Life outside Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
Nothing to do with the current story-line but rather cute
MistralAugust 15, 2022 at 10:33 PM
ReplyDeleteRe Marriage.
I enjoyed it. Very struck by their synchronicuty in the kitchen, I could totally believe they were in a long-term relationship. However, I was really shocked by the state of James Bolam, had to check the credits to make sure it was really him. I still remember him as the young fellow from 'When the Boat Comes In' about 45 years ago. I feel ancient now,
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ArcherphileAugust 16, 2022 at 7:47 AM
Loved When the Boat Comes in, and The Likely Lads with James Bolam. Frankly, I’m surprised to hear he is still working.
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ArcherphileAugust 16, 2022 at 7:47 AM
ReplyDeleteLoved When the Boat Comes in, and The Likely Lads with James Bolam. Frankly, I’m surprised to hear he is still working.
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ArcherphileAugust 16, 2022 at 7:49 AM
I loved When the Boat Comes in and, especially The Likely Lads with James Bolam.
Frankly, I’m surprised to hear he is still working.
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KPnutsAugust 16, 2022 at 8:30 AM
James Bolam is 87, so still 15 years younger than June Spencer. Although I imagine TV acting is physically more demanding than radio. That said I saw Ian McKellan as King Lear a couple of yers ago, which would have exhausted anyone, not to mention getting soaking wet every performance, he was 80 at the time.
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SarniaAugust 16, 2022 at 8:38 AM
I've bee enjoying the repeats of 'New Tricks' on the drama channel, so it's not quite such a shock.
Lanjan.August 16, 2022 at 7:08 AM
ReplyDeleteHad Sean Bean not been in "Marriage " I would have given up after the first episode or even before that.
I think the writer is over egging the pudding.
He is making a point and then keeps pushing it in case we don't understand what is going on.
I plan to watch episode three though.!
The Times gave it ***** after the first episode so I am probably in the minority.
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ArcherphileAugust 16, 2022 at 7:45 AM
Like you, KP, we had a teaspoonful of rain and a distant rumble of thunder from the Winchester direction. That’s all. My daughter rang from Whitchurch saying the same and complaining that her grass was still brown!! Perhaps today will bring some relief. 🌧
Sarnia I wrote a long reply to you but it vanished, I think because the blog changed over just as I clicked publish. Can't do it again just now but will later.
ReplyDeleteYour reply is on the previous blog Janice.
DeleteThanks CC, yes it seems to be still there on load more.
DeleteSarnia there was going to be a second bit explaining why I don't know if it is raining in Cornwall but will do that later.
SarniaAugust 15, 2022 at 9:36 PM
ReplyDeleteJanice, I read of heavy storms and flooding in Devon and Cornwall. Are you affected by this?
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JaniceAugust 16, 2022 at 9:37 AM
H
Hello Sarnia. The last 3 weeks have been a mix of very busy and difficult. I hope it is raining heavily in Cornwall as everything is so utterly parched with the leaves drooping downwards on the apple trees despite watering, lawn totally scorched, field grass browned off and I doubt anyone will get a second cut of hay this year.
ReplyDeleteThe very busy bit was a week spent baking in the evenings and helping serve on a refreshments stall during the day, for the flower festival in the village church. A small congregation, so just 3 of us doing the bulk of the work with 3 others helping out when they could, and lots of visitors from all over the world so it was interesting. The village churches here are part of a diocesan viability study, with elderly small village congregations ( one little church has only two regular attenders) struggling to raise funds for maintenance, and the common fund. I guess you and OWiaS will appreciate the problems. Our stall did surprisingly well but roof repairs etc on a church that catches the sea winds are never ending and expensive.
Thank you, Janice, for such an interesting reply. The sociability of all these activities sounds enviable compared with the individualism of life in a suburb.
ReplyDeleteRe the kitchen synchronicity in 'marriage': apparently this is all down to the director. Before rehearsals started he got the actors into the house and made them practise loading and unloading the dishwasher As well as putting jars and packets in the cupboards so that they could move around the kitchen in a natural way. Interesting feature in the RT
Moving around in a natural way in our kitchen involves a lot of side stepping around other shoe dwellers. If swear that if I were in the Sahara on a perfectly straight road, I'd still need to do a detour because OMiaS woud be standing directly in my path!
DeleteSarnia, thank you, that was interesting to me. I don't get any listings mags, in fact I hadn't heard of the program until I read about it on this blog! Also didn't know the lovely James Bolam was 87, although I have seen him in lots of things over the years. I was shocked because he was almost unrecognisable, I literally checked the credits because I wasn't sure it was really him, and had no idea of the cast apart from the two leads.
DeleteThe Likely Lads has been on R4x recently, well, this year, and I think it is still funny, unlike a lot of their 'vintage comedy' which I think is un-listenable to and would be better archived and forgotten about.
Of course, the BBC are scrapping the station, so that is exactly what will happen.
DeleteThere is still a lot of good stuff on that channel which I will miss, but not the 'comedy'slot.
To Mistral: Oh, I don't watch the programme, I just read the feature because drama was one of my college subsidiaries and in the past, both writing and directing (in an extremely small way) has been part of my 'ministry' through the performing arts.
ReplyDeleteAh, the thunder and 4 penn'orth of rain has just arrived. Winchester found it unsatisfactory and sent it back!
ReplyDeleteWe've had a steady drizzle : ) I think it has stopped for the moment but at least the air is a little cooler. No sign of any thunder yet.
DeleteWe’ve had light rain only here in West Somerset/North Devon, and not much of it, it’s barely touched the paving in my garden let alone the yellow grass.
ReplyDeleteBut it is so much cooler thank goodness.
I visited Porlock yesterday, very attractive, and I look forward to going again to explore. I went for my first appointment with my new GP practice having had a short telephone consultation with a female Dr previously, and having had my blood tests.
The male doctor I saw was excellent.
Relaxed, unhurried attentive and thorough. I shall attempt to see him when i need to see a doctor in the future.
As usual my thyroid levels are slightly above what would be considered as acceptable and he gently set about the explanation re the possible damage to my heart, but finishing with the comment that I had probably had this conversation before. In the same form of response I replied that yes many many times over sixty years, and here I was at 80 still with a strong and steady heart, as well as explaining that my levels had always yo yoed. I continued and informed him that if my heart failed in any way I would not be dialling 999 nor informing my family, or him, of any concerns referencing my father and his end at the same time.
I feel that we were both aware that we were smiling beneath our masks.
There were two other issues brought to my attention which I shall do my best to remedy, even though it is possible that both might be due to the recent extended period of very hot weather.
Yet more positive reports, Mrs P. I am so relieved for you that life is no longer the interminable greyness you have been experiencing for so long.
ReplyDeleteFinding it difficult to settle to anything today, especially after yesterday's regular gruelling from the chiropractor.
ReplyDeleteI've checked the flight details and found that Auckland-Melbourne is 4hrs 10min, Melbourne -San Francisco is 14hrs 35min and SF-London 10 hrs 20min.
Of course, many of you will already know this kind of thing. It's a very long time to be on planes. She is scheduled to touch down at midday tomorrow.
Hey REAL RAIN 🤗 started with very light drizzle on and off this morning but the real deal this afternoon, the right sort too plenty of it for a while but of the steady type.
ReplyDeleteSarnia that is some flight that is being undertaken. I have missed out on this piece of news who is visiting and for how long? It all sounds very exciting 😃
Talking of James Bolam, does anybody remember the Beiderbecke Affair series by Alan Plater? I still think that it was one of the best series ever and occasionally manage to play the cassette tapes, read by James Bolam, which always cheer me up when I am down and my cassette recorder is working! Also loved Plater's Oliver's Travels - same wry sense of humour. There's a lot to be said for the old technology, especially when you have a lot of tapes!!! Here in the West Midlands we have had a hint of rain but nothing more than a few scattered raindrops. Fingers crossed for a nice steady downpour rather than a deluge! So glad that you are enjoying your new area, MrsP. We used to visit Porlock regularly and loved it!
ReplyDeleteMy daughter, Lady R. We haven't seen each other since the funeral in 2019. She is only coming for just over a fortnight as she can't afford to take more time off work, but she worries that she has not been around to help with the aftermath.
ReplyDeleteIt is a huge undertaking , which she managed twice the year her father died, once to be with him in hospital and again for the funeral. She couldn't have timed it better, because although the basic new framework of the garden is more or less complete, since being back on my regular schedule at the organ I am feeling really overwhelmed and the domestic side of things has gone horribly to pot!
