - with a large crochet hook you make a bag. Er... it started out as seventy bags and ended up as one bag. I don't quite get it. I think this is what is known as upcycling and maybe I'm just a killjoy.
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On this date 1914 the UK declared war on Germany. Events were precipitated by the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand on 28th June 1914. So much has been written about the glory and futility of war. I'm inclined to side with Harry Patch who summed it up succinctly. He was the last surviving serving soldier of WWI who died at the age of 111. (1898-2009)
1st August 2014
White Rabbits for 1st of the month. Greetings at Lammas if you follow Pagan ways - marking a cross quarter point in the wheel of the year halfway between Midsummer and the Autumn Exqinox. Lammas derived from loaf mass a harvest celebration following the gathering in of crops. Sorry, not much to say today I've been feeling quite rubbish since late yesterday - but hey ho - tomorrow is another day.
White Rabbits for 1st of the month. Greetings at Lammas if you follow Pagan ways - marking a cross quarter point in the wheel of the year halfway between Midsummer and the Autumn Exqinox. Lammas derived from loaf mass a harvest celebration following the gathering in of crops. Sorry, not much to say today I've been feeling quite rubbish since late yesterday - but hey ho - tomorrow is another day.
28th July 2014
I've got stuck into the crochet project (mentioned on the 25th) and it's looking garish. It has the likelihood of being a garment one only wears when feeling rebellious, cantankerous, or just at odds with the world. It's still a 'watch this space' thing at the moment. I've done the bed but must go downstairs now to sort out the dishwasher, washing, and breakfast. Back later.
I've got stuck into the crochet project (mentioned on the 25th) and it's looking garish. It has the likelihood of being a garment one only wears when feeling rebellious, cantankerous, or just at odds with the world. It's still a 'watch this space' thing at the moment. I've done the bed but must go downstairs now to sort out the dishwasher, washing, and breakfast. Back later.
26th July 2014
The windows have been wide all night and cackling magpies had us awake early. While we still had a scrap of energy we set to with our respective vacuum cleaners and carried out the usual frenzy culminating with nozzles at dawn on the stairs. Now we can flop for the rest of the weekend to our hearts' content. I do the upstairs Bosch, a lighter machine while Bern has the downstairs Miele - dust-free floors for a couple of days. After doing a couple more of Ian's poppies I made a start on the crochet project. Then just before going up to bed I decided I didn't like this evening's effort so I unpicked it all and will start again tonight. Just going to get some tea and toast now.
Poor Lesley has to work today - Jay was home when we called in this afternoon - he was busy building a thing he called an "island" that's going to sit in the middle of the kitchen. Despite his industrious mood he needed no persuasion to pause for a cup of tea, and a Mr Kipling's apple pie, and another cup of tea...
The windows have been wide all night and cackling magpies had us awake early. While we still had a scrap of energy we set to with our respective vacuum cleaners and carried out the usual frenzy culminating with nozzles at dawn on the stairs. Now we can flop for the rest of the weekend to our hearts' content. I do the upstairs Bosch, a lighter machine while Bern has the downstairs Miele - dust-free floors for a couple of days. After doing a couple more of Ian's poppies I made a start on the crochet project. Then just before going up to bed I decided I didn't like this evening's effort so I unpicked it all and will start again tonight. Just going to get some tea and toast now.
Poor Lesley has to work today - Jay was home when we called in this afternoon - he was busy building a thing he called an "island" that's going to sit in the middle of the kitchen. Despite his industrious mood he needed no persuasion to pause for a cup of tea, and a Mr Kipling's apple pie, and another cup of tea...
25th July 2014
Do you know, a sudden whim has me fancying chocolate. Good job there isn't any in the house or I'd be mid-binge by now. I'll have to make do with my much healthier medjool dates for now - not quite the same though is it? Right, I've just dashed downstairs and gobbled three dates and brought a mug of coffee back with me so maybe I can now sit still long enough for a decent chat. The date packet says three dates are one of your five-a-day portions - makes me feel noble because a chocolate wrapper doesn't have anything of merit to say.
I've been on Amazon and ordered the Fritz Kreisler CD which has the track I heard (see yesterday's post).
Do you know, a sudden whim has me fancying chocolate. Good job there isn't any in the house or I'd be mid-binge by now. I'll have to make do with my much healthier medjool dates for now - not quite the same though is it? Right, I've just dashed downstairs and gobbled three dates and brought a mug of coffee back with me so maybe I can now sit still long enough for a decent chat. The date packet says three dates are one of your five-a-day portions - makes me feel noble because a chocolate wrapper doesn't have anything of merit to say.
I've been on Amazon and ordered the Fritz Kreisler CD which has the track I heard (see yesterday's post).
I've an idea buzzing round in my head for a new crochet project. It came from my love of this old blouse I have - about 15/20 years old (call me Scrooge if you like). I like its colours and abstract pattern - lovely in the hot weather as it's a light and airy cheesecloth type fabric and I think the colours look like lovely rich paint pigments. Anyway, I've hunted out some similar colours in cotton double knit yarn and I'm going to try freeform crochet. i.e. make it up as you go along, join bits together, and generally build up a piece of fabric that is decidedly abstract. I'm unsure yet whether it will be a jumper or a jacket but I'm going to have a go. It'll probably end up as a cross between the Pied Piper and Joseph's Technicolor Dream Coat. (The computer insists I spell Technicolor like that - it doesn't like a 'u' in it).
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24th July 2014
Oops! Late again. Computer glitches prevented me getting going this morning - haven't a clue as to the cause. Then I heard the familiar rumble of Jay's camper van. He has a welcome day off from police matters so we had time for coffee, chat, and all that. Anyway, we were sitting on the sofa gossiping away when I noticed (he was wearing shorts) a nasty scar or something on his leg. Closer inspection revealed otherwise and I promptly fell about laughing. He's been 'inked' - I believe that's the current expression. I guess this entry will give the game away to all and sundry as this is probably the first inkling (pun intended) anyone might have. In case you're wondering, the image is the crossed guns emblem of the RAF Regiment - pure nostalgia on Jay's part - apologies for confronting you with needled body parts if 'inking' is not your thing. Back in the days when Jay was in the Regiment and with the Queen's Colour Squadron he took part in many Military Tattoos at Earl's Court, Edinburgh Castle and venues around the world (military tattoo - get it?) |
There's some lovely stuff on Class FM this morning - I'm just off to their website to look up the Fritz Kreisler piece I heard a few moments age. Back later after my musical moment. Well I'm back and they hadn't listed it on their playlist. I've e-mailed the John Suchet show in the hope that he/they will identify it for me. I don't hold out much hope for a reply but it will be interesting to see if the rich and famous respond to a request from little me.
Yay! I've had a reply: " It was Miniature Viennese March by Fritz Kreisler, Betty. I am glad you enjoyed it.
Best wishes, John Suchet "
How cool is that? - I'm so chuffed.
Yay! I've had a reply: " It was Miniature Viennese March by Fritz Kreisler, Betty. I am glad you enjoyed it.
Best wishes, John Suchet "
How cool is that? - I'm so chuffed.
23rd July 2014
Good morning everyone - looks like we've all survived another too-hot-to-sleep night. I woke up feeling like I'd been through the mangle. Do younger readers know what a mangle is? It's the hefty gadget that lived in our shed when I was a little girl. I used to have to hold the ends of the sheets or blankets and guide them into the washing basket as mother turned the handle to move the mighty rollers that squeezed the water out of the washed items. I'm so happy someone invented washing machines. Talking of old gadgets, on this date in 1903 the Ford Motor Company sold its first car - a two-cylinder Model A. Very dashing but bring a rain hat.
My friend Jose rang this morning - by strange coincidence we chatted about worn out old gadgets (ourselves) the main topic being our old lady legs that refuse to do what legs used to do. I wonder what percentage of older women go into the doctor's surgery to declare "...it's me legs doctor..." If they came up with cars and washing machines all those years ago, surely by now there should be an old ladies' leg pill. And then.... following all this geriatric talk.... My friend Maggie has left a message owning up to an oldie moment that happened this morning - she says: "Here's a senior moment: I went into Codsall Coffee shop and the handsome young man behind the counter called me by my first name. 'How did you know my name was Maggie' I said coyly. 'I called you madam' was his reply. What a let down!" (Wishful thinking Mags.) How's this for timing - Maggie has messaged again to say she's just had an invitation from Boots to take a free hearing test. Blimey, they must reading this blog.
I called on my friend Rene this morning to deliver the charity knitting. She's just had a hectic 5-day tour attending two graduation ceremonies and fitting in other visits en route. Two of her grandsons have done extremely well at their respective universities, Swansea and Portsmouth. She showed me lovely pics of some proud moments. Carol arrived after work this evening - coffee and chat and then I loaded her with loom band bracelets - I guess she's too polite to refuse and tolerates my little fads.
Good morning everyone - looks like we've all survived another too-hot-to-sleep night. I woke up feeling like I'd been through the mangle. Do younger readers know what a mangle is? It's the hefty gadget that lived in our shed when I was a little girl. I used to have to hold the ends of the sheets or blankets and guide them into the washing basket as mother turned the handle to move the mighty rollers that squeezed the water out of the washed items. I'm so happy someone invented washing machines. Talking of old gadgets, on this date in 1903 the Ford Motor Company sold its first car - a two-cylinder Model A. Very dashing but bring a rain hat.
My friend Jose rang this morning - by strange coincidence we chatted about worn out old gadgets (ourselves) the main topic being our old lady legs that refuse to do what legs used to do. I wonder what percentage of older women go into the doctor's surgery to declare "...it's me legs doctor..." If they came up with cars and washing machines all those years ago, surely by now there should be an old ladies' leg pill. And then.... following all this geriatric talk.... My friend Maggie has left a message owning up to an oldie moment that happened this morning - she says: "Here's a senior moment: I went into Codsall Coffee shop and the handsome young man behind the counter called me by my first name. 'How did you know my name was Maggie' I said coyly. 'I called you madam' was his reply. What a let down!" (Wishful thinking Mags.) How's this for timing - Maggie has messaged again to say she's just had an invitation from Boots to take a free hearing test. Blimey, they must reading this blog.
I called on my friend Rene this morning to deliver the charity knitting. She's just had a hectic 5-day tour attending two graduation ceremonies and fitting in other visits en route. Two of her grandsons have done extremely well at their respective universities, Swansea and Portsmouth. She showed me lovely pics of some proud moments. Carol arrived after work this evening - coffee and chat and then I loaded her with loom band bracelets - I guess she's too polite to refuse and tolerates my little fads.
22nd July 2014
Happy Birthday to David in Greywell, Hampshire - and Happy Birthday to Prince George who gets to share his special day with David. I have the window wide open, the cool morning air is lovely. I see folk pottering in their gardens and one or two full washing lines - I guess they're getting their jobs done before it really hots up. I've pinned an A1 sheet of cartridge paper to a board with the intention of doing a pen and wash drawing this morning - I'll let you know if it happens. My little book of useless information tells me that today is the Feast day of St Mary Magdalen - apparently she's the patron saint of pharmacists, hairdressers, repentant sinners and prostitutes - I wonder why she became lumbered with such a motley crew. I found a shady corner and set about drawing for an hour or so. I decided the result was rubbish so it ended up in the bin. A case of better luck next time. |
I read an interesting snippet (well I thought it interesting) in the Radio Times about the @ symbol. I thought it was a modern thing just meaning 'at'. The @ symbol was used in the 1530s by a merchant from Florence to represent an amphora of wine. It appeared on the typewriter keyboard in 1885 and its main user was grocers. However, it gained a new lease of life when e-mail addresses came into being. In Israel they call it a 'strudel' because it looks like a cross section of a strudel. In Italian it is known as a 'snail' and the Dutch refer to it as a 'monkey tail'. There is no official name for this symbol so I guess that's why it has so many informal names around the world. (Information courtesy of Stephen Fry's QI column in Radio Times).
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21st July 2014
I'm a bit late this morning - spent too long in the shower and then I had a texting session with Carol (the eternal chatterbox). I'm just off downstairs to empty the dishwasher, put the washing on and grab some breakfast. Did you sleep better last night? We did, I only woke up once for the inevitable trip across the landing (sorry too much information). I'll be back later to chat.
I'm a bit late this morning - spent too long in the shower and then I had a texting session with Carol (the eternal chatterbox). I'm just off downstairs to empty the dishwasher, put the washing on and grab some breakfast. Did you sleep better last night? We did, I only woke up once for the inevitable trip across the landing (sorry too much information). I'll be back later to chat.
Coffee time, back again. One of my books tells me the Battle of Shrewsbury was fought today (1403) when the Lancastrian King Henry IV defeated a rebel army led by nobleman Henry "Harry Hotspur" Percy, from Northumberland. I'd not heard of the Battle of Shrewsbury so decided to look into it seeing as a contingent of the family lives there. It was the first battle fought on English soil when English archers used the longbow. It proved to be a deadly weapon and helped ensure the defeat of Henry Percy. The political situation and battle strategies are explained on Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_Shrewsbury
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All in all, an uneventful day. I've been pottering about indoors and out. Bern attacked the ironing yesterday and now there's another big pile - my turn this time. You can see we exist at the cutting edge (not).
No doubt I'll knit another poppy tonight and catch up on the soaps - oh the thrill of it all. Later on it'll be Scrabble on Facebook. The final bit of 'excitement' is that I've reached level 87 on Candy Crush. I'm just going to Amazon now to get a copy of Bill Bryson's latest book downloaded onto my iPad via the Kindle app. |
18th July 2014
Whew! Have you melted yet? Just for a change, I have Radio 4 for company this morning. I'm gazing through the window and see the pigeons think they're at the seaside, they're paddling in the puddle on the garage roof. I've just spotted a curious little anomaly - there's one white shoe dangling from the washing line next door - what's that all about? The people who live there are fully functional bipeds - maybe they have a one-legged visitor with a smelly foot. I think it would be more prudent to mind my own business before any more facetious thoughts come to mind. (Humbles oneself in a suitably grovelling manner).
Whew! Have you melted yet? Just for a change, I have Radio 4 for company this morning. I'm gazing through the window and see the pigeons think they're at the seaside, they're paddling in the puddle on the garage roof. I've just spotted a curious little anomaly - there's one white shoe dangling from the washing line next door - what's that all about? The people who live there are fully functional bipeds - maybe they have a one-legged visitor with a smelly foot. I think it would be more prudent to mind my own business before any more facetious thoughts come to mind. (Humbles oneself in a suitably grovelling manner).
17th July 2014
Thursday - had to remind myself what day it is - sometimes one day is much like the one before. There's not much happening today so forgive me if I ramble. I'm still clicking away in the evenings doing a bit of knitting. I've just done a couple of items for Rene's charity project - Operation Christmas Child - a little glove puppet and a girl's bag, both to a given pattern. And yes, they're purple, so you've guessed the wool is left over from the crochet bag of a week or so ago. Shoe boxes are packed with donated gifts and handed out to underprivileged children around world. The needs of the children are assessed and the gifts given unconditionally. When I'm knitting these things I get to thinking about the poor kids who will receive them - I end up feeling very sad to think of their plight because it's all a result of the doings of mankind. I'm also plodding on with the poppies for Ian's WWI school project. |
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Are you stretched out in a deckchair getting kippered in the sun?. I'm quite cool up here in my den, the sun doesn't hit this room until late afternoon. I've brought my shredded wheat and mug of tea up here to keep me company while I waffle away to you. I also have my Tupperware pot of almonds for afters and to keep me going until coffee time. Just going to peg some washing now - back later.
Washing pegged - had my coffee outside and was overly warm in the sun so I'm back in my garret wallowing in Classic FM whilst talking to you and gazing through the window watching the comings and goings, and generally doing nothing much. Later: whilst wilting in the heat and mindlessly watching telly I made another littler bag this evening and a poppy.
Washing pegged - had my coffee outside and was overly warm in the sun so I'm back in my garret wallowing in Classic FM whilst talking to you and gazing through the window watching the comings and goings, and generally doing nothing much. Later: whilst wilting in the heat and mindlessly watching telly I made another littler bag this evening and a poppy.
16th July 2014
Looks like we're in for a few more hot days - lovely. Our bedclothes do a bit of travelling these sticky nights - I've put the summer weight duvet on, by morning it's done a 90 degree turn.
Rene has left an interesting message about the latest form of entertainment at a hen party:
Hi Betty I've just had a laugh when my next-door-but-one neighbour told me she was at her daughter's hen party last weekend at a rather nice hotel in Manchester. After the eats and drinks they were all given a sketch pad and charcoal and a rather dishy young man brought in (unclothed) as a life model for them to sketch. Apparently the results were very good and will be displayed at the wedding reception. Who said old people don't have fun?
Looks like we're in for a few more hot days - lovely. Our bedclothes do a bit of travelling these sticky nights - I've put the summer weight duvet on, by morning it's done a 90 degree turn.
Rene has left an interesting message about the latest form of entertainment at a hen party:
Hi Betty I've just had a laugh when my next-door-but-one neighbour told me she was at her daughter's hen party last weekend at a rather nice hotel in Manchester. After the eats and drinks they were all given a sketch pad and charcoal and a rather dishy young man brought in (unclothed) as a life model for them to sketch. Apparently the results were very good and will be displayed at the wedding reception. Who said old people don't have fun?
14th July 2014
Le Quatorze Juillet. "Allons, enfants de la patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrive." The storming of the Bastille (Paris 1789) saw only seven prisoners released, but the event made its point and is generally regarded as the beginning of the French Revolution.
Today has also been nominated Black Country Day - we ay celebraertin it at our plaerce we'm jus gooin about our bizniss as usual. Yo cor do everthin con yer? Am yo purrin yer flag up? I hear there's also a Black Country Anthem - I've heard it on the radio and find it toe-curlingly cringe-worthy. There's also a Black Country Flag - just the thing to run up your flagpole on 14th July as you sing the anthem. I've seen a few of the flags about in recent days. Re the anthem: they've nicked the tune from Holtz' Planet Suite - it's the tune they also use for the hymn "I Vow To Thee My Country." Ages ago I read that Gustav Holtz was annoyed when they put words to his tune and made it into a hymn - he must be turning over in his grave at this latest act of plagiarism. I'm on Gustav's side on this one. Since I posted this Carol has left a message saying: "Black country anthem gid me a faerce like a fo'penny hock." Which, translated, means she was looking displeased.
Le Quatorze Juillet. "Allons, enfants de la patrie, Le jour de gloire est arrive." The storming of the Bastille (Paris 1789) saw only seven prisoners released, but the event made its point and is generally regarded as the beginning of the French Revolution.
Today has also been nominated Black Country Day - we ay celebraertin it at our plaerce we'm jus gooin about our bizniss as usual. Yo cor do everthin con yer? Am yo purrin yer flag up? I hear there's also a Black Country Anthem - I've heard it on the radio and find it toe-curlingly cringe-worthy. There's also a Black Country Flag - just the thing to run up your flagpole on 14th July as you sing the anthem. I've seen a few of the flags about in recent days. Re the anthem: they've nicked the tune from Holtz' Planet Suite - it's the tune they also use for the hymn "I Vow To Thee My Country." Ages ago I read that Gustav Holtz was annoyed when they put words to his tune and made it into a hymn - he must be turning over in his grave at this latest act of plagiarism. I'm on Gustav's side on this one. Since I posted this Carol has left a message saying: "Black country anthem gid me a faerce like a fo'penny hock." Which, translated, means she was looking displeased.
13th July 2014
Well, the lottery numbers didn't work their magic and the rains are upon us, judgement on me for yesterday's greedy thoughts. Ian's asked me to help with a little task for the school where he teaches - they have a community project on the go so throughout the summer I'll be knitting poppies (as you do), their purpose is something to do with commemorating WWI. Thank goodness it's not daffodils - not sure how I'd manage a woolly trumpet.
Bern sent a text to Jay to ascertain the success of last night's Jools 'do'. The reply was in the vein of "one glass of wine too many." I'll not make further enquiries. I'm mesmerized at the moment, watching our neighbours explore a super-duper tent they've bought ready for a camping holiday. They wheeled a little square trailer out of their garage and then out popped a huge tent complete with metal supports; the whole thing just unfolded like magic. No guy ropes, tent pegs, wooden mallets. Just the mention of those sends camping accoutrements sends me back with the Girl Guides in the 1950s - I used to love our camping trips. I remember one year in Anglesey (I think Ann who pops in here was in my tent) we slept in ex-Army bell tents - about six to a tent, heads to the outside feet round the centre pole. They were dark gloomy things and in a morning we had to roll up the bottom side flaps to let the air blow though. Flipping draughty on a chilly morning I can tell you - we didn't waste much time getting dressed. It rained so much we were swamped out and had to spend a night on the hard floor of the local village hall. Another year we were in Moreton-in-Marsh and it was so hot the ground was parched and cracked - very uncomfortable when you only have a thing filled with straw for a mattress - it was called a palliasse. I don't recall having much of a proper wash all week - we were sent to a water tank in the corner of the field for a morning wash but we had to share it with the cows - it was their drinking place. The water tank was in the hedge dividing the cows field and ours - i.e. the cows were one side of the trough and we were the other - I couldn't cope with the gloopy droopy dangly cow dribble that we came eye-to-eye with so my face washing was a bit hit and miss. I guess things are a bit more hygienic these days - but we came to no harm. These days I wouldn't like a repeat experience of the toilet arrangements we had either. A big hole and a mound of earth plus one shovel. One's modesty was catered for by wooden posts hammered into the ground with sacks pinned to them. And that was it! Gives me a fit of the horrors to think about it now - and no hand washing facilities other than the cows' water. Ugh!
Well, the lottery numbers didn't work their magic and the rains are upon us, judgement on me for yesterday's greedy thoughts. Ian's asked me to help with a little task for the school where he teaches - they have a community project on the go so throughout the summer I'll be knitting poppies (as you do), their purpose is something to do with commemorating WWI. Thank goodness it's not daffodils - not sure how I'd manage a woolly trumpet.
Bern sent a text to Jay to ascertain the success of last night's Jools 'do'. The reply was in the vein of "one glass of wine too many." I'll not make further enquiries. I'm mesmerized at the moment, watching our neighbours explore a super-duper tent they've bought ready for a camping holiday. They wheeled a little square trailer out of their garage and then out popped a huge tent complete with metal supports; the whole thing just unfolded like magic. No guy ropes, tent pegs, wooden mallets. Just the mention of those sends camping accoutrements sends me back with the Girl Guides in the 1950s - I used to love our camping trips. I remember one year in Anglesey (I think Ann who pops in here was in my tent) we slept in ex-Army bell tents - about six to a tent, heads to the outside feet round the centre pole. They were dark gloomy things and in a morning we had to roll up the bottom side flaps to let the air blow though. Flipping draughty on a chilly morning I can tell you - we didn't waste much time getting dressed. It rained so much we were swamped out and had to spend a night on the hard floor of the local village hall. Another year we were in Moreton-in-Marsh and it was so hot the ground was parched and cracked - very uncomfortable when you only have a thing filled with straw for a mattress - it was called a palliasse. I don't recall having much of a proper wash all week - we were sent to a water tank in the corner of the field for a morning wash but we had to share it with the cows - it was their drinking place. The water tank was in the hedge dividing the cows field and ours - i.e. the cows were one side of the trough and we were the other - I couldn't cope with the gloopy droopy dangly cow dribble that we came eye-to-eye with so my face washing was a bit hit and miss. I guess things are a bit more hygienic these days - but we came to no harm. These days I wouldn't like a repeat experience of the toilet arrangements we had either. A big hole and a mound of earth plus one shovel. One's modesty was catered for by wooden posts hammered into the ground with sacks pinned to them. And that was it! Gives me a fit of the horrors to think about it now - and no hand washing facilities other than the cows' water. Ugh!
12th July 2014
Did you see that lovely moon last night? The full moon is tonight - no worries though, I won't be rushing out at midnight all hairy and howling. Don't know why, but I've always taken an interest in the phases of the moon. Maybe in a former life... let's not go there.
Did you see that lovely moon last night? The full moon is tonight - no worries though, I won't be rushing out at midnight all hairy and howling. Don't know why, but I've always taken an interest in the phases of the moon. Maybe in a former life... let's not go there.
Carol and Gary, Jay and Les, Lesley's brother David (visiting from Hampshire) plus other family members and friends are going to see Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra in the Quarry (Shrewsbury) tonight - looks like being a nice night for an outdoor concert and a picnic and boogie on the grass. Could be them braying at the moon by the end of the evening.
It's Orangemen's Day today - another event with its origins in the distant past when a protestant king, William III, defeated his father-in-law ,James II, at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The religious bickering has been going on since then - I thought all denominations of the church preached forgiveness. I've no time for marching and flag-waving to commemorate religious dissent and a mighty family feud of over 300 years ago. Surely it's time to leave such baggage where it belongs, in the past.
Hope the weather holds out for them all tonight - the cloud is banking up now (mid-afternoon). We called in on Jay and Les this morning, David arrived yesterday evening. We had a nice hour in their garden with coffee, biscuits and chat. The garden was looking good and Lesley has lots going on in her the greenhouse: tomatoes, chillies, strawberries, and herbs.
It's Orangemen's Day today - another event with its origins in the distant past when a protestant king, William III, defeated his father-in-law ,James II, at the Battle of the Boyne in 1690. The religious bickering has been going on since then - I thought all denominations of the church preached forgiveness. I've no time for marching and flag-waving to commemorate religious dissent and a mighty family feud of over 300 years ago. Surely it's time to leave such baggage where it belongs, in the past.
Hope the weather holds out for them all tonight - the cloud is banking up now (mid-afternoon). We called in on Jay and Les this morning, David arrived yesterday evening. We had a nice hour in their garden with coffee, biscuits and chat. The garden was looking good and Lesley has lots going on in her the greenhouse: tomatoes, chillies, strawberries, and herbs.
11th July 2014
I have a little Lottery story: I've not bought a ticket for ages because I never win. Then two weeks ago when the lottery result came on the telly I noticed that four of the numbers were mine. (Immediate mighty rush of angst and Scrooge-like wringing of hands). I checked it out on the lottery website and I'd missed out on £98. So I bought a ticket this week and lo and behold I had four numbers again and won £69. The lotto motto is, don't memorise your numbers and then you'll not have to grieve over what you might have won had you bought a ticket. If you feel lucky and fancy trying out my numbers they are 8 11 12 28 36 43. I know you'll consider me completely mad if I tell you how I selected them. I did it when the lottery first started and I had my numbers memorised from week one - they're etched into my DNA now. Anyway: I wrote down the numbers 1 to 49 on little squares of paper and laid them all out on the floor. I have a little dangly thing that is supposed to divine things - you dangle it over something and if turns clockwise for 'YES' anti-clockwise for 'NO' (or maybe it's the other way round - I've forgotten). I spent ages dangling it over every number and it only went a particular way for these six numbers so I'm stuck with them and daren't change them but I'm happy to share a few millions with you all if they win.
I forced myself to do some housework this morning - now I feel very noble and the sun has struggled through so all's well with my world for the next hour or so. Poor Jonathan (no 3 grandson) has injured his back and is suffering considerably. He's on painkillers and having chiropractor treatment - Carol said he couldn't manage the stairs on Monday and had to sleep downstairs. Back pain is just awful.
I have a little Lottery story: I've not bought a ticket for ages because I never win. Then two weeks ago when the lottery result came on the telly I noticed that four of the numbers were mine. (Immediate mighty rush of angst and Scrooge-like wringing of hands). I checked it out on the lottery website and I'd missed out on £98. So I bought a ticket this week and lo and behold I had four numbers again and won £69. The lotto motto is, don't memorise your numbers and then you'll not have to grieve over what you might have won had you bought a ticket. If you feel lucky and fancy trying out my numbers they are 8 11 12 28 36 43. I know you'll consider me completely mad if I tell you how I selected them. I did it when the lottery first started and I had my numbers memorised from week one - they're etched into my DNA now. Anyway: I wrote down the numbers 1 to 49 on little squares of paper and laid them all out on the floor. I have a little dangly thing that is supposed to divine things - you dangle it over something and if turns clockwise for 'YES' anti-clockwise for 'NO' (or maybe it's the other way round - I've forgotten). I spent ages dangling it over every number and it only went a particular way for these six numbers so I'm stuck with them and daren't change them but I'm happy to share a few millions with you all if they win.
I forced myself to do some housework this morning - now I feel very noble and the sun has struggled through so all's well with my world for the next hour or so. Poor Jonathan (no 3 grandson) has injured his back and is suffering considerably. He's on painkillers and having chiropractor treatment - Carol said he couldn't manage the stairs on Monday and had to sleep downstairs. Back pain is just awful.
10th July 2014
My hands are on the keys but I'm gazing out of the window rather aimlessly - just a morning moment when my brain isn't quite awake. I see Maggie and Ann have left messages of approval re the purple thing - thank you. I haven't decided upon my next project yet - I keep telling myself I ought to start a painting before I get too out of practise. We've been given our writers' group summer read - it's "The Stories" by Jane Gardam. As the title says, a collection of short stories by a writer who is better known for her novels. The blurb makes it sound inviting... "Sharp, humane, generous and wonderfully funny, she is one of our best writers." Sounds all right doesn't it? |
Seeing as it's warm I flung the windows wide and spent a boring half-hour flicking dust of the blinds - not because it worries me, but it's window Saturday this week and I can't have the window man catching sight of all the dust on his side of the blinds.
We've had another bag message - Denise this time - she's given it the thumbs up. Thanks Denise.
We've had another bag message - Denise this time - she's given it the thumbs up. Thanks Denise.
9th July 2014
Anyone for tennis? Today (1877) marks the first game of the first ever Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championship - I wonder if they had Robinson's squash and strawberries on that occasion. I'm not a tennis buff and soon lose interest once the Brits are out of the contest. I can't help feeling sorry for the fans of the Brazilian football team after last night's 7-1 defeat in the semi-final, they looked so deflated didn't they? Bernard and Trudie (my brother and his wife) called in yesterday late afternoon - we had to talk Tour de France as he's a fanatical cyclist. I couldn't come up with anything constructive to say about the riders and their strategies but I did speak knowledgably about coloured sheep, far more engaging than bikes. I'd better buzz off for the time being, have to go for a blood test this morning.
Sorry to bore you with crochet again - the squares now make up the item and today I've been making a lining. Halfway through the thread ran out so I had to nip to Knit-n-Stitch to see Mandie for some thread to fill the sewing machine bobbin. Anyway, "IT" is now finished and if you want to see it you'll find it here (link to purple thingy).
I haven't much else to tell you today - I've been busy with the autumn term programme for the writers' group. We try to keep it inspirational, but it's difficult to avoid occasional repetition after all these years.
Anyone for tennis? Today (1877) marks the first game of the first ever Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championship - I wonder if they had Robinson's squash and strawberries on that occasion. I'm not a tennis buff and soon lose interest once the Brits are out of the contest. I can't help feeling sorry for the fans of the Brazilian football team after last night's 7-1 defeat in the semi-final, they looked so deflated didn't they? Bernard and Trudie (my brother and his wife) called in yesterday late afternoon - we had to talk Tour de France as he's a fanatical cyclist. I couldn't come up with anything constructive to say about the riders and their strategies but I did speak knowledgably about coloured sheep, far more engaging than bikes. I'd better buzz off for the time being, have to go for a blood test this morning.
Sorry to bore you with crochet again - the squares now make up the item and today I've been making a lining. Halfway through the thread ran out so I had to nip to Knit-n-Stitch to see Mandie for some thread to fill the sewing machine bobbin. Anyway, "IT" is now finished and if you want to see it you'll find it here (link to purple thingy).
I haven't much else to tell you today - I've been busy with the autumn term programme for the writers' group. We try to keep it inspirational, but it's difficult to avoid occasional repetition after all these years.
8th July 2014
What's afoot today? Haven't even been downstairs yet - washed, dressed, bed made, stuff lying about picked up and put away. Then the laptop lured me to chat instead of going down to empty the dishwasher. Writers meeting later, penultimate one before the summer break, and (boasting) I've done my homework. I'm wondering about the ageing politicians who may be getting hot under their collars as the investigation gets going about the alleged dirty doings of the eighties in parliamentary circles. I wonder if and how much "keep-your-mouth-shut" money has changed hands. I guess something, if not all, will be revealed in the fullness of time. Nasty!
Well, I've finished my requisite number of crochet squares. When they're assembled I'll show you what it is. I'm off downstairs now to do the dishwasher and grab a morsel of breakfast. Back later.
Crochet message from Maggie: she's guessing that my purple squares are going to be a waistcoat. Wrong. I started joining them together last night - then I noticed I'd joined parts that I shouldn't and not joined some that I should. In other words I'd cocked up and therefore spent an hour this morning putting things right. Maggie also pointed out that maybe these purple squares are some sort of Freudian clue to my mindset - she alludes to the Jenny Joseph poem called "Warning". The first line of the poem is.... "When I grow old I shall wear purple...." I can't put the poem here as the copyright police might come after me - but look it up, it's quite amusing.
Back from the writers' meeting - we had a good session with everyone in fine form. Maggie is happily driving again having mended well from her broken hip. I bumped into Denise in the foyer - we had a quick catch up - she was looking tanned from her recent holiday.
What's afoot today? Haven't even been downstairs yet - washed, dressed, bed made, stuff lying about picked up and put away. Then the laptop lured me to chat instead of going down to empty the dishwasher. Writers meeting later, penultimate one before the summer break, and (boasting) I've done my homework. I'm wondering about the ageing politicians who may be getting hot under their collars as the investigation gets going about the alleged dirty doings of the eighties in parliamentary circles. I wonder if and how much "keep-your-mouth-shut" money has changed hands. I guess something, if not all, will be revealed in the fullness of time. Nasty!
Well, I've finished my requisite number of crochet squares. When they're assembled I'll show you what it is. I'm off downstairs now to do the dishwasher and grab a morsel of breakfast. Back later.
Crochet message from Maggie: she's guessing that my purple squares are going to be a waistcoat. Wrong. I started joining them together last night - then I noticed I'd joined parts that I shouldn't and not joined some that I should. In other words I'd cocked up and therefore spent an hour this morning putting things right. Maggie also pointed out that maybe these purple squares are some sort of Freudian clue to my mindset - she alludes to the Jenny Joseph poem called "Warning". The first line of the poem is.... "When I grow old I shall wear purple...." I can't put the poem here as the copyright police might come after me - but look it up, it's quite amusing.
Back from the writers' meeting - we had a good session with everyone in fine form. Maggie is happily driving again having mended well from her broken hip. I bumped into Denise in the foyer - we had a quick catch up - she was looking tanned from her recent holiday.
Rene, our oldest and most adventurous writers' group member told us about her last night's sojourn on Cannock Chase - you may well ask, "what was she up to?" I did suggest a few unsavoury activities that might happen on Cannock Chase in the dark but my guess was way out - she'd gone with some family members (keen 'birders') to listen to nightjars! And, there was icing on the cake, on their return a barn owl was sitting on the fence quite unperturbed by their presence - a magical moment. Rene's son has three owl species living nearby.
7th July 2014
I've started a new project despite not having finished sewing up the pink cardi. The telly is so boring I have to have something on the go so that I only need half watch it. Yeah, I know, there's always the 'off'' button but it's just become a bad habit and Bern needs it to snooze with. Anyway, twenty squares completed so far - and no it's not a blanket. I've done enough blankets to keep Codsall cosy through a long hard winter. Any ideas what it's going to be? The squares are done with cotton yarn - no hint of a sheep. Actually the outcome isn't set in stone as I just saw a picture and I'm trying to copy it. So it may or may not work out. Another instance of watch this space. |
I have to nip out now - it's time to make appointments for blood test and prescription review. Another pressing matter is the need to buy a new iron - can't think why the old one has given up, I never use it more than I have to. When I used it last week it got a bit hot and burnt a hole in the ironing board cover - the singed smell set the smoke alarm going but I thought nothing of it. I switched it off and put it away because the whole business was boring and tiresome and I shoved the un-ironed stuff back in the cupboard. Then when we got it out yesterday it wouldn't come on at all - I guess it must have died last week in the singe frenzy but I hadn't noticed.
Maggie and Denise haver left crochet messages: Maggie says she too has a yen to do some and Denise said it reminded her of her sister (my friend Anita who died last year). Anita loved to crochet and made them both mini-dresses when they were teenagers and in recent years a large pretty blanket which is still in use at their holiday caravan - a lovely memento.
Maggie and Denise haver left crochet messages: Maggie says she too has a yen to do some and Denise said it reminded her of her sister (my friend Anita who died last year). Anita loved to crochet and made them both mini-dresses when they were teenagers and in recent years a large pretty blanket which is still in use at their holiday caravan - a lovely memento.
6th July 2014
Just got out of bed, still in my jim-jams and I'm staring at this screen, my head devoid of useful thought. Back later, post-porridge, and hopefully compos mentis after my oat cuisine.
I'm quite contrary this morning and opted for tea and toast after all. Then I went out to the bin with the rubbish and was distracted by the sunshine and ended up pulling weeds and snipping at this and that - I'd quite forgotten that I was supposed to be clearing the table. My school reports used to say "Betty should pay more attention to..... " those words have come back to haunt me.
Oh dear, I've just looked out of the window (I'm upstairs, back bedroom, aka Betty's den) and thought I'd seen one of the Yorkshire sheep. It's a woman over the way, she's wearing a red and white dressing gown with huge spots. I'm hoping she's not the type to visit blogs now that I've written that. Bern's buzzing round with the vacuum while I'm drivelling into cyberspace - doesn't look like either of us is going to save the world - OK so what's your raison detre?
My friend Ann has left a message here: they're just back from Cornwall having copped for all the recent good weather - beats a foreign holiday anytime - I think Cornwall with good weather is heaven.
Just got out of bed, still in my jim-jams and I'm staring at this screen, my head devoid of useful thought. Back later, post-porridge, and hopefully compos mentis after my oat cuisine.
I'm quite contrary this morning and opted for tea and toast after all. Then I went out to the bin with the rubbish and was distracted by the sunshine and ended up pulling weeds and snipping at this and that - I'd quite forgotten that I was supposed to be clearing the table. My school reports used to say "Betty should pay more attention to..... " those words have come back to haunt me.
Oh dear, I've just looked out of the window (I'm upstairs, back bedroom, aka Betty's den) and thought I'd seen one of the Yorkshire sheep. It's a woman over the way, she's wearing a red and white dressing gown with huge spots. I'm hoping she's not the type to visit blogs now that I've written that. Bern's buzzing round with the vacuum while I'm drivelling into cyberspace - doesn't look like either of us is going to save the world - OK so what's your raison detre?
My friend Ann has left a message here: they're just back from Cornwall having copped for all the recent good weather - beats a foreign holiday anytime - I think Cornwall with good weather is heaven.
5th July 2014
It looks a bit damp everywhere this morning but we can console ourselves with "...the gardens needed it". I remember the adults saying that when I was small. Hope the weather holds out for the cyclists - the Tour de France seems to fit well into Yorkshire - challenging roads, fantastic scenery, and I love how the Yorkshire people are making it a memorable event for everyone with their coloured sheep and amusing hoardings. Ian and Jenny have gone oop north to catch a glimpse of the event - if it involves sport, they'll be there. Are you in holiday mood? On 5th July 1841, Thomas Cook's organised a rail excursion for 500 people and his travel agency was born. And still in holiday mode - the bikini was launched in Paris (1946) - I bet that raised a few forties' eyebrows. Bern's yelling - the porridge is ready - back later. Hello again, washing out and Waitrose done. We met Jay and Les in there - they were in the café part downing giant bacon and egg baps. We didn't join them as we'd already been through the checkout and had frozen stuff - just quick hugs and natter before dashing back. |
Apparently the above farmer is a keen cyclist and urged his sheep to take up the theme.
Chatted with Carol this morning - she said Jon and lots of Andy's mates are gathering at Andy and Raj's place today. They're having a "dig the garden" event with an "afterwards at the pub". I suppose that's one way of turning a long-abandoned garden into a dream scene. I guess it all depends on whether any of them have Titchmarsh tendencies. |
4th July 2014
Happy Independence Day if you happen to be in the USA. I've been reading about the Royal Navy's new aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth, the UK's biggest war ship - the Queen will be using a bottle of whisky instead of champagne to launch her. Is that a nod in direction of thrift having spent billions on the vessel? A spit in the ocean to say the least. Why not use a bottle of lemonade, or even water - who's going to know? The top picture is the new carrier - very streamline and space-age looking. The second one is the aircraft carrier HMS Centaur - Bern served on this during the 1960s. Carol and I went aboard at the de-commissioning ceremony - the living quarters were very cramped and basic - I presume the new ship will be more "user friendly". The Centaur has long since been turned into razor blades or whatever it is they do with old ships. From battleships to balls of wool - I've finished the pink cardigan except for sewing in the sleeves. I might consider a crochet project next. For the woolly-minded knitters and stitchers I've found a couple of lovely blogs to explore - I've listed them on the Craftiness page (link) |
3rd July 2014
Oops! The laptop has put up a message saying "battery low - plug in now" (hastily grovelling under the desk looking for the right bit of wire - got it!) I keep forgetting that laptops need charging up. I'm constantly forgetting to charge my phone, camera, and iPad. I think I could do with shoving my finger in the electric socket to recharge my brain cells and boost my RAM - I'm in dire need of more Random Access Memory. I'm yo-yoing up and down the stairs keeping an eye on the fruit cake in the oven - the smell is wafting up to me and I've switched the radio off and left the doors open so I can hear the oven timer when it goes pip-pip-pip. Flipping heck - we're ruled by gadgets, timers, chargers... machines that tell us what to do. How long before we have a robot in our homes to tip us out of bed, dunk us in the bath, shovel food into our mouths... mind you, might be a good idea for our old age... could prove interesting. I shall call mine Android Motion because I like poets. Hopping back downstairs now, the oven is yelling for attention. |
2nd July 2014
I've just been to peg some washing - it's glorious outside. I've also done battle with one of those phone callers selling security alarms. I got rid of him and put the phone down and the cheeky blighter immediately rang back and started all over again. I tried to remind him that I'd already spoken with him two minutes ago but he carried on waffling like I was a daft old bat without a memory. I realise they're trying to earn a crust but they're so thick-skinned, persistent, and very annoying, they should all be shipped off to a remote island devoid of phone lines or mobile signals. We could have a new law for perpetrators of annoying phone calls whereby they're banned from using communication equipment and have to undergo training in tact, diplomacy and social skills.
Do you like the Got-2-Sing logo - nice isn't it? It's the singing group Carol goes to on Wednesday evenings - they were singing in the Quarry in Shrewsbury last Saturday doing a turn at the Food Show - I see from the pics on the website that they all wear a black tee-shirt with this logo. She didn't tell us until after the event but hopefully we'll get to watch next time there's a public performance.
I don't think our two were destined to tread the boards. The nearest they got to being stage struck was at their respective junior schools. We turned up to watch Carol in a play when she was about six - she was inside a cardboard tree trunk - no opportunity to branch out to better things from that part. When James told us he was in the school play we went along eagerly - however we only caught sight of him between scenes as he and another boy moved scenery and stage props. Break a leg!
I've just been to peg some washing - it's glorious outside. I've also done battle with one of those phone callers selling security alarms. I got rid of him and put the phone down and the cheeky blighter immediately rang back and started all over again. I tried to remind him that I'd already spoken with him two minutes ago but he carried on waffling like I was a daft old bat without a memory. I realise they're trying to earn a crust but they're so thick-skinned, persistent, and very annoying, they should all be shipped off to a remote island devoid of phone lines or mobile signals. We could have a new law for perpetrators of annoying phone calls whereby they're banned from using communication equipment and have to undergo training in tact, diplomacy and social skills.
Do you like the Got-2-Sing logo - nice isn't it? It's the singing group Carol goes to on Wednesday evenings - they were singing in the Quarry in Shrewsbury last Saturday doing a turn at the Food Show - I see from the pics on the website that they all wear a black tee-shirt with this logo. She didn't tell us until after the event but hopefully we'll get to watch next time there's a public performance.
I don't think our two were destined to tread the boards. The nearest they got to being stage struck was at their respective junior schools. We turned up to watch Carol in a play when she was about six - she was inside a cardboard tree trunk - no opportunity to branch out to better things from that part. When James told us he was in the school play we went along eagerly - however we only caught sight of him between scenes as he and another boy moved scenery and stage props. Break a leg!
1st July 2014
Happy Birthday Jonathan (no 3 grandson) 23 today. White Rabbits for first of the month - must investigate why we say that - so stupid isn't it? Writers meeting today - help! Haven't done my homework yet. For weeks I've been urging Bern to replace his broken iPad - very noble of me considering their painful price tag. He missed it so much but didn't want to part with his dosh. (He's well known in the family for not wishing to disturb the dust on his bank notes). Anyway, he stuck to his guns, hauled it round various establishments and has managed to get it fixed for £65 - it's as good as new. So thumbs up to Conceptex, PC & Laptop Repair Centre, 34 Snow Hill, Wolverhampton. Tel: 713137. We're impressed with their service. I fudged my way through the writers' meeting. The task was to put yourself at an historical event and write an account of what you witnessed. Ages ago I wrote a ditty about Queen Victoria's visit to Wolverhampton for the unveiling of Prince Albert's statue in Queen Square - I think it was for a competition about Wolverhampton (it didn't win by the way). However, I dug it out, tidied it up, and gave it another airing today. (link) |
1st July has been quite a day over the years - in 1858 a paper by Charles Darwin giving an outline of his Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection was presented to the British Linnaen Society. I find it difficult to understand why some still refute the theory even in today's supposedly enlightened times.
Other notable happenings on this date are (1937) the 999 emergency number was introduced, and in 1837 it became compulsory to register births and deaths. The bloodiest battle in world history began on this date: World War I - the Battle of the Somme. |
Are you a summer sneezer? One in four people in the UK suffer from hay fever. 200 years ago no one had heard of it - it was a Dr John Bostock who finally identified its cause. He suffered himself and because of its seasonal reoccurrence he was convinced that something to do with the summer caused his malady. In 1819 he presented his study to the medical establishments but was rewarded with disbelief. He plodded on with his research for nine more years before his findings were accepted.
Hay fever is caused by the body's immune system overreacting to pollen, which it has mistaken for a virus. Asthma and eczema sufferers have a higher risk of developing hay fever, as do those exposed to second-hand smoke in childhood. The most common form of hay fever, affecting 90% of sufferers, is an allergy to grass pollen, which is at its highest level from mid-May to July. Humid and windy weather helps pollen spread, while rain clears it from the air. 30th June 2014
Last day before we hop over into July. Thank goodness for the Act of Parliament dated 30th June 1837 that put an end to the use of the pillory in the UK. It was a mode of punishment undefined in its severity comprising a wooden frame mounted on a post with holes for the head and hands. Victims were sentenced to stand in the pillory for a given number of hours and received verbal and physical abuse from the general public. When Daniel Defoe was pilloried in 1703 people threw garlands rather than rotten eggs as they sympathised with him. Sometimes the pillory (or stocks} was used to anchor people whilst they were whipped. Barbarous! |
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Have you made your loom bracelets yet? It's the biggest kids' craze the kids have cottoned on to for ages. Try 'Googling' loom bracelets or loom bands and you'll see just how big it is. They're tiny rubber bands that can be woven into almost anything. Kids are getting really creative with them - looks fun to me - I'm tempted to have a go especially if I can find some 'quieter' colours. There are loads of websites showing you how to do it and the various weaving patterns. I remember a very similar thing when I was quite young - weaving bracelets with long strips of fine gauge coloured plastic. The finished item looked very much like these loom bands. It's funny how these things pop up every few years - I guess the good thing is, it's getting them away from computer games and TV for as long as the fad lasts. Let's have your pictures if you've made one and I'll put them on the 'Craftiness' page. I'm off for a cup of coffee now - back later if any 'stop press' news turns up.
29th June 2014
Hi everyone. I'm really having trouble with the changes they've made to the Weebly platform - probably due more to my incompetence than anything on their part. Things are not behaving as they used to (sounds like society in general doesn't it?) I've had to take down some of the pictures as they suddenly turned enormous and wouldn't behave. We had a pleasant evening at Karen's yesterday and caught up with some of the family. Andy and Rajini were there and Jenny came alone - Ian was attending a stag do in Manchester. Jay and Les couldn't make it as they had a prior commitment. I've spent the morning having another de-clutter and now have more stuff (books and CDs) to cart to the charity shop. Now I have a laptop I can't decide whether I want to work upstairs in my den or downstairs and be cosy - books and stuff are quite confused and don't know where their home is as I lug them up and down stairs to suit my whim. We went over to Shrewsbury this afternoon to deliver the old computer to Gary - technology got the better of all of us when it came to transferring his vast collection of music - we all decided to leave it one of the boys. I think that's a well known strategy these days, if there's something you can't do on your computer ask a five-year old.
Hi everyone. I'm really having trouble with the changes they've made to the Weebly platform - probably due more to my incompetence than anything on their part. Things are not behaving as they used to (sounds like society in general doesn't it?) I've had to take down some of the pictures as they suddenly turned enormous and wouldn't behave. We had a pleasant evening at Karen's yesterday and caught up with some of the family. Andy and Rajini were there and Jenny came alone - Ian was attending a stag do in Manchester. Jay and Les couldn't make it as they had a prior commitment. I've spent the morning having another de-clutter and now have more stuff (books and CDs) to cart to the charity shop. Now I have a laptop I can't decide whether I want to work upstairs in my den or downstairs and be cosy - books and stuff are quite confused and don't know where their home is as I lug them up and down stairs to suit my whim. We went over to Shrewsbury this afternoon to deliver the old computer to Gary - technology got the better of all of us when it came to transferring his vast collection of music - we all decided to leave it one of the boys. I think that's a well known strategy these days, if there's something you can't do on your computer ask a five-year old.
28th June 2014
Late again, sorry to those who've called in before I arrived. All due to circumstances beyond my control (sort of). Internet was down first thing, then it was time to go to Sainsbury's, then Jay and Les turned up so we did lunch, as usual we talked for ever (you know how it is) and time was soon gobbled up. We like to find out from Les how her family in Hampshire are getting on. (Note for Audrey: hope they manage to mend your knee). Then we had a frenzied hour trying to clean up the corner in the dining room where my desk had been, with everything moved out the wall was a disgrace so we ferreted in the garage for paint and brushes. So now that corner has had a quick wallop of paint - a temporary measure until we can get round to some proper decorating, or maybe find a 'man who can'. I used to tackle such jobs with gusto in the past, now they're more than just a chore, they're a veritable pain in the backside. We're going to Karen's tonight for another family gathering. Karen is Gary's sister (son-in-law Gary). Her daughter Emma is 17 tomorrow. It's my Mum's birthday today - she would have been 103 - 10 years gone but not forgotten. I'm yawning cavernously - I stayed up watching a Anthony Hopkins film last night - I'd seen it before but couldn't resist a re-run. I've quite forgotten what it's called - three chaps in a plane crash and the struggle they have to survive in the wild and only one of them makes it back home. The worst bit was when one of them got eaten by a grizzly bear and then it stalked the other two - scary stuff. Bern slept through it all: he was up early bright and chirpy and I had to drag myself out of bed snarling like a bear.
NATIONAL ARMED FORCES DAY - fly the flag...
Late again, sorry to those who've called in before I arrived. All due to circumstances beyond my control (sort of). Internet was down first thing, then it was time to go to Sainsbury's, then Jay and Les turned up so we did lunch, as usual we talked for ever (you know how it is) and time was soon gobbled up. We like to find out from Les how her family in Hampshire are getting on. (Note for Audrey: hope they manage to mend your knee). Then we had a frenzied hour trying to clean up the corner in the dining room where my desk had been, with everything moved out the wall was a disgrace so we ferreted in the garage for paint and brushes. So now that corner has had a quick wallop of paint - a temporary measure until we can get round to some proper decorating, or maybe find a 'man who can'. I used to tackle such jobs with gusto in the past, now they're more than just a chore, they're a veritable pain in the backside. We're going to Karen's tonight for another family gathering. Karen is Gary's sister (son-in-law Gary). Her daughter Emma is 17 tomorrow. It's my Mum's birthday today - she would have been 103 - 10 years gone but not forgotten. I'm yawning cavernously - I stayed up watching a Anthony Hopkins film last night - I'd seen it before but couldn't resist a re-run. I've quite forgotten what it's called - three chaps in a plane crash and the struggle they have to survive in the wild and only one of them makes it back home. The worst bit was when one of them got eaten by a grizzly bear and then it stalked the other two - scary stuff. Bern slept through it all: he was up early bright and chirpy and I had to drag myself out of bed snarling like a bear.
NATIONAL ARMED FORCES DAY - fly the flag...
27th June 2014
Goodness me, it's teatime and I've just about managed to sort the computer blips. As it's been a wet old day I've been forced into confronting this new laptop - can't claim to being 100% au fait with Windows 8.1 yet. Just putting the strawberry picture here was almost rocket science for me - the young and savvy would say 'easy peasy'. The desktop is all spruced up ready to go to Gary. I've just had a nice interlude - my friend Hilary called round and she kindly brought some beautiful ripe strawberries from her garden. I've already dipped some into the sugar we'r e not supposed to be eating - juicylicious. I've abandoned my corner of the dining room and laptop and I have spent time together in my den upstairs. We've played Candy Crush and got to level 78. I don't really like owning up to doing Candy Crush but honesty is always the best policy and I do like the whizz bang noises and silly voice messages when you do a good move.
Goodness me, it's teatime and I've just about managed to sort the computer blips. As it's been a wet old day I've been forced into confronting this new laptop - can't claim to being 100% au fait with Windows 8.1 yet. Just putting the strawberry picture here was almost rocket science for me - the young and savvy would say 'easy peasy'. The desktop is all spruced up ready to go to Gary. I've just had a nice interlude - my friend Hilary called round and she kindly brought some beautiful ripe strawberries from her garden. I've already dipped some into the sugar we'r e not supposed to be eating - juicylicious. I've abandoned my corner of the dining room and laptop and I have spent time together in my den upstairs. We've played Candy Crush and got to level 78. I don't really like owning up to doing Candy Crush but honesty is always the best policy and I do like the whizz bang noises and silly voice messages when you do a good move.
26th June 2014
Sorry I'm late getting here today - I promise I didn't oversleep. There are problems with the website-host and I couldn't get in to edit. They've also made some changes to do with how things work and things are already going awry, probably because I didn't understand the little video they presented to demonstrate the new modus operandi. This is the last time I'll be using this desktop computer as Richard will be here within the hour to decommission it. So with website-host problems, new laptop and software I may be prone to temper trantrums and chucking things about in the near future. At the moment it's a matter of 'watch this space' and hopefully I'll be back soon.
Sorry I'm late getting here today - I promise I didn't oversleep. There are problems with the website-host and I couldn't get in to edit. They've also made some changes to do with how things work and things are already going awry, probably because I didn't understand the little video they presented to demonstrate the new modus operandi. This is the last time I'll be using this desktop computer as Richard will be here within the hour to decommission it. So with website-host problems, new laptop and software I may be prone to temper trantrums and chucking things about in the near future. At the moment it's a matter of 'watch this space' and hopefully I'll be back soon.
24th June 2014
Writers' meeting today - I've just managed to do my homework this morning. We have to write (fact or fiction) about an incident when peopled wouldn't speak to you following something you did. I couldn't muster an iota of an idea all week then on hearing an item of news this morning about current strikes I remembered a time back in 1977 when there was a firemen's strike. Full time fire-fighters called upon the retained fire-fighters to back their cause. Bern (retained fireman) refused to join the strike and I agreed with his decision whole heartedly. In fact I was so incensed by the attitude of the personnel and the entire scenario that I wrote a vehement letter to the Express and Star without consulting Bern. The letter was published and Bern was hauled over the coals for my actions. Dickensian or what? - chauvinism at its worst - they seemed unaware that women can think for themselves and don't need their husband's permission to form and express an opinion. Consequently we received the 'cold shoulder' for a short time, but the experience came in useful today because it fitted the brief for my homework.
Writers' meeting today - I've just managed to do my homework this morning. We have to write (fact or fiction) about an incident when peopled wouldn't speak to you following something you did. I couldn't muster an iota of an idea all week then on hearing an item of news this morning about current strikes I remembered a time back in 1977 when there was a firemen's strike. Full time fire-fighters called upon the retained fire-fighters to back their cause. Bern (retained fireman) refused to join the strike and I agreed with his decision whole heartedly. In fact I was so incensed by the attitude of the personnel and the entire scenario that I wrote a vehement letter to the Express and Star without consulting Bern. The letter was published and Bern was hauled over the coals for my actions. Dickensian or what? - chauvinism at its worst - they seemed unaware that women can think for themselves and don't need their husband's permission to form and express an opinion. Consequently we received the 'cold shoulder' for a short time, but the experience came in useful today because it fitted the brief for my homework.
Now for a disgusting little story. We're in the habit of sucking the occasional Murray Mint. Yesterday evening Bern was about three fifths through one, then he had a bit of a coughing fit. He managed to hang on to his teeth but his mint went missing. He hunted high and low to no avail. It's just turned up stuck to the bottom of the tee-shirt he was wearing yesterday. Ugh! As you might imagine, with tales like that to relate, the long winter evenings are going to fly by in our house.
23rd June 2014
Oh dear: I see Jay has read my Ikea comments of yesterday: he's left a message to say "...Not only does Ikea do things to women telling them to come hither and spend plenty of your pounds sterling, it also knocks out the male mobile phone signal so he cannot entertain himself whilst said napkins and candles are purchased nor can he receive messages of comfort and support from Pa."
It was on or around this date in 1876 that Lt. Colonel George Custer made his famous 'last stand'. A quick overview of the scenario has my sympathies lying with the Indians - the native Americans. Admittedly the US Government had tried to make peace with the Indians but in 1874 gold was discovered in the Black Hills and the Sioux refused to sell their lands (and who can blame them). The Government then ordered the Sioux onto small reservations. When they refused to move they were declared to be 'hostile'. The US army was sent to defeat the Sioux and Custer was ordered to march round the Wolf Mountains as part of a two-pronged attack on the Sioux camp. The Sioux were joined by the Cheyenne and the Arapaho, making a force of more than 3,000 armed with Winchester repeating rifles. The Sioux won the Battle of Little Big Horn but it turned into a pyrrhic victory as their lands were taken and sold to white settlers and the buffalo annihilated.
I really loved a good cowboy film when I was a kid, didn't we all? It reminds me of our Monday evenings in Bilbrook Village Hall in the 1940s/50s when a chap brought a sort of travelling cinema. It was the highlight of our week - children first house, adults second house. For about nine-pence we used to see a great film show sitting on uncomfortable chairs, lots of jumping up and down at the exciting bits when the cowboys chased the Indians away. We always saw the Indians as the baddies - it's now time for a rethink.
Oh dear: I see Jay has read my Ikea comments of yesterday: he's left a message to say "...Not only does Ikea do things to women telling them to come hither and spend plenty of your pounds sterling, it also knocks out the male mobile phone signal so he cannot entertain himself whilst said napkins and candles are purchased nor can he receive messages of comfort and support from Pa."
It was on or around this date in 1876 that Lt. Colonel George Custer made his famous 'last stand'. A quick overview of the scenario has my sympathies lying with the Indians - the native Americans. Admittedly the US Government had tried to make peace with the Indians but in 1874 gold was discovered in the Black Hills and the Sioux refused to sell their lands (and who can blame them). The Government then ordered the Sioux onto small reservations. When they refused to move they were declared to be 'hostile'. The US army was sent to defeat the Sioux and Custer was ordered to march round the Wolf Mountains as part of a two-pronged attack on the Sioux camp. The Sioux were joined by the Cheyenne and the Arapaho, making a force of more than 3,000 armed with Winchester repeating rifles. The Sioux won the Battle of Little Big Horn but it turned into a pyrrhic victory as their lands were taken and sold to white settlers and the buffalo annihilated.
I really loved a good cowboy film when I was a kid, didn't we all? It reminds me of our Monday evenings in Bilbrook Village Hall in the 1940s/50s when a chap brought a sort of travelling cinema. It was the highlight of our week - children first house, adults second house. For about nine-pence we used to see a great film show sitting on uncomfortable chairs, lots of jumping up and down at the exciting bits when the cowboys chased the Indians away. We always saw the Indians as the baddies - it's now time for a rethink.
22nd June 2014
We have the promise of a glorious day... hope everyone gets to enjoy the sunshine. We called at Pattingham yesterday to see Jay and Les but they were out. We discovered later that they were trudging round Ikea (Bern and Jay's un-favourite way of passing the time - they call it "walking the walk"). Women love Ikea and always come home with a bag of tea lights and a mountain of paper napkins - why? I found a massive bag of the tea light blighters in our garage - I can't remember buying them let alone using them. There must be something in the air in Ikea that affects women, coercing them into grabbing a big yellow bag and filling it with something unnecessary. A stub of wax candle seems to conjure romantic notions of soft lights and cosy evenings rather than the risk of a fire and money down the drain. Sorry to dampen the dream, my pragmatic side kicked in.
I've just had a moment of deja vu - maybe I've done the Ikea moan on a previous occasion - apologies if that is so. Reminds me of a favourite quote: "The old repeat themselves and the young have nothing to say. The boredom is mutual..."
Jose has just phoned - they're back from a visit to their son and his family. Bern's tootled off to visit his mother in her care home - he usually has to make a crafty exit as several old ladies hover round the door hoping to 'escape' and casually tell him 'we're just going for some fresh air.' I remember a telly ad or catchphrase that said, "...the future's bright...", not from my standpoint matey! Then there was the one that said "...the future's orange..." - to that I'd say, yes it is orange, we're all heading for that metaphorical sunset.
We have the promise of a glorious day... hope everyone gets to enjoy the sunshine. We called at Pattingham yesterday to see Jay and Les but they were out. We discovered later that they were trudging round Ikea (Bern and Jay's un-favourite way of passing the time - they call it "walking the walk"). Women love Ikea and always come home with a bag of tea lights and a mountain of paper napkins - why? I found a massive bag of the tea light blighters in our garage - I can't remember buying them let alone using them. There must be something in the air in Ikea that affects women, coercing them into grabbing a big yellow bag and filling it with something unnecessary. A stub of wax candle seems to conjure romantic notions of soft lights and cosy evenings rather than the risk of a fire and money down the drain. Sorry to dampen the dream, my pragmatic side kicked in.
I've just had a moment of deja vu - maybe I've done the Ikea moan on a previous occasion - apologies if that is so. Reminds me of a favourite quote: "The old repeat themselves and the young have nothing to say. The boredom is mutual..."
Jose has just phoned - they're back from a visit to their son and his family. Bern's tootled off to visit his mother in her care home - he usually has to make a crafty exit as several old ladies hover round the door hoping to 'escape' and casually tell him 'we're just going for some fresh air.' I remember a telly ad or catchphrase that said, "...the future's bright...", not from my standpoint matey! Then there was the one that said "...the future's orange..." - to that I'd say, yes it is orange, we're all heading for that metaphorical sunset.
21st June 2014
Greetings at Litha (the old Pagan name for Summer Solstice). I didn't spot any of you when I was skipping round at Stone Henge this morning to the tune of the dawn chorus (wink-wink). It's Jenny's birthday today - have a good one. Also remembering my friend Anita - she was a Solstice birthday girl too - never forgotten. At the Solstice the sun rises directly over the Heel Stone (Stone Henge) and shines through the opening of the horseshoe arrangement of stones at the centre of the structure. No one knows for sure but it's been suggested that the stones were aligned for the purpose of sun worship or astronomical calculation. In Norway, part of the sun's disc is visible above the horizon throughout the night at this time of year and in the northernmost parts of the UK there is very little full darkness. The downside of all this is that now we're at the longest day we can say, "the nights are drawing in." We're on the downhill run to that unmentionable thing beginning with C. Are the cards in the shops yet?
Greetings at Litha (the old Pagan name for Summer Solstice). I didn't spot any of you when I was skipping round at Stone Henge this morning to the tune of the dawn chorus (wink-wink). It's Jenny's birthday today - have a good one. Also remembering my friend Anita - she was a Solstice birthday girl too - never forgotten. At the Solstice the sun rises directly over the Heel Stone (Stone Henge) and shines through the opening of the horseshoe arrangement of stones at the centre of the structure. No one knows for sure but it's been suggested that the stones were aligned for the purpose of sun worship or astronomical calculation. In Norway, part of the sun's disc is visible above the horizon throughout the night at this time of year and in the northernmost parts of the UK there is very little full darkness. The downside of all this is that now we're at the longest day we can say, "the nights are drawing in." We're on the downhill run to that unmentionable thing beginning with C. Are the cards in the shops yet?
20th June 2014
2-1 to Uruguay Oh dear - say no more - dare I say the words..? It's only a game...
2-1 to Uruguay Oh dear - say no more - dare I say the words..? It's only a game...
19th June 2014
Happy Birthday Carol: my five-and-a half pound baby is now an unmentionable age and weighs a bit more too. We did the birthday thing last night as nothing is allowed to interfere with football in any of the Mitchell households. We had a lovely time - fourteen for supper. We all budged up to get round Raj and Andy's dining table, there was cake and candles to follow. Only hope England can come up trumps tonight to compensate for the misplaced birthday. It was great to see Karen, Kate and Emma again (Gary's sister and nieces) - Kate's back from Uni for the summer and enjoying long mornings in bed while Emma goes to college and Karen is at work. Stir your stumps Kate or I'll have to rush round with something for bedsores! It's amazing how teenagers can sleep for England at the wrong time of day. I bet I'm popular (NOT) for mentioning that little story.
Happy Birthday Carol: my five-and-a half pound baby is now an unmentionable age and weighs a bit more too. We did the birthday thing last night as nothing is allowed to interfere with football in any of the Mitchell households. We had a lovely time - fourteen for supper. We all budged up to get round Raj and Andy's dining table, there was cake and candles to follow. Only hope England can come up trumps tonight to compensate for the misplaced birthday. It was great to see Karen, Kate and Emma again (Gary's sister and nieces) - Kate's back from Uni for the summer and enjoying long mornings in bed while Emma goes to college and Karen is at work. Stir your stumps Kate or I'll have to rush round with something for bedsores! It's amazing how teenagers can sleep for England at the wrong time of day. I bet I'm popular (NOT) for mentioning that little story.
18th June 2014
We're having a shopping day today - I'll be back to let you know if we make any exciting purchases. Thinking of you Rene: poor Rene's been off line for a day or so while her Internet is upgraded. She was champing at the bit at yesterday's meeting, frantic with withdrawal symptoms. I know just how you feel Rene - I always feel like my arms have fallen off when the computer's poorly.
We're having a shopping day today - I'll be back to let you know if we make any exciting purchases. Thinking of you Rene: poor Rene's been off line for a day or so while her Internet is upgraded. She was champing at the bit at yesterday's meeting, frantic with withdrawal symptoms. I know just how you feel Rene - I always feel like my arms have fallen off when the computer's poorly.
17th June 2014
What to do today? I have to collect my shedload of pills from the chemist then deliver my dictation equipment which I've sold to Mandie. She's setting up a secretarial service in Codsall and can be contacted at the Knit-n-Stitch shop. After that it's off to the writers' meeting in the Library.
Errands accomplished - pills and potions acquired. Heather in Lloyds Chemist talked me into having virtual prescriptions from now on. That means when the doctor issues a prescription he'll send it will wing its way electronically to the pharmacy. I'll not be seeing my little slip of green paper, I just have to turn up at the pharmacy to collect the medication. I can see the day when we consult a doctor via our computer screens. I reckon we'll have widgets or apps that read blood pressure, listen to heart beats, etc that dispatch the readings to the GP's computer. I haven't fathomed out how they'll cope with blood tests and urine samples yet, but there's bound to be a way without us actually attending the surgery.
What to do today? I have to collect my shedload of pills from the chemist then deliver my dictation equipment which I've sold to Mandie. She's setting up a secretarial service in Codsall and can be contacted at the Knit-n-Stitch shop. After that it's off to the writers' meeting in the Library.
Errands accomplished - pills and potions acquired. Heather in Lloyds Chemist talked me into having virtual prescriptions from now on. That means when the doctor issues a prescription he'll send it will wing its way electronically to the pharmacy. I'll not be seeing my little slip of green paper, I just have to turn up at the pharmacy to collect the medication. I can see the day when we consult a doctor via our computer screens. I reckon we'll have widgets or apps that read blood pressure, listen to heart beats, etc that dispatch the readings to the GP's computer. I haven't fathomed out how they'll cope with blood tests and urine samples yet, but there's bound to be a way without us actually attending the surgery.
Do you like this little climbing rose? It's called Warm Welcome - we've just planted one, it's a really bright and lively colour. We bought it at David's Austin's rose place in Albrighton at the weekend.
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Writers' meeting went well - they didn't chuck things at me when I read my homework so I've posted it on the writing page. We welcomed a new member, Kara. Ryan's piece was good and involved football - he wrote a satirical piece with a bloke's slant on how to enjoy the World Cup games. It was topical and typically laddish, we thought it deserved a wider audience, so we suggested he should try to get it published. Good luck with that Ryan.
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16th June 2014
Congratulations Jay and Les - 24th wedding anniversary. If you scroll back to this date last year you'll find the pics - they'll probably groan at me if I drag 'em out again here. This morning the weather man said we're in for a settled week but without much sun - that's like eating toast without marmalade. I've nothing of note to report - I'm showered and shampooed, bedclothes are hurtling round in the machine, breakfast done, now it's a matter of deciding what to do with the rest of Monday in between twiddling my thumbs, gazing into space, and random daydreams. Just remembered - I need to do my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. Back later.
Congratulations Jay and Les - 24th wedding anniversary. If you scroll back to this date last year you'll find the pics - they'll probably groan at me if I drag 'em out again here. This morning the weather man said we're in for a settled week but without much sun - that's like eating toast without marmalade. I've nothing of note to report - I'm showered and shampooed, bedclothes are hurtling round in the machine, breakfast done, now it's a matter of deciding what to do with the rest of Monday in between twiddling my thumbs, gazing into space, and random daydreams. Just remembered - I need to do my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. Back later.
Whew - I managed to write something thank goodness - the brief is to write about your hobby or hobbies. I've managed 1000 words - if it gets a decent reception I'll post it on the Writing page tomorrow. Having confronted all the time and money given to hobbies over the years I wonder why do we do it? Maybe if we didn't do all this stuff we'd be very boring people, albeit wealthier. It's just come to me that I've invested considerable money and time in books and reading and failed to mention it in my write up - a silly oversight.
Maggie has left a message to say she's done her homework - that makes two of us who can turn up with a clear conscience tomorrow.
Maggie has left a message to say she's done her homework - that makes two of us who can turn up with a clear conscience tomorrow.
15th June 2014
Happy Father's Day. I've looked up it's origins and it began around 1910 in America; it quickly caught on and is celebrated around the world. Have a good one chaps. I ended up watching the footy last night, England v. Italy, in bed while Bern slept through most of it. Disappointing result - but hey ho. I'm tempted to say "it's only a game" but we mustn't upset the blokes today.
Happy Father's Day. I've looked up it's origins and it began around 1910 in America; it quickly caught on and is celebrated around the world. Have a good one chaps. I ended up watching the footy last night, England v. Italy, in bed while Bern slept through most of it. Disappointing result - but hey ho. I'm tempted to say "it's only a game" but we mustn't upset the blokes today.
15th June 1215 King John set his seal on the Magna Carta, a lengthy document of written promises between the King and his subjects. It all came about because King John was pretty ruthless and to stop his exploits and abuse of power the barons staged an uprising and demanded a fairer deal. The document has been amended over the years but of lasting significance is the fact that it placed restrictions on the power on the Monarch, and the right to a trial for alleged criminals. The Magna Carta set us on the pathway to becoming a democracy. Four copies of the original document have survived: two are in the British Library, one is in Lincoln Cathedral and the other is at Salisbury Cathedral.
You might be interested in a website I've found: it's http://www.timeanddate.com You can generate your own calendar, calculate distances, and loads of other stuff. Some might find it geeky; I love it - I'm prone to nerdishness. How's this for a snippet of mind-blowing information - Bern's upstairs on his computer investigating the same website and he's just yelled downstairs to tell me that today will be 41 seconds longer than yesterday - how shall we fill the time?
We ended up having quite a full day. Carol and Gary called in around coffee time so out came the cake I made yesterday. Jay and Les arrived later on and stayed for lunch so out came the cake again (it's visibly depleted now). We managed to catch up on gossip and find out how Jack, Audrey and David are getting on. (Lesley's family in Hampshire). Then they dived off to town and we went to the garden centre for yet more fat balls for the birds.
You might be interested in a website I've found: it's http://www.timeanddate.com You can generate your own calendar, calculate distances, and loads of other stuff. Some might find it geeky; I love it - I'm prone to nerdishness. How's this for a snippet of mind-blowing information - Bern's upstairs on his computer investigating the same website and he's just yelled downstairs to tell me that today will be 41 seconds longer than yesterday - how shall we fill the time?
We ended up having quite a full day. Carol and Gary called in around coffee time so out came the cake I made yesterday. Jay and Les arrived later on and stayed for lunch so out came the cake again (it's visibly depleted now). We managed to catch up on gossip and find out how Jack, Audrey and David are getting on. (Lesley's family in Hampshire). Then they dived off to town and we went to the garden centre for yet more fat balls for the birds.
14th June 2014
Horror Saturday again - the window cleaner was here early while I hid under the duvet. Seems like it's all happening at the mo - Trooping the Colour, Tennis, Football, and I can't raise enthusiasm for any of it so I've started some new knitting. Bright pink this time - a cardigan - a psychological protest to Thursday's beige moment. I enjoyed buying the wool as I had a lovely long chat with Mandie (proprietor Knit-n-Stitch, Codsall). We were amazed to find we both have similar backgrounds. Over the years we've both done secretarial work in industry, drifted into teaching, had an interest in knitting, needlework, and various crafts. It was a good old gossip - this was late yesterday afternoon and I'd only popped out to post a letter while Bern was having a nap and now I'm doing a cardi ready for next winter - oh well, at least it's not beige.
Horror Saturday again - the window cleaner was here early while I hid under the duvet. Seems like it's all happening at the mo - Trooping the Colour, Tennis, Football, and I can't raise enthusiasm for any of it so I've started some new knitting. Bright pink this time - a cardigan - a psychological protest to Thursday's beige moment. I enjoyed buying the wool as I had a lovely long chat with Mandie (proprietor Knit-n-Stitch, Codsall). We were amazed to find we both have similar backgrounds. Over the years we've both done secretarial work in industry, drifted into teaching, had an interest in knitting, needlework, and various crafts. It was a good old gossip - this was late yesterday afternoon and I'd only popped out to post a letter while Bern was having a nap and now I'm doing a cardi ready for next winter - oh well, at least it's not beige.
It's Flag Day in the US today, commemorating the adoption of the Stars and Strips as their national flag (1777) The original flag had one star and one stripe for each of the 13 states that constituted the country in earlier times. Increases were necessary as other states joined the Union but it eventually became impossible to incorporate the requisite number of stars and stripes for them all. In 1818 they reduced the stripes to represent the original 13 - the total number of states is represented by stars.
13th June 2014
Friday 13th - unlucky for some - are you having a duvet day or throwing caution to the wind? Whatever your inclination it's best done on a garden chair today. Jay called in yesterday afternoon and Carol turned up too when she'd finished work. Happy chats and cups of tea in the sunshine - it's great when they touch base, everyone is so busy-busy these days. Jay had been to take one of his bicycles for a service - apparently a costly business these days. Don't quite understand why he has more than one bike. Something to do with fixed wheels (whatever they are) and one presumes the other(s) are unfixed wheels. Maybe I'll not make enquiries, sounds mechanically technical. I do know that the fixed wheels one is for riding to work . Carol took her cuttings home - I'd rooted some hydrangea cuttings for a corner of their front garden. (main plant below)
Friday 13th - unlucky for some - are you having a duvet day or throwing caution to the wind? Whatever your inclination it's best done on a garden chair today. Jay called in yesterday afternoon and Carol turned up too when she'd finished work. Happy chats and cups of tea in the sunshine - it's great when they touch base, everyone is so busy-busy these days. Jay had been to take one of his bicycles for a service - apparently a costly business these days. Don't quite understand why he has more than one bike. Something to do with fixed wheels (whatever they are) and one presumes the other(s) are unfixed wheels. Maybe I'll not make enquiries, sounds mechanically technical. I do know that the fixed wheels one is for riding to work . Carol took her cuttings home - I'd rooted some hydrangea cuttings for a corner of their front garden. (main plant below)
12th June 2014
You see this beige rug - well I'm standing in the middle of it. I've broken all my own rules this morning and dressed in beige - I'm the beige blob melting into the background - see it? About once a year I manage to have a major beige moment and regret my invisibleness all day. It must be in my DNA - I remember teasing my mother about wearing beige. Don't have time to change as it's art class (last one until September) I'm shovelling beige shredded wheat and I've a beige cup of tea awaiting my attention. Oh what a beige day! I can't even think what idiot sneaked beige clothes into my wardrobe.
You see this beige rug - well I'm standing in the middle of it. I've broken all my own rules this morning and dressed in beige - I'm the beige blob melting into the background - see it? About once a year I manage to have a major beige moment and regret my invisibleness all day. It must be in my DNA - I remember teasing my mother about wearing beige. Don't have time to change as it's art class (last one until September) I'm shovelling beige shredded wheat and I've a beige cup of tea awaiting my attention. Oh what a beige day! I can't even think what idiot sneaked beige clothes into my wardrobe.
Nothing has changed: Syria, Iraq, the African States... there are so many places around the world where it's happening all over again - all because someone's ethnicity, religion, political views, are different from someone else's. What are they wanting, a World full of clones?
Apologies for dragging up all this sorrow and despair - it's important we don't forget.
11th June 2014
I see more doom and despair on the horizon - after everything that's gone before Iraq is back to square one with religion at the root of things; instigated by brainwashed zealots who consider their ideals to be the only way. I wonder why their God doesn't instruct them to be kind and considerate to other people, we all have a right to follow our chosen pathway. Today's soapbox moment done - I just hope UK and US military keep out of it.
Weather is looking good. Put your dusters away and grab a deckchair - that's an order. We had a great writers' meeting yesterday with Jane. Maggie hobbled in on her crutches but looking good. We got to grips with the Shakespearian sonnet - a set form - sounds a bit 'dry' but it wasn't, Jane made it very accessible. We also dissected and discussed a couple of poems in sonnet form: one by Carol Ann Duffy (current poet laureate) and one by Ross Cogan (winner of the Cannon's Mouth Sonnet or Not competition 2014).
Bern still hasn't replaced his broken iPad - he's still mulling things over and bracing himself to part with his money. He's tried dropping it again in case that will reverse things. We've also explored all the 'how-to' advice on You Tube - it refuses to be resuscitated. Once I get on You Tube I'm lost for hours, it's amazing what you can find. While wandering round the videos about busted iPad I strayed into piano lessons and other stuff, until I'd frittered away best part of the afternoon. Then we both had a text from Ian telling us his new mobile phone number. Another technological challenge as we struggled to swap the numbers on our respective phones. Do you ever feel that cyber-life is getting the better of you?
