Life outside Ambridge


                                                     One of the walls at Mottisfont 

Comments

  1. Proud to be Yorkshire.June 14, 2023 at 9:33 PM
    Thanks everyone. Going in for noon tomorrow. 🏃‍♀️before long. 😊

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    Sarnia June 14, 2023 at 11:34 PM
    All the best!

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    Cheshire CheeseJune 15, 2023 at 7:05 AM
    Hope all goes well PtbY.

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    JaniceJune 15, 2023 at 7:20 AM
    Good luck PtbY.

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  2. Lanjan.June 15, 2023 at 11:32 AM
    I have just had a very nice thank you letter from the Friends of the Animals .
    She/ he Chris Mirehouse mentioned that it was in memory of.Marlene/ Ev

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    MiriamJune 15, 2023 at 3:12 PM
    I have just read that that Glenda Jackson has died.
    I was surprised to see this, as for some unkown reason, I thought she had already gone..🙈

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    MiriamJune 15, 2023 at 3:20 PM
    As per many actresses of her era, she did a brilliant appearance in a Morecombe + Wise Show, in a play "wot I rote".
    I loved her in the TV drama - Elizabeth is Missing and I hope this is now shown again as a tribute.

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    Sarnia June 15, 2023 at 4:51 PM
    I was equally surprise

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  3. I was equally surprised when I heard that Angela Lansbury had died. She was such a formidable lady that she rather gave the impression that the Grim Reaper wouldn't dare...

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  4. I’ve reposted the details for EV’s funeral so people can find them easily, and will try to do so again the day before (if I remember)

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  5. Oh beautiful Mottisfont in June!
    We go most years to walk around the lovely walled rose garden but will be unable to do so this year.
    Even with the help of the little ‘taxi’ from the car park to the garden, I shouldn’t be able to walk around the roses beds or stand for long. Very wobbly on my feet and haven even had to return to using two walking sticks to get to the end of our garden without falling over!
    Never mind, we have a beautiful Albertine in full flower on the long trellis, with a pretty little bright organge Warm Welcome threading though it. Also Dorothy Perkins will be in full bloom very soon, scrambling up through a weeping Birch and over the wall. Always a wonderful sight.

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    1. Like yourself AP we have wonderful memories of Mottisfont Rose Garden I can smell them even as I write. The very warm / hot weather will not be helping you with regards to strength and mobility AP, so take great care, it has wiped me out evenings from around 9pm I like best when I water our handful of pots a little bit of a bite to the air - beautiful 🙃 🤣

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    2. Hope you regain strength soon Archerfile.
      I've never been to Monttisfont but a walled rose garden sounds lovely. My daughter in law saw a rose called Brushstrokes in a display in the Royal Cornwall flower tent and liked it, so my son has ordered it online for their 5th wedding anniversary. It should be arriving here today, and as it is a secret I have to hide it for a few days . It is a floribunda, yellow with splashes of orange.

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    3. That sounds a lovely rose. I have one called Oranges and Lemons, which sounds similar, but the flowers fade very quickly.

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  6. I've just replied to your last post on the other blog PtbY. My reply was "It will PtbY, just make sure you take all the pain relief on offer"

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  7. I’ve had my thank you letter from the animal rescue today.

    Thinking of you PtbY - round from anaesthetic and a decent sleep.
    Hope pain is bearable.

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  8. I went on a trip to and a tour of HINKLEY POINT yesterday.
    Very very interesting, particularly about the forest of cranes and especially the central one which is apparently the biggest in the world.
    Up on the moor after sundown recently and looking north, seeing the site all lit up at night, it really does resemble a small city.
    I was reminded by the tour in a bus along with the presentation, of the three years in a run of the Olympic site as that grew in size and development.
    Whether you approve of and accept nuclear or not, I would certainly recommend this experience to anyone with the smallest of scientific interest.
    The visitor centre, a mile or so distant, was a revelation in itself and is open to the public on a daily basis. A 13c Religious House for women with all its buildings and courtyards intact and I was told a walled garden. I have friends who come to holiday in Somerset and it will definitely be a return to that impressive centre when they next visit.