How lovely for you Sarnia enjoy every moment. I really cannot believe it is 3yrs since Mr S passed. You have had much to cope with but like Lanjan (and Ev before both of you) you have come through including having your lovely newly created garden to enjoy for a good few years to come ⭐️
DeleteHave a lovely time with your daughter Sarnia, perhaps the two of you will have synchronicity in your kitchen!
ReplyDeleteThat is very witty, Mistral. My kitchen is so small that it was hardly room enough for Mr S on his own. If we do it will the first time in the history of anything!
ReplyDeleteS-i-l has just rung to say that she and husband have Covid. They caught it at Sidmouth. It would never have occurred to me that an upright place like Sidmouth would be prone to such a thing. She blamed all the tourists.
ReplyDeleteWe have had a good lot of rain today, my car looks cleaner.
ReplyDeleteSabrina I hope your daughter has a good trip & that you enjoy your time together
Sabrina- wow, ta ever so, KP! As I recall, she was a blonde bombshell! I wish .. ...
ReplyDeleteBufo9bufo
ReplyDeleteOh yes! The Beiderbecke Affair! Wonderful series (well, 3 series actually) with one of my favourite actresses, Barbara Flynn as well as James Bolam. So quirky, so inventive, fantastic jazz and very very funny.
I wish they would show it again!
I hope you enjoy many moments together over the two weeks of your daughters visit Sarnia.
ReplyDeleteLots of steady straightforward rain here today.
The hills around all misty and the ground soaking it up.
Nothing dramatic, no storms, no heavy downpours.
Just good solid rain, all day.
Such a relief !
Some rain here overnight at last, the garden really needed it and hopefully the water butts will have filled up a bit. Looking forward to not having to go out and do the watering this evening.
DeleteSpoke too soon. Looks like we didn't get as much rain as I thought and quite a few of my pots were quite dry. I bought a moisture tester for my indoor plant pots as I thought I was watering them too much (I was) and have started to use it on my outdoor ones as well. it has cut down the amount of water that I use quite a bit.
DeleteHere in Hampshire rain all day 🤗
ReplyDeleteWith respect, Lady R, only SOME parts of Hampshire.
ReplyDeleteYou’re right Sarnia I should have said in my area, even our friends only about 4 miles away are still crying out for rain at least they were when we spoke this afternoon. Even our market town can be chucking it down one end and be bone dry the other.
DeleteMy excitement got the better of me 🙃 😂
Sarnia, thinking of you and your daughter. It must be lovely to see her again after 3 years. Have a good time!
ReplyDeleteAm off to Italy with Katy on Friday, just praying nothing goes wrong with transport! Really looking forward to it and the break from routine. We will miss the boys but at the same time it will be good to get a break from their routine as well! We had claps of thunder this afternoon with Dudley in tin hat mode barking at it to go away and Buddy trembling next to me and then on Katy’s lap as she was doing a painting!😊🐾🐾🐶🐶
Is your daughter over here now Sarnia?
ReplyDeleteOf course if she is it is unlikely that you will have time to read the blog.
I wondered why she was coming here via San Francisco.
I hope you have a lovely fortnight together.
Thankfully the weather seems to have improved .
I hope that is the last of the humid weather
Yes, she is, and we have been drinking cappuccino down in the courtyard by the light of my Moroccan lanterns. I've been longing for her to see it and she is enchanted by it
ReplyDeleteShe came via San Francisco because it was the cheapest route, LanJan. She usually comes via Dubai.
...or Hong Kong, or Singapore,Doha, Melbourne, Sydney or LA.
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ReplyDeleteEnjoy your time with your daughter Sarnia.
DeleteWent to the ice cream farm today to stock up for various grandchildren who are visiting in the next couple of weeks. Had a coffee in the new extension to the tea room which has a large window with wonderful views over the hills, then went for a walk along the nature trail before buying the ice cream. Had a very enjoyable morning.
ReplyDeleteAfternoon was a bit different, spent clearing up after next door's leylandii hedge had been cut. It's about 3 metres high and about 10 metres long. we'll still be picking up bits when they come to trim it next year!
Sounds a lovely morning CC ⭐️
DeleteAfter all the very welcome rain yesterday here in my part of Hampshire still a sticky 27c today 😡 Season of mist and mellow fruitfulness I’m ready and waiting 🍁
Have enjoyed a lovely couple of days, MrNuts enjoying a week off work, it was his birthday yesterday, we had brunch in Winchester followed by military museums then cream tea, even managed to get both daughters out. Today we went over to the island, spent the day at Osborne House then home. Lovely weather today,
ReplyDeleteHave you seen who is taking over from Jeremy Paxman as the question person on University Challenge?
ReplyDeleteI am not impressed..
Neither am I.
DeleteWould you both like to give your reasons for not being impressed ?
ReplyDeleteI'd be interested in your reasons for not being impressed as well.
DeleteI googled it as you were being cryptic, never heard of him, so have no opinion.
ReplyDeleteBamber Gascoigne was congenial but firm, Jeremy Paxman was firm to the point of rudeness and it will be interesting to see how new man fares! It does require firm handling to move the program on. I have never heard of him either so can’t offer an opinion.
ReplyDeleteHis name is Amol Raman and has been a BBC Presenter for a long time, usually on The Today
ReplyDeleteprogramme on R 4. He is also their media editor.
He is a very incisive interviewer especially with stupid politicians.
I’ll only make a judgement when I’ve seen and heard his do the job.
Apparently he has been a big fan of University Challenge for a long time, obviously not necessarily a qualification for the job. I liked Bamber Gascoine but am not keen on Jeremy Paxman in the role. Will be interested to see how Amol Rajan does.
DeleteWell, it’s just another woke placement for the bbc. He’s been on everything and they pay him so much they have to find something for him. I am actually surprised it isn’t a crippled, coloured woman cos that would have ticked a few bbc boxes.
ReplyDelete✓✓✓
DeleteMrs P and Cheshire Cheese,I would like to know what qualifications YOU both think Amal Raman has for the position .
ReplyDeleteWhen he actually appeared as a contestant he was very poor.
I listen to the Today programme each morning but when he comes onto to the programme I feel like turning off because his voice is so boring.
I suspect it is because he is just reading a script.
In yesterday 's Times newspaper the vast majority who made comments-and yes I was one of them- were appalled by the decision but expected it.
Indeed in a comment I made the previous day I said that I was sure that he would become the new presenter because most people didn't want him.
I do not agree with you Stasia about him being an incisive interviewer and don't know which stupid politicians to which you refer.
Nobody could come up to Bamber Gascoyne's standard but I actually liked Jeremy Paxman.
He knew what he was talking about and showed his amazement when students answered questions with a totally ridiculous answer.
He also praised students when they gave a good answer.
Bobby Seagull or Eric Monkman who were captains of Oxbridge teams a few years ago would have been great.
I will guarantee that ratings will fall quickly and I wouldn't be surprised if Amol Raman is given another job by the BBC and is replaced.
Of course Paxman is doing another series so maybe ARaman will get a further promotion and therefore will never take up the post.
I had not thought very much about the qualifications Amol Rajan has for the position.
DeleteI had heard and accepted that news, then read your comments and was interested in your reasons.
I don’t listen to the Today programme very often now due to my late awakening. I am a devotee of the Media Show and missed the presenter who died very much, but continued to listed throughout the tenure of Rajan.
Like Stasia I find him incisive in his questioning, but often difficult to understand due to his very quick delivery. I certainly am not bored by his voice.
I would hope that when presenting U C he will be measured in his delivery.
Those who watch the programme will soon find out.
I don’t watch the programme as I don’t have a television, and it’s not something I would choose to watch on IPlayer, although I might give it a try sometime.
I always enjoyed Bamber Gasgoine, and although I like Paxman, his world weary attitude to young contestants irritated me on the odd occasions that I saw the programme.
As for what others feel about his new position, including readers of The Times, I really cannot comment as I do not know.
As BBC journalist, presenter and media editor I think Amol Rajan is as qualified as his predecessors. I think he makes a positive contribution to the Today programme and much prefer his interviewing style to Jeremy Paxman's. I don't have an opinion on how he will do on UC which is why I said I will be interested to see how it goes.
DeleteI am delighted Amol Rajan is talking over University Challenge. And by the way he will be giving up his post as Media Editor when he does so.
ReplyDeleteHe is an excellent interviewer, a breath of fresh air on the Today programme, who actually listens to the answers given instead of talking over the interviewee.
He is highly intelligent and is also very keen on Cricket and has written a book on spin bowling, so he can’t be bad!
Sorry LanJan, your above post hadn’t shown up when I wrote mine.