Haven't caught up with any family members this week, Jay and Lesley are both up to their ears in work - Carol has gone to sing with her local choir tonight, I call it her Wednesday Warble.. tra la la la la, tra la la la...
I see more doom and despair on the horizon - after everything that's gone before Iraq is back to square one with religion at the root of things; instigated by brainwashed zealots who consider their ideals to be the only way. I wonder why their God doesn't instruct them to be kind and considerate to other people, we all have a right to follow our chosen pathway. Today's soapbox moment done - I just hope UK and US military keep out of it.
Weather is looking good. Put your dusters away and grab a deckchair - that's an order. We had a great writers' meeting yesterday with Jane. Maggie hobbled in on her crutches but looking good. We got to grips with the Shakespearian sonnet - a set form - sounds a bit 'dry' but it wasn't, Jane made it very accessible. We also dissected and discussed a couple of poems in sonnet form: one by Carol Ann Duffy (current poet laureate) and one by Ross Cogan (winner of the Cannon's Mouth Sonnet or Not competition 2014).
Bern still hasn't replaced his broken iPad - he's still mulling things over and bracing himself to part with his money. He's tried dropping it again in case that will reverse things. We've also explored all the 'how-to' advice on You Tube - it refuses to be resuscitated. Once I get on You Tube I'm lost for hours, it's amazing what you can find. While wandering round the videos about busted iPad I strayed into piano lessons and other stuff, until I'd frittered away best part of the afternoon. Then we both had a text from Ian telling us his new mobile phone number. Another technological challenge as we struggled to swap the numbers on our respective phones. Do you ever feel that cyber-life is getting the better of you?
Haven't caught up with any family members this week, Jay and Lesley are both up to their ears in work - Carol has gone to sing with her local choir tonight, I call it her Wednesday Warble.. tra la la la la, tra la la la...
10th June 2014
Writers' meeting today - I can turn up guilt-free as we don't have to present homework, Jane Seabourne is coming to do a workshop. I don't know what the theme is - maybe they've told me and I've forgotten.
Carol's just phoned (you've guessed, she's stuck in traffic) she asked if we'd like to go with her and Gerry to the pantomime - that brings thoughts of Chr....... can't bring myself to say the word it's only June. My hair had got to the Scary-Mary stage again. I can't manage those backward basins (bad back and funny neck) so I always wash it myself in the shower and then turn up at the hairdressers for a trim. I was told I'd have to pay the whole hog despite them only trimming it - that was at a place in Codsall. On a mere whim I popped into Barnaby's on Birches Bridge and I've had it done for £15 less - I was only charged for the trim. Thumbs up to Barnaby's and shame on the other one - can't resist a quick calc - about £120 per year overpaid - oh the angst!
Writers' meeting today - I can turn up guilt-free as we don't have to present homework, Jane Seabourne is coming to do a workshop. I don't know what the theme is - maybe they've told me and I've forgotten.
Carol's just phoned (you've guessed, she's stuck in traffic) she asked if we'd like to go with her and Gerry to the pantomime - that brings thoughts of Chr....... can't bring myself to say the word it's only June. My hair had got to the Scary-Mary stage again. I can't manage those backward basins (bad back and funny neck) so I always wash it myself in the shower and then turn up at the hairdressers for a trim. I was told I'd have to pay the whole hog despite them only trimming it - that was at a place in Codsall. On a mere whim I popped into Barnaby's on Birches Bridge and I've had it done for £15 less - I was only charged for the trim. Thumbs up to Barnaby's and shame on the other one - can't resist a quick calc - about £120 per year overpaid - oh the angst!
9th June 2014
A couple of weeks ago I found a lump in my leg and didn't think much about it. This morning I noticed it's still there plus a matching one on the other leg. I thought I'd test the water and make an appointment with the doc. I nearly keeled over when they said, 'one o'clock today' instead of the usual 'come in three weeks time'. What a turn up! Isn't that a strange expression? Sounds more like trouser bottoms or a mispronounced vegetable.
Don's coming today for revisions to something typed a week ago - I'm hoping I can now say I'm fully retired. Ooh... I've just heard a mighty clap of thunder - looks like being a grey Monday. I think I'm prattling, I'll come back when I've something more sensible to say.
I ended up having a productive morning - while the washing did it's thing, I wrote a poem to enter in the Waitrose competition. It's just a fun thing, daft little ditties - anyone else going to have a go? http://www.waitrose.com/yearofpoetry
Back from the docs - no worries - he said he thinks my mysterious lumps are just bites. Oh well, hope whatever bit me has indigestion.
A couple of weeks ago I found a lump in my leg and didn't think much about it. This morning I noticed it's still there plus a matching one on the other leg. I thought I'd test the water and make an appointment with the doc. I nearly keeled over when they said, 'one o'clock today' instead of the usual 'come in three weeks time'. What a turn up! Isn't that a strange expression? Sounds more like trouser bottoms or a mispronounced vegetable.
Don's coming today for revisions to something typed a week ago - I'm hoping I can now say I'm fully retired. Ooh... I've just heard a mighty clap of thunder - looks like being a grey Monday. I think I'm prattling, I'll come back when I've something more sensible to say.
I ended up having a productive morning - while the washing did it's thing, I wrote a poem to enter in the Waitrose competition. It's just a fun thing, daft little ditties - anyone else going to have a go? http://www.waitrose.com/yearofpoetry
Back from the docs - no worries - he said he thinks my mysterious lumps are just bites. Oh well, hope whatever bit me has indigestion.
8th June 2014
My book of factual gems tells me that today housewives and domestic servants should be feeling joyful. Two life-changing inventions were patented on this date. 1824 the washing machine - 1869 the vacuum cleaner. These machines have been with us for over 160 years and there are still a few blokes around who don't know how to switch them on despite being au fait with the complexities of the motor car. Feminist! Moi? |
We'll be hemmed in by traffic today - it's the RAF Cosford Airshow with traffic descending from all directions. I've put a link below to the web page below. If you hover your mouse over the list you can see all the old planes - there's a brief video of a delta winged Vulcan reminding me of when Jay joined the RAF in 1983 - A Vulcan made the flypast at his passing out parade after basic training - it was large, loud and sinister when flying low - RAF Swinderby (Lincolnshire)
http://www.cosfordairshow.co.uk/intheair.html |
7th June 2014
That was a change - waking up to a thunder storm - forecast says the sun will be with us later. Another weekend - another supermarket trek - oh the joys! I think we're going to have to do a trip to a computer place - Bern's iPad seems to have expired. He's hooked on Sudoku and does them online on his iPad - he dozes off (as you do) and the iPad hits the deck - it recovered on the first occasion but this time we fear a fatality. It squeaks and bleeps as if e-mails etc are getting in but the screen won't wake up. We're hoping to either get a death certificate or ascertain a chance of recovery.
That was a change - waking up to a thunder storm - forecast says the sun will be with us later. Another weekend - another supermarket trek - oh the joys! I think we're going to have to do a trip to a computer place - Bern's iPad seems to have expired. He's hooked on Sudoku and does them online on his iPad - he dozes off (as you do) and the iPad hits the deck - it recovered on the first occasion but this time we fear a fatality. It squeaks and bleeps as if e-mails etc are getting in but the screen won't wake up. We're hoping to either get a death certificate or ascertain a chance of recovery.
We called at Rene's on the way out to drop off some remnants of knitting wool - she's encouraging her Residents' Group to knit little toys for inclusion in the shoe box scheme - various items go into a shoe box for sending to deprived children in troubled parts of the world.
PC World people declined to give an opinion on the sick Apple iPad - Bern's now a little more resigned to the pain of buying a new one. No analgesic for that type of ache, it's just a matter of disturbing the wallet moths and flashing one's cash. I'm considering replacing my desktop PC with a laptop which means we'll be able to reclaim the corner of the dining room that has been my office for the past umpteen years. We nosed around a bit to find it's a whole new ball game now - we were brought up on ROM, RAM, megabytes, and floppy discs. Now it's all terabytes, gigabits and cloud connectivity. I'm bamboozled. I think we'll be mulling over these prospective purchases for a while longer until our geriatric brains can get to grips with the jargon.
PC World people declined to give an opinion on the sick Apple iPad - Bern's now a little more resigned to the pain of buying a new one. No analgesic for that type of ache, it's just a matter of disturbing the wallet moths and flashing one's cash. I'm considering replacing my desktop PC with a laptop which means we'll be able to reclaim the corner of the dining room that has been my office for the past umpteen years. We nosed around a bit to find it's a whole new ball game now - we were brought up on ROM, RAM, megabytes, and floppy discs. Now it's all terabytes, gigabits and cloud connectivity. I'm bamboozled. I think we'll be mulling over these prospective purchases for a while longer until our geriatric brains can get to grips with the jargon.
6th June 2014
"...We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France... We shall fight on the beaches... We shall never surrender..." (Winston Churchill, speech in the House of Commons 4th June 1940) To all the old chaps (US, Canadian, British) who took part and are remembering and commemorating Operation Overlord, known as D-Day, I say "Respect".
Jonathan's home (no 3 grandson) none the worse for his five weeks in Thailand. He said the curfew thing was a bit strange - you were OK to go in the bars and restaurants but the music was switched off - seems like you could go out after curfew time as long as you didn't enjoy yourself - it was only in Bangkok that they stuck to the rules. He reckons he's over-noodled and could kill for some mashed potato. Carol rang this morning, she was at a standstill in a mighty traffic jam en route from Shrewsbury to Telford - I could hear Police sirens screaming in the background - I guess she'll be late for work. James called in yesterday afternoon - he chugged up in the old camper van which sounds more like a motor bike to me, it makes the strangest noise.
Oh dear: 10.30 am and Carol still in traffic at the Shrewsbury end of the A5 - deffo late for work now. Looks like she's going to have "one of those days". Do you love or hate these slick words the young ones bring into being? - deffo, tomoz, soz - they'll melt into obscurity very soon when they think of something else.
"...We shall go on to the end. We shall fight in France... We shall fight on the beaches... We shall never surrender..." (Winston Churchill, speech in the House of Commons 4th June 1940) To all the old chaps (US, Canadian, British) who took part and are remembering and commemorating Operation Overlord, known as D-Day, I say "Respect".
Jonathan's home (no 3 grandson) none the worse for his five weeks in Thailand. He said the curfew thing was a bit strange - you were OK to go in the bars and restaurants but the music was switched off - seems like you could go out after curfew time as long as you didn't enjoy yourself - it was only in Bangkok that they stuck to the rules. He reckons he's over-noodled and could kill for some mashed potato. Carol rang this morning, she was at a standstill in a mighty traffic jam en route from Shrewsbury to Telford - I could hear Police sirens screaming in the background - I guess she'll be late for work. James called in yesterday afternoon - he chugged up in the old camper van which sounds more like a motor bike to me, it makes the strangest noise.
Oh dear: 10.30 am and Carol still in traffic at the Shrewsbury end of the A5 - deffo late for work now. Looks like she's going to have "one of those days". Do you love or hate these slick words the young ones bring into being? - deffo, tomoz, soz - they'll melt into obscurity very soon when they think of something else.
5th June 2014
Sorry I'm rushing out this morning - it's art class. As usual I'm winging it without a creative thought in my head. I've packed oil pastels in the hope that a different medium will inspire. Some people dislike using oil pastel (not to be confused with oil sticks or the soft chalky pastels). I think they're the yummiest things, it's like drawing with lipstick. You can build up layers, blend it, or even dilute it with an appropriate medium to make washes. I find it interesting that oil pastels only came into being because Picasso asked the Sennelier company to create a soft drawing stick - and hey presto they were invented just for him. I guess if your name is Picasso you carry a bit of clout in the art world.
Sorry I'm rushing out this morning - it's art class. As usual I'm winging it without a creative thought in my head. I've packed oil pastels in the hope that a different medium will inspire. Some people dislike using oil pastel (not to be confused with oil sticks or the soft chalky pastels). I think they're the yummiest things, it's like drawing with lipstick. You can build up layers, blend it, or even dilute it with an appropriate medium to make washes. I find it interesting that oil pastels only came into being because Picasso asked the Sennelier company to create a soft drawing stick - and hey presto they were invented just for him. I guess if your name is Picasso you carry a bit of clout in the art world.
Home again. Here's this morning's effort - an old boat using oil pastel. It's not much cop - it looks better shrunken down when the faults are less obvious. Never mind, as I always say, it's fun trying.
It's World Environment Day today - I haven't heard much mention of it by the media - I guess we should be contemplating our carbon footprints and how we can conserve the planet. |
4th June 2014
What do you think of the Queen's new state coach? Traditional, romantic, very Cinderella. I'm disappointed they didn't come up with an ultra-modern design depicting our time - I think this is somewhat anachronistic - they must have a shed full of coaches of this ilk. I'm trying very hard to dispel my cynical thoughts - but we're having a big procession in a new coach at incalculable cost and a big showing of ermine and jewels - all this to deliver a speech telling us, amongst other things, that plastic bags are to be banned. I hasten to add I'm not an anti-royalist and I own to enjoying a spot of pomp and circumstance, it's just the incongruous nature of things that sometimes amuse and bemuse me.
Maggie has just popped in with a message: she points out that the new carriage has some modern comforts such as aluminium wheels, electric windows, and heating. It's less of a boneshaker than former models thanks to a modern suspension system. Historical bits and pieces have been included: timbers from Henry VIII's flagship The Mary Rose, Lord Nelson's HMS Victory, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and a bit of Isaac Newton's apple tree, plus other iconic fragments - a right royal exercise in recycling. I'm off now, I need to make a carrot cake.
What do you think of the Queen's new state coach? Traditional, romantic, very Cinderella. I'm disappointed they didn't come up with an ultra-modern design depicting our time - I think this is somewhat anachronistic - they must have a shed full of coaches of this ilk. I'm trying very hard to dispel my cynical thoughts - but we're having a big procession in a new coach at incalculable cost and a big showing of ermine and jewels - all this to deliver a speech telling us, amongst other things, that plastic bags are to be banned. I hasten to add I'm not an anti-royalist and I own to enjoying a spot of pomp and circumstance, it's just the incongruous nature of things that sometimes amuse and bemuse me.
Maggie has just popped in with a message: she points out that the new carriage has some modern comforts such as aluminium wheels, electric windows, and heating. It's less of a boneshaker than former models thanks to a modern suspension system. Historical bits and pieces have been included: timbers from Henry VIII's flagship The Mary Rose, Lord Nelson's HMS Victory, the Royal Yacht Britannia, and a bit of Isaac Newton's apple tree, plus other iconic fragments - a right royal exercise in recycling. I'm off now, I need to make a carrot cake.
4th June 1783 (France) - the Montgolfier brothers gave a first public demonstration of their latest invention - the hot-air balloon. A small fire beneath a gas bag made from paper and linen - it rose more than 1000 ft where it hovered for 10 minutes. Three months later they repeated their experiment in the presence of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette - this time there were three passengers; a sheep, a duck, and a rooster, suspended in a basket below the balloon. Two months later the first human travellers flew 5.5 miles in a Montgolfier balloon over Paris.
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3rd June 2014
I've just been outside to see if the sunflower plants remain uneaten - heading in their direction was a baby seal, I looked again and saw it was a slug. OK so I'm given to hyperbole - but it really was a big one - profoundly fat and I hadn't the stomach to squash it so I shovelled it into the bin. Now I have to keep nipping out to ensure it doesn't escape. We have an old yucca in the front garden - I decided to tidy it up this morning. I began by snipping off last year's flower stems (should have done it weeks ago). Then a couple of clumpy bits needed pulling out so I set to. It snapped off, took me by surprise and I fell backwards banging my head on the step and scraping my hand on a large pot while the rest of me did a beached whale act in the gravel, all resulting in a cocktail of bumps and bruises (shaken not deterred). The wound on my hand has several layers of skin missing and it was right on one of those brown age spot things so it wouldn't stop bleeding - I've hidden it under a doormat sized plaster so it's OK now I don't have to look at it.
It's writers' group today and no homework done - grovel time is nigh. We had a good meeting. Rene had a birthday yesterday and she kindly brought chocs which we obligingly ate. Belated Happy Birthday Rene. On her birthday morning her grandson decided to do a Skype birthday call. Rene had just stepped from the shower - damp and naked she rushed to respond - just in time she remembered the caller would be able to see her and managed to grab a bathrobe thus sparing her grandson a bit more than he bargained for.
I've just been outside to see if the sunflower plants remain uneaten - heading in their direction was a baby seal, I looked again and saw it was a slug. OK so I'm given to hyperbole - but it really was a big one - profoundly fat and I hadn't the stomach to squash it so I shovelled it into the bin. Now I have to keep nipping out to ensure it doesn't escape. We have an old yucca in the front garden - I decided to tidy it up this morning. I began by snipping off last year's flower stems (should have done it weeks ago). Then a couple of clumpy bits needed pulling out so I set to. It snapped off, took me by surprise and I fell backwards banging my head on the step and scraping my hand on a large pot while the rest of me did a beached whale act in the gravel, all resulting in a cocktail of bumps and bruises (shaken not deterred). The wound on my hand has several layers of skin missing and it was right on one of those brown age spot things so it wouldn't stop bleeding - I've hidden it under a doormat sized plaster so it's OK now I don't have to look at it.
It's writers' group today and no homework done - grovel time is nigh. We had a good meeting. Rene had a birthday yesterday and she kindly brought chocs which we obligingly ate. Belated Happy Birthday Rene. On her birthday morning her grandson decided to do a Skype birthday call. Rene had just stepped from the shower - damp and naked she rushed to respond - just in time she remembered the caller would be able to see her and managed to grab a bathrobe thus sparing her grandson a bit more than he bargained for.
2nd June 2014
Other than banging on about Coronation Day I couldn't think what to write today. I think we've done enough red-white-n-blue in recent times so we'll leave the flag in the cupboard. I have a big one actually, flag that is, I bought it for when Jay came back from the Gulf War. That's all done and dusted now - back to my book of this and that. On looking up today's date I find that two of the world's so-called "civilised" nations excelled themselves on this date. In 1924 the US government granted citizenship to all Native Americans. I can't contemplate that without steam coming out of my ears - patronizing or what? They granted citizenship to the people who were there in the first place! The other little fact I found is that in 1985 English football hooligans were so disruptive and thug-like that English clubs were banned from playing in European competitions. Shame on them - not that hooligans understand the word 'shame'.
Other than banging on about Coronation Day I couldn't think what to write today. I think we've done enough red-white-n-blue in recent times so we'll leave the flag in the cupboard. I have a big one actually, flag that is, I bought it for when Jay came back from the Gulf War. That's all done and dusted now - back to my book of this and that. On looking up today's date I find that two of the world's so-called "civilised" nations excelled themselves on this date. In 1924 the US government granted citizenship to all Native Americans. I can't contemplate that without steam coming out of my ears - patronizing or what? They granted citizenship to the people who were there in the first place! The other little fact I found is that in 1985 English football hooligans were so disruptive and thug-like that English clubs were banned from playing in European competitions. Shame on them - not that hooligans understand the word 'shame'.
Congratulations Jenny and the 'Dream Team' on completing the Brownhills Great Midland Fun Run - here they are with medals to prove it.
I haven't seen the little falcons for a couple of days now - I'd decided they'd flown away but a moment ago I saw two of them devouring a pigeon.
http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
(3 hours later) I've just had a second visit and they're having another take-away - they appear to have a pigeon each - big appetites now.
I haven't seen the little falcons for a couple of days now - I'd decided they'd flown away but a moment ago I saw two of them devouring a pigeon.
http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
(3 hours later) I've just had a second visit and they're having another take-away - they appear to have a pigeon each - big appetites now.
1st June 2014
Yay..! it's a sunny one. Carpe diem. I've just phoned my sister in Caerphilly to say Happy Birthday - seems like all's well in Wales. She said Phil Jnr is in London early this morning to rehearse beating the retreat at Horse Guards Parade - the real event happens later this week. June is said to be the month of roses - hope yours are blooming - ours are happily smiling in the sunshine.
We haven't caught up with any of the family this weekend - Carol and Gary are having bedroom carpet fitted and Gary is building wardrobes. Grapevine has that there is a lot of *$*^*>!!! going on, politely described as inventive invective. James has just done a stint of nights so we're leaving him to it to catch up on some sleep and lawn mowing.
We intended doing a bit of gardening but ended up grappling with the Telegraph Sudoku al fresco for our afternoon exercise.
Yay..! it's a sunny one. Carpe diem. I've just phoned my sister in Caerphilly to say Happy Birthday - seems like all's well in Wales. She said Phil Jnr is in London early this morning to rehearse beating the retreat at Horse Guards Parade - the real event happens later this week. June is said to be the month of roses - hope yours are blooming - ours are happily smiling in the sunshine.
We haven't caught up with any of the family this weekend - Carol and Gary are having bedroom carpet fitted and Gary is building wardrobes. Grapevine has that there is a lot of *$*^*>!!! going on, politely described as inventive invective. James has just done a stint of nights so we're leaving him to it to catch up on some sleep and lawn mowing.
We intended doing a bit of gardening but ended up grappling with the Telegraph Sudoku al fresco for our afternoon exercise.
31st May 2014
I've always had a soft spot for Pepys - Samuel Pepys of course, the great diarist. Three years before his death, his eyesight began to fail and he made his last diary entry on this day in 1669. We owe thanks to Pepys for his detailed recording of the Restoration, the great plague, and the fire of London. He wrote about everyday life in a shorthand of his own invention which wasn't deciphered until 1825 providing an important contribution to the social history of the time. I love his amusing observation of a friend's daughter playing the harpsichord on 1st May 1663: "Lord, it was enough to make any man sick to hear her; yet was I forced to commend her highly." I think many of us will recognise the moment. The trick is to deliver praise with grace; in other words, lie and not let on what you're really thinking. I've read much of the translation of his diary and there were plenty of shenanigans going on in those days I can tell you - they weren't squeaky clean despite their posh portraits and fancy apparel - very much like today then. Pepys himself was a bit of an old rogue when someone took his fancy - there's plenty of those around today too.
I spy the sun - quite a treat after recent gloomy days. The falcons look like they're ready to fly the nest. They keep trotting off along the ledge and out of the camera range - I think they've a yen for freedom now.
I've always had a soft spot for Pepys - Samuel Pepys of course, the great diarist. Three years before his death, his eyesight began to fail and he made his last diary entry on this day in 1669. We owe thanks to Pepys for his detailed recording of the Restoration, the great plague, and the fire of London. He wrote about everyday life in a shorthand of his own invention which wasn't deciphered until 1825 providing an important contribution to the social history of the time. I love his amusing observation of a friend's daughter playing the harpsichord on 1st May 1663: "Lord, it was enough to make any man sick to hear her; yet was I forced to commend her highly." I think many of us will recognise the moment. The trick is to deliver praise with grace; in other words, lie and not let on what you're really thinking. I've read much of the translation of his diary and there were plenty of shenanigans going on in those days I can tell you - they weren't squeaky clean despite their posh portraits and fancy apparel - very much like today then. Pepys himself was a bit of an old rogue when someone took his fancy - there's plenty of those around today too.
I spy the sun - quite a treat after recent gloomy days. The falcons look like they're ready to fly the nest. They keep trotting off along the ledge and out of the camera range - I think they've a yen for freedom now.
30th May 2014
Gerry (Carol's friend) is coming for coffee and a chat this morning. Carol texted to say she's heard from Jon in Thailand. The curfew is lifted where they are so they'll be able to have a few lively evenings before they come home. I expect that's an over simplified explanation of young chaps out on the town but I don't wish to contemplate the reality - I'd rather not know. I'll be back later if anything interesting transpires. |
Bad guys have been operating the 'courier scam' in the Stafford area. I've put a warning on the Neighbourhood Watch page in case you haven't heard about it.
Sorry I didn't get back again this afternoon - I did the most geriatric thing ever - sat down after lunch and promptly fell asleep. Scary, I reckon the slippery slope is looming closer and getting increasingly slippier. |
29th May 2014
Do we bound off to Boscobel to climb a tree or something? It's Oak Apple Day today - in commemoration of the restoration of King Charles II to the British throne on May 29th 1660 - his 30th birthday. I'm pretty au fait with Oak Apple Day - when James (aka Jay) was in the Air Cadets they always held a long distance walk on this date - I think it was called the Boscobel Walk. People came from all over the country to take part as it was an annual event that earned them a medal. I usually did duty as a marshal along the route. One year James asked me to weigh some soil as he wanted to walk with a weighted back pack as a sort of training exercise (he was already planning to join the forces and wanted to test his endurance). Anyway, I weighed the stuff and packed it into plastic bags for his weights. By the end of the walk (29 miles) Jay was on his knees - I'd confused lbs and kgs and he'd carried twice the recommended weight. Oak Apple Day is still celebrated in some towns around the country - but we don't shout about it in our house after my little mix-up.
Do we bound off to Boscobel to climb a tree or something? It's Oak Apple Day today - in commemoration of the restoration of King Charles II to the British throne on May 29th 1660 - his 30th birthday. I'm pretty au fait with Oak Apple Day - when James (aka Jay) was in the Air Cadets they always held a long distance walk on this date - I think it was called the Boscobel Walk. People came from all over the country to take part as it was an annual event that earned them a medal. I usually did duty as a marshal along the route. One year James asked me to weigh some soil as he wanted to walk with a weighted back pack as a sort of training exercise (he was already planning to join the forces and wanted to test his endurance). Anyway, I weighed the stuff and packed it into plastic bags for his weights. By the end of the walk (29 miles) Jay was on his knees - I'd confused lbs and kgs and he'd carried twice the recommended weight. Oak Apple Day is still celebrated in some towns around the country - but we don't shout about it in our house after my little mix-up.
Looks like another very wet one doesn't it? Nothing for it but to glare through the window, moan about slugs, and eat cake. We should be soaking up sunshine and I'm having to wear a winter woolly. All four little falcons are looking strong now - there's much wing flapping going on and they're getting quite adventurous wandering off along that ledge. It would be great to see them take their first flight. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ |
A phone has popped through our letterbox - thank you Doreen and sorry I was out and missed you - I was doing a quick dash to the Co-op. We have a couple of redundant phones too so a little collection to help the cause. (see 24th May). This is little Neve who we are trying to help.
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I'll finally be free of all my "chaps who bring their typing" this week. I've had a gentle wind down but this week is the absolute end - the drawbridge is up. I bet the computer will breathe a sigh when I shed several thousands of text files.
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27th May 2014
I'm out of sync already this week - it feels like Monday today. I haven't any classes to go to this week so I've meandered through a modicum of trivia to find a little gem relating to today. It'll stick in your mind when I tell you that a patent was granted to Richard Drew (27th May 1930) for his invention of cellophane adhesive tape. He worked for the 3M Scotch Tape Company in Minnesota. You can think of him next time you're reaching for the sticky tape. If that was mega boring feel free to tear me off a strip.
I've just planted some of the sunflower plants - hope they manage to get established before something eats them. I'm going to do a bit more weeding now - another example of how to have fun on a Tuesday.
I'm out of sync already this week - it feels like Monday today. I haven't any classes to go to this week so I've meandered through a modicum of trivia to find a little gem relating to today. It'll stick in your mind when I tell you that a patent was granted to Richard Drew (27th May 1930) for his invention of cellophane adhesive tape. He worked for the 3M Scotch Tape Company in Minnesota. You can think of him next time you're reaching for the sticky tape. If that was mega boring feel free to tear me off a strip.
I've just planted some of the sunflower plants - hope they manage to get established before something eats them. I'm going to do a bit more weeding now - another example of how to have fun on a Tuesday.
26th May 2014
Here we are then Bank Holiday Monday: I bet you're all bounding around with paintbrushes, mowing the lawn, or packing a picnic while I'm thinking what the hell shall I write about? Jay and Lesley turned up yesterday afternoon so there's now a mighty hole in yesterday's cake. They're spending today catching up on housework and cleaning in corners (how jolly).
Carol has just phoned - they've caught up on sleep after their night flight and are busy cutting hedges today (another fun activity - NOT). They had a good holiday in Tenerife, did lots of walking and reading. She says she enjoyed two books currently in the best-seller lists, "The Year of the Rat" Clare Furniss and "The Boy That Never Was" Karen Perry. I think I'm going to get Bill Bryson's new one. I'll tell you the title when I can remember it.
Message from Maggie pointing out I'd put the wrong date. Thanks Mags - I'm prone to silly errors these days. Mags also said she's tentatively managed a bit of dusting and left the vacuuming, floor washing, etc to Bob. Very sensible - there's only so much you can do when you're propped up with crutches. Sounds like yet another household undertaking un-jolly activities.
Here we are then Bank Holiday Monday: I bet you're all bounding around with paintbrushes, mowing the lawn, or packing a picnic while I'm thinking what the hell shall I write about? Jay and Lesley turned up yesterday afternoon so there's now a mighty hole in yesterday's cake. They're spending today catching up on housework and cleaning in corners (how jolly).
Carol has just phoned - they've caught up on sleep after their night flight and are busy cutting hedges today (another fun activity - NOT). They had a good holiday in Tenerife, did lots of walking and reading. She says she enjoyed two books currently in the best-seller lists, "The Year of the Rat" Clare Furniss and "The Boy That Never Was" Karen Perry. I think I'm going to get Bill Bryson's new one. I'll tell you the title when I can remember it.
Message from Maggie pointing out I'd put the wrong date. Thanks Mags - I'm prone to silly errors these days. Mags also said she's tentatively managed a bit of dusting and left the vacuuming, floor washing, etc to Bob. Very sensible - there's only so much you can do when you're propped up with crutches. Sounds like yet another household undertaking un-jolly activities.
25th May 2014
Carol and Gary are due home in the early hours of today - they've just had a break in Tenerife - back to reality for them and some acclimatising to do. It really is a rubbish weekend isn't it? Nothing for it but to make a cake - yes you've guessed it, a Mary Berry tray bake, what else?
Carol and Gary are due home in the early hours of today - they've just had a break in Tenerife - back to reality for them and some acclimatising to do. It really is a rubbish weekend isn't it? Nothing for it but to make a cake - yes you've guessed it, a Mary Berry tray bake, what else?
We've had a mad hour in the garden digging out the gillies and making space for sunflowers. Then we nipped to the garden centre to get some beetroot plants for Gary and yet another load of bird food. Bern's just called me to the window to see the jackdaw - he's swinging on the fat balls (the jackdaw, not Bern, in case I confused you. )
Don't you just love the witticisms of Oscar Wilde? Today (1895) he was sentenced to two years hard labour in Reading Jail because, to put it simply, society disapproved of his lifestyle. On his release he left England and spent the last three years of his life in Italy and France. He died in Paris, and his famous last words were "either that wallpaper goes or I do." Hope no one sues me for saying so, but I do think he bears a striking resemblance to Jonathan Ross.
24th May 2014
It's the anniversary of the sinking HMS Hood (1941) by the German battleship Bismark today. This reminds me of my Dad, he used to tell us about when he saw the Hood go down. There were only three survivors. It was the last battle cruiser built for the Navy. http://www.hmshood.com/history/denmarkstrait/bismarck1.htm
My Dad served on HMS Ark Royal, HMS Eagle, and HMS Victorious - all aircraft carriers of the Fleet Air Arm, but I don't know which one he was on when witnessing the battle of the Denmark Strait.
It's the anniversary of the sinking HMS Hood (1941) by the German battleship Bismark today. This reminds me of my Dad, he used to tell us about when he saw the Hood go down. There were only three survivors. It was the last battle cruiser built for the Navy. http://www.hmshood.com/history/denmarkstrait/bismarck1.htm
My Dad served on HMS Ark Royal, HMS Eagle, and HMS Victorious - all aircraft carriers of the Fleet Air Arm, but I don't know which one he was on when witnessing the battle of the Denmark Strait.
When I looked first thing the falcon box was empty. Now at 1.00pm there is one miserable little bird standing in the rain. I wonder where the others are. We've just been to Sainsbury's - it was crowded - looks like everyone's stayed at home this bank holiday. Definitely a woollies and wellies weekend. I went to commandeer a trolley while Bern parked the car - he saw Doreen and Brian - sorry to have missed you guys. Ooh, two little falcons now - where have the little blighters been? |
If anyone is willing to part with a disused mobile phone I'd be grateful to have it. My friend Andie Green has a grand-daughter with a rare form of epilepsy - they are fundraising buy a computer needed to calculate her complicated diet.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2618675/Girl-5-never-birthday-party-holiday-excitement-kill-her.html |
Too wet to do any gardening - too wet to mooch about. I curled up on the sofa and went to sleep then I watched "Come Dine With Me" - I totally disapprove of that programme as the people are usually full of their own self-importance and irritate me to bits. It's nearly as bad as watching Jeremy Kyle and I do give that one a miss.
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23rd May 2014
Judging by the lake on our garage's flat roof there's been quite a downpour in the night. I'm concerned about Jon (no 3 grandson) he's still in Thailand with his mates - hope they have the sense to keep out of the way of all the military goings on. They're on an island off the mainland at the moment and probably don't know the full story yet. Why must they go to such far-flung places? - I remember when the young considered Rhyl and Blackpool to be exciting. (Ugh! Perish the thought - maybe Thailand and it's Militia is a better option after all).
Aaaargh! I'm having palpitations here - one of the little falcons has hopped onto the outer ledge - hope his Mum comes soon and stuffs him back in the box. Mind you, he's looking pretty confident - I suppose he's the equivalent of teenager now. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Judging by the lake on our garage's flat roof there's been quite a downpour in the night. I'm concerned about Jon (no 3 grandson) he's still in Thailand with his mates - hope they have the sense to keep out of the way of all the military goings on. They're on an island off the mainland at the moment and probably don't know the full story yet. Why must they go to such far-flung places? - I remember when the young considered Rhyl and Blackpool to be exciting. (Ugh! Perish the thought - maybe Thailand and it's Militia is a better option after all).
Aaaargh! I'm having palpitations here - one of the little falcons has hopped onto the outer ledge - hope his Mum comes soon and stuffs him back in the box. Mind you, he's looking pretty confident - I suppose he's the equivalent of teenager now. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Anyone tried getting a medical appointment lately? I rang our surgery this morning and hung on for ages - it was constantly engaged. I rang several times with the same result to a point where I had to abandon the exercise. I called at the surgery this afternoon hoping a face-to-face meeting might help. I was offered an appointment for the middle of June. I indicated this was a little too long to wait so I was told to ring back next week. Square one. I despair.
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One of my bad habits is "doing" John Lewis store online - it's one of my favourite shops. I coerced Bern into taking me to the Solihull store this afternoon to look at a couple of things I've eyed-up online to find they didn't stock either. Waste of time in the traffic jams, waste of petrol, and very disappointing. And to cap it all, lunch time was over and we couldn't find anything tempting to eat in their café. The anticipation was great than the reality. |
We nearly forgot to do our duty today - we rushed off to the polling station late afternoon. Glad we went because we bumped into an old friend from our Fire Station days - Steve Jefimik. It's great to find old friends again and have a catch-up chat.
21st May 2014
Does anyone have a good tip for deterring squirrels? We're overrun with them now the young ones have arrived. I'm dubious about leaving the back door open in case they swarm in. OK so they're small and fluffy and folk are inclined to say "aaaah" but they're not indigenous and boy do they have attitude. Oh dear... I feel sorry for the Monsieur who made the costly cock-up with the French trains. I bet his career will be going off the rails - new trains were ordered but they're too wide for the platforms. Now they have to shell out again to alter the platforms so they can use the new trains. Billions of Euros down the shoot. One has to say "oops!"
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To stave off boredom we've just had a ride up to Tettenhall to look round the shops. There were plenty of "make yourself beautiful" shops, even shops with bling, clothes for holidays, shoes no one can walk in, and not a lot of anything else. And they wonder why high streets are dying and people shopping online. I admit I'm judging life from a septuagenarian viewpoint but it'd help if entrepreneurs considered the target market on their doorstep rather than pie-in-sky dreams of selling the stuff they'd like to wear themselves. Only thing I bought was some boiled ham in the Co-op for our lunchtime sandwich, and they didn't have the grace to offer me a bag. [Today's rant done and dusted].
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21st May 1916 - William Willet's Daylight Saving Scheme was implemented in the UK. He'd presented his idea in 1907 but it took Parliament until 1916 to decide it was a good strategy to employ during World War I. The idea was taken up by other European countries. Willet died in 1915 and never saw his brainchild in action. After a century of daylight saving, albeit tampered with now and then, controversy still exists about its usefulness. It's one of those projects that proves you can't please all the people all of the time. Incidentally, Mr Willet's grandson is a member of the Coldplay boy band.
http://www.rmg.co.uk/explore/astronomy-and-time/time-facts/spring-forward-100-years-of-british-summer-time#5 |
20th May 2014
Maybe today will be the day I get my mojo working. I've quite run out of steam these days. I'm hoping to get to the writers' group this afternoon despite not having done any homework. (I'll grovel at the appropriate moment). |
The Chelsea Flower Show is in full swing - some lovely sights to see. Then my cynical side kicks in and I wonder if the winning displays are the ones that had the most money chucked at them - there's very much an indication that no expense is spared but I have to admire the creativity and innovative ideas that the designers produce
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Oh dear... that little falcon is trying to hop back in with his siblings and can't quite make it. Thinking outside the box hasn't done him any good.
I'm just back from the writers' meeting - we had a good session including an interesting discussion on em dashes and en dashes (as you do). It's the first time I've driven my car for a fortnight, it feels good to be back in the land of the living. Thelma told us about an interesting exhibition she'd seen at Wightwick Manor - only a small display but an exquisite one of embroideries and quilting. She'd taken some photographs and it looks well worth a visit. I see the little falcon has returned to the fold thank goodness.
I'm just back from the writers' meeting - we had a good session including an interesting discussion on em dashes and en dashes (as you do). It's the first time I've driven my car for a fortnight, it feels good to be back in the land of the living. Thelma told us about an interesting exhibition she'd seen at Wightwick Manor - only a small display but an exquisite one of embroideries and quilting. She'd taken some photographs and it looks well worth a visit. I see the little falcon has returned to the fold thank goodness.
19th May 2014
Looks like we're getting another day when I'll not be doing much - I soon wilt in hot weather. I've just visited the falcons and there's a fluffy bundle outside the box, it looks like one of the chicks has fallen out. The owls are looking squashed and uncomfortable in their box. The garden birds are lively today - we have young blackbirds and starlings coming to the bird feeders, squawking and squabbling as they are fed. A couple of days ago we had a lovely shiny jackdaw.
It must be two-ish, I can hear the Archers tune from the radio in my den. I've been up there tidying and unearthing dust and fluff that had escaped our usual weekly clean-up. You move one piece of furniture and find all sorts. I've wrenched myself free from a mountain of empty tins that I'd saved. They're in the recycling bin so I hope I don't weaken and retrieve them. I hate clutter but I get these little lapses of "might come in useful" syndrome.
Looks like we're getting another day when I'll not be doing much - I soon wilt in hot weather. I've just visited the falcons and there's a fluffy bundle outside the box, it looks like one of the chicks has fallen out. The owls are looking squashed and uncomfortable in their box. The garden birds are lively today - we have young blackbirds and starlings coming to the bird feeders, squawking and squabbling as they are fed. A couple of days ago we had a lovely shiny jackdaw.
It must be two-ish, I can hear the Archers tune from the radio in my den. I've been up there tidying and unearthing dust and fluff that had escaped our usual weekly clean-up. You move one piece of furniture and find all sorts. I've wrenched myself free from a mountain of empty tins that I'd saved. They're in the recycling bin so I hope I don't weaken and retrieve them. I hate clutter but I get these little lapses of "might come in useful" syndrome.
18th May 2014
Now the warm weather is here and we sleep with the bedroom window open Bern reckons the birds wake him up as daylight arrives. I sleep through it all and never hear the dawn chorus. I've found a great website where you can hear birdsong and select which birds to listen to - you can orchestrate your own dawn chorus - brilliant!
http://songbird-survival.org.uk/dawnchorusday.html?gclid=CNXO1baKtb4CFSEOwwodD4YAbw
Yesterday's sunshine was such a treat - hope no one is all pink and blistery this morning.
Now the warm weather is here and we sleep with the bedroom window open Bern reckons the birds wake him up as daylight arrives. I sleep through it all and never hear the dawn chorus. I've found a great website where you can hear birdsong and select which birds to listen to - you can orchestrate your own dawn chorus - brilliant!
http://songbird-survival.org.uk/dawnchorusday.html?gclid=CNXO1baKtb4CFSEOwwodD4YAbw
Yesterday's sunshine was such a treat - hope no one is all pink and blistery this morning.
17th May 2014
Just wandered outside - it's a wonderful morning - sunshine, birds singing, everything's green. I wonder how the Hull City team are feeling, the underdogs playing Arsenal in today's cup final. Gary, Ian, Andy and Jon are dedicated Arsenal fans but I get a secret buzz out of seeing a no-hoper team win a forgone conclusion sort of game. But, if you want even more excitement than Hull v Arsenal try this one: it's Ian's Oz Rules Wolverhampton Wolverines team playing a team from Sheffield Thunder. Live game from Sheffield.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STC2_OAG-i0&feature=share I think the kick-off is at 12.30pm. (Sorry folks - I technology has failed us on this one - didn't get to see the match after all.)
I've communicated with Maggie this morning. She's still in hospital but all patched up by yesterday's op and expecting to be home within 4-5 days.
Bern's wallet has been through the wash this morning - he'd left it in his pocket. Guilty m'Lord - have to admit to money laundering. Zoomed over to Pattingham to see Jay and Lesley - they were busy mowing and hoeing but downed tools for cups of tea when the old folks turned up.
Just wandered outside - it's a wonderful morning - sunshine, birds singing, everything's green. I wonder how the Hull City team are feeling, the underdogs playing Arsenal in today's cup final. Gary, Ian, Andy and Jon are dedicated Arsenal fans but I get a secret buzz out of seeing a no-hoper team win a forgone conclusion sort of game. But, if you want even more excitement than Hull v Arsenal try this one: it's Ian's Oz Rules Wolverhampton Wolverines team playing a team from Sheffield Thunder. Live game from Sheffield.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STC2_OAG-i0&feature=share I think the kick-off is at 12.30pm. (Sorry folks - I technology has failed us on this one - didn't get to see the match after all.)
I've communicated with Maggie this morning. She's still in hospital but all patched up by yesterday's op and expecting to be home within 4-5 days.
Bern's wallet has been through the wash this morning - he'd left it in his pocket. Guilty m'Lord - have to admit to money laundering. Zoomed over to Pattingham to see Jay and Lesley - they were busy mowing and hoeing but downed tools for cups of tea when the old folks turned up.
16th May 2014
My first thoughts are with Maggie this morning (writers' group). She's in ward A5 New Cross with a broken hip which she acquired whilst mowing the lawn. It's actually the femur that's broken but high up so they're classing it as a broken hip - her op is today. I know loads of folk will join me in wishing you well Mags.
I've just checked on the owls and the falcons - all seem to have had a growth spurt - the nestboxes are looking a bit smelly these days. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html
My first thoughts are with Maggie this morning (writers' group). She's in ward A5 New Cross with a broken hip which she acquired whilst mowing the lawn. It's actually the femur that's broken but high up so they're classing it as a broken hip - her op is today. I know loads of folk will join me in wishing you well Mags.
I've just checked on the owls and the falcons - all seem to have had a growth spurt - the nestboxes are looking a bit smelly these days. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html
15th May 2014
While I was half-dozing in yesterday afternoon's sunshine (only for a few a minutes of course) there was a small aeroplane droning overhead for ages. I notice it's up there again this morning. My imagination leaps into overtime - the operative word being 'droning'. Maybe it is just that - a drone. I've been reading about them in the news just lately - they're versatile - incredibly manoeuvrable and make the perfect spy. The little white plane I saw looked a techno sort of thing as back and forth it went. Maybe it's doing the pictures for Google Earth. Or maybe it's a mapmaker sort of thing - perhaps, and this was my first thought when I saw it, someone is compiling a book entitled 'The Burglar's Directory of Back Alleys and Concealed Footpaths.' I bet it will be available by Christmas as the must-have gift for the dishonest. Me? A cynic? All right then, perhaps it is someone having a flying lesson, there are a couple of airfields on our doorstep,
Stephen Sutton gives me faith in people: RIP Stephen. He is a shining light who penetrates the dark corners.
While I was half-dozing in yesterday afternoon's sunshine (only for a few a minutes of course) there was a small aeroplane droning overhead for ages. I notice it's up there again this morning. My imagination leaps into overtime - the operative word being 'droning'. Maybe it is just that - a drone. I've been reading about them in the news just lately - they're versatile - incredibly manoeuvrable and make the perfect spy. The little white plane I saw looked a techno sort of thing as back and forth it went. Maybe it's doing the pictures for Google Earth. Or maybe it's a mapmaker sort of thing - perhaps, and this was my first thought when I saw it, someone is compiling a book entitled 'The Burglar's Directory of Back Alleys and Concealed Footpaths.' I bet it will be available by Christmas as the must-have gift for the dishonest. Me? A cynic? All right then, perhaps it is someone having a flying lesson, there are a couple of airfields on our doorstep,
Stephen Sutton gives me faith in people: RIP Stephen. He is a shining light who penetrates the dark corners.
14th May 2014
Not much happening at our place today so nothing to tell you. The falcons are looking good, proper little toddlers now, they're beginning to stand and stretch on their own. I think they're being toilet trained too, I saw one over by the ledge away from the others doing what it had to do before shuffling back to the warm corner. |
I've been watching the recent Alan Bennett programmes - he's a literary hero of mine and I'm a great fan of his 'Talking Heads' series. There's been several programmes in honour of his 80th birthday. I always admired the way he put up with Miss Shepherd, the lady who parked a van on his front driveway and lived there for 14 years. An unsavoury and insanitary situation. I believe he ended up keeping an eye on her during her latter years and was unable to have his garden looking tidy until after her demise.
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13th May 2014
I'm going to excuse myself from writers' meeting again, I'm still coughing too much to be in civilised company. I'm so looking forward to the warm weather we've been promised. I spent the morning coughing along with the rattle of the sewing machine. I've more or less finished the trousers but they're not up to Sewing Bee standard. They'll be OK with a long top which will hide the mishaps. Actually, another confession, after I'd sewn them together I had a couple of small pieces over. Don't know where they were supposed to go so I quietly put them in the waste bin and tried not to worry about them. As I said, with a long top no one will by any the wiser. Anyway, I've warned you on previous occasions that I'm a Jack-of-all-trades and master of none.
I'm going to excuse myself from writers' meeting again, I'm still coughing too much to be in civilised company. I'm so looking forward to the warm weather we've been promised. I spent the morning coughing along with the rattle of the sewing machine. I've more or less finished the trousers but they're not up to Sewing Bee standard. They'll be OK with a long top which will hide the mishaps. Actually, another confession, after I'd sewn them together I had a couple of small pieces over. Don't know where they were supposed to go so I quietly put them in the waste bin and tried not to worry about them. As I said, with a long top no one will by any the wiser. Anyway, I've warned you on previous occasions that I'm a Jack-of-all-trades and master of none.
12th May 2014
Another weekend done and dusted. We didn't achieve much - we're still a bit under the weather from coughs and colds - it seems to be hitting everyone. I'm hoping to complete my online course this week (community journalism) - I'm too old to put it into action but it's been an interesting little journey. I'm surprised by the amount of information I've received. I anticipated that the course would be just a 'taster' but in fact it has been surprisingly comprehensive. http://www.futurelearn.com Having waffled about learning stuff I hang my head in shame to tell you I indulge in the odd game of Candy Crush - goods news is, I've just got to level 74. Crash, bang wallop, and all the pretty little fishes came swimming across my screen. I play Scrabble too so maybe that cancels out the mindless one. I do both via Facebook. |
I've made a start on sewing a pair of trousers. I've put the walking foot into action and it works a treat on my stretchy fabric (see 3rd May). It's all due to too much TV - Sewing Bee got me sewing, something I've not done for years and the Mary Berry programme had me doing tray-bakes. Whatever's next... bring it on. |
Carol and Gary have been to a wedding this weekend in Cheshire. I spoke with her this morning and she and Gary have succumbed to this awful cold that we're all so kindly sharing. Jay and Les have been in Greywell visiting Lesley's parents. Ian and Jenny will have been doing something energetic - Oz Rules, Hockey, jogging, cyling - they wear me out thinking about it. Jon is still soaking up the sun in Thailand and Raj and Andy were having some tree stumps removed from their garden - hardly laugh-a-minute but there you go...
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11th May 2014
I confess to not watching the Eurovision Song Contest - I saw the winner on this morning's news. I thought she was quite brave to confront Russia with the issues associated with her appearance. Hope I'm not offending anyone but I'm actually unsure if it should be 'he' or 'she'. A glamorous bearded lady - I'm confused. I consulted one of my tomes this morning for some interesting trivia and was amused to find that the waltz hit the headlines when it was introduced to society on this date in 1812. It was instantly condemned as immoral. I wonder what the straight-laced people of 1812 would make of today's twerking and other such exhibitionism that goes on in public places. I manage to get a bit po-faced about the twerking thing (horrible word isn't it? It even sounds a bit rude.)
I confess to not watching the Eurovision Song Contest - I saw the winner on this morning's news. I thought she was quite brave to confront Russia with the issues associated with her appearance. Hope I'm not offending anyone but I'm actually unsure if it should be 'he' or 'she'. A glamorous bearded lady - I'm confused. I consulted one of my tomes this morning for some interesting trivia and was amused to find that the waltz hit the headlines when it was introduced to society on this date in 1812. It was instantly condemned as immoral. I wonder what the straight-laced people of 1812 would make of today's twerking and other such exhibitionism that goes on in public places. I manage to get a bit po-faced about the twerking thing (horrible word isn't it? It even sounds a bit rude.)
10th May 2014
Another night of coughing - I'm quite zombie-like this morning. Never mind, onward and upward, although I'm more onward and sideways at the moment. We have a message from Denise which resolves yesterday's mystery pile of white feathers. (Maggie and I feared they were the remains of a falcon chick). Happily it wasn't so, Denise and Jack saw mummy falcon pluck a pigeon before feeding it to all four chicks. Message from Doreen too: she's been watching them for several years and said at a time of high winds a chick was blown from the ledge and consequently perished.
Have you ever had a tune stuck in your head? The flipping Floral Dance has been buzzing round my brain ever since I mentioned it on Thursday (8th) - I can't shake it off.
Another night of coughing - I'm quite zombie-like this morning. Never mind, onward and upward, although I'm more onward and sideways at the moment. We have a message from Denise which resolves yesterday's mystery pile of white feathers. (Maggie and I feared they were the remains of a falcon chick). Happily it wasn't so, Denise and Jack saw mummy falcon pluck a pigeon before feeding it to all four chicks. Message from Doreen too: she's been watching them for several years and said at a time of high winds a chick was blown from the ledge and consequently perished.
Have you ever had a tune stuck in your head? The flipping Floral Dance has been buzzing round my brain ever since I mentioned it on Thursday (8th) - I can't shake it off.
We can't let May slip by without mentioning the lovely English Bluebell. They're beautiful right now - one of mother nature's triumphs. I love it when you catch a glimpse of them in a woodland and if the light is just right you see a purple haze. I'm glad we all refer to them as Bluebells rather than their botanical name, Hyacinthoides non-scripta, it doesn't sound quite so endearing.
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Here are a few bluebell
facts I found on the Woodland Trust website: http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/
1. In the Bronze Age, people used bluebell glue to attach feathers to their arrows
2. The Victorians used the starch from crushed bluebells to stiffen the ruffs of their collars and sleeves
3. Bluebell sap was used to bind pages to the spines of books
4. According to folklore, hearing a bluebell ring is a sign of impending death!
5. Legend also says that a field of bluebells is intricately woven with fairy enchantments
6. Bees can 'steal' nectar from bluebells by biting a hole in the bottom of the bell, reaching the nectar without pollinating the flower.
1. In the Bronze Age, people used bluebell glue to attach feathers to their arrows
2. The Victorians used the starch from crushed bluebells to stiffen the ruffs of their collars and sleeves
3. Bluebell sap was used to bind pages to the spines of books
4. According to folklore, hearing a bluebell ring is a sign of impending death!
5. Legend also says that a field of bluebells is intricately woven with fairy enchantments
6. Bees can 'steal' nectar from bluebells by biting a hole in the bottom of the bell, reaching the nectar without pollinating the flower.
I'm all behind today - time-wise I mean - I'll not contemplate the phrase in any other context as I may not like the result. Too much coughing in the night caused me to oversleep and I didn't get up until 9.00 am - shameful. Carol called in yesterday evening after work - all's well in Shrewsbury. We talked books and had a little cruise round Amazon looking for interesting reads. A concerned message from Maggie: she can only see three falcon chicks and there's a worrying pile of white feathers on the ledge. Damian's been keeping watch too (Hi Damian). I've just had a look and there's definitely four little heads visible. They get in such a convoluted huddle it's only at feeding time you get chance to count them and I think there's one chick a bit smaller than his siblings so he disappears when they're bundled together.
Today's the day, in 1671, when this guy, Thomas Blood, almost got away with the crown jewels. His family were English protestants who settled in Ireland. He was quite a charmer with the ability to be very persuasive. He struck up an acquaintance with the keeper of the royal regalia, gained his trust and arranged a private visit for himself and two 'friends' to view the jewels. Once inside they gagged Edwards, the keeper, and almost bludgeoned him to death. Blood and Co escaped with the crown and orb but were chased and caught by Mr Edwards' brother-in-law. They were brought to trial before King Charles 11. Using his slippery charm Blood succeeded in securing not only a pardon but also a grant of land in Ireland, plus other favours. What an odd story - and what an odd outcome. It almost parallels what's going on today, giving a twist to a couple of old adages, applicable to this story and today's goings on.... "Cheats DO prosper" and "Crime DOES pay."
8th May 2014
I'm still lumbered with this horrible cold and sore throat so I'm giving art class a miss today, I'd rather not share my germs. The downside of that is I may end up waffling for England just to squander time. Anyone use What's App? I've just sent a (croaky) voice message to Jon in Thailand at no cost to either of us - it's an app worth downloading for such occasions. Second thoughts... maybe I shouldn't have sent that message. Poor Jon, just what you need when you're on holiday with a few mates is your Granny hounding you and telling you to 'behave'. Oh well... can't retrieve it now. What a dull damp day - I can hear the rain pattering on the flat roof - even the gormless pigeons are hiding out of the wet. Looks like I'll need to do my snail patrol later if and when we get a dry moment. We must have super-snails in our garden. Bern found two granddad sized ones in the pot of hostas - and that's a pot with snail pellets and an anti-snail copper strip round it - is there anything that effectively deters these varmints?
The little falcons are huddled against the wall, barely keeping dry: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Thought you might like to see the BBC Barn Owl webcam: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html
I'm still lumbered with this horrible cold and sore throat so I'm giving art class a miss today, I'd rather not share my germs. The downside of that is I may end up waffling for England just to squander time. Anyone use What's App? I've just sent a (croaky) voice message to Jon in Thailand at no cost to either of us - it's an app worth downloading for such occasions. Second thoughts... maybe I shouldn't have sent that message. Poor Jon, just what you need when you're on holiday with a few mates is your Granny hounding you and telling you to 'behave'. Oh well... can't retrieve it now. What a dull damp day - I can hear the rain pattering on the flat roof - even the gormless pigeons are hiding out of the wet. Looks like I'll need to do my snail patrol later if and when we get a dry moment. We must have super-snails in our garden. Bern found two granddad sized ones in the pot of hostas - and that's a pot with snail pellets and an anti-snail copper strip round it - is there anything that effectively deters these varmints?
The little falcons are huddled against the wall, barely keeping dry: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Thought you might like to see the BBC Barn Owl webcam: http://www.somersetwildlife.org/barn_owl_web_cam.html
May 8th is a very special day in Cornwall when one of the oldest surviving UK customs the Helston Furry Dance (now known as the Floral or Flora Dance) takes place. It dates back to Pagan times celebrating the coming of Spring. The big bass drum strikes the first beat of the dance at seven in the morning,
the spirit of the day is stirred and celebrations commence. Some eighty
couples dance through the streets, entering selected houses and shops to drive
out the darkness of winter and bring in the light of spring.
Later in the day the colourful Pageant, known as Hal an Tow, tells the history of Helston with the participating characters singing about the challenge of the Spanish Armada, the English patron saint, St. George and the fight between St Michael and the devil. |
The event was brought to the attention of the wider public in 1977 when a recording of the tune by Brighouse and Rastrick Brass Band reached No.2 in the British pop charts. Terry Wogan played it on his radio show, and he began singing along to parts of the tune. Some listeners found this annoying and some were amused. He released his own version of the full song which made it to number 21 in January 1978.
May 1911: a young musician and composer of light music, Katie Moss, visited the Cornish mining town of Helston. She witnessed the traditional Flora Day celebrations: a day-long jig through the town performed to a simple, infectious refrain. The joy of the experience inspired her to jot down some lyrics : "I thought I heard the curious tone/ Of the cornet, clarinet and big trombone/ Fiddle, cello, big bass drum/ Bassoon, flute and euphonium..
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http://www.brighouseandrastrickband.co.uk/history/floral_dance.htm
left click on the link above then scroll down until you get to the video... here's the words so you can sing along with it. Sound quality is a bit 'iffy' as it's an old recording (1977). As I walked out on a summer night When stars in heav'n were shining bright Far away from the footlight's glare Into the sweet and scented air Of a quaint old Cornish town Born from afar on the gentle breeze Joining the murmur of the summer seas Distant tones of an old world dance Played by the village band perchance On the calm air came floating down I thought I could hear the curious tone Of the cornet, clarinet and big trombone Fiddle, cello, big bass drum Bassoon, flute and euphonium Far away, as in a trance I heard the sound of the Floral Dance And soon I hear such a bustling and prancing And then I saw the whole village was dancing In and out of the houses they came Old folk, young folk, all the same, In that quaint old Cornish town. (Words Katie Moss 'The Floral Dance' 1911) |
All's well with our world - after more muttering, unplugging HDMIs (???) and replacing with SCARTs (???), wires all over the place, switch it off, switch it on, Bern has got the telly working.
7th May 2014
I have to wait in for the BT man so I was up early this morning - our time slot for the visit is 8am - 1pm. I'd hate to get caught in my PJs - not a pretty sight when I'm all rumpled and yawning. Carol has just phoned, her usual drive-to-work call. She's had a message from Jon to say all's well in Thailand.
Well, the BT man has been, he's changed the home hub and brought a new TV box thing. Engineer said "I don't do boxes I only do broadband," so we removed the old box and connected the new one ourselves (our telly comes down the phone line too). Bern's just tried to switch the telly on and it seems to have died. There will now be a long session of unplugging, replugging, wires and strange whirring.... fingers crossed. Still no life in the TV, We've just revisited the paperwork and it says the TV service will commence on the 8th (thumps side of head in a durrr gesture) We should have waited until tomorrow to connect the box thing. We couldn't face all that plugging/unplugging again so Bern brought the bedroom TV down for this evening so we're looking at a small working TV perched in front of a larger dead one. In case you're technically minded the small one works because it's not coming down the phone line it's one of those 'smart' TVs that can think for itself and doesn't need BT input. What a fiasco just to watch Corrie.
I have to wait in for the BT man so I was up early this morning - our time slot for the visit is 8am - 1pm. I'd hate to get caught in my PJs - not a pretty sight when I'm all rumpled and yawning. Carol has just phoned, her usual drive-to-work call. She's had a message from Jon to say all's well in Thailand.
Well, the BT man has been, he's changed the home hub and brought a new TV box thing. Engineer said "I don't do boxes I only do broadband," so we removed the old box and connected the new one ourselves (our telly comes down the phone line too). Bern's just tried to switch the telly on and it seems to have died. There will now be a long session of unplugging, replugging, wires and strange whirring.... fingers crossed. Still no life in the TV, We've just revisited the paperwork and it says the TV service will commence on the 8th (thumps side of head in a durrr gesture) We should have waited until tomorrow to connect the box thing. We couldn't face all that plugging/unplugging again so Bern brought the bedroom TV down for this evening so we're looking at a small working TV perched in front of a larger dead one. In case you're technically minded the small one works because it's not coming down the phone line it's one of those 'smart' TVs that can think for itself and doesn't need BT input. What a fiasco just to watch Corrie.
5th May 2014
Spring Bank Holiday - the eccentric English have for centuries dreamt up outlandish ways of occupying themselves on such a day. Rochester Kent: from the 1700s they've held a Sweeps' Festival - a day of fun for the young boys who were employed by chimney sweeps to do the dirty dangerous work they couldn't manage. The tradition died out after 1868 when the Climbing Boys Act was put into force; but was revived in 1981 with a modern Sweeps' Festival in the form of a colourful mix of music and dancing.
Another fun event was chasing a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a 1:2 gradient hill. This mad and dangerous chase down Coopers Hill, Gloucestershire has been happening annually since the mid-1700s. It's quite extreme and many get injured - in recent years the authorities have insisted they use a foam 'cheese' in the interests of safety. Then we have Well Dressing: this happens mainly in the Derbyshire and Staffordshire area. Hundreds of hours of work go into creating the fantastic flower decorations.
Anyone for shin-kicking? Also known as "The Cotswolds Olimpicks". It's been going on for 400 years. A set of rules and a referee ensure fair play - if you can call shin-kicking play. About 100 years ago someone had the bright idea of playing Water Football. It still takes place in the River Windrush in rural Gloucestershire. The crowd who gather to watch are advised to wear waterproofs.
You might like to join in the Tetbury Wool Sack Races: an event dating from the 17th century - participants enter to demonstrate their health and fitness by charging up and down Gumstool Hill (1:4) carrying a 60 lb wool sack calling at the Crown Inn pub at the top and the Royal Oak at the bottom.
We decided to pass on all the above and pottered in the garden doing a bit of general tidying. Jay and Les called in, we rustled up some impromptu sausage sandwiches for them while they related their week's news. Major event was the VW campervan windscreen shattering on the motorway as Jay was driving to work early one morning.
8.30 pm Just had a long chat with Jon (No 3 grandson) he was in the departure lounge trying to pass the time before taking off for a month in Thailand. I swamped him with Granny advice to which he responded, 'Don't worry Gran.' Of course my wise words went in one ear and dissipated immediately.
Spring Bank Holiday - the eccentric English have for centuries dreamt up outlandish ways of occupying themselves on such a day. Rochester Kent: from the 1700s they've held a Sweeps' Festival - a day of fun for the young boys who were employed by chimney sweeps to do the dirty dangerous work they couldn't manage. The tradition died out after 1868 when the Climbing Boys Act was put into force; but was revived in 1981 with a modern Sweeps' Festival in the form of a colourful mix of music and dancing.
Another fun event was chasing a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a 1:2 gradient hill. This mad and dangerous chase down Coopers Hill, Gloucestershire has been happening annually since the mid-1700s. It's quite extreme and many get injured - in recent years the authorities have insisted they use a foam 'cheese' in the interests of safety. Then we have Well Dressing: this happens mainly in the Derbyshire and Staffordshire area. Hundreds of hours of work go into creating the fantastic flower decorations.
Anyone for shin-kicking? Also known as "The Cotswolds Olimpicks". It's been going on for 400 years. A set of rules and a referee ensure fair play - if you can call shin-kicking play. About 100 years ago someone had the bright idea of playing Water Football. It still takes place in the River Windrush in rural Gloucestershire. The crowd who gather to watch are advised to wear waterproofs.
You might like to join in the Tetbury Wool Sack Races: an event dating from the 17th century - participants enter to demonstrate their health and fitness by charging up and down Gumstool Hill (1:4) carrying a 60 lb wool sack calling at the Crown Inn pub at the top and the Royal Oak at the bottom.
We decided to pass on all the above and pottered in the garden doing a bit of general tidying. Jay and Les called in, we rustled up some impromptu sausage sandwiches for them while they related their week's news. Major event was the VW campervan windscreen shattering on the motorway as Jay was driving to work early one morning.
8.30 pm Just had a long chat with Jon (No 3 grandson) he was in the departure lounge trying to pass the time before taking off for a month in Thailand. I swamped him with Granny advice to which he responded, 'Don't worry Gran.' Of course my wise words went in one ear and dissipated immediately.
4th May 2014
Haven't a clue what my lot are doing, if anything, over the bank holiday. I think Carol and Gary will be planting vegetables - they're on their annual mission to grow their five-a-day - a worthy task indeed. Bern's just gone to do his weekly visit to his Mum. I'm about to wave a duster at the furniture (a token gesture you understand) penance for having just devoured part of an egg - a chocolate egg, left over from Easter - how naughty is that when the doctor says maintain a low fat diet? I'm feeling rebellious, so there! It gave me an energy boost so I dusted the blinds as well.
Haven't a clue what my lot are doing, if anything, over the bank holiday. I think Carol and Gary will be planting vegetables - they're on their annual mission to grow their five-a-day - a worthy task indeed. Bern's just gone to do his weekly visit to his Mum. I'm about to wave a duster at the furniture (a token gesture you understand) penance for having just devoured part of an egg - a chocolate egg, left over from Easter - how naughty is that when the doctor says maintain a low fat diet? I'm feeling rebellious, so there! It gave me an energy boost so I dusted the blinds as well.
Congratulations Wolves - they're going up into the Championship League for next season. I can hear Bern tut-tutting... he's just read out an item about Wolverhampton Swimming Baths - they've dyed the water an old gold colour to celebrate the Wolves' achievement. Mmm... I've thought about it for all of two seconds and old gold sounds rather like dark yellow. Not one's favourite colour to be splashing about in when you think what some people might do in the swimming baths!
6.15 p.m. Despite looking a little lifeless earlier today, the falcon chicks are still thriving, I've just seen all four being fed: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Another couple of sporting items.
No 1 grandson's promotional video for his team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thJe9Kgoyh8&feature=player_embedded
Congratulations JENNY (Ian's partner) 21st woman over the finishing line of today's Lichfield Half-Marathon and she did it in a good time - excellent result for a first try. Well done Jen, all that training and running in the rain has paid off.
6.15 p.m. Despite looking a little lifeless earlier today, the falcon chicks are still thriving, I've just seen all four being fed: http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/
Another couple of sporting items.
No 1 grandson's promotional video for his team: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=thJe9Kgoyh8&feature=player_embedded
Congratulations JENNY (Ian's partner) 21st woman over the finishing line of today's Lichfield Half-Marathon and she did it in a good time - excellent result for a first try. Well done Jen, all that training and running in the rain has paid off.
3rd May 2014
A bit of excitement this morning - my parsley seeds and sunflower seeds are through - you can see that I err on the edgier side of life! What a stupid word 'edgier' - I hear the media people describing something as 'edgy' - in my book edgy means 'on edge or nervous ' yet today it has other connotations such as different or a bit daring. Okay, I have to agree, language is ever-changing; organic even in the strictest sense of the word, and continually evolving, but sometimes it gallops and we lose track of the original meaning of some words. Blimey - who'd have thought a few green bits poking through the soil would have caused a soapbox moment (sorreeeee). I blame watching too much telly as the cause for my tripping out these buzz words. (I ask you - 'buzz words' - another silly phrase).
A bit of excitement this morning - my parsley seeds and sunflower seeds are through - you can see that I err on the edgier side of life! What a stupid word 'edgier' - I hear the media people describing something as 'edgy' - in my book edgy means 'on edge or nervous ' yet today it has other connotations such as different or a bit daring. Okay, I have to agree, language is ever-changing; organic even in the strictest sense of the word, and continually evolving, but sometimes it gallops and we lose track of the original meaning of some words. Blimey - who'd have thought a few green bits poking through the soil would have caused a soapbox moment (sorreeeee). I blame watching too much telly as the cause for my tripping out these buzz words. (I ask you - 'buzz words' - another silly phrase).
What's to do today? Right now we're off to do the supermarket stint, what fun. It has to be Waitrose this week because we're out of a particular brand of porridge oats and I can only find them in Waitrose. Flahavan's Irish Organic Jumbo Oats - "how edgy," I hear you say.
N.B. I see that you can get these oats on Amazon but buying your breakfast from Amazon seems a bit, well.... common. Anyway, I wouldn't want the postman shoving oats through the letterbox. |
STOP PRESS: message from Maggie a few moments ago: " I'm worried about the little chic too, but while I was watching one adult falcon feeding them, the other one came in with a bird and started feeding the tiny chic. The others were too busy feeding their faces to notice. Ha!"
Denise has popped in to say she too has seen all four chicks being fed today. |
A little parcel arrived this morning - a small matchbox size thing contained in a Jiffy bag. I ordered it online a couple of days ago at a cost of almost £30. Well I've opened it, fiddled with it, turned it over and over, wiggled the sticky-out bits, but can't quite fathom how I'm going to fit it. I've looked at the how-to-do-it videos on Youtube, read all the waffle on the website, but it's still a bit of a mystery. I bet by now you've guessed what it is. Yes, it's a 'walking foot' also known as an 'even feed foot' for my sewing machine. I did warn you earlier that I operate on the threshold of adventure. Please yell if you happen to be a walking foot expert - I may need a little help.
2nd May 2014
Carol rang first thing - she said the Wednesday singing session was enjoyable and she's keen to go again. It was all very jolly, just join in and sing sort of thing. I've just been watching the falcon chicks again, it looks cold and breezy up on that ledge. Mummy falcon was busy bundling them together to keep them warm. The weekend weather forecast isn't too exciting - I doubt we'll be having sitting in the sunshine moments. Oh well, at least they're all getting another Monday off work although we've hardly drawn breath since the last bank holiday. Jay has had a busy work week including a trip to Sussex and back in one day - with such a long working day it's no wonder they disappear off my radar now and again. Roy's been this morning for some typing - I'll be free, retired, do-as-I-please, by the end of this month. I have to get them all to decide which/what, of the mountains of their stuff on my computer, they want to save. Alan called in yesterday evening - he's donating some of Anita's text books on writing to our writers' group - a big thank you to the Smith family - another little reason why Anita will never be far away.
Carol rang first thing - she said the Wednesday singing session was enjoyable and she's keen to go again. It was all very jolly, just join in and sing sort of thing. I've just been watching the falcon chicks again, it looks cold and breezy up on that ledge. Mummy falcon was busy bundling them together to keep them warm. The weekend weather forecast isn't too exciting - I doubt we'll be having sitting in the sunshine moments. Oh well, at least they're all getting another Monday off work although we've hardly drawn breath since the last bank holiday. Jay has had a busy work week including a trip to Sussex and back in one day - with such a long working day it's no wonder they disappear off my radar now and again. Roy's been this morning for some typing - I'll be free, retired, do-as-I-please, by the end of this month. I have to get them all to decide which/what, of the mountains of their stuff on my computer, they want to save. Alan called in yesterday evening - he's donating some of Anita's text books on writing to our writers' group - a big thank you to the Smith family - another little reason why Anita will never be far away.
Late afternoon:
I've just checked on the little peregrine falcon chicks. They were being fed but there is one of the four that isn't getting his share of the grub - he's getting shouldered out by the other, more lively ones. Denise and Jack are getting worried about him too. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ |
1st May 2014
First art class of the summer term this morning. I'm still clueless, empty-headed, and don't know what to paint. I'll try to catch up with Carol to see if she managed to warble her way through her first singing session yesterday evening. Must check on the little falcons before I rush out. Ssh... it looks like the mum is fast asleep, traffic roaring below, and all's well on the concrete ledge. (You'll find the link on Wednesday's post 30th, below).
Back again. We had a good morning at art class. Maggie tried out soft pastels for the first time, Jose was working with acrylics, Hilary is doing a water colour still life of shells, and I managed a not very accurate pen and wash picture of Caerphilly Castle. Thing is, the real castle has a leaning tower but I've straightened it up. (:Because I could, in case you're wondering why). Hope no Welsh pedants get to see my picture, it looks as much like Caerphilly Castle as our house looks like Buckingham Palace. Loads of better stuff than mine going on the room - at coffee time we all buzz round looking at each other's work which inevitably prompts discussion.
The water butts were full to the brim when I got home - we had quite a deluge around mid-morning. If Green Man is out trying to cop off with the May Queen (as he's supposed to today) they'll get wet through.
First art class of the summer term this morning. I'm still clueless, empty-headed, and don't know what to paint. I'll try to catch up with Carol to see if she managed to warble her way through her first singing session yesterday evening. Must check on the little falcons before I rush out. Ssh... it looks like the mum is fast asleep, traffic roaring below, and all's well on the concrete ledge. (You'll find the link on Wednesday's post 30th, below).
Back again. We had a good morning at art class. Maggie tried out soft pastels for the first time, Jose was working with acrylics, Hilary is doing a water colour still life of shells, and I managed a not very accurate pen and wash picture of Caerphilly Castle. Thing is, the real castle has a leaning tower but I've straightened it up. (:Because I could, in case you're wondering why). Hope no Welsh pedants get to see my picture, it looks as much like Caerphilly Castle as our house looks like Buckingham Palace. Loads of better stuff than mine going on the room - at coffee time we all buzz round looking at each other's work which inevitably prompts discussion.
The water butts were full to the brim when I got home - we had quite a deluge around mid-morning. If Green Man is out trying to cop off with the May Queen (as he's supposed to today) they'll get wet through.
It's time to celebrate the Beltane Fire Festival: the
Celtic May Day. It officially begins at
moonrise on May Day Eve and marks the beginning of the second half of the
ancient Celtic year. It was a pastoral
festival marking the arrival of warmer weather, better grazing, and the day
when the cattle were turned out to wild pasture. In early Celtic times the Druids kindled the
Beltane fires with incantations. Later
the Christian church took over the Beltane observances and services were held
with a procession to the fields or hills, where the priest kindled the
fire.
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30th April 2014
What a lovely morning, I've just been sitting in the sunshine for a few minutes and was serenaded by a blackbird. The other day I found a blackbirds' egg on the ground by the dustbin. It was empty with the top neatly nibbled off leaving the rest of the shell undamaged. Is this the work of squirrels or less desirable rodents?
Time to check out your maypole and get its ribbons on ready for tomorrow. Legend has it that witches are out and about on the Eve of Mayday - a day for leaving a bulb of precautionary garlic by the doorstep. Second thoughts - does it work on witches or just for vampires?
I've just been to visit Doreen's falcons. The chicks are alone at the moment - I suppose the parents have gone to find it some lunch. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ You can see the city traffic moving below, it's tempting to wait to see the parents return... Aw... I've just popped back and the mother is now feeding the four chicks with something dead and bloody - the footage is amazing. (left click on the link above and then left click on the blue address strip).
Message from Maggie - she's joined the falcon watching team. Message from Carol to say she's off to her first session with a singing group tonight - I wonder if they'll do "hey nonny no" type songs or something more modern.
What a lovely morning, I've just been sitting in the sunshine for a few minutes and was serenaded by a blackbird. The other day I found a blackbirds' egg on the ground by the dustbin. It was empty with the top neatly nibbled off leaving the rest of the shell undamaged. Is this the work of squirrels or less desirable rodents?
Time to check out your maypole and get its ribbons on ready for tomorrow. Legend has it that witches are out and about on the Eve of Mayday - a day for leaving a bulb of precautionary garlic by the doorstep. Second thoughts - does it work on witches or just for vampires?
I've just been to visit Doreen's falcons. The chicks are alone at the moment - I suppose the parents have gone to find it some lunch. http://www.ntu.ac.uk/ecoweb/biodiversity/falcons/ You can see the city traffic moving below, it's tempting to wait to see the parents return... Aw... I've just popped back and the mother is now feeding the four chicks with something dead and bloody - the footage is amazing. (left click on the link above and then left click on the blue address strip).
Message from Maggie - she's joined the falcon watching team. Message from Carol to say she's off to her first session with a singing group tonight - I wonder if they'll do "hey nonny no" type songs or something more modern.
29th April 2014
Following on from yesterday, I've spent ages ferreting up the back alleys of the Internet and still haven't found the right fabric to get me sewing. Some of the sites don't give enough information - it looks OK on the picture but colours are not always true and you can't feel the weight and thickness of the fabric, some don't even tell you if it's washable. Perhaps it's a project that will have to sit on a back burner.
Did you watch that programme about the moon landing? Bern sleeps through anything so I was able to watch it in bed. There is a growing conviction amongst many Americans that the moon landing of the sixties didn't actually happen. They maintain that the TV footage we watched was faked. The arguments and photographic evidence on last night's programme seemed pretty convincing in backing up their theory and, in my view, alarming if the American government did indeed condone a deception. (Monday 28th - Chanel 5 - 11.00 pm).
I'm just going to have a peep at Doreen's falcons now. Back later.
Oh dear, my prattle about fabric has prompted a message from Carol - she recalls our trips to Beattie's dress making department when she was small and how she loathed waiting while I waded through pattern books and went round feeling all the fabrics - she reckons she's scarred for life. Maybe that's why she hated sewing lessons at school.
The writers' meeting was good with much discussion about the Jenny Éclair book. So much so, that we considered contacting the writer to see if she would settle our debate and confirm who had really "done it".
Following on from yesterday, I've spent ages ferreting up the back alleys of the Internet and still haven't found the right fabric to get me sewing. Some of the sites don't give enough information - it looks OK on the picture but colours are not always true and you can't feel the weight and thickness of the fabric, some don't even tell you if it's washable. Perhaps it's a project that will have to sit on a back burner.
Did you watch that programme about the moon landing? Bern sleeps through anything so I was able to watch it in bed. There is a growing conviction amongst many Americans that the moon landing of the sixties didn't actually happen. They maintain that the TV footage we watched was faked. The arguments and photographic evidence on last night's programme seemed pretty convincing in backing up their theory and, in my view, alarming if the American government did indeed condone a deception. (Monday 28th - Chanel 5 - 11.00 pm).
I'm just going to have a peep at Doreen's falcons now. Back later.
Oh dear, my prattle about fabric has prompted a message from Carol - she recalls our trips to Beattie's dress making department when she was small and how she loathed waiting while I waded through pattern books and went round feeling all the fabrics - she reckons she's scarred for life. Maybe that's why she hated sewing lessons at school.
The writers' meeting was good with much discussion about the Jenny Éclair book. So much so, that we considered contacting the writer to see if she would settle our debate and confirm who had really "done it".
27th April 2014
All in all a quiet weekend. I've been flicking through my reference books (I'm addicted to dictionaries and books that list odd facts) and discovered that today is St Zita's day. "So what?" I hear you say. I agree, I've never heard of her either. My book tells me she's the patron saint of housewives, servants and bakers - nice of them to lump us all together, we women know our place (hmph!!!). It also says that people are known to invoke St Zita when they have lost their keys. What codswallop! The church says we shouldn't dabble with the occult - surely "invoking" means calling up someone, in this case St Zita (Italy 1272) a lengthy time travel journey for her just to find some keys - the exercise sounds like black magic to me. I Googled St Zita and arrived at Amazon where I found a book by Ruth Rendell called "The St Zita Society" - reviews weren't very good so I'll give it a miss. I think I'll send St Zita back to 1272, I don't think she'd be on our wavelength.