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  9. Had a dreadful morning. Muscle spasm getting back into bed after x-Ray. Pain off the scale. Unfortunately physio came then and was insistant on doing bed exercises and trying to get me out of bed. Agony and tears. Mega pain killers and ice pack needed. Surgeon came for a visit and said to rest today so when different physio came this aft I refused and sent him away. Much better tonight. Might have to have a relapse tomorrow so I can stay in til Monday! Lol. Food is fab.

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    1. Glad you are safely through the op. I always reckon any food I don't have to cook myself is fab.

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    2. Janice - he he he he he !

      PtbY
      Bloody physios !
      But your through the dangerous part. Awake and well, if in pain.
      Each day forward will be improvement.
      Go girl !

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  10. hope tomorrow is easier PTBY. And Cooler.

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  11. Thoughts are with you ptby - great that you are being so honest with us regarding your particular experience but do hope the very worst of your pain will decrease soon, the physios of course will say that the exercises will help in this regard (eventually) as you progress with them….
    Good to hear that the food is A1 a real plus ⭐️

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  12. As AmbridgeMrsP says 'Go Girl !' Hope the pain starts to fade !
    Spicy xxx

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  13. Things will improve PtbY. I had an awful post op experience with my first hip replacement and a much better one with the second. Hip and knee replacements are so routine nowadays that it's not realised just what major surgery it is. I know how hard it is but you will get there.

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  14. I'll second that. One day at a time, PtbY.

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  15. Archerphile did you get your phone call from the surgery and was it satisfactory 🤞🏼

    Currently watching Trooping the colour had chosen iPlayer without commentary but just started to
    Reese so back to Hugh Edwards oh dear I wish he would keep quiet at least some of the time.

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    1. I watched it in the same way. At what time did it freeze, as I only had a slight problem when the gun salute was happening, and it soon passed.
      I did at one time change onto the commentated version, but soon switched back!
      Huw Edwards doesn't just commenate but, in my opinion, feels the need to constantly talk in an uneccesary way.
      I bet His Majesty had a few words about his horse!!

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  16. Sorry out of touch. We have major problem with electrics - no cooker or shower and no power upstairs which is where the WiFi modem plugs in - so no wifi!
    Couldn’t even listen to the special Fri night episode of TA so have to listen to The omnibus tomorrow morning on an old steam radio.
    Been trying to avoid hearing or reading anything about it all day.
    I suspect a rodent has eaten through some wires in the loft or under a floor.
    (Sending this via daughters phone)

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    1. Oh no AP are you sure you have not broken a mirror such times you have been having in the last few days, months even years on and off. Do hope this latest situation will be sorted asap 🤞🏼 when back to normal will look forward to an update on your own medical support situation…..

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    2. AP What an awful situation which is certainly not what you need at this moment in time...
      Take Care 🥰

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    3. Oh AP, you're not having much luck at the moment. Hope things get better soon.

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  17. Hope you are asleep now P tbY and have had a better day.
    I liked Janice's comment about food.
    I dislike cooking .
    I decided to buy some Jersey Royals!
    They were not cheap but I had had a win on Ernie.
    They are not the same as they used to be.
    As a child I used to love rubbing the skins off them.
    There were no skins on these
    I used to like peas in pods before Bird's Eye interfered .
    However I managed with kale which I am sure must have been " invented " in this Century because I am sure I have never eaten it when I was young.
    Haven't a clue if what I did was the right way to cook the kale.
    I decide to steam both the potatoes and the kale .put butter on both.



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  18. Lanjan, I always thought kale was grown as cattle food in this country, also sugarbeet, but over the last few years my farmer daughter has grown it, apparently now a trendy veg like Purple Sprouting Broccoli and cavelo nero. I love Jersey Royals. My son who lives in Jersey says it is impossible to get them over there because its much more profitable to export them. Also, yes to butter. My mother didn't seem to go in for gravy, we always had buttered veg. Delicious. I'm starving now...

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  19. I'd never heard of kale but Mr S started to grow it when our children were young. I hated having to pick it because it was always covered with clouds of whitefly. Didn't like eating it either, but he insisted that it was necessary for the nutritional value. Why does everything that's supposed to be good for you have to taste so horrible?