DeleteJust to say, if it’s not obvious, I totally disagree with what you have said about Amol Rajan!
What does interest me is the continuing rise of the second generation of immigrants within the media.
ReplyDeleteWith parents among the intelligentsia and media world from whatever country they came from starting a new life half a world away, with young children attending the local comprehensive, many then attending first class universities, the cream does seem to rise.
Rajan and Khan, Mayor of London, both attended schools in the borough I lived in and my daughters attended comprehensives in the same borough.
Families of these children were my neighbours and friends and although the parents often had to be employed in positions below their competency level, the adherence to educational excellence in their children was noticeable.
I first became aware of this when as a parent involved in the PTA helping girls move on into the world outside of school, I could see for myself that many were anxious to succeed for the sake of parents who had uprooted the family’s life to enable them, the children, to reap the benefits that such sacrifice deserved.
That awareness reminded me of the children who had arrived from Hungary when I had been in my secondary school in the fifties, and how they felt so keen to make gains through educational attainment.
‼️Apple device users - have you done the URGENT IOS security update. I heard of it via LBC radio last night. (It may be that’s behind of course)
ReplyDeleteAffects iPhone/ iPad / macs and an iPod- Google to find models affected
It was also on the BBC news this morning, with the message :-
DeleteDo it now, Do NOT wait till later.
Did it first thing yesterday morning after hearing it on the Today programme.
DeleteTook much longer on phone than on iPad.
Apple said it thought the glitch would be used more for hackers trying to get into corporate websites, celebrities, governments etc rather than the ordinary users. But all fixed now.
Thanks for highlighting this, I hadn’t heard anything on the news. Update installed on phone & ipad
ReplyDeleteARCHERPHILE
ReplyDelete🎂 to you 🍾🎁 🎉 🎈any plans?
Thank you so much Lady R, your memory is phenomenal!
DeleteOnly plan is that next door neighbours are kindly doing a barbeque in their pavilion for me tonight which is also as thanks for us looking after their house and garden throughout the recent heatwave and drought (lots of watering on their behalf) when they were away on holiday for three weeks.
However, on Tuesday we have to go up to North Wales again until the weekend, to visit sister-in -law who has finally got probate on her husbands will - it has taken 12 months!
She has managed to sell the Old Rectory and will be moving into a small bungalow near the gold course she belongs to. She needs help sorting stuff and cleaning before the move. A 5 bed, large Georgian house into a 2 bed bungalow is going to be quite a feat!
Enjoy that bbq tonight AP well earned by the sound of it 😉
DeleteIs it really a year since your sister-in-law lost her husband! Is the 5 bed home a choc a block one or of the minimal type, although probably not if lived in for many years. More space to fill and be able to “just keep in case”….
Happy birthday Archerfile! 🌻🎂🎁🎉
ReplyDeleteArcherphile, enjoy your birthday & barbecue. I hope your time in N Wales isn’t too stressful, I am sure your sister-in-law will appreciate your help with what can seem an overwhelming task.
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely day.
On another topic relating to your sister in law
Mr LJ died a year ago last March.
His was not a complicated estate .
We are still waiting to hear from the Solicitors that everything is sorted.
To compound my irritation.,they had the check in July to tell us that their prices had gone up.
When John died I wrote down all the things I thought I should do regarding his estate.
I found the book the other day into which I had written them down.
Against every item I had written "sorted."
I then had to pass everything onto the Solicitor whose work had already been done.
I won't go on..........
I thought I recalled you asking the question regarding the length of time for probate recently LJ, once started I think the rate should stay the same otherwise it looks like stretching out the case to make more money. No doubt though Covid is to blame 🙃
DeleteMike passed away in June 2017. Katy was joint executor with his brother and sister in law. Because of family problems and distance away, they opted out leaving her to deal with it all. Without going into detail, his Will had to be amended which we did through a solicitor on the island. That problem was dealt with quickly and by October probate had been granted. Katy has a law degree and also teaches business so she had the knowledge needed but it shows that solicitors who are executors drag their heels quite a bit.
DeleteWe are in Italy enjoying sunshine but we did have heavy rain and a thunderstorm this afternoon. In this part of the country it has been good to see lots of greenery so obviously they have had more rain than UK over the last few weeks! We are enjoying being able to relax and have the time to paint! No masterpieces yet though! 😊
Happy birthday Archerfile 🎂🍾🎁
ReplyDeleteRe probate, we did it ourselves for my and Mr CC's parents in the UK which was all straightforward. My mother, being French, had assets in France for which we had a solicitor over there. We knew that France is fond of a bit of beurocracy, I won't go in to detail but it was a nightmare to get sorted!
I can well imagine CC. As son can testify, buying a house over there, shenanigans with the previous owner and his many relatives!
DeleteMany thanks for all you good wishes. Not that I am actually celebrating reaching 77, would rather be going backwards! 😂
ReplyDeleteRe Sis.in.Law and probate. Her was complicated by the Post Mortem not giving a cause of death and the lengthy time it took for her to actually get a death certificate, months in fact.
That held everything up, plus the fact that she couldn’t get access to bank accounts, shares or anything else because he had left no details of such things.
The Rectory is stuffed full of furniture because when they married, they each moved in most of the furniture from their previous homes - because these was room! And hundreds and hundreds of books! Two very large sitting rooms plus 5 bedrooms, cellars, attics and a very large two story garage/workshop with his collection of vintage motorbikes and engineering equipment. But his son, from first marriage is supposed to be going up to collect those, so hopefully it will just be the house we are concerned with.
Just the house?!
Delete…and that will be more than enough AP what a massive task before you both and her to reduce all those contents to a 2 bed bungalow. When will the move take place?
ReplyDelete77yrs and you can’t even turn it around as my mum used to do if it gave her a better result 😂
At least on those grounds I will only be 57 this year!!
I, like Archerphile, had a birthday yesterday of double digits that can’t be turned. Very depressing! The years seem to just fly by nowadays.
ReplyDeleteOh ptby my apologies I have let myself down 😟 but so long as you had an enjoyable day….
Delete🪅 🎈 🎂 🎉 (belatedly)
No worries lady R. Had a lovely day. Husband bought me a lovely stone bird bath. The dogs think it is a posh, raised dog bowl. 🤦♀️
Delete🤣🤣🤣
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteExtra happy belated birthday wishes to you PtbY. And what a really lovely present from your husband. You’ll have many happy hours watching the birds using it.
DeleteMine bought me a pair of gardening clogs to keep by the back door, but I did ask for them!
Happy belated Birthday PtbY. The bird bath sounds lovely.💐
DeleteI love my Backdoor shoes Archerfile!
DeleteWell P tbY I don't know why you should be depressed.
ReplyDeleteYou are a mere youngster compared to me.
I thought I had posted something and was surprised when it wasn't there..
Sorry about that.
Glad you enjoyed your day anyway.
I was feeling particularly happy on my double digit birthday nearly 27 years ago because I was in my last term in my teaching post before I took early retirement.I then did Supply teaching which I loved.
Fortunate to teach in two excellent schools-a Grammar School in Lancashire and a convent in Middlesex.
.
‘‘Twas ever thus LJ until very recently we had a local man of 112yrs active to the last and he would have called you a mere youngster 😉🤣
DeleteClem round the corner from us at home is approaching 102 and has a son who is 75, a year older than me! Clem is my inspiration! Happy, happy birthday, Archerfile and PTBY and mony may they be!
DeleteHave not looked in for a day or so and see that I have missed two birthdays.
ReplyDeleteApologies
So……Belated . Happy Birthday wishes to ARCHERPHILE and PtbY
Goodness where is everyone! No doubt all in your gardens working hard . Lovely weather for you Sarnia especially as your daughters is visiting. I am sure you are both enjoying this time together immensely.. check back later to what’s what 🤗
ReplyDeleteI’m having a girls night in with 4 friends. We haven’t all been together since before covid. We originally got together when we all lived in the same town but over the years 3 have moved away, not too far, furthest about 25 miles.
ReplyDeleteI’m doing a lazy meal. Lump of gammon in slow cooker at 8 this morning. Kale salad and carrot and beetroot salad already done. Salad potatoes just to boil, dressing already made. Pud…..Lidl lemon roulade.
Got grass cut and done weeding so just recuperating in a bath, stiff as a crutch.
That sounds delicious. Slow cooked gammon is a favourite of mine, but I do mine in an enamel casserole in a low oven, for about 4hours. This is what I do when I have a piece if brisket.
DeleteHow's the eye??
Still got a bit of bruising and swelling but seems ok. Still protrudes a bit I think but hoping it’s cos of swelling.