Late afternoon: we're just back from town - Bern needed a new mobile this time - we seem unable to live with them now. Same scenario as when I bought mine a few weeks back - if you want the instructions book you have to download it from a website and print it yourself - all 117 pages of it.
All in all a quiet weekend. I've been flicking through my reference books (I'm addicted to dictionaries and books that list odd facts) and discovered that today is St Zita's day. "So what?" I hear you say. I agree, I've never heard of her either. My book tells me she's the patron saint of housewives, servants and bakers - nice of them to lump us all together, we women know our place (hmph!!!). It also says that people are known to invoke St Zita when they have lost their keys. What codswallop! The church says we shouldn't dabble with the occult - surely "invoking" means calling up someone, in this case St Zita (Italy 1272) a lengthy time travel journey for her just to find some keys - the exercise sounds like black magic to me. I Googled St Zita and arrived at Amazon where I found a book by Ruth Rendell called "The St Zita Society" - reviews weren't very good so I'll give it a miss. I think I'll send St Zita back to 1272, I don't think she'd be on our wavelength.
Late afternoon: we're just back from town - Bern needed a new mobile this time - we seem unable to live with them now. Same scenario as when I bought mine a few weeks back - if you want the instructions book you have to download it from a website and print it yourself - all 117 pages of it.
26th April 2014
Carol, Andrew and Rajni were here this morning - we continued discussions on their wedding plans - I guess it will be a major topic between now and December and before we know it we'll all be mithering about what to wear. Phil and Wendy phoned (my sister in Caerphilly) I'd sent a book about keeping chickens for his birthday (happy birthday Phil). We clucked about the joys of hens and their eggs for quite a while. All seems well in Wales.
I see that today is the anniversary of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster - a nuclear power plant went out of control in Ukraine - the massive explosion blew a 1,000 ton cover off the reactor - a bang of unimaginable scale. Real scary stuff.
Carol, Andrew and Rajni were here this morning - we continued discussions on their wedding plans - I guess it will be a major topic between now and December and before we know it we'll all be mithering about what to wear. Phil and Wendy phoned (my sister in Caerphilly) I'd sent a book about keeping chickens for his birthday (happy birthday Phil). We clucked about the joys of hens and their eggs for quite a while. All seems well in Wales.
I see that today is the anniversary of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster - a nuclear power plant went out of control in Ukraine - the massive explosion blew a 1,000 ton cover off the reactor - a bang of unimaginable scale. Real scary stuff.
25th April 2014
Friday has crept in again - time slips through my fingers like water. (Bit of a mixed metaphor methinks - sorry, but you know what I mean). My friend Doreen had read yesterday's entry about my bad back - she e-mailed her sympathy and told me about her bad back. Hope it's easier today Doreen. I thought here we are two old ladies comparing backs, yet I remember when Doreen and I did tap-dancing, disco- dancing and could sit up all night just talking and still be on time for work in the morning. How priorities change. I can barely believe there was a time when the colour of my nails, hair, lipstick, and style of handbag actually mattered. I think callow youth has had its day, in my case anyway.
Friday has crept in again - time slips through my fingers like water. (Bit of a mixed metaphor methinks - sorry, but you know what I mean). My friend Doreen had read yesterday's entry about my bad back - she e-mailed her sympathy and told me about her bad back. Hope it's easier today Doreen. I thought here we are two old ladies comparing backs, yet I remember when Doreen and I did tap-dancing, disco- dancing and could sit up all night just talking and still be on time for work in the morning. How priorities change. I can barely believe there was a time when the colour of my nails, hair, lipstick, and style of handbag actually mattered. I think callow youth has had its day, in my case anyway.
24th April 2014
Happy Birthday to Ethel - Bern's Mum is 98 today - we'll be visiting later. I was doing my morning snail patrol this morning and I bent over to grab a particularly big one that was eating the mint - whew! I felt my back give way and now I'm hobbling round as if I'm as old as Ethel. That's judgement on me for putting paid to marauding molluscs. There's no writers' group or art class meetings this week - we're still on Easter break so I end up wandering round like a dog in a fair (an expression my mum used to use - more refined that the f*** in a colander one that sometimes gets mentioned in our household - maybe mucky metaphors should be banned!).
Happy Birthday to Ethel - Bern's Mum is 98 today - we'll be visiting later. I was doing my morning snail patrol this morning and I bent over to grab a particularly big one that was eating the mint - whew! I felt my back give way and now I'm hobbling round as if I'm as old as Ethel. That's judgement on me for putting paid to marauding molluscs. There's no writers' group or art class meetings this week - we're still on Easter break so I end up wandering round like a dog in a fair (an expression my mum used to use - more refined that the f*** in a colander one that sometimes gets mentioned in our household - maybe mucky metaphors should be banned!).
23rd April 2014
There's no getting away from Shakespeare and St George today. The luvvies were there on breakfast telly doing their stuff and declaring their undying devotion to the great William. Personally, I'm partial to the sonnets and particularly admire the form of a Shakespearian sonnet with its iambic pentameter and rigid rules, but I'm not so keen on the heavy stuff. And as for St George, so many countries claim him as their hero, I'm wondering if he really belongs to us.
There's no getting away from Shakespeare and St George today. The luvvies were there on breakfast telly doing their stuff and declaring their undying devotion to the great William. Personally, I'm partial to the sonnets and particularly admire the form of a Shakespearian sonnet with its iambic pentameter and rigid rules, but I'm not so keen on the heavy stuff. And as for St George, so many countries claim him as their hero, I'm wondering if he really belongs to us.
The twenty-third of April is also the birthday (1751) of J M W Turner - one of my favourite artists. I saw this painting, "The Fighting Temeraire", in the National Gallery last spring. It's a memorable work when you see if for real - amazing colours and layering of paint - light shines from it - and it looks as fresh and new as if it was painted yesterday.
The 98-gun ship 'Temeraire' played a major role in Nelson's victory at the Battle of Trafalgar (1805). After the battle the ship became known as the 'Fighting Temeraire'. It remained in service until 1838 when she was decommissioned and broken up. It is thought Turner wished to evoke a sense of loss, rather than making an exact recording of the event. The spectacular sunset draws a parallel with the passing of the old warship. By contrast the new steam-powered tug is smaller and less dramatic. Turner was in his sixties when he painted 'The Fighting Temeraire'. demonstrating his mastery of techniques to suggest sea and sky; paint is laid on thickly to render the sun's rays striking the clouds. By contrast, the ship's rigging is meticulously painted. |
22nd April 2014
OK holiday over - chocolate banished - and Tuesday feels like Monday today. It doesn't take much to confuse my addled reasoning, I expect I'll be out of kilter for the rest of the week now. The Lark Ascending is playing right now on Classic FM so I'm transported to the sunlit countryside rather than our grey rained-on garden. Slugs and snails are out in force this morning, they're all climbing up the yukka - I'll be out there shortly collecting them into a plastic bag.
There's so much in this world I don't understand and one thing in particular is football. I admit to knowing as much about the offside rule as men know of the importance of handbags. Today's gripe is the sacking of the Manchester United manager. I suggest that sacking the non-scoring players might be more fair and more effective.
OK holiday over - chocolate banished - and Tuesday feels like Monday today. It doesn't take much to confuse my addled reasoning, I expect I'll be out of kilter for the rest of the week now. The Lark Ascending is playing right now on Classic FM so I'm transported to the sunlit countryside rather than our grey rained-on garden. Slugs and snails are out in force this morning, they're all climbing up the yukka - I'll be out there shortly collecting them into a plastic bag.
There's so much in this world I don't understand and one thing in particular is football. I admit to knowing as much about the offside rule as men know of the importance of handbags. Today's gripe is the sacking of the Manchester United manager. I suggest that sacking the non-scoring players might be more fair and more effective.
21st April 2014
Happy 88th Birthday Ma'am. I wonder if One will have a cake with 88 candles - I like to imagine Her Maj and her mates sitting round the table as she blows them all out. I like this latest photograph of the Queen, she looks very relaxed.
We're finally getting some April showers - pity they waited until the holiday weekend to arrive - nowt we can do about it so no point in complaining. Zoomed over to Shrewsbury this morning to see how Carol, Gary and Jon were enjoying the break. We arrived late morning just as they were dishing up eggs, bacon, beans, sausages, toast and marmalade for Jon and his five mates who had stayed over after a late night session of boogying - Bern managed to muscle in on the bangers and bacon, I settled for toast and a couple of chocolates. Back to our five-a-day and sensible eating tomorrow - or soonish anyway.
Happy 88th Birthday Ma'am. I wonder if One will have a cake with 88 candles - I like to imagine Her Maj and her mates sitting round the table as she blows them all out. I like this latest photograph of the Queen, she looks very relaxed.
We're finally getting some April showers - pity they waited until the holiday weekend to arrive - nowt we can do about it so no point in complaining. Zoomed over to Shrewsbury this morning to see how Carol, Gary and Jon were enjoying the break. We arrived late morning just as they were dishing up eggs, bacon, beans, sausages, toast and marmalade for Jon and his five mates who had stayed over after a late night session of boogying - Bern managed to muscle in on the bangers and bacon, I settled for toast and a couple of chocolates. Back to our five-a-day and sensible eating tomorrow - or soonish anyway.
20th April 2014
Happy Easter everyone. I've just been reading lengthy spiels about why Easter Sunday falls on different dates each year. The controversy is sparked by both political and religious arguments. Another spoke in the wheel is the fact that where Easter is concerned half Europe follows the Julian calendar whilst the other half follows the Gregorian calendar. The reasons are so convoluted, archaic, and generally disconcerting that I lost the will to live and suffered a sudden bout of atrophy and felt somewhat discombobulated (lovely word) when trying to get to the bottom of things, so I'm no wiser now. I just wish they'd stop messing about - Christmas Day is always on the 25th so why not give Easter a permanent date? Does anyone really care what Pope 'somebody' and various politicians said centuries ago?
Jay and Lesley came for supper tonight - we had a very non-traditional Easter Sunday meal: easy-peasy fajitas, green salad and a comforting sponge pudding and custard for afters.
Happy Easter everyone. I've just been reading lengthy spiels about why Easter Sunday falls on different dates each year. The controversy is sparked by both political and religious arguments. Another spoke in the wheel is the fact that where Easter is concerned half Europe follows the Julian calendar whilst the other half follows the Gregorian calendar. The reasons are so convoluted, archaic, and generally disconcerting that I lost the will to live and suffered a sudden bout of atrophy and felt somewhat discombobulated (lovely word) when trying to get to the bottom of things, so I'm no wiser now. I just wish they'd stop messing about - Christmas Day is always on the 25th so why not give Easter a permanent date? Does anyone really care what Pope 'somebody' and various politicians said centuries ago?
Jay and Lesley came for supper tonight - we had a very non-traditional Easter Sunday meal: easy-peasy fajitas, green salad and a comforting sponge pudding and custard for afters.
19th April 2014
I've had an e-mail from Roland - a gentle prod to start thinking about my next art project. Help......... ideas fail me. On the way to the supermarket we called on Rajni and Andy. He's still hobbling about on crutches and bored witless. We are all trying to convince him golf would be a better option than football - he's not sold on the idea (yet). Wedding plans are still the main topic of conversation. |
A moment of deja vu in Waitrose - who should go through the supermarket doors at the same time as us but Jay and Les. Shopping thoughts were quickly put aside and it was bacon butties and coffee in the café. Oh well... it's holiday time.
Carol and Gary have Grandad Chip for tea - they're not going to eat him, he's visiting for the night. Chip is Gary's Dad. |
18th April 2014
Ian has responded to my plea of the 15th (below) but the picture he sent to my phone is taken post-shower and change of clothes. Lovely pic Ian and Jenny (right) but a pre-clean up one would have been ideal - we hoped someone had captured the moment of impact. They say it's lucky to be pooped on - lucky you! It's time for hot cross buns, Easter bunnies, and chocolate eggs. The English name for the festival is derived from Eostre, a northern goddess of spring. The rebirth of growing things in spring after the long winter was a time of rejoicing in the pagan world. Christ's crucifixion and resurrection took place at this time and inevitably many primitive rites and symbols associated with ancient regeneration myths were carried into Christian rituals. All myth, legend, hearsay, of course so make of it what you will - but do enjoy some chocolate. We've just been over to Pattingham where we found Jay and Lesley busy gardening - Jay was sanding the back gate ready for a coat of paint and Lesley has been potting things and getting the greenhouse ready for action. We had tea and hot cross buns in the sunshine. When we told Jay we'd spotted a rabbit in his front garden he went out to look for it - penny dropped on finding chocolate eggs on the doorstep. NEWS FLASH: Bern is jumping up and down: Wolves 6 - Rotherham 4. Jubilant texts to Jay in Pattingham. Jenny and Ian have just called in for a cup of tea - they were en route from Devon back to Lichfield and calling on all the local relatives - they were still in flip-flops and holiday kit. |
17th April 2014
Oh dear - another ferry boat disaster in South Korea - more distraught families and harrowing times ahead for many. Our weather forecast indicates that the spring sunshine will be taking a break on Sunday and Monday - a sod's law moment just when everyone has a day off work. Phrrrew! (that's a spit-splutter sort of noise) - I was just drinking a mug of tea and I had a mouthful of something crunchy towards the end. I bet it's from yesterday, when Jose and I were in conference (gossiping for England) I'd left a low light under the kettle and it boiled dry. If we'd opted for a second cup of coffee I'd have discovered it, but we didn't and the kettle became a trifle overheated.
I've no idea what my crew have planned for the weekend - maybe they're gallivanting, maybe they're DIY-ing. I expect all will be revealed in the fullness of time.
Oh dear - another ferry boat disaster in South Korea - more distraught families and harrowing times ahead for many. Our weather forecast indicates that the spring sunshine will be taking a break on Sunday and Monday - a sod's law moment just when everyone has a day off work. Phrrrew! (that's a spit-splutter sort of noise) - I was just drinking a mug of tea and I had a mouthful of something crunchy towards the end. I bet it's from yesterday, when Jose and I were in conference (gossiping for England) I'd left a low light under the kettle and it boiled dry. If we'd opted for a second cup of coffee I'd have discovered it, but we didn't and the kettle became a trifle overheated.
I've no idea what my crew have planned for the weekend - maybe they're gallivanting, maybe they're DIY-ing. I expect all will be revealed in the fullness of time.
I've just been snooping round Facebook again. I found this lovely picture of my friend Maggie (aka Mags) looking relaxed on a recent holiday in Torquay. I bet she'll kill me when she sees this. And I reckon that big concrete face is saying "I have something in my eye...."
I'm wondering, was there life before Facebook? |
Maggie has left a message telling me she's just bought some oil pastels and soft pastels (she's still speaking to me as the message arrived prior to my posting the photo). I'm no good with soft pastels but I love oil pastels. When we get back together at Thursday art class we can discuss big time.
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Well, I've just completed Week 1 of my Cardiff Uni course - 20% of the whole thing. Interesting, accessible, informative. Worth a go if you're so inclined.
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16th April 2014
Late again - I'll try not to make a habit of it. Blame Jose this morning - she came for an hour and before we knew it we'd gossiped away two hours - as you do. I'm still doing the purple jumper but only during evening telly-watching time. I've had an hour with Cardiff University first thing - so much to take in I'm doubtful my aged brain is up to it. Ann is still with her Forensic Science course and will be starting the Fiction Writing very soon. I think these taster courses are very well planned and there's lots of little videos (mini lectures I guess) so it doesn't feel too pie-in-the-sky. (info at Future Learn on the links page).
Made a quick dash to the Co-op, called into Knit-n-Stitch (Codsall) for some thread and then home again to contemplate tonight's supper. Hope that doesn't sound like we're eating thread.
Late again - I'll try not to make a habit of it. Blame Jose this morning - she came for an hour and before we knew it we'd gossiped away two hours - as you do. I'm still doing the purple jumper but only during evening telly-watching time. I've had an hour with Cardiff University first thing - so much to take in I'm doubtful my aged brain is up to it. Ann is still with her Forensic Science course and will be starting the Fiction Writing very soon. I think these taster courses are very well planned and there's lots of little videos (mini lectures I guess) so it doesn't feel too pie-in-the-sky. (info at Future Learn on the links page).
Made a quick dash to the Co-op, called into Knit-n-Stitch (Codsall) for some thread and then home again to contemplate tonight's supper. Hope that doesn't sound like we're eating thread.
15th April 2014
What a lovely morning - the birds are busy, they're dashing around with beaks full of building materials. There was much coverage of the anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster on this morning's TV news. It's also the anniversary of the Titanic going down today - it was 11.40pm on the 14th when it collided with an iceberg and shortly after midnight when it sank with over 1,500 lives lost. |
News from Ian and Jenny - they're attending Jenny's brother's wedding in Devon. A spiteful seagull singled out Ian as a suitable target for a particularly nasty splat. They managed to clean up his best suit as most of it landed on Ian who had to dash off for an unscheduled shower. Disgruntling to say the least, but nevertheless hilarious (well to this family anyway). These things are only funny when they happen to someone else - I wonder why. I sent him a text asking for a blog photo but he insisted photographs were taken after the clean-up. Unless of course someone just happened to whip out their phone camera ??? Please...
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My friend Ann was working In Liverpool as a community midwife at the time of the Hillsborough stadium collapse - she was based at local surgery and had to deal with many traumatised and bereaved patients. A sad and unforgettable experience.
14th April 2014
Profuse and abject apologies for arriving here so late today. For one reason and another I was side-tracked. Firstly by my on-line study course - Community Journalism - first day today with lots of bits and pieces to read and I had to learn to navigate the website. It's all free - have a look at the Links page and click on the Future Learn icon. For all my writer friends, there's a course on Fiction Writing which might interest you.
Carol rang - she and Gary are taking a week's holiday to get on with their decorating (jolly holiday for them then). She said Jon had a mishap on Saturday - he was in Halesowen to do a plumbing job, called for some petrol and the key broke off in his ignition. (more fun time sorting that one out).
Profuse and abject apologies for arriving here so late today. For one reason and another I was side-tracked. Firstly by my on-line study course - Community Journalism - first day today with lots of bits and pieces to read and I had to learn to navigate the website. It's all free - have a look at the Links page and click on the Future Learn icon. For all my writer friends, there's a course on Fiction Writing which might interest you.
Carol rang - she and Gary are taking a week's holiday to get on with their decorating (jolly holiday for them then). She said Jon had a mishap on Saturday - he was in Halesowen to do a plumbing job, called for some petrol and the key broke off in his ignition. (more fun time sorting that one out).
Then Bern suggested a trip to Ashwood Garden Centre - their "to die for" cake crept into my head so I didn't hesitate. We looked round for something big and leafy to fill a gap in the border where we're aiming for a jungle look and came home with a trifid named rheum. I've looked it up on the Internet to find there are over sixty varieties of this plant - all very nice but they look like rhubarb to me. Anyway, it's now tucked up and watered in the border and I hope it will be very happy. We split a hosta clump rather than buy new ones - it took ages as they were well entrenched in their pot but there's the satisfaction of filling another pot for free. Not sure if this is the right time of year to disturb them - but, hey ho. I bought some giant sunflower seeds too - so I'll have to get those on the go soon.
Almost forgot to tell you, Maggie has left us a message: following yesterday's riveting post about washing, she said she does her general wash on Mondays, irons it on Tuesdays and the bedclothes get done on Fridays when she cleans the bedrooms. Towels are saved for a Sunday wash. Well Mags - the washing angel is with you today - it's been a good drying day. (Second thoughts - maybe she's posh and doesn't peg). There's something to be said for being a creature of habit - things always get done, and writers' group members will vouch for Maggie's efficient organisational skills.
Almost forgot to tell you, Maggie has left us a message: following yesterday's riveting post about washing, she said she does her general wash on Mondays, irons it on Tuesdays and the bedclothes get done on Fridays when she cleans the bedrooms. Towels are saved for a Sunday wash. Well Mags - the washing angel is with you today - it's been a good drying day. (Second thoughts - maybe she's posh and doesn't peg). There's something to be said for being a creature of habit - things always get done, and writers' group members will vouch for Maggie's efficient organisational skills.
13th April 2014
Bern's tootled off to visit his Mum and I've just pegged the washing. I remember when pegging washing on a Sunday was almost a mortal sin. When I was small, hail rain or shine, people always did their washing on a Monday. I wonder what that was all about. Mind you it was hard work, maybe that's why they confined to one day and got it out of the way. I remember having to hold the end the blankets as they came out of the mangle - they only got done on high days and holidays because of getting them dry. My mother used to put ammonia in the rinsing water to make them soft - phew! the smell of it took your breath away. I reckon you could have annihilated your kids if you weren't careful with a few whiffs of ammonia. I wonder if anyone still buys ammonia and those funny little blocks of blue stuff that made the whites look whiter. Do you remember Robin starch? That was another messy business involving mixing up gloopy stuff to dip the shirt collars in and whatever else needed to be stiff and white. Yes, I can see now why they didn't wash on Sundays - there wouldn't have been time to chop the mint, mix the batter for Yorkshire pudding, etc. etc. if they'd taken time to do a bit of washing.
Back again: I've just been Googling and discovered that in some private housing estates there are rules about pegging washing on a Sunday - it is well and truly frowned upon and considered 'common'. Now what can I say to that? Horror of horrors - I'm 'common'. Oh for goodness sake - I've pegged it in the back garden where only nosy people peering from their upstairs windows can see it. I think I'll get a tea-towel printed with "Get a Life" and peg it out on Sundays. The message would be as much for me as for onlookers - who in their right mind would prattle a two paragraph spiel on the subject of washing?
That expression, 'common', was often used when I was younger. It was 'common' to go outside with your hair rollers in. One didn't go to town without tights or stockings - bare legs were 'common'. And there was a bit of a thing going on about headscarves versus a proper hat. People were so 'buttoned up' back then and slaves to convention. I think headscarves began to get a better press after the Queen was spotted wearing one while mooching round her stables on a wet day. Come to think of it, do women still wear headscarves, the big square ones that you folded in half to make a triangle, I can't recall seeing anyone wearing one lately?
Bern's tootled off to visit his Mum and I've just pegged the washing. I remember when pegging washing on a Sunday was almost a mortal sin. When I was small, hail rain or shine, people always did their washing on a Monday. I wonder what that was all about. Mind you it was hard work, maybe that's why they confined to one day and got it out of the way. I remember having to hold the end the blankets as they came out of the mangle - they only got done on high days and holidays because of getting them dry. My mother used to put ammonia in the rinsing water to make them soft - phew! the smell of it took your breath away. I reckon you could have annihilated your kids if you weren't careful with a few whiffs of ammonia. I wonder if anyone still buys ammonia and those funny little blocks of blue stuff that made the whites look whiter. Do you remember Robin starch? That was another messy business involving mixing up gloopy stuff to dip the shirt collars in and whatever else needed to be stiff and white. Yes, I can see now why they didn't wash on Sundays - there wouldn't have been time to chop the mint, mix the batter for Yorkshire pudding, etc. etc. if they'd taken time to do a bit of washing.
Back again: I've just been Googling and discovered that in some private housing estates there are rules about pegging washing on a Sunday - it is well and truly frowned upon and considered 'common'. Now what can I say to that? Horror of horrors - I'm 'common'. Oh for goodness sake - I've pegged it in the back garden where only nosy people peering from their upstairs windows can see it. I think I'll get a tea-towel printed with "Get a Life" and peg it out on Sundays. The message would be as much for me as for onlookers - who in their right mind would prattle a two paragraph spiel on the subject of washing?
That expression, 'common', was often used when I was younger. It was 'common' to go outside with your hair rollers in. One didn't go to town without tights or stockings - bare legs were 'common'. And there was a bit of a thing going on about headscarves versus a proper hat. People were so 'buttoned up' back then and slaves to convention. I think headscarves began to get a better press after the Queen was spotted wearing one while mooching round her stables on a wet day. Come to think of it, do women still wear headscarves, the big square ones that you folded in half to make a triangle, I can't recall seeing anyone wearing one lately?
12th April 2014
The ubiquitous "they" of the green-fingered variety reckon it's time to plant, potatoes, carrots and peas: oh, and it's also time to start your begonias - something to keep us all busy throughout the weekend. Maybe I'll pass on that activity, we don't have a veg patch and I don't have any begonias to kickstart. Those snippets of info arrived in an e-mail from the garden centre because I have one of those "join our club" cards that allows discount to oldies on Tuesdays - some sort of convoluted arrangement anyway.
The ubiquitous "they" of the green-fingered variety reckon it's time to plant, potatoes, carrots and peas: oh, and it's also time to start your begonias - something to keep us all busy throughout the weekend. Maybe I'll pass on that activity, we don't have a veg patch and I don't have any begonias to kickstart. Those snippets of info arrived in an e-mail from the garden centre because I have one of those "join our club" cards that allows discount to oldies on Tuesdays - some sort of convoluted arrangement anyway.
We've consulted Amazon and ordered some adhesive copper tape which arrived this morning. I read that it prevents slugs and snails from attacking plants in pots. We have three large pots containing hostas so this year I'm waging war before they get going. The science of it is that on contact with copper, slug and snail slime creates an electrical charge - the poor molluscs get a shock if they try to cross it. Apparently they don't cross it - so how do they know it's a danger zone? I've never thought to credit them with brain power. In the past I've had various ways of dealing with the little varmints. Sometimes I pick them off the plants (ugh!) and suffocate them in a plastic bag which goes in the bin. Then I worry that I've deprived the birds of their breakfast. If I'm feeling kinder I pick them up and sling them over next door which gives them a fighting chance of survival. And, if they've really shredded my hostas to bits, I drop them on the floor and jump on them. My belief that everything has a place in the ecological system is on a sliding scale calibrated by the state of our hostas.
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Oh dear, that's just reminded me of another little snail story. When Andy and Ian were small I used to offer a prize to who could collect the most snails from my garden. One day they decided to take their snails home with them and, as it happened, on the way home someone spilled their bag of snails in their Mum's car. Carol wasn't too pleased the following day to find snails crawling up the inside window of her car - thing is, I got the blame.
I'm still battling with the purple knitting - I can see I've made the occasional cock-up in the pattern but as my Mum used to say, "a blind man would be pleased to see them." I'll explain that my cardigan is idiosyncratic rather than technically perfect - or perhaps I can say the deviations are for special effect so people will think they're deliberate.
I stood by the magazine rack in Waitrose this morning indulging in a free read. I looked up, and lo and behold the chap standing next to me also indulging in a free read was Jay. Then Lesley appeared - we were on our way out and they had just come in. We went home to put the kettle on and they followed us an hour later - it was bacon butties all round followed with by pre-Easter hot-cross buns supplied by Les.
I stood by the magazine rack in Waitrose this morning indulging in a free read. I looked up, and lo and behold the chap standing next to me also indulging in a free read was Jay. Then Lesley appeared - we were on our way out and they had just come in. We went home to put the kettle on and they followed us an hour later - it was bacon butties all round followed with by pre-Easter hot-cross buns supplied by Les.
It's the anniversary of the first man in space - the USSR and USA had a space race thing going to send the first human being into space. It was accomplished by Yuri Gagarin 12th April 1961. He orbited Earth for 108 minutes in the spacecraft Vostok. He died a few years later, aged 34, when his aeroplane crashed on a training flight.
11th April 2014
11th April 1930-something was my Mum and Dad's wedding anniversary - she always related how it snowed on their wedding day, so it looks like we're doing OK weather-wise this spring. Only one more week to go and we'll be eating hot-cross-buns. I'll go outside in a minute and dead-head the daffs - I'll tear off their grizzled trumpets and tell them "see you next year." The big pot of tulips I planted has been lovely but that's over too - all decapitated and waiting for summer flowering replacements.
11th April 1930-something was my Mum and Dad's wedding anniversary - she always related how it snowed on their wedding day, so it looks like we're doing OK weather-wise this spring. Only one more week to go and we'll be eating hot-cross-buns. I'll go outside in a minute and dead-head the daffs - I'll tear off their grizzled trumpets and tell them "see you next year." The big pot of tulips I planted has been lovely but that's over too - all decapitated and waiting for summer flowering replacements.
10th April 2014
Just off to art class - back later. I've abandoned last week's effort, it was rubbish - we'll see what transpires in this morning's session. I made a modicum of progress with the purple knitting - enlarging the text helped and it's now back on track - whether it will ever be wearable remains a mystery for now.
Another Thursday morning bereft of a masterpiece... I did some pen and wash but it's too mediocre to mention. We have the next two weeks off so perhaps I'll muster up momentum for the summer term.
Just off to art class - back later. I've abandoned last week's effort, it was rubbish - we'll see what transpires in this morning's session. I made a modicum of progress with the purple knitting - enlarging the text helped and it's now back on track - whether it will ever be wearable remains a mystery for now.
Another Thursday morning bereft of a masterpiece... I did some pen and wash but it's too mediocre to mention. We have the next two weeks off so perhaps I'll muster up momentum for the summer term.
Happy Birthday to Big Ben - the bell was cast on 10th April 1858 in the Whitechapel Bell Foundry. A massive bell was required and the first attempt (made by John Warner & Sons at Stockton-on-Tees) cracked irreparably. The metal was melted down and recast in Whitechapel. Big Ben first rang across Westminster on 31 May 1859. A short time later, in September 1859, the replacement (Big Ben) cracked. A lighter hammer was fitted and the bell rotated to present an undamaged section to the hammer. This is the bell as we hear it today. Big Ben's chimes were first broadcast on 31st December 1923, a tradition which continues.
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9th April 2014
First thing I did this morning was unravel a few rows of my purple knitting - getting ratty time has arrived. I haven't hurled it at the wall yet, but time is getting nigh. Can't decide whether to concede graciously and unwind the lot or dig my heels in and have another go at the risk of boring myself to death. It's the tricky pattern that's getting the better of me. One solution might be to blow up the pattern (enlarge it I mean, not blast it into orbit) so I can follow it more easily. Bern is so fed of me huffing and puffing with impatience that he's offered to read the pattern aloud as I knit. It's hilarious to hear someone read a knitting pattern aloud when they don't know what the abbreviations mean, imagine a non-knitter trying to pronounce this lot ..... alt beg CN cm dec DK foll g in inc k mm patt psso p2sso rem rep rs s1 sl2 m1 m1p M3 MB Cr2L Cr2LB Cr2RB yfwd p2tog st m1p - has you in stitches doesn't it?
First thing I did this morning was unravel a few rows of my purple knitting - getting ratty time has arrived. I haven't hurled it at the wall yet, but time is getting nigh. Can't decide whether to concede graciously and unwind the lot or dig my heels in and have another go at the risk of boring myself to death. It's the tricky pattern that's getting the better of me. One solution might be to blow up the pattern (enlarge it I mean, not blast it into orbit) so I can follow it more easily. Bern is so fed of me huffing and puffing with impatience that he's offered to read the pattern aloud as I knit. It's hilarious to hear someone read a knitting pattern aloud when they don't know what the abbreviations mean, imagine a non-knitter trying to pronounce this lot ..... alt beg CN cm dec DK foll g in inc k mm patt psso p2sso rem rep rs s1 sl2 m1 m1p M3 MB Cr2L Cr2LB Cr2RB yfwd p2tog st m1p - has you in stitches doesn't it?
Soapbox moment coming up: Did you read about that little 500 year old Ming cup? It's only 3.1 inches diameter and it recently sold for £21.5M - I just don't get it. I know it's old, rare, Ming, and all the rest of it, but I still don't get it. We have homeless, hungry people all over the world and someone spends that amount on a three inch cup too valuable to use. I don't think I'll ever "get it". All you can do with it is look at it so a photograph would do for me.
Haven't a thing to tell you, at this moment inspiration eludes me, I'm also shame-faced about not having done my writers' group homework. This week's exercise is to choose a colour as a starting point for a piece of work. Maybe it's the joys of being bogged down with colds and snuffles that's keeping the Muse at bay.
I've just had a quick turn round the garden to see what else may have woken up: I didn't linger long, a chilly breeze hustled me back indoors, but I did glimpse new leaves appearing on the silver birch.
*$x%^!"+#?>*^&$!!! (interpret to your desired level of bad language)
I've just pegged out the whites and they're pink! Then I found a guilty sock lurking in the machine from a previous wash so I strangled it into oblivion... and the postman's left the gate open... is this about to become "one of those days?"
Aaaargh - the penny has dropped - this is judgement on me for not having written a piece about colour - I can now write about pink but it would be unrepeatable.
We had a good meeting - only 8 of us today as some were having an early Easter holiday. Ryan turned up with video equipment, complete with big fluffy sound thing that gets held in the air. We were asked to comment on Ken Livingstone - it was for part of Ryan's university journalism course - we did our best but I wonder what his tutor and classmates will make of the bunch of old dears he interviewed - all will be revealed when he does his presentation.
I've just pegged out the whites and they're pink! Then I found a guilty sock lurking in the machine from a previous wash so I strangled it into oblivion... and the postman's left the gate open... is this about to become "one of those days?"
Aaaargh - the penny has dropped - this is judgement on me for not having written a piece about colour - I can now write about pink but it would be unrepeatable.
We had a good meeting - only 8 of us today as some were having an early Easter holiday. Ryan turned up with video equipment, complete with big fluffy sound thing that gets held in the air. We were asked to comment on Ken Livingstone - it was for part of Ryan's university journalism course - we did our best but I wonder what his tutor and classmates will make of the bunch of old dears he interviewed - all will be revealed when he does his presentation.
7th April 2014
Poorliness abounds - Bern has caught Jay's man-flu. Hope they don't sneeze it around too generously. I've just responded to Carol's drive-to-work phone call, she and Gary spent the weekend stripping wallpaper (glad it was the previous weekend we visited). Andy is still off work with the post-op knee but champing at the bit and getting furious when anyone tries to broach the subject of "life without playing football". I'm afraid he's more of a doer than a spectator.
An iota of trivia: 7th April 1795, France went metric - I wonder why we waited until 1971 to catch up - might come in useful if you're into pub quizzes.
I've had an e-mail this morning from Future Learn - it's to gear me up ready for my 14th April start on the mini-course I mentioned. My age of enlightenment is nigh - Cardiff University here I come (virtually).
Poorliness abounds - Bern has caught Jay's man-flu. Hope they don't sneeze it around too generously. I've just responded to Carol's drive-to-work phone call, she and Gary spent the weekend stripping wallpaper (glad it was the previous weekend we visited). Andy is still off work with the post-op knee but champing at the bit and getting furious when anyone tries to broach the subject of "life without playing football". I'm afraid he's more of a doer than a spectator.
An iota of trivia: 7th April 1795, France went metric - I wonder why we waited until 1971 to catch up - might come in useful if you're into pub quizzes.
I've had an e-mail this morning from Future Learn - it's to gear me up ready for my 14th April start on the mini-course I mentioned. My age of enlightenment is nigh - Cardiff University here I come (virtually).
6th April 2014
A sombre thought to start the day - it's the first day of the fiscal year, the beginning of tax matters and all things monetary for 2014-15. The good news is that Wolves won and are still top of their league and it's beginning to look hopeful for them to go back into the Championship league.
I see the pigeons (or something swan size and feathered) has decorated the porch windows - the lovely job of de-pooing the glass awaits me now. Guess what - Bern's spotted it too and has asked for a cloth. I'll not deny him the privilege.
Hang on, Bern's yelling for me to make an executive decision - he wants to know where to deposit the rest of the horse manure... (answers on a postcard please). Back later.
I've just consulted the Radio Times - I see "Off Their Rockers" returns tonight. Yeah, I know, it's puerile schoolboy humour but it has me rolling in the aisle which says a lot about my intellect - sorry if you're disillusioned about me. (7.30 ITV) We'll have to record "Country File" this week - I do watch sensible programmes too.
A sombre thought to start the day - it's the first day of the fiscal year, the beginning of tax matters and all things monetary for 2014-15. The good news is that Wolves won and are still top of their league and it's beginning to look hopeful for them to go back into the Championship league.
I see the pigeons (or something swan size and feathered) has decorated the porch windows - the lovely job of de-pooing the glass awaits me now. Guess what - Bern's spotted it too and has asked for a cloth. I'll not deny him the privilege.
Hang on, Bern's yelling for me to make an executive decision - he wants to know where to deposit the rest of the horse manure... (answers on a postcard please). Back later.
I've just consulted the Radio Times - I see "Off Their Rockers" returns tonight. Yeah, I know, it's puerile schoolboy humour but it has me rolling in the aisle which says a lot about my intellect - sorry if you're disillusioned about me. (7.30 ITV) We'll have to record "Country File" this week - I do watch sensible programmes too.
5th April 2014
Bern has gone out early today to deliver radiators to Jonathan (no 3 grandson aka Jon) who was fitting a central heating system in Halesowen. Washing's on, upstairs vacuuming done, aren't weekends fun? Now what? "Vacuum downstairs!" I hear you cry. Sorry... boring, if I hang on Bern will offer to do it later. I'll delve into my new Mary Berry Book and make a cake.
Later on: today's happenings are still registering 'mundane' on the excitement scale, and I haven't made that cake yet. We've done the usual supermarket trolley trundle which is not worth a mention except the exorbitant amount on the till receipt. While we were out we called on James and Lesley - they had an electrician doing things to sockets and their other bit of news is that one of their cats has cancer. Poor thing looked horrendous with her fur shaved off on one side to enable a scan. The Vet thinks she is too old to undergo an operation - medication and a scan came to a nicely rounded figure of £300. Jay was in the middle of a brand new head-cold so we left him to hole-up for the rest of the weekend.
We get lots of goldfinches and I hate to disappoint them so we called at the garden centre to get their food supply. Surprise, surprise, in front of us at the till queue was my cousin, Janet Harvey. More chat time and exchange of family happenings. We were outside by this time and then the heavens opened (well it is April) and we had to curtail our conversation until our next serendipitous meeting.
Do you remember I mentioned (27th March) Future Learn (free on-line mini courses). Mine doesn't start until 14th April but I've had an e-mail from Ann who is underway with Writing Fiction and has graduated from week one. She says she's enjoying it and there's plenty of contact with lecturer and other students. It all happens online - I'm looking forward to starting mine (Community Journalism). Courses are delivered by various universities but the scheme is owned by Open University. (http://www.futurelearn.com/)
Bern has gone out early today to deliver radiators to Jonathan (no 3 grandson aka Jon) who was fitting a central heating system in Halesowen. Washing's on, upstairs vacuuming done, aren't weekends fun? Now what? "Vacuum downstairs!" I hear you cry. Sorry... boring, if I hang on Bern will offer to do it later. I'll delve into my new Mary Berry Book and make a cake.
Later on: today's happenings are still registering 'mundane' on the excitement scale, and I haven't made that cake yet. We've done the usual supermarket trolley trundle which is not worth a mention except the exorbitant amount on the till receipt. While we were out we called on James and Lesley - they had an electrician doing things to sockets and their other bit of news is that one of their cats has cancer. Poor thing looked horrendous with her fur shaved off on one side to enable a scan. The Vet thinks she is too old to undergo an operation - medication and a scan came to a nicely rounded figure of £300. Jay was in the middle of a brand new head-cold so we left him to hole-up for the rest of the weekend.
We get lots of goldfinches and I hate to disappoint them so we called at the garden centre to get their food supply. Surprise, surprise, in front of us at the till queue was my cousin, Janet Harvey. More chat time and exchange of family happenings. We were outside by this time and then the heavens opened (well it is April) and we had to curtail our conversation until our next serendipitous meeting.
Do you remember I mentioned (27th March) Future Learn (free on-line mini courses). Mine doesn't start until 14th April but I've had an e-mail from Ann who is underway with Writing Fiction and has graduated from week one. She says she's enjoying it and there's plenty of contact with lecturer and other students. It all happens online - I'm looking forward to starting mine (Community Journalism). Courses are delivered by various universities but the scheme is owned by Open University. (http://www.futurelearn.com/)
4th April 2014
I've just watched a video of Sentinel-1a being launched, powering it's way to escape Earth's gravitational pull. They've put it up there to keep a constant health check on our globe and report on volcanic activity, ice-melt, etc., and to warn the world of potential natural disasters. It does have me wondering as technology develops if our little CCTV systems will soon be old hat and everyone of us will be monitored from space - no one will be able to cough, sneeze nor whatsit without a satellite somewhere knowing about it and maybe recording the event for posterity. In another 500 years time will someone be able to do playback and laugh their socks off, considering our way of life to be primitive? Maybe not, they probably won't have socks in 500 years time.
I've also just read about the creature that's been born in Ireland - a cross between a sheep and a goat. Is it a geep? Is it a shoat? I always feel there's a dark side to these cross-breed things - it reminds of Minotaurs and Centaurs and gruesome mythological beasts.
I started some new knitting yesterday evening - it's a short sleeved bolero thing - my yarn is purple. Sounds a bit lurid but if it turns out OK I'll show you a picture. The cat-sick green jumper (equally lurid) from a couple of months ago has been worn, washed, and falls into the "all right" category.
I've just watched a video of Sentinel-1a being launched, powering it's way to escape Earth's gravitational pull. They've put it up there to keep a constant health check on our globe and report on volcanic activity, ice-melt, etc., and to warn the world of potential natural disasters. It does have me wondering as technology develops if our little CCTV systems will soon be old hat and everyone of us will be monitored from space - no one will be able to cough, sneeze nor whatsit without a satellite somewhere knowing about it and maybe recording the event for posterity. In another 500 years time will someone be able to do playback and laugh their socks off, considering our way of life to be primitive? Maybe not, they probably won't have socks in 500 years time.
I've also just read about the creature that's been born in Ireland - a cross between a sheep and a goat. Is it a geep? Is it a shoat? I always feel there's a dark side to these cross-breed things - it reminds of Minotaurs and Centaurs and gruesome mythological beasts.
I started some new knitting yesterday evening - it's a short sleeved bolero thing - my yarn is purple. Sounds a bit lurid but if it turns out OK I'll show you a picture. The cat-sick green jumper (equally lurid) from a couple of months ago has been worn, washed, and falls into the "all right" category.
3rd April 2014
I wonder what today will bring. It's brought me a mad dash this morning - on the way to art class I have to deliver a birthday card to Barbara, change my hair appointment, then pick Doreen up from Church Road. Consequently I'm shovelling Shredded Wheat and slurping tea as I type. My breakfast regime is predictable and set in stone - the bales of hay (aka Shredded Wheat) on week mornings because it's low fat - if I feel rebellious I have toast and marmalade instead. Weekends, it's porridge with runny honey. Hope someone has the guts (operative word) to enjoy a Full English. Sorry I didn't get back to you yesterday, I became involved in my Scrabble games on Facebook. I play with Jan (writers' group) we have several games on the go. I also have a few games going with Cheryl from Bedfordshire (we've only met on a virtual Scrabble board) but we've been playing for ages. She looks very nice and smiley on the little picture on my screen. And then there's Sam and Tony - haven't a clue where they live or which country but it's all good fun. Must go now - the clock's ticking.
Art lesson: I did rubbish work today - one for the bin. When I came out I noticed a Saharan sand dune had landed on my car - I felt more Bedouin than Betty. Talking of names, the family have given me a new nickname - it's Worzel, as in Worzel Gummidge. They reckon I make farmer-like noises of ooh-aar ooh-aar when I'm trying to coerce my achey back and legs into action.
I wonder what today will bring. It's brought me a mad dash this morning - on the way to art class I have to deliver a birthday card to Barbara, change my hair appointment, then pick Doreen up from Church Road. Consequently I'm shovelling Shredded Wheat and slurping tea as I type. My breakfast regime is predictable and set in stone - the bales of hay (aka Shredded Wheat) on week mornings because it's low fat - if I feel rebellious I have toast and marmalade instead. Weekends, it's porridge with runny honey. Hope someone has the guts (operative word) to enjoy a Full English. Sorry I didn't get back to you yesterday, I became involved in my Scrabble games on Facebook. I play with Jan (writers' group) we have several games on the go. I also have a few games going with Cheryl from Bedfordshire (we've only met on a virtual Scrabble board) but we've been playing for ages. She looks very nice and smiley on the little picture on my screen. And then there's Sam and Tony - haven't a clue where they live or which country but it's all good fun. Must go now - the clock's ticking.
Art lesson: I did rubbish work today - one for the bin. When I came out I noticed a Saharan sand dune had landed on my car - I felt more Bedouin than Betty. Talking of names, the family have given me a new nickname - it's Worzel, as in Worzel Gummidge. They reckon I make farmer-like noises of ooh-aar ooh-aar when I'm trying to coerce my achey back and legs into action.
2nd April 2014
This bad quality air is a bit of a to do - a combination of desert dust and pollution from Europe - I'll not be sending a thank you note to our continental neighbours. Where will it all end? Just now they're advising the vulnerable to stay indoors. We'll be wearing smog masks next to venture out, will the day come when we all move round in plastic bubbles or even have to carry oxygen cylinders on our backs dressed like deep sea divers? It's not beyond the realms of credibility. Not that I'm over-reacting or anything... let's hope it dissipates very soon. Then I think back to my school science lessons - "matter cannot be destroyed" - so does that mean all the nasty stuff will lurk somewhere forever? What is the human race doing to the planet and the universe? Soap box moment over, but a pessimistic wisp of worry cloud hovers...
I've only just remembered to turn my Welsh calendar page to Ebrill - it tells me today is Dydd Mercher Ebrill 2. I'll have to wait for Rene to tell me how to pronounce it. The picture is of little Welsh lambs skipping in the sunshine - I'm glad they don't know what's in store for them. It's a cruel world - talk about dog eat dog: or in this case, man eat lamb - if I dwell on it too long I'll be compelled to consider vegetarianism.
This bad quality air is a bit of a to do - a combination of desert dust and pollution from Europe - I'll not be sending a thank you note to our continental neighbours. Where will it all end? Just now they're advising the vulnerable to stay indoors. We'll be wearing smog masks next to venture out, will the day come when we all move round in plastic bubbles or even have to carry oxygen cylinders on our backs dressed like deep sea divers? It's not beyond the realms of credibility. Not that I'm over-reacting or anything... let's hope it dissipates very soon. Then I think back to my school science lessons - "matter cannot be destroyed" - so does that mean all the nasty stuff will lurk somewhere forever? What is the human race doing to the planet and the universe? Soap box moment over, but a pessimistic wisp of worry cloud hovers...
I've only just remembered to turn my Welsh calendar page to Ebrill - it tells me today is Dydd Mercher Ebrill 2. I'll have to wait for Rene to tell me how to pronounce it. The picture is of little Welsh lambs skipping in the sunshine - I'm glad they don't know what's in store for them. It's a cruel world - talk about dog eat dog: or in this case, man eat lamb - if I dwell on it too long I'll be compelled to consider vegetarianism.
1st April 2014
If you're rushing round playing pranks, have fun. If you get caught out, commiserations, but laugh anyway. And no, I haven't cling-filmed the toilet. Years ago I would have found that one very funny - it's not so laughable now, I don't do germs. I thought of announcing that I'd won a few £million on the lottery, then I thought the begging letters might not get here before 12.00 so the joke would be on me. The BBC News people dragged out the old spaghetti tree story this morning. I remember them doing that - it was back in the 1957 when pasta seemed like an exotic food to Post-War Britain. We were so unworldly then and the only people who had travrelled abroad were service personnel and the very rich. Ian's left a lovely message for us: (no 1 grandson and no 1 blog fan) he says he astounded his colleagues in the school staffroom, especially the art department, when he spilled a few facts about Van Gogh after reading my Sunday blog post. Hope his colleagues don't read this, or I may have seriously damaged his street cred. |
I've been out to inspect the little trees we planted last year - a columnar larch and a pink flowering hawthorn - both have buds about to burst. I suspect the neighbours think I'm having another mad-woman moment if they see me peering closely at bare twigs on spindly little trees.
31st March 2014
Looks like I might be in for another glued-to-the-computer day as I squeeze blood from a stone to produce tomorrow's writers' group homework. Topic is: write about doing something quite ridiculous. As we have to read it on 1st April it suits the day. I've updated the writers' site to include the summer term programme, which reminded me of the fact that time moves swiftly on. (I think I've just done a split infinitive, sorry). Right, off to do battle with my piece for tomorrow - back later.
Mission accomplished - homework done, eventually. I was constantly interrupted by a spate of phone calls trying to sell energy, alarm systems, etc., culminating in the caller and me being rude to each other. I see it's started raining - all set for April then. I'm thinking of going to bed without my hottie bottle tonight - a brave move I know, but I woke up a bit overheated this morning.
When we were at Carol's yesterday we got to sample a delicious coconut tray-bake that she'd made. (I don't know why, but the word tray-bake sends Carol and me into fits of giggles - it sounds so American mumsie and silly frilly pinny). Anyway, it was a coconut tray-bake. She's texted me the recipe today and I've just written it down. I'll try it out and post it on the Recipe Page.
I can't help wondering, has anyone acquired a Baby Oleg toy yet? And have you seen those little grey kittens crawling out of the McVitie's Digestive packet? Very much "aaaaaaaah" moments.
Looks like I might be in for another glued-to-the-computer day as I squeeze blood from a stone to produce tomorrow's writers' group homework. Topic is: write about doing something quite ridiculous. As we have to read it on 1st April it suits the day. I've updated the writers' site to include the summer term programme, which reminded me of the fact that time moves swiftly on. (I think I've just done a split infinitive, sorry). Right, off to do battle with my piece for tomorrow - back later.
Mission accomplished - homework done, eventually. I was constantly interrupted by a spate of phone calls trying to sell energy, alarm systems, etc., culminating in the caller and me being rude to each other. I see it's started raining - all set for April then. I'm thinking of going to bed without my hottie bottle tonight - a brave move I know, but I woke up a bit overheated this morning.
When we were at Carol's yesterday we got to sample a delicious coconut tray-bake that she'd made. (I don't know why, but the word tray-bake sends Carol and me into fits of giggles - it sounds so American mumsie and silly frilly pinny). Anyway, it was a coconut tray-bake. She's texted me the recipe today and I've just written it down. I'll try it out and post it on the Recipe Page.
I can't help wondering, has anyone acquired a Baby Oleg toy yet? And have you seen those little grey kittens crawling out of the McVitie's Digestive packet? Very much "aaaaaaaah" moments.
30th March 2014
Happy Mothers' Day. Now for a little gripe: why do they make hair conditioner and shampoo bottles to look like a matching set? I've just conditioned my hair and then washed it all out with shampoo. I can't tell the flipping difference when I'm in the shower without specs. Anyone suffering from the loss of an hour's sleep? I tend to wonder why we bother with the business of clock changing these days. Rather than mess about with the clocks and all the gadgets and machines that tell us the time, why not just change school times, workplace times, etc. Each establishment could arrange things to suit their business. I now have to do battle with my Gran's old clock - it struggles at the best of times to chime in the right place - I think I've mentioned before that it's getting a bit senile and the hour is going to throw it right out of kilter.
8.00pm and we're just back from Shrewsbury in the daylight - we had a lovely meal with Carol, Gary and Jon. I like the ride, it's nice to catch sight of the Wrekin as we whiz down the M54.
Happy Mothers' Day. Now for a little gripe: why do they make hair conditioner and shampoo bottles to look like a matching set? I've just conditioned my hair and then washed it all out with shampoo. I can't tell the flipping difference when I'm in the shower without specs. Anyone suffering from the loss of an hour's sleep? I tend to wonder why we bother with the business of clock changing these days. Rather than mess about with the clocks and all the gadgets and machines that tell us the time, why not just change school times, workplace times, etc. Each establishment could arrange things to suit their business. I now have to do battle with my Gran's old clock - it struggles at the best of times to chime in the right place - I think I've mentioned before that it's getting a bit senile and the hour is going to throw it right out of kilter.
8.00pm and we're just back from Shrewsbury in the daylight - we had a lovely meal with Carol, Gary and Jon. I like the ride, it's nice to catch sight of the Wrekin as we whiz down the M54.
Happy Birthday Vincent. I've a real soft spot for Van Gogh (born 30th March 1853). Not everyone's cup of tea but one of my favourites. He was a tortured soul and it's purported that he only ever sold one painting in his lifetime, some he traded for art materials, which would then have been sold on. In a letter to his brother (October 1888) he wrote: "...I cannot help it if my paintings do not sell. The time will come when people will see that they are worth more than the price of the paint."
On 30th March 1987, the anniversary of his birth, Van Gogh's painting 'Sunflowers' was sold in London to a Japanese buyer for just under $40m (about £24,740,000). I find that such a sad story. If only he'd known how his work came to be appreciated he may have led a happier and longer life. He was only 37 when he committed suicide. |
29th March 2014
A weekend of stuff to remember - Mothers' Day tomorrow and clocks go forward tonight to take us into British Summer Time - hope we get some temperatures to match. Absolutely no news to relate - we've just done Sainsbury's and dried loads of washing this bright and breezy morning. We're invited to lunch at Carol and Gary's in Shrewsbury tomorrow - there'll be others there and I'm doing a cake this afternoon to take with us. Jay and Les are dashing down to Hampshire to see Lesley's folks - they did a visit here on Friday evening and brought some lovely flowers. We had another telling off about locking the back door - when Jay arrived Bern and I were both dozing on the sofa and he took an awful phone picture to prove to us that he'd walked in and we were unaware. NOTE TO OURSELVES: must lock the back door. We'll have to lock it if only to get him to remove the horrible picture from his phone - you don't expect policemen to go in for blackmail.
Well done Wolves - blokes are happy - they're still top of the list, I mean league.
A weekend of stuff to remember - Mothers' Day tomorrow and clocks go forward tonight to take us into British Summer Time - hope we get some temperatures to match. Absolutely no news to relate - we've just done Sainsbury's and dried loads of washing this bright and breezy morning. We're invited to lunch at Carol and Gary's in Shrewsbury tomorrow - there'll be others there and I'm doing a cake this afternoon to take with us. Jay and Les are dashing down to Hampshire to see Lesley's folks - they did a visit here on Friday evening and brought some lovely flowers. We had another telling off about locking the back door - when Jay arrived Bern and I were both dozing on the sofa and he took an awful phone picture to prove to us that he'd walked in and we were unaware. NOTE TO OURSELVES: must lock the back door. We'll have to lock it if only to get him to remove the horrible picture from his phone - you don't expect policemen to go in for blackmail.
Well done Wolves - blokes are happy - they're still top of the list, I mean league.
28th March 2014
I've just been into Facebook to catch up on my Scrabble games so while I was in there I had a nose round to see what everyone is up to. I saw this which made me laugh aloud (posted there by Jay) so I've pinched it. You can't beat a bit of political satire to create a smile. I haven't decided what to do with the rest of today, I'll pop back later if anything interesting transpires. Grrr... just noticed I'd used the dreaded 'pop' word again. Have you noticed how so many people say it so many times in so many contexts? The worst perpetrators are shop assistants and receptionists. "Just pop your signature here" and then they end it with "for me". I always want to scream, "it's not for YOU." "Take a seat for me." "Tick the box for me." You get the same treatment at the doctor's. "Pop your cardigan off." "Pop onto the couch." Then when you're shopping, "Shall I pop it in a bag for you?" Why don't they just say, "You're an old lady let me patronise you." I remember when pop was a fizzy drink. |
27th March 2014
Yesterday evening was interesting - Rene and I went to see Sir Andrew Motion - a Codsall Arts Festival event. When we got there we found Andie, Iris, and Jan (from writers' group) and Jane Seabourne (workshop tutor) and Toni from art class. I enjoyed the reading - he came over as a quiet chap - unstuffy, feet on the ground, and happy to chat with everyone. There was the usual book sale and signing queue afterwards. Andrew Motion has written a sequel to Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island" - entitled "Silver" and he mentioned that there is a follow up to that in the pipeline. So that's our dose of "literary" for this week.
No, sorry, you're not off the literary hook yet - another book mention. Our writers' group reading for the Easter break is to be "Life, Death & Vanilla Slices" by Jenny Éclair. Fascinating title - I've actually read this some time ago and loved it. We had the choice of Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar" or the Jenny Éclair one. I can't comment on "The Bell Jar" as I haven't read it - but I'm a bit put off because I can't understand her poetry which is probably a failing on my part rather than the writer's.
Yesterday evening was interesting - Rene and I went to see Sir Andrew Motion - a Codsall Arts Festival event. When we got there we found Andie, Iris, and Jan (from writers' group) and Jane Seabourne (workshop tutor) and Toni from art class. I enjoyed the reading - he came over as a quiet chap - unstuffy, feet on the ground, and happy to chat with everyone. There was the usual book sale and signing queue afterwards. Andrew Motion has written a sequel to Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island" - entitled "Silver" and he mentioned that there is a follow up to that in the pipeline. So that's our dose of "literary" for this week.
No, sorry, you're not off the literary hook yet - another book mention. Our writers' group reading for the Easter break is to be "Life, Death & Vanilla Slices" by Jenny Éclair. Fascinating title - I've actually read this some time ago and loved it. We had the choice of Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar" or the Jenny Éclair one. I can't comment on "The Bell Jar" as I haven't read it - but I'm a bit put off because I can't understand her poetry which is probably a failing on my part rather than the writer's.
If you've a hunger for knowledge, here's something to whet your appetite. In 1790 on 27th March a riveting event took place - the shoelace was invented providing an alternative to buckles as a means of fastening footwear. I wonder if the blokes are happy about that - or would they rather be sporting a big silver buckle on their footy boots and trainers?
And... wait for it... the little thing at the end of the shoelace to stop them fraying is called an aglet or aiglet. How did I get to the age of seventy-few without knowing that? |
Got through this morning's art class exercise - paint using only one colour. These are green peppers executed in red watercolour - all good fun - execution being the operative word with all that red. Sweet peppers are lovely to paint, lumpy, shiny, and colourful - then you take them home again to eat with your jacket potato, tuna and salad.
Hilary was in the middle of a significant birthday so we abandoned our mono-hued masterpieces to share a piggy moment with some fruit cake she'd brought. Happy Birthday Hilary and thanks for the lovely cake.
Hilary was in the middle of a significant birthday so we abandoned our mono-hued masterpieces to share a piggy moment with some fruit cake she'd brought. Happy Birthday Hilary and thanks for the lovely cake.
26th March 2014
Wendy (my sister) rang yesterday evening, they've finally got round to putting up a chicken coop - hen house - I'm unsure about the correct term. When we were kids my mother called ours the fowl pen - but in today's speak that sounds like you're alluding to a rubbish ballpoint. Anyway, 8 chickens are imminent in Caerphilly. It's been such a chilly week - I was glad when this morning's weather man said it's going to warm up for the weekend. Oh dear, I know that when I start prattling about the weather there is little of interest to discuss (other than world disasters, but let's not dwell on those.)
I have piles of poetry books, 50 - 60 I think, and one that sits on my desk is called Poem for the Day. To day it's a Lord Byron one. The book also gives information about the poets - it seems to me that the darling of society Lord Byron was a first class cad - a right bounder - or to be a tad colloquial, a one hundred per cent prize prat.
My book says: '...on this day in 1812, Annabella Milbanke, a reserved and serious woman, saw Byron for the first time and recorded her impressions of him. "His mouth continually betrays the acrimony of his spirit." His pride and passion inflamed by her snubs, Byron launched a calculated courtship, posing as the hell-raising rake who longed to reform. Once won round, Annabella quickly discovered that Byron's infatuation fell a long way short of love. Only hours after their wedding and still in the carriage which had brought them from the church, Byron taunted her. "Whatever induced you to marry me? What a dupe you have been to your imagination! How is it possible that a woman of your sense could form the wild hope of reforming me? It is enough for me that you are my wife for me to hate you! If you were the wife of any other man, I own you might have charm." Exactly twelve months later she arranged a legal separation. Byron fought the action unsuccessfully, furious that she should have chosen to leave him.' What a nasty piece of work he was.
I'm just pondering another dilemma: everyone's trousers have become slimmer (not the bodies in them just the trouser legs) and mine are all still wide-ish and so I feel old fashioned. Must get some narrower trousers and put my others in mothballs until we have to wear wide ones again. I'm bemused by the names of all the styles from tight-fitting leggings, to jeggings and treggings, slim leg etc. Who'd have thought there'd ever be such a wide spectrum of trouser leg widths. It's difficult to know which way to jump - a nod towards fashionable or risk being mutton-dressed-as-lamb. (Bring on the mint sauce).
Wendy (my sister) rang yesterday evening, they've finally got round to putting up a chicken coop - hen house - I'm unsure about the correct term. When we were kids my mother called ours the fowl pen - but in today's speak that sounds like you're alluding to a rubbish ballpoint. Anyway, 8 chickens are imminent in Caerphilly. It's been such a chilly week - I was glad when this morning's weather man said it's going to warm up for the weekend. Oh dear, I know that when I start prattling about the weather there is little of interest to discuss (other than world disasters, but let's not dwell on those.)
I have piles of poetry books, 50 - 60 I think, and one that sits on my desk is called Poem for the Day. To day it's a Lord Byron one. The book also gives information about the poets - it seems to me that the darling of society Lord Byron was a first class cad - a right bounder - or to be a tad colloquial, a one hundred per cent prize prat.
My book says: '...on this day in 1812, Annabella Milbanke, a reserved and serious woman, saw Byron for the first time and recorded her impressions of him. "His mouth continually betrays the acrimony of his spirit." His pride and passion inflamed by her snubs, Byron launched a calculated courtship, posing as the hell-raising rake who longed to reform. Once won round, Annabella quickly discovered that Byron's infatuation fell a long way short of love. Only hours after their wedding and still in the carriage which had brought them from the church, Byron taunted her. "Whatever induced you to marry me? What a dupe you have been to your imagination! How is it possible that a woman of your sense could form the wild hope of reforming me? It is enough for me that you are my wife for me to hate you! If you were the wife of any other man, I own you might have charm." Exactly twelve months later she arranged a legal separation. Byron fought the action unsuccessfully, furious that she should have chosen to leave him.' What a nasty piece of work he was.
I'm just pondering another dilemma: everyone's trousers have become slimmer (not the bodies in them just the trouser legs) and mine are all still wide-ish and so I feel old fashioned. Must get some narrower trousers and put my others in mothballs until we have to wear wide ones again. I'm bemused by the names of all the styles from tight-fitting leggings, to jeggings and treggings, slim leg etc. Who'd have thought there'd ever be such a wide spectrum of trouser leg widths. It's difficult to know which way to jump - a nod towards fashionable or risk being mutton-dressed-as-lamb. (Bring on the mint sauce).
25th March 2014
Feeling smug - I've managed to churn out my piece for today's writers' meeting. Not smug about it's quality but just for the fact that I managed it. Exercise is to write a piece beginning with "It was just for one night..." Ian (no. 1 grandson) has left us a message here to say (re- Sunday's discussion) that the group Franz Ferdinand did indeed name themselves after the Archduke who was assassinated. Thanks Ian, but I'm still wondering why? Maybe they empathised and wanted to keep his name alive. I just don't know.
Disaster: postie has just dropped a clothes catalogue through the door. It's a Gudrun Sjoden one - whacky Swedish clothes that always tempt me. (I've put a link to it on the Links page in case you fancy seeing some colourful off the wall clothes but don't expect cutting edge fashion)
I've just discovered that Bern's been messing about with his iPad sounds too. I jumped out of my skin wondering what's on fire. The noise was like a nuclear fall-out warning - like when the rocket launch place in the James Bond film was about to blow up. We must get to grips with these gadgets and get them behaving sensibly. It's all because Apple updated the iOS operating system and included some super new sounds and we've both been dabbling with them.
Feeling smug - I've managed to churn out my piece for today's writers' meeting. Not smug about it's quality but just for the fact that I managed it. Exercise is to write a piece beginning with "It was just for one night..." Ian (no. 1 grandson) has left us a message here to say (re- Sunday's discussion) that the group Franz Ferdinand did indeed name themselves after the Archduke who was assassinated. Thanks Ian, but I'm still wondering why? Maybe they empathised and wanted to keep his name alive. I just don't know.
Disaster: postie has just dropped a clothes catalogue through the door. It's a Gudrun Sjoden one - whacky Swedish clothes that always tempt me. (I've put a link to it on the Links page in case you fancy seeing some colourful off the wall clothes but don't expect cutting edge fashion)
I've just discovered that Bern's been messing about with his iPad sounds too. I jumped out of my skin wondering what's on fire. The noise was like a nuclear fall-out warning - like when the rocket launch place in the James Bond film was about to blow up. We must get to grips with these gadgets and get them behaving sensibly. It's all because Apple updated the iOS operating system and included some super new sounds and we've both been dabbling with them.
24th March 2014
Richard Harmer (Perton PC) is coming this morning to give my computer the once over. It seems to have recovered a bit but I didn't cancel his visit as a health check is a good idea. I've decided to finish taking in typing and concentrate more on "doing my own thing" before I'm too decrepit. I'll be able to delete the 8000 files of other people's work and gain a bit of space to shuffle my own stuff.
I'm beginning to think Ann was right about this yellow wallpaper - when I switched on this morning I thought "ugh!". You can only stomach this colour for so long especially when you consider the connotations of this particular shade. Words like bile and jaundice come to mind. Then a long-forgotten memory came to me - it was probably way back in the fifties or sixties and my mum had a set of six cereal bowls, each one a different colour. I recall that my Dad flatly refused to eat from the yellow one. Maybe staring at this colour has a psychological effect that reaches the liver. I've jumped the fence to team up with Ann but let's stick it out while the daffs are in bloom and then we'll have a change. Try to think saffron rather than sick - buttercups, not bile. Then hum to yourself Donovan's track... "they call me mellow yellow..." I love that record. I'm just going to peg the washing before Richard gets here.
Richard's been and gone - he gave the old computer a good going over - it did some coughing, had a bit of a spit, and now it's breathing easier and running faster. I must have hit a few wrong keys recently as all the directories were muddled up - text files in pictures and vice versa - my internet explorer was an old version and there were one or two other anomalies he's put right. While we're on the subject of technology: last Friday I changed the sound settings on my iPad. I now realise that I'd installed a sound identical to our front door bell Every time an e-mail hit the iPad I hurtled off to answer the door to find no one there - must do something about that. I'm disappearing up my own do-da with all these ding-dong sounds.
Richard Harmer (Perton PC) is coming this morning to give my computer the once over. It seems to have recovered a bit but I didn't cancel his visit as a health check is a good idea. I've decided to finish taking in typing and concentrate more on "doing my own thing" before I'm too decrepit. I'll be able to delete the 8000 files of other people's work and gain a bit of space to shuffle my own stuff.
I'm beginning to think Ann was right about this yellow wallpaper - when I switched on this morning I thought "ugh!". You can only stomach this colour for so long especially when you consider the connotations of this particular shade. Words like bile and jaundice come to mind. Then a long-forgotten memory came to me - it was probably way back in the fifties or sixties and my mum had a set of six cereal bowls, each one a different colour. I recall that my Dad flatly refused to eat from the yellow one. Maybe staring at this colour has a psychological effect that reaches the liver. I've jumped the fence to team up with Ann but let's stick it out while the daffs are in bloom and then we'll have a change. Try to think saffron rather than sick - buttercups, not bile. Then hum to yourself Donovan's track... "they call me mellow yellow..." I love that record. I'm just going to peg the washing before Richard gets here.
Richard's been and gone - he gave the old computer a good going over - it did some coughing, had a bit of a spit, and now it's breathing easier and running faster. I must have hit a few wrong keys recently as all the directories were muddled up - text files in pictures and vice versa - my internet explorer was an old version and there were one or two other anomalies he's put right. While we're on the subject of technology: last Friday I changed the sound settings on my iPad. I now realise that I'd installed a sound identical to our front door bell Every time an e-mail hit the iPad I hurtled off to answer the door to find no one there - must do something about that. I'm disappearing up my own do-da with all these ding-dong sounds.
23rd March 2014
Sunday again - my un-favourite day of the week. In our house it ends up all newspapers and television interspersed with meals and dusters. Unless we have specific arrangements I find 'quiet Sundays' extremely boring. If the weather is bad everyone hibernates and if the weather's good everyone's out washing cars or mowing - extremely boring.
Bern visited his Mum this morning and for the first time ever she didn't recognise him - she's almost 98 and this morning she thought her care home was a school. Sad to see - c'est la vie.
I've just found something interesting to do. Have you heard of the Future Learn website? Exciting stuff. It lists several universities that are participating in the Future Learn scheme - anyone can sign up for a mini-course and the courses are free. Everything happens online of course. So, just minutes ago, I signed up with Cardiff University for a 5-week mini-course on Community Journalism - I'm expected to dedicate 4 hours per week for 5 weeks. Sounds fun to me. You can do as many courses as you like and there's a range of subjects. A little something to combat the boredom factor. I've put a link to the Future Learn website on the Links Page (just hover your mouse over 'MORE' on the menu above.
Jay and Lesley have had another city weekend in Birmingham - this time the gig was the Glasgow Band Franz Ferdinand - one of their favourites. What a strange name for a contemporary pop band - I wonder how they got round to choosing that name. It reminds me of an historical fact: i.e. Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary was assassinated in Sarajevo in June 1914. His wife Sophie was also killed. It was this atrocity that began a chain of events that led to World War One.
22nd March 2014
Eeeek!!! I've just yelled for Bern to come and move a cockroach type creature that was lying on its back on the kitchen worktop. Bern's specs must be better than mine - my cockroach turned out to be an elongated crumb of burnt toast. Which reminds me, I had a letter from the opticians a couple of weeks ago reminding me that my free eyesight test is two years overdue. Maybe the 'cockroach' came to remind me to beetle off to the optician.
Sunday again - my un-favourite day of the week. In our house it ends up all newspapers and television interspersed with meals and dusters. Unless we have specific arrangements I find 'quiet Sundays' extremely boring. If the weather is bad everyone hibernates and if the weather's good everyone's out washing cars or mowing - extremely boring.
Bern visited his Mum this morning and for the first time ever she didn't recognise him - she's almost 98 and this morning she thought her care home was a school. Sad to see - c'est la vie.
I've just found something interesting to do. Have you heard of the Future Learn website? Exciting stuff. It lists several universities that are participating in the Future Learn scheme - anyone can sign up for a mini-course and the courses are free. Everything happens online of course. So, just minutes ago, I signed up with Cardiff University for a 5-week mini-course on Community Journalism - I'm expected to dedicate 4 hours per week for 5 weeks. Sounds fun to me. You can do as many courses as you like and there's a range of subjects. A little something to combat the boredom factor. I've put a link to the Future Learn website on the Links Page (just hover your mouse over 'MORE' on the menu above.
Jay and Lesley have had another city weekend in Birmingham - this time the gig was the Glasgow Band Franz Ferdinand - one of their favourites. What a strange name for a contemporary pop band - I wonder how they got round to choosing that name. It reminds me of an historical fact: i.e. Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the throne of Austria-Hungary was assassinated in Sarajevo in June 1914. His wife Sophie was also killed. It was this atrocity that began a chain of events that led to World War One.
22nd March 2014
Eeeek!!! I've just yelled for Bern to come and move a cockroach type creature that was lying on its back on the kitchen worktop. Bern's specs must be better than mine - my cockroach turned out to be an elongated crumb of burnt toast. Which reminds me, I had a letter from the opticians a couple of weeks ago reminding me that my free eyesight test is two years overdue. Maybe the 'cockroach' came to remind me to beetle off to the optician.
I've a bit of a gripe about opticians. You get the sales blurb, free this, free that, two for the price of one; or they're hawking free frames or a free spare pair. So you go and do the biz with the eye-test person who kindly whips the round things in and out of the scaffolding on your face so quickly you're unsure if you've given the right answers.
Then comes the choosing, measuring and fitting. It's then I find the "free offer" doesn't apply to me because I need bifocals - and they talk you into vari-focals because they're nicer (and cost more). And so it goes on.... you'd be best to have bendy frames in case you sit on them, and lenses coated with stuff so you don't scratch them, and a posh box so you don't squash them, and some spray stuff and wipe stuff so you don't dirty them. Before you know it you've spent several hundred pounds. And then they expect you to do it all again in two years time. That's why my current specs are two years out of date and burnt crumbs look like cockroaches.
Thanks for the lovely messages posted here: Denise and Maggie like the new yellow but Ann finds it somewhat bilious - have to agree with her, it is very yellow but maybe it reflects my jaundiced view of the world. Maggie is concerned that if I don't get to the optician you may be getting some even worse colours. It'll do while the daffodil season is in full swing.
Andy (middle grandson) had his second knee op yesterday. He's home again now stranded on the sofa with his leg on a cushion. He has crutches and instructions to doss around for six weeks. He's straining at the leash already and won't even contemplate life without football. I did my sensible granny lecture about letting it mend, assisted him in eating some Cadbury's Roses, despite having downed my daily dose of almonds, and promised to call in again next week.
Then comes the choosing, measuring and fitting. It's then I find the "free offer" doesn't apply to me because I need bifocals - and they talk you into vari-focals because they're nicer (and cost more). And so it goes on.... you'd be best to have bendy frames in case you sit on them, and lenses coated with stuff so you don't scratch them, and a posh box so you don't squash them, and some spray stuff and wipe stuff so you don't dirty them. Before you know it you've spent several hundred pounds. And then they expect you to do it all again in two years time. That's why my current specs are two years out of date and burnt crumbs look like cockroaches.
Thanks for the lovely messages posted here: Denise and Maggie like the new yellow but Ann finds it somewhat bilious - have to agree with her, it is very yellow but maybe it reflects my jaundiced view of the world. Maggie is concerned that if I don't get to the optician you may be getting some even worse colours. It'll do while the daffodil season is in full swing.
Andy (middle grandson) had his second knee op yesterday. He's home again now stranded on the sofa with his leg on a cushion. He has crutches and instructions to doss around for six weeks. He's straining at the leash already and won't even contemplate life without football. I did my sensible granny lecture about letting it mend, assisted him in eating some Cadbury's Roses, despite having downed my daily dose of almonds, and promised to call in again next week.
21st March 2014
Happy Wedding Anniversary to Carol and Gary. Daughter's weddings are always flap and panic aren't they? - son's nuptials aren't too bad because the mayhem of frocks and flowers happens at the bride's parents' house and you get to stay at a nice hotel the night before. Well, that's what happened in our case - and it was all many moons ago.
I think I'm going to make some flapjacks this morning - piles of calories but I manage to convince myself they're a tiny bit healthy because they contain oats (I'm prone to delusional moments). I'll catch up with the truth when it lands on my waistline.
I've realised I'm becoming an almond connoisseur - for some time now I've munched my way through a mountain of almonds every day in the interests of trying not to eat chocolate.. I'm not loyal to any particular supermarket so I get to sample Co-op, Sainsbury's, and Waitrose ones. Co-op ones are best value for money - Sainsbury ones are a bit nicer to eat than Co-op ones as they're not so hard - Waitrose ones taste the best but the size of the packet is smaller. I thought I'd share that information with you in case, like me, you become an almond addict. You know it's time to give up the nuts when you feel the urge to run up trees and bury your almonds in the flower border.
Happy Wedding Anniversary to Carol and Gary. Daughter's weddings are always flap and panic aren't they? - son's nuptials aren't too bad because the mayhem of frocks and flowers happens at the bride's parents' house and you get to stay at a nice hotel the night before. Well, that's what happened in our case - and it was all many moons ago.
I think I'm going to make some flapjacks this morning - piles of calories but I manage to convince myself they're a tiny bit healthy because they contain oats (I'm prone to delusional moments). I'll catch up with the truth when it lands on my waistline.
I've realised I'm becoming an almond connoisseur - for some time now I've munched my way through a mountain of almonds every day in the interests of trying not to eat chocolate.. I'm not loyal to any particular supermarket so I get to sample Co-op, Sainsbury's, and Waitrose ones. Co-op ones are best value for money - Sainsbury ones are a bit nicer to eat than Co-op ones as they're not so hard - Waitrose ones taste the best but the size of the packet is smaller. I thought I'd share that information with you in case, like me, you become an almond addict. You know it's time to give up the nuts when you feel the urge to run up trees and bury your almonds in the flower border.
20th March 2014
Sorry I'm late - had a few computer glitches this morning and then it was art class. Just as I arrived home Jay chugged up the road in his old camper van trailed by a waft of diesel fumes. He's enjoying a few days off to use up untaken holiday from last year's entitlement. Anyway, we had a corned beef sandwich (with brown sauce, of course) and talked books - he's currently reading "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller - he says the dialogue is a bit odd but he's finding it quite funny. I have a copy of "The BBC Big Read Book of Books" - it's a useful tome which I bought for £1 in a charity shop - it lists the nation's 100 favourite books so if it's in there it's worth reading. I've looked up Catch-22 and the write up starts with: "...are you mad enough to live? Or sane enough to die? That's the catch. Catch-22. Heads they win, tails you lose. What's a man to do when the unholy powers of military bureaucracy threaten to destroy freedom and the human spirit? This exhilarating comedy blasted its way out of the futility and fear of the Second World War..." I might give it try myself when Jay's finished with it.
Art class went well and I had a Jumbo moment and painted another elephant. Roland gave us a little talk about doing a picture using only one colour - we've been allocated our colour for next week's piece of work and mine is red. (Scary!) The brief is to use varying tones of one colour. I just have to decide my subject matter and medium - in other words, a week's worth of worry.
Sorry I'm late - had a few computer glitches this morning and then it was art class. Just as I arrived home Jay chugged up the road in his old camper van trailed by a waft of diesel fumes. He's enjoying a few days off to use up untaken holiday from last year's entitlement. Anyway, we had a corned beef sandwich (with brown sauce, of course) and talked books - he's currently reading "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller - he says the dialogue is a bit odd but he's finding it quite funny. I have a copy of "The BBC Big Read Book of Books" - it's a useful tome which I bought for £1 in a charity shop - it lists the nation's 100 favourite books so if it's in there it's worth reading. I've looked up Catch-22 and the write up starts with: "...are you mad enough to live? Or sane enough to die? That's the catch. Catch-22. Heads they win, tails you lose. What's a man to do when the unholy powers of military bureaucracy threaten to destroy freedom and the human spirit? This exhilarating comedy blasted its way out of the futility and fear of the Second World War..." I might give it try myself when Jay's finished with it.
Art class went well and I had a Jumbo moment and painted another elephant. Roland gave us a little talk about doing a picture using only one colour - we've been allocated our colour for next week's piece of work and mine is red. (Scary!) The brief is to use varying tones of one colour. I just have to decide my subject matter and medium - in other words, a week's worth of worry.
You'll never guess what day it is today - according to the RSPB website it is World Sparrow Day - I've never heard of it. Apparently our little sparrows are in decline and the RSPB is urging us to stage a sparrow picnic. Do they mean eat them or feed them? I guess they mean put food out for them and nest boxes and stuff like that. I like chattering sparrows so I'll try to offer some TLC, I don't want them to disappear. They're found worldwide now but their decline is evident on other continents too.