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  20. Regarding kale: I slice it quite finely toss in a small amount of sesame oil, Chinese five spice & garlic granules then roast for about 12 mins until crisped but not too charred, not sure what this does to it’s much vaunted nutritional values but it tastes great. I also uses i in a coconut & chickpea curry. It turns up quite a lot in my Riverford veg box, fortunately they also provide plenty of recipe ideas

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    1. I roast kale as well KP, we much prefer it done like that. It also works as kale mash with potatoes and goes well in a trout and kale risotto done with lemon juice.
      In spite of .pinching them out I've got a bad infestation of blackfly onmy broad beans. Hopefully spraying them with horticultural soap will help a bit.

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  21. It is very unusual for me to comment on food because I do so hate cooking however I really love vegetables like purple flowering broccoli ,Brussels sprouts and cauliflower and now.
    kale
    I do enjoy making things that are not very good for me like rum truffles ,marzipan fruits and chocolate biscuit cake but I have now made some breakfast bars which may have some goodness in them and I really like them.
    I mix muesli(Jordan' ) with a few extra porage oats and stem crystalised (with the sugar washed off)) ginger ,nuts,mixed fruit including dates ,honey and butter .
    I bake it in the oven and cut it into slices .
    It is a bit like flapjack but hopefully it is more wholesome.

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    1. Competing with Jill Lanjan 🤔 🤣 sound yummy anyway!

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    2. Sounds delucious, but perhaps are bit too sweet for my taste. I am a savoury person..

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  22. Next storm just starting and building up very quickly. It's so hot + humid, yet still and quiet with no birds - always a bad sign.
    I was awake at 2.00am this morning with a real cracker of a storm!
    Luckily 🐈‍⬛ is not bothered, as long as she is close by me.
    To add - in the time it took to write this - it's hit!

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  23. I love veggies - but I do have my dislikes:- broad beans, courgettes, marrow, aubergine, with kale being border-line as to take it or leave it.
    I am addicted to cabbage, particularly what I call Spring Greens This week it is only a sweetheart one, to be eaten along with the usual cauli, carrots, green beans (of many sorts), swede, leeks, as my fancy takes me.
    I also just love beetroot, a major part of my salad lunch. I make a wonderful beetrooot + garlic concotion, done in a foil parcel in the oven..It's good hot or cold.

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  24. PtbY: another day nearly done and dusted: another step towards mobility, literally.

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    1. Yes, hope things are improving PtbY.

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    2. PTBY are you home yet or still enjoying the hospital hospitality?

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    3. A few years ago a friend had a rough time for a few days post hip op with sickness and discomfort maybe ptby has also been unfortunate in this regard and is needing all her strength for physio. Hopefully she will read our goodwill wishes and be back with us soon.

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  25. Came home yesterday. Hate lying here not being able to do stuff. Got first physio appointment back at Hosp next Tuesday. Doing the bed exercises but not going to do the standing ones until after day 5. Does feel a little easier today.
    Thanks for all your good wishes. I admire anyone who’s been through this and survived!!
    Back to the talking book.

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    1. There will be ups and downs PtbY, but it will gradually get better.

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    2. Lovely to hear from you ptby 💐

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    3. 🍫🍫🍫 Chocolate helps make things better!

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  26. So glad to hear you are home again PtbY. And hopefully starting to recover.
    I know the exercises are painful and difficult, even the ones lying on a bed, but do persevere with them because they will make such a difference to your full recovery.
    I still stand holding the long towel rail in the bathroom every morning, swinging my leg backwards and forwards and trying to do knees bend!
    I hope they show you how to bend to open a cupboard or pick things up from the floor in a little while - with your operated leg sticking out behind you - I saw a lady in the supermarket doing just that recently to reach something on a low shelf - Aha, a recent hip op, I thought to myself!

    For everyone else, as you can see I have wifi back again. The electrician was here for nearly 3 hours this morning trying to find the problem. It seems we have a damaged cable ( probably by rodents) under our bedroom floor. Fortunately he was able to Isolate that section and we only loose the use of one socket which is little used anyway. The alternative is to have carpet and floorboards up to try and find the damaged bit and repair it. I don’t we shall bother,
    So now we have hot water again, a shower, a working cooker , and lights Hooray!