DeleteBack to Hosp next Tuesday.
I was pleased to see a new series of Fake or Fortune? starting last night. I don't know if anyone else watched it, but I found it very interesting.
ReplyDeleteHello from deepest, darkest Wales! Can’t comment much on Archers stories or what’s been going on here as can only snatch a couple of mins on iPad. Wifi very poor, cannot listen to T in bed at night to will to have catch up when back home.
ReplyDeleteSister in law getting ready to move into new bungalow soon but the problems of what to do with the old heavy furniture here are enormous. She is hoping the new owners will want to keep some of it. The rest will have to go to auction or similar. Been packing and sorting books etc but the problems she has been left with are huge. She spends loads of time on the phone to solicitors, agents etc trying to organise things. I hope I never have to do this on my own, as she has.
But tomorrow she has arranged for a helicopter flight , with Mr A, over the house and village so she can take photos from the air before leaving in a few weeks time. I shall stay firmly on the ground!
I symparhise about the books, as my father had well over 1000. We got in touch with a 2nd hand book seller, who was very keen to have some of them. Our response - it was all or nothing, so he took the lot and paid for them!
DeleteAs to the furniture we took the easy way out and got a house clearance firm in to clear everything. It cost us but it made things simple and quick.
Thanks Miriam. Here there is the added complication of the husband’s son by his first marriage wanting some of the stuff but he lives down in Kent and has to hire a van to come up and fetch things. He is being a pain and keeps putting off his visit which isn’t helping. There are some quite valuable pieces of Victorian furniture and clocks, pictures, ornaments and a grandfather clock which need valuing and it all takes time. Also the husband apparently never, ever threw anything away so Ros found 72 shirts, almost all the same and over 50 pairs of identical trainers of various ages. Once he found something to fit he just kept buying the same things over and over, even if he didn’t need new ones.
DeleteIn fact I am discovering that he really was the most eccentric man who has left his wife with a tremendous headache!
This sounds so complicated after what has already been, a turbulent year. In my case, the contents of the bungalow had to be valued for probate, so we knew that there was nothing of value. All family members were given the option of anything that they wanted. It was surprising what some chose. Eldest niece claimed the chess set as she associated it with her granddad, another took a '70's dralon curved swivel chair, as there was a photo of her aged about 3, sitting in it. This latter item underwent a Repair Shop type tranformation and now has pride of place in her flat.
DeleteHope all proceeds smoothly without any hiccups.
We were sitting in our local M&S cafe with two of our grandchildren this morning when an elderly couple (total strangers to us) approached our table. They asked if the children were being good and upon getting a reply in the affirmative promptly gave them a £1 coin each. They stayed and chatted for a few minutes then went off to continue their shopping!
ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI found that story rather odd, CC, but maybe I'm the one that's odd 🤨
ReplyDeleteThe couple saw 2 children enjoying their day out, i.e, without running around the cafe yelling, so why couldn't they have just smiled & made some passing pleasant remark, instead of giving a 'reward'? Who is supposed to define 'good'?
No Car0line you are not odd, I find it both odd and intrusive, it is how children should behave. As a stranger you have no right to interfere in childrens upbringing, as You said Caroline a kind word to the parent is all that is necessary.
DeleteI finally had my "bloods" done today.
ReplyDeleteSince May, I have had 3 consecutive abnormal blood tests and at every test, extra things are being tested for, to try and work out what is going on.
Today's should have been done 3 weeks ago, but due to waiting times this was the earliest.
Again others things are being tested for, as well as the continuing "abnormal" elements.
I had to go to the hospital for these, but as it was a GP referral, I had to go to a clinic which is not a walk in, but appointment only. This put another 8 days on the delay.
As a result my GP appointment has had to be changed, and is now in 3 weeks time to find out what happens next.
It is just frustrating, though I appreciate that there is a backlog in getting appointments etc.
At least this is nothing like what PtbY went through, with her eye op. so I have to count myself lucky.
To answer you Esscee………. Some time back when a number of us were having the same difficulty you describe, one person - I think might have been Sarnia explained a way to navigate out of that situation.
ReplyDeleteI’m afraid I can’t remember the formula but several of us found it to have worked.
If it was SARNIA perhaps she will explain again.
Gary - I have continued to email about every six weeks and I may not be alone in doing so. I’m afraid it’s continued silence.
We may never know !
I think what you mentioned about what happened in the café ,Cheshire Cheese was rather odd but I also thought it was rather nice too.
ReplyDeleteI am impulsive and don't think before I act.
I am sure Mr LJ must have been embarrassed when I told a complete stranger who was sitting opposite to me in a train that her hat really suited her.
Didn't give her £1 though.
However I was returning home from London in rush hour once.
The carriage was full and people were standing.
A child of about 9years old was yelling and screaming .
His mother didn't know what to do.
I was alone so would only embarrass myself .
I knew the name of the child so I approached him told him I had magic powers and if his mummy would let me I would give him a sweet which would make him feel better.
Mummy allowed me to give him a Jakeman's and he stopped yelling.
Of course nobody speaks on London trains but I got some weak smiles from other passengers.
Would I do it again?
Not sure.
I once suggested to a young man that he should take his feet off the seat in front of him.
I wouldn't do that again
He just gave me a mouthful of abuse.-fortunately nothing else.
I do think it is nice to say something complimentary to a stranger and I do still do it
I remember when my train mad younger son and I were travelling on a local train .
He had such a smile on his face.
A woman told me that he would charm the birds from the trees.
I still remember it.
So after my rambling post ,Cheshire Cheese I would say well done their parents for the way your grandchildren are being brought up.
They obviously impressed the elderly couple and of course you will never know why they gave the children the money.
I think I would just feel rather proud.
If I can't get back onto this blog I revert to the original one ,go down to 25th May click onto KP's name and get back on that way
DeleteI am hoping to have visitors tomorrow afternoon. Eldest niece and 11yr daughter will be nearby for a mother/daughter excursion, the main object of which is the dreaded buying of new school shoes.
ReplyDeleteThey are planning to come to me in the afternoon for refreshments, to recover from the ordeal and to just have a chat.
My lawns have been mowed and are looking good and I have done a Jill - made a lemon drizzle cake!
So hopefully it will be afternoon tea for three, in the garden 🤞
This is a reply from the other page re the new grading system for GCSE's.
ReplyDeleteFrom what I understand, as explained to me:-
Grade 4 is a pass equivalent to a C
Grades 5 + 6 are B and B+
Grade 7 is the old A
Grade 8 is A*
Grade 9 is A**
Yesterday spent at Naiisworth with s-i-l and after a walk and late lunch today we have moved on to Symond's Yat, my 'magic' place on the R Wye, which my daughter has never seen . Staying overnight we'll spend the day enjoying the surroundings before driving back home late afternoon.
ReplyDeleteBlog access: click on your ident on the blog to take you to your own page Click on your initial in the top RH corner, which brings down your Google account. Click on that to sign in and you should then be registered on the blog. Worked for me. Can't really take credit for it though as I think the suggestion originally came from OWiaS.
Thank you Miriam.
ReplyDeleteWhat a load of rubbish it all is.
When I took GCEs we all had to write on a stamped -were stamps tuppence halfpenny then.?- postcard ,which subjects we were taking .
The postcard arrived at our homes the following day with either a P or an F against the subjects
My O level results were sent in the post, addressed to my parents. They opened the envelope and told me what the results were!
DeleteHowever, A Level results were sent in the post, addressed to me.
Perhaps it was thought that two years later I was mature enough to be trusted to open the envelope by myself!
Yesterday started off grey and cloudy at Symond's Yat, then bloomed into a beautiful day. Jessica walked in the morning while I moseyed about and sat by the hand-pulled ferry to be entertained by all the comings and goings.
ReplyDeleteWhen she got back we took the ferry (first time in four visits for me) and we walked beside the river upstream to the Old Ferrie Inn 14C) at the West village, something I thought I would never manage. There we joined other holidaymakers at riverside tables to be entertained by the antics of novices with canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and the occasional trip boat.
Walking back was a bit daunting after so much sitting down, but although very stiff by the end I had a huge sense of achievement, although I'm afraid my entry and exit on the ferry was not executed with my usual experienced finesse!
It all sounds wonderful Sarnia and will become a very cherished memory ⭐️
DeleteRe 'O' level results: mine arrived on Aug 31st, the very day on which my friend's parents had very generously arranged to take me to see her in Brittany, where she was on an exchange visit.