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Blimey - it's all happening today. BBC News reckons it's Happiness Day today - I haven't heard of that one either but it sounds like a good idea. They recommend we get out there and socialise, it's good for our wellbeing. They have a point so I say "have a happy Happiness Day and make sure to meet up with your friends and family."
And yet another happening today: it's the Spring (or Vernal) Equinox, so today is officially the first day of spring. I like to follow the Pagan Wheel of the Year which tracks the seasons. The spring equinox is a cross quarter point i.e. halfway between Winter Solstice and Summer Solstice, resulting in equal hours of darkness and daylight. The old Pagan name for the spring equinox is Ostara.
And yet another happening today: it's the Spring (or Vernal) Equinox, so today is officially the first day of spring. I like to follow the Pagan Wheel of the Year which tracks the seasons. The spring equinox is a cross quarter point i.e. halfway between Winter Solstice and Summer Solstice, resulting in equal hours of darkness and daylight. The old Pagan name for the spring equinox is Ostara.
19th March 2014
Budget Day - I guess we'll be subjected to lengthy news items while politicians discuss the ups and downs of the Budget. Do you like the new pound coin? Looks like a hybrid bred from a two-pound coin and the old three-penny piece. It's designed to deter counterfeiters as they reckon 3% of one pound coins in circulation are fake. |
I've been having a spring clean this morning - I've dusted in all the corners of this website and tidied things up. I've consigned some of the clutter to the bin or wherever it is data and bits and bytes disappear to when you delete them. I do love a good sort out.
Richard (the whizzo PC man) is coming on Monday to give my computer a going over - it too is in need of a spring clean. I think it's feeling constipated and has been sending me strange messages that only Richard understands. Latest one said, "...long running script error..." Haven't a clue what that means but it's definitely getting slow and creaky, just like me.
Richard (the whizzo PC man) is coming on Monday to give my computer a going over - it too is in need of a spring clean. I think it's feeling constipated and has been sending me strange messages that only Richard understands. Latest one said, "...long running script error..." Haven't a clue what that means but it's definitely getting slow and creaky, just like me.
18th March 2014
There's so much unsettlement in the world again: Russia, Ukraine, Crimea, it's all going to end in tears. Then there's the sinister happenings regarding the missing plane and its passengers - are they dead or alive? More draught in African regions, more suffering. If we can fly to the moon why can't we pipe water to where it's needed? I see they've finally discovered how our world began. I've tried thinking about it and if the big bang was the actual beginning then what was there in the first place to make the big bang with, so was it really the beginning? Round and round in circles I go trying to fathom the enormity of it all - astrophysics is beyond me.
Back to happier things: I watched Mary Berry working her magic again last night. Then a bit later on, in bed, I laughed my socks off at Michael McIntyre's Chat Show. I love the daft joke he plays using a mobile phone from the audience. We need a bit of silliness to brighten up our mad bad world. Believe it or not, Bern manages to sleep through it all - the telly, my bedside light on, me laughing and shuffling the hottie-bottle... it all happens at our house.
There's so much unsettlement in the world again: Russia, Ukraine, Crimea, it's all going to end in tears. Then there's the sinister happenings regarding the missing plane and its passengers - are they dead or alive? More draught in African regions, more suffering. If we can fly to the moon why can't we pipe water to where it's needed? I see they've finally discovered how our world began. I've tried thinking about it and if the big bang was the actual beginning then what was there in the first place to make the big bang with, so was it really the beginning? Round and round in circles I go trying to fathom the enormity of it all - astrophysics is beyond me.
Back to happier things: I watched Mary Berry working her magic again last night. Then a bit later on, in bed, I laughed my socks off at Michael McIntyre's Chat Show. I love the daft joke he plays using a mobile phone from the audience. We need a bit of silliness to brighten up our mad bad world. Believe it or not, Bern manages to sleep through it all - the telly, my bedside light on, me laughing and shuffling the hottie-bottle... it all happens at our house.
Here's another snippet of history - I like these items as they lend context to our lives and thinking today. This story had me realising how and why the trade unions became so prevalent and indeed powerful... It makes your blood boil when you see how the ruling classes treated the plebeians in times gone by. No wonder there were uprisings...
18th March 1834 - sentence was passed on the Tolpuddle farm labourers who became known as the Tolpuddle Martyrs. (Tolpuddle is a village in Dorset).
Earlier, in February 1834 , George Loveless and five fellow workers had been charged with having taken an illegal oath. But their real crime in the eyes of the establishment was to have formed a trade union to protest about their meagre pay of six shillings a week – the equivalent of 30p in today's money and the third wage cut in as many years. Landowners were determined to stamp out any form of organised protests. So when the local squire and landowner, James Frampton, caught wind of a group of his workers forming a union, he sought to stamp it out.
Workers met under the village sycamore tree or in the upper room of Thomas Standfield's cottage. Members swore an oath of secrecy – it was this act that led to the men's arrest and a sentence of seven years' transportation to Australia.
In prison, George Loveless scribbled some words: “We raise the watchword, liberty. We will, we will, we will be free!" This rallying call underlined the Martyrs’ determination and has since served to inspire generations of people to fight against injustice and oppression.
After the sentence was pronounced, the working class rose up in support of the Martyrs. A massive demonstration marched through London and an 800,000-strong petition was delivered to Parliament protesting about their sentence.
After three years, during which the trade union movement sustained the Martyrs' families by collecting voluntary donations, the government relented and the men returned home with free pardons and as heroes.
18th March 1834 - sentence was passed on the Tolpuddle farm labourers who became known as the Tolpuddle Martyrs. (Tolpuddle is a village in Dorset).
Earlier, in February 1834 , George Loveless and five fellow workers had been charged with having taken an illegal oath. But their real crime in the eyes of the establishment was to have formed a trade union to protest about their meagre pay of six shillings a week – the equivalent of 30p in today's money and the third wage cut in as many years. Landowners were determined to stamp out any form of organised protests. So when the local squire and landowner, James Frampton, caught wind of a group of his workers forming a union, he sought to stamp it out.
Workers met under the village sycamore tree or in the upper room of Thomas Standfield's cottage. Members swore an oath of secrecy – it was this act that led to the men's arrest and a sentence of seven years' transportation to Australia.
In prison, George Loveless scribbled some words: “We raise the watchword, liberty. We will, we will, we will be free!" This rallying call underlined the Martyrs’ determination and has since served to inspire generations of people to fight against injustice and oppression.
After the sentence was pronounced, the working class rose up in support of the Martyrs. A massive demonstration marched through London and an 800,000-strong petition was delivered to Parliament protesting about their sentence.
After three years, during which the trade union movement sustained the Martyrs' families by collecting voluntary donations, the government relented and the men returned home with free pardons and as heroes.
17th March 2014
If St Patrick is your hero, have a great day. I really don't 'get it' - all the parading, boozing, and jollifications in the name of a Saint. Perhaps it all comes down to a national identity thing. But each to his own. I'll keep my dubious thoughts to myself on this one.
If St Patrick is your hero, have a great day. I really don't 'get it' - all the parading, boozing, and jollifications in the name of a Saint. Perhaps it all comes down to a national identity thing. But each to his own. I'll keep my dubious thoughts to myself on this one.
Oh dear, I've just read that Dr Marie Stopes opened the first family planning clinic on 17th March in London - I wonder if she chose this day deliberately to make a statement. I can see that St Patrick and Marie Stopes would not have seen eye-to-eye. Oooh... let's not go there. Religion, politics.... all too contentious. Having shrugged off the temptation to indulge in a soapbox moment I'll aim for a peaceful Monday. (But I do admire her bottle).
Whew - getting fiction out of me is like getting blood out of a stone - I've just finished my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. The exercise is: Every day at the station you see someone you're attracted to. How would you go about getting yourself noticed? I've done a fictional story about a girl and her high-heeled shoes. I'm not very good at plots and soppy stories but I think it meets the brief.
Whew - getting fiction out of me is like getting blood out of a stone - I've just finished my homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting. The exercise is: Every day at the station you see someone you're attracted to. How would you go about getting yourself noticed? I've done a fictional story about a girl and her high-heeled shoes. I'm not very good at plots and soppy stories but I think it meets the brief.
16th March 2014
Wow - another lovely day. The mysteries of weather forecasting are doing their thing, isobars are behaving and the Jet Stream has moved over a bit so at long last we're out of its clutches. The sun is streaming in and showing up horrendous piles of dust on our venetian blinds. I've just given them a quick flick over with the fluffy duster thing on a stick with the windows open and I could see a cloud of dust motes drifting off into the spring air. We have a tub of lovely red and yellow tulips in flower and lots of daffodils around the garden that are reluctant to stand to attention - I bet they're now covered in dust from the blinds.
Andy and Rajni called in just as we'd finished our lunch - they were on their way to the Bentlands for a their lunch. Andy is still hobbling - he's awaiting yet another knee operation. They did let slip that the Shrewsbury people and their visitors from Pattingham had had a 'heavy' Saturday evening. I expect that's the reason for them being incommunicado today. Hm! Anyway, an hour later I learned how to spend a wodge without really trying - pop to Halfords, get your car battery tested, and then in minutes the man fits a new one and says, "Seventy pounds please".
This is a memorable day in the world of football - on 16th March 1872 the first FA Cup competition took place. There were fifteen teams taking part (these days we have more 700 participating teams). Wanderers, a team formed by ex-public school and university players, won the first final 1-0 against Royal Engineers at Kennington Oval. A crowd of 2,000 attended the match and they each paid one shilling entry fee. The first Cup Final goal was scored by Morton Betts, playing under the assumed name of 'A.H. Chequer'. He was an Old Harrovian who had once played for Harrow Chequers.
The original trophy, much smaller than the present one, was made by Messrs Martin, Hall & Co. and cost £20. In 1895, after Aston Villa had won the competition, the cup was stolen from the window of a firm of football outfitters in Birmingham where it had been placed on display. It was never recovered.
The present trophy, played for since 1992, is the competition's fourth and an exact replica of the third. Manchester United have won the Cup the most times (11), followed by Arsenal (10) and Tottenham Hotspur (8). Forty-two different clubs have won it.
The Cup has visited the Midlands several times over the years. I daren't utter the word 'football' without mentioning Arsenal in the same sentence. Gary, Ian, Andy, and Jonathan are avid Gunners fans. Here's the lowdown on Cup winning dates for our local teams - with Arsenal incongruously tacked on the end so my guys don't feel miffed.
Wow - another lovely day. The mysteries of weather forecasting are doing their thing, isobars are behaving and the Jet Stream has moved over a bit so at long last we're out of its clutches. The sun is streaming in and showing up horrendous piles of dust on our venetian blinds. I've just given them a quick flick over with the fluffy duster thing on a stick with the windows open and I could see a cloud of dust motes drifting off into the spring air. We have a tub of lovely red and yellow tulips in flower and lots of daffodils around the garden that are reluctant to stand to attention - I bet they're now covered in dust from the blinds.
Andy and Rajni called in just as we'd finished our lunch - they were on their way to the Bentlands for a their lunch. Andy is still hobbling - he's awaiting yet another knee operation. They did let slip that the Shrewsbury people and their visitors from Pattingham had had a 'heavy' Saturday evening. I expect that's the reason for them being incommunicado today. Hm! Anyway, an hour later I learned how to spend a wodge without really trying - pop to Halfords, get your car battery tested, and then in minutes the man fits a new one and says, "Seventy pounds please".
This is a memorable day in the world of football - on 16th March 1872 the first FA Cup competition took place. There were fifteen teams taking part (these days we have more 700 participating teams). Wanderers, a team formed by ex-public school and university players, won the first final 1-0 against Royal Engineers at Kennington Oval. A crowd of 2,000 attended the match and they each paid one shilling entry fee. The first Cup Final goal was scored by Morton Betts, playing under the assumed name of 'A.H. Chequer'. He was an Old Harrovian who had once played for Harrow Chequers.
The original trophy, much smaller than the present one, was made by Messrs Martin, Hall & Co. and cost £20. In 1895, after Aston Villa had won the competition, the cup was stolen from the window of a firm of football outfitters in Birmingham where it had been placed on display. It was never recovered.
The present trophy, played for since 1992, is the competition's fourth and an exact replica of the third. Manchester United have won the Cup the most times (11), followed by Arsenal (10) and Tottenham Hotspur (8). Forty-two different clubs have won it.
The Cup has visited the Midlands several times over the years. I daren't utter the word 'football' without mentioning Arsenal in the same sentence. Gary, Ian, Andy, and Jonathan are avid Gunners fans. Here's the lowdown on Cup winning dates for our local teams - with Arsenal incongruously tacked on the end so my guys don't feel miffed.
15th March 2014
We were just putting the Sainsbury's shopping away when Jay and Les arrived. They've just had a week off work and spent it doing jobs around the house and having a spring clean. Sounds like a thrill a minute. They're joining Carol and Gary in Shrewsbury later for a night out - that's got to be better than housework.
Oh dear, the text messages are flying between Jay and Bern - Wolves have drawn and broken their run of winning.
We're just back from Mike and Penny's - they've had a "pop-in" going on all afternoon - a farewell do before they move to Cambridge. My carrot cake seemed to be going down well - we've had a lovely time and caught up with friends of long-standing whom we haven't seen for ages... Dorothy Davenport and June and Derek Palmer for starters, Susan from art class was there, and many others of course. I suspect Penny and Mike have suffered angst when parting with some of their thousands of books - downsizing is a difficult exercise and poses many soul-searching decisions when it comes to choosing what to keep and what to abandon. We had a serious de-clutter a couple of years ago involving chucking boxes from the loft into a skip without looking inside them. I've still no idea what it was we threw away but it's very liberating. I now find it quite easy to pass on books and things that I'll never use again. If you dump them at a charity shop there's a bit of comfort in the thought that someone will benefit from them albeit in a small way. I've finally come to believe that 'things' do not matter however valuable they are. When the chips are down, nothing matters except your family and friends - things are just things, stuff, inanimate objects, lifeless, benign, and if you don't use it you don't need it.
We were just putting the Sainsbury's shopping away when Jay and Les arrived. They've just had a week off work and spent it doing jobs around the house and having a spring clean. Sounds like a thrill a minute. They're joining Carol and Gary in Shrewsbury later for a night out - that's got to be better than housework.
Oh dear, the text messages are flying between Jay and Bern - Wolves have drawn and broken their run of winning.
We're just back from Mike and Penny's - they've had a "pop-in" going on all afternoon - a farewell do before they move to Cambridge. My carrot cake seemed to be going down well - we've had a lovely time and caught up with friends of long-standing whom we haven't seen for ages... Dorothy Davenport and June and Derek Palmer for starters, Susan from art class was there, and many others of course. I suspect Penny and Mike have suffered angst when parting with some of their thousands of books - downsizing is a difficult exercise and poses many soul-searching decisions when it comes to choosing what to keep and what to abandon. We had a serious de-clutter a couple of years ago involving chucking boxes from the loft into a skip without looking inside them. I've still no idea what it was we threw away but it's very liberating. I now find it quite easy to pass on books and things that I'll never use again. If you dump them at a charity shop there's a bit of comfort in the thought that someone will benefit from them albeit in a small way. I've finally come to believe that 'things' do not matter however valuable they are. When the chips are down, nothing matters except your family and friends - things are just things, stuff, inanimate objects, lifeless, benign, and if you don't use it you don't need it.
14th March 2014
What on earth shall we talk about today? It's a lovely morning, if a trifle nippy. I wasn't quite up with the lark but I've managed to strip the bed and set the washing machine in motion before attacking my Shredded Wheat - the thrills of Friday. I'm just going to grate some carrots for a carrot cake - I usually manage to shave my knuckles when doing this so wish me luck. I'll pop back later.
Back again: I've had another senior moment - I made the carrot cake, put it in the oven then realised I'd forgotten to add the cinnamon and nutmeg. The cake is for friends who are having a bit of a do tomorrow, so I muttered strongly, turned the air blue, and set about making another one. State of play now is: tasty cake for my friends, less tasty cake for us. Hopefully it won't be too bad when I've put the topping on. I bet you're wondering whether I'll get them muddled up and deliver the wrong one. Dilemma sorted - theirs is round ours is square.
You know that quotation from Shakespeare's tragedy, Julius Caesar... "Beware the Ides of March..." well, it's the ides of March tomorrow so you'd better beware.
Maggie has left a message here asking "What are the Ides of March?"
I was expecting the Ides to be something sinister but they're nothing more than Roman calendar stuff.
In Roman times The Ides of March was the way of saying "March 15th". Months of the Roman calendar were arranged around three named days - the Kalends, the Nones and the Ides - and these were reference points from which the other (unnamed) days were calculated:
Kalends (1st day of the month)
Nones (the 7th day in March, May, July, and October; the 5th in the other months)
Ides (the 15th day in March, May, July, and October; the 13th in the other months)
What a palaver, I wonder why they didn't just number the days 1, 2, 3 etc. The Ides of March had no connection with doom and gloom until Shakespeare wrote his play. So unless your name is Julius Caesar you've nothing to worry about tomorrow. March 15th was the day Caesar was bumped off and it was the Soothsayer who warned Caesar "...beware the Ides of March."
What on earth shall we talk about today? It's a lovely morning, if a trifle nippy. I wasn't quite up with the lark but I've managed to strip the bed and set the washing machine in motion before attacking my Shredded Wheat - the thrills of Friday. I'm just going to grate some carrots for a carrot cake - I usually manage to shave my knuckles when doing this so wish me luck. I'll pop back later.
Back again: I've had another senior moment - I made the carrot cake, put it in the oven then realised I'd forgotten to add the cinnamon and nutmeg. The cake is for friends who are having a bit of a do tomorrow, so I muttered strongly, turned the air blue, and set about making another one. State of play now is: tasty cake for my friends, less tasty cake for us. Hopefully it won't be too bad when I've put the topping on. I bet you're wondering whether I'll get them muddled up and deliver the wrong one. Dilemma sorted - theirs is round ours is square.
You know that quotation from Shakespeare's tragedy, Julius Caesar... "Beware the Ides of March..." well, it's the ides of March tomorrow so you'd better beware.
Maggie has left a message here asking "What are the Ides of March?"
I was expecting the Ides to be something sinister but they're nothing more than Roman calendar stuff.
In Roman times The Ides of March was the way of saying "March 15th". Months of the Roman calendar were arranged around three named days - the Kalends, the Nones and the Ides - and these were reference points from which the other (unnamed) days were calculated:
Kalends (1st day of the month)
Nones (the 7th day in March, May, July, and October; the 5th in the other months)
Ides (the 15th day in March, May, July, and October; the 13th in the other months)
What a palaver, I wonder why they didn't just number the days 1, 2, 3 etc. The Ides of March had no connection with doom and gloom until Shakespeare wrote his play. So unless your name is Julius Caesar you've nothing to worry about tomorrow. March 15th was the day Caesar was bumped off and it was the Soothsayer who warned Caesar "...beware the Ides of March."
13th March 2014
I've just read that Uranus was discovered on March 13th (1781). Poor Uranus always the butt of jokes and word-play. (Oops, butt! a Freudian slip on my part - sorry). Can't linger longer at the mo - it's art class morning again. It always arrives before I've given it much thought so I've stuffed things into my bag and I'm attempting to 'wing it' this morning.
I've just read that Uranus was discovered on March 13th (1781). Poor Uranus always the butt of jokes and word-play. (Oops, butt! a Freudian slip on my part - sorry). Can't linger longer at the mo - it's art class morning again. It always arrives before I've given it much thought so I've stuffed things into my bag and I'm attempting to 'wing it' this morning.
Back again. I managed to blag my way through the lesson and look like I was 'doing something'. I used a newspaper clipping for guidance - it was a photograph of elephants - I tried to paint them in watercolour in a 'loose' style without drawing them first. I'm not happy with it, Roland wasn't very impressed either. Better luck next time. There's not much else happening today.
12th March 2014
I think the pigeons have sneaked in under the cover of this morning's mist. They're bullying the sparrows and blackbird to vacate their perches in the holly tree. I'm not keen for the pigeons to commandeer this spot as it's a bit near the washing line and pigeon poo would be unwelcome. I can hear their persistent and gormless coo-coo sound - I'd rather hear the twittering of the smaller birds.
I've just heard that Jon and Andy were on the loose in Munich at the weekend - one of those money-wasting stag things that they go in for these days. Not sure I want to know how it went. Do I hound them and dole out wise words, or lie low and keep my mouth shut? Kill-joy grumpy Gran or turn a blind eye indulgence? I've texted to ask how it went - I fear the lack of response speaks volumes.
Well the sunshine finally got through and I was able to act as foreman/adviser while Bern pruned a tall mahonia shrub, following that I loaned a supervisory eye regarding the spreading of a bag of ripe horse manure.
I think the pigeons have sneaked in under the cover of this morning's mist. They're bullying the sparrows and blackbird to vacate their perches in the holly tree. I'm not keen for the pigeons to commandeer this spot as it's a bit near the washing line and pigeon poo would be unwelcome. I can hear their persistent and gormless coo-coo sound - I'd rather hear the twittering of the smaller birds.
I've just heard that Jon and Andy were on the loose in Munich at the weekend - one of those money-wasting stag things that they go in for these days. Not sure I want to know how it went. Do I hound them and dole out wise words, or lie low and keep my mouth shut? Kill-joy grumpy Gran or turn a blind eye indulgence? I've texted to ask how it went - I fear the lack of response speaks volumes.
Well the sunshine finally got through and I was able to act as foreman/adviser while Bern pruned a tall mahonia shrub, following that I loaned a supervisory eye regarding the spreading of a bag of ripe horse manure.
11th March 2014
The mystery of the missing plane continues - friends and families of passengers and crew must be demented not knowing if their people are dead or alive.
I've not been very successful with my writers' homework - if inspiration fails write a limerick. I must make it clear that's not good advice, just my way of copping out; and that's what I've done. When the chair-person says, 'who's done the homework?' I can honestly say 'yes', and they'll find out it's rubbish in due course.
The mystery of the missing plane continues - friends and families of passengers and crew must be demented not knowing if their people are dead or alive.
I've not been very successful with my writers' homework - if inspiration fails write a limerick. I must make it clear that's not good advice, just my way of copping out; and that's what I've done. When the chair-person says, 'who's done the homework?' I can honestly say 'yes', and they'll find out it's rubbish in due course.
11th March is noted as the day the Luddites smashed up their workplace. They were a group of framework-knitters (Nottingham) and were led by Ned Ludd. They regarded the introduction of new machinery as being a threat to their livelihoods. Things got out of hand and many riots and acts of destruction occurred around the area in the following months. The unrest and vandalism went on for some five years and it said that the skill and secrecy involved is unparalleled in civilized society. Seems like they were pretty crafty rebels and they certainly made their mark - the word Luddite has entered our language to mean a person who resists new technology. Actually... and I hate to mention it... I think I know a few Luddites...
10th March 2014
We did Carol's drive-to-work phone call this morning - they'd spent yesterday mowing and hoeing. Yesterday evening I finished the green jumper's sleeves - only the neck to do now and the sewing together. Can you believe it? I'm actually getting to grips with my phone at last. Carol took pictures on her phone, sent them to my phone, and I've managed to get them onto the computer - easy-peasy for most people but a first for me. I've spent the morning compiling the programme for writers' group summer term weekly homework tasks. It's a bit of a headache trying to maintain variety - we've been going for over two decades so it's inevitable that topics eventually get repeated.
We did Carol's drive-to-work phone call this morning - they'd spent yesterday mowing and hoeing. Yesterday evening I finished the green jumper's sleeves - only the neck to do now and the sewing together. Can you believe it? I'm actually getting to grips with my phone at last. Carol took pictures on her phone, sent them to my phone, and I've managed to get them onto the computer - easy-peasy for most people but a first for me. I've spent the morning compiling the programme for writers' group summer term weekly homework tasks. It's a bit of a headache trying to maintain variety - we've been going for over two decades so it's inevitable that topics eventually get repeated.
9th March 2014
The sun has got his hat on and it's magic is working - I can hear the distant drone of lawn mowers this morning . We've just spent a jolly hour unbunging the dishwasher. I thought I'd bought a packet of dishwasher salt so Bern poured it down the appropriate hole. Then we noticed that the box said 'dishwasher powder' - oops! I didn't even know about dishwasher powder I thought you had to have those little square things.
We've had an hour in the garden: snipping, weeding, and topping up the bird feeders. It's time now to start worrying about Tuesday's writers' homework. We have to do a brain-storm beginning with the word 'curiosity'. The idea is that you study your subsequent lists of word associations developed from 'curiosity' to find inspiration: now I wonder if something will jump out and grab me or will it be a "pigs might fly" situation. We also have an art project to think about - in two weeks time we have to paint a picture using only one colour i.e. various tones of the same colour - the outcome of that will be either interesting or disastrous. Looks like I'll be musing, mulling, and pondering big time.
The sun has got his hat on and it's magic is working - I can hear the distant drone of lawn mowers this morning . We've just spent a jolly hour unbunging the dishwasher. I thought I'd bought a packet of dishwasher salt so Bern poured it down the appropriate hole. Then we noticed that the box said 'dishwasher powder' - oops! I didn't even know about dishwasher powder I thought you had to have those little square things.
We've had an hour in the garden: snipping, weeding, and topping up the bird feeders. It's time now to start worrying about Tuesday's writers' homework. We have to do a brain-storm beginning with the word 'curiosity'. The idea is that you study your subsequent lists of word associations developed from 'curiosity' to find inspiration: now I wonder if something will jump out and grab me or will it be a "pigs might fly" situation. We also have an art project to think about - in two weeks time we have to paint a picture using only one colour i.e. various tones of the same colour - the outcome of that will be either interesting or disastrous. Looks like I'll be musing, mulling, and pondering big time.
8th March 2014
10.00 am. Happy Birthday Lesley - have a lovely day. It's International Women's Day today - feel free to chuck your weight about girls, but spare a thought for the women living in developing countries and under oppressive regimes, their lot is not a happy one. International Women's Day began in 1910 - I don't like using the acronym IWD it sounds like something that's contagious. |
Terrible news about that missing aeroplane - hope they manage to discover what's happened. The postman's just been and brought my copy of "Mary Berry Cooks" (half price on Amazon). She seems to be flavour of the month at the moment - now I'm worried that Delia is sulking in her pantry, we haven't seen much of her lately have we? Nigella seems to have taken a back row seat too at the moment. The three of them ought to get together, they could call themselves "Flour Power" or, seeing as they are into cooking, a new take on "Spice Girls".
7th March 2014
Happy Birthday to Bern - a significant one entitling us to watch telly for free - no licence to buy now. My brother (also Bernard) and Trudie called this morning on a Birthday visit - coffee, chat, etc. as you do. Carol popped in after work and Jay and Les arrived shortly after.
Happy Birthday to Bern - a significant one entitling us to watch telly for free - no licence to buy now. My brother (also Bernard) and Trudie called this morning on a Birthday visit - coffee, chat, etc. as you do. Carol popped in after work and Jay and Les arrived shortly after.
Maggie and I, helped by Rosemary, have just finished setting up the Writers display in St Nicholas church. We've presented a challenge for people to write a short piece and leave it in the posting box - if there are any responses we'll publish them on the Writers' website.
Everything on our panels is to the theme of "Shoes", including a quote by Marilyn Monroe..."Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she'll conquer the world..."
Everything on our panels is to the theme of "Shoes", including a quote by Marilyn Monroe..."Give a girl the right pair of shoes and she'll conquer the world..."
6th March 2014
Art class - must dash - cu l8r.
It turned into a busy day - sorry to have taken so long to get back. I've been baking all afternoon, it's a multi birthday week for us, Gary, Lesley, Bern within days of each other - events that warrant cake. I continued with last week's still life at art class - Roland's guitar and an arrangement of other things - just Susan and me doing it but he was pleased with our efforts.
A quick hop from pencils and paint to peas - I've never given a thought to why Birdseye peas are so called. The first bloke who put frozen food on the market on 6th March 1930 in Massachusetts USA, was Clarence Birdseye. It's never occurred to me that Birdseye was someone's name - I thought it it was a variety of pea. From that iota of useless information you'll guess that I'm waffling - nothing momentous has transpired today so I don't have much to say.
I've finished off the panels for the Arts Festival display - Maggie and I will be putting them up tomorrow ready for Saturday's Creativity Day.
Art class - must dash - cu l8r.
It turned into a busy day - sorry to have taken so long to get back. I've been baking all afternoon, it's a multi birthday week for us, Gary, Lesley, Bern within days of each other - events that warrant cake. I continued with last week's still life at art class - Roland's guitar and an arrangement of other things - just Susan and me doing it but he was pleased with our efforts.
A quick hop from pencils and paint to peas - I've never given a thought to why Birdseye peas are so called. The first bloke who put frozen food on the market on 6th March 1930 in Massachusetts USA, was Clarence Birdseye. It's never occurred to me that Birdseye was someone's name - I thought it it was a variety of pea. From that iota of useless information you'll guess that I'm waffling - nothing momentous has transpired today so I don't have much to say.
I've finished off the panels for the Arts Festival display - Maggie and I will be putting them up tomorrow ready for Saturday's Creativity Day.
5th March 2014
Another lovely morning and the crocuses are smiling wide - the birds are getting busy, they're all a-twitter and planning new nests. In bird terms I guess it's like a visit to Ikea or looking in the estate agent's window.
I'm just pondering today's agenda, Syd is coming to collect his typing. Alan is coming this evening, we're going grapple with technology to launch the second volume of Anita's stories for Kindle downloading (sales proceeds to charity). We find two heads are better than one doing this exercise - Alan reads the instructions and I hit the keys. You can find the stories on Amazon's Kindle page by typing in Anita Haynes on the Amazon website. If writing for the women's magazine market is your forte, then Anita's stories are a great example of 'how to'. Both collections are compilations of published stories. Volume II should be ready for download within a couple of weeks after Alan has done the formalities with the account.
Gary (son-in-law) is Birthday Boy today - Happy Birthday Gary - he's having to spend it doing an arduous business trip drive to Doncaster. We'll catch up eventually and do cards and cake stuff.
Another lovely morning and the crocuses are smiling wide - the birds are getting busy, they're all a-twitter and planning new nests. In bird terms I guess it's like a visit to Ikea or looking in the estate agent's window.
I'm just pondering today's agenda, Syd is coming to collect his typing. Alan is coming this evening, we're going grapple with technology to launch the second volume of Anita's stories for Kindle downloading (sales proceeds to charity). We find two heads are better than one doing this exercise - Alan reads the instructions and I hit the keys. You can find the stories on Amazon's Kindle page by typing in Anita Haynes on the Amazon website. If writing for the women's magazine market is your forte, then Anita's stories are a great example of 'how to'. Both collections are compilations of published stories. Volume II should be ready for download within a couple of weeks after Alan has done the formalities with the account.
Gary (son-in-law) is Birthday Boy today - Happy Birthday Gary - he's having to spend it doing an arduous business trip drive to Doncaster. We'll catch up eventually and do cards and cake stuff.
4th March 2014
I saw on this morning's news that much of the flood water has receded, that's good news. Some people may have to wait until as far ahead as September until their homes are habitable again. We wish them well.
This is Jane Seabourne who is coming to do our writers' group workshop. Jane is someone who, via quirks of fate, I've bumped into many times over the years, she's a little thread weaving in and out of the fabric of my life. I turned up (years ago) at Wulfrun College for an assessment exam and Jane was the person invigilating the event. Later on we met at Pendrell Hall when she attended a course I was tutoring. Then I found she was also a friend of several of my friends and so the connections grew. Our paths have crossed at colleges, poetry readings, and even funerals. In recent times she comes to do our workshops. She's a well published poet, writer, teacher, performer. Indeed, Jane is very much an OK sort of person.
Just back from the library and our meeting: Everyone enjoyed the workshop and everyone produced a piece of work. Here's a comment from Maggie: "...She is totally amazing and her workshop this morning was brilliant. What talent. I think we all want to write poetry now."
Jane's theme today was "Home Made, Home Grown". Several people went down the vegetable route, others chose to talk about remembered gardens of their parents and grandparents. Someone wrote about living abroad and the experience of buying fabric and sewing with limited resources. I used the cat-sick green jumper I'm knitting for my theme, and yes, I've put it on the Betty's Writing Page (link).
I saw on this morning's news that much of the flood water has receded, that's good news. Some people may have to wait until as far ahead as September until their homes are habitable again. We wish them well.
This is Jane Seabourne who is coming to do our writers' group workshop. Jane is someone who, via quirks of fate, I've bumped into many times over the years, she's a little thread weaving in and out of the fabric of my life. I turned up (years ago) at Wulfrun College for an assessment exam and Jane was the person invigilating the event. Later on we met at Pendrell Hall when she attended a course I was tutoring. Then I found she was also a friend of several of my friends and so the connections grew. Our paths have crossed at colleges, poetry readings, and even funerals. In recent times she comes to do our workshops. She's a well published poet, writer, teacher, performer. Indeed, Jane is very much an OK sort of person.
Just back from the library and our meeting: Everyone enjoyed the workshop and everyone produced a piece of work. Here's a comment from Maggie: "...She is totally amazing and her workshop this morning was brilliant. What talent. I think we all want to write poetry now."
Jane's theme today was "Home Made, Home Grown". Several people went down the vegetable route, others chose to talk about remembered gardens of their parents and grandparents. Someone wrote about living abroad and the experience of buying fabric and sewing with limited resources. I used the cat-sick green jumper I'm knitting for my theme, and yes, I've put it on the Betty's Writing Page (link).
3rd March 2014
What a lovely morning... I'm off to Rene's Residents' Group shortly - she's asked me to do a little talk about Bilbrook. It's always been such a tiny dot on the map there's not a lot of documented information but I've managed to compile a few handouts about Bilbrook Past thanks to the Internet. Catch up with you later...
Back again - had a lovely time with the ladies and gent in Rene's group. We reminisced (always good for the soul) about the Bilbrook and Codsall of long ago and also the places where some of the members originated. The morning ended with sandwiches, cakes and cups of tea - splendid!
What a lovely morning... I'm off to Rene's Residents' Group shortly - she's asked me to do a little talk about Bilbrook. It's always been such a tiny dot on the map there's not a lot of documented information but I've managed to compile a few handouts about Bilbrook Past thanks to the Internet. Catch up with you later...
Back again - had a lovely time with the ladies and gent in Rene's group. We reminisced (always good for the soul) about the Bilbrook and Codsall of long ago and also the places where some of the members originated. The morning ended with sandwiches, cakes and cups of tea - splendid!
2nd March 2014
Oh dear, the rumblings between Russia and Ukraine are worrying. I hope someone manages to pour oil on troubled waters. I still wonder why why why do we have wars going on today when history illustrates the insane futility of it all? Are human beings not intelligent enough to discuss their differences without resorting to mass slaughter? Obviously not - we should let elephants or apes be the number one mammal - homo sapiens have proved themselves to be pretty stupid.
We've just whizzed round doing our Sunday morning vacuuming stint. Bern's now gone to visit his mother while I do stuff with a duster and tackle the bathroom. That's the house sorted for a few days. How interesting - NOT. I haven't any writers' group homework to worry about this week - we have Jane Seabourne coming to do a workshop.
I managed to stay awake until 1.00am to listen to Garrison Keillor Radio Show (last night's show was coming from Detroit) I must have fallen asleep halfway through because when I woke up this morning I'd missed the adventures of Guy Noir - Private Eye. I enjoy all the nonsense on there and the tinny twangy sound of the Hill Billy music and sometimes it's Grand Old Oprey. It's all about a place called Lake Wobegon, a mythical town in Minnesota. The show has been running for years in the US and is as much of an institution as the Goon Show was here. Must say though - it's a bit like Marmite - you either love it, or hate it. I like Marmite and Garrison Keillor.
P.S. Tight-wad Bernie has just spotted and item in the Telegraph - he advises we hot-foot it to the Post Office to stock up on stamps, they're going up AGAIN 1st class to .62p and 2nd class to .53p taking effect on 31st March.
Oh dear, the rumblings between Russia and Ukraine are worrying. I hope someone manages to pour oil on troubled waters. I still wonder why why why do we have wars going on today when history illustrates the insane futility of it all? Are human beings not intelligent enough to discuss their differences without resorting to mass slaughter? Obviously not - we should let elephants or apes be the number one mammal - homo sapiens have proved themselves to be pretty stupid.
We've just whizzed round doing our Sunday morning vacuuming stint. Bern's now gone to visit his mother while I do stuff with a duster and tackle the bathroom. That's the house sorted for a few days. How interesting - NOT. I haven't any writers' group homework to worry about this week - we have Jane Seabourne coming to do a workshop.
I managed to stay awake until 1.00am to listen to Garrison Keillor Radio Show (last night's show was coming from Detroit) I must have fallen asleep halfway through because when I woke up this morning I'd missed the adventures of Guy Noir - Private Eye. I enjoy all the nonsense on there and the tinny twangy sound of the Hill Billy music and sometimes it's Grand Old Oprey. It's all about a place called Lake Wobegon, a mythical town in Minnesota. The show has been running for years in the US and is as much of an institution as the Goon Show was here. Must say though - it's a bit like Marmite - you either love it, or hate it. I like Marmite and Garrison Keillor.
P.S. Tight-wad Bernie has just spotted and item in the Telegraph - he advises we hot-foot it to the Post Office to stock up on stamps, they're going up AGAIN 1st class to .62p and 2nd class to .53p taking effect on 31st March.
1st March 2014
Dydd Gwyl Dewi (St David's Day) - leeks and daffodils at the ready. It's first of the month too so we also have to say "White Rabbits" or an utterance of "Mad March Hares" would be good under the circumstances. Did you know that March used to be the first month of the year? - its name comes from the Roman Martius, or Mars, the God of War. It wasn't until the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1752 that March moved to 3rd position. The Anglo-Saxons called this month Hlyd monath (stormy month) or Hraed monath (rugged month) sensible names and self-explanatory. That's March sorted out - what's next? Just nipping off to the supermarket now - back later.
The chaps are happy - Wolves have won 3-0 and are top of their league - whoo-hoo! We've been to the garden centre to get fat balls for the birds, then on to Pattingham to see the new wardrobes - they cover one wall - sliding doors - very swish. Jay and Lesley are really pleased with them. After that a quick gallop round Sainsbury's. Supper's on - pasta tonight. Jay and I compared the joys of smart phones (I know, I promised not to mention it again) he's Apple iPhone and mine is a lesser spotted Samsung - but functionality is much the same (I think). Thing is, they're for making a phone call so why do we get carried away indulging in all the add-ons, slick apps, and other gimmicky nonsense? Mine actually tells me what the weather is doing in Bilbrook, it knows where I am because of its GPS facility. Thing is, I live here in Bilbrook and I know what the weather is doing I can see it through the window. So what's that all about? If your mobile is less than modern, I'd say if it works stick with your brick.
Dydd Gwyl Dewi (St David's Day) - leeks and daffodils at the ready. It's first of the month too so we also have to say "White Rabbits" or an utterance of "Mad March Hares" would be good under the circumstances. Did you know that March used to be the first month of the year? - its name comes from the Roman Martius, or Mars, the God of War. It wasn't until the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1752 that March moved to 3rd position. The Anglo-Saxons called this month Hlyd monath (stormy month) or Hraed monath (rugged month) sensible names and self-explanatory. That's March sorted out - what's next? Just nipping off to the supermarket now - back later.
The chaps are happy - Wolves have won 3-0 and are top of their league - whoo-hoo! We've been to the garden centre to get fat balls for the birds, then on to Pattingham to see the new wardrobes - they cover one wall - sliding doors - very swish. Jay and Lesley are really pleased with them. After that a quick gallop round Sainsbury's. Supper's on - pasta tonight. Jay and I compared the joys of smart phones (I know, I promised not to mention it again) he's Apple iPhone and mine is a lesser spotted Samsung - but functionality is much the same (I think). Thing is, they're for making a phone call so why do we get carried away indulging in all the add-ons, slick apps, and other gimmicky nonsense? Mine actually tells me what the weather is doing in Bilbrook, it knows where I am because of its GPS facility. Thing is, I live here in Bilbrook and I know what the weather is doing I can see it through the window. So what's that all about? If your mobile is less than modern, I'd say if it works stick with your brick.
28th February 2014
I see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) has performed a magnificent sky concert again - there's some great pics on the BBC Website. I'm going to be shuffling paper this morning - On Monday I'm doing a little talk for Rene's Residents' Group so a bit of preparation for that and next Friday Maggie and I will be setting up the Writers' Group display for the Codsall Arts Festival Creativity Day event in St Nicholas Church which takes place on the 8th, so I'm typing, sticking and stapling for that.
I see the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) has performed a magnificent sky concert again - there's some great pics on the BBC Website. I'm going to be shuffling paper this morning - On Monday I'm doing a little talk for Rene's Residents' Group so a bit of preparation for that and next Friday Maggie and I will be setting up the Writers' Group display for the Codsall Arts Festival Creativity Day event in St Nicholas Church which takes place on the 8th, so I'm typing, sticking and stapling for that.
27th February 2014
February seems to have slipped through our fingers in a flash - only one day left. Must dash now (art class) I'll be back later.
Back again - had a difficult task this morning. Roland set up a still life with guitar, music stand, sheet music and a couple more bits and pieces - hell of a challenge. Only Susan and I, tackled it. We made a good start but still have a way to go.
February seems to have slipped through our fingers in a flash - only one day left. Must dash now (art class) I'll be back later.
Back again - had a difficult task this morning. Roland set up a still life with guitar, music stand, sheet music and a couple more bits and pieces - hell of a challenge. Only Susan and I, tackled it. We made a good start but still have a way to go.
Are you wondering about the canoe? I read in one of my 'fount of knowledge' type books that it is Longfellow's birth date today (1807). I remember being enthralled with his "The Song of Hiawatha" when I was at junior school and today prompted me to take another look at. I have an ancient copy and it is really quite a lengthy work for a poem. My little paperback (priced 50p so goodness knows how long I've had it) is 176 pages long. To this day I remember chanting "...By the shores of Gitche Gumee, By the shining Big-Sea-Water, Stood the wigwam of Nokomis..." Nokomis was Hiawatha's grandmother, she took care of him as his mother died in childbirth. The epic poem tells Hiawatha's life story up to his death. I find it an amazing work as I'm quite taken with the actual construction of the poem - the relentless rhythm never falters and carries you along so that you barely notice there's not a single rhyme.
There was, many moons ago, a real Hiawatha - he was a chief of the Onondaga tribe of Indians in North America in the latter part of the sixteenth century. He was quite a guy and succeeded in persuading the six main tribes of the Iroquois Indians to band together in a union of peace and common government. The early part of the poem talks about a meeting arranged by Gitche Manito, the mighty spirit, when all the warriors washed off their war paint, threw down their weapons, and lit up their peace pipes. I expect Longfellow's poem is very much fact mixed with folklore - but it's a great story and I like to think it's a true one.
There was, many moons ago, a real Hiawatha - he was a chief of the Onondaga tribe of Indians in North America in the latter part of the sixteenth century. He was quite a guy and succeeded in persuading the six main tribes of the Iroquois Indians to band together in a union of peace and common government. The early part of the poem talks about a meeting arranged by Gitche Manito, the mighty spirit, when all the warriors washed off their war paint, threw down their weapons, and lit up their peace pipes. I expect Longfellow's poem is very much fact mixed with folklore - but it's a great story and I like to think it's a true one.
I've been digging around to see if 26th Feb has any claim to fame, and yes it does. The Grand National was first run on 26th Feb 1839. During that first race a Captain Becher, was thrown from his mount at a jump - it is now known as Becher's Brook - so that's how it got its name. Today is also the day when the first Bank of England £1 notes were issued (1797).
Codsall Arts Festival begins next weekend - I've bought my ticket to see Andrew Motion on the 26th at the High School. (Poet Laureate 1999-2009). The Writers' Group will have a small display at the Creativity Day on March 8th - 9.30-5.00 in St Nicholas Church - a free event.
No news of the family in recent days - they're all at the grindstone buried in work.
25th February 2014
Thought I'd treat us to a few daffs this morning just to help the day along. I promise not to mention the communication gismo - although I am more kindly disposed towards it today. Best if we have some widget-free time for a change - do a bit of wandering lonely as a cloud and enjoy the daffs. Mind you, cloud has other connotations now, I don't quite understand how the stuff on one's computer gets onto a 'cloud' - it's the terminology I guess that has me thinking my files are sitting up there in the sky and will they get wet if it rains? All these virtual goings on are on a par with the vagaries of existentialism and metaphysics - it's enough to make you weep - or hibernate. I've been ferreting and Googling this morning looking for images for Thursday's art class. Roland has suggested we do something about floods. Not an easy task in my book and I haven't settled on anything yet. Maggie says she too is looking at all things watery ready for Thursday.
Back from writers' meeting - all went well. Daffs abound today - our ten-minute in-house writing exercise, set by Cora, was to write about the little bunch of daffs tied with yellow ribbon that she'd brought to inspire us. Several people went down the funeral route and then when I got home Carol (daughter) had left a macabre little message for us here "...Love the daffs, my all time fave flower! Will try to time my demise to coincide with spring so as to have some yellow blooms on my cardboard coffin to send me off into the ether!" And on that happy note....
Thought I'd treat us to a few daffs this morning just to help the day along. I promise not to mention the communication gismo - although I am more kindly disposed towards it today. Best if we have some widget-free time for a change - do a bit of wandering lonely as a cloud and enjoy the daffs. Mind you, cloud has other connotations now, I don't quite understand how the stuff on one's computer gets onto a 'cloud' - it's the terminology I guess that has me thinking my files are sitting up there in the sky and will they get wet if it rains? All these virtual goings on are on a par with the vagaries of existentialism and metaphysics - it's enough to make you weep - or hibernate. I've been ferreting and Googling this morning looking for images for Thursday's art class. Roland has suggested we do something about floods. Not an easy task in my book and I haven't settled on anything yet. Maggie says she too is looking at all things watery ready for Thursday.
Back from writers' meeting - all went well. Daffs abound today - our ten-minute in-house writing exercise, set by Cora, was to write about the little bunch of daffs tied with yellow ribbon that she'd brought to inspire us. Several people went down the funeral route and then when I got home Carol (daughter) had left a macabre little message for us here "...Love the daffs, my all time fave flower! Will try to time my demise to coincide with spring so as to have some yellow blooms on my cardboard coffin to send me off into the ether!" And on that happy note....
24th February 2014
Quite spring-like in the sunshine isn't it? But not spring-like enough to keep me from being grumpy again. I know I'm a bore but this damn phone is winning the battle. Moments ago it came within a hair's breadth of it's temperamental touch-screen of being hurled at the wall or dumped in the bin. Instead of ringing it's decided to shiver so if anyone thinks I've ignored their text or call, profuse and abject apologies, I'm currently incommunicado - blame the Samsung monster. Let's pull the plug on phones for now.
Happy birthday Doreen (my friend in Bilbrook - we don't mention numbers, not nice at our age.) Well, I've managed to do my writers group homework so I can turn up guilt-free tomorrow.
I've just read that 24th Feb in 1991 saw the commencement of the Gulf War ground campaign for the liberation of Kuwait. It brought back memories of a worrying time as Jay was there. For some time while the offensive took place we had no contact nor any idea where he was - but that's all in the past now. I think I'll do a bit of pruning and tidying outside while the sun's out if only to turn my back on the little monster.
23rd February 2014
I'm less grumpy today having unravelled the mysteries of Whats App - downloaded it, typed in the code number which came from California to get connected and finally exchanged messages with Carol. It feels like I've been halfway round the world to get this phone up and running. Carol's been nagging me for ages to get Whats App so we can exchange messages free of charge - the penny finally dropped for me and I discovered that with What's App you can do voice messages as well as text, now I see the attraction. I think I've indicated before that my daughter has more to say than she does to text - things are falling into place. She and Gerry were about to launch themselves into John Lewis in Glasgow before getting the train home. Phone-wise I've a long way to go but I've made a start. It's a matter of moaning long and loud enough until 'they' who are younger can sort me out. Had a text from Jay (on the new phone of course) to say that their new fitted wardrobes are 'ace' - that means they're pleased with them. Sorry about all the phone talk (phone talk - get it?) but it's taken over my life, I've become just like the annoying teenagers who only function via a phone.
Quite spring-like in the sunshine isn't it? But not spring-like enough to keep me from being grumpy again. I know I'm a bore but this damn phone is winning the battle. Moments ago it came within a hair's breadth of it's temperamental touch-screen of being hurled at the wall or dumped in the bin. Instead of ringing it's decided to shiver so if anyone thinks I've ignored their text or call, profuse and abject apologies, I'm currently incommunicado - blame the Samsung monster. Let's pull the plug on phones for now.
Happy birthday Doreen (my friend in Bilbrook - we don't mention numbers, not nice at our age.) Well, I've managed to do my writers group homework so I can turn up guilt-free tomorrow.
I've just read that 24th Feb in 1991 saw the commencement of the Gulf War ground campaign for the liberation of Kuwait. It brought back memories of a worrying time as Jay was there. For some time while the offensive took place we had no contact nor any idea where he was - but that's all in the past now. I think I'll do a bit of pruning and tidying outside while the sun's out if only to turn my back on the little monster.
23rd February 2014
I'm less grumpy today having unravelled the mysteries of Whats App - downloaded it, typed in the code number which came from California to get connected and finally exchanged messages with Carol. It feels like I've been halfway round the world to get this phone up and running. Carol's been nagging me for ages to get Whats App so we can exchange messages free of charge - the penny finally dropped for me and I discovered that with What's App you can do voice messages as well as text, now I see the attraction. I think I've indicated before that my daughter has more to say than she does to text - things are falling into place. She and Gerry were about to launch themselves into John Lewis in Glasgow before getting the train home. Phone-wise I've a long way to go but I've made a start. It's a matter of moaning long and loud enough until 'they' who are younger can sort me out. Had a text from Jay (on the new phone of course) to say that their new fitted wardrobes are 'ace' - that means they're pleased with them. Sorry about all the phone talk (phone talk - get it?) but it's taken over my life, I've become just like the annoying teenagers who only function via a phone.
22nd February 2014
Not a good start to the day; it turned out to be window cleaner Saturday - ladders rattled while I was still half asleep but managed to hurl myself out of bed and cower on the landing with all doors closed until they'd gone - Bern was bemused and wondered what I was fussing about.
Grumpiness abounds.... yesterday afternoon I bought a new phone (my old one was getting temperamental) and I succumbed to the temptations of a smart phone - not a high end one, more middle of the road. When I handed over my retiring one to the sales assistant so she could swap the sim card, she took one look at my dinky pink fold-up Nokia and said "bless". Grrrr.... same response as when my car went for an MoT - (see 22nd August last year.) So much pressure to be 'cutting edge'. Just a little by-the-by, have you noticed that cutting edge people aren't always the sharpest knives in the box? There's a little bit of wisdom in there somewhere, must winkle it out sometime. Anyway, back to the point, this bloody so-called smart phone has me tearing my hair out. Got ratty within minutes. It's accompanying booklet entitled 'Quick Start Guide' has a about three pages of information in tiny print that I can't see. Got the magnifier out and found that if you go to www.somewhere etc you can print off the operating instruction. I did what it said and was invited to print off a 120 x A4 pages - i.e. ton of paper and oodles of printer ink at the customer's expense. Not impressed with that. Oh, and while I'm at it, I still can't work the flipping phone it's much too smart for me - maybe I've made it to the cutting edge after all. Grrr - very cross indeed! Help! Jay.... Carol... Momma calling....
Not a good start to the day; it turned out to be window cleaner Saturday - ladders rattled while I was still half asleep but managed to hurl myself out of bed and cower on the landing with all doors closed until they'd gone - Bern was bemused and wondered what I was fussing about.
Grumpiness abounds.... yesterday afternoon I bought a new phone (my old one was getting temperamental) and I succumbed to the temptations of a smart phone - not a high end one, more middle of the road. When I handed over my retiring one to the sales assistant so she could swap the sim card, she took one look at my dinky pink fold-up Nokia and said "bless". Grrrr.... same response as when my car went for an MoT - (see 22nd August last year.) So much pressure to be 'cutting edge'. Just a little by-the-by, have you noticed that cutting edge people aren't always the sharpest knives in the box? There's a little bit of wisdom in there somewhere, must winkle it out sometime. Anyway, back to the point, this bloody so-called smart phone has me tearing my hair out. Got ratty within minutes. It's accompanying booklet entitled 'Quick Start Guide' has a about three pages of information in tiny print that I can't see. Got the magnifier out and found that if you go to www.somewhere etc you can print off the operating instruction. I did what it said and was invited to print off a 120 x A4 pages - i.e. ton of paper and oodles of printer ink at the customer's expense. Not impressed with that. Oh, and while I'm at it, I still can't work the flipping phone it's much too smart for me - maybe I've made it to the cutting edge after all. Grrr - very cross indeed! Help! Jay.... Carol... Momma calling....
21st February 2014
These weather extremes are worrying aren't they? Floods, sink holes, and now an earthquake. Is our planet going to implode - or at least our bit of it? I suppose it will one day in the far distant future, which gives no answer to one's ponderings on the meaning of life. Let's not touch on metaphysics - too vast, too vague, and definitely implosive in a disappearing up your own thingy sort of way. Do you ever have those sort of thoughts? What's in space after the parts we already know about? How far does it stretch? I can't picture infinity - can you? Then I think about the vastness of our own little planet, and we're only one little planet amongst many, all the creatures, all the people, in the grand scheme of things we little people are about as significant as an ant or a grain of sand, so why do we spend our allotted time striving to achieve things and acquire stuff? Then I get onto millennia, the eons of time; considering the millions of years past and the millions of years to come, we've not been given a very big slice of it. Like I said, let's not touch on metaphysical...
Carol has a jolly weekend ahead - it's her friend Gerry's birthday - they're doing a girly overnighter to see a Jack Vetriano exhibition in Glasgow (Gerry's favourite artist). Maggie has just left a message here saying they have a JV picture, the one with the glamorous couple dancing on the beach. Maggies' comment on the meaning of life: "...don't even go there, it'll drive you mad." She's quite right of course.
Ian has left us a message on having a metaphysical moment at the sink: "It's funny you should mention 'the meaning of life' etc today. I was thinking about it this morning as I washed up (I know, shocking in itself!). We can't be the only planet that is in the perfect place in terms of distance from the sun etc in order for life to be found on it."
These weather extremes are worrying aren't they? Floods, sink holes, and now an earthquake. Is our planet going to implode - or at least our bit of it? I suppose it will one day in the far distant future, which gives no answer to one's ponderings on the meaning of life. Let's not touch on metaphysics - too vast, too vague, and definitely implosive in a disappearing up your own thingy sort of way. Do you ever have those sort of thoughts? What's in space after the parts we already know about? How far does it stretch? I can't picture infinity - can you? Then I think about the vastness of our own little planet, and we're only one little planet amongst many, all the creatures, all the people, in the grand scheme of things we little people are about as significant as an ant or a grain of sand, so why do we spend our allotted time striving to achieve things and acquire stuff? Then I get onto millennia, the eons of time; considering the millions of years past and the millions of years to come, we've not been given a very big slice of it. Like I said, let's not touch on metaphysical...
Carol has a jolly weekend ahead - it's her friend Gerry's birthday - they're doing a girly overnighter to see a Jack Vetriano exhibition in Glasgow (Gerry's favourite artist). Maggie has just left a message here saying they have a JV picture, the one with the glamorous couple dancing on the beach. Maggies' comment on the meaning of life: "...don't even go there, it'll drive you mad." She's quite right of course.
Ian has left us a message on having a metaphysical moment at the sink: "It's funny you should mention 'the meaning of life' etc today. I was thinking about it this morning as I washed up (I know, shocking in itself!). We can't be the only planet that is in the perfect place in terms of distance from the sun etc in order for life to be found on it."
20th February 2014
Ooh gosh - had a text from Carol at lunchtime complaining about my state of taciturnity (sounds painful doesn't it?). This blog is her usual lunchtime reading and she felt a bit deprived. I was bereft of ideas this morning - couldn't even find anything worth Googling. I could bore you with trivia such as, I'm now on the sleeves of the cat-sick green jumper having completed the back and front. Phew, it's slow going in 4-ply. (see 9th Feb). Jay has had a week off work to get their bedroom decorated - they're having fitted wardrobes installed tomorrow. Roland has e-mailed me to say "get your act together, it's time to start a new painting." I'm short of ideas in the art department too , any suggestions?
Ooh gosh - had a text from Carol at lunchtime complaining about my state of taciturnity (sounds painful doesn't it?). This blog is her usual lunchtime reading and she felt a bit deprived. I was bereft of ideas this morning - couldn't even find anything worth Googling. I could bore you with trivia such as, I'm now on the sleeves of the cat-sick green jumper having completed the back and front. Phew, it's slow going in 4-ply. (see 9th Feb). Jay has had a week off work to get their bedroom decorated - they're having fitted wardrobes installed tomorrow. Roland has e-mailed me to say "get your act together, it's time to start a new painting." I'm short of ideas in the art department too , any suggestions?
19th February 2014
I bet a pound to a penny someone's hauled their sewing machine down from the loft this morning. "Sewing Bee" (started again last night) it's quite inspiring isn't it. Makes you want to get cutting, tacking, pinning, and buzzing away on the old machine. Well... maybe it's not everyone's cup of tea but I love watching it. Lesley (not daughter-in-law Lesley, but friend Lesley from writers' group) was accepted and should have been on this new series. A pre-booked holiday coincided with the filming schedule so she had to drop out, the BBC have asked her to apply again for the third series. That's exciting isn't it? Coincidentally, my two Lesleys live round the corner from each other in Pattingham but have never met - must introduce them sometime. All this talk of sewing and domesticity brings to mind the Jam and Jerusalem brigade - 19th Feb 1897 saw the beginning of the Women's Institute. We think of it as quintessentially British but it was actually founded in Canada by Adelaide Hoodless.
My cold is still in mid-fling, I've forked out for some balm-infused posh tissues, my usual 'no frills' 'own brand' cheapo ones have become coarse sandpaper. The joys of the common cold can get pretty uncomfortable.
P.S. Carol (daughter) to whom the mysteries of sewing remain a mystery, when it comes to gadgets she prefers a high-end food mixer, has left us a message: "...I have no desire whatsoever to pin tack, hem or machine, however I did whip up a delightful batch of coconut slice in my Kitchen Aid last night!"
I bet a pound to a penny someone's hauled their sewing machine down from the loft this morning. "Sewing Bee" (started again last night) it's quite inspiring isn't it. Makes you want to get cutting, tacking, pinning, and buzzing away on the old machine. Well... maybe it's not everyone's cup of tea but I love watching it. Lesley (not daughter-in-law Lesley, but friend Lesley from writers' group) was accepted and should have been on this new series. A pre-booked holiday coincided with the filming schedule so she had to drop out, the BBC have asked her to apply again for the third series. That's exciting isn't it? Coincidentally, my two Lesleys live round the corner from each other in Pattingham but have never met - must introduce them sometime. All this talk of sewing and domesticity brings to mind the Jam and Jerusalem brigade - 19th Feb 1897 saw the beginning of the Women's Institute. We think of it as quintessentially British but it was actually founded in Canada by Adelaide Hoodless.
My cold is still in mid-fling, I've forked out for some balm-infused posh tissues, my usual 'no frills' 'own brand' cheapo ones have become coarse sandpaper. The joys of the common cold can get pretty uncomfortable.
P.S. Carol (daughter) to whom the mysteries of sewing remain a mystery, when it comes to gadgets she prefers a high-end food mixer, has left us a message: "...I have no desire whatsoever to pin tack, hem or machine, however I did whip up a delightful batch of coconut slice in my Kitchen Aid last night!"
18th February 2014
Half term here in Staffordshire so no writers or art meetings this week, gives us plenty of time to get to grips with next week's homework. We have to write an essay arguing the point against a well know adage or proverb: for example, "a stitch in time saves nine" but you have to discuss the point to prove it untrue. Some of the writers are meeting at the Pattingham coffee shop today but I'll not be delivering my germs to them.
Of all today's news items I think the one about lacy knickers being banned in Russia is the most odd. Someone should remind President Putin that we're in the 21st Century now - why should politicians decide what sort of knickers women wear? I just don't get it. Crotchety old Kremlin needs a kick up the gusset. Having made that comment I'll be on the lookout for 'men in suits' lurking under the lamppost in our street. Tip me off if you see them first. I wonder if the human rights people will stick their oar in on this one - shouldn't all women have the right to wear pretty knickers?
It's a bit of a birthday for Pluto today - anniversary of its discovering in 1930. Actually it's not a planet any longer, it was reclassified in 2006 as a dwarf planet.
Half term here in Staffordshire so no writers or art meetings this week, gives us plenty of time to get to grips with next week's homework. We have to write an essay arguing the point against a well know adage or proverb: for example, "a stitch in time saves nine" but you have to discuss the point to prove it untrue. Some of the writers are meeting at the Pattingham coffee shop today but I'll not be delivering my germs to them.
Of all today's news items I think the one about lacy knickers being banned in Russia is the most odd. Someone should remind President Putin that we're in the 21st Century now - why should politicians decide what sort of knickers women wear? I just don't get it. Crotchety old Kremlin needs a kick up the gusset. Having made that comment I'll be on the lookout for 'men in suits' lurking under the lamppost in our street. Tip me off if you see them first. I wonder if the human rights people will stick their oar in on this one - shouldn't all women have the right to wear pretty knickers?
It's a bit of a birthday for Pluto today - anniversary of its discovering in 1930. Actually it's not a planet any longer, it was reclassified in 2006 as a dwarf planet.
This is poor little Pluto - demoted in 2006. It looks like a melting Malteser
While I was looking at all things astral I found this useful mnemonic to help remember the plants in their correct order:
My Very Energetic Mother Just Served Up Noodles
Mercury Venus Earth Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune
While I was looking at all things astral I found this useful mnemonic to help remember the plants in their correct order:
My Very Energetic Mother Just Served Up Noodles
Mercury Venus Earth Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune
17th February 2014
My cold is still raging, can't say my mojo is zinging but I'm conscious. Re my entry of 15th Feb entry and the brass monkey thing (which I thought meant something rude to do with a monkey's do-dahs) well - a chap from the writers' forum I frequent has left a message pointing out that a brass monkey is a brass tray on which they used to stack the cannon balls on ships. I assume that means galleon type ships. In extremes of cold the balls would contract slightly and topple - hence "cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey". Thanks Bill - that's cleared (and cleaned) things up for me.
My cold is still raging, can't say my mojo is zinging but I'm conscious. Re my entry of 15th Feb entry and the brass monkey thing (which I thought meant something rude to do with a monkey's do-dahs) well - a chap from the writers' forum I frequent has left a message pointing out that a brass monkey is a brass tray on which they used to stack the cannon balls on ships. I assume that means galleon type ships. In extremes of cold the balls would contract slightly and topple - hence "cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey". Thanks Bill - that's cleared (and cleaned) things up for me.
16th February 2014
Didn't feel too good this morning, headache, sore throat, drippy nose. But it's Ian's (no 1 grandson) thirtieth today and we're due at the Whittington Arms just outside Lichfield, very near to the Staffordshire Regiment Museum.
(Later) Seventeen of us partook of a nice Sunday roast, then came the birthday gifts, cake, the works, as you do... we had a lovely time. It's always nice to catch up with everyone and hear their news. I was wilting by four o'clock so we scurried home and I crawled into bed to do my dying duck act - hence the lack of joie de vivre in today's missive but Happy Birthday Ian.
Didn't feel too good this morning, headache, sore throat, drippy nose. But it's Ian's (no 1 grandson) thirtieth today and we're due at the Whittington Arms just outside Lichfield, very near to the Staffordshire Regiment Museum.
(Later) Seventeen of us partook of a nice Sunday roast, then came the birthday gifts, cake, the works, as you do... we had a lovely time. It's always nice to catch up with everyone and hear their news. I was wilting by four o'clock so we scurried home and I crawled into bed to do my dying duck act - hence the lack of joie de vivre in today's missive but Happy Birthday Ian.
15th February 2014
Brrr definitely parky this morning - or maybe 'brass monkeys' is your phrase for cold. Strange how we colour our language with these odd expressions - no one seems to know why we say 'parky' and I haven't bothered to delve into the reason for brass monkeys, I've a suspicion it has rude connections.
Over forty years ago 15th February was D-day. Not the landing on the beaches D-day, but a change in our monetary system D-day. I've been looking at the Royal Mint website and it's quite interesting. When we "went decimal" it was the first major change in almost 1000 years. I poked around and found nostalgic reminders of florins, shillings, farthings, guineas and half crowns. I'd almost forgotten about them. I remember that dress shops used to price the garments in guineas. I'm hard pressed to remember how many old pence were in one pound and after much debate and chanting of "12 pence one shilling, 20 shillings 1 pound, etc" (infant class stuff) Bern and I decided it must have been 240. It didn't seem too mysterious when we were at junior school but looking back from our standpoint in 2014 it was a pretty convoluted system. When we changed over I always felt that we'd been cheated. You could give a child a three-penny piece for running an errand, and it was enough for a Mars Bar. But come 15th Feb it wasn't. I wonder if shopkeepers pulled a few flankers during the confusion of the changeover.
Another thought: pounds, shillings and pence (or sterling) was also referred to as LSD - maybe it's a good job we were decimalised because LSD has a completely new and sinister meaning.
Brrr definitely parky this morning - or maybe 'brass monkeys' is your phrase for cold. Strange how we colour our language with these odd expressions - no one seems to know why we say 'parky' and I haven't bothered to delve into the reason for brass monkeys, I've a suspicion it has rude connections.
Over forty years ago 15th February was D-day. Not the landing on the beaches D-day, but a change in our monetary system D-day. I've been looking at the Royal Mint website and it's quite interesting. When we "went decimal" it was the first major change in almost 1000 years. I poked around and found nostalgic reminders of florins, shillings, farthings, guineas and half crowns. I'd almost forgotten about them. I remember that dress shops used to price the garments in guineas. I'm hard pressed to remember how many old pence were in one pound and after much debate and chanting of "12 pence one shilling, 20 shillings 1 pound, etc" (infant class stuff) Bern and I decided it must have been 240. It didn't seem too mysterious when we were at junior school but looking back from our standpoint in 2014 it was a pretty convoluted system. When we changed over I always felt that we'd been cheated. You could give a child a three-penny piece for running an errand, and it was enough for a Mars Bar. But come 15th Feb it wasn't. I wonder if shopkeepers pulled a few flankers during the confusion of the changeover.
Another thought: pounds, shillings and pence (or sterling) was also referred to as LSD - maybe it's a good job we were decimalised because LSD has a completely new and sinister meaning.
14th February 2014
Well here it is, today's the day, hope all the ladies are languishing on silk cushions and wallowing in red roses, stuffed to the gills with chocolate, wading through a mountain of Valentine cards. We exchanged jokey ones just for a titter.
Now to put the kibosh on things. Call me a wet blanket – a kill joy – a cynic - call me anything you like - but I’ve happened upon the fact that St Valentine, along with other saints, is actually the patron saint of leprosy – how romantic is that?
“Britain's Roman Catholic Church is advising lovelorn singles to direct their 14th February requests for love to St Raphael, rather than St Valentine.” This little gem was posted on the BBC website way back in 2009 – I don’t recall anyone shouting it from the rooftops so I thought today is an appropriate time to give it another airing. These days it’s better known as Valentine’s day and has become a secular event.
From all the bumph I’ve read, the only story that comes anywhere near romantic is the one that says the birds (feathered variety) choose their mates on this day. You have to spare a thought for all the growers, florists, chocolate makers, shopkeepers, card manufacturers, restaurants (it’s a long list) getting rich on the back of the wrong saint. What a dilemma. If you insist on the truth and want to be romantic your card should say “Be My Raphael” .
Well here it is, today's the day, hope all the ladies are languishing on silk cushions and wallowing in red roses, stuffed to the gills with chocolate, wading through a mountain of Valentine cards. We exchanged jokey ones just for a titter.
Now to put the kibosh on things. Call me a wet blanket – a kill joy – a cynic - call me anything you like - but I’ve happened upon the fact that St Valentine, along with other saints, is actually the patron saint of leprosy – how romantic is that?
“Britain's Roman Catholic Church is advising lovelorn singles to direct their 14th February requests for love to St Raphael, rather than St Valentine.” This little gem was posted on the BBC website way back in 2009 – I don’t recall anyone shouting it from the rooftops so I thought today is an appropriate time to give it another airing. These days it’s better known as Valentine’s day and has become a secular event.
From all the bumph I’ve read, the only story that comes anywhere near romantic is the one that says the birds (feathered variety) choose their mates on this day. You have to spare a thought for all the growers, florists, chocolate makers, shopkeepers, card manufacturers, restaurants (it’s a long list) getting rich on the back of the wrong saint. What a dilemma. If you insist on the truth and want to be romantic your card should say “Be My Raphael” .
13th February 2014
Art class today - just lingering here for a moment while I drink a mug of tea and down a shed-load of pills (well a few, I'm given to hyperbole). I've been out to pick up some blown-about flower pots and everything seems to have calmed down a bit - fingers crossed for well behaved weather today. Back later.
Just come in from the cold: nice sunshine though. A good morning at art class with much talk of floods and lack of river dredging. I've done a bit of a Google to find out about the river oyster and other creatures that have prompted the environmentalists to minimise dredging. In so doing I came across an item in the Daily Mail (online version). It is a petition to which anyone can put their name (added mine) and here's the wording you would be signing: left click on the link below, then scroll down past the picture of the oyster, past the picture of the flooded houses and you will find a little box where you can support the petition if you wish.
Dear Prime Minister,
I strongly urge you to divert some of the £11billion
a year spent on overseas aid to ease the suffering of
British flood victims, and to build and maintain flood
defences to prevent a repetition of this crisis.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2558087/So-wasnt-Thames-dredged-In-case-rare-mollusc-disturbed-despite-region-described-one-undefended-flood-plains-England.html#ixzz2tCz0OIzh
Maggie has left a comment on this subject: The irony is that the PM has told us that we are a wealthy country and we don't need to divert the overseas money. Wait until someone else requests vital funds and see what he says then
Art class today - just lingering here for a moment while I drink a mug of tea and down a shed-load of pills (well a few, I'm given to hyperbole). I've been out to pick up some blown-about flower pots and everything seems to have calmed down a bit - fingers crossed for well behaved weather today. Back later.
Just come in from the cold: nice sunshine though. A good morning at art class with much talk of floods and lack of river dredging. I've done a bit of a Google to find out about the river oyster and other creatures that have prompted the environmentalists to minimise dredging. In so doing I came across an item in the Daily Mail (online version). It is a petition to which anyone can put their name (added mine) and here's the wording you would be signing: left click on the link below, then scroll down past the picture of the oyster, past the picture of the flooded houses and you will find a little box where you can support the petition if you wish.
Dear Prime Minister,
I strongly urge you to divert some of the £11billion
a year spent on overseas aid to ease the suffering of
British flood victims, and to build and maintain flood
defences to prevent a repetition of this crisis.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2558087/So-wasnt-Thames-dredged-In-case-rare-mollusc-disturbed-despite-region-described-one-undefended-flood-plains-England.html#ixzz2tCz0OIzh
Maggie has left a comment on this subject: The irony is that the PM has told us that we are a wealthy country and we don't need to divert the overseas money. Wait until someone else requests vital funds and see what he says then
12th February 2014
Gloomy, windy, wet, and cold: my excuse for lingering under the duvet and watching the Winter Olympics Ice Skating. Having got up an hour later than usual I now feel guilt-ridden for being a lazy bones and having to adjust my pill-swallowing schedule. Life get's complicated doesn't it? I'm just trying to decide how to fill the next few hours - options are, housework, ironing, knitting, reading, writing, painting, but I've decided on baking as it sounds a warm thing to do on a cold day and there's some eggs need using before they're out of date. My family think I'm potty because I stick to the confines of 'sell-by' and 'use-by' dates. Mind you, some things drive me wild, you can't buy some items in small enough jars. Things like horseradish sauce, salad cream etc. When you've hunted for a magnifying glass to read the small print you discover that you have to 'use within 4 weeks' and should have chucked it out two months ago - I'm always discarding half-used jars and bottles of various commodities. I think I'll start a campaign for "Small Portions at Fair Prices" if only to eliminate waste. Maybe I'd be better off not battling with the small print in the first place and then I wouldn't know we were eating stale stuff.... would I?
Gloomy, windy, wet, and cold: my excuse for lingering under the duvet and watching the Winter Olympics Ice Skating. Having got up an hour later than usual I now feel guilt-ridden for being a lazy bones and having to adjust my pill-swallowing schedule. Life get's complicated doesn't it? I'm just trying to decide how to fill the next few hours - options are, housework, ironing, knitting, reading, writing, painting, but I've decided on baking as it sounds a warm thing to do on a cold day and there's some eggs need using before they're out of date. My family think I'm potty because I stick to the confines of 'sell-by' and 'use-by' dates. Mind you, some things drive me wild, you can't buy some items in small enough jars. Things like horseradish sauce, salad cream etc. When you've hunted for a magnifying glass to read the small print you discover that you have to 'use within 4 weeks' and should have chucked it out two months ago - I'm always discarding half-used jars and bottles of various commodities. I think I'll start a campaign for "Small Portions at Fair Prices" if only to eliminate waste. Maybe I'd be better off not battling with the small print in the first place and then I wouldn't know we were eating stale stuff.... would I?
Do you know, I've just peeped at the site stats, and while I've been churning out that last paragraph 15 people have popped in for a visit - so hi folks (Betty waves furiously) hope you're not having a boring day too. If you are we can blame the weather - so depressing and debilitating. I think you should all grab a cup of tea, put your feet up, and watch the telly or get lost in your library book. Yes - read your library book. We need to support our local library big time, it's currently under a black cloud awaiting budgetary decisions. At yesterday's writers' meeting we were given forms so we could offer suggestions of how the library could provide other services to benefit the community so if you've any innovative notions do let them know.
11th February 2014
I'm dumbfounded - I just looked up and saw it - on top of everything else that's been chucked at us recently, it has the audacity to snow. Mother Nature is very much a Contrary Mary these days. And as if people don't have enough to put up with - society's scum are stooping to looting abandoned homes. No good banging on about it but some folk must be nearing 'last straw' and 'camel's back' scenario.
I'm trying to think of something more interesting than weather: here's a little fact for you... over 350 years ago the French philosopher and mathematician Renee Descartes died on 11th Feb – he’s the chap who came up with the famous quote “I think therefore I am”. Some wit coined a glib response to that “I’m pink therefore I’m Spam.” Oh well, I found it amusing.
Back from the writers' meeting - (subject was to write about your name) everyone had responded to the topic and it seems no one is totally happy with their name - makes sense really as it is chosen for you by someone else - it's just something you're stuck with unless, of course, you can be bothered to inform the world and his dog to call you something else, and that could be asking for trouble.
Reminder: time to get a soppy card for the 14th.
I'm dumbfounded - I just looked up and saw it - on top of everything else that's been chucked at us recently, it has the audacity to snow. Mother Nature is very much a Contrary Mary these days. And as if people don't have enough to put up with - society's scum are stooping to looting abandoned homes. No good banging on about it but some folk must be nearing 'last straw' and 'camel's back' scenario.
I'm trying to think of something more interesting than weather: here's a little fact for you... over 350 years ago the French philosopher and mathematician Renee Descartes died on 11th Feb – he’s the chap who came up with the famous quote “I think therefore I am”. Some wit coined a glib response to that “I’m pink therefore I’m Spam.” Oh well, I found it amusing.
Back from the writers' meeting - (subject was to write about your name) everyone had responded to the topic and it seems no one is totally happy with their name - makes sense really as it is chosen for you by someone else - it's just something you're stuck with unless, of course, you can be bothered to inform the world and his dog to call you something else, and that could be asking for trouble.
Reminder: time to get a soppy card for the 14th.
10th February 2014
Crocuses are almost out and daffs are up and budding - the witch-hazel is still flowering - blackbirds are staking their territories and protesting every time I step outside - I just wish we could have a dry spell now, but I see it's not on the cards at the moment. I'm just going to do something for tomorrow's writers' meeting - we have to write about how we feel about our name. I ask you! Look what I'm stuck with. I can see it will end up as a bit of a rant - I always wanted a posh name like Fiona, Hermione, or Claudia. People are really imaginative when naming their children today - a friend in the writers' group has granddaughters named Blossom and Meadow - Jose's granddaughters are Scout and Maisie - all interestingly different.
Oh no... the rain has arrived - what a cheerless Monday.
Crocuses are almost out and daffs are up and budding - the witch-hazel is still flowering - blackbirds are staking their territories and protesting every time I step outside - I just wish we could have a dry spell now, but I see it's not on the cards at the moment. I'm just going to do something for tomorrow's writers' meeting - we have to write about how we feel about our name. I ask you! Look what I'm stuck with. I can see it will end up as a bit of a rant - I always wanted a posh name like Fiona, Hermione, or Claudia. People are really imaginative when naming their children today - a friend in the writers' group has granddaughters named Blossom and Meadow - Jose's granddaughters are Scout and Maisie - all interestingly different.
Oh no... the rain has arrived - what a cheerless Monday.
9th February 2014
Anyone watching the Winter Olympics? I enjoyed the skating yesterday afternoon but got in a bit of a muddle when it said 'press the red button'. I pressed the wrong red button and ended up recording stuff we didn't want. I've just been reading about Eddie the Eagle - since his exploits in the Calgary Olympics of 1988 he's earned celebrity and, he reckons, around £1.5 million on the strength his image... that of a hapless chap bravely ready to give it a go. He's was the first man ever to represent Great Britain in the Ski Jump event - his cheerful optimism endeared him to the nation. Good luck to you Eddie.
I've started knitting a jumper in 4-ply, it sure does take a long time to grow after all the chunky yarns we're used to these days. It's on 2.75mm needles (old sizing 12) and my yarn is a sort of cat-sick green. It's going to take ages... wonder if I'll ever finish it... and I wonder why I chose that colour...
Anyone watching the Winter Olympics? I enjoyed the skating yesterday afternoon but got in a bit of a muddle when it said 'press the red button'. I pressed the wrong red button and ended up recording stuff we didn't want. I've just been reading about Eddie the Eagle - since his exploits in the Calgary Olympics of 1988 he's earned celebrity and, he reckons, around £1.5 million on the strength his image... that of a hapless chap bravely ready to give it a go. He's was the first man ever to represent Great Britain in the Ski Jump event - his cheerful optimism endeared him to the nation. Good luck to you Eddie.
I've started knitting a jumper in 4-ply, it sure does take a long time to grow after all the chunky yarns we're used to these days. It's on 2.75mm needles (old sizing 12) and my yarn is a sort of cat-sick green. It's going to take ages... wonder if I'll ever finish it... and I wonder why I chose that colour...
8th February 2014
A bright breezy morning here - I'm sure we all extend sympathy to folk in other parts of the country suffering floods and coastal storms - and the forecast says more to come. I know banging on about the weather is a bore but it's pretty much at the forefront these days.