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    1. AP. Have you checked your house insurance to see if such works such as electric repairs and disruption caused by these, might be covered?.
      Just thinking out loud, as finding the cause of the problem now, might prevent any future incidents.. 💁‍♀️

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    2. How your phone call with the Dr go Archerphile? All meds up to date now 🤞🏼
      Oh dear another bill 😱

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    3. Yes, eventually Lady R. She seemed very matter of fact about things. Agreed to continue with the hospital prescription and revue my BP again in a months time.
      I had found my diagnosis quite a shock and upsetting and had wanted to discuss the findings, prognosis, the future etc but she didn’t seem interested and gave me a bare 3 minutes of her time. I managed to ask about Alton Cardiac rehab but she said I didn’t fit the criteria so she couldn’t refer me!
      Having severe side effects with one of the tabs, like awful backache and dizziness, but trying to lessen by having it at night instead of morning , as it suggests on the box.

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    4. ARCHERPHILE

      May I suggest you speak to cardiac rehab yourself - even perhaps go along with Mr AP and have a quiet word with the physios there.
      I have been going to various rehab classes for the last fifteen years sometimes with, sometimes without a referral.
      Years ago GPs didn’t even seem to know that rehab classes were available and as yours has just told you, often believe that a patient does not fit the criteria. I suffered with a knee problem for twenty five years before I had surgery, . ( not because I was refused or didn’t fit the criteria but because I felt I was too young to have a replacement ) but I did go to rehab classes and senior keep fit throughout those years. Before I left Stroud I got myself, again into a cardiac class, because I knew how to by speaking with the physios, and it appals me how few patients they have who are willing to exercise in order to keep themselves fit and mobile.
      Also, I would suggest you get int touch with Hampshire Age UK who also. do many such classes. And your local gym or leisure centre may well do something similar.
      I currently do an over sixties fit club weekly where we do a chair based class one week and a circuit the following week. I then also do a Keep Strong and Safe class with Age UK on another day. I’ve given up on Tai Chi - also run by Age UK, because the instructors are too slow for my liking and I found that I was irritated instead of engaged.
      Age Uk also have a ruling that anyone over the age of sixty should not bend below the knee., which is a ridiculous ruling if an individual can do so with ease.
      But all the classes I attend have some over nineties still willing to work out at whatever level they can.
      I went to a stretch class this morning which was challenging, but none of these classes expect anyone to do more than work at their own level.
      I realise that you live out in the sticks but you still have your Micra, which as you know I envy you for, and so you can travel.
      I do hope you find something that suits you.
      Don’t let ‘them’ push you into giving up.
      And I hope you don’t mind me giving suggestions.

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    5. No, of course I don’t mind Mrs P. It is very kind an helpful of you to make these suggestions. My husband is going to speak to the supervisor at cardiac rehab tomorrow and see what they suggest. I would obviously have to take it very slowly at first as I can’t even walk the length of the garden without getting out of breath. And I am back to using 2 sticks for balance. . We’ll see what they say. They have kept Mr A going for 22 years after very major heart surgery so they must be good at what they do!

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    6. Thank you for your update Archerphile but I have to say a disappointing response for you from your Dr. Of course your diagnosis was a shock and very natural that you would prefer a face to face appointment. As you will know it was Dr Bethall from Mr R surgery who started up Alton rehab and so our surgeries are very involved in it, but it is as Mr A knows for the benefit of all in the area. Dr B also started “ Home Focus” visiting which I did for some years alongside Mondays at The Community Hospital Day Centre I enjoyed both enormously. Hope Mr A can get advice on your situation when he visits rehab today.
      Meanwhile hang on in there sending virtual support as I’m sure all who post (or just read) here do 🌻
      PS Our Surgeries say on their pre recorded messages that should you feel it is necessary face to face appointments are always available does yours state same?

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    9. Oh poo! I wrote a reply, it published twice so I tried to delete one, and it deleted both!!