ReplyDeleteAs I was not permitted to receive mail addressed to me my mother steamed the envelope open to see who it was from. When she found it was official mail from the school she read the results and the stuck it back down again, hoping that I wouldn't notice!
What a silly way round to arrange the new numbered grades - it shows my grade 1s in a very poor light
Thank you, Lady R.
ReplyDeleteAs its been so quiet I thought I would bore you with more tales from the cows.
ReplyDeleteThe problems of the summer disappeared over winter, when the spring came and the cows went out to grass, it wasnt long before Anna showed the same problems once again I called in the Vets, this time they said it was photosensitivity'. I argued that this wasnt the problem ,but they were adamant even when i explained because I was short of grass the cows were in during the day and out at night, ( The problem is due to the exposure of the skin to sun ) I had a call a few days later from the vets to say they were sending a locum vet who was South African and an expert in photosensitivity. The first thing he said to me was ' But they are black ' I said I know and I have been arguing with them. He told me the problem was it was a severe allergic reaction to something on /or in the pasture, so I was faced with losing the cows or moving, i couldnt lose the cows so move it was, but not before I had to put Anna down. Scarlett had her first calf , Emerald, she totally rejected her , wouldnt feed her, just kept kicking her away. The only way I could get her to allow her to feed was to tie her up. Vanilla stepped in and tried to encourage Scarlett, but with little effect. in any case had her own calf to feed.
Finding a suitable small holding was difficult , eventually I found one, the cows accommodation was far superior. mine a bit on the small side ! it was down a mile long track in the middle of common land. Finding a removal firm was the next problem, the local Wrexham owner said even if he didnt get the job he had had a lovely day out. I also asked for a quote from a so called difficult location expert, he couldn t find me ! needless to say he didnt get the job.
The move was exacerbated by the fact that there was no right of way for vehicles, eventually this was sorted and we exchanged on the Friday and completed on the Monday. I thought my problems were over but No, The rules on keeping cattle are strict I rang up the appropriate agency to make the arrangements and was told that although there was a holding number for the property it may not be transferred to me you cant move with out a holding number. So I asked what I could do as I couldnt leave the cattle on their own. I was told most people move first and tell us after so that is what I did, sometimes the law is an ass.
My neighbour took the cows and hens (the fox has visited the night before ) those that were left, the night before and the cats and dog came with me the following day, the furniture following on the day after and the begining of the Cwm Gorphen herd.
w
Hi Cowgirl, that must be one of the most unusual reasons for a house move ever, your energy & determination always leaves me in awe.
ReplyDeleteBlogs are very quiet at the moment, life is just toddling along in my corner of Hampshire, I went up to view our village church yesterday which has just re-opened following extensive restoration needed after a massive fire 8years ago.
Saw that on the local news KP looked a job well done 😇
DeleteNo you have not been boring ,Cowgirl.
ReplyDeleteI am trying to think of a title for the book you must write.
"How Cowgirl became Goosegirl"
"What Cowgirl did"
to be followed by
"What Cowgirl did next"
"An everyday story of a Cowgirl"
NEVER boring Cow Girl……. Keep em coming !
DeleteNow here is a puzzle you may not have encountered.
ReplyDeleteIt is about toilet rolls!
(Posh people don't call them lavatory rolls.
Why not?)
That was an aside .
This is the problem
I buy Cushelle quilted toilet rolls -so much better than Andrew.
However when there are a few sheets left on the cardboard tube they often start to unravel so they all end up on the floor.
Today there were 32sheets !
How do I stop this happening?
Is it because I have the hanging bit at the front rather than at the back of the holder?
Am I perhaps too aggressive when I tear some off?
Andrex not Andrew!
ReplyDeleteCushelle toilet rolls.
ReplyDeleteI have used these too, for many years since the days they were known as Charming. For some time I have been buying the double size rolls (only available at Waitrose in my area). Being twice as long as a normal roll there is much less changing over and they worked out cheaper.
Howeve, recently they are only supplying double length rolls made of recycled paper. That’s good I thought, very green, save the planet etc.
But they are awful, thin paper your fingers go through, holes in the middle of sheets, the perforation lines not matching up so you get one and a half pieces instead of two, tears in the edges, etc.
So bad I sent a whole roll back to the manufacturer and got a £5 voucher in exchange and no explanation or apology.
So I am now going to try the quilted ones like you LanJan and will let you know if I get the unrolling problem, in a week or two !
P.S. I like to hang them with the end hanging down the back. Mr A prefers it hanging down the front.
Question of the week …….Is there a right way or a wrong way?
Can’t stand quilted loo roll ( I use the word Lavatory, but not lavatory roll ! )
ReplyDeleteI buy the cheapest available, and then split the layers and crumple up.
Question of the week ? Hang with end hanging down the back.
I clearly remember the last time loo paper and it’s use was discussed.
It was during a period when I was locked out of the blog.
The discussion continued for a couple of days and I was in fits of laughter, desperately wanting to join in but unable to do so, as I could only read, not contribute.
Sorry LJ…. I do not have a solution to your problem.
Carrying on with the topic - does anyone remember Jeyes flat packs. My mum insisted they were more acceptable than rolls. We had a white China box fitted to the wall, the flat pack fitted in and you could pull out one sheet at a time -a bit like a box of tissues today
ReplyDelete“Rolls were common” and people could “put their fingers on the next sheet to be pulled off”!
Mind you, it was still the same stiff shiny paper. 😬
Yes I remember AP and yuk!
DeleteI have the same problem, Lanjan, ( Tesco 'soft luxury' rolls) & have found that it happens less, marginally, when rolled down from the back - though no guarantees !
ReplyDeleteStaggered at your energy, skill, knowledge & dedication, Cowgirl ! Lucky the cow who finds a home with you ....
Liked Lanjan's suggested book titles. May I add :
Rosettes for Cowgirl
Cowgirl & Friends
The Cow Whisperer
Cattle vote for Cowgirl
Thank you for your kind comments, not sure writing a few lines on the blog equates to writing a book.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, please dont tempt me , a couple of older people within the Kerry cattle society have been retiring and selling their cattle one of whom I sold a number of young stock to , I keep being tempted as I do miss them, but NO.
Toilet rolls paper must hang forward, so no marking of the walls as children sometimes do. With a septic tank. cheap twin roles are the order of the day.
Oh no Archerphile my mother insisted on Bronco, same stuff though.
Cowgirl, I enjoy your cow tails! Like KP am in awe of your energy!
ReplyDeleteWe are back from Italy. After 3 years at home it was so good to have a change! It was not all restful as the day was filled with painting, demonstrations and eating! There were no chores though which was grand! It was good to see so much greenery and the red roofs and colourful houses. We drank lots of wine locally made and not too strong but of good taste. The change has done me good and taken me out of the day to day. Travel wise, we went with EasyJet and apart from a small delay on the homeward flight it all went smoothly. Travelling up to London by train, although it was the day after a strike day all went well. Sometimes the apprehension before a journey is the worst part! 😊 The dogs nearly turned inside out when we were reunited! Both did well with Hannah and we know now we can leave them with her if we need a break and don’t need to worry. 🐶🐶🐾🐾
Glad you had such a lovely time Ev and no travel problems to speak of.
DeleteYou’ll be set up for the winter now with lots of new painting ideas. 🎨
How lovely to have a holiday in Italy,Ev .
DeleteIt might not have been restful but they say that a change is as good as a rest.
To get a bit serious for a moment:
ReplyDeleteDoes anyone else feel, as I do, about the millions of dollars being spent on attempting to send another rocket to the moon…whilst the UN is having to appeal to nations to send donations to Pakistan to help with the devastating floods?
The failed moon attempt was the first item on the BBC news yesterday with the floods much further down the list.
It seems almost obscene to me that untold millions are being spent on this moon shot attempt whilst a third of the population of Pakistan are without homes or food and all their possessions have been swept away. Why do we need another rocket to the moon in advance of several more manned flights. Don’t we have enough problems to sort out in this world first?
Yes ARCHERPHILE- I agree with you, though perhaps for different reasons.
DeleteWhilst I sympathise with your argument regarding the recent floods in Pakistan and the millions of people uprooted, the underlying reasons for such weather disturbances, global warming caused by US, the human race, in the drive to improve upon the basics of life, AND to attempt to further our expansion by reaching out to the space beyond this globe, is in my opinion immoral.
The hubris of man leads me to believe that the eradication of the human race is the only hope for this planet.