E-mail from Andy - his knee is not looking good and he has to revisit the surgeon to see if he can be patched up yet again. Happy birthday Audrey (Lesley's Mum) Jay and Les will be doing a visit.
Change of tack: It’s thirty-one years ago today since Shergar (the prize stallion) was kidnapped. They’ve still not found him and the ransom money was never paid. Oh dear – I just thought about the burgher meat scandal that came to light last year – I hope we haven’t eaten him. Sorry to saddle you with that awful idea and stirrup a worrying moment.
A bright breezy morning here - I'm sure we all extend sympathy to folk in other parts of the country suffering floods and coastal storms - and the forecast says more to come. I know banging on about the weather is a bore but it's pretty much at the forefront these days.
E-mail from Andy - his knee is not looking good and he has to revisit the surgeon to see if he can be patched up yet again. Happy birthday Audrey (Lesley's Mum) Jay and Les will be doing a visit.
Change of tack: It’s thirty-one years ago today since Shergar (the prize stallion) was kidnapped. They’ve still not found him and the ransom money was never paid. Oh dear – I just thought about the burgher meat scandal that came to light last year – I hope we haven’t eaten him. Sorry to saddle you with that awful idea and stirrup a worrying moment.
7th February 2014
Can't think of a thing to talk about this morning which indicates how exciting the days are. Carol rang (drive to work, you know the routine) to say Andy is out of action. He's injured the much doctored knee again and was at the hospital until late last night having x-rays and there's another visit planned for today. Methinks (and his Dad's already mooted it) the time approaches when he's going to have to give up football if he wishes to stay mobile. It's impossible to express the extent of his angst if that has to happen. Carol was all a-twitter about the birds in the night. She said when she wakes up in the night she can hear the birds singing in the dark. I suggested It may be the street lights and their little bird brains think it's dawn - on the other hand, maybe they've caught the chatterbox bug and we all know who the carrier is.
Here's a message from Maggie in response to my comment of yesterday about reality TV programmes: "Me too (re naff progs). We've had bake off, sew off and just had interior design off. Novice designers were given rooms to design for real house owners, so they had to please them as well as judges. Series over now so itching to have a go at home. If you get chance, go and see new David Wilson show homes on Wergs road. Fabulous!!" Thanks for that Maggie, and now for the stampede to David Wilson show homes.
Can't think of a thing to talk about this morning which indicates how exciting the days are. Carol rang (drive to work, you know the routine) to say Andy is out of action. He's injured the much doctored knee again and was at the hospital until late last night having x-rays and there's another visit planned for today. Methinks (and his Dad's already mooted it) the time approaches when he's going to have to give up football if he wishes to stay mobile. It's impossible to express the extent of his angst if that has to happen. Carol was all a-twitter about the birds in the night. She said when she wakes up in the night she can hear the birds singing in the dark. I suggested It may be the street lights and their little bird brains think it's dawn - on the other hand, maybe they've caught the chatterbox bug and we all know who the carrier is.
Here's a message from Maggie in response to my comment of yesterday about reality TV programmes: "Me too (re naff progs). We've had bake off, sew off and just had interior design off. Novice designers were given rooms to design for real house owners, so they had to please them as well as judges. Series over now so itching to have a go at home. If you get chance, go and see new David Wilson show homes on Wergs road. Fabulous!!" Thanks for that Maggie, and now for the stampede to David Wilson show homes.
5th February 2014
It seems like the coastal storms will never end - I see Dawlish had a battering. It reminds me of the time Peggy and I went there as teenagers in the 1950s. (she's my friend in Australia). It was a hot summer and in the evening the constant chirping of crickets filled the air. I remember too the horrible stuff washed up on the beach - we soon changed our minds about plunging into the waves. I would hope they've cleaned up their act a bit by now.
Talking of the 50s - 4th February 1953 saw the end of rationing of sweets and chocolate after more than 10 years. An attempt to remove confectionary rationing in 1949 had to be abolished as demand outstripped supply. During the War everyone was limited to 2 ounces of sweets per week. By the end of the War we were allowed a greedy 6 ounces per week. I remember those fiddly little coupons that were snipped out of your ration book each time you purchased something. What a performance that was. (Maggie has just left a message after reading this to say she wishes they'd bring back sweet rationing so her choccy consumption is controlled.)
Back to the weather thing - the forecast man has just said that this awful weather we're getting is due to the jet stream which prompted me to find out just what the jet stream is - so here's the gen from the BBC website:
The jet stream consists of ribbons of very strong winds which move weather systems around the globe. Jet streams are found 9-16 km above the surface of the Earth, just below the tropopause, and can reach speeds of 200 mph.
How does the jet stream affect the weather? The position of a jet stream varies within the natural fluctuations of the environment. They are caused by the temperature difference between tropical air masses, air masses, and polar air masses. What happens in one part of the world depends on what is happening elsewhere - the atmosphere is a complete environment with numerous connections. Waves or ripples along the jet stream can cause Atlantic depressions to deepen explosively as they are steered towards the UK, so they are very important to meteorologists.
It seems like the coastal storms will never end - I see Dawlish had a battering. It reminds me of the time Peggy and I went there as teenagers in the 1950s. (she's my friend in Australia). It was a hot summer and in the evening the constant chirping of crickets filled the air. I remember too the horrible stuff washed up on the beach - we soon changed our minds about plunging into the waves. I would hope they've cleaned up their act a bit by now.
Talking of the 50s - 4th February 1953 saw the end of rationing of sweets and chocolate after more than 10 years. An attempt to remove confectionary rationing in 1949 had to be abolished as demand outstripped supply. During the War everyone was limited to 2 ounces of sweets per week. By the end of the War we were allowed a greedy 6 ounces per week. I remember those fiddly little coupons that were snipped out of your ration book each time you purchased something. What a performance that was. (Maggie has just left a message after reading this to say she wishes they'd bring back sweet rationing so her choccy consumption is controlled.)
Back to the weather thing - the forecast man has just said that this awful weather we're getting is due to the jet stream which prompted me to find out just what the jet stream is - so here's the gen from the BBC website:
The jet stream consists of ribbons of very strong winds which move weather systems around the globe. Jet streams are found 9-16 km above the surface of the Earth, just below the tropopause, and can reach speeds of 200 mph.
How does the jet stream affect the weather? The position of a jet stream varies within the natural fluctuations of the environment. They are caused by the temperature difference between tropical air masses, air masses, and polar air masses. What happens in one part of the world depends on what is happening elsewhere - the atmosphere is a complete environment with numerous connections. Waves or ripples along the jet stream can cause Atlantic depressions to deepen explosively as they are steered towards the UK, so they are very important to meteorologists.
4th February 2014
I think we're having a doldrums spell at the moment - nothing much happening - everyone is quietly going about their business. Carol rang this morning (yes, the talk to me while I drive session) she said there's no highlights to report family-wise. Andy and Jon have teamed up for the duration of their current contract - a formidable pair of plumber brothers - the conversation will be, pipes, boilers, radiators, bacon buttes, and stuff like that.
Just heard the letterbox rattle... hang on.... it's a calendar from my sister Wendy (in Caerphilly) showing fantastic views of the Brecon Beacons and surrounding areas. I've just turned to the February page and in Welsh it's Chwefror. Pronunciation? Haven't a clue but it looks pretty impossible doesn't it. Ooh just noticed Tuesday is Dydd Mawrth. Wendy's note says the calendars were a bargain buy from Welsh Tourist Shop. She says all's well in Wales - Aimee is summoned to St James's Palace to receive an award for training the most Duke of Edinburgh Award (Gold) candidates. Phillip (Marine bandsman) is off to Norway as part of the musical entourage of The First Sea Lord. Looks like Wendy and Phil's two will be hob-knobbing amongst the upper echelons.
There's a cold old wind outside - I'm just back from the writers' meeting. It was quite lively with another new member, Sandra.
Rene has e-mailed and solved the mystery - before retiring to Bilbrook she used to live in Wales and took the trouble to learn the language: February or Chwefror is pronounced cooevroar.
I think we're having a doldrums spell at the moment - nothing much happening - everyone is quietly going about their business. Carol rang this morning (yes, the talk to me while I drive session) she said there's no highlights to report family-wise. Andy and Jon have teamed up for the duration of their current contract - a formidable pair of plumber brothers - the conversation will be, pipes, boilers, radiators, bacon buttes, and stuff like that.
Just heard the letterbox rattle... hang on.... it's a calendar from my sister Wendy (in Caerphilly) showing fantastic views of the Brecon Beacons and surrounding areas. I've just turned to the February page and in Welsh it's Chwefror. Pronunciation? Haven't a clue but it looks pretty impossible doesn't it. Ooh just noticed Tuesday is Dydd Mawrth. Wendy's note says the calendars were a bargain buy from Welsh Tourist Shop. She says all's well in Wales - Aimee is summoned to St James's Palace to receive an award for training the most Duke of Edinburgh Award (Gold) candidates. Phillip (Marine bandsman) is off to Norway as part of the musical entourage of The First Sea Lord. Looks like Wendy and Phil's two will be hob-knobbing amongst the upper echelons.
There's a cold old wind outside - I'm just back from the writers' meeting. It was quite lively with another new member, Sandra.
Rene has e-mailed and solved the mystery - before retiring to Bilbrook she used to live in Wales and took the trouble to learn the language: February or Chwefror is pronounced cooevroar.
3rd February 2014
Monday again, blood test for me at 10.00. Ethel (Bern's Mum) was quite chirpy when he visited her yesterday. He took her some new slippers last week (the ones for swollen feet) and she emphatically rejected them "don't like 'em". Yesterday she showed him her new slippers, she hadn't a clue where they'd come from but she was very pleased with them. Nuff said. I've come to realise that when dementia sets in you're not really aware of what's happening. I asked Carol and James to tell me if and when I've "lost the plot." They both responded with, "you already have". Thing is... do I believe them?
Monday again, blood test for me at 10.00. Ethel (Bern's Mum) was quite chirpy when he visited her yesterday. He took her some new slippers last week (the ones for swollen feet) and she emphatically rejected them "don't like 'em". Yesterday she showed him her new slippers, she hadn't a clue where they'd come from but she was very pleased with them. Nuff said. I've come to realise that when dementia sets in you're not really aware of what's happening. I asked Carol and James to tell me if and when I've "lost the plot." They both responded with, "you already have". Thing is... do I believe them?
I've just been out to peg some washing and saw three magpies. Superstition kicked in (and I claim that I'm not superstitious) so what is it about magpies that has us chanting rhymes, doffing hats, and regarding them with caution? I've looked at a few websites and the consensus is that the various rituals on sighting a magpie differ from region to region. There's oodles of folklore and legend regarding magpies throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, Sweden, Germany, Italy, France, Norway, Finland, and in N.E. China they are held sacred. Even the Ancient Romans had their magpie moments. Magpies get a bad press and many people hate them. I think they're rather stately - have you watched one in flight? Aerodynamically sound - they fly like a dart. General argument is that they kill the small song birds. All members of the crow family are predators, but that's nature. I looked on the RSPB website to see if they blame magpies for the declining numbers of songbirds - here's a snippet of what they had to say: "...The study found that
songbird numbers were no different in places where there were many magpies from
where there are few. It found no evidence that increased numbers of magpies
have caused declines in songbirds and confirms that populations of prey species
are not determined by the numbers of their predators. Availability of food and
suitable nesting sites are probably the main factors limiting songbird
populations."
2nd February 2014
Did you see the Severn Bore on this morning's TV news? Today's bore is rated 5-Star (top of the scale is 6-Star) so it was one worth watching - the surfers and kayaks were out in force. The bore happens frequently but at times of certain tidal conditions there's an extra big one. The amazing thing is that it is travelling against the flow of the river - the generated power must be incalculable - quite a phenomenon. The Severn Bore is one of the biggest in the world. if you met a "talk-your-head-off" person at a pub in Bridgnorth I suppose you could call them a Severn Bore too.
Did you see the Severn Bore on this morning's TV news? Today's bore is rated 5-Star (top of the scale is 6-Star) so it was one worth watching - the surfers and kayaks were out in force. The bore happens frequently but at times of certain tidal conditions there's an extra big one. The amazing thing is that it is travelling against the flow of the river - the generated power must be incalculable - quite a phenomenon. The Severn Bore is one of the biggest in the world. if you met a "talk-your-head-off" person at a pub in Bridgnorth I suppose you could call them a Severn Bore too.
Imbolc (Pagan/Celtic) – Candlemass (Christian) – St Brigid (or Bridget also called St Bride)
whose identity is associated with that of a Celtic goddess, all claim
February 2nd to be their day - it seems the facts have become confused through the
mists of time. Imbolc marks a
cross quarter point in the wheel of the year, i.e. halfway between the Winter
Solstice and the Spring Equinox. On
doing a bit of research on this subject I find that Christian and Pagan rituals
are very similar. For this festival both
disciplines feature the lighting of candles, and making Brigid crosses. Another example of how the old Pagan ways and
the Christian religions overlap with their rituals and ceremonies blurring at
the edges.
On this day in the USA they have to contend with Groundhog Day – should the groundhog (woodchuck) emerge from hibernation today to check the weather: if it is dull or wet he stays up and about because winter will soon be over, but if he can see his own shadow (sunny and dry) he goes back to his burrow to sleep for another six weeks.
In summary one could say there's a lot been packed into February 2nd.
On this day in the USA they have to contend with Groundhog Day – should the groundhog (woodchuck) emerge from hibernation today to check the weather: if it is dull or wet he stays up and about because winter will soon be over, but if he can see his own shadow (sunny and dry) he goes back to his burrow to sleep for another six weeks.
In summary one could say there's a lot been packed into February 2nd.
1st February 2014
It's only a short month - once we get this one out of the way and we can think about spring. Seems like they were a bit haphazard with their spelling of February in the old days. In Shakespeare's time this month was called Feverell. By the time Isaac Newton was on the scene it was known as Februeer. I wonder why and when it became February.
We've just been to the village hall to see the exhibition of our Thursday group's art work. Pauline and Roland and Jose and Claude were there on the same mission. Had an e-mail from Denise saying she'd visited and another from Hilary saying she and Mac had been to the exhibition and was chuffed to see her work 'hung'. Thanks to Roland for sorting us out.
It's only a short month - once we get this one out of the way and we can think about spring. Seems like they were a bit haphazard with their spelling of February in the old days. In Shakespeare's time this month was called Feverell. By the time Isaac Newton was on the scene it was known as Februeer. I wonder why and when it became February.
We've just been to the village hall to see the exhibition of our Thursday group's art work. Pauline and Roland and Jose and Claude were there on the same mission. Had an e-mail from Denise saying she'd visited and another from Hilary saying she and Mac had been to the exhibition and was chuffed to see her work 'hung'. Thanks to Roland for sorting us out.
31st January 2014
It's an unsettled day isn't it - so wet and windy. The football world is buzzing with last minute shuffles as the transfer window slams shut - I won't mention money (although the very thought prompts a rant) but who am I to begrudge the payment of obscene amounts of money to blokes who kick a ball around. The poor folk in the south and west who are flooded have to face more bad weather to add to their agony. I'm fidgeting and unable to sit still for five minutes because my back hurts. I'd best shut up before I find something else to moan about.
Bern says he's seen some new lambs today - aaaah (maybe that should be baaaah) - I think they're the cutest things.
It's an unsettled day isn't it - so wet and windy. The football world is buzzing with last minute shuffles as the transfer window slams shut - I won't mention money (although the very thought prompts a rant) but who am I to begrudge the payment of obscene amounts of money to blokes who kick a ball around. The poor folk in the south and west who are flooded have to face more bad weather to add to their agony. I'm fidgeting and unable to sit still for five minutes because my back hurts. I'd best shut up before I find something else to moan about.
Bern says he's seen some new lambs today - aaaah (maybe that should be baaaah) - I think they're the cutest things.
Today is Chinese New Year - we've trotted into the year of the horse. I've looked up my Chinese sign and I'm a dragon. Scary or what? There's loads of stuff online - so gallop off and do a quick Google search to find out what the Chinese Fates have in store. Another horrific thought - I'm a scorpion in our system - a Scorpio with dragon inclinations sounds pretty lethal. Good job I'm not really into horoscopes or I'd frighten myself to death.
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30th January 2014
I'll be back for a chat later - just off to Thursday art class now. Hate to mention it, but I've just spotted a few flakes of white stuff floating down, hope we're not in for a whiteout.
Finished my pen and wash drawing - Susan and Jo did the same still life in charcoal. Roland will be hanging our exhibition pictures tomorrow (Codsall Village Hall) if anyone is tempted to browse. Other groups are displaying work but I'm unsure of details. The exhibition day is Saturday and our art work may remain in the entrance hallway for a couple of weeks.
I'll be back for a chat later - just off to Thursday art class now. Hate to mention it, but I've just spotted a few flakes of white stuff floating down, hope we're not in for a whiteout.
Finished my pen and wash drawing - Susan and Jo did the same still life in charcoal. Roland will be hanging our exhibition pictures tomorrow (Codsall Village Hall) if anyone is tempted to browse. Other groups are displaying work but I'm unsure of details. The exhibition day is Saturday and our art work may remain in the entrance hallway for a couple of weeks.
28th January 2014
Not much to say today - I felt a bit under the weather so haven't done a flipping thing except hibernate.
Not much to say today - I felt a bit under the weather so haven't done a flipping thing except hibernate.
27th January 2014
I had a smashing surprise this morning - I found a message here from Jim Fraser - he's finally landed in these hallowed pages of daily drivel. They're the Frasers I mentioned yesterday. Jim was Bern's best mate in the Navy and we haven't seen him for forty plus years - he's also the guy our James (aka Jay) was named after.
Carol's usual 'talk to me while I drive to work' phone call this morning - we raked over the weekend's events and our Friday night bash at Andy and Raj's then made plans to meet up at Jay and Les's on Wednesday for a birthday visit to the man of the moment.
Time for another thoughtful moment - today is Holocaust Memorial Day 2014 – this year the theme is JOURNEYS
"...on the following day the Jews would be leaving. All the Jews, without exception. Even the children, even the old, even the ill. Our destination? Nobody knew." (Primo Levi, Holocaust survivor and author )
Read more at http://www.hmd.org.uk
The terrible thing is, I spare a thought, dwell on the tragedy and atrocities of war and realise it still goes on. Why?
I had a smashing surprise this morning - I found a message here from Jim Fraser - he's finally landed in these hallowed pages of daily drivel. They're the Frasers I mentioned yesterday. Jim was Bern's best mate in the Navy and we haven't seen him for forty plus years - he's also the guy our James (aka Jay) was named after.
Carol's usual 'talk to me while I drive to work' phone call this morning - we raked over the weekend's events and our Friday night bash at Andy and Raj's then made plans to meet up at Jay and Les's on Wednesday for a birthday visit to the man of the moment.
Time for another thoughtful moment - today is Holocaust Memorial Day 2014 – this year the theme is JOURNEYS
"...on the following day the Jews would be leaving. All the Jews, without exception. Even the children, even the old, even the ill. Our destination? Nobody knew." (Primo Levi, Holocaust survivor and author )
Read more at http://www.hmd.org.uk
The terrible thing is, I spare a thought, dwell on the tragedy and atrocities of war and realise it still goes on. Why?
26th January 2014
It's Australia Day today - this has me thinking of friends and family over there enjoying a public holiday in the sunshine (enough to make us green with envy considering the wet blustery day we have here). I think many of us have people over there: our friends the Harrisons, the Frasers, Lesley's Aunt and family, Anne's brother and family, and I'm sure there must be many more. Here's wishing them all a great day as we freeze and trudge round in our wellies and woollies and await the snow that's forecast for later in the week. The holiday is to commemorate the first colony of European settlers at Port Jackson (now Sydney) on 26th January 1788. The immigrants, mainly convicts, travelled from England in a fleet of eleven ships under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip - he subsequently became the founder and first governor of New South Wales.
In recent years Jay and Les, Ian, and then Andy have travelled round Australia and loved it.
Had a text from Carol last night to say they'd bumped into Paul and Caroline in the pub - so hi you guys in Ditton Priors (my cousins, you know how it is, we only see each other at weddings and funerals) it's good to get news of them and know they're still up and running.
It's Australia Day today - this has me thinking of friends and family over there enjoying a public holiday in the sunshine (enough to make us green with envy considering the wet blustery day we have here). I think many of us have people over there: our friends the Harrisons, the Frasers, Lesley's Aunt and family, Anne's brother and family, and I'm sure there must be many more. Here's wishing them all a great day as we freeze and trudge round in our wellies and woollies and await the snow that's forecast for later in the week. The holiday is to commemorate the first colony of European settlers at Port Jackson (now Sydney) on 26th January 1788. The immigrants, mainly convicts, travelled from England in a fleet of eleven ships under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip - he subsequently became the founder and first governor of New South Wales.
In recent years Jay and Les, Ian, and then Andy have travelled round Australia and loved it.
Had a text from Carol last night to say they'd bumped into Paul and Caroline in the pub - so hi you guys in Ditton Priors (my cousins, you know how it is, we only see each other at weddings and funerals) it's good to get news of them and know they're still up and running.
25th January 2014
We had a happy gathering with Andy and Raj - in attendance were Jay and Les, Ian and Jenny, Carol, Gary and Jon, Karen and Emma, Bern and yours truly. We shared a big pot of chilli, roasted veg, rice, chicken joints, dips and nibbles, and a selection of naughty puddings made by Karen and Carol. Jenny told us about the strange anonymous package that had been delivered to their house - a sort of woolly hat with holes in the side. Ian had solved the mystery for her (it was he who'd asked me to knit a tea cosy as a surprise for Jenny because she'd seen Carol's and liked it) so no Jen, it's not for your head with holes for your ears, it's for your teapot! Have to tell you (and I'm out of breath just contemplating it) Jenny's self-inflicted training for a half-marathon is awe inspiring. She's now running twelve miles with ease and insists that she enjoys it - I take my tea-cosy, I mean hat, off to you Jenny. Talking of self-inflicted: Jon arrived a bit late, he'd been for a visit to the tattooist for further work on his arm in the elbow area where there's very little flesh between the outside world and the bone. It looked pretty red and painful when he came in with it all wrapped up in cling film (don't ask because I don't know but apparently that's what they do) - it looked like a big salami in a carrier bag. I remember my mother saying "pride must take a pinch" when she was brushing my hair and I complained - I put up with her untangling of my pigtails but I don't think I've enough pride to manage a tattoo.
We had a happy gathering with Andy and Raj - in attendance were Jay and Les, Ian and Jenny, Carol, Gary and Jon, Karen and Emma, Bern and yours truly. We shared a big pot of chilli, roasted veg, rice, chicken joints, dips and nibbles, and a selection of naughty puddings made by Karen and Carol. Jenny told us about the strange anonymous package that had been delivered to their house - a sort of woolly hat with holes in the side. Ian had solved the mystery for her (it was he who'd asked me to knit a tea cosy as a surprise for Jenny because she'd seen Carol's and liked it) so no Jen, it's not for your head with holes for your ears, it's for your teapot! Have to tell you (and I'm out of breath just contemplating it) Jenny's self-inflicted training for a half-marathon is awe inspiring. She's now running twelve miles with ease and insists that she enjoys it - I take my tea-cosy, I mean hat, off to you Jenny. Talking of self-inflicted: Jon arrived a bit late, he'd been for a visit to the tattooist for further work on his arm in the elbow area where there's very little flesh between the outside world and the bone. It looked pretty red and painful when he came in with it all wrapped up in cling film (don't ask because I don't know but apparently that's what they do) - it looked like a big salami in a carrier bag. I remember my mother saying "pride must take a pinch" when she was brushing my hair and I complained - I put up with her untangling of my pigtails but I don't think I've enough pride to manage a tattoo.
Oops, I almost forgot to say enjoy Burns Night if you're celebrating. Enjoy your haggis. I'll not be partaking of its oaty groaty goodness - there's something about a haggis that makes me think of boiled hamster - maybe it's the shape, a dun coloured dollop bound and gagged at both ends, bursting at the seams ready to spill out like road kill. Just one of life's little pleasures that doesn't end up on my plate. (apologies to all my Scottish friends - am I absolved if I tell you I eat porridge?)
24th January 2014
Hi everyone - as I log in I'm wondering, what shall we prattle about today? Most days something pops into my head, here's today's bit of useless information. Robert Baden-Powell (1857-1941) organized England's first Boy Scout troop on this day in 1908. This little fact set me wondering about the dib-dib-dib, dob-dob-dob business that Eric Morecambe always mentioned when the subject of Scouts came up. I've done a bit of cyber surfing and found the answer: it's a campfire chant and is actually "dyb-dyb-dyb" meaning "do your best" and the reply chant of "dob-dob-dob" means "done our best". On that note of wholesomeness, stiff upper lips and integrity, I'll mention that today is also the date when James W Marshall discovered gold at Sutters Mill in California, sending hundreds of shovel-waving hopefuls stampeding into them thar hills in the mighty Gold Rush of 1849. Are you yawning yet?
Hi everyone - as I log in I'm wondering, what shall we prattle about today? Most days something pops into my head, here's today's bit of useless information. Robert Baden-Powell (1857-1941) organized England's first Boy Scout troop on this day in 1908. This little fact set me wondering about the dib-dib-dib, dob-dob-dob business that Eric Morecambe always mentioned when the subject of Scouts came up. I've done a bit of cyber surfing and found the answer: it's a campfire chant and is actually "dyb-dyb-dyb" meaning "do your best" and the reply chant of "dob-dob-dob" means "done our best". On that note of wholesomeness, stiff upper lips and integrity, I'll mention that today is also the date when James W Marshall discovered gold at Sutters Mill in California, sending hundreds of shovel-waving hopefuls stampeding into them thar hills in the mighty Gold Rush of 1849. Are you yawning yet?
23rd January 2014
I'm late checking in today - didn't get chance to visit before rushing off to art class. Roland set up a still life which three of us tackled - two used charcoal and I had a bash with pen and ink and then you wash it with clear water. I think the correct term is line and wash or pen and wash. Despite my three hour struggle the result so far is definitely unworthy of showcasing here. I found it a difficult subject: sports bag, with a rolled up towel and trainer shoe sticking out of the top, and swimming goggles and a bottle of shampoo and the other trainer alongside. However, I shall continue with it. Anyway, I've always been rubbish at swimming. Maggie's been working with watercolour pencils very successfully - she's doing a close-up of ballet shoes. (Maggie comes to writers' group as well so our paths cross frequently).
A text from Ian says Jenny is happy with the tea cosy - Bern popped it through their Lichfield letterbox this morning. Had a brief rummage in the garden this afternoon - cleared up more leaves, snipped at this and that, and then dozed off on the sofa afterwards with the telly watching me.
I'm late checking in today - didn't get chance to visit before rushing off to art class. Roland set up a still life which three of us tackled - two used charcoal and I had a bash with pen and ink and then you wash it with clear water. I think the correct term is line and wash or pen and wash. Despite my three hour struggle the result so far is definitely unworthy of showcasing here. I found it a difficult subject: sports bag, with a rolled up towel and trainer shoe sticking out of the top, and swimming goggles and a bottle of shampoo and the other trainer alongside. However, I shall continue with it. Anyway, I've always been rubbish at swimming. Maggie's been working with watercolour pencils very successfully - she's doing a close-up of ballet shoes. (Maggie comes to writers' group as well so our paths cross frequently).
A text from Ian says Jenny is happy with the tea cosy - Bern popped it through their Lichfield letterbox this morning. Had a brief rummage in the garden this afternoon - cleared up more leaves, snipped at this and that, and then dozed off on the sofa afterwards with the telly watching me.
22nd January 2014
Roy was here for some typing this morning. Although he earns a crust with his photography business his true forte is that of professional musician - primarily jazz guitar. All interesting stuff. http://www.roysainsbury.com I'm just going to e-mail Peggy in Australia - I expect they're all feeling a bit livelier now the temperature has subsided. |
It's St Vincent's feast day today - take heed of this traditional rhyme
Remember on St Vincent's Day If the sun his beams display, Be sure to mark the transient beam, Which through the casement sheds a gleam, For 'tis a token bright and clear Of prosperous weather all the year If you can make sense of that I reckon you have the long range weather forecast. |
The politicians are making noises about the bank rate - target is to get the unemployed figure down to around 7% - and then they'll consider increasing the returns on our savings. Fingers crossed.
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21st January 2014
If you indulged in yesterday's dumb cake, I hope you're not feeling poorly. Carol rang this morning - nothing untoward going on in Shrewsbury other than frost and fog - she said the boys had crept back to visit the nest on Saturday for a taste of home. I've had another call for a tea cosy - it's in the pipeline.
<- THE HOMING PIGEONS
Pecking order: No 1 Ian (left) No 2 Andy (right) No 3 Jon (centre)
Writers' meeting today - no homework prepared (gulp!). A good meeting with a good attendance and another new member joined us - welcome Simon.
Lots of signs to prove that things are waking up again - Ann has left a message to say they have an anemone in bloom and she's seen catkins in the hedgerows - I saw some today too. We have a few primroses in flower and a witch-hazel shrub is showing off its wiry yellow blooms.
If you indulged in yesterday's dumb cake, I hope you're not feeling poorly. Carol rang this morning - nothing untoward going on in Shrewsbury other than frost and fog - she said the boys had crept back to visit the nest on Saturday for a taste of home. I've had another call for a tea cosy - it's in the pipeline.
<- THE HOMING PIGEONS
Pecking order: No 1 Ian (left) No 2 Andy (right) No 3 Jon (centre)
Writers' meeting today - no homework prepared (gulp!). A good meeting with a good attendance and another new member joined us - welcome Simon.
Lots of signs to prove that things are waking up again - Ann has left a message to say they have an anemone in bloom and she's seen catkins in the hedgerows - I saw some today too. We have a few primroses in flower and a witch-hazel shrub is showing off its wiry yellow blooms.
20th January 2014
Lovely sunshine again - it tempted me outside to look round the garden and I found a small clump of crocuses all ready to open. I also found a poor dead blackbird under the holly tree - don't know whether he was old and just fell off his perch or if a cat had got him.
It's St Agnes' Eve today - she's the patron saint of virgins - I'd like to bet she's not awfully busy these days. St Agnes' Eve is more thought of than the actual feast day itself. It is the night on which an unmarried woman can dream of her future husband providing certain rituals are performed. Among the things listed is walking up the stairs backwards and eating a portion of dumb cake. They deserved a portion of dumb cake if they were daft enough to do it. There are other rituals and one has something to do with sticking pins on one's sleeve, fasting and remaining totally silent for a day, but it's beyond belief that people used to fall for this superstitious stuff. The "Eve of St Agnes", Keats' epic poem (42 x 9-line stanzas) has the lines "...They told her how, upon St Agnes' Eve, Young virgins might have visions of delight,..."
I've looked into this dumb cake business a bit further. Seems like it was quite the thing to do in times gone by. I used this website to discover what goes into a dumb cake. http://oxfordindex.oup.com. Here's what it had to say...
"...first recorded mention in the 1680s. An unvarying characteristic is that the process to be undergone is complex and difficult to achieve successfully. In most cases, the making of the cake must be a joint effort by several people, usually young women but not exclusively so. Other recurring motifs are the use of a high proportion of salt, the scratching of initials on the pieces, and sometimes the placing of the cake under the pillow. Earlier recipes for the cake itself are generally more testing to the participants' resolve, including, apart from the salt, soot and even urine. Some mention the measuring of the ingredients in thimbles or egg-shells, presumably to make the cakes easier to eat. The times when this ceremony are usually reported are those traditional to love divination: midsummer, St Agnes's Eve, and Halloween, and Christmas Eve..."
I think they'd have been more likely to hallucinate rather than enjoy sweet dreams and "visions of delight" after eating such a toxic bedtime snack.
I made a cake this morning - a Victoria sponge - only addition is raspberry jam. Haven't scratched my initials in it nor will a slice be going under my pillow - I don't do jiggery-pokery.
Lovely sunshine again - it tempted me outside to look round the garden and I found a small clump of crocuses all ready to open. I also found a poor dead blackbird under the holly tree - don't know whether he was old and just fell off his perch or if a cat had got him.
It's St Agnes' Eve today - she's the patron saint of virgins - I'd like to bet she's not awfully busy these days. St Agnes' Eve is more thought of than the actual feast day itself. It is the night on which an unmarried woman can dream of her future husband providing certain rituals are performed. Among the things listed is walking up the stairs backwards and eating a portion of dumb cake. They deserved a portion of dumb cake if they were daft enough to do it. There are other rituals and one has something to do with sticking pins on one's sleeve, fasting and remaining totally silent for a day, but it's beyond belief that people used to fall for this superstitious stuff. The "Eve of St Agnes", Keats' epic poem (42 x 9-line stanzas) has the lines "...They told her how, upon St Agnes' Eve, Young virgins might have visions of delight,..."
I've looked into this dumb cake business a bit further. Seems like it was quite the thing to do in times gone by. I used this website to discover what goes into a dumb cake. http://oxfordindex.oup.com. Here's what it had to say...
"...first recorded mention in the 1680s. An unvarying characteristic is that the process to be undergone is complex and difficult to achieve successfully. In most cases, the making of the cake must be a joint effort by several people, usually young women but not exclusively so. Other recurring motifs are the use of a high proportion of salt, the scratching of initials on the pieces, and sometimes the placing of the cake under the pillow. Earlier recipes for the cake itself are generally more testing to the participants' resolve, including, apart from the salt, soot and even urine. Some mention the measuring of the ingredients in thimbles or egg-shells, presumably to make the cakes easier to eat. The times when this ceremony are usually reported are those traditional to love divination: midsummer, St Agnes's Eve, and Halloween, and Christmas Eve..."
I think they'd have been more likely to hallucinate rather than enjoy sweet dreams and "visions of delight" after eating such a toxic bedtime snack.
I made a cake this morning - a Victoria sponge - only addition is raspberry jam. Haven't scratched my initials in it nor will a slice be going under my pillow - I don't do jiggery-pokery.
19th January 2014
Last night's party was great. Lots of fancy frocks and weird and wonderful masks - and we enjoyed the catch up on current music trends - real funky stuff - now we know what the young folks dance to these days. Denise and Jack were there and we met loads of new people - friends and relatives of Alistair, Alan and Dominic. A memorable evening. More pics here (link)
Had an hour in town this afternoon mooching round House of Fraser sale - Bern bought a pair of navy cords and I settled for blue nail polish (another defiant moment in my anti-aging anti-beigeing campaign). Went on to Pattingham for a cup of tea with Jay and Les and to deliver the tea cosy - I'd forgotten to hand it over when they called the other day.
Last night's party was great. Lots of fancy frocks and weird and wonderful masks - and we enjoyed the catch up on current music trends - real funky stuff - now we know what the young folks dance to these days. Denise and Jack were there and we met loads of new people - friends and relatives of Alistair, Alan and Dominic. A memorable evening. More pics here (link)
Had an hour in town this afternoon mooching round House of Fraser sale - Bern bought a pair of navy cords and I settled for blue nail polish (another defiant moment in my anti-aging anti-beigeing campaign). Went on to Pattingham for a cup of tea with Jay and Les and to deliver the tea cosy - I'd forgotten to hand it over when they called the other day.
18th January 2014
Tempus fugit - and how! Can't believe it's Saturday again and I've frittered away another week. If and when I write a book it's title will be "How To Do Nothing Without Even Trying" It's sequel will be "Done Nothing and Didn't Notice".
We've just accomplished our usual supermarket dash, bought nothing of interest; we ate crisps on the way home but mine were the low-fat version, Bern sticks with the naughty sort. Jay came for a cup of tea and a bun this afternoon. Big catch up chat and footy talk - Wolves 3rd in their league. Les arrived too just as he was about to leave - she's working all weekend at the Monarch Airlines site in Birmingham.
Tempus fugit - and how! Can't believe it's Saturday again and I've frittered away another week. If and when I write a book it's title will be "How To Do Nothing Without Even Trying" It's sequel will be "Done Nothing and Didn't Notice".
We've just accomplished our usual supermarket dash, bought nothing of interest; we ate crisps on the way home but mine were the low-fat version, Bern sticks with the naughty sort. Jay came for a cup of tea and a bun this afternoon. Big catch up chat and footy talk - Wolves 3rd in their league. Les arrived too just as he was about to leave - she's working all weekend at the Monarch Airlines site in Birmingham.
We're going to a masquerade party tonight - so exciting. It's Alistair's 30th birthday "do" at the Goldthorn Hotel. Our masks are poised and ready to go - here we are having a "try-on" at home so that Carol could have a good laugh. (Repeated the exercise this afternoon so that Jay could have a good laugh). The snag is, we have to remove our specs to wear them so we'll be blundering round like a couple of short-sighted bank robbers.
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17th January 2014
St Antony's day - he's the patron saint of domestic animals, especially pigs. I wonder why pigs, or anything for that matter, need a patron saint. By the time someone gets to be a saint they're usually dead so how can they help anyone? Anyway, seeing as pigs are St Antony's particular forte I found a true story about some Tamworth pigs (they're the gingery ones) and it all happened on January 17th in Malmesbury, Wiltshire. Two little Tamworth's were on their way to be slaughtered and they escaped. They were truly feisty and gave their followers a right old run-around and were on the loose for a couple of days. They caused such a hoo-ha that the media got involved and of course loads of folk took up their cause - the Daily Mail put up some dosh and literally saved their bacon. They lived for a further 14 happy years in their new home - perhaps St Antony was on their case after all |
Following their adventure the escapees were named Butch and Sundance and lived out their days on a Farm for rare breeds in Kent
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Carol popped in after work this evening - she was en route to visit her friend Gerry for a girly evening at Gerry's place. James, Gerry's son, was cooking their supper as a farewell gesture before he goes back to university in France. Bon Voyage to Gerry's James.
16th January 2014
Good morning everyone - can't stop now as it's art class again - back later. We all have to take in some of our work - Roland is organising an exhibition as part of the Village Hall Celebration for it's 50th year - they want all the groups that use the hall to put on a bit of a show to demonstrate what goes on there. The thing is, we'll be able to say we've "been hung" albeit not at the Mall Gallery or the Royal Academy, but at Codsall Village Hall with Roland as our curator. In the meantime we have to worry about Andy Murray having to play in the toturous Australian temperatures. I'm inclined to think athletes having to perform in such extremes of heat is nonsensical.
Good morning everyone - can't stop now as it's art class again - back later. We all have to take in some of our work - Roland is organising an exhibition as part of the Village Hall Celebration for it's 50th year - they want all the groups that use the hall to put on a bit of a show to demonstrate what goes on there. The thing is, we'll be able to say we've "been hung" albeit not at the Mall Gallery or the Royal Academy, but at Codsall Village Hall with Roland as our curator. In the meantime we have to worry about Andy Murray having to play in the toturous Australian temperatures. I'm inclined to think athletes having to perform in such extremes of heat is nonsensical.
15th January 2014
I was up a bit earlier this morning - Roy is coming at 9.30 for some typing. It's hair cut day too so I'll be off to the hairdresser later - not my favourite thing to do. I have Scary-Mary hair - it never behaves and I can't do a thing with it and I've long given up even trying. It gets cut - it gets washed - and then it's left to its own devices. What's the point of obsessing about one's hair? I've come to the conclusion that if people judge me by how I look and the size of this and that then they're so shallow I don't really need to know them. I'm a bit WYSIWYG - pronounced whizzy-wig - what you see is what you get I'm afraid.
James is back in home territory having felt a few collars - Carol rang this morning and all's well on the Shrewsbury front. She thinks Andrew and Rajini are considering an autumn wedding - that'll be a bit of excitement to look forward to. Haven't yet heard how Lesley got on with Ant and Dec.
Forgot to mention it yesterday - when I arrived at the writers' meeting the general pre-meeting chit-chat was about Zentangle. I reckon as well as being addictive, it's infectious, they're all at it.
I was up a bit earlier this morning - Roy is coming at 9.30 for some typing. It's hair cut day too so I'll be off to the hairdresser later - not my favourite thing to do. I have Scary-Mary hair - it never behaves and I can't do a thing with it and I've long given up even trying. It gets cut - it gets washed - and then it's left to its own devices. What's the point of obsessing about one's hair? I've come to the conclusion that if people judge me by how I look and the size of this and that then they're so shallow I don't really need to know them. I'm a bit WYSIWYG - pronounced whizzy-wig - what you see is what you get I'm afraid.
James is back in home territory having felt a few collars - Carol rang this morning and all's well on the Shrewsbury front. She thinks Andrew and Rajini are considering an autumn wedding - that'll be a bit of excitement to look forward to. Haven't yet heard how Lesley got on with Ant and Dec.
Forgot to mention it yesterday - when I arrived at the writers' meeting the general pre-meeting chit-chat was about Zentangle. I reckon as well as being addictive, it's infectious, they're all at it.
14th January 2014
Sunshine again (aren't we lucky) and the bedclothes are giddying round in the washing machine. Carol's tea cosy is completed and despatched and she's left a message here that says "Tea cosy a perfect fit, transformed an old pot into the darling of the worktop. Thank you x" She's also sent a picture to my phone but I've lost the bit of kit that connects it to the computer. I rang Lesley last night as we haven't caught up with them lately. Jay was on a work mission 'oop north' - he'll be back today. Les is in for a hectic day - she's doing a job at the Monarch airlines' site in Birmingham - she's supervising meals for workers and a huge film crew accompanying Ant and Dec - Les and her staff had to be there really early as they are contracted to do breakfast as well - she told me one chap was turning in at 5.00 this morning to get things started. According to my book it's too cold and wintery for that sort of commitment.
I could hold my head up in the meeting today - I managed to do my homework - not brilliant but it's done. The brief was to write a monologue in the voice of a young person accompanying a grandparent on a hospital appointment. There were some good pieces read and someone had the brilliant idea of making the young person the patient. We'd all automatically made the old person the patient. I've put mine on the writing page if you want to have a look. (link)
Sunshine again (aren't we lucky) and the bedclothes are giddying round in the washing machine. Carol's tea cosy is completed and despatched and she's left a message here that says "Tea cosy a perfect fit, transformed an old pot into the darling of the worktop. Thank you x" She's also sent a picture to my phone but I've lost the bit of kit that connects it to the computer. I rang Lesley last night as we haven't caught up with them lately. Jay was on a work mission 'oop north' - he'll be back today. Les is in for a hectic day - she's doing a job at the Monarch airlines' site in Birmingham - she's supervising meals for workers and a huge film crew accompanying Ant and Dec - Les and her staff had to be there really early as they are contracted to do breakfast as well - she told me one chap was turning in at 5.00 this morning to get things started. According to my book it's too cold and wintery for that sort of commitment.
I could hold my head up in the meeting today - I managed to do my homework - not brilliant but it's done. The brief was to write a monologue in the voice of a young person accompanying a grandparent on a hospital appointment. There were some good pieces read and someone had the brilliant idea of making the young person the patient. We'd all automatically made the old person the patient. I've put mine on the writing page if you want to have a look. (link)
13th January 2014
St Hilary's Day - I've a friend called Hilary whose birthday is today, now we know why she is so-named. Happy Birthday Hilary in Bath (not to be confused with my Codsall friend Hilary). January 13th has earned a reputation for being the coldest day of the year. One of the most severest winters in history (1205) began around the 13th - the Thames froze over and ale and wine turned to solid ice - they had to sell it by weight - I would think the punters lost out on that deal. I'll have to look into the science. Is a pint of a given liquid different in weight from a pint of the same stuff in frozen state? Anyone know? That big freeze went on until 20th March. Temperatures plummeted in similar fashion in 1086, 1684, 1881, 1928, 1933, 1940 (Thames froze for the first time since 1881), 1947 (I remember that one) 1952, 1963 (coldest since the 1800s) and 1979. All in all January has proved to be a chilly month on more than one occasion. This unkind weather happens around mid-January and folk may have thought St Hilary had something to do with it so her day takes the blame.
St Hilary's Day - I've a friend called Hilary whose birthday is today, now we know why she is so-named. Happy Birthday Hilary in Bath (not to be confused with my Codsall friend Hilary). January 13th has earned a reputation for being the coldest day of the year. One of the most severest winters in history (1205) began around the 13th - the Thames froze over and ale and wine turned to solid ice - they had to sell it by weight - I would think the punters lost out on that deal. I'll have to look into the science. Is a pint of a given liquid different in weight from a pint of the same stuff in frozen state? Anyone know? That big freeze went on until 20th March. Temperatures plummeted in similar fashion in 1086, 1684, 1881, 1928, 1933, 1940 (Thames froze for the first time since 1881), 1947 (I remember that one) 1952, 1963 (coldest since the 1800s) and 1979. All in all January has proved to be a chilly month on more than one occasion. This unkind weather happens around mid-January and folk may have thought St Hilary had something to do with it so her day takes the blame.
12th January 2014
Another sparkly morning - sorry I didn't finish the Zen thing yesterday evening. I got involved with Carol's tea cosy - a good job too as I received a text message with a picture of her teapot and the caption "I'm c-c-c-c-c-cold". You just have to larf. Then I set about further research on the mysteries of Zentangle. It seems that you just start doodling then intuitively 'grow' your doodle into exotic patterns that sort of meander in an intricate but random manner. Exponents claim that it is meditative - I suppose it is in a way as you get lost in its fiddliness and time slips by as you get immersed. It's usually done on a paper 'tile' about 4.5 x 4.5 inches but of course you can go as big as you like and wherever your imagination takes you. Last night (with Bern trying to sleep) I climbed into bed with my little square sketch book and some fine pens and had a go - here's my first effort. You'll find excellent examples on the Internet if you Google. |
So this is Zentangle and there's loads of other styles of drawing (or mark-making as art teachers call it) to investigate such as Mandala, Manga, Rangoli etc. but I'll leave those for another day.
Website explaining all is at http://www.chelseakennedyczt.wordpress.com |
10th January 2014
A frosty one this morning - brrr I'm convinced I'm going bonkers - I thought my mouth had shrunk and then found I was eating Shredded Wheat with a tablespoon rather than a desert spoon. I despair! Lots of birds about this morning fighting for the fat balls and I notice that the tulips I planted in a tub last autumn are peeping through. I've set myself a strange task this morning - we have some fitted sheets that don't fit well so I'm going to have a go at doing something to the corners to make them behave. At the moment I have a sheet stretched out on the dining room table with the pile of books stuffed into one corner. I've selected the books to match the depth of the mattress so I can ascertain what's wrong. Isn't this fun? - then I can do 'something' to all the corners to make the sheets fit properly. I bet you're ready for a big yawn now.
I've just picked up a message from the Codsall Writers' website: it's about a writing competition with all proceeds going to aid the recovery of injured service personnel. Aspiring writers/poets here's where you can find more info: www.wordsforthewounded.blogspot.co.uk You can also see Margaret Graham's message on the welcome page at www.codsallwriters.weebly.com (left click on either of these website addresses here and the link will come up).
A frosty one this morning - brrr I'm convinced I'm going bonkers - I thought my mouth had shrunk and then found I was eating Shredded Wheat with a tablespoon rather than a desert spoon. I despair! Lots of birds about this morning fighting for the fat balls and I notice that the tulips I planted in a tub last autumn are peeping through. I've set myself a strange task this morning - we have some fitted sheets that don't fit well so I'm going to have a go at doing something to the corners to make them behave. At the moment I have a sheet stretched out on the dining room table with the pile of books stuffed into one corner. I've selected the books to match the depth of the mattress so I can ascertain what's wrong. Isn't this fun? - then I can do 'something' to all the corners to make the sheets fit properly. I bet you're ready for a big yawn now.
I've just picked up a message from the Codsall Writers' website: it's about a writing competition with all proceeds going to aid the recovery of injured service personnel. Aspiring writers/poets here's where you can find more info: www.wordsforthewounded.blogspot.co.uk You can also see Margaret Graham's message on the welcome page at www.codsallwriters.weebly.com (left click on either of these website addresses here and the link will come up).
In response to the recent call for a tea cosy - here's tea cosy marque 1 - the prototype. The pattern (a very simple one) is on a Kindle app on my iPad downloaded from Amazon - modern technology takes on an old-fashioned construction method. The item is produced using redundant wool remnants. I'll be having a progress meeting with Jay and Les to discuss adjustments and refinements and all matters ergonomic. We shall also be testing thermal quality taking into account heat retention efficiency.
8th January 2014
Happy birthday to two Capricorns - Andy (no 2 grandson) and Trudie (sister-in-law). I found a couple of snowdrops in bud this morning - dare we think about spring? I think everyone loves the brave little snowdrop.
Had a strange request from Jay and Les - they fancy an old-fashioned knitted tea cosy so I'm doing one for them. On consulting the Internet and the Codsall knitting shop it appears these things are currently on trend - don't you just hate that expression 'on trend' seems to be a current buzz word. There's patterns available for tea cosies in every guise - who'd have thought that 2014 would bring tea cosy haute couture. I'd have thought they were as naff as a knitted toilet roll cover. Still, you don't need to keep your toilet rolls warm but I guess teapots are a different kettle of fish (how's that for a mixed metaphor?)
Happy birthday to two Capricorns - Andy (no 2 grandson) and Trudie (sister-in-law). I found a couple of snowdrops in bud this morning - dare we think about spring? I think everyone loves the brave little snowdrop.
Had a strange request from Jay and Les - they fancy an old-fashioned knitted tea cosy so I'm doing one for them. On consulting the Internet and the Codsall knitting shop it appears these things are currently on trend - don't you just hate that expression 'on trend' seems to be a current buzz word. There's patterns available for tea cosies in every guise - who'd have thought that 2014 would bring tea cosy haute couture. I'd have thought they were as naff as a knitted toilet roll cover. Still, you don't need to keep your toilet rolls warm but I guess teapots are a different kettle of fish (how's that for a mixed metaphor?)
7th January 2014
Have you seen the news about the low temperatures in USA? - how can anyone function in such extremes? The very thought scares me. Like many others, I'm troubled with Reynaud's disease and struggle a bit in cold weather, two pairs of gloves at once make little difference. Never mind... it's not the end of the world.
Writers' group today - haven't read the book so I haven't written a review - that's today's lesson in how to be a rubbish writers' group member.
Following on from yesterday, in ancient times January 7th was called St Distaff's Day, a sort of female equivalent of Plough Monday and a time for getting back to work after the festivities. A distaff is a tool used by women for spinning. I would guess that's why we hear the expression, 'the distaff side of the family' meaning female family members.
Writers' meeting went OK - Carol (not my daughter) brought a box of chocs - I reckon she thought they'd look better shared round our hips rather than the entire box settling on hers. We didn't object to eating them though - it'd be rude not to.
Have you seen the news about the low temperatures in USA? - how can anyone function in such extremes? The very thought scares me. Like many others, I'm troubled with Reynaud's disease and struggle a bit in cold weather, two pairs of gloves at once make little difference. Never mind... it's not the end of the world.
Writers' group today - haven't read the book so I haven't written a review - that's today's lesson in how to be a rubbish writers' group member.
Following on from yesterday, in ancient times January 7th was called St Distaff's Day, a sort of female equivalent of Plough Monday and a time for getting back to work after the festivities. A distaff is a tool used by women for spinning. I would guess that's why we hear the expression, 'the distaff side of the family' meaning female family members.
Writers' meeting went OK - Carol (not my daughter) brought a box of chocs - I reckon she thought they'd look better shared round our hips rather than the entire box settling on hers. We didn't object to eating them though - it'd be rude not to.
5th January 2014
Can't help thinking about all the people with flooded homes and other weather damage - we've a few blessings to count in our region.
We've just had a very splashy drive home from Pattingham (6.00pm) it's raining hard enough to warrant an ark. Jay and Les were busy putting Christmas back in its box. On a sudden whim they'd decided to move the furniture around to give the place a new look. Another case of a change being as good as a rest.
Can't help thinking about all the people with flooded homes and other weather damage - we've a few blessings to count in our region.
We've just had a very splashy drive home from Pattingham (6.00pm) it's raining hard enough to warrant an ark. Jay and Les were busy putting Christmas back in its box. On a sudden whim they'd decided to move the furniture around to give the place a new look. Another case of a change being as good as a rest.
4th January 2014
An interesting day today - the Earth is at perihelion - meaning that as we do our annual orbit of the sun we are now at the closest possible point to the fiery planet. You'd think we'd be sizzling; not the case, because we're in the northern hemisphere and the earth's tilt points us away from the sun we don't feel the benefit - Australia and areas in the southern hemisphere cop for all the hot rays at perihelion. If the sun does manage to peep through the cloud mass, it should appear larger than usual.
We went up to Bishops Wood last night for supper with Tom and Elaine - had a great evening catching up on news. They'd had a busy Christmas with Matthew, Nicholas, Julia and three little granddaughters staying over.
Off to do the weekly shop now - "such fun!" as Miranda's mother would say.
Ended up having a lunchtime sandwich at the garden centre - we'd called in to buy bird food before heading to Sainsbury's. On the way home we saw a spectacular sunset and the sun did actually appear larger than usual.
An interesting day today - the Earth is at perihelion - meaning that as we do our annual orbit of the sun we are now at the closest possible point to the fiery planet. You'd think we'd be sizzling; not the case, because we're in the northern hemisphere and the earth's tilt points us away from the sun we don't feel the benefit - Australia and areas in the southern hemisphere cop for all the hot rays at perihelion. If the sun does manage to peep through the cloud mass, it should appear larger than usual.
We went up to Bishops Wood last night for supper with Tom and Elaine - had a great evening catching up on news. They'd had a busy Christmas with Matthew, Nicholas, Julia and three little granddaughters staying over.
Off to do the weekly shop now - "such fun!" as Miranda's mother would say.
Ended up having a lunchtime sandwich at the garden centre - we'd called in to buy bird food before heading to Sainsbury's. On the way home we saw a spectacular sunset and the sun did actually appear larger than usual.
3rd January 2014
I started that painting yesterday - the one I mentioned on the 27th - from Jay and Les's photograph of the tea slopes in Kerala. Got up this morning, looked at it, and scraped half of it off - I knew I'd struggle with mist. I haven't the foggiest idea (pun intended) idea how to deal with it. Then I thought I'd better get dressed before I got too involved in the painting. Margaret's coming this morning - she's secretary of the Wolverhampton Retired Teachers' Association - I type their quarterly Newsletter. (In case you're wondering - no I'm not a member). Roy's coming at 2.00 to have some letters done and in between times I'll wander off to dab and daub my painting. Looks like being a patchwork sort of day today.
I've just spent an hour or so painting - disappointing outcome. I reckon I'll have to start all over again and try to learn from my mistakes (easier said than done).
I started that painting yesterday - the one I mentioned on the 27th - from Jay and Les's photograph of the tea slopes in Kerala. Got up this morning, looked at it, and scraped half of it off - I knew I'd struggle with mist. I haven't the foggiest idea (pun intended) idea how to deal with it. Then I thought I'd better get dressed before I got too involved in the painting. Margaret's coming this morning - she's secretary of the Wolverhampton Retired Teachers' Association - I type their quarterly Newsletter. (In case you're wondering - no I'm not a member). Roy's coming at 2.00 to have some letters done and in between times I'll wander off to dab and daub my painting. Looks like being a patchwork sort of day today.
I've just spent an hour or so painting - disappointing outcome. I reckon I'll have to start all over again and try to learn from my mistakes (easier said than done).
2nd January 2014
The last traces of Christmas are banished - I've gone the whole hog and removed my Christmas nail varnish too, so the house and I look rather jaded. Bern's back to work this morning - he found retirement a bit boring so helps out at Gary's [son-in-law] place with some driving. Rest of the family are back to work too so I can recommence my hotchpotch daydreaming days - normality has descended. I've peered into my writers' group folder and tried to tune in ready for next Tuesday - haven't written a thing (except this blog) since we broke up. So far today, between moments of mind-wandering, I've flicked a duster, vacuumed the crumbs from the kitchen floor and set the washing machine in motion - now I'm just considering a cup of coffee. Had an e-mail from Peggy in Australia today - she says they had 34 degrees on Christmas Day - imagine coping with roast spuds, turkey, and sprouts in such heat - I'd have to settle for an ice-lolly.
The last traces of Christmas are banished - I've gone the whole hog and removed my Christmas nail varnish too, so the house and I look rather jaded. Bern's back to work this morning - he found retirement a bit boring so helps out at Gary's [son-in-law] place with some driving. Rest of the family are back to work too so I can recommence my hotchpotch daydreaming days - normality has descended. I've peered into my writers' group folder and tried to tune in ready for next Tuesday - haven't written a thing (except this blog) since we broke up. So far today, between moments of mind-wandering, I've flicked a duster, vacuumed the crumbs from the kitchen floor and set the washing machine in motion - now I'm just considering a cup of coffee. Had an e-mail from Peggy in Australia today - she says they had 34 degrees on Christmas Day - imagine coping with roast spuds, turkey, and sprouts in such heat - I'd have to settle for an ice-lolly.
1st January 2014
Looks like we've landed safely in 2014 - Happy New Year to one and all. We were in bed by midnight and just managed to stay awake long enough to hear fireworks outside. These days, late night revellers we're not. Had a New Year e-mail from Jim and Jan in Australia and lots of texts from around the family - the air waves must be buzzing with the world and his dog exchanging messages.
Looks like we've landed safely in 2014 - Happy New Year to one and all. We were in bed by midnight and just managed to stay awake long enough to hear fireworks outside. These days, late night revellers we're not. Had a New Year e-mail from Jim and Jan in Australia and lots of texts from around the family - the air waves must be buzzing with the world and his dog exchanging messages.
We've had a lovely afternoon visiting Jenny and Ian (No 1 grandson) in Lichfield. Jenny's Nan, Madeline, was there too, a lovely opportunity to get better acquainted. Ian had baked a banana cake which of course we sampled - very nice. Then we went into town and had a good look round the medieval cathedral. Impressive architecture in English Gothic style - the building is vast. It was interesting to see a few pieces from the Staffordshire Hoard on display there.
31st December 2013
Just munching my way through a packet of Percy Pig yummy scrummy gummy sweets. Like me, Jonathan is an addict and was harbouring a bounteous stash when we were at Shrewsbury on Christmas Day, so I purloined these from him. They're pink, soft, fruity, and you get them in M&S, fabby. Oh dear, I've let his little secret out now, not much street cred in being a Percy Pig fan especially when you're a 22 year old cool dude.
Here we are, poised on the edge of the old year and ready to leap into the new. If you're partying tonight - have fun. I doubt we shall be first-footing, wearing a kilt, or Hogmanaying around the place - we did have porridge for breakfast though.
I watched an excellent drama last night starring Vanessa Redgrave and Olivia Colman - worth a visit to the replay gismo if you missed it. The Thirteenth Tale - billed as a psychological mystery from Diane Setterfield's bestselling novel. Great twist at the end.
Just munching my way through a packet of Percy Pig yummy scrummy gummy sweets. Like me, Jonathan is an addict and was harbouring a bounteous stash when we were at Shrewsbury on Christmas Day, so I purloined these from him. They're pink, soft, fruity, and you get them in M&S, fabby. Oh dear, I've let his little secret out now, not much street cred in being a Percy Pig fan especially when you're a 22 year old cool dude.
Here we are, poised on the edge of the old year and ready to leap into the new. If you're partying tonight - have fun. I doubt we shall be first-footing, wearing a kilt, or Hogmanaying around the place - we did have porridge for breakfast though.
I watched an excellent drama last night starring Vanessa Redgrave and Olivia Colman - worth a visit to the replay gismo if you missed it. The Thirteenth Tale - billed as a psychological mystery from Diane Setterfield's bestselling novel. Great twist at the end.
30th December 2013
Not much of this year left now - the supermarkets will be expecting us to shop madly as if for a siege. Can't be doing with it myself - I'm impervious to hype, a condition which comes with age. Jay and Lesley went to Greywell (Hampshire) for the weekend to see Les's parents and brother. It's a lovely tiny village with one pub, a church, and the nearest shops are a car drive away in Odiham and Hook. Reminds me of the first time we met Audrey and Jack - we had gone down to watch Jay in a passing out parade at RAF Uxbridge - a ceremony for personnel seconded to and trained for the Queen's Colour Squadron. We spent the night before in a hotel in Hook - what a night - not a wink of sleep, it turned into the night of the great storm (16.10.1987) that brought down hundreds of trees in the south, the sounds and effects of the hurricane were horrendous. Half-dead next morning we made our way to Uxbridge for the 'do' to find it had been called off because the big wig who was to officiate couldn't make it due to the bad weather. A vivid memory is the parade square at the camp - on three sides it was bordered by magnificent horse chestnut trees. The storm had stripped the trees and you could walk ankle-deep in shiny brown conkers. Anyway, it was planned that this trip would include the all important first meeting with Lesley's parents. We tootled off again, dodging fallen trees, debris etc., through the lanes to Greywell. Poor Audrey was all of a do-dah because we were invited to dinner and the power lines were down - cooker out of action and no lighting. Lesley saved the day by firing up the old Aga and we ate by candlelight. I'm afraid I've digressed big time - one memory leads to another... ramblings of an oldie etc... you know how it is...
Just in case you're interested, it's Rudyard Kipling's birthday today. Bit late to send a card though - he's is called Rudyard because his parents met at Rudyard Lake in Staffordshire so we've a bit of a tenuous connection. Oh heck! I drive myself daft with these bits of trivia - now I have to look up Rudyard Lake because I've never heard of it and have no idea where it is. Here goes... back in a mo with the info...
Not much of this year left now - the supermarkets will be expecting us to shop madly as if for a siege. Can't be doing with it myself - I'm impervious to hype, a condition which comes with age. Jay and Lesley went to Greywell (Hampshire) for the weekend to see Les's parents and brother. It's a lovely tiny village with one pub, a church, and the nearest shops are a car drive away in Odiham and Hook. Reminds me of the first time we met Audrey and Jack - we had gone down to watch Jay in a passing out parade at RAF Uxbridge - a ceremony for personnel seconded to and trained for the Queen's Colour Squadron. We spent the night before in a hotel in Hook - what a night - not a wink of sleep, it turned into the night of the great storm (16.10.1987) that brought down hundreds of trees in the south, the sounds and effects of the hurricane were horrendous. Half-dead next morning we made our way to Uxbridge for the 'do' to find it had been called off because the big wig who was to officiate couldn't make it due to the bad weather. A vivid memory is the parade square at the camp - on three sides it was bordered by magnificent horse chestnut trees. The storm had stripped the trees and you could walk ankle-deep in shiny brown conkers. Anyway, it was planned that this trip would include the all important first meeting with Lesley's parents. We tootled off again, dodging fallen trees, debris etc., through the lanes to Greywell. Poor Audrey was all of a do-dah because we were invited to dinner and the power lines were down - cooker out of action and no lighting. Lesley saved the day by firing up the old Aga and we ate by candlelight. I'm afraid I've digressed big time - one memory leads to another... ramblings of an oldie etc... you know how it is...
Just in case you're interested, it's Rudyard Kipling's birthday today. Bit late to send a card though - he's is called Rudyard because his parents met at Rudyard Lake in Staffordshire so we've a bit of a tenuous connection. Oh heck! I drive myself daft with these bits of trivia - now I have to look up Rudyard Lake because I've never heard of it and have no idea where it is. Here goes... back in a mo with the info...
RUDYARD LAKE: the hidden gem of the Staffordshire Moorlands lying in a fold in thickly wooded hillsides, Rudyard Lake is a haven of peace and tranquility less than a mile from the A523 that links Leek to Macclesfield.
The two and a half mile long lake was created more than two centuries ago to supply water for the then expanding canal system of the West Midlands. Today it is a popular day out, offering walking, boating, sailing and fishing for visitors from a wide area, from the Manchester conurbation in the north to the Potteries in the south. |
P.S. They must by psychic in Greywell - I've just had an e-mail from David (Lesley's brother) with pics of their weekend visit. I'm sure Jay and Les will strangle me but I'm posting the pictures on their page here. Link
29th December 2013
Hope you don't mind me banging on about birds again. I'm no ornithological expert, I just enjoy watching the garden birds. I was surprised this morning to see a fluttering of little Blackcaps eating the callicarpa berries - they are such a lurid looking purple colour I assumed them to be poisonous - but these little birds were having a feast. The females are the bird equivalent of ginger - blackcap is a bit of a misnomer for them. |
I rang Carol yesterday - she said Andy and Rajni have nipped over to Amsterdam for a couple of days - an engagement treat I expect. Bit by bit I'm sneaking Christmas back into its box - a strip of tinsel here, the odd bauble there, I'll have the decks cleared by January 1st. Even a few cards that have buckled at the knees have been sneaked into the recycling system - shame really, I spent ages making a collage of most of the cards - one big showy piece on the dining room wall like a big Christmas splash, I prefer that to stringing them round like washing.
28th December 2013
The Redwings have arrived - we always get a small flock at this time of year - the clump of cotoneaster trees near our fence is on their list of places to eat. It's a winter visitor and the UK's smallest bird of the thrush family - it travels here from Scandinavia.
We've just made a quick visit to Sainsbury for essentials - enjoyed the wall-to-wall sunshine - wouldn't it be lovely if winter was mainly days like this - you can cope with the cold if the sun is shining.
I've been watching Death Comes to Pemberley - TV adaptation of the book by P D James using Jane Austen's characters from Pride and Prejudice. I'm enjoying the programmes (three parts) but I'm always a bit sniffy when an author 'borrows' another author's characters. Maybe I'm being too picky but for me it feels a tad unethical.
The dictionary Bern has downloaded to his iPad chucks out a 'word of the day'. I'd never heard of today's word - tellurian - meaning of or inhabiting the earth. So to all my fellow tellurians I say, "have a nice day."
The Redwings have arrived - we always get a small flock at this time of year - the clump of cotoneaster trees near our fence is on their list of places to eat. It's a winter visitor and the UK's smallest bird of the thrush family - it travels here from Scandinavia.
We've just made a quick visit to Sainsbury for essentials - enjoyed the wall-to-wall sunshine - wouldn't it be lovely if winter was mainly days like this - you can cope with the cold if the sun is shining.
I've been watching Death Comes to Pemberley - TV adaptation of the book by P D James using Jane Austen's characters from Pride and Prejudice. I'm enjoying the programmes (three parts) but I'm always a bit sniffy when an author 'borrows' another author's characters. Maybe I'm being too picky but for me it feels a tad unethical.
The dictionary Bern has downloaded to his iPad chucks out a 'word of the day'. I'd never heard of today's word - tellurian - meaning of or inhabiting the earth. So to all my fellow tellurians I say, "have a nice day."
27th December 2013
Took me a while to work out it's Friday today - too much down time disorientates me. I shall be glad to get back to normal, whatever normal is. Once the festivities are done I'm keen to de-clutter, tear down the tinsel, hurl the holly, collect curled up cards and vacuum up the corners. Then pin up next year's calendar ready to set foot in a brand spanking new January. I never wait for Twelfth Night - I always clear the decks by the 31st ready to jump into January with a clean slate. I'm not sure what I'm going to do today - at the moment I'm mulling over a picture I might paint - I want to call it Tea Time in Kerala - from a photograph Jay and Les took when they were travelling round India. It's a view of the misty mountain slopes with the tea plantations covering the hills. I plan to exaggerate the colours to give it drama. If it works I'll show you and if it doesn't I'll sling it on the 'failure' pile. I'm not very hopeful for this one as I don't know how to paint mist - and I can't decide whether to use oil or acrylic. Dilemma!
Jay, Lesley and Carol are back at work today - I bet there's some grumpy faces on the commute.
Took me a while to work out it's Friday today - too much down time disorientates me. I shall be glad to get back to normal, whatever normal is. Once the festivities are done I'm keen to de-clutter, tear down the tinsel, hurl the holly, collect curled up cards and vacuum up the corners. Then pin up next year's calendar ready to set foot in a brand spanking new January. I never wait for Twelfth Night - I always clear the decks by the 31st ready to jump into January with a clean slate. I'm not sure what I'm going to do today - at the moment I'm mulling over a picture I might paint - I want to call it Tea Time in Kerala - from a photograph Jay and Les took when they were travelling round India. It's a view of the misty mountain slopes with the tea plantations covering the hills. I plan to exaggerate the colours to give it drama. If it works I'll show you and if it doesn't I'll sling it on the 'failure' pile. I'm not very hopeful for this one as I don't know how to paint mist - and I can't decide whether to use oil or acrylic. Dilemma!
Jay, Lesley and Carol are back at work today - I bet there's some grumpy faces on the commute.
26th December 2013
Boxing Day: so called in this country because historically it was the day bosses gave a gift known as a "Christmas box" to their servants or employees. In South Africa it has been renamed "Day of Goodwill" - in Ireland it is St. Stephen's day - Germany, Poland, Netherlands and Scandinavia celebrate 26th December as 2nd Christmas Day.
We had a jolly time at Carol and Gary's - highlight of the day was Rajni flashing a new ring as she and Andy announced their engagement - the natural corollary being champagne all round. Brave Andy had done the right thing and asked her father's permission beforehand. Carol was nodding off by 9 pm, having looked at her watch upside down she had unknowingly got up at 5 am to attack the sprouts. Ian said Jenny had muttered something when she heard the Kitchen Aid mighty mixer (Carol's pride and joy) whizzing big time well before dawn.
I've decided to rename Boxing Day as Sofa Day - doss around, eat leftovers and become a regular couch potato to catch up on yesterday's recorded TV. Poor Les has suffered a cough and cold to beat all coughs and colds over Christmas - she certainly wasn't feeling top-of-the-shop. We went round to see how she is this morning - better than yesterday but still coughing.
Boxing Day: so called in this country because historically it was the day bosses gave a gift known as a "Christmas box" to their servants or employees. In South Africa it has been renamed "Day of Goodwill" - in Ireland it is St. Stephen's day - Germany, Poland, Netherlands and Scandinavia celebrate 26th December as 2nd Christmas Day.
We had a jolly time at Carol and Gary's - highlight of the day was Rajni flashing a new ring as she and Andy announced their engagement - the natural corollary being champagne all round. Brave Andy had done the right thing and asked her father's permission beforehand. Carol was nodding off by 9 pm, having looked at her watch upside down she had unknowingly got up at 5 am to attack the sprouts. Ian said Jenny had muttered something when she heard the Kitchen Aid mighty mixer (Carol's pride and joy) whizzing big time well before dawn.
I've decided to rename Boxing Day as Sofa Day - doss around, eat leftovers and become a regular couch potato to catch up on yesterday's recorded TV. Poor Les has suffered a cough and cold to beat all coughs and colds over Christmas - she certainly wasn't feeling top-of-the-shop. We went round to see how she is this morning - better than yesterday but still coughing.
25th December 2013
Yuletide greetings to you all - have a happy day. I hope the joke in your cracker is amusing and that you don't have a hangover in the morning. If the telly gets boring you can always knit a robin - well somebody knits robins, just look at these - and no, I'm not guilty.
We're just back from visiting Bern's mum in her care home. We took a little bag with parcels in - she removed all the parcels and then put them back in the bag unopened. Presents and Christmas trees don't excite when you've already done 97 Christmases and feel a bit confused. We're going to Shrewsbury now to stuff our faces at Carol and Gary's. The rest of the family will be there too.
Yuletide greetings to you all - have a happy day. I hope the joke in your cracker is amusing and that you don't have a hangover in the morning. If the telly gets boring you can always knit a robin - well somebody knits robins, just look at these - and no, I'm not guilty.
We're just back from visiting Bern's mum in her care home. We took a little bag with parcels in - she removed all the parcels and then put them back in the bag unopened. Presents and Christmas trees don't excite when you've already done 97 Christmases and feel a bit confused. We're going to Shrewsbury now to stuff our faces at Carol and Gary's. The rest of the family will be there too.
24th December 2013
I'm sure Santa is well busy getting ready for tonight. Hope everyone finds time for a peaceful moment in these Christmas crazy days. My philosophy is hang in there and let it happen round you - it all looks better viewed from the side-lines. I'm already out of kilter and wondering what day it is. Bern says it's Tuesday so I guess it must be.
Turkey time - my cousin, Mike Groom, posted this picture on his Facebook page so I nipped along and copied it. See the telly clicker under its right arm (sorry, wing). Must say he looks a bit uncomfortable with a modicum of disarray in the gusset area.
I rang Wendy (sister) yesterday evening, we chatted for ages. They're at Aimee and Mark's for lunch tomorrow and will be going to Portsmouth at some stage to see Phil, Sarah and the boys. She told me that when someone recently asked little John what his Daddy did, he managed to merge euphonium with musician and declared that his Dad is a "euphician"
Doreen e-mailed to say her flapjacks turned out fine - she used Sainsbury's Sunflower margarine (dairy free) so quite suitable for Bruce.
I'm sure Santa is well busy getting ready for tonight. Hope everyone finds time for a peaceful moment in these Christmas crazy days. My philosophy is hang in there and let it happen round you - it all looks better viewed from the side-lines. I'm already out of kilter and wondering what day it is. Bern says it's Tuesday so I guess it must be.
Turkey time - my cousin, Mike Groom, posted this picture on his Facebook page so I nipped along and copied it. See the telly clicker under its right arm (sorry, wing). Must say he looks a bit uncomfortable with a modicum of disarray in the gusset area.
I rang Wendy (sister) yesterday evening, we chatted for ages. They're at Aimee and Mark's for lunch tomorrow and will be going to Portsmouth at some stage to see Phil, Sarah and the boys. She told me that when someone recently asked little John what his Daddy did, he managed to merge euphonium with musician and declared that his Dad is a "euphician"
Doreen e-mailed to say her flapjacks turned out fine - she used Sainsbury's Sunflower margarine (dairy free) so quite suitable for Bruce.
23rd December 2013
We had a mosey round town this morning. The weather put the kibosh on any seasonal atmosphere - even canned carols couldn't overcome the blustery wind and rain. The supermarkets were working flat out but not much happening elsewhere. I bought some jeans for Bern in Beatties (House of Fraser) but it was a minefield trying to find some that he was willing to try on. There were ones with saggy gussets which, to Bern's disgust, I call 'droopy ar*ed'; and the ones so short in the body that your pants hang out at the top, and then those with skinny legs that make you look anorexic. The assistant was askance when I asked, "do you have any suitable for oldish blokes?". I was told we needed "standard fit" which I guess in the eyes of the young translates to old fashioned. Anyway, we came home with some old fashioned jeans that fit quite well and he's happy to walk up the road in them, if they have any street cred it's down to the Tommy Hilfiger label and price tag.
Anyone into Christmas jumpers? I found Geoff and Melanie on Facebook all well woollied up in jumpers that made me laugh. I've put them on the Family page - The Bryetts.
We had a mosey round town this morning. The weather put the kibosh on any seasonal atmosphere - even canned carols couldn't overcome the blustery wind and rain. The supermarkets were working flat out but not much happening elsewhere. I bought some jeans for Bern in Beatties (House of Fraser) but it was a minefield trying to find some that he was willing to try on. There were ones with saggy gussets which, to Bern's disgust, I call 'droopy ar*ed'; and the ones so short in the body that your pants hang out at the top, and then those with skinny legs that make you look anorexic. The assistant was askance when I asked, "do you have any suitable for oldish blokes?". I was told we needed "standard fit" which I guess in the eyes of the young translates to old fashioned. Anyway, we came home with some old fashioned jeans that fit quite well and he's happy to walk up the road in them, if they have any street cred it's down to the Tommy Hilfiger label and price tag.
Anyone into Christmas jumpers? I found Geoff and Melanie on Facebook all well woollied up in jumpers that made me laugh. I've put them on the Family page - The Bryetts.
22nd December 2013
Future's bright - Wolves are top of the league. (So the chaps tell me). I saw on Facebook that Dominic and Alan went to watch them yesterday at Rotherham's new stadium. It's called the New York Stadium and silly me thought they were in USA. Bern and Jay were filling the airwaves with texted goal counts - in a man's world football overrides everything, even Christmas shopping.
Dave Bloomer came round this morning - coffee and mince pies while we sorted out the world's problems. Dave is a friend from Bern's fire brigade days (retained, local station) so we sorted out the fire and rescue service while we were at it - Dave is still a serving member with 42 years to his credit.
Future's bright - Wolves are top of the league. (So the chaps tell me). I saw on Facebook that Dominic and Alan went to watch them yesterday at Rotherham's new stadium. It's called the New York Stadium and silly me thought they were in USA. Bern and Jay were filling the airwaves with texted goal counts - in a man's world football overrides everything, even Christmas shopping.
Dave Bloomer came round this morning - coffee and mince pies while we sorted out the world's problems. Dave is a friend from Bern's fire brigade days (retained, local station) so we sorted out the fire and rescue service while we were at it - Dave is still a serving member with 42 years to his credit.
21st December 2013
Happy Solstice one and all - now the days will begin to lengthen. Andy, Rajni and Jon are at Chillington Hall today for a friend's wedding - posh venue - it'll be like having a "Downton moment". Do you remember (2nd October) when I mentioned my mother's cyclamen that's been going for ever, well it's just about to flower in time for Chrimbo. Doreen's been in touch - she'd like to try the mincemeat flapjacks - I've just e-mailed her the recipe. Maggie did the quick and easy fruit cake with great success. Between us this is turning into a bit of a bake-off. Both recipes are now on the Homemade page. |
Andy (middle grandson) and lovely Rajni doing their "Downton moment" at Chillington Hall. Lord Whatsit may not approve of hands in pockets but well done Andy for co-ordinating your tie and pocket hanky with Raj's dress.
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20th December 2013
If you've finished your shopping and ordered the turkey you can chill in front of the telly: otherwise just panic.
If you've finished your shopping and ordered the turkey you can chill in front of the telly: otherwise just panic.
19th December 2013
It's our wedding anniversary - we exchanged soppy cards at the crack of dawn (...as you do). I have to wait in for a delivery man this morning - on Sunday 15th I ordered a dress from my fave place. I love watching the tracking programme when the delivery people send you a number to check progress. This one says, 16th Jarfalla, Sweden - 17th Glostrup, Denmark - 18th Herne-Boering, Germany - 19th Tamworth, Staffs. The latter doesn't have the same romantic ring as the other places. I've imagined them all to have soft snowflakes falling, gently blanketing the Scandinavian landscape, a few reindeers skipping about jingling their bells, and Santa's elves lurking in the pine forest. (OK, in my dreams - they're probably stark wind-whipped European industrial sites all mud-splashed and gloomy). My frock will be better travelled than me and what about my carbon footprint? Now that is worrying... I hope there are ten thousand other people's items in transit with it so we can share the guilt. If you want to see where it's coming from here's a link: http://www.gudrunsjoden.co.uk -whacky stuff, scarily colourful.
Hope no one was blown away in the night - I've just been round the garden picking up scattered flower pots and bits of rubbish. The sun's shining into the kitchen at the mo showing up dust and bits we've dropped on the floor - I'll just have to get the vacuum cleaner out (botheration!). I worry we might become a pair of mucky oldies, and looking at the kitchen floor, I think we already have.
Jay popped in this evening with some anniversary flowers - lovely. We didn't see Lesley as she was working late - a Christmas function at a venue near Birmingham Airport. They've been busy on E-bay and managed to sell their brown sofa and the fireplace that was replaced with a wood-burning stove.