      Just to say Lady R, it was Hugh Bethel who first assessed Gerald 20 years ago and has looked after him for many years since. Such a pity he is now retired. I remember he instigated information seminars for the relatives of patients facing major heart surgery. A much more dangerous prospect back then. We were told exactly what would happen during the operation, what to expect during recovery and how to look after our loved one when they came home. It was all very reassuring because heart surgery was to be carried out at the Royal Brompton Hospital in London, no local hospitals performed such complex surgery in those days
      Gerald did speak to the principal at rehab today but apparently you do have to have a GP or cardiologist’s referral. They have so many patients that there is no room for ‘casual exercisers’. But I shall try my exercise bike again soon and see how I get on

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    10. Well I’m pleased to heAr that the service you speak of has a full complement of patients ARCHERPHILE.
      Perhaps you can find something on line that you can do to regain your strength and mobility.
      I wish you the best.

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  27. I have finally got around to watching Magpie Murders. What a brilliant series, so well and cleverly done. I was enthralled through from start to finish - and no, I didn't solve it!

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  28. I have just read that the wonderful actress, Angela Thorne has died.
    She has appeared in many TV programmes, and also a regular in so many radio ones.
    I am listening on R4ex to No commitments, where she has a leading part.

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    1. A lovely Lady !
      I worked for a close friend of hers and met her often.
      The friend gave me and my partner at the time a week in Angela’s holiday cottage on Anglesey.

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    2. Wow, Mrs P, you did get about, didn't you!

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  29. Lovely evening here now.
    It's - Sunny, Hot and Humid.
    What a differrence from the torrential rain overnight + also this morning.
    What was becoming my lovely garden, is now looking so sad and ruined.
    The only positive thing at the moment is, is how well the runner beans are doing, but they are well supported with canes.


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  30. Thunderstorm in the early hours here with what looks about 2 1/2 drops of rain. Too late for my dwarf eucalyptus.

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  31. We had lovely rain here yesterday lunch time. Quite heavy but the soaking in kind. Apparently all my water butts are now full again thank goodness.

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  32. My son is here until tomorrow evening. He is so enthusiastic about each small addition and alteration since he last came that I get to see it all through his eyes instead of just the bits I still haven't done.
    It's quite wonderful and I can relax as I enjoy it.

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    1. That’s great Sarnia and continue to enjoy every moment of your sons visit ⭐️🌸☕️🌞🌺

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    2. Enjoy your time with your son. Sounds so good..Mx

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  33. Just got to say I’m much perkier today. Much less pain. Got up and dressed. Managed to walk downstairs and walk a few yards from front door through the gate to view my veg patch. Bit of a lounge on the sofa and then back upstairs to rest at 12ish. Mr P has had the job of ironing a super king size fitted sheet. Can’t tell you what he thought of it when he brought it up! Managed to fold it into a triangle somehow. Now he’s on the usual ironing. It’s hilarious. Need to tell him the grass needs cutting and some dead heading doing. And he thinks he’s off to the pub later. Haha. Not even mentioned about cooking anything for tea. Might see if I can get him a nice pinny off Amazon later. 😆

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  34. Ironing a super king cover poor Mr ptby 😂 best bet if you have a flat sheet is to use that against you and then just the duvet uncovered I’ve done that the duvet being white and in contained
    squares looks ok then later - back to normal. So glad you are feeling brighter 🌻

    ⭐️ Mr R out for first journey in his F1 chair today 🏎️🏁 it was great. Off to Garden Centre no1 at Frensham via the lanes and villages where we sat out for lunch then he wizzed around the garden and each time I looked for him he was way ahead! Then to Garden Centre no2 (Forest Lodge as was) more whizzing then sat out for our hot drinks. Feel quite euphoric nice to be together yet each able to potter independently. As Miriam stated only recently I also wish that many more people could take advantage of such items.

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    1. Lord R. must be having a wonderful time and a new lease of life.
      You will so fit, trying to keep up with him!!

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  35. Sorry ptby it was a SK flat sheet being ironed 🫢

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    1. I iron cotton flat sheets, duvet covers + pillow cases. Mine are only DB size but these take time, but so worth it...

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  37. Must confess that bedding doesn’t get ironed in the Nuts house, I know it feels nicer & looks better but ironing is one of my least favourite household chores along with most cleaning, in fact the only domestic task I enjoy is cooking. When I met MrNuts he didn’t have an iron (just an old ironing board left by the previous house owner) I won’t describe his bathroom or kitchen sink, suffice to say that he is quite laid back so he never criticises my domestic efforts!