I said as much to Mr R when the news came on AP it infuriates me that so much emphasis is put on space travel. Without a doubt the rocket fuel used affects the atmosphere and is a contributor along with our cars to global warming. When we were in full lockdown 😃with hardly a car on the road or a plane in the sky the air was so special once again and the peace and freshness of the environment is now only a dream once again 😢
DeleteI can’t see where this is going. We have a natural curiosity about the unknown or America might never have been discovered but the hostile environment on the moon and Mars, our nearest planet means that they can never be colonised. There might be valuable minerals etc and much to explore but agree our priority should be improving the lot of deprived people here on Earth and looking after our precious resources.
ReplyDeleteI believe there are a number of fans of Anne Cleeve and her Vera character amongst us.
ReplyDeleteShe was on Front Row this evening discussing her new book.
Her next book has already been submitted and is set in North Devon.
I have in the last few minutes posted two items.
ReplyDeleteThe first is shown as being posted at 8.53 pm
The second shown as 8.58 pm
In between Ev has a post showing as 8.56 pm
The time now is actually two minutes to ten !
Archerphile….I’m totally with you in regards of this blooming rocket. What a waste of money. We have enough problems on this planet never mind trying to find some more on other planets. It makes my blood boil.
ReplyDeleteMe too,Archerphile
ReplyDeleteComplete and wicked waste of money and in the past of life too including the poor dog Laika who didn't get the choice of whether to go into space or not.
If you haven't tried quilted Archerphile I bet you will like it!
Do you remember when you could get coloured toilet paper?
Perhaps you still can.
The best use for Izal or bronco was for tracing paper.
Sorry won't mention the subject again .
You could also use the shiny paper for plying the comb & paper. Just couldn’t use it for the supposed purpose!
DeleteRegarding space exploration, I find myself agreeing with MrsP, humanity has comprehensively screwed the planet, and although individuals live’s have improved massively (absolute poverty, starvation, childhood mortality all down, life expectancy up) it has been at a huge cost to the planet. There are still large inequalities which could reverse some of these gains and the challenges ahead of ageing population which is being faced in many countries may be solved by science, or maybe not, I don’t know.
The gains that come from new scientific research aren’t always foreseeable at the start but that shouldn’t stop the research from happening. I get more upset about billionaires polluting the oceans with their super-yachts than with governments employing space scientists.
I completely agree with Mrs. P. I also think that the invasion of space is about exploitation rather than exploration.
ReplyDeleteYes MISTRAL - I agree, it is exploitation in the guise of exploration.
DeleteThe goal is apparently to explore other planets, other worlds, but once there it becomes unbelievable that plunder will not be employed, ( and as much as possible over time )
EV suggests there might be minerals ( presumably of use to us on earth )
but what right do we have to arrive and take what we may think we need,
having already plundered this our own planet.
And the realisation in this time that mistakes were made when exploring in earlier times, ( indigenous peoples being wiped out, or their life long practices or languages denied them ) does not give me any hope that such acknowledgment would temper the activities of todays ‘ explorers ‘ .
I quoted minerals not because I think it right to plunder them but because I see these possibilities as a motive for the exploration of space which I certainly don’t condone.
DeleteThe remainder of Mr S's ashes are to be transported to NZ, which is where he was thinking of going when I first met him. His daughter has decided to help him (in part) finally achieve his goal.
ReplyDeleteThat’s so lovely to hear Sarnia 🌹
DeleteWe should not allow ourselves to be in the advent of the Apocalypse facing trials and tribulations indicating that the world will suffer/end.
ReplyDeleteThe people of the world have always suffered at the hands of religions, dictators, capitalism. Geographical/ boundary changes, and weather conditions and central is to exploit the earth and its populations.
Governments in their political expressions use their populations for gain and will ignore the needs of individuals to enter competitive activities.
India is an example where many are hungry and disenfranchised but they have created nuclear atomic weapons and sent rockets into space.
The political imperative is to follow A and B in order to seek standing on a world stage, never mind the moral imperative to feed the hungry.
In an Nihilistic way they have created:the conditions for the Apocalypse but claim it is for the betterment of the world.
Je vais sur les barricades.
I have been to India and was appalled at the dire poverty there. Unfortunately the caste system keeps these poor people in their place. When we came back we sponsored a young girl in Patna through World Vision. She is now 18 and hoping to be a teacher. W V are now pulling out of the area as their task is complete. They have educated the people in hygiene, respect for women and so on and have given them the means to make a living. I agree it is sinful that India has nuclear weapons and sends rockets into space while appalling conditions exist in their country. I would never want to go back as the poverty, filth and extreme begging really got to me.
DeleteHell's teeth! I'm going to trim my spiral dwarf conifer.
ReplyDeleteA grim, brutal but utterly truthful description of what has really gone on down the centuries, Stasia. 'Power corrupts & absolute power corrupts absolutely' as the saying goes. It couldn't be more transparent than in our current times. History was a favourite subject of mine at school; now I see how biased it is...
ReplyDeleteHave there really been no new comments since yesterday evening on either blog or is there a blip in the system somewhere. I have restarted the pages/ipad but no change so far. Will try again later.
ReplyDeleteMaybe September has come as a bit of a shock! It certainly is very quiet and I wonder whether we have lost some to other blogs. That would be very sad! I’m getting back into the routine! Buddy went out with the dog walker, Hannah, today and Dudley and I took a leisurely stroll down to the creek. We met Bill, an elderly cross breed with one eye. He was a rescue dog and must be about 15 by now. He didn’t have an easy life until Merv took him on 7 years ago and he is much loved. He is a dear chap and enjoys his walks even though somewahat shorter nowadays! Yesterday met a lady cutting her hedge, about my age and we always put the world to rights! We have decided a pensioner revolution with waving sticks is the answer and we will be like that evil granny in the Giles cartoons!😉😊😂
DeleteEv as you are talking about rescue dogs I e#would lie to tell you about Gazza. When I moved my dog Tosca was lonely as she missed her friend, so I decided to get her a friend from the Dogs Trust.I selected three , one wasnt suitable so we tried her with just the 2.. She was fine with the older lady, but when Gazza came it was love at first sight, she allowed him to mount her, something she had never allowed another dog, even though she teased them .He was certainly not my first choice, he was of Alsation type, suffered
Deletefrom nervous aggression and had bitten when previously been rehomed. He was 6 and had been with the dogs trust for 3 years, I said it was her choice so I signed the waiver and took him home,
He immediately chased the cats, I was told he was tested, he chased the chickens and barked at the cows, When my first visitors came he barked ferociously for an hour before settling down, next visitors just 10 minutes after which he gave up never to do it again.
He was an intelligent dog and quickly learnt not to chase as each time he did he went in with the sheep each time he pulled on the lead he went home and Tosca and I went out again. When I felt safe to let him off he stuck his nose in the air and calmly walked through them, He remained difficult with strangers but there were rarely people on the common.Every one who knew him loved him children included with whom he was loving, though no dog was ever left on their own with them
It was a sad day 11 years on when he died. He rests under a damson tree the jam of which is known as Gazza jam.
thought i had checked like !
ReplyDeleteVery long and exciting weekend, Thurs-Tuesday with visits to Naiisworth, Wye valley, Sun/Mob with son and family, and finally a day out in IoW, with lunch at the Spyglass Inn in Ventnor and an aborted attempt at swimming at Freshwater, due to being knocked over by a wave.
ReplyDeleteThird anniversary of widowhood mercifully passed me by in all the comings and goings after the several years trapped in the house!
Put off blogging by grim warnings of the Apocalypse as I'm still trying to recover from a personal one of my own.
3yrs Sarnia I can’t believe, then again coming up 2 for Mr LJ?
DeleteLovely to read more of your happy trips out. Tried swimming in the sea! I am in awe 🤗
Been very busy with visits from two sets of grandchildren over the last couple of weeks. Have been to Chester Zoo twice in 6 days and am looking forward to getting back to normal. I'm really behind with the garden but it will have to wait till I've had a good rest!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a lovely weekend Sarnia.
Have enjoyed your cow stories CowGirl.
This blog does seem to ebb & flow. The viewing stats have always jumped around a lot but I feel the conversations remain enjoyable & everyone is always welcoming, which is what matters in my book.
ReplyDeleteI’ve had a busy couple of days clearing out the kitchen as we are off to Suffolk for one of my nephews’ wedding tomorrow, not getting home until Monday, and come Tuesday the builders move in to replace the kitchen. We’re not knocking down any walls, just having the existing kitchen gutted, then some extra electrical sockets, re-plastering and new units with some extra cupboards along a wall that currently just has some free-standing units.
I do have a ridiculous amount of kitchen paraphernalia, lots of which I use only occasionally but wouldn’t want to get rid of. I am getting quite excited about it now, I just hope it goes smoothly.