Christmas - was it invented by the Romans?
I found an interesting article on the BBC website (if you want to read the whole thing, search the site for an article entitled “Did the Romans Invent Christmas?” But for now, here’s a brief summary…
Theologians say that Jesus’ official birth is unknown but there is evidence that he was born in the “lambing season” and therefore has a springtime birthday. So why do we celebrate his birth on 25th December?
2000 years ago the greeting used in most of Europe at this time of year was “lo Saturnalia” – acknowledging the Roman mid-winter festival which spanned several days around 17th – 25th December. Gifts were exchanged, decorations of wreathes and greenery were put up, and lots of candles added to the party mood. It was a joyful period of over-eating, drinking, dancing and singing. All things associated with a modern Christmas – Saturnalia – Mid-winter Festival – call it what you will.
The Christian Church appropriated quite a few Pagan festivals and activities and many Christian traditions can be traced to Roman mid-winter festivals. When Britain converted to Christianity, Christian festivals were strategically placed to incorporate the old Roman festivals such as Opalia 19th December, the Sigillaria (present giving) 23rd December - December 25th was dies natalis solis invicti – the birthday of the invincible Roman sun god, Sol.
Next time you kiss under the mistletoe, sing a carol, pull a Christmas cracker, think back a few thousand years to the masters and slaves of the Roman Empire and the festival of Saturnalia.
NOTE: some think the word Pagan has connotations of heathenism and wickedness; it actually means country dweller, someone who works the land, nothing more sinister than that. Today Pagans celebrate the winter solstice, the turn of the year, which happens around the 21st – giving thanks for the year and the promise of sunshine and light and rebirth in the spring.
It's our wedding anniversary - we exchanged soppy cards at the crack of dawn (...as you do). I have to wait in for a delivery man this morning - on Sunday 15th I ordered a dress from my fave place. I love watching the tracking programme when the delivery people send you a number to check progress. This one says, 16th Jarfalla, Sweden - 17th Glostrup, Denmark - 18th Herne-Boering, Germany - 19th Tamworth, Staffs. The latter doesn't have the same romantic ring as the other places. I've imagined them all to have soft snowflakes falling, gently blanketing the Scandinavian landscape, a few reindeers skipping about jingling their bells, and Santa's elves lurking in the pine forest. (OK, in my dreams - they're probably stark wind-whipped European industrial sites all mud-splashed and gloomy). My frock will be better travelled than me and what about my carbon footprint? Now that is worrying... I hope there are ten thousand other people's items in transit with it so we can share the guilt. If you want to see where it's coming from here's a link: http://www.gudrunsjoden.co.uk -whacky stuff, scarily colourful.
Hope no one was blown away in the night - I've just been round the garden picking up scattered flower pots and bits of rubbish. The sun's shining into the kitchen at the mo showing up dust and bits we've dropped on the floor - I'll just have to get the vacuum cleaner out (botheration!). I worry we might become a pair of mucky oldies, and looking at the kitchen floor, I think we already have.
Jay popped in this evening with some anniversary flowers - lovely. We didn't see Lesley as she was working late - a Christmas function at a venue near Birmingham Airport. They've been busy on E-bay and managed to sell their brown sofa and the fireplace that was replaced with a wood-burning stove.
Christmas - was it invented by the Romans?
I found an interesting article on the BBC website (if you want to read the whole thing, search the site for an article entitled “Did the Romans Invent Christmas?” But for now, here’s a brief summary…
Theologians say that Jesus’ official birth is unknown but there is evidence that he was born in the “lambing season” and therefore has a springtime birthday. So why do we celebrate his birth on 25th December?
2000 years ago the greeting used in most of Europe at this time of year was “lo Saturnalia” – acknowledging the Roman mid-winter festival which spanned several days around 17th – 25th December. Gifts were exchanged, decorations of wreathes and greenery were put up, and lots of candles added to the party mood. It was a joyful period of over-eating, drinking, dancing and singing. All things associated with a modern Christmas – Saturnalia – Mid-winter Festival – call it what you will.
The Christian Church appropriated quite a few Pagan festivals and activities and many Christian traditions can be traced to Roman mid-winter festivals. When Britain converted to Christianity, Christian festivals were strategically placed to incorporate the old Roman festivals such as Opalia 19th December, the Sigillaria (present giving) 23rd December - December 25th was dies natalis solis invicti – the birthday of the invincible Roman sun god, Sol.
Next time you kiss under the mistletoe, sing a carol, pull a Christmas cracker, think back a few thousand years to the masters and slaves of the Roman Empire and the festival of Saturnalia.
NOTE: some think the word Pagan has connotations of heathenism and wickedness; it actually means country dweller, someone who works the land, nothing more sinister than that. Today Pagans celebrate the winter solstice, the turn of the year, which happens around the 21st – giving thanks for the year and the promise of sunshine and light and rebirth in the spring.
18th December 2013
Happy birthday to Aimee in Cardiff - have a good one. I've been doing a few errands this morning, bit of sorting out at the bank, then called on Judy; a friend from schooldays - we had coffee did some catching up and exchanged Christmas cards and ailments. Then I bumped into Fran - not literally, she was behind the counter in Lawrence's shop, so a further airing of ailments took place. Maggie has e-mailed to ask if I know a word meaning the opposite of skeuomorph - I've waded through my dictionaries and much Googleing but haven't found the answer yet. I'm sure someone will know the very word - do let us know. I'm leaning towards authentic - can't think of anything else that comes near.
Happy birthday to Aimee in Cardiff - have a good one. I've been doing a few errands this morning, bit of sorting out at the bank, then called on Judy; a friend from schooldays - we had coffee did some catching up and exchanged Christmas cards and ailments. Then I bumped into Fran - not literally, she was behind the counter in Lawrence's shop, so a further airing of ailments took place. Maggie has e-mailed to ask if I know a word meaning the opposite of skeuomorph - I've waded through my dictionaries and much Googleing but haven't found the answer yet. I'm sure someone will know the very word - do let us know. I'm leaning towards authentic - can't think of anything else that comes near.
17th December 2013
What a lovely morning - I didn't see it, but Carol said (customary drive to work phone call) the sunrise was stunning and worth waking up early. Look who's found his way onto the mantelshelf today - he climbs up there every year to preside over the festive season and although he hardly exudes benevolence and bon homie, he makes me smile. I'm off to the final writers' meeting of the term today. I've put the Spring Term programme on their website in readiness for noses to the grindstone in 2014. You can also find a copy of it here on the Codsall Writers page (<link or under 'More' above) Our book for reading during the Christmas break is "Small Island" by Andrea Levy. I've still not completed the cushion covers - maybe I'll get time tomorrow - they're all cut out and ready to go, or I should say, ready to sew. PS: Bern has asked me to point out that he did not take the picture of the chap on the right and it's definitely NOT a selfie. |
16th December 2013
My spirits are lifted - found a message here from Liz - someone whom I chat with on a writers' website forum - sort of anonymous networking. Then came a card with a message from Ann (she lives in Evesham) saying she likes popping in here to see what we're all up to. Carol rang this morning (traffic jam in Shrewsbury so she needed to pass the time) she was raving about her Whatsapp app - each morning on her Whatsapp app she sings a Christmas song and APP-arently, her friends' children all await Carol's daily rendition of something Christmassy - only 9 sleeps to go kids. She's got through The Twelve Days of Christmas and is now scratching around to fill the rest of the days with suitable songs. Anyone into Whatsapp? I think it only works on smart phones and androids - maybe I'll put it on my iPad - it sounds like fun. Haven't seen it in action but I assume it's along the lines of a voicemail version of facetime. Aaaaargh! I'm churning out jargon - hope I don't descend to selfies. I'm charging off to my den now - scissors poised - about to fire up the sewing machine.
We nipped out this afternoon on a Scrooge mission - i.e. saving postage by delivering cards. Turned out to be a good move because when we landed at Tom and Elaine's they hauled us inside and we spent a lovely couple of hours catching up, reminiscing, and accepting a supper invitation. We're so lucky to have wonderful friends.
Just remembered the solar light Bern fixed by the bins (see 4th Dec) and yes, it works a treat.
My spirits are lifted - found a message here from Liz - someone whom I chat with on a writers' website forum - sort of anonymous networking. Then came a card with a message from Ann (she lives in Evesham) saying she likes popping in here to see what we're all up to. Carol rang this morning (traffic jam in Shrewsbury so she needed to pass the time) she was raving about her Whatsapp app - each morning on her Whatsapp app she sings a Christmas song and APP-arently, her friends' children all await Carol's daily rendition of something Christmassy - only 9 sleeps to go kids. She's got through The Twelve Days of Christmas and is now scratching around to fill the rest of the days with suitable songs. Anyone into Whatsapp? I think it only works on smart phones and androids - maybe I'll put it on my iPad - it sounds like fun. Haven't seen it in action but I assume it's along the lines of a voicemail version of facetime. Aaaaargh! I'm churning out jargon - hope I don't descend to selfies. I'm charging off to my den now - scissors poised - about to fire up the sewing machine.
We nipped out this afternoon on a Scrooge mission - i.e. saving postage by delivering cards. Turned out to be a good move because when we landed at Tom and Elaine's they hauled us inside and we spent a lovely couple of hours catching up, reminiscing, and accepting a supper invitation. We're so lucky to have wonderful friends.
Just remembered the solar light Bern fixed by the bins (see 4th Dec) and yes, it works a treat.
15th December 2013
I've just been to the back of the wardrobe to dig out a box of tired decorations - I guess I'll blow the dust off a couple of things, plonk them somewhere and make out we're ready for the festivities to begin. My granny's old clock is now wearing its twinkly Yuletide bells (sparkly bits don't show on the pic). You wouldn't believe the contortions I had to execute to avoid appearing like a flipping phantom in the mirror behind the clock - you might have thought Marley's ghost was on the loose. Actually, I think there is something on the loose, the damn clock has just struck twelve and it's now one-thirty. Spooky. Back again: I've just spoken with Jay and Les - they've had a fab weekend. Last night they went to the 02 Academy Birmingham to see an Ocean Colour Scene concert (have to admit I've never heard of the venue nor the group). They reckon it was "rocking" which I think means they enjoyed it. They had an overnight hotel and spent today in the city. They saw the German Market and weren't too impressed with that. High point of the day which they enthused about was the new Library, especially the views of the City from the 9th floor. |
14th December 2013 (Saturday)
Postman delivered a couple more Christmas robins and a lady with mistletoe this morning. Carol's friend Gerry did the latter one using soft pastel - very good. I now have a little gallery comprising cards done by arty-farty friends. I did a bit of Internet shopping yesterday so I'm veering in the right direction and shaking off my bah-humbug mood. Carol started it by reminding me of the Bob Dylan clip on You Tube - have a look - he gets you jigging about and singing "Who's got a big fat cherry nose......" and other nonsensical lines... I find it quite funny, but then I'm easily amused. (search You Tube for Bob Dylan - It Must Be Santa). Going to visit the Fabric Barn shortly, I want to make some new cushion covers. Back again and went to Waitrose while we were out, bumped into Mike and Penny in there and blocked an aisle while we stood chatting. (I have the cheek to feel annoyed with other people who do that when I'm trying to get round). Couldn't find anything suitable at the Fabric Barn and the one I did like was £50 per metre - decided to give it a miss. However, found a little fabric shop by the traffic lights, Windmill Hill, Wombourne and procured a tenner's worth from their remnant box - enough for several cushion covers. |
13th December 2013
Oooh another Friday 13th. Hope no one's superstitious enough to be hiding under the duvet. Isn't it lovely when distant friends get in touch. Had a card and message from Val in Suffolk this morning. She's a friend of a friend and we used to meet when she was visiting Tom and Elaine at this time of year. Now we're communicating directly I feel a bit like a poacher. Bern's just phoned to say he's waiting at Quickfit to have a punctured tyre repaired - the 13th has struck just when I'd decided I wasn't superstitious. It transpires a screw had pierced the tyre - if you're going to screw up do it on the 13th - I know, so corny it makes one tired, I'll tread more carefully next time, no pressure.
Oooh another Friday 13th. Hope no one's superstitious enough to be hiding under the duvet. Isn't it lovely when distant friends get in touch. Had a card and message from Val in Suffolk this morning. She's a friend of a friend and we used to meet when she was visiting Tom and Elaine at this time of year. Now we're communicating directly I feel a bit like a poacher. Bern's just phoned to say he's waiting at Quickfit to have a punctured tyre repaired - the 13th has struck just when I'd decided I wasn't superstitious. It transpires a screw had pierced the tyre - if you're going to screw up do it on the 13th - I know, so corny it makes one tired, I'll tread more carefully next time, no pressure.
12th December 2013
Just rushing off to art class - back later. Well, we've broken up now until early January. Had a good morning with several of us having turned one of our pieces of work into a Christmas Card and we duly exchanged offerings, Roland and I were the meanest having churned ours out on our computers - others had the decency to get them professionally reproduced and I must say they looked the pucker thing. Maggie did a Robin, Jose a vicarage, Hilary some lovely snowdrops and Toni used a wintery scene with a pale sun. We packed up early to scoff a few nibbles and chat. Trudie (sister-in-law) called in this afternoon to deliver cards. I grabbed the chance to give them theirs - another .50p saved (rubs hands together in Scrooge fashion). |
11th December 2013
I'm going to do some baking this morning. It's last day at art class tomorrow and we have to take 'a plate of something'. I've been nominated for cake - I'm going to do fruit cake and some flap jacks. They'll be a little bit healthy because they have oats and wholemeal flour then you load them with mincemeat to counteract the healthy bit. It's a Delia recipe Carol and I have used for years - I suppose you'd call them Christmassy flapjacks. Don's coming at 2.15 for some typing so I'd better get a move on. I'll be back later all being well. |
http://cafelit.co.uk/Dec102013NewShoes.html
I've just had an e-mail from this website to say they've published my 100 word story. If you go for a peep you'll find there's a word in the last line that shouldn't be there. Flapjacks and cake are out of the oven now. I'm just waiting for Don, I've fished their card out of the pile so that's saved me another 50p. OK so I've a mean streak as well as bah humbug tendencies. |
10th December 2013
I've been thinking about the card thing. Isn't it shameful that we contact distant friends and relatives only at Christmas when we should be making more effort during the year? We bow to the convention of exchanging cards, at the cost of trees (not to mention the bank loan you need to buy sufficient stamps). Oh dear, I've vowed to refrain from doing any more bah- humbugging. Thing is, I don't begrudge sending cards to those far away but we still hand out cards to people we see every day - that's pretty illogical - why do we have to provide written proof that we wish them a happy Christmas? We live in the age of intstant communication, can't we just say it, face-to-face, text, e-mail, telephone. Let's talk to each other instead of silently exchanging bits of paper. So if anyone who is reading this is not on any of the following lists - Friends, Family, Neighbours, Art/Writers Groups, Bern's Friends/Colleagues, I here and now sincerely wish you a very Happy Christmas well in advance.
I didn't make it to writers' meeting today - I was catching up on some typing for Roy. As I was 'grounded' I altered two pairs of trousers - the waist needed taking in - strange because I haven't lost weight - perhaps my fat has redistributed itself more evenly. Maggie sent an e-mail to say the meeting went well and a new member joined - welcome to Mike.
I've been thinking about the card thing. Isn't it shameful that we contact distant friends and relatives only at Christmas when we should be making more effort during the year? We bow to the convention of exchanging cards, at the cost of trees (not to mention the bank loan you need to buy sufficient stamps). Oh dear, I've vowed to refrain from doing any more bah- humbugging. Thing is, I don't begrudge sending cards to those far away but we still hand out cards to people we see every day - that's pretty illogical - why do we have to provide written proof that we wish them a happy Christmas? We live in the age of intstant communication, can't we just say it, face-to-face, text, e-mail, telephone. Let's talk to each other instead of silently exchanging bits of paper. So if anyone who is reading this is not on any of the following lists - Friends, Family, Neighbours, Art/Writers Groups, Bern's Friends/Colleagues, I here and now sincerely wish you a very Happy Christmas well in advance.
I didn't make it to writers' meeting today - I was catching up on some typing for Roy. As I was 'grounded' I altered two pairs of trousers - the waist needed taking in - strange because I haven't lost weight - perhaps my fat has redistributed itself more evenly. Maggie sent an e-mail to say the meeting went well and a new member joined - welcome to Mike.
7th/8th December 2013
Sunday: I've nipped into Waitrose, Co-op and Sainsbury's today (yes, on a Sunday) looking for dried sour cherries and dried tropical fruit mix for a cake recipe. Can't find them. I'm not a habitual Sunday shopper and was amazed how many people are mooching round supermarkets on a Sunday afternoon. We drove to Pattingham taking a circuitous route through the country lanes, the winter sunshine lighting up the landscape. Enjoyed the ride but when we got there Jay and Les were out so now we're home again and ready for a cup of tea and telly.
Saturday: I've just realised this is the first of three weekends left before Christmas - to date my only nod in the direction of Yule is to hotfoot it to the Post Office and airmail three cards to Australia. I wonder why they don't make Christmas Day fall on a Sunday as they do with Easter Sunday. It's so inconvenient to have it mid-week making an interminable period of shop, cook, eat, watch telly, vegetate on the sofa. I warned you I lean in the direction of bah humbug.
My skirt has gone together successfully and I can get into it (just) - only have to turn up the hem now. We're off to Jose and Claude's this morning, they want to talk computers. They think theirs is on the blink and want us to have a look at it. I wouldn't ask us if I were them, we're hardly experts.
Went on to Sainsbury's and once again we were bombarded with Jingle Bells, angels, and sleigh rides - they churn it out non-stop until it becomes trivia. They're killing Christmas rather than promoting it. OK so I'm a moaner - but I do feel it gets more and more distasteful as the ubiquitous "they" try to conjure a world of happy families and gifts aplenty. Do "they" never spare a thought of how painful these ideals are for the lonely and unwanted. Good luck to everyone who is well off and can have a dream Christmas - but I think it's very unkind to keep shoving it in everyone's' face, heightening the feeling of exclusion for the less fortunate, and especially the poor little kids who'll not receive a mountain of presents and wonder why Santa has forgotten them.
Sunday: I've nipped into Waitrose, Co-op and Sainsbury's today (yes, on a Sunday) looking for dried sour cherries and dried tropical fruit mix for a cake recipe. Can't find them. I'm not a habitual Sunday shopper and was amazed how many people are mooching round supermarkets on a Sunday afternoon. We drove to Pattingham taking a circuitous route through the country lanes, the winter sunshine lighting up the landscape. Enjoyed the ride but when we got there Jay and Les were out so now we're home again and ready for a cup of tea and telly.
Saturday: I've just realised this is the first of three weekends left before Christmas - to date my only nod in the direction of Yule is to hotfoot it to the Post Office and airmail three cards to Australia. I wonder why they don't make Christmas Day fall on a Sunday as they do with Easter Sunday. It's so inconvenient to have it mid-week making an interminable period of shop, cook, eat, watch telly, vegetate on the sofa. I warned you I lean in the direction of bah humbug.
My skirt has gone together successfully and I can get into it (just) - only have to turn up the hem now. We're off to Jose and Claude's this morning, they want to talk computers. They think theirs is on the blink and want us to have a look at it. I wouldn't ask us if I were them, we're hardly experts.
Went on to Sainsbury's and once again we were bombarded with Jingle Bells, angels, and sleigh rides - they churn it out non-stop until it becomes trivia. They're killing Christmas rather than promoting it. OK so I'm a moaner - but I do feel it gets more and more distasteful as the ubiquitous "they" try to conjure a world of happy families and gifts aplenty. Do "they" never spare a thought of how painful these ideals are for the lonely and unwanted. Good luck to everyone who is well off and can have a dream Christmas - but I think it's very unkind to keep shoving it in everyone's' face, heightening the feeling of exclusion for the less fortunate, and especially the poor little kids who'll not receive a mountain of presents and wonder why Santa has forgotten them.
6th December 2013 - RIP NELSON MANDELA
The weather has calmed down a bit this morning - we seem to miss the extremes here in the Midlands, one consolation for living in these parts rather than somewhere more picturesque. Just had my Shredded Wheat and now I'm munching almonds (again). I think I'm developing an addiction - literally a 'nut case'. I'm going to disappear up to my 'den' in a mo - skirt's cut out and the pieces tacked together - time to call the sewing machine into play. I do it with trepidation as it's years since I've done any dressmaking. If it ends up wearable I'll let you know - otherwise I'll remain silent and mourn the wasted money.
Amazon e-mail scam: might be worth checking out the "Our Street" page - I've posted a Neighbourhood Watch message about a computer scam currently doing the rounds whereby hackers are getting into address books by sending a message purportedly from Amazon. If you open the attachment it lets the hacker into your address book.
Nelson Mandela: a guy who's left his mark on the world and changed things for the better. I was bemused as I watched this morning's news - people were posing by the flowers being placed in his memory and taking 'selfie' pictures on their phones - why?
The weather has calmed down a bit this morning - we seem to miss the extremes here in the Midlands, one consolation for living in these parts rather than somewhere more picturesque. Just had my Shredded Wheat and now I'm munching almonds (again). I think I'm developing an addiction - literally a 'nut case'. I'm going to disappear up to my 'den' in a mo - skirt's cut out and the pieces tacked together - time to call the sewing machine into play. I do it with trepidation as it's years since I've done any dressmaking. If it ends up wearable I'll let you know - otherwise I'll remain silent and mourn the wasted money.
Amazon e-mail scam: might be worth checking out the "Our Street" page - I've posted a Neighbourhood Watch message about a computer scam currently doing the rounds whereby hackers are getting into address books by sending a message purportedly from Amazon. If you open the attachment it lets the hacker into your address book.
Nelson Mandela: a guy who's left his mark on the world and changed things for the better. I was bemused as I watched this morning's news - people were posing by the flowers being placed in his memory and taking 'selfie' pictures on their phones - why?
5th December 2013
Thursday again so I've just stuffed my art bag - it's my usual last minute panic along the lines of "what shall I do?". I've had a quick rummage through the kitchen cupboards while the kettle boils and plumped for a couple of coffee pots and a tea towel to make a still life. More domestic than artistic, oh well...
Back again: there's a wild old wind out there - I think it's whipped round Codsall picking up litter and dumped it in our garden. Don't have a picture to show you - re my intended sill life: I struggled with the drawing and didn't get round to painting. Olga had brought mince pies so we had an extended coffee break and got to talking... then someone new joined us; Penny, who just happens to be an old friend so I talked some more... you know how it is.
Must do some cards - we've had two from Australia this week. My friend Peggy and Bern's Navy mate Jim Fraser. Both friends from a lifetime ago - at least fifty years plus. I'm just going to steam my length of fabric now - the sewing pattern tells me if it's going to shrink it's best done now rather than after it's made up. That's the theory so here goes...
Thursday again so I've just stuffed my art bag - it's my usual last minute panic along the lines of "what shall I do?". I've had a quick rummage through the kitchen cupboards while the kettle boils and plumped for a couple of coffee pots and a tea towel to make a still life. More domestic than artistic, oh well...
Back again: there's a wild old wind out there - I think it's whipped round Codsall picking up litter and dumped it in our garden. Don't have a picture to show you - re my intended sill life: I struggled with the drawing and didn't get round to painting. Olga had brought mince pies so we had an extended coffee break and got to talking... then someone new joined us; Penny, who just happens to be an old friend so I talked some more... you know how it is.
Must do some cards - we've had two from Australia this week. My friend Peggy and Bern's Navy mate Jim Fraser. Both friends from a lifetime ago - at least fifty years plus. I'm just going to steam my length of fabric now - the sewing pattern tells me if it's going to shrink it's best done now rather than after it's made up. That's the theory so here goes...
4th December 2013
I've just received a parcel - it's the fabric I ordered to make a winter skirt. I said (Nov 25) I'd report back when it arrived. Wow - I'm well impressed with the service. Good quality material, very carefully packed, it arrived in pristine condition. If you're into sewing and fabrics here's the info: The company is called Clothspot - website www.clothspot.co.uk. I've discovered that choosing fabrics on the internet is a bit of minefield regarding colour and quality - but this website gives helpful explanations regarding weight and suitability for a particular garment. I think someone on the payroll is a latent poet or novelist because things wax quite lyrical and make entertaining reading - if you're into fabrics of course.
Hair cut day today so I'll be charging off again now - catch up with you later.
Back again with tidier hair. Bern's been fixing a solar light by the bins to make sure I choose the right one in the dark. It has to charge up for a couple of days so it's a matter of 'wait and see' before we know if it actually works.
I've just received a parcel - it's the fabric I ordered to make a winter skirt. I said (Nov 25) I'd report back when it arrived. Wow - I'm well impressed with the service. Good quality material, very carefully packed, it arrived in pristine condition. If you're into sewing and fabrics here's the info: The company is called Clothspot - website www.clothspot.co.uk. I've discovered that choosing fabrics on the internet is a bit of minefield regarding colour and quality - but this website gives helpful explanations regarding weight and suitability for a particular garment. I think someone on the payroll is a latent poet or novelist because things wax quite lyrical and make entertaining reading - if you're into fabrics of course.
Hair cut day today so I'll be charging off again now - catch up with you later.
Back again with tidier hair. Bern's been fixing a solar light by the bins to make sure I choose the right one in the dark. It has to charge up for a couple of days so it's a matter of 'wait and see' before we know if it actually works.
There were some good titles with clever interpretations but I haven't listed them all because I've already forgotten what they were. (I must have a few dead brain cells).
Above - Jan, Ryan, Carol, Rosemarie, Andrea, Iris. Right - Maggie and Lesley Thelma, Cora and Sam seem to have escaped the camera (sorry) |
2nd December 2013
Washing's on and I've swept a few leaves - has to be done but not worth writing about.
Washing's on and I've swept a few leaves - has to be done but not worth writing about.
1st December 2013
White Rabbits (first of the month) We've had a great outing today. We went to Weston Park Granary Restaurant for lunch with Carol, Gary, Jay, Lesley, Jenny, Andy, Rajni, and Jon - Ian couldn't make it as he had to be in Manchester for a sporting event and the AGM of something or other. Bern and I arrived early so we could take in the art exhibition in the gallery next door to the Granary. Artist Rob Pointon - lively, vibrant pictures; impressionistic and painted 'en plein air' like the original Impressionists who founded the movement. Painting 'on the spot' demands swift work, hence the exaggerated lively brush strokes to capture the scene. Changing light, weather conditions etc all add to the urgency and the need to paint swiftly. After our meal Jay and Les decided to look at the exhibition so we went with them for a second viewing.
White Rabbits (first of the month) We've had a great outing today. We went to Weston Park Granary Restaurant for lunch with Carol, Gary, Jay, Lesley, Jenny, Andy, Rajni, and Jon - Ian couldn't make it as he had to be in Manchester for a sporting event and the AGM of something or other. Bern and I arrived early so we could take in the art exhibition in the gallery next door to the Granary. Artist Rob Pointon - lively, vibrant pictures; impressionistic and painted 'en plein air' like the original Impressionists who founded the movement. Painting 'on the spot' demands swift work, hence the exaggerated lively brush strokes to capture the scene. Changing light, weather conditions etc all add to the urgency and the need to paint swiftly. After our meal Jay and Les decided to look at the exhibition so we went with them for a second viewing.
Sorry the pics are not really up to scratch - they're all reluctant to pose for photos as they're aware they might end up here. Lots of eye-rolling and blank looks skyward go on accompanied by noises of "Oh Mum," and "Oh Gran" (but I plough on benignly).
The food is good at The Granary - I would recommend it - we all enjoyed it and will visit again in the future. It seems to have become an annual tradition now for our family to have a pre-Christmas 'do' - Bern treats us. We'll all get together again on the 25th for food, fun, and laughs. |
30th November 2013
Beautiful sunshine and all I could find to do was visit Sainsbury's. The best thing we found in there was Jonathan with a Thai tan - we had a hug in the aisle before he dashed off with his mates to someone's stag do.
Beautiful sunshine and all I could find to do was visit Sainsbury's. The best thing we found in there was Jonathan with a Thai tan - we had a hug in the aisle before he dashed off with his mates to someone's stag do.
29th November 2013
Well, I typed the date and then Classic FM distracted me - we've just had an hour or so of really meaty stuff. Beethoven's Fifth, a captivating rendition of Mars, from the Planet Suite and the Mazurka from Copelia which has been a favourite for years, conjuring up leaping ballerinas and muscle bound tights - a very lively piece.
I've made my silly hat for Tuesday's writers' do. It has to depict a book title but I can't give the game away yet. I wonder what the others will come up with. All will be revealed on Tuesday.
Not much happening today - the weather report I read says sunset is at 1600 - we're really into the dark days before Christmas now - roll on the Solstice. We seem to be having a plague of annoying phones calls recently. Today someone has tried to sell me a walk-in bath, another wanted me to claim compensation if I'd worked in a noisy environment and a bloke in India wanted "a few details" so he could "fix" my computer - as you might guess, all offers received short shrift.
Well, I typed the date and then Classic FM distracted me - we've just had an hour or so of really meaty stuff. Beethoven's Fifth, a captivating rendition of Mars, from the Planet Suite and the Mazurka from Copelia which has been a favourite for years, conjuring up leaping ballerinas and muscle bound tights - a very lively piece.
I've made my silly hat for Tuesday's writers' do. It has to depict a book title but I can't give the game away yet. I wonder what the others will come up with. All will be revealed on Tuesday.
Not much happening today - the weather report I read says sunset is at 1600 - we're really into the dark days before Christmas now - roll on the Solstice. We seem to be having a plague of annoying phones calls recently. Today someone has tried to sell me a walk-in bath, another wanted me to claim compensation if I'd worked in a noisy environment and a bloke in India wanted "a few details" so he could "fix" my computer - as you might guess, all offers received short shrift.
28th November 2013
Did you see Corrie last night? There were Christmas cards on the mantle shelf in the Rovers' living room - someone's posted early for Christmas. Don't know who's the saddest, me or them. It's art class this morning and then over to Andy's to let in the fridge repair man. Back later all being well. Forget what I said earlier about Corrie - when I got home from Andy & Rajni's place I found we'd received our first Christmas card (hangs head in shame) I'll not put it on the shelf just yet. There were one or two missing from art class today - I took three peppers to paint. (watercolour). I must rummage round for an idea to do a proper painting soon as I'd like to get back to oils. |
27th November 2013
Roy was here at 9.00 for typing - an early start for me these days. I'm just back from the Co-op where I've been well blasted with Christmas music ranging from popular to pious, interspersed with truly naff: too much, too loud, too soon. Grrrrrr!!! Although.... maybe I did fall under its influence because I bought a jar of mincemeat and now I feel like a traitor. I reckon this will be my badge of office over the next few weeks >>>>>> Text from Carol saying Jon has landed. Andy rang - will I be at his place tomorrow to let in fridge repair man. Then later, Jon rang to say he's nearly home and driving the last leg of his journey to Shrewsbury - he sounded very tired and was feeling a tad chilly - he was still wearing his shorts! Bern came home with a pile of cooking apples from Carol and Gary's tree - apple crumble coming up. Jay and Lesley called in - Jay was sporting new specs and Les a frozen face as she was just back from the dentist - mmm this all sets me thinking... teeth, glasses, are the years catching up? Pipe, slippers, hot-water-bottles will soon be on their agenda. |
26th November 2013
Mid-morning and no mishaps - fingers crossed for the rest of the day. Haven't done my writers' homework (again) - I started it yesterday but the Muse was reluctant - I guess it's doghouse again for me. Carol phoned first thing, she'd had a call from Jon to say they were heading for the airport - not sure how long it takes to travel from Thailand - but he'll be back in the fold soon.
Writers' meeting went well despite my lack of effort. We have to do an "on the spot" 5-minute exercise and read it to the group so that makes me do something. The winter anthology is selling well so it looks like many people will be getting one in their Christmas stocking.
25th November 2013
Quiet sort of day today - nothing exceptional happening. I've just made a sponge cake and I'm about to put the jam in, then I'll try to convince myself I don't need to eat it. I usually end up making a cake when I'm bored with the excuse that the cake is in case someone calls in. I've done some extensive Internet cruising today and found a fabric website that looks OK - I've ordered some Donegal tweed to make a skirt and will report back if it proves to be a website worth recommendation. I'm reluctant to say it's about time I did some ironing - which just confirms this really is a boring day.
Having started on the ironing I heard a sudden click and a pop from the under-stairs cupboard and the electric supply gave out. No iron, no radio, no telly, and horror of horrors no computer - I peered at the electricity related knobs under the stairs and I hadn't a clue which one to switch so I ate a piece of cake and decided to wait until Bern comes home.
24th November 2013
Bern's just off for his Sunday morning visit to his mother. I'm munching almonds and wondering what to do next. I've been toying with the idea of doing some dress making - haven't sewn anything for years but I've just ordered a couple of patterns - had to do it online as there doesn't seem to be anywhere locally that sells patterns and fabrics.
Andy made a flying visit this afternoon - I enquired about yesterday's solo performance in the changing room. He said, despite having bounded off full of confidence the experience proved to be highly embarrassing - he didn't elaborate further so I presume there were plenty of ribald remarks unsuitable for Granny's ears.
23rd November 2013
Just nipped out to the bin - there's some lovely jewelled cobwebs hanging around this morning. Things have started going wrong already today. The porridge boiled over making the gloopiest mess you ever saw. It didn't look very inviting so we settled for toast and marmalade. Next little mishap coming up... I'm wearing brown colours todays so in a moment of fashion flair and a quick flourish I wound a rust coloured silk scarf around my wrinkly neck. I got engrossed in shifting the mountain of dust on the bedroom blinds then thought maybe I'll tackle the dust under the bed. So I was happily vacuuming under the bed and unbeknown to myself I'd stood on the end of my scarf. Then when I finally got up, scarf trapped under my foot, it suddenly tightened like a noose round my neck. Aaaargh! I nearly topped myself.
I wonder if Andy (middle grandson) is shouting "aaargh" this afternoon - he's playing his debut match with Lye Town Football Club today and club tradition decrees that the newbie strips naked and sings a song while in a state of undress. Carol says (she made a flying visit this morning) that he's not worried about the naked part but he's been practising his song non-stop. I think I'd rather endure another scarf episode rather than put myself through that. Carol had lots to say about Haggis-land and the joys of Mott-the-Hoople gigs.
Mid-morning and no mishaps - fingers crossed for the rest of the day. Haven't done my writers' homework (again) - I started it yesterday but the Muse was reluctant - I guess it's doghouse again for me. Carol phoned first thing, she'd had a call from Jon to say they were heading for the airport - not sure how long it takes to travel from Thailand - but he'll be back in the fold soon.
Writers' meeting went well despite my lack of effort. We have to do an "on the spot" 5-minute exercise and read it to the group so that makes me do something. The winter anthology is selling well so it looks like many people will be getting one in their Christmas stocking.
25th November 2013
Quiet sort of day today - nothing exceptional happening. I've just made a sponge cake and I'm about to put the jam in, then I'll try to convince myself I don't need to eat it. I usually end up making a cake when I'm bored with the excuse that the cake is in case someone calls in. I've done some extensive Internet cruising today and found a fabric website that looks OK - I've ordered some Donegal tweed to make a skirt and will report back if it proves to be a website worth recommendation. I'm reluctant to say it's about time I did some ironing - which just confirms this really is a boring day.
Having started on the ironing I heard a sudden click and a pop from the under-stairs cupboard and the electric supply gave out. No iron, no radio, no telly, and horror of horrors no computer - I peered at the electricity related knobs under the stairs and I hadn't a clue which one to switch so I ate a piece of cake and decided to wait until Bern comes home.
24th November 2013
Bern's just off for his Sunday morning visit to his mother. I'm munching almonds and wondering what to do next. I've been toying with the idea of doing some dress making - haven't sewn anything for years but I've just ordered a couple of patterns - had to do it online as there doesn't seem to be anywhere locally that sells patterns and fabrics.
Andy made a flying visit this afternoon - I enquired about yesterday's solo performance in the changing room. He said, despite having bounded off full of confidence the experience proved to be highly embarrassing - he didn't elaborate further so I presume there were plenty of ribald remarks unsuitable for Granny's ears.
23rd November 2013
Just nipped out to the bin - there's some lovely jewelled cobwebs hanging around this morning. Things have started going wrong already today. The porridge boiled over making the gloopiest mess you ever saw. It didn't look very inviting so we settled for toast and marmalade. Next little mishap coming up... I'm wearing brown colours todays so in a moment of fashion flair and a quick flourish I wound a rust coloured silk scarf around my wrinkly neck. I got engrossed in shifting the mountain of dust on the bedroom blinds then thought maybe I'll tackle the dust under the bed. So I was happily vacuuming under the bed and unbeknown to myself I'd stood on the end of my scarf. Then when I finally got up, scarf trapped under my foot, it suddenly tightened like a noose round my neck. Aaaargh! I nearly topped myself.
I wonder if Andy (middle grandson) is shouting "aaargh" this afternoon - he's playing his debut match with Lye Town Football Club today and club tradition decrees that the newbie strips naked and sings a song while in a state of undress. Carol says (she made a flying visit this morning) that he's not worried about the naked part but he's been practising his song non-stop. I think I'd rather endure another scarf episode rather than put myself through that. Carol had lots to say about Haggis-land and the joys of Mott-the-Hoople gigs.
22nd November 2013
What a beautiful morning - I've just been outside and planted a few more daffs (hope springs eternal if you have daffs to look forward to). Didn't stay out too long as my hands and feet became sooooooooo cold. I've just been thinking about that Co-op boss - looks like he's been having more than his fair share of the divi. Don't you just lose faith in these financial institutions? - what happened to the days when we were a little in awe of our bank manager? - I wouldn't give them the time of day now. They have our money to play with and we get damn all back - we may just as well shove it under the mattress. Soap box moment over - I'm sure we've all uttered such words in recent times.
Bern's just collected five big bags of horse manure (lovely stuff) from Dave Chandler. One has gone in the composter to keep it festering over winter and the others will hang around until we're ready to do a bit of muck spreading.
What a beautiful morning - I've just been outside and planted a few more daffs (hope springs eternal if you have daffs to look forward to). Didn't stay out too long as my hands and feet became sooooooooo cold. I've just been thinking about that Co-op boss - looks like he's been having more than his fair share of the divi. Don't you just lose faith in these financial institutions? - what happened to the days when we were a little in awe of our bank manager? - I wouldn't give them the time of day now. They have our money to play with and we get damn all back - we may just as well shove it under the mattress. Soap box moment over - I'm sure we've all uttered such words in recent times.
Bern's just collected five big bags of horse manure (lovely stuff) from Dave Chandler. One has gone in the composter to keep it festering over winter and the others will hang around until we're ready to do a bit of muck spreading.
21st November 2013
I don't know - they reckon that word of the year is 'selfie' - when I see that word I think 'uponeselfie' it can't possibly
mean anything else. Second thoughts, I retract that - it could be applied to me for prattling to the cyber-world about my mundane little life though I'm not given to doing selfie pictures - too many wrinkles for that lark. I suppose the young will be young so I'll do my moaning tongue-in-cheek and leave them to selfie to their heart's content.
Bag packed for this morning's art class - back later.
Just got home and logged on - I see that yesterday a new island popped up in the sea off Japan - just like that! In September there was a new island off Pakistan following an earthquake. That has me wondering, with islands coming and going at will, how accurate are our atlases?
I don't know - they reckon that word of the year is 'selfie' - when I see that word I think 'uponeselfie' it can't possibly
mean anything else. Second thoughts, I retract that - it could be applied to me for prattling to the cyber-world about my mundane little life though I'm not given to doing selfie pictures - too many wrinkles for that lark. I suppose the young will be young so I'll do my moaning tongue-in-cheek and leave them to selfie to their heart's content.
Bag packed for this morning's art class - back later.
Just got home and logged on - I see that yesterday a new island popped up in the sea off Japan - just like that! In September there was a new island off Pakistan following an earthquake. That has me wondering, with islands coming and going at will, how accurate are our atlases?
20th November 2013
Truly gloomy this morning - the weather I mean, not me; although I could churn out a bit of gloom if you wish. You only have to read the news to find some. It feels like the country is falling to bits the way everyone bangs on about the NHS, Education, Police, the Economy etc. ad nauseam. We all woke up again this morning - be happy for that - I can guarantee someone somewhere didn't.
Roy's just phoned - he'll be here at 10.30 for some typing - better hurry up and shovel in my Shredded Wheat and grab a cup of tea. I'm not supposed to eat for an hour after my first lot of morning pills so sometimes breakfast is latish if I forget to take them while I'm half-asleep. Re the ones I take after breakfast, I have to avoid fruit two hours either side of them, such complications, never mind we manage to tick along. Talking of ticking - my Granny's old clock has had another bout of dementia. I managed to synchronise it last week and now it's gone all Contrary-Mary and chimed three o'clock at half-past ten.
Back again: The weather's brightened and there's a glimpse of sunshine. Thought I'd share my latest "must haves" with you - a new keyboard (from Amazon with birthday money) I'd worn the letters off my old one. While in the throws of purchase power I also ordered some museum quality (that means they won't fade - more or less top notch quality) Caran D'ache aquarelle watercolour pencils and a suitable sketchbook to practise with them. They do dream up some fanciful names don't they - the sketchbook is labelled 'archival' which I think means the same as 'museum' quality. Anyway, they're rather nice and also acquired with birthday money so thanks very much to Carol and James (aka Jay) for these little treasures.
Truly gloomy this morning - the weather I mean, not me; although I could churn out a bit of gloom if you wish. You only have to read the news to find some. It feels like the country is falling to bits the way everyone bangs on about the NHS, Education, Police, the Economy etc. ad nauseam. We all woke up again this morning - be happy for that - I can guarantee someone somewhere didn't.
Roy's just phoned - he'll be here at 10.30 for some typing - better hurry up and shovel in my Shredded Wheat and grab a cup of tea. I'm not supposed to eat for an hour after my first lot of morning pills so sometimes breakfast is latish if I forget to take them while I'm half-asleep. Re the ones I take after breakfast, I have to avoid fruit two hours either side of them, such complications, never mind we manage to tick along. Talking of ticking - my Granny's old clock has had another bout of dementia. I managed to synchronise it last week and now it's gone all Contrary-Mary and chimed three o'clock at half-past ten.
Back again: The weather's brightened and there's a glimpse of sunshine. Thought I'd share my latest "must haves" with you - a new keyboard (from Amazon with birthday money) I'd worn the letters off my old one. While in the throws of purchase power I also ordered some museum quality (that means they won't fade - more or less top notch quality) Caran D'ache aquarelle watercolour pencils and a suitable sketchbook to practise with them. They do dream up some fanciful names don't they - the sketchbook is labelled 'archival' which I think means the same as 'museum' quality. Anyway, they're rather nice and also acquired with birthday money so thanks very much to Carol and James (aka Jay) for these little treasures.
Remember the kettle saga from a couple of weeks ago? Well I've managed to salvage the burnt one after much soaking and scrubbing (cream one). It's a similar story to the one about the two vacuum cleaners which was a bit of a Bosch balls-up and a Miele mix-up on our part. Anyway, to convince you that I'm totally bonkers, as I was wiping the top of the cooker just now this little rhyme hopped into my head....
Two little kettles sitting on the hob
One kettle's cream with a round black knob.
The other one is orange, just like the fruit
And when they boil they sing toot! toot! toot!
Two little kettles sitting on the hob
One kettle's cream with a round black knob.
The other one is orange, just like the fruit
And when they boil they sing toot! toot! toot!
19th November 2013
Happy Birthday to Kate Chappell in Aberystwyth. She was home at the weekend and we managed to catch up with her just before she set off on the long drive back to uni. I'll be slinking into the writers' meeting later keeping a low profile as I haven't done my homework (slaps wrist). I wasn't enthused by this weeks topic which, of course, is no excuse (slaps wrist again).
I never mention people's holidays until they're home again - unwise to alert the world to the fact that someone's house is sitting empty. Just spoken with Carol - they'll be home this morning. They've been on a whistle-stop tour taking in Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle-on-Tyne, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and London. A crazy trip by train - at each city they attended a Mott-the-Hoople concert (Ian Hunter lead singer). As you may know, Gary has been their number one fan for eons, but this trip, I think, is above and beyond the call of fan duty. They did have a bit of a breather in Edinburgh, no concert just some sight-seeing. Final concert was at the 02 Arena in the Docklands, London. They've tramped a lot of city streets and I gather they'll be glad to be home sitting on their own sofa. (I'll post Carol's e-mailed travel-log on their page under MORE above - hover on family and then you'll find them in the list) or use this link to Carol and Gary's page.
Got through the writers' meeting - some had produced really good time-travel stories. Also noticed that the library has our winter anthology on the counter selling at £2 which includes a .50p donation to Compton Hospice.
Happy Birthday to Kate Chappell in Aberystwyth. She was home at the weekend and we managed to catch up with her just before she set off on the long drive back to uni. I'll be slinking into the writers' meeting later keeping a low profile as I haven't done my homework (slaps wrist). I wasn't enthused by this weeks topic which, of course, is no excuse (slaps wrist again).
I never mention people's holidays until they're home again - unwise to alert the world to the fact that someone's house is sitting empty. Just spoken with Carol - they'll be home this morning. They've been on a whistle-stop tour taking in Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle-on-Tyne, Glasgow, Edinburgh, and London. A crazy trip by train - at each city they attended a Mott-the-Hoople concert (Ian Hunter lead singer). As you may know, Gary has been their number one fan for eons, but this trip, I think, is above and beyond the call of fan duty. They did have a bit of a breather in Edinburgh, no concert just some sight-seeing. Final concert was at the 02 Arena in the Docklands, London. They've tramped a lot of city streets and I gather they'll be glad to be home sitting on their own sofa. (I'll post Carol's e-mailed travel-log on their page under MORE above - hover on family and then you'll find them in the list) or use this link to Carol and Gary's page.
Got through the writers' meeting - some had produced really good time-travel stories. Also noticed that the library has our winter anthology on the counter selling at £2 which includes a .50p donation to Compton Hospice.
18th November 2013
There's a Christmas bauble on my computer front end view today - Denise has sent it, a little icon that activates an advent calendar only it won't let you peep until the right day - it should leap into action on 1st December. I see Mount Etna leapt into action last night - I've just watched a brief video on the BBC website - you can hear a mighty roar from the bowels of the earth as the lava surges out - quite impressive but scary if you happen to live near. My friend Rene has a grandson who is a volcanologist, I wonder if he'll be zooming
off to Mount Etna to investigate the happenings. (Incidentally, nothing to do with Mr Spock, he's a Vulcan and I've no idea if he's an ologist).
There's a Christmas bauble on my computer front end view today - Denise has sent it, a little icon that activates an advent calendar only it won't let you peep until the right day - it should leap into action on 1st December. I see Mount Etna leapt into action last night - I've just watched a brief video on the BBC website - you can hear a mighty roar from the bowels of the earth as the lava surges out - quite impressive but scary if you happen to live near. My friend Rene has a grandson who is a volcanologist, I wonder if he'll be zooming
off to Mount Etna to investigate the happenings. (Incidentally, nothing to do with Mr Spock, he's a Vulcan and I've no idea if he's an ologist).
17th November 2013
This morning's news says that the sun is having a bit of a hissy fit. Apparently it happens every 11 years - the magnetic fields change polarity causing disruption which subsequently affects weather systems. By December we may be treated to a light show akin to the aurora borealis. Geophysicists study the phenomena daily so I guess we'll be kept informed. |
We must be the most nerdy people in Codsall. On Sunday mornings we vacuum all through the house. Today, Bern was on the upstairs vacuum and I was using the downstairs one. (Yes we have two - not by design just another of our calamitous mishaps). Anyway we were buzzing away simultaneously and Bern switched off first while I still blasted away downstairs - he was leaping about pressing buttons and calling to me downstairs that his machine wouldn't switch off. But, mystery solved - it was mine he could hear. The other delightful moment was when our cleaner nozzles met at the halfway point on the stairs. We certainly see life.
|
Popped over to Pattingham this afternoon to see Jay and Les. Their bread board boasted a nice new loaf - Jay had been practising with flour and yeast and produced another lovely loaf. He even taps the bottom to ascertain "doneness" just like Paul Hollywood on "Bake Off".
16th November 2013
I've been knitting again - a cardigan with an all over diamond pattern. There should be a bobble thing in the middle of each diamond but I've left them out as it seemed a bit "with knobs on". Actual colour is denim blue, I must have messed up in the lighting department. I managed to be up and dressed before the window cleaner was gawping through the bedroom window - relief! Time to trundle a trolley - catch up later. Just put the meat to marinade, we're doing fajitas tonight - tasty and easy-peasy. Just heard the triumphant texts whizzing to and from Pattingham - the blokes are happy, Wolves are now top of their league, let's hope they can stay there. |
15th November 2013
Grrrr. Geriatric nincompoop! That's me. I've just spent ages trying to find the clicker (what's yours called?) to switch off the upstairs telly. Having made the bed I 'unmade' it in case it had wriggled under the duvet. Looked in drawers - maybe in a moment of daftness I'd put it away somewhere. Wandered from room to room looking on windowsills - bathroom - it had vanished. Just went to check something in my diary and It's turned up - guess where - in my handbag. Now who on earth was stupid enough to put it in there? And more to the point, why? I leave myself speechless.
Jay called in last night - he gave us a lecture about locking the back door because he'd appeared in the sitting room without us hearing him. So must remember to lock the back door - I'd better write a list because I can't keep track of the telly clicker and lock the back door all in the same day. I'm very much a list person. There's a list on the hall table where I jot down things we need from the shops. There's a birthday list so I know when to buy cards. There's several bits of paper floating round my desk onto which I've written phone numbers - no name, just a number and now I haven't a clue whom I was supposed to ring nor what I was going say. There's pages in my diary that have ever changing lists. I never manage to synchronise my lists nor do I remember to pick them up and take them with me to the shops. I stand in the shop trying to visualise my list in an effort to recall what it is I'm supposed to be buying. Life's a breeze. I read somewhere that people who take statins are less likely to develop dementia. Some time ago the hospital quadrupled my statin dose - I'm hoping that fact alone is a little glimmer of hope at the end of a very dark tunnel
Did you see Professor Brian Cox last night. He must be the dishiest bloke on the planet who has a brain. He was explaining the science of Doctor Who and the possibility of time-travel - it was quite riveting - he revealed how there is a lot of fact in the fictional Dr Who stories, intimating that future generations may well live to see some of it come true. Having said that, when world leaders can't be quick off the mark to sort out a major disaster there's little hope of us ever experiencing time travel.
14th November 2013
Happy birthday Prince Charles. I see Camilla's said that he's difficult to buy for - he hardly has to save up when he needs something new - so Next or M&S vouchers just won't do. Sorry Camilla, can't help in this instance.
Art class this morning - we're having a life model today - we all chip in for her fee. However, bag packed and breakfast done with, I've decided I'll not be able to go after all, my back is too painful to sit for the duration. It's all something to do with the narrowed arteries at the base of my spine. No good moaning though, It's more comfortable if I stand up and just amble about. Wet and windy here this morning, not conducive to ambling round the garden so I'll gaze out of the window and maybe do some daydreaming to which I'm well disposed. I have to keep leaping up whilst typing this - I'm ashamed to complain when you think of how they're suffering in the Philippines.
Brainwave: standing up job - make a rice pudding. I put it in the oven and did my habitual trick of forgetting all about it - until I smelled it. Bern would say he likes the browned bits on rice pudding skin. There's a difference between well done and cindered so this one has hit the bin before he gets wind of it. Spent ages (standing up) scrubbing the dish into pristine condition - my sins are obliterated. What a waste of time, effort, rice, milk, a suggestion of sugar, and electricity. It would have been cheaper to open a tin with the added bonus of something to eat and I could have done that standing up.
Pile of stuff just plopped through the letterbox - every item is someone trying to sell Christmas, there's catalogues I'd not asked for flogging their wares (growls, grinds teeth and slings it all in the recycling without a second glance). Have a look at "Betty's Writing" page - being grumpy after the pudding incident and junk mail delivery I've posted my thoughts on Christmas shopping. Written some time ago but still relevant and I still agree with what I said - my present frame of mind prompted me to give it an airing..
13th November 2013
Roy due at 10.00 am for some typing. Lengthy phone call from Carol extolling the virtues of her new smart phone - seems it will do everything except paint the ceiling. At yesterday's meeting Maggie was sporting one too. I think I'm a bit behind the times with my dinky pink one (I'm still talking phones in case your mind wandered). I've continued with the decluttering today, two more bags to go to the charity shop - we're getting nearer to 'Bleak House'.
12th November 2013
I'm late getting here today - got engrossed in housework (highly unusual - mere moments of madness) and realised it's nearly time to set our for the writers' meeting. We haven't had the homework headache this week as Iris is doing a workshop today. Topic is "ways into dialogue". I guess the object of the exercise is to provide our fictional characters with sparkling repartee relevant to the plot - we can but try.
Saw a news item this morning about electronic cigarettes. Being an ex nicotine addict my ears twitched at the mention of fags or e-ciggies. I don't wish to comment on the rights or wrongs of them I was just amused that when using them water vapour is exhaled and the street-wise call it vaping rather than smoking. Another new word for our vocabulary. I'm so glad I'm no longer enthralled by the weed - the ones I used to smoke are now a crippling £8 a packet. I've read that David Dimbleby has had his first tattoo at the age of 75 - a scorpion on his shoulder. Mmm... not sure what I think about that. A parrot would seem a more fitting creature to plonk on one's shoulder. Have to scoot now - back later.
The workshop was entertaining - Iris provided us all with a puppet and we had to pair up and create dialogue for our characters which revealed a story. We noticed that one or two library borrowers looked bewildered when they came across us. We sit round a large table at the far end of the library and there we were, mostly getting-on-a-bit plus young Ryan all with puppets and doing silly voices. They must have thought it was a day trip for the demented. (Second thoughts - that's a fairly accurate description of just what it was.)
Text message from Wendy (my sister) to say watch Blue Peter on Thursday on the CBeebies channel at 5.30. Phillip (Royal Marine Band) will be on playing the big drum in a group called The Highwaymen - a fund-raising exercise for Children-in-Need.
Grrrr. Geriatric nincompoop! That's me. I've just spent ages trying to find the clicker (what's yours called?) to switch off the upstairs telly. Having made the bed I 'unmade' it in case it had wriggled under the duvet. Looked in drawers - maybe in a moment of daftness I'd put it away somewhere. Wandered from room to room looking on windowsills - bathroom - it had vanished. Just went to check something in my diary and It's turned up - guess where - in my handbag. Now who on earth was stupid enough to put it in there? And more to the point, why? I leave myself speechless.
Jay called in last night - he gave us a lecture about locking the back door because he'd appeared in the sitting room without us hearing him. So must remember to lock the back door - I'd better write a list because I can't keep track of the telly clicker and lock the back door all in the same day. I'm very much a list person. There's a list on the hall table where I jot down things we need from the shops. There's a birthday list so I know when to buy cards. There's several bits of paper floating round my desk onto which I've written phone numbers - no name, just a number and now I haven't a clue whom I was supposed to ring nor what I was going say. There's pages in my diary that have ever changing lists. I never manage to synchronise my lists nor do I remember to pick them up and take them with me to the shops. I stand in the shop trying to visualise my list in an effort to recall what it is I'm supposed to be buying. Life's a breeze. I read somewhere that people who take statins are less likely to develop dementia. Some time ago the hospital quadrupled my statin dose - I'm hoping that fact alone is a little glimmer of hope at the end of a very dark tunnel
Did you see Professor Brian Cox last night. He must be the dishiest bloke on the planet who has a brain. He was explaining the science of Doctor Who and the possibility of time-travel - it was quite riveting - he revealed how there is a lot of fact in the fictional Dr Who stories, intimating that future generations may well live to see some of it come true. Having said that, when world leaders can't be quick off the mark to sort out a major disaster there's little hope of us ever experiencing time travel.
14th November 2013
Happy birthday Prince Charles. I see Camilla's said that he's difficult to buy for - he hardly has to save up when he needs something new - so Next or M&S vouchers just won't do. Sorry Camilla, can't help in this instance.
Art class this morning - we're having a life model today - we all chip in for her fee. However, bag packed and breakfast done with, I've decided I'll not be able to go after all, my back is too painful to sit for the duration. It's all something to do with the narrowed arteries at the base of my spine. No good moaning though, It's more comfortable if I stand up and just amble about. Wet and windy here this morning, not conducive to ambling round the garden so I'll gaze out of the window and maybe do some daydreaming to which I'm well disposed. I have to keep leaping up whilst typing this - I'm ashamed to complain when you think of how they're suffering in the Philippines.
Brainwave: standing up job - make a rice pudding. I put it in the oven and did my habitual trick of forgetting all about it - until I smelled it. Bern would say he likes the browned bits on rice pudding skin. There's a difference between well done and cindered so this one has hit the bin before he gets wind of it. Spent ages (standing up) scrubbing the dish into pristine condition - my sins are obliterated. What a waste of time, effort, rice, milk, a suggestion of sugar, and electricity. It would have been cheaper to open a tin with the added bonus of something to eat and I could have done that standing up.
Pile of stuff just plopped through the letterbox - every item is someone trying to sell Christmas, there's catalogues I'd not asked for flogging their wares (growls, grinds teeth and slings it all in the recycling without a second glance). Have a look at "Betty's Writing" page - being grumpy after the pudding incident and junk mail delivery I've posted my thoughts on Christmas shopping. Written some time ago but still relevant and I still agree with what I said - my present frame of mind prompted me to give it an airing..
13th November 2013
Roy due at 10.00 am for some typing. Lengthy phone call from Carol extolling the virtues of her new smart phone - seems it will do everything except paint the ceiling. At yesterday's meeting Maggie was sporting one too. I think I'm a bit behind the times with my dinky pink one (I'm still talking phones in case your mind wandered). I've continued with the decluttering today, two more bags to go to the charity shop - we're getting nearer to 'Bleak House'.
12th November 2013
I'm late getting here today - got engrossed in housework (highly unusual - mere moments of madness) and realised it's nearly time to set our for the writers' meeting. We haven't had the homework headache this week as Iris is doing a workshop today. Topic is "ways into dialogue". I guess the object of the exercise is to provide our fictional characters with sparkling repartee relevant to the plot - we can but try.
Saw a news item this morning about electronic cigarettes. Being an ex nicotine addict my ears twitched at the mention of fags or e-ciggies. I don't wish to comment on the rights or wrongs of them I was just amused that when using them water vapour is exhaled and the street-wise call it vaping rather than smoking. Another new word for our vocabulary. I'm so glad I'm no longer enthralled by the weed - the ones I used to smoke are now a crippling £8 a packet. I've read that David Dimbleby has had his first tattoo at the age of 75 - a scorpion on his shoulder. Mmm... not sure what I think about that. A parrot would seem a more fitting creature to plonk on one's shoulder. Have to scoot now - back later.
The workshop was entertaining - Iris provided us all with a puppet and we had to pair up and create dialogue for our characters which revealed a story. We noticed that one or two library borrowers looked bewildered when they came across us. We sit round a large table at the far end of the library and there we were, mostly getting-on-a-bit plus young Ryan all with puppets and doing silly voices. They must have thought it was a day trip for the demented. (Second thoughts - that's a fairly accurate description of just what it was.)
Text message from Wendy (my sister) to say watch Blue Peter on Thursday on the CBeebies channel at 5.30. Phillip (Royal Marine Band) will be on playing the big drum in a group called The Highwaymen - a fund-raising exercise for Children-in-Need.
In for a penny, in for a pound. While de-cluttering I ended up moving the furniture round. In doing that I found dust that the vacuum had missed yesterday so out comes the cleaner again. One thing leads to another - furniture moved, the pictures need rearranging. Rearranged the pictures and there are little holes and marks that need attention. Haven't got round to it yet but Polyfilla and paint are on the agenda. I'm beginning to wish I'd never started. Also there's now an empty bookcase. I'm going to have to persuade Bern he needs it in his little den because I don't want it in mine and it's surplus to requirements downstairs. Must remind myself to stop buying books.
10th November 2013
Phoned Carol this morning to see if they'd heard from Jon. They had, and the travellers are fine, apparently Jon is overwhelmed by the hustle, bustle and chaos of Bangkok. Bern's just tootled off to visit his mum (Ethel) - he's armed with photographs so that when she asks, as she does every week, "is Carol married yet?" he can show her the 29, 26, and 22 year old "babies".
Phoned Carol this morning to see if they'd heard from Jon. They had, and the travellers are fine, apparently Jon is overwhelmed by the hustle, bustle and chaos of Bangkok. Bern's just tootled off to visit his mum (Ethel) - he's armed with photographs so that when she asks, as she does every week, "is Carol married yet?" he can show her the 29, 26, and 22 year old "babies".
Festival of Remembrance - all the ceremonial stuff happened last night and at the Cenotaph today. I always feel for the servicemen and women doing the ceremonial duties, especially in weather extremes. No mean feat standing still for hours in adverse conditions - I recall when Jay was involved in such ceremonies he told us of the worry of one's arms and legs not responding when the command to move finally came and frantically wriggling toes to keep some sort of blood flow. I find the Albert Hall thing and the Sunday Morning Cenotaph parade so sad. You think about the loss of lives through two World Wars and yet have we really progressed any nearer to world peace? So much sacrifice and for what? I expect my nephew Phil Bryett will be doing Remembrance stuff today - he's in the Royal Marine Band. I was thinking of Phil this morning and by strange coincidence Sarah e-mailed later to say he's being promoted to corporal. Congratulations Philly Bryett - Aunty Betty and Pa are proud of you.
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9th November 2013
Do you like oddities? A news item this morning pointed out today's date - 9.11.13 i.e. three odd numbers in sequence. It will be 92 years before it happens again on 1st March 2105 i.e. 1.3.5. Someone in the USA suggested we name it "Odd Day". I suspect the person who took the trouble to compute the figures may be a little odd too.
Buying eggs today in Sainsbury's I was amused by the wording on the boxes - do I choose eggs laid by hens living in a barn? Another box offered eggs from hens that live in woodland, another option was the free range. I'm glad they're trying to get rid of the battery system but I still don't know which are the happiest hens. Last week in Waitrose I saw boxed eggs that told you the colour of the feathers: what's that got to do with it? How eggciting - shell I ask them what colour they've painted the henhouse? It just cracks me up.
Do you like oddities? A news item this morning pointed out today's date - 9.11.13 i.e. three odd numbers in sequence. It will be 92 years before it happens again on 1st March 2105 i.e. 1.3.5. Someone in the USA suggested we name it "Odd Day". I suspect the person who took the trouble to compute the figures may be a little odd too.
Buying eggs today in Sainsbury's I was amused by the wording on the boxes - do I choose eggs laid by hens living in a barn? Another box offered eggs from hens that live in woodland, another option was the free range. I'm glad they're trying to get rid of the battery system but I still don't know which are the happiest hens. Last week in Waitrose I saw boxed eggs that told you the colour of the feathers: what's that got to do with it? How eggciting - shell I ask them what colour they've painted the henhouse? It just cracks me up.
8th November 2013
No 3 grandson (Jon) and a couple of mates flew to Thailand yesterday - here's hoping the Philippines hurricane doesn't move in their direction. Poor Jon, I rang him just before he boarded the train for Gatwick, I needed to nag him about this and that such as taking care of themselves, money, passports etc - there's so much to worry about when they're zooming off round the world. All I got back was a patient "yes Gran", "no Gran" - in one ear and out of the other sort of response. Carol came last night - we topped up the Kindle and everything we downloaded also jumped onto my iPad all by itself - so she's borrowing the Kindle and we have two copies of everything for the price of one. - sexy or what? I inhabit an androidinous zone.
No 3 grandson (Jon) and a couple of mates flew to Thailand yesterday - here's hoping the Philippines hurricane doesn't move in their direction. Poor Jon, I rang him just before he boarded the train for Gatwick, I needed to nag him about this and that such as taking care of themselves, money, passports etc - there's so much to worry about when they're zooming off round the world. All I got back was a patient "yes Gran", "no Gran" - in one ear and out of the other sort of response. Carol came last night - we topped up the Kindle and everything we downloaded also jumped onto my iPad all by itself - so she's borrowing the Kindle and we have two copies of everything for the price of one. - sexy or what? I inhabit an androidinous zone.
6th November 2013
Doing a bit of daydreaming today - I've made the bed, flicked a duster - emptied the dishwasher - I now sit gazing into space wondering what to do next. I'll let you know if inspiration strikes. In the meantime... a cup of coffee. Mind you, I could contemplate my silly hat for the Writers' Christmas Lunch. Every year we have to make a silly hat that depicts a book title and then while we're eating (wearing the said silly hats) we have to guess the book titles. One year someone came without a hat but insisted that they were wearing a book title on their head. No one guessed it but it turned out to be "Gone With The Wind". I wonder if the proprietors of our chosen venue cross their fingers in the hope we won't return another year.
Jay has limped back to work today. He tells me he's had a go at making bread - watch out Paul Hollywood.
The jolly kettle has arrived - less than 24 hours after I ordered it and no delivery charge. I'm really up for protecting the planet, after all it's where we live, so I was really chuffed with Harts of Stur packaging method. Instead of those nasty polystyrene chips that worm their way everywhere the packing material was truly "green". (Accompanying leaflet explained all) It is made of wheat - obviously once I read this I had to chew one - it was a bit sticky and tasted of nothing so not much good as breakfast cereal. I put one under the tap and it dissolved into nothingness and slid down the plughole. Two chips down and two thousand to go. I read a bit more and discovered they are biodegradable and can be composted so that's what I've done with the rest of them as I'm into composting too. I can only reiterate, well done Harts of Stur.
Doing a bit of daydreaming today - I've made the bed, flicked a duster - emptied the dishwasher - I now sit gazing into space wondering what to do next. I'll let you know if inspiration strikes. In the meantime... a cup of coffee. Mind you, I could contemplate my silly hat for the Writers' Christmas Lunch. Every year we have to make a silly hat that depicts a book title and then while we're eating (wearing the said silly hats) we have to guess the book titles. One year someone came without a hat but insisted that they were wearing a book title on their head. No one guessed it but it turned out to be "Gone With The Wind". I wonder if the proprietors of our chosen venue cross their fingers in the hope we won't return another year.
Jay has limped back to work today. He tells me he's had a go at making bread - watch out Paul Hollywood.
The jolly kettle has arrived - less than 24 hours after I ordered it and no delivery charge. I'm really up for protecting the planet, after all it's where we live, so I was really chuffed with Harts of Stur packaging method. Instead of those nasty polystyrene chips that worm their way everywhere the packing material was truly "green". (Accompanying leaflet explained all) It is made of wheat - obviously once I read this I had to chew one - it was a bit sticky and tasted of nothing so not much good as breakfast cereal. I put one under the tap and it dissolved into nothingness and slid down the plughole. Two chips down and two thousand to go. I read a bit more and discovered they are biodegradable and can be composted so that's what I've done with the rest of them as I'm into composting too. I can only reiterate, well done Harts of Stur.
5th November 2013
Let the fireworks commence. Guy Fawkes looks like a plotter with worries. Bit of local info for you: in January 1606 two farmers were hanged in High Green, Wolverhampton (now Queen Square) for sheltering some of the London Gunpowder Plotters. The farmers had played no part in the original plot but nevertheless suffered the traitor's death of being hanged, drawn and quartered. Bit of a grisly end just for letting someone bunk up in your barn.
Writers' meeting was well attended - readings were of book reviews read during half term. To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee and Beloved by Toni Morrison - both novels deal with racial, class, and gender issues. Rene was able to join us this week - good to have her back and looking more like her old self. They all seemed pleased that I've given Codsall Writers' website a new look - a change is as good as a rest. http://www.codsallwriters.weebly.com
Let the fireworks commence. Guy Fawkes looks like a plotter with worries. Bit of local info for you: in January 1606 two farmers were hanged in High Green, Wolverhampton (now Queen Square) for sheltering some of the London Gunpowder Plotters. The farmers had played no part in the original plot but nevertheless suffered the traitor's death of being hanged, drawn and quartered. Bit of a grisly end just for letting someone bunk up in your barn.
Writers' meeting was well attended - readings were of book reviews read during half term. To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee and Beloved by Toni Morrison - both novels deal with racial, class, and gender issues. Rene was able to join us this week - good to have her back and looking more like her old self. They all seemed pleased that I've given Codsall Writers' website a new look - a change is as good as a rest. http://www.codsallwriters.weebly.com
A replacement kettle will soon be here - we persevered (well tried a couple of times) to make a cup of tea with the burnt one but it tasted like nuclear fallout. Just had an e-mail from Harts of Stur - they're the cheapest supplier I've found for le Creuset cookware. I ordered it this morning and already it's packed and heading our way. Worth a look if you're hunting kitchen equipment. http://www.hartsofstur.co.uk
4th November 2013
Carol's "talk-to-me-while-I-drive-to-work" phone call came at 8.30 am - I got the lowdown on Friday's fiasco on the train - and yes, some passengers were grumpy and moved further up the train to get away from the laughter. It wasn't a full blown fandango, just a
few minutes as Debbie realised what was happening and found out who was behind the masks. They had a busy two days cramming in all the sights - a theatre evening (Christopher Biggins was nearby in the audience) they finished off with a mooch round Covent Garden before heading home on Sunday. Jon and Gary had a quiet weekend - footy, telly, bliss.
Carol's "talk-to-me-while-I-drive-to-work" phone call came at 8.30 am - I got the lowdown on Friday's fiasco on the train - and yes, some passengers were grumpy and moved further up the train to get away from the laughter. It wasn't a full blown fandango, just a
few minutes as Debbie realised what was happening and found out who was behind the masks. They had a busy two days cramming in all the sights - a theatre evening (Christopher Biggins was nearby in the audience) they finished off with a mooch round Covent Garden before heading home on Sunday. Jon and Gary had a quiet weekend - footy, telly, bliss.
3rd November 2013
Bit chilly outside - I've just wasted an hour getting lost in the BBC website - I'm addicted. Loads of stuff to read and oodles of info - and one click leads to another and goodness knows where you end up. On my cyber-travels I came across the item about dogs' tail-wagging habits. Nervous dogs wag to the left and happy dogs to the right (from dog's viewpoint). Fellow canines can pick up on the tail-wagging body language. If we find ourselves watching dogs do we call it 'dogging'? Another little snippet I happened upon was the fact that Amazon's name was originally intended to be 'Relentless'. Mind you, they are pretty relentless with their e-mails once you've purchased online - they bombard our in boxes frequently and relentlessly. I found a lovely word as I was surfing - it's skeuomorphism - apparently it is skeuomorphic to use dinky little pictures or icons to indicate this is what you click on to get e-mail (i.e. little envelope) or the bin icon to delete stuff etc. The gist is that technology designers are planning to abandon skeuomorphism and eventually there will be no skeuomorphic little pictures that provide us with clues about what to click on. Now where's that going to leave us? Oh, one more thing, how does one pronounce skeuomorphism? - I haven't a clue.
Yay! Ian's team were the victors when playing the Oxford University team - one could boast they've won University Challenge. Just had a text from Carol to say they're la-de-dah-ing in Fortnum and Mason's. I bet they haven't filled their shopping baskets in there.
We're boiling water in a saucepan today: we had another of our geriatric mishaps last night. Kettle on (it's a hob one not electric). Kitchen smelled of cooking so we'd left the window open (because the extractor fan decided to die) which made life a tad draughty so all doors were closed tight. We got lost in Atlantis (TV programme) and didn't hear the kettle's whistle. The smoke alarm called us to the crime scene. One expensive Le Creuset kettle cindered inside and looking a bit browned off on the outside. C'est la vie.
Just been in the garage and found honesty and those orange lantern things that I'd left to dry. I really dislike artificial flowers - there's so much artifice in the world I'd rather not indulge in faux flowers. Anyway, I've peeled and snipped and generally tidied them up before stuffing them in vases - theoretically they're dead, but at least they're real.
Bit chilly outside - I've just wasted an hour getting lost in the BBC website - I'm addicted. Loads of stuff to read and oodles of info - and one click leads to another and goodness knows where you end up. On my cyber-travels I came across the item about dogs' tail-wagging habits. Nervous dogs wag to the left and happy dogs to the right (from dog's viewpoint). Fellow canines can pick up on the tail-wagging body language. If we find ourselves watching dogs do we call it 'dogging'? Another little snippet I happened upon was the fact that Amazon's name was originally intended to be 'Relentless'. Mind you, they are pretty relentless with their e-mails once you've purchased online - they bombard our in boxes frequently and relentlessly. I found a lovely word as I was surfing - it's skeuomorphism - apparently it is skeuomorphic to use dinky little pictures or icons to indicate this is what you click on to get e-mail (i.e. little envelope) or the bin icon to delete stuff etc. The gist is that technology designers are planning to abandon skeuomorphism and eventually there will be no skeuomorphic little pictures that provide us with clues about what to click on. Now where's that going to leave us? Oh, one more thing, how does one pronounce skeuomorphism? - I haven't a clue.
Yay! Ian's team were the victors when playing the Oxford University team - one could boast they've won University Challenge. Just had a text from Carol to say they're la-de-dah-ing in Fortnum and Mason's. I bet they haven't filled their shopping baskets in there.
We're boiling water in a saucepan today: we had another of our geriatric mishaps last night. Kettle on (it's a hob one not electric). Kitchen smelled of cooking so we'd left the window open (because the extractor fan decided to die) which made life a tad draughty so all doors were closed tight. We got lost in Atlantis (TV programme) and didn't hear the kettle's whistle. The smoke alarm called us to the crime scene. One expensive Le Creuset kettle cindered inside and looking a bit browned off on the outside. C'est la vie.
Just been in the garage and found honesty and those orange lantern things that I'd left to dry. I really dislike artificial flowers - there's so much artifice in the world I'd rather not indulge in faux flowers. Anyway, I've peeled and snipped and generally tidied them up before stuffing them in vases - theoretically they're dead, but at least they're real.
2nd November 2013
An uneventful Saturday - everyone busy doing their own thing. Bern is glued to the telly watching an old Star Wars film - Darth Vader battling the Jedi (as he always does). We did Waitrose this morning - no particular reason - just a change from Sainsbury's. Good news is that Wolves have won today, I can hear the victory texts pinging back and forth between Jay and Bern. I think they're hovering at the top of the league. Ian's Oz Rules team (Wolverhampton Wolverines) are playing an Oxford University team this
weekend - haven't heard the outcome yet.
An uneventful Saturday - everyone busy doing their own thing. Bern is glued to the telly watching an old Star Wars film - Darth Vader battling the Jedi (as he always does). We did Waitrose this morning - no particular reason - just a change from Sainsbury's. Good news is that Wolves have won today, I can hear the victory texts pinging back and forth between Jay and Bern. I think they're hovering at the top of the league. Ian's Oz Rules team (Wolverhampton Wolverines) are playing an Oxford University team this
weekend - haven't heard the outcome yet.
1st November 2013
First of the month - White Rabbits! Nothing nasty crawled out of the under-stairs cupboard last night - we weren't grabbed by the spirits (yet). I peeped in there this morning - I'm aghast at the growing ironing pile which patiently awaits my attention - maybe this afternoon... or maybe not... |
November: I always think of Thomas Hood's poem "No sun, no moon, no morn, no noon, no proper time of day... etc. etc. etc... "November..." I've heard people say it's a depressing poem but I his summing up of the season - it's a colourless month as we lunge into the dark days. I love the way November reveals the intricate tree silhouettes as the leaves disappear - the fields are cleared and tidily furrowed, the landscape painted in earth colours. I even like the melancholy crow calls as they surf overhead - it's a stark, atmospheric month - the precursor to Yuletide.
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Early morning text from Carol - she was at Shrewsbury station awaiting her train - she's off to London on a girly outing - they're doing the tourists thing, Buckingham Palace, Changing of the Guard, Covent Garden etc. Actually the text conversation has been going for an hour now - once she joins her mates I'll snatch a moment to attack my Shredded Wheat.
Another text: Carol and friends are now at Wolverhampton station wearing Queen masks. (H.M. Queen not Freddie Mercury). It's to surprise one of the girly friends who isn't aware that they are all turning up for the London trip. I can imagine their shrieks of mirth will cause annoyance to business commuters. I bet there'll be a stampede for seats far away from this giggling cohort. Hang on, another text just came in. She says there was uproar in the train compartment - I don't know if that means "we're rather cross" uproar or "laughing one's socks off" uproar. No doubt all will be revealed in the fullness of time. I can only say, brace yourself London, the girls are in town.
Another text: Carol and friends are now at Wolverhampton station wearing Queen masks. (H.M. Queen not Freddie Mercury). It's to surprise one of the girly friends who isn't aware that they are all turning up for the London trip. I can imagine their shrieks of mirth will cause annoyance to business commuters. I bet there'll be a stampede for seats far away from this giggling cohort. Hang on, another text just came in. She says there was uproar in the train compartment - I don't know if that means "we're rather cross" uproar or "laughing one's socks off" uproar. No doubt all will be revealed in the fullness of time. I can only say, brace yourself London, the girls are in town.
Blow me down with a feather - the PJs arrived before lunch and I only ordered them yesterday. Well done House of Fraser. Quicker than I could have planned the time to go to town, buy the petrol and park the car. Free delivery and the goods were half price. So you can blame the downfall of high street shops on me. Just for the record, that's not me in the picture.
Jay called in this afternoon - he's still limping but managing without his crutches most of the time. |
31st October 2013
Anyone into Cyberjammies? I love them and have several pairs. I'm rubbing my hands together this morning as I've just bought two pairs online from House of Fraser. Lovely jim-jams which usually cost about £25 for the top and £25 for the trouser part. They have some on sale at £12.40 per piece. They're traditional style pyjamas but quite trendy-ish and nicely made with interesting details. What more can I say? - PJ heaven. Whilst in shopping mode I included a pack of Sloggi briefs. Cyberjammies and Sloggies - sounds a bit sci-fi and could well be a metaphor for Dr Who v. Darth Vader. "...may the force be with you." Gussets galore! where is this going? |
Halloween (derived from the original name of All Hallow's Eve)
Samhain (Pagan) (pronounced sow'inn) A cross quarter point in the year mid-way between the autumn equinox and the winter solstice All Souls Day / All Saints Day (Christian) Last day of the Celtic year |
I can hardly let "Fright Night" go by without a pumpkin picture and a mention of things spooky.
It all came about when 31st October marked the end of the Celtic year and it was believed that the spirits of those who had died in the previous year would come back and possess a body of the living to allow themselves into the afterlife. However, the people who were living were not keen on being possessed (can't say I blame them) and would dress up in scary costumes to try to frighten away the spirits. I tend to think that In a way the church perpetuates these ancient beliefs by continuing to acknowledge All Souls Day and/or All Saints Day - the church disapproves of Halloween celebrations. I'm inclined to drop a hint such as "pot and kettle". Now back to my cauldron before I upset anyone. |
30th October 2013
What's on the agenda today? MoT for Bern's Honda. Barb is coming for a sandwich at lunchtime. Bern and I have flu jabs at four; sounds like a film title doesn't it - "Flu Jabs At Four" the sequel to blockbusting "New Knee at Three" and currently in the making "Appendix at Six". What nonsense! Profuse and abject apologies - I hurl myself to the ground and grovel.
What's on the agenda today? MoT for Bern's Honda. Barb is coming for a sandwich at lunchtime. Bern and I have flu jabs at four; sounds like a film title doesn't it - "Flu Jabs At Four" the sequel to blockbusting "New Knee at Three" and currently in the making "Appendix at Six". What nonsense! Profuse and abject apologies - I hurl myself to the ground and grovel.
I've just been listening to one of the Radio Four 2013 Reith Lectures given by Grayson Perry. An informed and eloquent speaker who, despite his personal idiosyncrasies, comes over as a feet-on-the-ground, tolerant man with the capacity to think and express uninhibited opinions about art, life, and society today, and he's truly 'switched on' to matters of the art world when it comes to unravelling the minefield of what's 'good' and what's 'bad' about art. He exudes cheerfulness and contentment - I found it upbeat and entertaining.
Had an e-mail from Denise - she has deciphered my shorthand - reading someone else's shorthand isn't the easiest thing to do so ten out of ten Denise. Maggie left a message to say she had translated it and she too had listened to the Grayson Perry item. A touch of 'great minds think alike' in there somewhere. |
29th October 2013
What shall we talk about today? I've finished my jumper but I'm going to call it cream rather than boring beige - beige carries a stigma - cream hovers a smidge above the realms of frumpy. It's only a plain one so not worth a picture. I'm going to pootle off to the Co-op now - we'll chat later. Back home again - it's bright and breezy out there and I'm going to have a cup of tea. |
I've just been pondering my thoughts of yesterday on Pitman's Shorthand. I've unearthed my old textbook and see that it cost me five shillings in 1955. The long-winded preface tells me Mr Pitman invented his hieroglyphs in 1837 - the system was originally named phonography "writing by sound" - it has been revised and improved many times. I've had this book for decades and today is the first time I've read the preface and introduction. Now that I don't need to I may finally get to grips with dipthongs and diphones. It's never too late to learn!
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28th October 2013
Happy Birthday Peggy - she's my friend in Australia who, along with hubby John and two small children, emigrated in the nineteen-sixties. We met in the fifties at Wolverhampton Polytechnic when we were learning shorthand and typing and were best mates all through our teens. I wonder if anyone learns shorthand these days. I found learning Pitman's Shorthand a grim and boring task. We had to do the full blown version which got quite complicated. (Carol learned Pitman's 2000 which was less developed but effective enough). When I think back it seems like everything and everyone was po-faced in those austere post-war days. Even the typing lessons were regimented. We sat in a long row at sit-up-and-beg typewriters that needed concerted effort to depress the keys (anathema to nice nails). The keys were covered with a piece of fabric and our hands went under the fabric - the teacher stood at the end of the row watching as we typed to ensure we didn't look at the keys. Then, believe it or not, she played a record, and we typed with military precision to a march tune. Bloody crackers! However, I did learn to touch type which is brilliant when using a computer as I can read the screen as I type. Maybe it wasn't so barmy, we were brainwashed into finding the right keys - it's a skill that comes in handy and all the quicker to churn out my daily drivel. Hope everyone weathered last night's storm - we were lucky here in South Staffordshire, it skirted round us before thundering off to Scandinavia. I rang Lesley's Mum to see if they were OK (Hampshire) but they hadn't suffered any damage - just a very stormy night. I phoned Jay to enquire after his health - he was settled on the sofa watching old RAF War movies and resting the poorly leg. |
Bern and I have managed another of our infamous "senior moments" Yesterday, in our frenzy to shift the dust and top up water in the birthday flowers we managed to spill a vase of water on a rug in the dining room. Nice breezy day yesterday and sunshine too, so we draped the wet rug over a garden table to dry off in the breeze - easy peasy, no probs, job done. Clocks had changed and It got dark early didn't it? We forgot all about the rug. Last night, although we didn't get a hurricane, the wind howled a bit and did it rain! This morning - one very soggy rug flops over the garden table and the rain continues.
27th October 2013
I'll be like a dog in a fair this week - no structure to my week during the half term break - no writers' meeting and no art class. Bern has vacuumed upstairs and downstairs and I've tatted about with a duster and cleaned the bathroom - I reckon we've gleaned an iota of energy from the extra hour and our breakfast porridge. He's gone to visit his mum now (Ethel) at her care home.
We spent the afternoon tidying up outside. I'd persuaded Bern to relocate the composter which happened to be half-full. The plastic outer was easily moved but shifting the contents was a grisly job - all the semi-rotted stuff writhing with worms and all sorts of Stig-of-the-Dump creatures, had to be moved to its new home. I wondered what sort of daft bat dreams up such stupid jobs - then remembered the daft bat is me.
26th October 2013
Overslept this morning. Never mind, there'll be a spare hour to make up for it tonight when we put the clocks back. The house looks cheerful, there's birthday flowers everywhere, I even have some in my 'den'.
Karen and Emma stayed over at Carol's last night then the three of them are hopping aboard a train this morning - they're going to Aberystwyth to visit Kate who is at university there. Not sure of the actual title of her field of study - something to do with animal care and zoology.
Looks like we have to batten down the hatches by tomorrow evening - I can hear the weather forecaster giving a storm warning - stay safe and warm everyone.
I'll be like a dog in a fair this week - no structure to my week during the half term break - no writers' meeting and no art class. Bern has vacuumed upstairs and downstairs and I've tatted about with a duster and cleaned the bathroom - I reckon we've gleaned an iota of energy from the extra hour and our breakfast porridge. He's gone to visit his mum now (Ethel) at her care home.
We spent the afternoon tidying up outside. I'd persuaded Bern to relocate the composter which happened to be half-full. The plastic outer was easily moved but shifting the contents was a grisly job - all the semi-rotted stuff writhing with worms and all sorts of Stig-of-the-Dump creatures, had to be moved to its new home. I wondered what sort of daft bat dreams up such stupid jobs - then remembered the daft bat is me.
26th October 2013
Overslept this morning. Never mind, there'll be a spare hour to make up for it tonight when we put the clocks back. The house looks cheerful, there's birthday flowers everywhere, I even have some in my 'den'.
Karen and Emma stayed over at Carol's last night then the three of them are hopping aboard a train this morning - they're going to Aberystwyth to visit Kate who is at university there. Not sure of the actual title of her field of study - something to do with animal care and zoology.
Looks like we have to batten down the hatches by tomorrow evening - I can hear the weather forecaster giving a storm warning - stay safe and warm everyone.
25th October 2013
What a day! It started with a big bottle of Chanel No 5 from Bern. My first move in the morning while the kettle boils is to switch on and check e-mails. Messages from Amazon with mad pics and video cartoons by Carol and Co and Jay and Les - they had both topped up my Amazon account for the purchasing of art materials and/or technology must-haves. Then in came Carol armed with flowers and a tin of home-baked scones. Shortly afterwards my brother and Trudie arrived - so a jolly morning scoffing, coffee and chat. Then an hour's respite before Jay and Les arrived. in the middle of their visit my sister (Wendy in Caerphilly) phoned and we chatted for half an hour, then Ian and Jenny arrived. By the time everyone had gone we managed to grab a bite of supper and Bern dashed out to top up the milk supplies. Then Andy and Raj arrived. A lovely busy day full of laughs and banter. Thank you everyone. Forgot to mention it, but you may have guessed, it's my birthday and I share it with Picasso, friend Wayne Tomlinson, Jenny's mum Carol Rodgers, and Johann Strauss the Younger - Happy Birthday one and all. October 25th also seems to have been a good day for a bit of a set to: 1415 Battle of Agincourt, and in 1854 Charge of the Light Brigade.
You may (or may not) be thrilled to learn that October 25th is St Crispin's Day - the patron saint of cobblers and shoemakers. The feast day was celebrated with great merrymaking by fellow members of the trade. Hence the very ancient rhyme
The twenty-fifth of October
Cursed be the cobbler
That goes to bed sober.
By strange coincidence my granddad and great-grandfather were boot makers and cobblers in Codsall so (begging St Crispin's pardon) I've every excuse for doling out this daily dose of old cobblers.
What a day! It started with a big bottle of Chanel No 5 from Bern. My first move in the morning while the kettle boils is to switch on and check e-mails. Messages from Amazon with mad pics and video cartoons by Carol and Co and Jay and Les - they had both topped up my Amazon account for the purchasing of art materials and/or technology must-haves. Then in came Carol armed with flowers and a tin of home-baked scones. Shortly afterwards my brother and Trudie arrived - so a jolly morning scoffing, coffee and chat. Then an hour's respite before Jay and Les arrived. in the middle of their visit my sister (Wendy in Caerphilly) phoned and we chatted for half an hour, then Ian and Jenny arrived. By the time everyone had gone we managed to grab a bite of supper and Bern dashed out to top up the milk supplies. Then Andy and Raj arrived. A lovely busy day full of laughs and banter. Thank you everyone. Forgot to mention it, but you may have guessed, it's my birthday and I share it with Picasso, friend Wayne Tomlinson, Jenny's mum Carol Rodgers, and Johann Strauss the Younger - Happy Birthday one and all. October 25th also seems to have been a good day for a bit of a set to: 1415 Battle of Agincourt, and in 1854 Charge of the Light Brigade.
You may (or may not) be thrilled to learn that October 25th is St Crispin's Day - the patron saint of cobblers and shoemakers. The feast day was celebrated with great merrymaking by fellow members of the trade. Hence the very ancient rhyme
The twenty-fifth of October
Cursed be the cobbler
That goes to bed sober.
By strange coincidence my granddad and great-grandfather were boot makers and cobblers in Codsall so (begging St Crispin's pardon) I've every excuse for doling out this daily dose of old cobblers.
24th October 2013
Art class this morning - still armed with a box if tissues and in yawn mode, it was torturous wrenching myself out of bed.
I livened up when I got there - hope I haven't passed on any germs. Maggie and Jose were there, and Hilary too, just back from her holiday in Scotland but suffering with something I've forgotten the name of but it entails swollen legs and looked very uncomfortable. Oh dear, the joys of ageing. Just yesterday I read something to the effect "don't complain about getting old, some people don't have the privilege," absolutely true of course, we're lucky to be here. Anyway, as you might guess, Roland spotted ways to improve my drawing and so Teddy had a rework - I've shortened his face and tried to make his nose look sticky-outy (I think the correct term is 3D). You must all be as bored as I am of this particular cuddly toy.
Lesley came this afternoon - she'd been to the dentist round the corner - she reported that Jay was bored already - he's an impatient patient. Jose popped in too, she hadn't seen Lesley for a couple of years so loads of chat all round. Later on I made a carrot cake in case anyone pops in tomorrow, it's iced and ready to eat and I managed to refrain from disturbing its unattacked-ness. ( I may have coined a new word there).
23rd October 2013
Still lugging a box if tissues everywhere I go - anti-bac wipes deployed - can't bear the thought of germs on my keyboard after all my high velocity sneezing. On standby at the mo - Jay's having his knee op at New Cross this morning and has to be collected when conscious and recovered from the anaesthetic - Bern's did the ambulance run this afternoon - and home came Jay hoppity-skip on crutches (we could have done with a stuffed parrot to complete the picture). Les had taken him in first thing before crawling back into bed - she's been off with flu.
E-mail from Roland to say the exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery is worth a visit. He and Pauline went yesterday but he's not a happy bunny because after parking in a disabled spot (they have a blue badge) he received a ticket for parking in a bus lane. He's seething and says he's going to "fight it to a high level". Guess we'd all better be a bit tactful and lie low at tomorrow's art class then because when Roland gets a bee in his bonnet... I've a feeling we've not heard the last of this. ab
Art class this morning - still armed with a box if tissues and in yawn mode, it was torturous wrenching myself out of bed.
I livened up when I got there - hope I haven't passed on any germs. Maggie and Jose were there, and Hilary too, just back from her holiday in Scotland but suffering with something I've forgotten the name of but it entails swollen legs and looked very uncomfortable. Oh dear, the joys of ageing. Just yesterday I read something to the effect "don't complain about getting old, some people don't have the privilege," absolutely true of course, we're lucky to be here. Anyway, as you might guess, Roland spotted ways to improve my drawing and so Teddy had a rework - I've shortened his face and tried to make his nose look sticky-outy (I think the correct term is 3D). You must all be as bored as I am of this particular cuddly toy.
Lesley came this afternoon - she'd been to the dentist round the corner - she reported that Jay was bored already - he's an impatient patient. Jose popped in too, she hadn't seen Lesley for a couple of years so loads of chat all round. Later on I made a carrot cake in case anyone pops in tomorrow, it's iced and ready to eat and I managed to refrain from disturbing its unattacked-ness. ( I may have coined a new word there).
23rd October 2013
Still lugging a box if tissues everywhere I go - anti-bac wipes deployed - can't bear the thought of germs on my keyboard after all my high velocity sneezing. On standby at the mo - Jay's having his knee op at New Cross this morning and has to be collected when conscious and recovered from the anaesthetic - Bern's did the ambulance run this afternoon - and home came Jay hoppity-skip on crutches (we could have done with a stuffed parrot to complete the picture). Les had taken him in first thing before crawling back into bed - she's been off with flu.
E-mail from Roland to say the exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery is worth a visit. He and Pauline went yesterday but he's not a happy bunny because after parking in a disabled spot (they have a blue badge) he received a ticket for parking in a bus lane. He's seething and says he's going to "fight it to a high level". Guess we'd all better be a bit tactful and lie low at tomorrow's art class then because when Roland gets a bee in his bonnet... I've a feeling we've not heard the last of this. ab
22nd October 2013
I'm not very lively today - raging sore throat and the beginnings of a brand new cold - compliments of Bern, he's had one since last week. Decided not to go to the writers' meeting today so I wasn't able to terrify them with my ghost story - by lunch time I was waging germ warfare on the world. Well, sneezing a lot and sporting a drippy nose, so it's best I don't circulate today. It's the Bake Off final on TV tonight - I'll be watching.
E-mail from Maggie to say the meeting went well and ghost stories proliferated. Raj popped in this evening to collect Andy's invoices - she was all cosied up in a pretty cardigan and off to visit her Mum while Andy attended football training. I wonder if they ever find time to eat - dashing here there and everywhere after a day's work.
I'm not very lively today - raging sore throat and the beginnings of a brand new cold - compliments of Bern, he's had one since last week. Decided not to go to the writers' meeting today so I wasn't able to terrify them with my ghost story - by lunch time I was waging germ warfare on the world. Well, sneezing a lot and sporting a drippy nose, so it's best I don't circulate today. It's the Bake Off final on TV tonight - I'll be watching.
E-mail from Maggie to say the meeting went well and ghost stories proliferated. Raj popped in this evening to collect Andy's invoices - she was all cosied up in a pretty cardigan and off to visit her Mum while Andy attended football training. I wonder if they ever find time to eat - dashing here there and everywhere after a day's work.
19th October 2013
I've had a Facebook message saying that Ian has 'tagged' me. So Hi to Ian and Jenny's friends who are visiting in response to his 'tag' and apologies if you feel I've been foisted upon you. I don't understand the machinations of FB tagging but I get the feeling it's a similar scenario to being all over the place like s**t in a cow field. Anyway - Nice to meet you and it's great you had time to visit. Just going shopping now - back later.
We popped to Pattingham after lunch to see what Jay and Les were up to. They were having a chill day so it was tea and cake on the sofa. Jay told us of his journey home after his hospital pre-med appointment. They'd given him the crutches he'll need after next Wednesday's knee op. Scenario - train about to leave - Jay running like mad holding a pair of crutches. Strange looks all round and Jay deciding that onlookers had decided he's a benefit scrounger feigning disability.
I started knitting a jumper last Monday and I'm nearly half-way. Didn't mention it before because the yarn is not quite beige but nearly. I know, weeks ago I vowed the word beige would never cross my lips again, but I inadvertently slipped down the "it will go with everything" route. Teddy drawing is about finished too. Well I think it is but I expect Roland will think otherwise.
I've had a Facebook message saying that Ian has 'tagged' me. So Hi to Ian and Jenny's friends who are visiting in response to his 'tag' and apologies if you feel I've been foisted upon you. I don't understand the machinations of FB tagging but I get the feeling it's a similar scenario to being all over the place like s**t in a cow field. Anyway - Nice to meet you and it's great you had time to visit. Just going shopping now - back later.
We popped to Pattingham after lunch to see what Jay and Les were up to. They were having a chill day so it was tea and cake on the sofa. Jay told us of his journey home after his hospital pre-med appointment. They'd given him the crutches he'll need after next Wednesday's knee op. Scenario - train about to leave - Jay running like mad holding a pair of crutches. Strange looks all round and Jay deciding that onlookers had decided he's a benefit scrounger feigning disability.
I started knitting a jumper last Monday and I'm nearly half-way. Didn't mention it before because the yarn is not quite beige but nearly. I know, weeks ago I vowed the word beige would never cross my lips again, but I inadvertently slipped down the "it will go with everything" route. Teddy drawing is about finished too. Well I think it is but I expect Roland will think otherwise.
21st October 2013
Did Carol's "drive to work" phone call. She was running late as traffic was slow and motorway conditions wet and murky - 9.10 am when she rang off and skipped through the office portal (or maybe she needed to slink in through a side door). Munched my Shredded Wheat (no added sugar, fat free, high fibre, tastes like a doormat). Then Roy came for some typing. Just finished writing my ghost story for tomorrow's homework (writers' group) and now I've set about doing Jay's repairs - zip in his Fat Face sweat shirt and turn up some trousers. Describe my day - variety. Haven't stepped outside today - the rain just hasn't stopped - although that's no excuse, skin is waterproof.
Did Carol's "drive to work" phone call. She was running late as traffic was slow and motorway conditions wet and murky - 9.10 am when she rang off and skipped through the office portal (or maybe she needed to slink in through a side door). Munched my Shredded Wheat (no added sugar, fat free, high fibre, tastes like a doormat). Then Roy came for some typing. Just finished writing my ghost story for tomorrow's homework (writers' group) and now I've set about doing Jay's repairs - zip in his Fat Face sweat shirt and turn up some trousers. Describe my day - variety. Haven't stepped outside today - the rain just hasn't stopped - although that's no excuse, skin is waterproof.
17th October 2013
Art class again - off to tackle the teddy picture from last week. I'll be growling before the sessions over trying to do the pencil shading - a new take on "Fifty Shades of Grey" involving a teddy bear, hair brushes and a bottle of Nivea. Imagination knows no bounds! And if you've peeped at the picture of Teddy's pose from last Thursday I can confirm that he has a silken rose in his hand, nothing improper is taking place.
Off to visit Rene now. She's convalescing after her two ops and she'll be needing an update on how the writing group is going.
LATER: Found Rene to be in good spirits we had loads to talk about (three hours worth). She's still rather frail and is under orders to eat more. Having said that I've not met anyone quite so "switched on" as Rene. She enthusiastically demonstrated to me the joys of her smart phone - internet access, e-mail, radio, etc. Rene is 87 and a shining example to all those dinosaurs who won't confront today's technology (you know who you are!). She was really chuffed that Pauline and Roland had called to see her earlier in the week.
16th October 2013
Blimey - wrong again! We've put the bins out and they're out there alone - two plastic monoliths marring the landscape. I've just dug out the Council's letter to reassess the situation and discovered the new system kicks in this week - our bins are to go on Friday. Now it's up to me to tip-toe outside and trundle them back in quietly so the neighbours won't know we've cocked up. Life's a trial isn't
it?
Carol buzzed in after work yesterday evening - non-stop chatter - we cruised round the internet evaluating winter coats. No decisions made - nothing much appealed so new coats are still pending.
Hair cut this morning - I suppose I'll have to explain about the chunk that's missing (I lobbed it off because it was gunged with Hammerite paint - see 30th Sept).
15th October 2013
I've been a bit more constructive this morning. Washing done and I'm optimistically going to peg it out. It's a bit of a what I call a "Keat's morning" Season of mists and mellow whatsit etc... OK for rosy apples and autumn leaves but not much cop for drying duvet covers. Roy will be here for some typing before I head off to the library so I'll abandon you for a while and grapple with the duvet cover - they're a devil with a will of their own when you have short arms.
Just back from the meeting - another new member, Andrea. Actually she was with us some 30 years ago when Codsall
Writers was founded so it's good to welcome her back, especially as she was a founder member.
Flipping heck - just went to get the duvet cover off the line. Nice and white, all dry, BUT the birds have dive bombed it with pink poo - little blighters have been eating blackberries or elderberries. Back to square one, where's the Daz?
Art class again - off to tackle the teddy picture from last week. I'll be growling before the sessions over trying to do the pencil shading - a new take on "Fifty Shades of Grey" involving a teddy bear, hair brushes and a bottle of Nivea. Imagination knows no bounds! And if you've peeped at the picture of Teddy's pose from last Thursday I can confirm that he has a silken rose in his hand, nothing improper is taking place.
Off to visit Rene now. She's convalescing after her two ops and she'll be needing an update on how the writing group is going.
LATER: Found Rene to be in good spirits we had loads to talk about (three hours worth). She's still rather frail and is under orders to eat more. Having said that I've not met anyone quite so "switched on" as Rene. She enthusiastically demonstrated to me the joys of her smart phone - internet access, e-mail, radio, etc. Rene is 87 and a shining example to all those dinosaurs who won't confront today's technology (you know who you are!). She was really chuffed that Pauline and Roland had called to see her earlier in the week.
16th October 2013
Blimey - wrong again! We've put the bins out and they're out there alone - two plastic monoliths marring the landscape. I've just dug out the Council's letter to reassess the situation and discovered the new system kicks in this week - our bins are to go on Friday. Now it's up to me to tip-toe outside and trundle them back in quietly so the neighbours won't know we've cocked up. Life's a trial isn't
it?
Carol buzzed in after work yesterday evening - non-stop chatter - we cruised round the internet evaluating winter coats. No decisions made - nothing much appealed so new coats are still pending.
Hair cut this morning - I suppose I'll have to explain about the chunk that's missing (I lobbed it off because it was gunged with Hammerite paint - see 30th Sept).
15th October 2013
I've been a bit more constructive this morning. Washing done and I'm optimistically going to peg it out. It's a bit of a what I call a "Keat's morning" Season of mists and mellow whatsit etc... OK for rosy apples and autumn leaves but not much cop for drying duvet covers. Roy will be here for some typing before I head off to the library so I'll abandon you for a while and grapple with the duvet cover - they're a devil with a will of their own when you have short arms.
Just back from the meeting - another new member, Andrea. Actually she was with us some 30 years ago when Codsall
Writers was founded so it's good to welcome her back, especially as she was a founder member.
Flipping heck - just went to get the duvet cover off the line. Nice and white, all dry, BUT the birds have dive bombed it with pink poo - little blighters have been eating blackberries or elderberries. Back to square one, where's the Daz?
13th October 2013
Anyone rushing off to Northampton today? - they're holding the World Conker Championships there. A nice outing for nut cases who are bonkers about conkers. There's a park in Suffolk called Abbey Gardens where the Council have put up a notice "beware of falling conkers". No, it's not a joke - they maintain it's a health and safety issue. No doubt some official will put up warning notices saying "beware of raindrops" - "watch out for falling leaves" - "mind your head snowflakes likely" - "acorns at two o'clock".
Bit of a dull damp day - no good for pottering outside so I might force myself to wander round with a duster and think about my 'invention' for Tuesday.
We nipped into Wolverhampton this afternoon and had a stroll round Beatties (House of Fraser). Town deserted, shop deserted, and nothing of interest to see so we came home, made a cup of tea and put the telly on to watch repeats. Such stimulating times! NOT!
I see from Facebook Jenny's already been out for an early morning run in the rain. Makes me feel a bit of a wuss. I think you're well brave Jen!
Anyone rushing off to Northampton today? - they're holding the World Conker Championships there. A nice outing for nut cases who are bonkers about conkers. There's a park in Suffolk called Abbey Gardens where the Council have put up a notice "beware of falling conkers". No, it's not a joke - they maintain it's a health and safety issue. No doubt some official will put up warning notices saying "beware of raindrops" - "watch out for falling leaves" - "mind your head snowflakes likely" - "acorns at two o'clock".
Bit of a dull damp day - no good for pottering outside so I might force myself to wander round with a duster and think about my 'invention' for Tuesday.
We nipped into Wolverhampton this afternoon and had a stroll round Beatties (House of Fraser). Town deserted, shop deserted, and nothing of interest to see so we came home, made a cup of tea and put the telly on to watch repeats. Such stimulating times! NOT!
I see from Facebook Jenny's already been out for an early morning run in the rain. Makes me feel a bit of a wuss. I think you're well brave Jen!
12th October 2013
We've just listened to Ian on WCR FM Radio doing his 15 minutes of fame - very good too (not that I understand the ins and outs of Oz Rules Footy) but I admit to being somewhat biased.
I'm trying to get the grey matter in motion over the weekend - Tuesday's writers' group homework is a bit of a challenge. We have to invent something and do a write up that will sell it.
11th October 2013
I've just been out to do a few errands and it's pretty cold today. I took my collection of £2 coins to the bank and when I plonked them on the counter in a Sainsbury's carrier bag the bank man said "would you like some little coin bags for next time?" I hadn't the heart to tell him there wouldn't be a next time - it was just a silly whim and once I'd started collecting them I couldn't stop until my little plastic pill container was full. And anyway, Bern's become fed up of me nicking the odd £2 coin from his pile of change which he leaves on his bedside table. Second thoughts... my stash amounted to £100 and it's ended up in my bank account, maybe there will be a 'next time'.
We've just listened to Ian on WCR FM Radio doing his 15 minutes of fame - very good too (not that I understand the ins and outs of Oz Rules Footy) but I admit to being somewhat biased.
I'm trying to get the grey matter in motion over the weekend - Tuesday's writers' group homework is a bit of a challenge. We have to invent something and do a write up that will sell it.
11th October 2013
I've just been out to do a few errands and it's pretty cold today. I took my collection of £2 coins to the bank and when I plonked them on the counter in a Sainsbury's carrier bag the bank man said "would you like some little coin bags for next time?" I hadn't the heart to tell him there wouldn't be a next time - it was just a silly whim and once I'd started collecting them I couldn't stop until my little plastic pill container was full. And anyway, Bern's become fed up of me nicking the odd £2 coin from his pile of change which he leaves on his bedside table. Second thoughts... my stash amounted to £100 and it's ended up in my bank account, maybe there will be a 'next time'.
9th October 2013
Early call from Carol before she set off for the Courtroom. They'll be holed up today to arrive at their verdict, she said she's going armed with sandwiches just in case it's a long job. Reminds me of my session of jury service years ago at Stafford Crown Court (the old original one) we sat on upright hard benches, most uncomfortable. It was a sombre atmosphere with the judge perched on high in his red robes presiding over a murder trial. We were all handed a bundle of photographs of the bashed about body. I'm not into blood and guts so I sort of squinted at mine through one eye and managed to make them blurry. After several days of the hard bench and listening to witnesses etc., we finally went into the jury room to do the verdict bit with a policeman outside the door. One jury member was a religious nut and got out his bible and started preaching at us. Another jury member, a woman, burst into tears crying "oh it's a shame, let's let him off." I voted for 'guilty' but he got off. I still believe justice was not done! It was an interesting experience.
Jose came this morning - we chatted, inspected the garden, looked through my bundle of knitting wool leftovers so she could find something to stitch up her jumper and had two cups of coffee each. This is riveting stuff - how to while away a chilly-ish morning.
Early call from Carol before she set off for the Courtroom. They'll be holed up today to arrive at their verdict, she said she's going armed with sandwiches just in case it's a long job. Reminds me of my session of jury service years ago at Stafford Crown Court (the old original one) we sat on upright hard benches, most uncomfortable. It was a sombre atmosphere with the judge perched on high in his red robes presiding over a murder trial. We were all handed a bundle of photographs of the bashed about body. I'm not into blood and guts so I sort of squinted at mine through one eye and managed to make them blurry. After several days of the hard bench and listening to witnesses etc., we finally went into the jury room to do the verdict bit with a policeman outside the door. One jury member was a religious nut and got out his bible and started preaching at us. Another jury member, a woman, burst into tears crying "oh it's a shame, let's let him off." I voted for 'guilty' but he got off. I still believe justice was not done! It was an interesting experience.
Jose came this morning - we chatted, inspected the garden, looked through my bundle of knitting wool leftovers so she could find something to stitch up her jumper and had two cups of coffee each. This is riveting stuff - how to while away a chilly-ish morning.
8th October 2013
Can't think why, but a sudden whim had me investigating the likelihood of dust under my desk. I grovelled amongst the spaghetti-like entanglement of computer wires and found a shameful amount. I unplugged everything and called in the vacuum cleaner. It's exercises like this that reveal the state of my knees. I was stuck under the desk draped in wires for ages before I could creakily get perpendicular again. I've a feeling the dust will have to linger a little longer in future. Writers' Group today - and I haven't done my homework. I'll be there with contrition. Meeting went well - a new member, Tess, joined us today. The library girls had made a display of our work for last week's National Poetry Day. See the one cut out like a drop of water - well that's my offering. (The event theme was 'Water'). |
7th October 2013
Barbara is coming for coffee this morning. You must think I do nothing but sit in the sun drinking coffee - I promise it's not the case. No one has seen or heard from Jay and Les so they must have spent a jet-lagged Sunday - or maybe they were washing and ironing and gearing up for work today. Carol did the drive to work call this morning - she says yesterday went well. Ian and Jenny were missing as they were in Manchester for Tom Ackroyd's birthday. Her Jury Service is on-going but the Defendant has called in sick so she's back at work temporarily.
I've given my Kindle to Carol - as the Kindle syncs with my iPad whatever she and I download to Kindle we can both access it - cool or what? Bit of a BOGOF scenario.
Barbara is coming for coffee this morning. You must think I do nothing but sit in the sun drinking coffee - I promise it's not the case. No one has seen or heard from Jay and Les so they must have spent a jet-lagged Sunday - or maybe they were washing and ironing and gearing up for work today. Carol did the drive to work call this morning - she says yesterday went well. Ian and Jenny were missing as they were in Manchester for Tom Ackroyd's birthday. Her Jury Service is on-going but the Defendant has called in sick so she's back at work temporarily.
I've given my Kindle to Carol - as the Kindle syncs with my iPad whatever she and I download to Kindle we can both access it - cool or what? Bit of a BOGOF scenario.
6th October 2013
What a beautiful day - coffee outside this morning, it was quite warm in the sun. Most of our gang are lunching out in Shifnal in honour of Raj's birthday - hope all goes well.
What a beautiful day - coffee outside this morning, it was quite warm in the sun. Most of our gang are lunching out in Shifnal in honour of Raj's birthday - hope all goes well.
5th October 2013
Happy Birthday to Rajni (Andy's partner). Ian's an A-list Celeb in this week's Wolverhampton Chronicle - I've heard he's tickled pink. At last several years of dedicated hard work are coming to fruition. James and Lesley are due home today - they've just been to grab a week's worth of sunshine in Kefalonia (unsure of spelling but it's a Greek island). We've spent the afternoon extending a wooden screen thing that hides the bins - hope the Council doesn't foist more nasty plastic rubbish receptacles on us. It would be madness or an act of terrorism - O Barmy Bin Garden. Wolves have won (again) and are nearing the top of their league. Fingers crossed. |
4th October 2013
Mike and Penny are coming for supper tonight. I've just been making an apple and bramble crumble (recipe ). Main course is a Moroccan lamb casserole thing - an easy-peasy recipe because I'm no Nigel Slater nor a Bake Off star. I enjoy watching that programme - the participants are very accomplished bakers but everything that's made is stuff we shouldn't be eating, not too often anyway. Just going to have a quick gallop round (as you do when folk are coming) bleach down the loo, flick a duster, hide the ironing in the under-stairs cupboard, etc. Our lovely Andy popped in this afternoon to type his invoices - they're celebrating Raj's birthday this weekend. He told me about the secret present he's bought for her I but can't mention it here in case she reads this. |
3rd October 2013
National Poetry Day today. Take a minute to enjoy some terse verse, sublime rhyme or a rude limerick or just an ordinary ode - no need to stanza on ceremony just enjoy the moment. Off to art class now - I'll join you later. Haven't managed a new idea yet for my next art project - oh dear. Few minutes ago I received an e-mail from our tutor, Roland; he suggests Jose and I do some drawing - set up a still life to get to grips with - it's good for the soul to get back to basics and do some observed drawing so I'll give it a go.
Turned out a bit damp didn't it? Carol rang this afternoon - looks like her jury service is going to drag on - of course she can't talk about the details of the case but she thinks it looks like being unpleasant and protracted.
National Poetry Day today. Take a minute to enjoy some terse verse, sublime rhyme or a rude limerick or just an ordinary ode - no need to stanza on ceremony just enjoy the moment. Off to art class now - I'll join you later. Haven't managed a new idea yet for my next art project - oh dear. Few minutes ago I received an e-mail from our tutor, Roland; he suggests Jose and I do some drawing - set up a still life to get to grips with - it's good for the soul to get back to basics and do some observed drawing so I'll give it a go.
Turned out a bit damp didn't it? Carol rang this afternoon - looks like her jury service is going to drag on - of course she can't talk about the details of the case but she thinks it looks like being unpleasant and protracted.
2nd October 2013
Sorry I'm late today - I've been doing some proof reading for the writers' group anthology. Maggie's working hard getting it ready for the printer and I've been doing a final check. Then Roy came for some typing, then I was hungry, and so another day has trickled through my fingers. Sorry to bore you with cyclamen again. I've just brought this one indoors. It lurks behind the garage lying on its side from spring until autumn. (Someone told me you have to lie them on their side so I do) Anyway, I noticed it had woken up again. It came to me over ten years ago when we sold my mother's house and I'm unsure how long she'd had it (the plant not the house). Every year since it has revived in early autumn in time to flower for the festive season. I'm getting a bit superstitious about it - I reckon when this plant pegs out so shall I - rather like the scenario in the grandfather's clock song. I think I'll find it some plant food to keep it going! |
1st October 2013
White Rabbits! E-mail from Carol this morning. She's on her second day of jury service and not seen the courtroom yet. She spent yesterday sitting in a windowless room with other potential jurors who were incommunicative. So out came her Kindle - aaagh! she'd forgotten to charge it! |
Good writers' meeting - we have to come up with something for National Poetry Day for display in the Library. Challenges, challenges.
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30th September 2013
Don't know where the time has gone today. I've been messing about all day and not achieved much and now it's nearly time to get the dinner ready. Haven't done any homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting, haven't started a new painting. I've probably wasted too much time on Facebook and generally frittered the day away. Oh, I did dab some Hammerite paint on a small garden table, then while I was bending close to the table the wind blew my hair onto the went paint and I've had to hack a clump off because I couldn't get the paint out (hair green, air blue with the sort of words that come to mind when your head is stuck to a tatty old garden table).
Don't know where the time has gone today. I've been messing about all day and not achieved much and now it's nearly time to get the dinner ready. Haven't done any homework for tomorrow's writers' meeting, haven't started a new painting. I've probably wasted too much time on Facebook and generally frittered the day away. Oh, I did dab some Hammerite paint on a small garden table, then while I was bending close to the table the wind blew my hair onto the went paint and I've had to hack a clump off because I couldn't get the paint out (hair green, air blue with the sort of words that come to mind when your head is stuck to a tatty old garden table).
28th September 2013
Is anyone a diary fanatic like me? I've been wondering which one to get for 2014. It's a bit nerdy worrying about next year's diary already - another of the little idiosyncrasies that seem to blight my life and tug at my heels. I love the inconsequential stuff you get in diaries - I once had one that told you the temperature in Jeddah in July (as if you need to know!) a fact you couldn't even slip into the conversation when small talk is called for. I do like those neat minimalistic Moleskine ones - I always thought they were called Moleskin as in the furry mammals, but no, it's actually a trade name with an 'e' on the end. The print is quite faint so I've had to give up on them but the extra little address book that comes tucked tidily in the back cover pocket is beguiling. Oh well, I guess this little dilemma will keep me company for a few more weeks. Maybe I'll surf Amazon later - do some diary research. I wonder if they do one for cattle farmers - a sort of dairy diary.
Just trundled a trolley round the "Aisles of Buy" - they're flogging mince pies and Christmas puddings already. I guess I've no room to talk - summer sunflowers yesterday and next year's diary today.
Is anyone a diary fanatic like me? I've been wondering which one to get for 2014. It's a bit nerdy worrying about next year's diary already - another of the little idiosyncrasies that seem to blight my life and tug at my heels. I love the inconsequential stuff you get in diaries - I once had one that told you the temperature in Jeddah in July (as if you need to know!) a fact you couldn't even slip into the conversation when small talk is called for. I do like those neat minimalistic Moleskine ones - I always thought they were called Moleskin as in the furry mammals, but no, it's actually a trade name with an 'e' on the end. The print is quite faint so I've had to give up on them but the extra little address book that comes tucked tidily in the back cover pocket is beguiling. Oh well, I guess this little dilemma will keep me company for a few more weeks. Maybe I'll surf Amazon later - do some diary research. I wonder if they do one for cattle farmers - a sort of dairy diary.
Just trundled a trolley round the "Aisles of Buy" - they're flogging mince pies and Christmas puddings already. I guess I've no room to talk - summer sunflowers yesterday and next year's diary today.
27th September 2013
Great news - DVLC says I'm OK to drive and have renewed my licence. Apparently they go through this ritual of checking if you're compos mentis and still breathing every three years once you're over seventy. You soon sit up and try to look lively when the letter arrives - after all, how do you do Sainsbury's without your car? I feel lost now - my painting's finished and the quandary is, what to paint next? I ought to tackle the doorframes on the landing, they've been neglected for far too long, a task that doesn't appeal. |
A bit of late summer in the form of sunflowers - they've taken ages due to a late start following the cold spring. Not such a good show as last year, I find them cheerful and fun.
Bern's been working on the dilapidated garden bench again - since I mentioned it here I think he's determined to prove me wrong. Which has me thinking - I wonder if I list a thousand other little jobs he might... nah, better not. |
26th September 2013
Up early today - Bern's got my car out for me (achey shoulders and the spinal stenosis thing means I can't always manage the up-and-over door) - my kit's on the back seat and it's nearly time for art class. Back later folks if I can think of something to say.
Home again: feeling happy, my picture is back on track following Roland's advice. While we were painting the Codsall Village Hall manager came to have a word with us. She asked if we would be willing to strip off, pose for a "tasteful" photo for a page of their 2015 Calendar. What a daft idea - we can hardly be described as eye-candy - most of us are ageing creaky-jointed wrinklies who look better with our clothes on. I think it'll be, "thanks, but no thanks, we don't think Codsall is up to it.
25th September 2013
I thought that little ghost who rings our front doorbell (see 20th Sept) was visiting again. I found a Facebook "Friend Request" from Dave Garrett. I thought, blimey... that's spooky. If you remember, (see 8th June) I wrote about Dave's death and the sadness we all felt at losing him. On further investigation I found that his son Karl is using Dave's Facebook page to post old photographs - a lovely way, and a modern way, to keep his memory alive. Very interesting too for many of us to look back and recall those post-war years of our youth. Thank you Karl. I've posted a picture I've nicked from Facebook on the Friends & Neighbours page (see 'MORE' on the above menu).
We had a smashing evening with Alan and Alistair - relaxed chat about all and everything and Alistair's travels to New Zealand and Australia. We saw a video of his skydive - I got vertigo just watching it on their big telly. It's six months since Anita died, she would so have loved such an evening and hearing all about the boys' adventures and achievements. But we talked about her - she was included. I'm cross with myself for not having taken a picture to show you - maybe I'll remember next time.
Up early today - Bern's got my car out for me (achey shoulders and the spinal stenosis thing means I can't always manage the up-and-over door) - my kit's on the back seat and it's nearly time for art class. Back later folks if I can think of something to say.
Home again: feeling happy, my picture is back on track following Roland's advice. While we were painting the Codsall Village Hall manager came to have a word with us. She asked if we would be willing to strip off, pose for a "tasteful" photo for a page of their 2015 Calendar. What a daft idea - we can hardly be described as eye-candy - most of us are ageing creaky-jointed wrinklies who look better with our clothes on. I think it'll be, "thanks, but no thanks, we don't think Codsall is up to it.
25th September 2013
I thought that little ghost who rings our front doorbell (see 20th Sept) was visiting again. I found a Facebook "Friend Request" from Dave Garrett. I thought, blimey... that's spooky. If you remember, (see 8th June) I wrote about Dave's death and the sadness we all felt at losing him. On further investigation I found that his son Karl is using Dave's Facebook page to post old photographs - a lovely way, and a modern way, to keep his memory alive. Very interesting too for many of us to look back and recall those post-war years of our youth. Thank you Karl. I've posted a picture I've nicked from Facebook on the Friends & Neighbours page (see 'MORE' on the above menu).
We had a smashing evening with Alan and Alistair - relaxed chat about all and everything and Alistair's travels to New Zealand and Australia. We saw a video of his skydive - I got vertigo just watching it on their big telly. It's six months since Anita died, she would so have loved such an evening and hearing all about the boys' adventures and achievements. But we talked about her - she was included. I'm cross with myself for not having taken a picture to show you - maybe I'll remember next time.
24th September 2013
I think cyclamen are the loveliest things - we have a patch of these by the gate and they've been going for weeks. The ground will soon be covered with the beautiful cyclamen leaves. They naturalise quite readily so there's odd outposts of them all round the garden. Hope the neighbours didn't see me grovelling on the patio to get this picture. As the curtains twitch I can imagine their conversations - "...that mad woman up the road...." We've done Carol's 'drive-to-work' conversation today. Seems all is well in Shrewsbury. She was enthusing about Nigel Slater's new book, he's her kitchen hero, and also a new book by Sathnam Sanghera - the Wolverhampton guy who wrote "The Boy with the Topknot". |
Had a mad dash to Sainsbury's to get a brown loaf (Co-op doesn't do our preferred one). Bumped into Roland (art teacher) he was doing a trolley dash too. Quick chat about this and that before diving up our chosen aisles.
Back again: just returned from writers' group. I cheated today. The task was to write from the point of view of an animal. I fished one out from years ago - erm... twenty years actually. After I'd read it someone suggested I send it to a magazine. I was able to say, "I already have, and here's the rejection slip to prove it." I don't even have it on my computer so I can't post it here without retyping it. (relieved sighs all round)
Back again: just returned from writers' group. I cheated today. The task was to write from the point of view of an animal. I fished one out from years ago - erm... twenty years actually. After I'd read it someone suggested I send it to a magazine. I was able to say, "I already have, and here's the rejection slip to prove it." I don't even have it on my computer so I can't post it here without retyping it. (relieved sighs all round)
23rd September 2013
Bit gloomy this morning so I disappeared upstairs to keep my easel company and I think I've finished my painting. I'm leaving it now until Roland has seen it on Thursday - he'll soon spot what it needs in the way of final titivation. I cleaned my brushes in the bathroom basin so now I have to clean the basin - one thing always leads to another doesn't it?
One of our garden benches is in need of major repair so Bern is dismantling it. It's an iron frame but needs new wooden slats. I'm considering running a book, and what odds to offer, on the chances of it ever emerging as a refurbished seat. You never know, I may end up having to eat my own words! Andy (middle grandson) popped in this afternoon. He'd spent the day doing Gas exams. Gas Safe qualifications have to be renewed at given intervals at great cost to the candidate. He wasn't too happy having spent £500 to renew the qualification plus the loss of a day's work.
22nd September 2013
What a glorious day. We've spent most of it outside snipping things and mending the fence. And yes, I managed to put green stuff in the wrong bin again so another stint of swapping bin contents. Rene phoned this morning (our 87 year-old writers group member). She was calling from the hospital - she's back in hospital having just undergone a second operation in a fortnight. She woke up in intensive care and is now back on a ward but all wired up with feeding tubes, drips and goodness knows what - she can't move out of bed. She's in danger of being bored rigid because they haven't allowed her to take her computer into hospital. She's managing to fill the time with her super-duper phone on which she accesses the Internet, she's got her Kindle in overdrive and listens to the radio, but is complaining that she can't get Radio 4. So any technophobes out there - take a leaf out of Rene's book. We call her Wonder Woman. I've heard on the grapevine that Kath and Jim Madeley at the Bilbrook Spar Shop where Rene shops, have named her Bilbrook's oldest teenager!
21st September 2013
Aaaaaaargh! I've woken up to find I've actually lived through my worst nightmare while I was asleep. That sounds rather convoluted - but it's true. The window cleaner's been and I didn't hear him, I didn't wake up. How can I ever look in him the face again? I never close the blinds completely because I like to see the moon when I'm in bed.
I've peeped round the door at my painting - I can see now what is wrong with it and I'm also going to have to move the sun (as you do) - the struggle continues... there's also a pile of washing because I get oil paint on everything and it's reluctant to come off. By the way, I finished THE sock. For some mysterious reason I now have two socks of differing size but this particular pair of socks would suit someone wearing a thin plaster cast on one foot and a fat plaster cast on the other.
The weekend is here again... and it's barely five minutes since the last one. Off to do the supermarket gallop now - I'll be back later.
Nice surprise this afternoon - Jay and Les popped in. We had tea and biscuits outside in the autumn sunshine while we sorted out the world's problems. They'd been to buy a small chain saw gadget to cut the wood for their wood burning stove. I didn't like the sound of that - I warned him to keep his feet out of the way of its jaws.
Bit gloomy this morning so I disappeared upstairs to keep my easel company and I think I've finished my painting. I'm leaving it now until Roland has seen it on Thursday - he'll soon spot what it needs in the way of final titivation. I cleaned my brushes in the bathroom basin so now I have to clean the basin - one thing always leads to another doesn't it?
One of our garden benches is in need of major repair so Bern is dismantling it. It's an iron frame but needs new wooden slats. I'm considering running a book, and what odds to offer, on the chances of it ever emerging as a refurbished seat. You never know, I may end up having to eat my own words! Andy (middle grandson) popped in this afternoon. He'd spent the day doing Gas exams. Gas Safe qualifications have to be renewed at given intervals at great cost to the candidate. He wasn't too happy having spent £500 to renew the qualification plus the loss of a day's work.
22nd September 2013
What a glorious day. We've spent most of it outside snipping things and mending the fence. And yes, I managed to put green stuff in the wrong bin again so another stint of swapping bin contents. Rene phoned this morning (our 87 year-old writers group member). She was calling from the hospital - she's back in hospital having just undergone a second operation in a fortnight. She woke up in intensive care and is now back on a ward but all wired up with feeding tubes, drips and goodness knows what - she can't move out of bed. She's in danger of being bored rigid because they haven't allowed her to take her computer into hospital. She's managing to fill the time with her super-duper phone on which she accesses the Internet, she's got her Kindle in overdrive and listens to the radio, but is complaining that she can't get Radio 4. So any technophobes out there - take a leaf out of Rene's book. We call her Wonder Woman. I've heard on the grapevine that Kath and Jim Madeley at the Bilbrook Spar Shop where Rene shops, have named her Bilbrook's oldest teenager!
21st September 2013
Aaaaaaargh! I've woken up to find I've actually lived through my worst nightmare while I was asleep. That sounds rather convoluted - but it's true. The window cleaner's been and I didn't hear him, I didn't wake up. How can I ever look in him the face again? I never close the blinds completely because I like to see the moon when I'm in bed.
I've peeped round the door at my painting - I can see now what is wrong with it and I'm also going to have to move the sun (as you do) - the struggle continues... there's also a pile of washing because I get oil paint on everything and it's reluctant to come off. By the way, I finished THE sock. For some mysterious reason I now have two socks of differing size but this particular pair of socks would suit someone wearing a thin plaster cast on one foot and a fat plaster cast on the other.
The weekend is here again... and it's barely five minutes since the last one. Off to do the supermarket gallop now - I'll be back later.
Nice surprise this afternoon - Jay and Les popped in. We had tea and biscuits outside in the autumn sunshine while we sorted out the world's problems. They'd been to buy a small chain saw gadget to cut the wood for their wood burning stove. I didn't like the sound of that - I warned him to keep his feet out of the way of its jaws.
I've just been reading the October issue of Which? magazine. There's a computer booklet included which gives loads of useful info on how to free up hard drive space. I mention this because we were talking about this very subject at the Writers' Group last Tuesday.
Another little gem I found is an article telling how minging our iPads and iPhones might be. Yuk! I only read a few lines and I was reaching for the anti-bac. It looks like our keyboards are a death trap of germs and most of our whizzo techno gadgets carry more bacteria than the lavatory seat. Ugh! I can't cope with such knowledge; the thought of armies of germs, bugs, and bacteria, doing their thing and multiplying on my stuff has me feeling queasy. I'm off to squirt, spray, wipe, rub, or in the words of the Daleks... "...e x t e r m I n a t e..." |
19th September 2013
Yay! art class starts today! I've made the bed, swallowed some toast and I'm just trying to get myself there on time - I'll be back to chat later.
Had a good morning - some new faces too. Everyone was raring to go - I've had a daub but I'm not happy with it, I'll have to push the paint round a bit more (it's oil so you can fiddle with it for ages - don't know if you're supposed to, but I do). Roland was in good form and helpful to everyone as always.
Message from Jay and Les to say their car, although it's still going, is on its last legs (or wheels) so they are busy car hunting.
18th September 2013
I'm in grumpy old fart mode this morning. I've just heard the Sugar Babes being interviewed on morning telly. Three twittering women, all nails, hair and Eiffel Tower shoes, three talking at once. Enough to make anyone's heckles rise first thing in a morning. All I could hear was the constant repetition of "I was like....blah blah blah." Then I thought about it and realised most of the young people use "I was like" instead of "I said". "He was like" instead of "He said". They don't know the difference between "like" and "said". It makes them sound thick as planks - or maybe I should be more tolerant of modern idioms (and idiots) innit.
Carol called in after work before dashing back to Shrewsbury - no news of note - everyone busy doing their daily routines. Gary's been trying to get tickets for Saturday's Wolves v Shrewsbury game but there's none to be had. Looks like they're anticipating trouble with the fans as extra police are being drafted in. The fact that this has to be done is indicative of the sorry state of the times we live in - lack of respect for the opposing team, lack of sportsmanship, and it all costs money. Overpaid footballers and dysfunctional fans. Rant over.
Yay! art class starts today! I've made the bed, swallowed some toast and I'm just trying to get myself there on time - I'll be back to chat later.
Had a good morning - some new faces too. Everyone was raring to go - I've had a daub but I'm not happy with it, I'll have to push the paint round a bit more (it's oil so you can fiddle with it for ages - don't know if you're supposed to, but I do). Roland was in good form and helpful to everyone as always.
Message from Jay and Les to say their car, although it's still going, is on its last legs (or wheels) so they are busy car hunting.
18th September 2013
I'm in grumpy old fart mode this morning. I've just heard the Sugar Babes being interviewed on morning telly. Three twittering women, all nails, hair and Eiffel Tower shoes, three talking at once. Enough to make anyone's heckles rise first thing in a morning. All I could hear was the constant repetition of "I was like....blah blah blah." Then I thought about it and realised most of the young people use "I was like" instead of "I said". "He was like" instead of "He said". They don't know the difference between "like" and "said". It makes them sound thick as planks - or maybe I should be more tolerant of modern idioms (and idiots) innit.
Carol called in after work before dashing back to Shrewsbury - no news of note - everyone busy doing their daily routines. Gary's been trying to get tickets for Saturday's Wolves v Shrewsbury game but there's none to be had. Looks like they're anticipating trouble with the fans as extra police are being drafted in. The fact that this has to be done is indicative of the sorry state of the times we live in - lack of respect for the opposing team, lack of sportsmanship, and it all costs money. Overpaid footballers and dysfunctional fans. Rant over.
17th September 2013
Ian has an exciting trip next weekend - he's captaining The England Dragonslayers in Bordeaux. (Oz Rules Footy of course - what else is there?) Picture shows Ian on the left with the coach at a recent training session. http://www.worldfootynews.com/article.php/20130916165601682 Jenny, our other sporting star, captained Lichfield Hockey Team to a 9-4 win last Saturday. Congratulations girls! |
Carol and I did her 'drive to work' chat this morning. She was stuck in a traffic hold up surrounded by people huffing and puffing with impatience and steaming up their car windows. That's one thing I don't miss - the fraught morning dash to work. Jay and Les were going to pop in yesterday after work but Andy was servicing their boiler so we had to postpone - plumber relatives come in handy. Jon's just started his last session at college in Shrewsbury to qualify for gas fitting. (the old Corgi qualification but it's called something else now - Gas Safe, or something like that).
Just back from writers' group. I braved it out and read my piece which was quite well received after all. To my surprise, it appears a few people are on the same side of the fence as me on the subject of Christmas.
16th September 2013
Washing's on, wind's blowing, just eaten toast and hugging a mug of tea.
I'm reading a book called 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett - good book but the print is so small I may have to give up on it. (I don't mean I'm reading at this very moment - I only read in bed while Bern's snoring - he says I snore too, but of course, I don't). Back to the book - the cover blurb tells me it's a best seller and was made into a film.
I've been watching some stuff on TV about film music - the how why and wherefore of music scores written for films, and how crucial they are to our perceptions of the story - the programmes are far more interesting than my description of them - recommended viewing.
Had my bum on the chair and nose on the screen nearly all day and managed to come up with a piece and a poem for tomorrow's meeting. I've written prose, rather than a story. I intended it to be an article but it's more an opinion piece that turned into something of a rant - probably a bit too controversial for comfort. I'll check tomorrow's reaction before I foist it on you here.
14th September 2013
Do you remember that daft sock I knitted way back in July - well last night I started on its mate. How's that for thrilling? Lots to ponder and peruse at the mo: I need a subject for Thursday's art class - first one of the new term. Haven't decided on the medium yet but I'm veering towards doing something that can be reproduced on our 2013 Yule cards. I also have to come up with something with a winter/Christmas theme for the writers' group anthology for publication in December. Ooh! Just had a Eureka moment - two birds, one stone and all that... I'll let you know how (and if) it evolves.
Trotted off to Waitrose just for a change from Sainsbury's. You can already see Christmas creeping into the shops - they break us in gently, sneak stuff onto the shelves. It's not full blown crackers and tinsel yet but I reckon they're just over the horizon lurking in the mist.
Just back from writers' group. I braved it out and read my piece which was quite well received after all. To my surprise, it appears a few people are on the same side of the fence as me on the subject of Christmas.
16th September 2013
Washing's on, wind's blowing, just eaten toast and hugging a mug of tea.
I'm reading a book called 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett - good book but the print is so small I may have to give up on it. (I don't mean I'm reading at this very moment - I only read in bed while Bern's snoring - he says I snore too, but of course, I don't). Back to the book - the cover blurb tells me it's a best seller and was made into a film.
I've been watching some stuff on TV about film music - the how why and wherefore of music scores written for films, and how crucial they are to our perceptions of the story - the programmes are far more interesting than my description of them - recommended viewing.
Had my bum on the chair and nose on the screen nearly all day and managed to come up with a piece and a poem for tomorrow's meeting. I've written prose, rather than a story. I intended it to be an article but it's more an opinion piece that turned into something of a rant - probably a bit too controversial for comfort. I'll check tomorrow's reaction before I foist it on you here.
14th September 2013
Do you remember that daft sock I knitted way back in July - well last night I started on its mate. How's that for thrilling? Lots to ponder and peruse at the mo: I need a subject for Thursday's art class - first one of the new term. Haven't decided on the medium yet but I'm veering towards doing something that can be reproduced on our 2013 Yule cards. I also have to come up with something with a winter/Christmas theme for the writers' group anthology for publication in December. Ooh! Just had a Eureka moment - two birds, one stone and all that... I'll let you know how (and if) it evolves.
Trotted off to Waitrose just for a change from Sainsbury's. You can already see Christmas creeping into the shops - they break us in gently, sneak stuff onto the shelves. It's not full blown crackers and tinsel yet but I reckon they're just over the horizon lurking in the mist.
Well it's here. Tread carefully if you're superstitious. I consider it all a load of mumbo-jumbo - I don't go with the thinking of misinformed scaremongers from the Dark Ages. But just in case I've touched wood.
Just been to my doc's appointment - kidneys OK and carotid approved - all's well for now. Just had a leaflet through the door to say they're changing our bin day - I wonder why. I guess when I hear the rumble of the lorry on a Friday I'm going to think it's Wednesday - oh the confusion. |
I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw this poor creature on the BBC website - it's a Blobfish. You wouldn't have to look far to find a happier chappy. He has very good reason to look so p***** off - he's been elected the official mascot of the Ugly Animal Preservation Society. Amongst other contenders for the title were the Pig-nosed Turtle, an amphibian known as the Scrotum Frog, and some delightful little mites that come under the banner of Pubic Lice. Having viewed the Blobfish I think we can do without illustrations of his fellow contestants. Hope my imagination doesn't run riot when I'm about to cook a raw, pink, floppy chicken fillet. Ugh! Another culinary thought: imagine him on your plate with a pile of chips.
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12th September 2013
Thought I'd better remind you that tomorrow is Friday 13th. It's no good you huffing and puffing, for all I know you might suffer from Friggatriskaidekaphobia or a touch of Paraskevidekatriaphobia - I'm just trying to help. |
Anyway, if you are a sufferer this little warning will give you the chance to arrange a duvet day, lock yourself in the shed, hide in the loft, curl up behind the sofa - don't forget to take a packed lunch. |
The Frigg bit of the first word is the name of a Norse goddess whom Friday is named after; the rest of it means fear of 13. (Frigg is a strange word, I'm sure I've heard it used in another context). The Paraskev etc word means an intense fear of something that poses no actual danger. Both words get used for fear of Friday 13th so take your pick.
We watched a TV drama last night - "The Wipers Times". A true story of First World War soldiers creating a satirical newspaper - so called because the British soldiers interpreted Ypres as wipers. I thought it portrayed so well the pomposity and bigoted thinking of some middle and upper class officers. It was co-written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman. Well done guys, you've documented an important slice of our social history in a very entertaining and informative film which had us watching to the end. Talking of telly - the writers' group summer read "The Reader" by Bernhard Schlink is on Film Four tonight. I shall record it.
Haven't a clue what the young ones are up to - all busy going about their business I guess. Nothing too revealing appears on Facebook these days, I guess they all know Gran is on the prowl for embarrassing pictures.
11th September 2013
Another little geriatric fun day for us - Bern's been to the hospital for a final check of the 'thing' on his kidney - no one seems to know what it is - but they've signed him off for a year.
We watched a TV drama last night - "The Wipers Times". A true story of First World War soldiers creating a satirical newspaper - so called because the British soldiers interpreted Ypres as wipers. I thought it portrayed so well the pomposity and bigoted thinking of some middle and upper class officers. It was co-written by Ian Hislop and Nick Newman. Well done guys, you've documented an important slice of our social history in a very entertaining and informative film which had us watching to the end. Talking of telly - the writers' group summer read "The Reader" by Bernhard Schlink is on Film Four tonight. I shall record it.
Haven't a clue what the young ones are up to - all busy going about their business I guess. Nothing too revealing appears on Facebook these days, I guess they all know Gran is on the prowl for embarrassing pictures.
11th September 2013
Another little geriatric fun day for us - Bern's been to the hospital for a final check of the 'thing' on his kidney - no one seems to know what it is - but they've signed him off for a year.
10th September 2013
Roy is due at 10.00 to have some typing done. Writers Group at noon - we have our lunch in the Council Offices Café before the meeting. Jane Seabourne is coming again today to do a poetry workshop. It's National Poetry Day on 3rd October so we're following their theme of 'water'. Hope we all manage to tap into the Muse and drip a few words onto paper - it doesn't always flow when you have to write on the spot. |
Talked with Jan and Rich via Facetime on iPad - I saw their granddaughters and a bit of their sofa. A brilliant technological facility but it means you have to comb your hair, put your teeth in, and tidy a room before you make a phone call. It's like Skype but a bit more versatile.
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9th September 2013
Damp squib of a morning - I'm just off to the chemist to collect my medicines - I'm wondering whether to take the wheelbarrow to haul them home. I texted the boys, Andy replied to say they were just boarding a plane. I'm always happier when I know they're safely back in the fold - the family tell me it's time I stopped worrying about them all, they're over 21, but I like to know they're home.
I've done a trip to the Co-op, if you're in need of Worcestershire Sauce they haven't any. The chemist didn't have my pills and potions ready. Today it's a thumbs down to Co-op and Lloyds Chemist for wasting my time and petrol.
7th September 2013
We are a bit dopey today - result of a latish night I reckon but all's well. We took a trip to David Austin roses but it was damp and chilly, we had a quick look round and purchased some new secateurs. There was a queue for a lunch table so we hot-footed back home and ate some of last night's leftovers. James called in later. Lesley was working in Worcester. I wish she could get a job nearer home, it's a long way to drive and sometimes means a very early start.
We watched Last Night of the Proms - a great evening's entertainment. I so love Nigel Kennedy and his disregard for convention. I thought the American conductor (Marin Alsop) handled things well when Nigel Kennedy started playing around in his final appearance - she held her own and kept things under control.
Damp squib of a morning - I'm just off to the chemist to collect my medicines - I'm wondering whether to take the wheelbarrow to haul them home. I texted the boys, Andy replied to say they were just boarding a plane. I'm always happier when I know they're safely back in the fold - the family tell me it's time I stopped worrying about them all, they're over 21, but I like to know they're home.
I've done a trip to the Co-op, if you're in need of Worcestershire Sauce they haven't any. The chemist didn't have my pills and potions ready. Today it's a thumbs down to Co-op and Lloyds Chemist for wasting my time and petrol.
7th September 2013
We are a bit dopey today - result of a latish night I reckon but all's well. We took a trip to David Austin roses but it was damp and chilly, we had a quick look round and purchased some new secateurs. There was a queue for a lunch table so we hot-footed back home and ate some of last night's leftovers. James called in later. Lesley was working in Worcester. I wish she could get a job nearer home, it's a long way to drive and sometimes means a very early start.
We watched Last Night of the Proms - a great evening's entertainment. I so love Nigel Kennedy and his disregard for convention. I thought the American conductor (Marin Alsop) handled things well when Nigel Kennedy started playing around in his final appearance - she held her own and kept things under control.
6th September 2013
Had news from DVLC - they're not happy bunnies and won't renew my licence without further medical approval. So it's DVLC v Doctors before I get a decision. To add insult to injury, I had one of those cold callers flogging stuff. A patronising, be-nice-to-old-ladies voice told me that someone at my address had walking difficulties, and would I like to buy a Quingo mobility scooter. I refrained from telling her where to stick her Quingo but I did insist she told me from where she'd acquired her information. Of course this was not forthcoming and she definitely didn't get a sale. I'm wondering, is there someone out there watching us? People in macs loitering on street corners, hiding behind newspapers, lurking in cafes, playing spot the limping geriatric. Then for a fee they shop us to Quingo sellers, life insurers and coffin makers - hence the annoying phone calls. We have some friends coming tonight whom we haven't seen for years and years and years. Many moons ago Doreen, Brian, Richard and I worked together at (H&P Ltd - a division of Turner Manufacturing, Fordhouses). We're all looking forward to the get-together, there's a lot of ground to conversation-wise. Supper's ready, just waiting for the doorbell. |
I wish we'd taken the time to do some better pictures
but we had lots of talking to do. We had a brilliant evening and we all found the stamina to yack and rake things over non-stop for about five hours. Too much to say and so little time. Jan and Rich (they used to live in Duck Lane) were down from Glasgow - Doreen and Brian live locally. Old friends are wonderful - you just pick up the threads and the years between fall away. We are all fatter (except Bern and Brian) and I turned out to be the wrinkliest, since the last time we met. I thought Brian had worn well - his only concession to ageing is a change in hair colour. |
5th September 2013
We survived last night's loft thing - no one has a fractured skull. Still haven't found the bolt so it's a simple matter of remembering to buy another one. There has to be a joke in there somewhere about Bernie the Bolt - it would only be funny to oldies who remember that programme.
Jose (aka MFJ) is coming this morning, just coffee and a chat and a tour round Facebook so she can see what her granddaughters are up to.
Later: yes we've bought another bolt. Events happen like a comic strip at our house. Bern went upstairs to attach said new bolt. He came down a while later to tell me he'd stepped down from the stool to pick something up off the floor, stood up and cracked his head on the hanging down loft hatch.
Hilary's been in touch today - she attended the Victory Painters' Group watercolour demo yesterday. I couldn't make it to this one but we plan to go to future events at Victory Hall.
4th September 2013
A magical morning - I stepped outside quite early and there was sparkling dew on the leaves and a fairyland of cobwebs. Then back to reality; put the washing on, burnt the toast, and nipped across to the doctors for a blood test. Then I went to get my hair trimmed and did the inevitable "holiday" conversation with my hairdresser.
Bern came home seething, raging, thumping the table, uttering a few choice expletives, and generally feeling a bit cross. He's been done for speeding (again). Fifty in a forty zone but the trees were obliterating the sign so he reckons an injustice has been done. He's sent a curt e-mail but we doubt it will have any effect. It'll be a fine and three jolly little stars.
We've had a joint mega moment of the senior kind this afternoon. Scenario: bin day - green bin garden stuff, blue bin recycling. Bern put the bins back in reverse order, green where the blue one usually is and vice versa. I emptied a trug full of garden rubbish into the blue bin because I thought it was the green one. Later, Bern goes out with a pile of recycling. He opens the blue bin, sees the garden stuff in it and assumes he has chosen the wrong bin. So he ups the lid of the green garden bin and fills it with cans, cardboard and newspapers. Penny drops - we've just had a scintillating half hour emptying bins and stuffing the right rubbish in the right bin. We sure do know how to enjoy ourselves.
There's another little possible dilemma coming up tonight. Bern decided to paint the drop down lid of the loft hatch. The latch that holds it closed is a bit dodgy so he removed it as we'd bought a new bolt. However, the bolt we bought can't be found - neither of us can remember where we put it. So, loft hatch lid is hanging down and is covered in wet paint. The hanging down thing is lined up with our bedroom door so when we begin our middle-of-the-night half-asleep treks to the loo someone (not me because I'm short enough to walk under it) will crack their head on the hatch. Might be a good idea to leave the landing light on tonight.
3rd September 2013
Roy is coming this morning for typing. Then it's the Writers' Group first meeting of the new term - we'll be gathering at the library to fan the literary flame and invoke the Muse. We read our book reviews and the Bernhard Schlink one, "The Reader", prompted much debate. I've submitted a couple of items this week: a 100-worder to http://cafelit.co.uk and a poem to http://lightenup-online.org/ - both are online sites - have to wait now to see if they're accepted. Then Margaret tipped up - she brought the Wolverhampton Retired Teachers Association newsletter for typing.
Disgruntled with myself today - I've done something I vowed I'd never do. I was about to leave for the library when I realised I was dressed totally in beige - are women of my age programmed to colour themselves neutral, merge with their surroundings, and become invisible? I grabbed a bright orange scarf in personal protest. Today's mantra: I will NOT become a beige blob.
Later on: had an e-mail from Alan to say Anita would have been highly amused by my beige story - they used to have a little game of "beige spotting" when they were at Weston. Elderly ladies arriving on the holiday coach with their summer handbags and "it-goes-with-everything" beige outfits proliferate there. Blimey - to think I nearly slipped down that slippery slope - HELP, purple, orange, red, save me! If you spot me in the street wearing beige feel free to give me a stern talking to. All the words that describe the colour are horrible too - sort of smooth and sneaky and there's almost something obsequious about them luring you to cower in a pallid nothing colour.. taupe, fawn, ecru, and, of course, bloody beige! Now I'm wondering, is there a woman in Britain who doesn't own a beige cardigan? I have two - and don't look at me like that, they go with everything!
2nd September 2013
Let's launch another week in life's merry-go-round - or maybe "flipping 'eck it's Monday again" would be more apt - prosaic or poetic, take yer pick. (That was a brief exercise in how to say nothing in one easy sentence but it helps fill up the page). You might also be thrilled to learn that there's a word for what I've just done - it's pleonasm - meaning the redundant use of words.
But hey-ho - Rene's coming today - I'm picking her up around midday for a bite of lunch and a chat - that will brighten up my day. Rene had a doctor's appointment so I collected her from the surgery. We enjoyed our little session: sandwich, a chat, and a mooch round the garden. We also mooched round Facebook pointing out our various relatives.
I expect, like me, you're reeling at the amount of money paid by Real Madrid for Gareth Bale and the millions involved in several other transfers - obscene, immoral, and I'll never understand the reasoning behind footballers' wages. I just wish they'd try explaining it to the world's starving and the displaced children of Syria. I don't understand how professional football can be considered a "sport" when they can purchase a place in the league table with a few million quid - there's no such thing as a level playing field these days.
We survived last night's loft thing - no one has a fractured skull. Still haven't found the bolt so it's a simple matter of remembering to buy another one. There has to be a joke in there somewhere about Bernie the Bolt - it would only be funny to oldies who remember that programme.
Jose (aka MFJ) is coming this morning, just coffee and a chat and a tour round Facebook so she can see what her granddaughters are up to.
Later: yes we've bought another bolt. Events happen like a comic strip at our house. Bern went upstairs to attach said new bolt. He came down a while later to tell me he'd stepped down from the stool to pick something up off the floor, stood up and cracked his head on the hanging down loft hatch.
Hilary's been in touch today - she attended the Victory Painters' Group watercolour demo yesterday. I couldn't make it to this one but we plan to go to future events at Victory Hall.
4th September 2013
A magical morning - I stepped outside quite early and there was sparkling dew on the leaves and a fairyland of cobwebs. Then back to reality; put the washing on, burnt the toast, and nipped across to the doctors for a blood test. Then I went to get my hair trimmed and did the inevitable "holiday" conversation with my hairdresser.
Bern came home seething, raging, thumping the table, uttering a few choice expletives, and generally feeling a bit cross. He's been done for speeding (again). Fifty in a forty zone but the trees were obliterating the sign so he reckons an injustice has been done. He's sent a curt e-mail but we doubt it will have any effect. It'll be a fine and three jolly little stars.
We've had a joint mega moment of the senior kind this afternoon. Scenario: bin day - green bin garden stuff, blue bin recycling. Bern put the bins back in reverse order, green where the blue one usually is and vice versa. I emptied a trug full of garden rubbish into the blue bin because I thought it was the green one. Later, Bern goes out with a pile of recycling. He opens the blue bin, sees the garden stuff in it and assumes he has chosen the wrong bin. So he ups the lid of the green garden bin and fills it with cans, cardboard and newspapers. Penny drops - we've just had a scintillating half hour emptying bins and stuffing the right rubbish in the right bin. We sure do know how to enjoy ourselves.
There's another little possible dilemma coming up tonight. Bern decided to paint the drop down lid of the loft hatch. The latch that holds it closed is a bit dodgy so he removed it as we'd bought a new bolt. However, the bolt we bought can't be found - neither of us can remember where we put it. So, loft hatch lid is hanging down and is covered in wet paint. The hanging down thing is lined up with our bedroom door so when we begin our middle-of-the-night half-asleep treks to the loo someone (not me because I'm short enough to walk under it) will crack their head on the hatch. Might be a good idea to leave the landing light on tonight.
3rd September 2013
Roy is coming this morning for typing. Then it's the Writers' Group first meeting of the new term - we'll be gathering at the library to fan the literary flame and invoke the Muse. We read our book reviews and the Bernhard Schlink one, "The Reader", prompted much debate. I've submitted a couple of items this week: a 100-worder to http://cafelit.co.uk and a poem to http://lightenup-online.org/ - both are online sites - have to wait now to see if they're accepted. Then Margaret tipped up - she brought the Wolverhampton Retired Teachers Association newsletter for typing.
Disgruntled with myself today - I've done something I vowed I'd never do. I was about to leave for the library when I realised I was dressed totally in beige - are women of my age programmed to colour themselves neutral, merge with their surroundings, and become invisible? I grabbed a bright orange scarf in personal protest. Today's mantra: I will NOT become a beige blob.
Later on: had an e-mail from Alan to say Anita would have been highly amused by my beige story - they used to have a little game of "beige spotting" when they were at Weston. Elderly ladies arriving on the holiday coach with their summer handbags and "it-goes-with-everything" beige outfits proliferate there. Blimey - to think I nearly slipped down that slippery slope - HELP, purple, orange, red, save me! If you spot me in the street wearing beige feel free to give me a stern talking to. All the words that describe the colour are horrible too - sort of smooth and sneaky and there's almost something obsequious about them luring you to cower in a pallid nothing colour.. taupe, fawn, ecru, and, of course, bloody beige! Now I'm wondering, is there a woman in Britain who doesn't own a beige cardigan? I have two - and don't look at me like that, they go with everything!
2nd September 2013
Let's launch another week in life's merry-go-round - or maybe "flipping 'eck it's Monday again" would be more apt - prosaic or poetic, take yer pick. (That was a brief exercise in how to say nothing in one easy sentence but it helps fill up the page). You might also be thrilled to learn that there's a word for what I've just done - it's pleonasm - meaning the redundant use of words.
But hey-ho - Rene's coming today - I'm picking her up around midday for a bite of lunch and a chat - that will brighten up my day. Rene had a doctor's appointment so I collected her from the surgery. We enjoyed our little session: sandwich, a chat, and a mooch round the garden. We also mooched round Facebook pointing out our various relatives.
I expect, like me, you're reeling at the amount of money paid by Real Madrid for Gareth Bale and the millions involved in several other transfers - obscene, immoral, and I'll never understand the reasoning behind footballers' wages. I just wish they'd try explaining it to the world's starving and the displaced children of Syria. I don't understand how professional football can be considered a "sport" when they can purchase a place in the league table with a few million quid - there's no such thing as a level playing field these days.
1st September 2013
I guess we can consider ourselves officially into autumn now. Time to tidy up the garden and gather conkers. I used to love a shiny new conker - do you remember the strange things we did to them to harden them off before threading them onto a bit of string for a game of bashed knuckles? I remember my brother going to great lengths to treat his conkers (that is NOT a euphemism ) it involved baking them and doing something with vinegar. Did you hear this morning's TV news. When I half-heard them discussing "legal highs" I presumed they meant Judges or big-wig barristers. Apparently a "legal high" is a legal substance that young people are using instead of illegal drugs to get 'high'. They're cheap, some as cheap as ten pence a go, and of course there's the evil doers who market them - another big worry for parents. |
30th August 2013
The Syria situation is alarming - I'm of the opinion that we should keep our noses out - Middle Eastern matters are so complicated and so many factions are involved that I fear we could end up fighting alongside Al Qaeda - but this isn't the place for politics so I'll say no more. It's a dun coloured morning - maybe I'll disappear upstairs and paint myself happy. I'm also in a quandary about what to read next. I have a about twelve games of scrabble on the go on Facebook - bit miffed that I'm not doing too well - I guess you win some, you lose some, chin up! I love the concept that you can play with anyone from anywhere in the world. Haven't a clue who my opponents are or where they live (except Jan Spencer in Codsall who wins more than she loses).
Haven't got the paints out yet - I ended up going through my wardrobe to see if I could chuck anything out. I parted with a couple timeworn tops but everything else verging on chuckable clung to it's coat hanger and refused to leave. While doing this I listened to and enjoyed Martin Jarvis reading a Just William story on Radio 4. Does that have anything to say about my mentality?
Just nipped back to say Maggie left a message saying Jodi Picoult books are worth a try. Hilary also left word that she and Mac had enjoyed the unusual Nigel Kennedy evening I mentioned the other day.
The Syria situation is alarming - I'm of the opinion that we should keep our noses out - Middle Eastern matters are so complicated and so many factions are involved that I fear we could end up fighting alongside Al Qaeda - but this isn't the place for politics so I'll say no more. It's a dun coloured morning - maybe I'll disappear upstairs and paint myself happy. I'm also in a quandary about what to read next. I have a about twelve games of scrabble on the go on Facebook - bit miffed that I'm not doing too well - I guess you win some, you lose some, chin up! I love the concept that you can play with anyone from anywhere in the world. Haven't a clue who my opponents are or where they live (except Jan Spencer in Codsall who wins more than she loses).
Haven't got the paints out yet - I ended up going through my wardrobe to see if I could chuck anything out. I parted with a couple timeworn tops but everything else verging on chuckable clung to it's coat hanger and refused to leave. While doing this I listened to and enjoyed Martin Jarvis reading a Just William story on Radio 4. Does that have anything to say about my mentality?
Just nipped back to say Maggie left a message saying Jodi Picoult books are worth a try. Hilary also left word that she and Mac had enjoyed the unusual Nigel Kennedy evening I mentioned the other day.
29th August 2013
Bern planted a tree today: crataegus laevigata 'Paul's Scarlet' - in plain English it's a Hawthorn that has pinky-red flowers in May. We chose it because it's bird-friendly - they like the autumn berries. On consulting the gardening book I discovered that its common name is Midland Hawthorn - very appropriate for our area I reckon.
Jay rumbled up in the old camper van this afternoon looking well tanned from their weekend camping on the Isle of Wight. Lesley is back at work but he's still off - he has a more generous holiday entitlement. Marathon chat and tea session - he said he was supposed to be building a log-store/cum hide-the-bins thing today but had only got as far as acquiring the timber so the little wooden hut that Les is expecting to see on her return is still at drawing board stage. Carol called in after work - another marathon chat. Hilary and Mac called round with some more garden produce - cooked the beans this evening - a real treat, thank you, isn't it wonderful to have green-fingered friends.
Bern planted a tree today: crataegus laevigata 'Paul's Scarlet' - in plain English it's a Hawthorn that has pinky-red flowers in May. We chose it because it's bird-friendly - they like the autumn berries. On consulting the gardening book I discovered that its common name is Midland Hawthorn - very appropriate for our area I reckon.
Jay rumbled up in the old camper van this afternoon looking well tanned from their weekend camping on the Isle of Wight. Lesley is back at work but he's still off - he has a more generous holiday entitlement. Marathon chat and tea session - he said he was supposed to be building a log-store/cum hide-the-bins thing today but had only got as far as acquiring the timber so the little wooden hut that Les is expecting to see on her return is still at drawing board stage. Carol called in after work - another marathon chat. Hilary and Mac called round with some more garden produce - cooked the beans this evening - a real treat, thank you, isn't it wonderful to have green-fingered friends.
28th August 2013
Just done the "drive to work" chat with Carol. She's pondering whether or not to buy a Kindle or an android device on which can she use the Kindle app. Inevitably the conversation turned to reading matter. She recommends a Ben Elton book called 'Two Brothers'. I've just finished reading the two books which were the writers' group summer read. 'The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox' by Maggie O'Farrell and 'The Reader' by Bernhard Schlink. I would say of both, unusual story line, unusual structure, engaging enough to have me finish them both. Our task is to review both books and read it at the first meeting of the new term on 3rd September. I'll post my effort on the Betty's Writing page. I'm a lazy reader these days, if a book doesn't hook me immediately then I abandon it - life is too short to be bored. I used to consider reading a 'difficult' or 'dry' book a bit of challenge and would plough on regardless. In retrospect it was a barmy thing to do - the only person one is going to impress is oneself - which boils down to disappearing up your own doo-da and creates the need to use the expression "get a life."