Sounds good KP and look forward to hearing all about your new kitchen, a complete change of style? Enjoy the wedding celebrations and 🤞🏼for smooth journeys.
DeleteThere was no 'warning' of Apocalypse here, rather descriptions of what is already here - the very evident & sad mess man has made of the world. The more who see this, & are heeded, it is possible the tide could turn, though no guarantees, of course.
ReplyDeleteI am in contact with 4 people who have been widowed in the last year. They were all in long, loving relationships, &, inevitably, they are suffering the painful stages of grief, both emotionally & physically. I greatly admire how, in their different ways, they are coping mentally, can talk about how they feel personally & still relate to the outside world & what is going on for everyone.
Then I'm obviously of weaker stock than them because I'm too tired to be bothered with it.
DeleteHope your spiral dwarf conifer didn't suffer too much Sarnia 😉. Nothing like a garden for soothing the soul. Two friends from Wales have been staying, one of whom lost her husband, also a close friend of ours, about 6 weeks ago, and we have simply been reminiscing about shared times over the last 40 plus years and revisiting places he loved to go to when here in Cornwall. We have a wooden swing seat up in the field where you can look down the hill to the sea and our friend found sitting on that very soothing. We have not talked once about the state of the world and, just a thought Caroline, maybe those widows who do are ducking facing their grief.
DeleteThat seat sounds very inviting Janice and can understand it would have a calming effect
Deleteon one’s soul and also lift one’s spirits.
Janice, Sept 1st above 10.08pm: I thought I'd made clear that there was no 'grief ducking', quite the reverse, the facing of loss, & processing of difficult, sometimes contradictory, feelings is still going on a year later, &, in one case considerably less than that. I was not saying they are eager to discuss the world's woes, simply that they haven't lost awareness of life outside their bubble, & whilst needing plenty of time for reflection, sometimes in compatible company, they haven't lost that urge to engage with others & life generally in gradual increments.
DeleteThe friend you talked about, going through such a very recent loss, surely found contact with you, the chance to talk about the past, & just sitting in a safe quiet space, comforting & healing.
Please do not imagine I would initiate an exchange of views about the world situation in such circumstances ! If such topics crop up naturally, so be it. If not, not.
I've been reading but not posting as I haven't had anything worthwhile to say..
ReplyDeleteA lovely afternoon today - on a lounger in the garden, with glorious sunshine, just reading a book.
Garden is nice and tidy and it will look even better tomorrow, as my lovely young chap will be cutting the hedges.This is one job I no longer do myself, as I hate using the hedge trimmer.
Re kitchens. In our last house I never seemed to get the cupboards filled to my satisfaction. Every so often I’d have a change about….totally confusing Mr PtbY. I’m the same in this kitchen. So I’m going to store some paraphernalia, good word, in plastic boxes and put them in the garage. I can’t bear to get rid of….a cherry stoner, a jam pan and various odds and sods. I will start this when the weather turns. Whilst it’s fine the house can wait. I’m enjoying myself too much in the garden to bother with it.
ReplyDeleteWhat a well balanced attitude, PtbY !
DeleteCarolyn, you are right people manage their grief in different ways depending on their own interpersonal skills, confidence and relationships. Grieving can become complicated and emotionally unhealthy if the dynamics are unequal.
ReplyDeleteGrief is paradoxical we can continue to emotionally experience the loss of a partner whilst being aware of external activities, we can still go through the emotions of the stages of grieving and remain engaged with the world.
Repressing or as Janice said, “ducking or facing their grief” implies turning away from the external world and suggests a dysfunctional reaction to the loss of a partner.
In my experience repressed emotions are symptomatic of that individuals lack of confidence and coping skills. Lack of equality and disempowerment in a long standing relationship can have a big impact when one loses that dependence on an other. Suddenly finding oneself having to face a void can be scary especially when faced with having to take control of one’s own fife.
Reactions to death of a partner do vary as one woman in response to my question of “ how are you coping?” Replied I’m glad the bustards gone, I can get on with my life, go places and enjoy life”.
She spent her life grieving for the life she was never ‘allowed’ to experience. What she then needed was to develop the confidence and skills to engage with the world.
How honest she was, Stasia, & how fortunate she felt safe enough with you to express the truth !
DeleteAgreed, & the negative side isn't always that extreme. Even in long & basically close marriages, there are sticky places, & it's a relief for the bereaved to acknowledge them. Simple life lesson - no one is perfect, self included !
Thank you for the lecture on widowhood and dealing with grief, Stasia. Have you had to watch a spouse of over 50 years go barking mad to his grace with all the accompanying medical unpleasantness, and then had to deal with clearing a huge garden and a house after decades of neglect? There must surely be a text book to show me how to deal with all of this if only I had known where to find it.
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, his death was a blessed relief, but it still leaves a profound sadness for the life's experiences that made him the insecure and angry man that he was underneath.
And by the way, I have no car or automatic washing machine, I am a minimal user
of gas and electricity and recycle as much as my tardy local authority will permit, but I doubt it makes much difference to the overall state of the planet.
As for Ukraine, thank you, I was born into an occupied country so am familiar with barbed wire, air raid sirens and road signs in a foreign language.
Would you mind awfully if I politely requested that you direct your vast lexicon if knowledge to a different subject?
I don’t think anyone knows what it is like to lose a partner until it happens and each of us grieves in our own way. I found in the early stages keeping busy with some time too for reflection helped. I chose not to have counselling although some find it helpful and even essential for them. Sarnia, I’m sorry life has been so hard for you and hope now you are finding the way forward. I have found adapting to single status is a long process but the upside is being able to make decisions without consulting anyone else. Mike always stayed with Magnolia walls but now my bungalow is all the colours of the rainbow! I’m planning on having a new kitchen where he would have said that nothing’s wrong with the old one but everything is wrong in my eyes! Of course I would have magnolia walls and wonky kitchen if I could have him back but that’s not going to happen! All you can do is reflect on the past but importantly look to the future.
DeleteThank you, Ev, I'm just coming to the end of a fantastic 2 1/2 weeks with my daughter and next week I'm to Greece with son and family. Yes, it's been hard, but it's all beginning to work out, this time with things as I want them, so thank you, I'm doing fine.
DeleteYou certainly are Sarnia 👏🏻
DeleteEv I am going to screenshot your beautiful, wise and sensitive post on the loss of a partner
Although I hope not to be referring to it for sometime yet (should it even work out that way)
but the age gap is there.
Just a follow on about people dealing with grief in different ways, sometimes it can be difficult for friends to know the most helpful thing to do or say. My friend is still in the early stages of grief, she and her husband were very close and at the moment she breaks down at any reminder of him but we have still been talking about him because it is probably good to express grief, and to recall happy memories to try to counter the last two years of his ill health. She is very fortunate in that although they had no children she has 3 supportive sisters who are organising the necessary admin/probate tasks.
ReplyDeleteThe other friend who has also been here suggested that she should do a road trip to reconnect with her friends and that is what they are doing. One she hadn't seen in 27 years. Rebuilding a supportive network of friends should be helpful, although the crunch will come when she returns to an empty house in North Wales. Having to walk and care for their springer spaniel should help.
For those of you who are concerned about energy use: in the long term , by 2030 hopefully, Tokamak (nuclear fusion) will have sorted that problem. 35 countries are involved in that endeavour, and Britain has its own tokamak facility near Oxford. So it is not all doom and gloom.
DeleteThen it will be a question of helping poorer countries to create their own nuclear fusion ( not fission!) plants.
We will be able to use nuclear fusion to power space travel and exploration, and to provide power on other planets, and of course having tokamak on earth will lessen the need to exploit other planets. Yes there are things that need tending to here on earth in the present, but we ignore the long term at our, and our descendants, peril.
For those interested in gardening. This afternoon, now that my other friends have left, I am taking a friend out to the moor to show her where there are some willow trees by a stream that the moorland sheep use to rub their coats off. She has a spinning wheel so thought the wool was wanted for that but no. Apparently, and I have no idea if it works, if you dig in sheep's wool around the base of plants and thoroughly water it then the wool will retain the water and keep roots moist. Worth trying in these times of drought and hosepipe bans, if you have access to sheep's wool or similar.
DeleteThat is indeed interesting Janice, and like you I’ve never heard this tip before.
DeleteI’ve already noticed the field edge where sheep wool rub is available and when I get to plant up I will certainly give it a try.
Thank you for passing that tip on.
As Katy does the grooming, we could try that with the dog clippings! Both have a lovely soft coat so it might work!
DeleteBlessings, Janice.