I see they've done the regular update of the online Oxford Dictionary. Loads of what I consider to be daft words are going in - none dafter than 'selfie'. A 'selfie' is a photograph someone has taken of themselves on their smartphone or similar device.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2403509/Smile-Selfie-dictionary-Word-new-entries-including-bitcoin-twerking-phablet.html#ixzz2dGkn6KGE
Just done the "drive to work" chat with Carol. She's pondering whether or not to buy a Kindle or an android device on which can she use the Kindle app. Inevitably the conversation turned to reading matter. She recommends a Ben Elton book called 'Two Brothers'. I've just finished reading the two books which were the writers' group summer read. 'The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox' by Maggie O'Farrell and 'The Reader' by Bernhard Schlink. I would say of both, unusual story line, unusual structure, engaging enough to have me finish them both. Our task is to review both books and read it at the first meeting of the new term on 3rd September. I'll post my effort on the Betty's Writing page. I'm a lazy reader these days, if a book doesn't hook me immediately then I abandon it - life is too short to be bored. I used to consider reading a 'difficult' or 'dry' book a bit of challenge and would plough on regardless. In retrospect it was a barmy thing to do - the only person one is going to impress is oneself - which boils down to disappearing up your own doo-da and creates the need to use the expression "get a life."
I see they've done the regular update of the online Oxford Dictionary. Loads of what I consider to be daft words are going in - none dafter than 'selfie'. A 'selfie' is a photograph someone has taken of themselves on their smartphone or similar device.
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2403509/Smile-Selfie-dictionary-Word-new-entries-including-bitcoin-twerking-phablet.html#ixzz2dGkn6KGE
27th August 2013
A proper Keats' morning today. You know, "season of mists and mellow fruitfulness" and all that. Scents of autumn linger in the air. Carol rang this morning just as I stepped out of the shower - we chatted while she drove to work and I wriggled myself dry in a bath robe (mobile in one hand). They've finished the decorating (Andy's old room) and plan to use it while they decorate their own bedroom - it's all happening in Shrewsbury. We still have lengthy debates about pronunciation - Shroosbury or Shrowsbury. I'm in the Shrow camp but Carol insists on Shroo. Must find out if there's a definitive answer to this conundrum. This all reminds me of Carol and Gary when they were courting - they had very heated words about culinder and colander - the thing with holes in to strain the veg. Better not drag that one up, it got quite out of hand way back. Spent much of the day pottering in the garden - it's amazing how every single day you can find a weed to pull or something to snip. Popped to the docs to arrange my next raft of appointments and blood tests - I was told that my usual GP had retired, bit of a surprise as it was only a few weeks ago that she told me to arrange to see her in September. Anyway, I was given the name of my new doctor and immediately a tune off the telly came into my head. Then I realised the receptionist had said Dr O'dair and not Kildare. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aqdrlLPR5tc&feature=player_embedded#t=54 Carol's quip when I told her the doctor story: "O'dare what can the matter be?" |
Last night I watched Nigel Kennedy's evening at the 2013 Proms on BBC I-player. I was quite "blown away" and loved the cross-cultural arrangements. I thought this was especially brave as his original recording of Vivaldi's Four Seasons is a masterpiece, a performance for which he'll be forever famous. I was touched by his generosity of spirit to the young Polish and Palestinian musicians (violin soloist only 15) - he treated them with respect and in no way flaunted his position as the maestro that he is. I wish the Divas of the Football and Pop music world with their inflated egos would learn a lesson from his book. It's gestures like this that help make the world a nicer place. No apologies - I just needed a soap box moment - so impressed was I with Nigel Kennedy's performance and attitude.
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26th August 2013
Bank Holiday Monday - and the weather has come up trumps. We went over to Ashwood Nursery this morning - lots of harvesting going on around the country. I took more pics of the countryside around Pattingham and Ashwood. Bought tulip and daffodil bulbs ready for autumn planting. Then we had a lovely afternoon chatting with Roland and Pauline under the sun canopy in their garden. We managed to sort out the world's problems between us. Needless to say, tea and cake played a role in the activities. We saw some of Roland's early paintings - absolutely brilliant - large canvasses in oils.
25th August 2013
Sorry to bang on about art stuff - we're just back from Weston Park where we saw the current exhibition in the Granary Gallery. On display were selected entries in a national competition - a diverse range of work: oils, acrylics, watercolour, sculpture, mixed media etc. Prices tags ranging from around £500 to £5,000. Just in case you're wondering, no I didn't buy one.
Had a nice ride round the lanes on the way home, mainly looking for suitable painting subjects - took a few pics of the canal at Brewood and the cornfields at Bishops wood.
Bank Holiday Monday - and the weather has come up trumps. We went over to Ashwood Nursery this morning - lots of harvesting going on around the country. I took more pics of the countryside around Pattingham and Ashwood. Bought tulip and daffodil bulbs ready for autumn planting. Then we had a lovely afternoon chatting with Roland and Pauline under the sun canopy in their garden. We managed to sort out the world's problems between us. Needless to say, tea and cake played a role in the activities. We saw some of Roland's early paintings - absolutely brilliant - large canvasses in oils.
25th August 2013
Sorry to bang on about art stuff - we're just back from Weston Park where we saw the current exhibition in the Granary Gallery. On display were selected entries in a national competition - a diverse range of work: oils, acrylics, watercolour, sculpture, mixed media etc. Prices tags ranging from around £500 to £5,000. Just in case you're wondering, no I didn't buy one.
Had a nice ride round the lanes on the way home, mainly looking for suitable painting subjects - took a few pics of the canal at Brewood and the cornfields at Bishops wood.
24th August 2013
A quick trip to the supermarket this morning for the weekly shopping - family are all otherwise occupied this weekend so we got away with shopping just for two. Jose (aka MFJ) will be here soon - we're going to pick up Hilary to see an amateur art exhibition produced by a local group (not ours) at The Victory Hall, Lower Penn.
Jose, Hilary and I enjoyed the visit. The Victory Painting Group comprised very friendly people who had some good work on display. We had tea and a chocolate brownie before our drive through the lanes back home.
23rd August 2013
I guess everyone is gearing up for the bank holiday break. Jay called in this morning, coffee, cake and chat as always. Fortuitously his weekend off has coincided with the holiday weekend. Lesley was at Bridgnorth Hospital having a bone scan - another wait and
see moment - hope there's nothing untoward discovered. Jay reckoned that riding his bike was a bit uncomfortable while wearing the gadget that holds his knee together. I suggested that he give up cycling to work for the time being as they have three vehicles but that little idea was greeted with disdain. I feel quite honoured - he's invited me to go with him to choose some specs - first time glasses for him and I think he's taken it as a bitter blow indicating that middle-age is approaching. I've heard it said that 60 is now the new 40 - so he's still young(ish). He has done the specs hunting exercise with Lesley in tow but she was reduced to laughter and it all ended as a bit of a shambles. I've agreed to accompany him and promised not to laugh. Well, as I said to him, if I do laugh then those will be the ones not to buy.
Carol has just posted a news flash here: so it's trumpets blaring, drums banging, as I announce that Emma Chappell is today's star:
GCSE results 2 x A 2 x Distinction 3 x Merit 7 x B. Well done Emma.
22nd August 2013
Marathon texting session this morning - Carol was bored at work and on such occasions we get on to a subject and then it disintegrates into stupid puns that make us laugh. I think she has the phone on 'silent' in the office but manages to fiddle with it in the desk drawer. And that's after a marathon gossiping session via mobile while she drives to work - phone on "hands free" of course. I think there's a lack of stimulating conversation at her place of work and she gets me to help her day along.
Gave my watercolours an airing this morning - thought I'd better have a go as I haven't tried watercolour for ages. The result is not worthy of parading here - better luck next time.
We have to congratulate Charlotte Bryett:
GCSE results are just in: 7 x A* 3 x A and 1 x B brilliant results. The world is your oyster Charlotte.
Bern's just taken me to collect my car. It had passed the MoT and nothing needed doing other than the general service. I fear I've just met someone who's consigned me to the "quaint old lady" category. The garage admin lady told me I'd only done 700 miles since its previous MoT and then she smiled indulgently and said "oh bless..." Must be time I acquired a Miss Marple hat and a wicker shopping basket - I'll forego the sit-up-and-beg bike.
A quick trip to the supermarket this morning for the weekly shopping - family are all otherwise occupied this weekend so we got away with shopping just for two. Jose (aka MFJ) will be here soon - we're going to pick up Hilary to see an amateur art exhibition produced by a local group (not ours) at The Victory Hall, Lower Penn.
Jose, Hilary and I enjoyed the visit. The Victory Painting Group comprised very friendly people who had some good work on display. We had tea and a chocolate brownie before our drive through the lanes back home.
23rd August 2013
I guess everyone is gearing up for the bank holiday break. Jay called in this morning, coffee, cake and chat as always. Fortuitously his weekend off has coincided with the holiday weekend. Lesley was at Bridgnorth Hospital having a bone scan - another wait and
see moment - hope there's nothing untoward discovered. Jay reckoned that riding his bike was a bit uncomfortable while wearing the gadget that holds his knee together. I suggested that he give up cycling to work for the time being as they have three vehicles but that little idea was greeted with disdain. I feel quite honoured - he's invited me to go with him to choose some specs - first time glasses for him and I think he's taken it as a bitter blow indicating that middle-age is approaching. I've heard it said that 60 is now the new 40 - so he's still young(ish). He has done the specs hunting exercise with Lesley in tow but she was reduced to laughter and it all ended as a bit of a shambles. I've agreed to accompany him and promised not to laugh. Well, as I said to him, if I do laugh then those will be the ones not to buy.
Carol has just posted a news flash here: so it's trumpets blaring, drums banging, as I announce that Emma Chappell is today's star:
GCSE results 2 x A 2 x Distinction 3 x Merit 7 x B. Well done Emma.
22nd August 2013
Marathon texting session this morning - Carol was bored at work and on such occasions we get on to a subject and then it disintegrates into stupid puns that make us laugh. I think she has the phone on 'silent' in the office but manages to fiddle with it in the desk drawer. And that's after a marathon gossiping session via mobile while she drives to work - phone on "hands free" of course. I think there's a lack of stimulating conversation at her place of work and she gets me to help her day along.
Gave my watercolours an airing this morning - thought I'd better have a go as I haven't tried watercolour for ages. The result is not worthy of parading here - better luck next time.
We have to congratulate Charlotte Bryett:
GCSE results are just in: 7 x A* 3 x A and 1 x B brilliant results. The world is your oyster Charlotte.
Bern's just taken me to collect my car. It had passed the MoT and nothing needed doing other than the general service. I fear I've just met someone who's consigned me to the "quaint old lady" category. The garage admin lady told me I'd only done 700 miles since its previous MoT and then she smiled indulgently and said "oh bless..." Must be time I acquired a Miss Marple hat and a wicker shopping basket - I'll forego the sit-up-and-beg bike.
21st August 2013
My stretch limo is going for its medical today - yes it's MoT time and poor little Panda is having its annual going over and a service. It's knocking on a bit now but as long as it's well enough to take me shopping we'll remain best mates. Andy arrived after work to do his invoices. He wasn't in need of food as it was nearly supper time and Raj was busy cooking. He told me that he has been given the "all clear" from the hospital following his knee op. |
20th August 2013
Turned out warm today so spent most of the day outside - snipping this and that, jumping on snails, slinging slugs over the fence because I can't squash those (ugh) and generally tidying up. Bern ventured onto the ladder because we noticed the ivy was nearing roof height and you don't want ivy in the soffits of your apex (sounds painful doesn't it). We try to keep it within manageable reach.
2013 Edinburgh Fringe Festival - I've put the top ten jokes on the Bits & Pieces page. (you'll find it under More on the menu above.)
We ate Hilary's beans tonight - very nice.
19th August 2013
I wonder what this week will bring. I'd barely swallowed my toast this morning when the phone went. I think we're a magnet for those annoying calls. This one, obviously calling from a distant corner of the planet, wanted to know if I had a boiler. I said "yes, I do have a boiler. I call it kettle." He hung up on me - how rude!
Then Peter came for some typing - he used to be an art teacher and still paints himself (landscapes actually, not 'himself' you understand). Anyway, we had an interesting discussion about arty stuff - like the BT ad says, "it's good to talk."
Hilary called in this afternoon - she had kindly brought runner beans and salad items from their garden. We soon got on to tea, cake and gossip. She brought news of our next painting session which will be at Val's in Shareshill, weather permitting. Thanks Val.
Bern happened to deliver to a site where a certain plumber related to Ian was working, naturally news was exchanged and he learned that our Pop Festival goers had made a geographical faux pa when buying their tickets. I'm sure they'll hate me for telling you this but - well - you've just gotta larf haven't you? By some strange miscommunication / Chinese whisper / cock-up, call it what you will, they'd bought tickets for the Chelmsford V-Festival which was happening on the same dates as the Weston Park one, and therefore had a long drive and the privilege of wallowing in southern mud rather than the good stuff on their doorstep. Facebook revealed that they had a wonderful time - so all's well that ends well.
Turned out warm today so spent most of the day outside - snipping this and that, jumping on snails, slinging slugs over the fence because I can't squash those (ugh) and generally tidying up. Bern ventured onto the ladder because we noticed the ivy was nearing roof height and you don't want ivy in the soffits of your apex (sounds painful doesn't it). We try to keep it within manageable reach.
2013 Edinburgh Fringe Festival - I've put the top ten jokes on the Bits & Pieces page. (you'll find it under More on the menu above.)
We ate Hilary's beans tonight - very nice.
19th August 2013
I wonder what this week will bring. I'd barely swallowed my toast this morning when the phone went. I think we're a magnet for those annoying calls. This one, obviously calling from a distant corner of the planet, wanted to know if I had a boiler. I said "yes, I do have a boiler. I call it kettle." He hung up on me - how rude!
Then Peter came for some typing - he used to be an art teacher and still paints himself (landscapes actually, not 'himself' you understand). Anyway, we had an interesting discussion about arty stuff - like the BT ad says, "it's good to talk."
Hilary called in this afternoon - she had kindly brought runner beans and salad items from their garden. We soon got on to tea, cake and gossip. She brought news of our next painting session which will be at Val's in Shareshill, weather permitting. Thanks Val.
Bern happened to deliver to a site where a certain plumber related to Ian was working, naturally news was exchanged and he learned that our Pop Festival goers had made a geographical faux pa when buying their tickets. I'm sure they'll hate me for telling you this but - well - you've just gotta larf haven't you? By some strange miscommunication / Chinese whisper / cock-up, call it what you will, they'd bought tickets for the Chelmsford V-Festival which was happening on the same dates as the Weston Park one, and therefore had a long drive and the privilege of wallowing in southern mud rather than the good stuff on their doorstep. Facebook revealed that they had a wonderful time - so all's well that ends well.
18th August 2013
Not a bad day weather-wise so we indulged in an entertaining exercise - Bern one side of the wrought iron back gate and me the other dabbing paint (hide-the-rust Hammerite stuff). What a jolly morning that was! I'm beginning to see signs of autumn approaching - the rowan tree berries are ripe and starlings are gobbling them up, there's a few yellowing leaves on our birch tree and small bulbs are pushing up their leaves. We have a carpet of gnawed nut shells where the squirrels have virtually stripped the nut tree, which we don't mind, but Bern 'shoots' them with his water gun when they pinch the birds' food.
17th August 2013
We trundled a trolley round Waitrose this morning - Carol and Gary are stripping wallpaper - neither activity scores high on the fun factor scale. Jay and Les are visiting Lesley's family - Happy Birthday Jack. Ian and Jenny are the ones doing something muddishly squelchy at the V-Festival.
Not a bad day weather-wise so we indulged in an entertaining exercise - Bern one side of the wrought iron back gate and me the other dabbing paint (hide-the-rust Hammerite stuff). What a jolly morning that was! I'm beginning to see signs of autumn approaching - the rowan tree berries are ripe and starlings are gobbling them up, there's a few yellowing leaves on our birch tree and small bulbs are pushing up their leaves. We have a carpet of gnawed nut shells where the squirrels have virtually stripped the nut tree, which we don't mind, but Bern 'shoots' them with his water gun when they pinch the birds' food.
17th August 2013
We trundled a trolley round Waitrose this morning - Carol and Gary are stripping wallpaper - neither activity scores high on the fun factor scale. Jay and Les are visiting Lesley's family - Happy Birthday Jack. Ian and Jenny are the ones doing something muddishly squelchy at the V-Festival.
16th August 2013
Messages from Hilary and Jose to say that yesterday's painting at Jo's went well. As you might guess they'd no sooner settled outside with kit and coffee when the heavens opened. They retreated indoors and worked in Jo's conservatory - another good day with lots of gossip. My thoughts were with them and yesterday afternoon I did a little still life. Nothing to shout about but it's good to practise. A titchy canvas 6" x 8" using oil. However, I did get it all over my hands which meant I daubed it on the taps and door handles which resulted in another half-hour of going round with cloth and spray cleaner to eradicate my paw marks. V-Festival this weekend. A couple of our young ones are doing the tiny-tent, macs and wellies experience. Their idea of Heaven - my idea of Hell. I'm sure they'll have a fun time trying to stay upright in the mud. But enough of my cynicism - it's the music that matters - enjoy. Bern's already put his two-pen'orth in by ranting about the traffic jams that held him up this morning. |
14th August 2013
I've just put on charge my phone, my I-Pad, and my camera. Makes you realise how much we rely on our gismos and gadgets to get us through the day. Watt if every ohm has the capacitor to do this and more, no wonder the National Grid gets a bit of a shock now and then. OK, I hear your groans, sorry, time for a rewire.
My intention to venture into the garden during the small hours to track down meteors failed miserably. It ended up with a quick glance through the window and that was only because I'd woken up to go to the bathroom. Didn't see a thing.
My turn at the hospital today - scan on my carotids. Sounds like a vegetable doesn't it? No doubt I will vegetate if they're too jammed up - fingers crossed and keep taking the pills. Left the house at 2.30 and arrived home at 3.30 - straight in to see scan man - very efficient. I asked him If I was clogged up and he said they look OK.
Rang Hilary, rang Jose, we're all geared up to go to Jo's tomorrow. Weather permitting, we're having another painting day outside (or as proper artists call it, plein air). So we'll be painting and drawing plein air whilst eating our cheese butties al fresco - how French is that? Must get a beret, a bunch of onions and an old bike!
13th August 2013
I wonder who stayed awake to watch the meteor shower(s). I did see one little sparkle hurtling through the night sky at about 1100 pm but obviously not the main show. I'll try to stay awake tonight.
I've just put on charge my phone, my I-Pad, and my camera. Makes you realise how much we rely on our gismos and gadgets to get us through the day. Watt if every ohm has the capacitor to do this and more, no wonder the National Grid gets a bit of a shock now and then. OK, I hear your groans, sorry, time for a rewire.
My intention to venture into the garden during the small hours to track down meteors failed miserably. It ended up with a quick glance through the window and that was only because I'd woken up to go to the bathroom. Didn't see a thing.
My turn at the hospital today - scan on my carotids. Sounds like a vegetable doesn't it? No doubt I will vegetate if they're too jammed up - fingers crossed and keep taking the pills. Left the house at 2.30 and arrived home at 3.30 - straight in to see scan man - very efficient. I asked him If I was clogged up and he said they look OK.
Rang Hilary, rang Jose, we're all geared up to go to Jo's tomorrow. Weather permitting, we're having another painting day outside (or as proper artists call it, plein air). So we'll be painting and drawing plein air whilst eating our cheese butties al fresco - how French is that? Must get a beret, a bunch of onions and an old bike!
13th August 2013
I wonder who stayed awake to watch the meteor shower(s). I did see one little sparkle hurtling through the night sky at about 1100 pm but obviously not the main show. I'll try to stay awake tonight.
12th August 2013
The Glorious Twelfth! Hope the grouse are managing to hotfoot it. Another kidney scan for Bern so we were at New Cross Hospital this morning. We went into town afterwards for a stroll round Beatties, (I should say House of Fraser). I was just dabbling about and squirting the perfume sample bottles (as you do) when who should come along but David Chandler. He said he was under instruction to wait in Café Nero for his wife Anne, and granddaughter Jessica. As you might guess we retired to Café Nero for coffee and a lengthy reminiscence session - we trawled through our seventy plus years of life in Bilbrook and Codsall. Ann and Jessica arrived and we met Dave and Ann's three month old great-grandson, Oliver, a gorgeous smiley baby. David and Bern after a caffeine fix |
11th August 2013
Andy whirl-winded in after lunch in to use the computer - he downed tea and cake while he worked. Dried a pile of washing - we'll probably take turns with the ironing with the telly for company. Jay and Les called in later - more tea and cake. Jasmine Grove café was fairly busy today.
10th August 2013
British Bulldogs v Ireland Warriors kick off - 4.00 pm. http://www.aertv.ie/#afl-live. It's going to be a nail-biting day - good luck guys.
Oh dear - heartbreak - disappointment. Our chaps were winning until the last few seconds of the game - Ireland fired the winning shot literally seconds from the end. Utter devastation all round. Commiseration Bulldogs - we feel for you. They've been the stars of the tournament and Ian had lots of mentions by the commentator today. What a cruel outcome - the angst is overwhelming.
Other things have gone awry on this Saturday - I've probably mentioned before that we're not so hot when it comes to D.I.Y. Last autumn we had replacement doors and windows. We decided that the old back door was in better condition than the garage side door. Brainwave! Swap the existing garage side door with the abandoned old back door. We finally got round to tackling it today. Before we began we measured both doors and agreed they were identical. We removed the garage door. Bunged up the screw holes where the hinges had been in readiness to attach the old back door to the garage. Easy-peasy. After messing around with tape measure, spirit level, electric screwdriver, manual screwdriver, WD40, screws, hinges, this, that, and the other, we had the door screwed in place. BUT - once in place the damn thing wouldn't lock - which was probably because the damn thing wouldn't close. Even the door frame was groaning and screaming and threatening to part company with the brickwork. The mysteries of door hanging elude us. This was followed by much muttering a few expletives and general debate. Soooooo..... we retraced our steps, unscrewed it, more bunging and unbunging of screw holes, and finally refitted the original door. A Eureka moment that proved to be not such a good idea after all, and so we're back where we started having learned another lesson in how to waste a Saturday.
Happier news: Bern (brother) and Trudie popped in for a chat and cuppa - they missed the door saga as the old one was back in place when they arrived and we didn't enlighten them about our little failure. Wolves won today. Jan Clark (Jan and Rich) left a blog message to say they'd like to meet up when they next come down this way to visit Doreen and Brian. Sounds like a good idea - I'll communicate accordingly.
8th August 2013
Quick trip to Sainsbury's this morning - another fun day! Don will be here first thing for revisions to yesterday's stuff. Have you heard today's news? They reckon cocoa can help prevent dementia and improve blood flow to the brain - now there's a licence to thrill or kill - oooh the delights of chocolate. Just typing that word makes me want some - off to hunt out the Kit-Kat that's lurking in the fridge. I buy the dark chocolate ones as they're 1 or 2 calorie lighter than the milk chocolate ones - my theory is if you eat enough of the dark ones you save quite a few calories.
Just watched British Bulldogs play Denmark - another win so they're definitely in Saturday's final v Ireland. It'll all be happening in Dublin this weekend. The Irish TV video stream was a bit intermittent but better than nothing. The link is below by where I've put the Bulldog's logo.
Andy whirl-winded in after lunch in to use the computer - he downed tea and cake while he worked. Dried a pile of washing - we'll probably take turns with the ironing with the telly for company. Jay and Les called in later - more tea and cake. Jasmine Grove café was fairly busy today.
10th August 2013
British Bulldogs v Ireland Warriors kick off - 4.00 pm. http://www.aertv.ie/#afl-live. It's going to be a nail-biting day - good luck guys.
Oh dear - heartbreak - disappointment. Our chaps were winning until the last few seconds of the game - Ireland fired the winning shot literally seconds from the end. Utter devastation all round. Commiseration Bulldogs - we feel for you. They've been the stars of the tournament and Ian had lots of mentions by the commentator today. What a cruel outcome - the angst is overwhelming.
Other things have gone awry on this Saturday - I've probably mentioned before that we're not so hot when it comes to D.I.Y. Last autumn we had replacement doors and windows. We decided that the old back door was in better condition than the garage side door. Brainwave! Swap the existing garage side door with the abandoned old back door. We finally got round to tackling it today. Before we began we measured both doors and agreed they were identical. We removed the garage door. Bunged up the screw holes where the hinges had been in readiness to attach the old back door to the garage. Easy-peasy. After messing around with tape measure, spirit level, electric screwdriver, manual screwdriver, WD40, screws, hinges, this, that, and the other, we had the door screwed in place. BUT - once in place the damn thing wouldn't lock - which was probably because the damn thing wouldn't close. Even the door frame was groaning and screaming and threatening to part company with the brickwork. The mysteries of door hanging elude us. This was followed by much muttering a few expletives and general debate. Soooooo..... we retraced our steps, unscrewed it, more bunging and unbunging of screw holes, and finally refitted the original door. A Eureka moment that proved to be not such a good idea after all, and so we're back where we started having learned another lesson in how to waste a Saturday.
Happier news: Bern (brother) and Trudie popped in for a chat and cuppa - they missed the door saga as the old one was back in place when they arrived and we didn't enlighten them about our little failure. Wolves won today. Jan Clark (Jan and Rich) left a blog message to say they'd like to meet up when they next come down this way to visit Doreen and Brian. Sounds like a good idea - I'll communicate accordingly.
8th August 2013
Quick trip to Sainsbury's this morning - another fun day! Don will be here first thing for revisions to yesterday's stuff. Have you heard today's news? They reckon cocoa can help prevent dementia and improve blood flow to the brain - now there's a licence to thrill or kill - oooh the delights of chocolate. Just typing that word makes me want some - off to hunt out the Kit-Kat that's lurking in the fridge. I buy the dark chocolate ones as they're 1 or 2 calorie lighter than the milk chocolate ones - my theory is if you eat enough of the dark ones you save quite a few calories.
Just watched British Bulldogs play Denmark - another win so they're definitely in Saturday's final v Ireland. It'll all be happening in Dublin this weekend. The Irish TV video stream was a bit intermittent but better than nothing. The link is below by where I've put the Bulldog's logo.
Yay! Whoo-hoo! Just had news that GB Bulldogs are nearer to competing in Saturday's final. Great excitement all round the family. This will be the first time they've made it to the final of the Six Nations Championship. Facebook messages are buzzing back and forth.
6th August 2013
GB Bulldogs: playing today - good luck guys - hoping you come back with the cup. Kick off at 5pm - Great Britain v Germany. The link below worked today. I've just watched the game on my PC and was so excited every time the Australian commentator mentioned Ian's name. "A good grab from Ian Mitchell." Don't know what a grab is but well done with your grabs Ian. "Great Britain never took their foot off the accelerator." Final score was GB 9.12.66 - Germany 2.3.15. Don't ask because I can't explain the technicalities and strategies of the game but the scoring is different from the sort of footie we're used to. Looks like they may well be contenders for a place in the final. |
Lunch at Pavilions
Garden Centre, Bridgnoth Road, today - summer meet-up of the writers
group.
What's on the menu? gossip, laughs, oh and food.
Mid afternoon: back from the 'do' - seven of us had a happy couple of hours. Rene couldn't join us as she's hurt her leg - get mended soon Rene. I expect Fran was busy in the shop and I think Cora is on holiday - not sure what happened to Jan.
What's on the menu? gossip, laughs, oh and food.
Mid afternoon: back from the 'do' - seven of us had a happy couple of hours. Rene couldn't join us as she's hurt her leg - get mended soon Rene. I expect Fran was busy in the shop and I think Cora is on holiday - not sure what happened to Jan.
5th August 2013
Have you been phubbed? Are you a phubbee or even a phubber? I'd not heard this word until today. To Phub is to fiddle with a mobile phone while in someone's company, rudely ignoring them while you take calls, read texts, etc. - i.e. snubbed by a mobile phone. I wonder who was first to coin the word. We've a strange word in our family, I happen know who spoke it for the first time, and we've been using it for about thirty years ever since. It's "wursting". It was 'invented' by a small child, daughter of Bern's work colleague, she was desperate to 'spend a penny' and unconsciously merged wee with bursting. I rather like the word 'wursting' - we always say it, but only when we're wursting.
Just stepped into the garden - there's a lively breeze out there this morning - I'll have to do things with garden string to stop the sunflowers being blown down. Another frisson of excitement this afternoon - we cleaned the oven with the steamer - we're number one when it comes to thinking up fun things to do. Had a text from Carol at lunch time (no, I didn't phub anyone - only me here when the message came) she'd had an equally thrilling time yesterday sorting out her pantry.
9.30pm Just found a message from Eileen - another friend who worked at Kendall White. I reckon Carol's been giving the grapevine a shake. I love it when long lost friends pop out of the ether. Apparently Saturday night was a Kendall White girlie do - with Carol, Jan, Eileen and Michelle and a couple more I don't know. [ Waves wildly at Michelle - do you remember the bleach? ]
3rd August 2013
Ian's first match of the tournament today - kick off 12.50 - good luck guys. Tried to watch it live via the link but can't make it work.
Back again and it's 9.30pm: just found a message from Ian, he says, "...beat Denmark by 10 points after being 12 down at one point..." Can't interpret that for you, all I know is they don't talk about goals in Oz Rules, but I guess they must have won today's game.
Dived out to sit in the sun between showers - dried the washing - caught up on a few e-mails to friends - popped to the Co-op - not a scintillating Saturday but we'll see what tomorrow brings.
Have you been phubbed? Are you a phubbee or even a phubber? I'd not heard this word until today. To Phub is to fiddle with a mobile phone while in someone's company, rudely ignoring them while you take calls, read texts, etc. - i.e. snubbed by a mobile phone. I wonder who was first to coin the word. We've a strange word in our family, I happen know who spoke it for the first time, and we've been using it for about thirty years ever since. It's "wursting". It was 'invented' by a small child, daughter of Bern's work colleague, she was desperate to 'spend a penny' and unconsciously merged wee with bursting. I rather like the word 'wursting' - we always say it, but only when we're wursting.
Just stepped into the garden - there's a lively breeze out there this morning - I'll have to do things with garden string to stop the sunflowers being blown down. Another frisson of excitement this afternoon - we cleaned the oven with the steamer - we're number one when it comes to thinking up fun things to do. Had a text from Carol at lunch time (no, I didn't phub anyone - only me here when the message came) she'd had an equally thrilling time yesterday sorting out her pantry.
9.30pm Just found a message from Eileen - another friend who worked at Kendall White. I reckon Carol's been giving the grapevine a shake. I love it when long lost friends pop out of the ether. Apparently Saturday night was a Kendall White girlie do - with Carol, Jan, Eileen and Michelle and a couple more I don't know. [ Waves wildly at Michelle - do you remember the bleach? ]
3rd August 2013
Ian's first match of the tournament today - kick off 12.50 - good luck guys. Tried to watch it live via the link but can't make it work.
Back again and it's 9.30pm: just found a message from Ian, he says, "...beat Denmark by 10 points after being 12 down at one point..." Can't interpret that for you, all I know is they don't talk about goals in Oz Rules, but I guess they must have won today's game.
Dived out to sit in the sun between showers - dried the washing - caught up on a few e-mails to friends - popped to the Co-op - not a scintillating Saturday but we'll see what tomorrow brings.
2nd August 2013
Wendy (my sister) rang last night to tell us of her success in changing the face of Wales. I've put the details on the Bryett's Page. Congratulations from us all in the Midlands.
Wendy (my sister) rang last night to tell us of her success in changing the face of Wales. I've put the details on the Bryett's Page. Congratulations from us all in the Midlands.
GB BULLDOGS (Australian Rules Football) No 1 grandson is Captain of the Great Britain team. He flies out to Ireland today to take part in a Six Nations Tournament. The games can be watched live (don't ask me how it works) but Ian has posted this link on Facebook. http://www.aertv.ie/#afl-live.
Good Luck Ian and the Bulldogs.
Saw on Facebook that Jenny is telling her hockey ladies that fitness training is about to get underway ready for the new season.
I sometimes wonder what it must be like in a household of two PE teachers - I imagine them doing press-ups for fun instead of sprawling on the sofa to watch TV like the rest of us.
Good Luck Ian and the Bulldogs.
Saw on Facebook that Jenny is telling her hockey ladies that fitness training is about to get underway ready for the new season.
I sometimes wonder what it must be like in a household of two PE teachers - I imagine them doing press-ups for fun instead of sprawling on the sofa to watch TV like the rest of us.
1st August 2013
First of the month - must utter "white rabbits". It's also LAMMAS: this was one of the four great Pagan festivals in Britain. The festival of the Gule of August, as it was called, probably celebrated the realisation of the first-fruits of the earth, and more particularly that of the grain-harvest. When Christianity was introduced, the day continued to be observed as a festival on these grounds, and, from a loaf being the usual offering at church, the service, and consequently the day, came to be called Hlaf-mass, subsequently shortened into Lammas. (Chambers Book of Days 1864).
I was thinking about yesterday's happenings regarding you-know-who's acquisition of the mighty water blaster. If and when you enter our garden, and just so the Health & Safety Executive doesn't get involved, could you flap your arms and water-man will think you're a bird, thus avoiding any nasty squirtings and dampness.
I'm joining some of our Thursday painting group this morning - we're invading Hilary's garden (Moatbrook Lane) all in the interests of art and maybe gossip and cups of tea. I'll be back later to let you know how we got on.
3.00pm and home again. We've had a wonderful time in a magical garden. Hilary and Mac are knowledgeable bird watchers - planting and water features are geared towards encouraging birds and they get a great variety of visitors including woodpeckers and other more unusual species. Jo had baked cheese and sweetcorn scones for our lunch picnic - lovely. We all managed two pieces of work - not quite up to hanging-on-the-wall standard, but we were happy trying.
First of the month - must utter "white rabbits". It's also LAMMAS: this was one of the four great Pagan festivals in Britain. The festival of the Gule of August, as it was called, probably celebrated the realisation of the first-fruits of the earth, and more particularly that of the grain-harvest. When Christianity was introduced, the day continued to be observed as a festival on these grounds, and, from a loaf being the usual offering at church, the service, and consequently the day, came to be called Hlaf-mass, subsequently shortened into Lammas. (Chambers Book of Days 1864).
I was thinking about yesterday's happenings regarding you-know-who's acquisition of the mighty water blaster. If and when you enter our garden, and just so the Health & Safety Executive doesn't get involved, could you flap your arms and water-man will think you're a bird, thus avoiding any nasty squirtings and dampness.
I'm joining some of our Thursday painting group this morning - we're invading Hilary's garden (Moatbrook Lane) all in the interests of art and maybe gossip and cups of tea. I'll be back later to let you know how we got on.
3.00pm and home again. We've had a wonderful time in a magical garden. Hilary and Mac are knowledgeable bird watchers - planting and water features are geared towards encouraging birds and they get a great variety of visitors including woodpeckers and other more unusual species. Jo had baked cheese and sweetcorn scones for our lunch picnic - lovely. We all managed two pieces of work - not quite up to hanging-on-the-wall standard, but we were happy trying.
31st July 2013
Another damp day but it's having great effect on our miniscule camomile lawn. It's only about 4 square yards beneath a little birch tree - just an interesting exercise trying to grow it. The day lilies have sprung into action - I love their jolly orange colour. An army of neighbouring cats use our garden as a short-cut. We love to watch and feed the birds - said cats visit us to hide beneath large leafed plants to stalk them. We often find a sorry pile of feathers and have to do a bird funeral. So....... and I tell you this through gritted teeth..... Bern has spent £34 on a toy water pistol. Yes, thirty-four quid!!! Well, it's not so much a water pistol, more a big plastic Kalashnikov look-alike. He's up and down like a flipping yo-yo squirting cats, squirrels and anything that's not feathered. Hope he doesn't get carried away and go for the postman. I can see this little exercise becoming a bit tiresome from where I'm standing. Don't suppose the cats are too happy about it either. I've a strange feeling that there'll be no peace for any of us until the darker evenings arrive.
Another damp day but it's having great effect on our miniscule camomile lawn. It's only about 4 square yards beneath a little birch tree - just an interesting exercise trying to grow it. The day lilies have sprung into action - I love their jolly orange colour. An army of neighbouring cats use our garden as a short-cut. We love to watch and feed the birds - said cats visit us to hide beneath large leafed plants to stalk them. We often find a sorry pile of feathers and have to do a bird funeral. So....... and I tell you this through gritted teeth..... Bern has spent £34 on a toy water pistol. Yes, thirty-four quid!!! Well, it's not so much a water pistol, more a big plastic Kalashnikov look-alike. He's up and down like a flipping yo-yo squirting cats, squirrels and anything that's not feathered. Hope he doesn't get carried away and go for the postman. I can see this little exercise becoming a bit tiresome from where I'm standing. Don't suppose the cats are too happy about it either. I've a strange feeling that there'll be no peace for any of us until the darker evenings arrive.
30th July 2013
Mmm... I'm just eating toast with Tiptree peach jam for breakfast. Have to award it a YYPB - the ultimate accolade in this family. Explanation: rather puerile so apologies here and now: when Carol and James were small if something tasted nice it would be "yum yum" then they had the brilliant idea of adding "pig's bum" to make it into a smutty little rhyme which sent them into paroxysms of giggles. For the sake of them not embarrassing me in public I encouraged the shortening to YYPB and so it's been in use for forty-plus years now. We all say YYPB without a thought to its original meaning - I'm surprised it's not been entered into the Oxford Dictionary.
We tried THE eggless wonder cake. Flavour good (I was heavy handed with the cinnamon but it needs it). Texture is somewhat dense and I think it might benefit from swapping the pumpkin seeds for chopped walnuts or hazelnuts. With a mouth full of pumpkin seeds I start thinking dray horse nosebag and other oaty-groaty non-delights.
Mmm... I'm just eating toast with Tiptree peach jam for breakfast. Have to award it a YYPB - the ultimate accolade in this family. Explanation: rather puerile so apologies here and now: when Carol and James were small if something tasted nice it would be "yum yum" then they had the brilliant idea of adding "pig's bum" to make it into a smutty little rhyme which sent them into paroxysms of giggles. For the sake of them not embarrassing me in public I encouraged the shortening to YYPB and so it's been in use for forty-plus years now. We all say YYPB without a thought to its original meaning - I'm surprised it's not been entered into the Oxford Dictionary.
We tried THE eggless wonder cake. Flavour good (I was heavy handed with the cinnamon but it needs it). Texture is somewhat dense and I think it might benefit from swapping the pumpkin seeds for chopped walnuts or hazelnuts. With a mouth full of pumpkin seeds I start thinking dray horse nosebag and other oaty-groaty non-delights.
29th July 2013
Monsoon Monday - everything's a bit damp round the edges today.
I've found a recipe for a healthy cake. That's an idiotic comment, there's no such thing as a 'healthy' cake. I should have said, I've found a recipe for a cake less unhealthy than usual. It contains pumpkin seeds, hasn't any eggs, no butter, just vegetable oil (I use rapeseed oil it's the lowest in fat). Past experience tells me that anything low-fat and full of fibre tastes like a bloody doormat, but I'll give it a whirl and let you know if it's worth the effort.
I've had two enquires already about the no-egg cake. I'll put the recipe on the Homemade page. Cora (writers' group) contacted me because her granddaughter has been diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis which, in this particular case, includes an allergy to eggs so I've already e-mailed the recipe. It's from a BBC publication called "101 CAKES & BAKES tried and tested recipes."
Monsoon Monday - everything's a bit damp round the edges today.
I've found a recipe for a healthy cake. That's an idiotic comment, there's no such thing as a 'healthy' cake. I should have said, I've found a recipe for a cake less unhealthy than usual. It contains pumpkin seeds, hasn't any eggs, no butter, just vegetable oil (I use rapeseed oil it's the lowest in fat). Past experience tells me that anything low-fat and full of fibre tastes like a bloody doormat, but I'll give it a whirl and let you know if it's worth the effort.
I've had two enquires already about the no-egg cake. I'll put the recipe on the Homemade page. Cora (writers' group) contacted me because her granddaughter has been diagnosed with Eosinophilic Esophagitis which, in this particular case, includes an allergy to eggs so I've already e-mailed the recipe. It's from a BBC publication called "101 CAKES & BAKES tried and tested recipes."
Jay popped in this afternoon with tales of London. They enjoyed their trip and managed to fit in their planned visits. They also saw the giant blue cockerel that's been placed in Trafalgar Square. I wonder what Nelson thinks of it as he gazes down from his column.
He'd had a hospital appointment this afternoon (James not the cockerel) and was fitted with a gadget to support his knee (long story of various injuries - some in the forces and one leaping about playing beach volley ball in Vietnam). Anyway, they've given him this convoluted gismo to strap to his leg. He's going to have an op very soon to rectify a torn something or other so that might well fix things and he can abandon the contraption.
He'd had a hospital appointment this afternoon (James not the cockerel) and was fitted with a gadget to support his knee (long story of various injuries - some in the forces and one leaping about playing beach volley ball in Vietnam). Anyway, they've given him this convoluted gismo to strap to his leg. He's going to have an op very soon to rectify a torn something or other so that might well fix things and he can abandon the contraption.
28th July 2013
This morning Bern is up a ladder fiddling in the gutter (I said fiddling not the rhyming word beginning with P ). Stuff washed down from somewhere and caused a blockage, water cascaded where it shouldn't in last night's downpour. The water butts are topped up and the garden looks livelier and thankful for the rain. I'm just going to gather up some cyclamen seeds and spread them around in odd corners - they soon naturalise - we have them popping up all over the place through the gravel. I think random little patches of green help eliminate the "concrete city" look.
We nipped over to Shrewsbury this afternoon - the boys were visiting so we managed to catch up with all three grandsons and Jenny and Raj. We partook of a particularly good scone and plum jam (Carol likes baking) but declined the offer of supper with them all - there was a massive pan of paella being prepared but we wanted to get home before the rain returned and the ironing I'd hidden was still waiting.
Phoned Jay and Les to see if they were home - learned later that I'd set his phone going while they were in a "no phones" compartment on the train. Oops!
This morning Bern is up a ladder fiddling in the gutter (I said fiddling not the rhyming word beginning with P ). Stuff washed down from somewhere and caused a blockage, water cascaded where it shouldn't in last night's downpour. The water butts are topped up and the garden looks livelier and thankful for the rain. I'm just going to gather up some cyclamen seeds and spread them around in odd corners - they soon naturalise - we have them popping up all over the place through the gravel. I think random little patches of green help eliminate the "concrete city" look.
We nipped over to Shrewsbury this afternoon - the boys were visiting so we managed to catch up with all three grandsons and Jenny and Raj. We partook of a particularly good scone and plum jam (Carol likes baking) but declined the offer of supper with them all - there was a massive pan of paella being prepared but we wanted to get home before the rain returned and the ironing I'd hidden was still waiting.
Phoned Jay and Les to see if they were home - learned later that I'd set his phone going while they were in a "no phones" compartment on the train. Oops!
27th July 2013
Long telephone chat with Carol this morning exchanging holiday news. She recommended a good book: "Valentine Grey" by Sandi Toksvig. All's well in Shrewsbury and they're now eating home-grown veg - well done Gary Muddy Boots Titchmarsh Mitchell.
Just back from Waitrose (daren't tell my brother, he swears by Aldi, especially their marmalade). We flopped on the garden bench with a tray of coffee - it's so hot and humid. I wonder if the forecasted rain will arrive. I'm reluctant to relinquish the hot weather but I guess we need a spot of rain to clear the air.
We pruned a couple of trees this afternoon to let a bit of daylight into Happy Hollow.
Long telephone chat with Carol this morning exchanging holiday news. She recommended a good book: "Valentine Grey" by Sandi Toksvig. All's well in Shrewsbury and they're now eating home-grown veg - well done Gary Muddy Boots Titchmarsh Mitchell.
Just back from Waitrose (daren't tell my brother, he swears by Aldi, especially their marmalade). We flopped on the garden bench with a tray of coffee - it's so hot and humid. I wonder if the forecasted rain will arrive. I'm reluctant to relinquish the hot weather but I guess we need a spot of rain to clear the air.
We pruned a couple of trees this afternoon to let a bit of daylight into Happy Hollow.
26th July 2013
The front garden Yucca is enjoying the heat wave - it has 14 flower spikes this year.
I've been an absolute lazy bones today - bit of reading - bit of weeding - tea, coffee, sandwiches in the garden interspersing my lazy hours. I'm a veritable slob. The ironing is hidden in the under-stairs cupboard - out of sight, out of mind. I noticed the blinds need a good dusting then decided that with the windows open all the time the dust might wander off of its own accord.
Summer read for the writers' group is proving good (I'm still on book one and enjoying it) "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox" by Maggie O'Farrell.
The front garden Yucca is enjoying the heat wave - it has 14 flower spikes this year.
I've been an absolute lazy bones today - bit of reading - bit of weeding - tea, coffee, sandwiches in the garden interspersing my lazy hours. I'm a veritable slob. The ironing is hidden in the under-stairs cupboard - out of sight, out of mind. I noticed the blinds need a good dusting then decided that with the windows open all the time the dust might wander off of its own accord.
Summer read for the writers' group is proving good (I'm still on book one and enjoying it) "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox" by Maggie O'Farrell.
25th July 2013
Jose (MFJ) rang this morning - they've been away too. We arranged to have a catch up next week. Had an e-mail from Hilary (painters' group) inviting us all to a painting session in her garden - Thursday 1st. Sounds good if the weather holds out. Bern's busy washing the car - we're not keen car-washers but the 'deposits' are now crisp and crunchy and need removing.
Two for typing today - Don and Roy - Syd sent some yesterday via e-mail.
Jose (MFJ) rang this morning - they've been away too. We arranged to have a catch up next week. Had an e-mail from Hilary (painters' group) inviting us all to a painting session in her garden - Thursday 1st. Sounds good if the weather holds out. Bern's busy washing the car - we're not keen car-washers but the 'deposits' are now crisp and crunchy and need removing.
Two for typing today - Don and Roy - Syd sent some yesterday via e-mail.
24th July 2013
The gulls were particularly noisy in the night. Everyone moaned about them at breakfast. We travel home today so it was Bern's final indulgence in a full English. The seagulls have reciprocated our grudge against them by caking our car in nasty stuff. We stopped off at Bodnant Gardens near Betws-y-Coed for coffee. We didn't do the full trek round the gardens as it was too hot and so we were home by early afternoon.
The gulls were particularly noisy in the night. Everyone moaned about them at breakfast. We travel home today so it was Bern's final indulgence in a full English. The seagulls have reciprocated our grudge against them by caking our car in nasty stuff. We stopped off at Bodnant Gardens near Betws-y-Coed for coffee. We didn't do the full trek round the gardens as it was too hot and so we were home by early afternoon.
22nd July 2013
Happy Birthday David (Lesley's brother). Bit of news for you - the seagulls in Llandudno never sleep. They're greedy and aggressive and feeding them is suicide - don't do it unless you want to feel like a character in the Hitchcock film, "The Birds". There were lots of jackdaws hopping round the beach (I think they were jackdaws) pecking at dried out patches of seaweed. Our hotel is directly opposite the train. This resort is well suited to the very young and the very old - mobility scooters proliferate and there's swarms of chirpy oldies whizzing along the promenade, footpaths, and 'doing' the shops. Another year or two and I reckon we'll be joining them. (Aaargh! perish the thought!). |
21st July 2013
We tootled off to Llandudno this morning - we haven't been there for many years and were unsure what it would be like. It's perfect seaside weather at the moment. When we arrived donkeys were plodding up and down the beach, Punch and Judy were in good voice and so was their audience. The pier teemed with folk surfing the sideshows and the usual seaside junk. We are in the St Tudno hotel for three nights. It has a bit of an Alice in Wonderland connection. Alice Liddell, the girl for whom Lewis Carroll wrote the Alice stories stayed there in the 1800s. Very pleased with the hotel and the food - everything is exceptional and the staff friendly and helpful. We only have to walk across the road to the promenade. Seems it's the place to be - the world and his dog stroll there. |
20th July 2013
Up early, window cleaner day, even got the bed made before he peeped in. Home all day - we shared the housework - washing - ironing - thrilling (NOT!)
Up early, window cleaner day, even got the bed made before he peeped in. Home all day - we shared the housework - washing - ironing - thrilling (NOT!)
19th July 2013
Phew! Mops brow. The weather has zapped me today so there's not much happening. Washed the duvet cover and bedding but that comes in the "don't need to know" category - boring. Found a corner even cooler than under the holly tree - it's down in a dip and we call it Happy Hollow (OK, I know, middle grandson has already told me I'm off my head) - very shady, nice breeze, but "stuff" from the trees lands in your coffee. The tree on the right has nuts so there's usually a marauding squirrel - he starts on them before they're anywhere near ripe. Carol phoned from Mwnt (Wales) they were watching seals and dolphins and found time to rove around old haunts in the area where Gary's Mum and Dad used to have a caravan - we all spent happy days there many moons ago. |
18th July 2013
Doctor's at 10.00 this morning - potassium OK and don't have to go again until September.
Bern (hubby not brother) was on the A5 near Cannock today - he spotted a notice declaring "Christmas Trees available from November". Who the hell wants to think about Christmas trees in July?
Doctor's at 10.00 this morning - potassium OK and don't have to go again until September.
Bern (hubby not brother) was on the A5 near Cannock today - he spotted a notice declaring "Christmas Trees available from November". Who the hell wants to think about Christmas trees in July?
17th July 2013
Isn't this weather glorious? I'm managing to keep the house cool - windows open, blinds tilted, fan when required. So cool in fact I have to go outside for a warm. We're out to dinner tonight - we're invited to Bernard and Trudie's (brother). Wendy and Phil (sister) will be there as they're up from Caerphilly to have their car serviced (don't ask - about as logical as my having a warm outside). Heard the chug of the camper van around lunchtime and yes, it was Jay. He was on a rest day - all's well in Pattingham and they're pondering their next foreign holiday later in the year.
Had a lovely evening at Bern and Trudie's - supper alfresco on a sultry summer evening - idyllic. Or as someone put it (colour of shirt begins with P) "we 'ad we tay in the gardin and it wore arf 'ot, but we 'ad a good loff." Ooh, just noticed from the pic, they have net curtains in their shed - posh or what?. Bern allowed me inside his shed, I saw the 32 year old Sunbeam bicycle he's renovating - not quite a penny-farthing but it looked a bit cumbersome - don't think I'd like to pedal it uphill. "It has a Brookes saddle," He patted the dried leather as if it were gold and I sensed the excitement in his voice. I'm afraid the discovery of a Rolls-Royce of a bike saddle was wasted on me and one ponders whose and how many gussets it has seen?
I like Wendy's new short hair-cut - she has a smashing tan from grubbing about on their allotment. Chickens haven't arrived yet but I believe they're still in the pipeline (metaphorically of course).
Isn't this weather glorious? I'm managing to keep the house cool - windows open, blinds tilted, fan when required. So cool in fact I have to go outside for a warm. We're out to dinner tonight - we're invited to Bernard and Trudie's (brother). Wendy and Phil (sister) will be there as they're up from Caerphilly to have their car serviced (don't ask - about as logical as my having a warm outside). Heard the chug of the camper van around lunchtime and yes, it was Jay. He was on a rest day - all's well in Pattingham and they're pondering their next foreign holiday later in the year.
Had a lovely evening at Bern and Trudie's - supper alfresco on a sultry summer evening - idyllic. Or as someone put it (colour of shirt begins with P) "we 'ad we tay in the gardin and it wore arf 'ot, but we 'ad a good loff." Ooh, just noticed from the pic, they have net curtains in their shed - posh or what?. Bern allowed me inside his shed, I saw the 32 year old Sunbeam bicycle he's renovating - not quite a penny-farthing but it looked a bit cumbersome - don't think I'd like to pedal it uphill. "It has a Brookes saddle," He patted the dried leather as if it were gold and I sensed the excitement in his voice. I'm afraid the discovery of a Rolls-Royce of a bike saddle was wasted on me and one ponders whose and how many gussets it has seen?
I like Wendy's new short hair-cut - she has a smashing tan from grubbing about on their allotment. Chickens haven't arrived yet but I believe they're still in the pipeline (metaphorically of course).
16th July 2013
Rex and Alison (the strawberry neighbours) are back in the fold with mountains of washing on the line. Don came this morning for some typing - I don't actually go looking for work any more, I'm officially out of the self-employed system, but one or two of my long standing clients still want occasional stuff doing. Sorted out the autumn term writers' programme to hand out at today's meeting. Attendance was good - Maggie brought an end of term box of chocs to share - we arranged to meet up one day in August for a group lunch. Programme for the autumn term is on the Codsall Writers' page.
15th July 2013
We've been watering our neighbour's garden while they're on holiday - due back today. They have strawberries in hanging baskets and there's a lovely display of ripe ones to welcome them home. I was a bit worried the birds would eat them and Rex and Alison would think it was me. Just back from the ubiquitous Co-op, met Margaret Bills (art class) in the trolley dumping area - little gossip
session (as you do). Managed to get a much needed hair trim (without appointment) while I was in the village - split ends banished but the fifty shades of grey remain. (No! nothing to do with THAT novel). Carol called in after work - coffee and a chat before she dashed back to Shrewsbury to do their dinner.
14th July 2013
Looks like being a quiet Sunday - another holly tree day - cup of tea and The Telegraph with Bern dozing under his sunhat. The afternoon whizzed by. Some of the young ones are picnicking in The Quarry at Shrewsbury for Raj's sister's birthday. Andy popped in this morning before dashing off to the picnic - he was all tan, tattoo, and rippling six-pack. I'm still working on my homework for Tuesday and just about managed to come up with something - it's not worthy of an airing here, but it'll get me through the meeting without having to confess to doing nothing. It's James' weekend at work - hellish bad luck having to miss the sunshine. I rang Carol and rang Lesley - had long chats with both. Lesley told me she's been on an early shift and Jay was on a late shift so they're the proverbial ships that pass in the night this week. They're off to London soon to see a travel photography exhibition at the Royal Geographic Society - sounds interesting. I see it had a good write-up in Saturday's Telegraph.
13th July 2013
Went into town this morning and had an uncomfortable moment in M&S. Bern and I were in the food department and I was aware of a young man watching me. He seemed to be hovering wherever we moved, I even saw him peer into my bag as he brushed past us while I perused the sweets. (I bought mint humbugs and some fruity ones - yum). When we were at the till there he was again, watching me. I guessed his little game and made sure he couldn't see me enter my pin number. I didn't tell Bern because I knew he would wang our bag with tins of vegetable curry round the young man's head. At that point a store assistant approached us to say they'd noticed a man following us - so I hadn't imagined it. That's all by-the-by, what we really went into town for was to see John Hampton's exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery. John was the husband of a much respected writers' group member, Jean Hampton. Jean died several years ago and John last year. We really enjoyed seeing his most recent works: abstract, vibrant, and inspirational. Val from Thursday art class came in while we were there so it was nice to discuss the pictures with her and select our favourites. John and Jean had both been lecturers at Bilston College. When Jean died John asked me to type her writings so he could present them as a collection to their family. She wrote an autobiography about growing up in the London Blitz and the consequences of her being evacuated and the strange relationship she had with her mother. Jean was also an excellent poet. Life gets in the way of things and I didn't see her for a couple of years. It's strange how people's lives cross - when my son-in-law's mother, Helen, became ill with leukaemia we visited her in hospital. I was visiting one day and in the next bed to Helen was Jean Hampton. Shortly afterwards, Jean and Helen died on the same day. I attended both funerals - same place, same day, just two hours apart.
Rex and Alison (the strawberry neighbours) are back in the fold with mountains of washing on the line. Don came this morning for some typing - I don't actually go looking for work any more, I'm officially out of the self-employed system, but one or two of my long standing clients still want occasional stuff doing. Sorted out the autumn term writers' programme to hand out at today's meeting. Attendance was good - Maggie brought an end of term box of chocs to share - we arranged to meet up one day in August for a group lunch. Programme for the autumn term is on the Codsall Writers' page.
15th July 2013
We've been watering our neighbour's garden while they're on holiday - due back today. They have strawberries in hanging baskets and there's a lovely display of ripe ones to welcome them home. I was a bit worried the birds would eat them and Rex and Alison would think it was me. Just back from the ubiquitous Co-op, met Margaret Bills (art class) in the trolley dumping area - little gossip
session (as you do). Managed to get a much needed hair trim (without appointment) while I was in the village - split ends banished but the fifty shades of grey remain. (No! nothing to do with THAT novel). Carol called in after work - coffee and a chat before she dashed back to Shrewsbury to do their dinner.
14th July 2013
Looks like being a quiet Sunday - another holly tree day - cup of tea and The Telegraph with Bern dozing under his sunhat. The afternoon whizzed by. Some of the young ones are picnicking in The Quarry at Shrewsbury for Raj's sister's birthday. Andy popped in this morning before dashing off to the picnic - he was all tan, tattoo, and rippling six-pack. I'm still working on my homework for Tuesday and just about managed to come up with something - it's not worthy of an airing here, but it'll get me through the meeting without having to confess to doing nothing. It's James' weekend at work - hellish bad luck having to miss the sunshine. I rang Carol and rang Lesley - had long chats with both. Lesley told me she's been on an early shift and Jay was on a late shift so they're the proverbial ships that pass in the night this week. They're off to London soon to see a travel photography exhibition at the Royal Geographic Society - sounds interesting. I see it had a good write-up in Saturday's Telegraph.
13th July 2013
Went into town this morning and had an uncomfortable moment in M&S. Bern and I were in the food department and I was aware of a young man watching me. He seemed to be hovering wherever we moved, I even saw him peer into my bag as he brushed past us while I perused the sweets. (I bought mint humbugs and some fruity ones - yum). When we were at the till there he was again, watching me. I guessed his little game and made sure he couldn't see me enter my pin number. I didn't tell Bern because I knew he would wang our bag with tins of vegetable curry round the young man's head. At that point a store assistant approached us to say they'd noticed a man following us - so I hadn't imagined it. That's all by-the-by, what we really went into town for was to see John Hampton's exhibition at Wolverhampton Art Gallery. John was the husband of a much respected writers' group member, Jean Hampton. Jean died several years ago and John last year. We really enjoyed seeing his most recent works: abstract, vibrant, and inspirational. Val from Thursday art class came in while we were there so it was nice to discuss the pictures with her and select our favourites. John and Jean had both been lecturers at Bilston College. When Jean died John asked me to type her writings so he could present them as a collection to their family. She wrote an autobiography about growing up in the London Blitz and the consequences of her being evacuated and the strange relationship she had with her mother. Jean was also an excellent poet. Life gets in the way of things and I didn't see her for a couple of years. It's strange how people's lives cross - when my son-in-law's mother, Helen, became ill with leukaemia we visited her in hospital. I was visiting one day and in the next bed to Helen was Jean Hampton. Shortly afterwards, Jean and Helen died on the same day. I attended both funerals - same place, same day, just two hours apart.
12th July 2013
Forecast says we're in for another scorcher. It's easier to get up early in this fine weather and get a few jobs done before the day heats up. Washing machine's on the go but I guess it won't be long before the holly tree calls. I'm going to tackle the homework for next Tuesday writers' meeting - we have to write a poem following the rhythm of the chanting of a times table. How to make sense of that? Just heard a vociferous magpie doing its scratchy chattering sound. He was having a confrontation with the fat grey cat from over the road. The magpie advanced to within a couple of feet of the cat - it chickened out and slunk away - Mr Magpie reigns supreme. The sound of magpies reminds me of those old fashioned football rattles - they were wooden and the chaps wielded them round and round to produce an annoying cacophony - why?
Took my coffee outside to you know where (sorry to keep mentioning the H word). I was a bit dubious about lingering there today as a pigeon has built a bit of a perch (pile of twigs) at low level. I don't mind the sparrows chattering up in the penthouse branch but pigeons and their haphazard toilet habits are a bit disconcerting - and what if you happen to doze off and your mouth drops open? Pigeon, on yer bike!
11th July 2013
Sorry I'm so late popping in for a chat today - when I switched the computer on this morning a big red message hit the screen telling me something nasty was trying to get in. Good old Kapersky anti-virus whatsit kept it at bay. Things didn't go smoothly after that so I had to wait for Richard (the whizzo computer man) to come and sort things out. Anyway - I'm up and running again now. I'm always miserable when it's out of action - makes me want to eat things I shouldn't. I called to see my friend Fran this morning - she was behind the counter in her son's shop - we managed a bit of a catch-up between customers. They have an ironmonger shop selling all and everything so it was interesting to hear what the customers were looking for in Aladdin's cave.
Forecast says we're in for another scorcher. It's easier to get up early in this fine weather and get a few jobs done before the day heats up. Washing machine's on the go but I guess it won't be long before the holly tree calls. I'm going to tackle the homework for next Tuesday writers' meeting - we have to write a poem following the rhythm of the chanting of a times table. How to make sense of that? Just heard a vociferous magpie doing its scratchy chattering sound. He was having a confrontation with the fat grey cat from over the road. The magpie advanced to within a couple of feet of the cat - it chickened out and slunk away - Mr Magpie reigns supreme. The sound of magpies reminds me of those old fashioned football rattles - they were wooden and the chaps wielded them round and round to produce an annoying cacophony - why?
Took my coffee outside to you know where (sorry to keep mentioning the H word). I was a bit dubious about lingering there today as a pigeon has built a bit of a perch (pile of twigs) at low level. I don't mind the sparrows chattering up in the penthouse branch but pigeons and their haphazard toilet habits are a bit disconcerting - and what if you happen to doze off and your mouth drops open? Pigeon, on yer bike!
11th July 2013
Sorry I'm so late popping in for a chat today - when I switched the computer on this morning a big red message hit the screen telling me something nasty was trying to get in. Good old Kapersky anti-virus whatsit kept it at bay. Things didn't go smoothly after that so I had to wait for Richard (the whizzo computer man) to come and sort things out. Anyway - I'm up and running again now. I'm always miserable when it's out of action - makes me want to eat things I shouldn't. I called to see my friend Fran this morning - she was behind the counter in her son's shop - we managed a bit of a catch-up between customers. They have an ironmonger shop selling all and everything so it was interesting to hear what the customers were looking for in Aladdin's cave.
8th July 2013
Jay and Les called in and reported they'd had a fantastic time over the weekend in camper van heaven. We all sat under the holly tree for tea and cake - the only place to be when it's hot. I got them to look at my latest painting - Jay said if I don't want he would hang it in their house. A bit of positive feedback but I'm still not convinced. I'm contemplating putting a photo of it here - I'll see. That reminds me of when Jay was small. When he was pestering for something I used to say "I'll see", hoping to delay the issue. He'd give me all of two seconds and ask, "have you seen?".
7th July 2013
Guilty as charged: much time spent under the holly tree again though I did tackle a bit of ironing first thing. Bern has water blasted the block paving on the patio and resealed it - another chore out of the way. (I supervised from my seat in the shade). This afternoon I kept company with my easel and paints - not sure if the picture is a success, still thinking about it and pondering my next move, a choice between more work on it or consign it to the bin. We forgot all about the tennis but have since heard that Andy Murray won - great stuff. Jay and Les have had perfect weather for the jollifications at Weston Park - Apparently it's a sort gathering of VW camper van people with entertainments and events all weekend - sort of modern day hippies I reckon with some Country & Western thrown in. Andy and Raj called in - they're asking for help with planning their garden. Neither of them are clued up about gardening and I think Raj expects the flowers to look their best all year round - I've a bit of explaining to do about plants! Raj looked pretty as a flower in her little sun dress - good analogy though, she'll not be wearing it in December.
6th July 2013
Wow - warm enough for breakfast in the garden. Quick trip to the shops then further activity such as hauling a garden chair (comfy one) under the holly tree and suddenly the afternoon was gone, I may have nodded off. Just had news that Ian's team (Wolverhampton Wolverines - Oz Rules Football) have won the Brit Cup - congratulations guys.
5th July 2013
Amazing how quickly the weekend comes round - looks like it'll be one for lazing in the garden - Yippee! Did I say lazing? Bern decided we'd do a bit of pruning - I lazed, he pruned but I did help stuff the cuttings into the green bin.
Jay and Les called in and reported they'd had a fantastic time over the weekend in camper van heaven. We all sat under the holly tree for tea and cake - the only place to be when it's hot. I got them to look at my latest painting - Jay said if I don't want he would hang it in their house. A bit of positive feedback but I'm still not convinced. I'm contemplating putting a photo of it here - I'll see. That reminds me of when Jay was small. When he was pestering for something I used to say "I'll see", hoping to delay the issue. He'd give me all of two seconds and ask, "have you seen?".
7th July 2013
Guilty as charged: much time spent under the holly tree again though I did tackle a bit of ironing first thing. Bern has water blasted the block paving on the patio and resealed it - another chore out of the way. (I supervised from my seat in the shade). This afternoon I kept company with my easel and paints - not sure if the picture is a success, still thinking about it and pondering my next move, a choice between more work on it or consign it to the bin. We forgot all about the tennis but have since heard that Andy Murray won - great stuff. Jay and Les have had perfect weather for the jollifications at Weston Park - Apparently it's a sort gathering of VW camper van people with entertainments and events all weekend - sort of modern day hippies I reckon with some Country & Western thrown in. Andy and Raj called in - they're asking for help with planning their garden. Neither of them are clued up about gardening and I think Raj expects the flowers to look their best all year round - I've a bit of explaining to do about plants! Raj looked pretty as a flower in her little sun dress - good analogy though, she'll not be wearing it in December.
6th July 2013
Wow - warm enough for breakfast in the garden. Quick trip to the shops then further activity such as hauling a garden chair (comfy one) under the holly tree and suddenly the afternoon was gone, I may have nodded off. Just had news that Ian's team (Wolverhampton Wolverines - Oz Rules Football) have won the Brit Cup - congratulations guys.
5th July 2013
Amazing how quickly the weekend comes round - looks like it'll be one for lazing in the garden - Yippee! Did I say lazing? Bern decided we'd do a bit of pruning - I lazed, he pruned but I did help stuff the cuttings into the green bin.
4th July 2013
Despite Bern disagreeing with me, I think we've had an interesting afternoon. We did the Ikea walk - big yellow bag, little scratchy pencil, meat balls lunch. I inspected the mountains of stuff you don't really need but it's fun looking - ah, yes, I think that's the bit Bern disagrees with, but he was OK with the meat balls. I resisted the cheap and cheerful paper napkins because we still have a mountain of them from the 2012 visit, but I did disgracefully indulge in their pick-n-mix sweets on the way out. Called at Staples for some printer paper - we enquired about the why and wherefore of air printers, they're the ones you need to print directly from an iPad or android type gismo - apparently it will "talk" to your phone, camera, android, iPad etc. - we didn't take the plunge but it's something for the future as their versatility puts them in the "all singing and dancing" category.
CONGRAGULATIONS to Kate Chappell. I saw on Facebook that she has graduated from Rodbaston College this week. Well done Kate. Next adventure is Aberystwyth University.
Despite Bern disagreeing with me, I think we've had an interesting afternoon. We did the Ikea walk - big yellow bag, little scratchy pencil, meat balls lunch. I inspected the mountains of stuff you don't really need but it's fun looking - ah, yes, I think that's the bit Bern disagrees with, but he was OK with the meat balls. I resisted the cheap and cheerful paper napkins because we still have a mountain of them from the 2012 visit, but I did disgracefully indulge in their pick-n-mix sweets on the way out. Called at Staples for some printer paper - we enquired about the why and wherefore of air printers, they're the ones you need to print directly from an iPad or android type gismo - apparently it will "talk" to your phone, camera, android, iPad etc. - we didn't take the plunge but it's something for the future as their versatility puts them in the "all singing and dancing" category.
CONGRAGULATIONS to Kate Chappell. I saw on Facebook that she has graduated from Rodbaston College this week. Well done Kate. Next adventure is Aberystwyth University.
3rd July 2013
I'm really cheesed off with the choice of TV programmes at the moment. I pondered the point of what to do when there's nothing on telly? I came up with the idea of knitting a sock. (Cutting edge entertainment - the excitement is palpable). I can barely believe I've the nerve to relate this yarn, but here goes... I've never knitted a sock so I decided to unravel the mysteries of "turning a heel" - the official term for executing the right-angle bit. (No, this is not a wind-up, picture to prove it on your left). Anyway, this is as far as I've got - I'm on the straight run down to the toes now. I've no idea if it will ever get finished or if it will even get a matching mate but I can now "turn a heel" albeit one more suited to Quasimodo ankles. |
1st July 2013
White Rabbits - first of the month. Happy Birthday Jon - 22 today - have a great day. Heard on the grapevine the Mitchells are dining out tonight to celebrate the birthday - enjoy. 30th June 2013 Summer makes another brief visit - get out there while it's here.. Bern made the most of the weather - a cup of tea and Sudoku in the Sunday sunshine. I picked a few peony buds from the garden a couple of days ago - they've now opened up. |
< Blimey - just noticed there's a ghost in the mirror above the peonies! |
29th June 2013
Happy 16th Birthday to Emma Chappell - we'll be seeing everyone tonight at the birthday bash. Just popped in to Archie's Tea Party - had a quick chat with Denise in there - it was well supported and lots of cake consumption going on all in a good cause. Worry about your hips tomorrow folks. Went to the garden centre on the excuse that we needed to buy fat balls for the birds. Bern got a bit peckish (pun intended) so we stayed for lunch. Gathered a few more Sainsbury's Nectar points on the way home - what fun!
Emma's birthday 'do' went well with good food and company culminating in someone whose first name begins with C boogying round the back garden to loads of laughter. Hope Karen has tolerant neighbours.
Happy 16th Birthday to Emma Chappell - we'll be seeing everyone tonight at the birthday bash. Just popped in to Archie's Tea Party - had a quick chat with Denise in there - it was well supported and lots of cake consumption going on all in a good cause. Worry about your hips tomorrow folks. Went to the garden centre on the excuse that we needed to buy fat balls for the birds. Bern got a bit peckish (pun intended) so we stayed for lunch. Gathered a few more Sainsbury's Nectar points on the way home - what fun!
Emma's birthday 'do' went well with good food and company culminating in someone whose first name begins with C boogying round the back garden to loads of laughter. Hope Karen has tolerant neighbours.
27th June 2013
Went to collect what I thought was my £10 lottery winnings and had a pleasant surprise - it was £67 - better than a kick up the whatsit any day. I hear Jon and Andy are fitting a new bathroom for Ian and Jenny - plumber brothers are useful when they're not playing football or pumping iron. When I hear them talking of six-packs I never know if they mean muscles or cans - apparently the term alludes to both these days. It's Emma Chappell's prom night tonight - sister Kate has done the biz: dress, hair, nails, make-up, Emma looks fab. (see Emma's dress) |
Bad news from Aimee. Someone has stolen her very smart bike - it's a city/trek bike or something a bit technical like that. Bit more bicycle news > > > > > > > > > from Jay this time - This is his new profile pic on Facebook - pretty or what? Just leaves you speechless doesn't it? Maybe he wishes to travel in-cog-nito. This stuff is riveting isn't it - I can hear your cries "...on yer bike!" |
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26th June 2013
Just going to the Co-op to buy dried fruit. I've promised a cake for Louise Carrier - she's helping at a fund-raising event at Codsall Village Hall 11am - 3pm on Saturday 29th June in aid of Birmingham Children's Hospital Children's Cancer Centre Appeal. I always put loads of dried cranberries in my fruit cake and then make up the weight with ordinary stuff. I think they enhance the fruitiness. |
22nd & June 2013
Saturday! Hope the weather holds out for Jenny and Ian's barbecue tonight - we'll all be wandering off to Lichfield around teatime. By the way, the window cleaner has been and I was already up and dressed - so he didn't cop me in the spotted pink pyjamas.
Saturday! Hope the weather holds out for Jenny and Ian's barbecue tonight - we'll all be wandering off to Lichfield around teatime. By the way, the window cleaner has been and I was already up and dressed - so he didn't cop me in the spotted pink pyjamas.
Our poor old clock is showing signs of dementia. No matter how much I fiddle with it and get things synchronized, it insists on chiming the hour on the half hour and vice versa. It's been ticking away for over 100 years - it was a wedding present to Granny and Granddad Jones in the late 1800s - I guess by now it's entitled to a modicum of eccentricity. Auntie Gertie gave it to me before she went into a care home - she told me that it's only been repaired once in its life when Granny over-wound it. All it asks of me is that I wind it up with the big brass key and flick the dust off now and again. I can live with a geriatric chronometer even if it is getting as daft as me - we'll just have to be tolerant of each other's little foibles.
Back from the barbecue - we had a great time and great food. The company comprised mostly Mitchells, Rodgers, Taylors plus a gathering of good friends. Star of the show was Jenny's uncle Dave whom, I'm told, is a culinary whiz, and had created the "to-die-for" cakes and desserts.
Back from the barbecue - we had a great time and great food. The company comprised mostly Mitchells, Rodgers, Taylors plus a gathering of good friends. Star of the show was Jenny's uncle Dave whom, I'm told, is a culinary whiz, and had created the "to-die-for" cakes and desserts.
21st June 2013
Greetings at Summer Solstice - in Pagan terms known as Litha. I didn't make it to Stonehenge, nor did I, as Jay suggested, take off my pants to dance round the stones at dawn.
Happy birthday Jenny - have a good one.
Just back from Andy's house - I had to let the man in to install a phone line for Broadband. Had a quick tidy round while I was there and picked up all the towels "someone" had left lying around - looks like they'd had a mad dash to get themselves to work this morning. All the stray lotions and potions are in the bathroom cupboard (just in case you can't find them guys). And by the way, I switched off the bedroom light. Motto is, don't leave Gran alone in your house unless you want the clutter cleared away and banished from sight.
Greetings at Summer Solstice - in Pagan terms known as Litha. I didn't make it to Stonehenge, nor did I, as Jay suggested, take off my pants to dance round the stones at dawn.
Happy birthday Jenny - have a good one.
Just back from Andy's house - I had to let the man in to install a phone line for Broadband. Had a quick tidy round while I was there and picked up all the towels "someone" had left lying around - looks like they'd had a mad dash to get themselves to work this morning. All the stray lotions and potions are in the bathroom cupboard (just in case you can't find them guys). And by the way, I switched off the bedroom light. Motto is, don't leave Gran alone in your house unless you want the clutter cleared away and banished from sight.
19th June 2013
I'll not say how many as it's verging on the unmentionable, but, Happy Birthday Carol. I was awake at 6 a.m. just in time to listen to Carol's birthday interview on the Vanessa Feltz Radio Two programme - laughed myself silly. Someone had tipped off Vanessa about the blow-up guitars and infamous tambourine - heavy hints to the fact that Carol is a sociable party girl. She also spoke of fuelling things with Ribena - I believe that's today's euphemism for something red that arrives in a bottle! Bezzy mate Gerry is coming over later and they're having a girly picnic aboard a river boat - one might assume there'll be "Ribena" to follow.
I'll not say how many as it's verging on the unmentionable, but, Happy Birthday Carol. I was awake at 6 a.m. just in time to listen to Carol's birthday interview on the Vanessa Feltz Radio Two programme - laughed myself silly. Someone had tipped off Vanessa about the blow-up guitars and infamous tambourine - heavy hints to the fact that Carol is a sociable party girl. She also spoke of fuelling things with Ribena - I believe that's today's euphemism for something red that arrives in a bottle! Bezzy mate Gerry is coming over later and they're having a girly picnic aboard a river boat - one might assume there'll be "Ribena" to follow.
Denise and Jenny - all set for their Run For Life event in West Park Wolverhampton. They're both doing it in memory of a loved one who has battled with cancer. The theme for the day: Cancer, we're coming to get you! They will have raised over £1000 - magnificent effort.
18th June 2013
Looks like summer has popped in today - hope it's more than a brief visit. Dived my fingers into the fat balls (the ones you give to the birds in case you're wondering) and there were two mice inside - ugh! I beat a hasty retreat and so did the mice. Birds had to wait until Bern came home.
Just back from Dave Garrett's funeral - despite the sadness of the occasion it was good to catch up with David's family and many old friends. When you see familiar faces the years roll away and memories flood in. RIP Dave.
Looks like summer has popped in today - hope it's more than a brief visit. Dived my fingers into the fat balls (the ones you give to the birds in case you're wondering) and there were two mice inside - ugh! I beat a hasty retreat and so did the mice. Birds had to wait until Bern came home.
Just back from Dave Garrett's funeral - despite the sadness of the occasion it was good to catch up with David's family and many old friends. When you see familiar faces the years roll away and memories flood in. RIP Dave.
14th June 2013
Better now after a night's sleep. Galloped round doing the washing and made a cake in case anyone turns up. Several of our gang are on the go again this weekend - what with anniversary celebrations and good old Mott The Hoople performing they're all agog and raring to party. Bern and I shall be quietly sloshing paint on the kitchen walls. (What fun!)
< This is Ian Hunter of Mott The Hoople - Carol and Gary are front row fans (their guilty secret - a couple of years ago they attended a Mott the Hoople concert five nights running in Hammersmith - that's what I call sad!). But then again, how else would you want to spend your spare time? (Rolls eyes heavenwards).
Carol and Gary popped in on their way home after last night's gig in Leamington to partake of tea and cake and gen up on the news.
Better now after a night's sleep. Galloped round doing the washing and made a cake in case anyone turns up. Several of our gang are on the go again this weekend - what with anniversary celebrations and good old Mott The Hoople performing they're all agog and raring to party. Bern and I shall be quietly sloshing paint on the kitchen walls. (What fun!)
< This is Ian Hunter of Mott The Hoople - Carol and Gary are front row fans (their guilty secret - a couple of years ago they attended a Mott the Hoople concert five nights running in Hammersmith - that's what I call sad!). But then again, how else would you want to spend your spare time? (Rolls eyes heavenwards).
Carol and Gary popped in on their way home after last night's gig in Leamington to partake of tea and cake and gen up on the news.
CONGRATULATIONS Jay and Les - 23rd Wedding Anniversary on Sunday . Anyone recognise these little page boys? From left to right they're Phillip Bryett, Andy and Ian Mitchell. Aimee was one of the two bridesmaids - shame they're not in this picture. For a moment I wondered why Jon wasn't there (senior moment!) he wasn't even born then. Andy disappeared from view in the church and when we looked round he was fast asleep on one of the pews. I also remember it was a boiling hot day and a day when England were playing in the cup final. All the blokes were worried about missing the game so Lesley's brother, David, came armed with a portable TV and they were able to keep a surreptitious eye on the score.
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