ReplyDeleteI’m not sure that anyone will still be interested, but just an update on our friend with Alzheimer’s who ‘had a filing cabinet fall on her’ in her so-called care home.
ReplyDeleteMr A drove down to see her in her Portsmouth hospital yesterday, as requested by her partner who is finding it very difficult to cope with daily visits and maintain his business.
Mr A was shocked and horrified by the change in her. She is as thin as a rake, still has signs of the black eyes, bruises all over her arms and legs and busts into tears frequently saying she wants to go home. She is constantly trying to climb over the side-rails of her bed, trying to get out, which she is not supposed to do. She didn’t really recognise Mr A and keeps asking the same questions over and over. She is obviously completely unaware of what happened, or is happening, to her.
The awful thing is she was only diagnosed with the early signs of Alzheimer’s 2 years ago because of forgetfulness, but was still functioning quite normally, selling her paintings, having exhibitions etc. In two years the deterioration has been very rapid and it’s thought she will never be able to return home now and a suitable place will have to be found for her - a very long task apparently.
The police are still pursuing the case and interviewing involved staff at the original home where the ‘accident’ happened and the hospital.
Mr A arrived home in a very shocked and upset state, aware that there is really nothing we can do to help and that there are probably many other families and friends in a similar position.
That is appalling, AP, & it sounds as if the Alzheimer's has deteriorated rapidly since the so called 'accident'. I guess good friends, like Mr AP, visiting, does help her poor husband, but the system for care is broken, & there's no tangible sign of improvement. As you say, many are in similar desperate situations; surely addressing this robustly is a human priority for any nation ? Health facilities, ability 'to heat & eat' are a few others..
DeleteSarnia, my “lecture” was a response in support of Carolyn’s last comment on the discourse about engagement in the world ofter loss. It is your prerogative to interpret the narrative from your own perspective. I was hopefully adding some insights having worked as a psychiatrist with individuals experiencing emotional trauma and how they engaged with the external world.
DeleteArcherphile what an absolutely heartbreaking situation and I really feel for her partner and Mr A being so impotent to ease her burden in anyway. Oh for a magic wand they will all be in my thoughts and 🙏🏼
DeleteMy lovely chap came and cut my hedges as arranged this morning. He fitted me in, knowing it wasn't a massive job as he was going away for the weekend. I felt really quite priveledged. What a good job he did and only charged me £80, money very well spent. At least when it's cold and miserable, I will look out onto a neat garden.
ReplyDeleteI had a lovely short video sent tiday - my 11yr grand niece driving the ride on mower and cutting the lawn in big Sis's garden.
Thank goodness she has another 6 years before she can take to the open road!
I am horrified on reading the post by Archerphile, re the "so-called accident" of the falling filing cabinet.
ReplyDeleteI hope that the truth about this situation is found, to prevent a further, similar happening.
It seems too late for this sad person, the trauma of which has caused irreversible damage, both physical and mental.
As a pharmacist, I was responsible for supplying the meds for a nursing home which supposedly specialised in dementia. It was a horrible place, not least that it was an old convent and the rooms were originally the nun's quarters and so small and dark. The residents did not have the best care and it was eventually closed down by social services due to neglect of the residents.
Sadly these residents had been just tranquilsed to keep them subdued,I knew as I supplied the meds, rather than having the best quality of care. I took advice about could I do anything to alert the situation, but my hands were tied.
This was only 10yrs ago.
My point is that things are not always what they seem on the surface.
As Carolyn said, Miriam has illustrated and ARCHERPHILE has described and we can all agree social care in this country is well and truly broken. And it is not just the last decade. My mother died 24 years ago in a nursing home which wasn’t too bad at all, but I made sure she was in a home where I was able to be present on a daily basis, and with a strong enough personality to make my presence known.
DeleteAt the same time I was a member of a carers centre and along with several others - all women - ensured that poor practice was brought to the attention of the authorities.
A very close friend has been working with the elderly - for a number of years in a day centre and for the last few years with a local care home - and she reports to me that nothing much has changed.
She chooses to work as a cleaner, and under such cover has the time and the humanity to give one to one interaction with as many of the ‘inmates’ as she can.
I thank God that my mothers 11yrs in care were spent in a fantastic (in every way) “Council” Care Home. Lovely decor, meals and entertainment etc and caring staff. Hopefully being able to hang onto that calibre as she passed 9yrs ago. Like you Mrs P we were extremely present in her life and that included taking her out as well.
DeleteWhen I first asked would it be ok if I came the next day too Sue the manager looked at me in a very strange way as she replied “Of course you can - come anytime (up to 10pm even) this is your mum’s home now and you must feel as free to visit her here as you did when she was in her own home” I have never forgotten that and we got to know many of the staff so well. Lucky lucky her and us 🙏🏼
I was saddened to learn about the death of Bill Turnball, yesterday.
ReplyDeleteI watched the tribute to him this morning, which was so moving.
BBC Breakfast to me, has never been the same, since he retired.
I remember him partaking in in a Stand up to Cancer Great British Bake Off, shortly after his diagnosis, which was very poignant.
...and brave.
DeleteYes, I was very sad to hear about Bill Turnbull. Mike and I used to enjoy his wit and journalistic Knowhow on Breakfast. He was never rude as some commentators are when questioning people but he was firm and direct. 66 is no age and I feel for his wife and family.
DeleteRegarding care of the elderly, some homes are very good but the few who don’t care are of great concern. People with dementia are helpless and it is so cruel when they are neglected, drugged or badly treated. It shouldn’t happen in a civilised country. On another note, my sister in law who had a fall in hospital which meant a long stay there has now been moved to a rehab home in Winsford, about 15 miles from Crewe. In hospital there was no TV and she was getting very low and not moving about. She is now reading, watching TV and moving about more. It shows how long stays in hospital can be so detrimental as the medical needs are met but not the emotional. She has been lucky in being found a place and more of this kind of care needs to be forthcoming. It did free up a hospital bed too!
My late father, who was found on the floor with a broken femur, spent only 4 days in hospital which included the day of his op. to pin + plate it. He was transferred to a rehab unit, the wards of which had just 6 beds, a seating area with TV, a dining table and chairs for meals and they were encouraged to wear their normal daily clothes. He also had his own radio with ear phones as loved music. It was light and airy and fun, yet still received the correct physiotherapy and medical care. He was there for about 5 weeks, far better than in hospital or at home with carers.
DeleteSadly such places are few and far.
He was very lucky Miriam. Sounds like one of the old, much missed Cottage Hospitals which were ideal for recovery after an operation or stay in a major hospital.
DeleteWe collected the rest of the ashes on Friday. He was presented gift-wrapped in a shiny red carry-bag with gold handles complete with necessary documentation, all ready for his epic journey to NZ. A little late, as he was toying with the idea when we first met in 1965, although whether he would actually have done it is anyone's guess. This time he's actually on his way to Heathrow.
ReplyDeleteFarewell Mr S. Hope you’ll love New Zealand as much as you had hoped. 🥲
DeleteSarnia I agree 100% with Archerphile’s post. Safe journey with
Deleteyour daughter Mr S 🌈 ✈️
Apparently he's made it through Customs. San Francisco may not be quite so straightforward!
DeleteBut it will add a ( possibly large) amount of interest to your daughters journey home Sarnia.
DeleteGood luck to her.
True, Mrs P. She has a 6-hour wait in SF!
ReplyDeleteInteresting that your daughter seems to have lived out his dream if she lives in Auckland.
DeleteI don't recollect mention of any specific place, Janice, just New Zealand, in which case Auckland seems as good as anywhere else.
ReplyDeleteJanice, further to life in Auckland: Jessica was so very taken with the courtyard and its Moroccan lanterns (her brother calls it my 'moongarden') that she has bought more, two for him and two for her garden in Mount Eden, so that we can all look at them and be together. I was quite overcome.
ReplyDeleteWhat one needs ,I found ,when one loses one's husband are a few really good friends.
ReplyDeleteNot having my lovely sons living nearby meant that for the first time in my life I was alone but by golly didn't those friends rally round.
A good friend listens and allows the bereaved person to talk .
That is what I have found .
I never contemplated going for counselling
It just never occurred to me.
Nobody suggested it but I would not have gone anyway.
My friends listened to me whilst I repeated myself constantly
They weren't trained .
Nobody told them what to do
They didn't tell me what to do.
They just knew
They just listened.
That was what I needed.
I suspect that is what most people need but sadly perhaps many people are not fortunate enough to have even one really good friend.
Perhaps if that is the case then sadly a Counsellor is needed.
Of course I had the cats too.
They have been very understanding.