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    1. 👏🏻 KP however at least you enjoy cooking there you have let Lanjan and myself down 😂

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    2. We have an ironing avalanche - it used to be a mountain until it collapsed!
      From time to time I have a fit of ironing. Then it sits forlornly on the spare bed or hangs on the over-crowded rail for days on end while I repeatedly ask the shoe-dwellers to kindly come and remove their "£$%^&*(*&^% stuff!

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  38. Lady R….so lovely to hear about his lordships outing. There’ll be no stopping him now.

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  39. I do like to iron all our bedding but our king size duvet cover defeated me today. I cannot stand for long now, so I tried sitting on a stool. It was hopeless, there was nowhere to drape the thing over the ironing board because my legs were in the way and I couldn’t get any pressure. The only things I managed were Mr A’s red spotty hankies and some tea towels! 😟

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    1. I know what you mean AP my neighbour irons sitting down I just do not know how she copes doing it this way, she like you also irons tea towels! Mostly my washing does not seem to crease much. I fold it into my wash basket shake into machine and fold as soon as out of machine if taking outside or shake out before drying (if necessary in the dryer part of the washer…
      Very interesting to read that Hugh Bethall sorted Mr A out all those years ago when such operations were (as you said) so very different from today, although of course they are still major surgery.

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    2. I have the same routine as Lady R.
      My mother worked in a laundry as a young girl - started work at 14 of course - and one of my most vivid memories is helping her to hang the washing on the line outside the communal laundry at the back of the estate that was my childhood home. I imagine I learned a lot from her but also learned even more when doing my three months in the laundry room at Farnborough Hospital when a cadet nurse, particularly about folding meticulously and smoothing.
      I put everything into the washing machine separately and remove it in the same way. A rough shake as it comes out of the machine then a good shake before going on the line. Then everything is folded meticulously as it comes off the line and smoothed by hand before being aired. Very little ironed at all.
      This is the first home that I have not had a heated airing cupboard so I am using the radiators when the heating is on.
      In this current hot weather I’ve been airing the dried washing in the sun.
      I do admit to being obsessive about washing though, and for two periods of my life I’ve earned my pocket money by taking in washing.

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  40. Ironing is very minimalist in our house, we only do what is absolutely necessary.
    Yesterday a fledgling sparrow got itself trapped in the conservatory. Thankfully we managed to shut the door into the house before it flew inside and we eventually managed to corner it. We put it on the bird table whereupon it flew into a shrub, hopefully the parent found it. It's been a really good year for sparrows, they are eating us out of house and home at the moment! Sadly, I can't say the same for starlings, they have been very few and far between this year.

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  41. ARCHERPHILE

    This is for you.

    I have been to my Strength and Balance class today.
    I asked for a copy of the exercises we do so that I might pass it on to you.
    It is likely that these are the exercises, or some of them, that Mr A does at his class.
    These are used throughout the western world for older people to enable them to keep as much strength and balance as possible as they age.
    I’ve looked it up online and the booklet there is exactly as mine in front of me right now.
    I hope you find it useful.

    Just google - OTAGO Strength and Balance
    It comes up as a Home Exercise Programme

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  42. Thank you so much Mrs P. That is very thoughtful of you.
    I shall look it up straight away and print myself a copy.
    I’ll have a go and see what I can manage tomorrow.
    Also tomorrow I shall be going out for the first time since hospital and try doing a shop at Sainsburys (with Mr A). I can always sit down on one of their chairs if necessary.

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    1. Wow AP - your S/bury's has chairs? Mine only had about 3 for the Lloyds Pharmacy, but sadly these are now long gone.

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    2. I took my neighbour to our local Sainsbury this afternoon and of course then did some shopping myself, when finished I paid up and then sat down in a bucket type “armchair” and read the paper for 10 mins until she had completed her purchases. The chair was placed behind the tills and I did only see one but it was appreciated. Until recent times the store boasted a tearoom but gone now, guess paying units will be the next step…..

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    3. Only a couple of bog standard plastic chairs behind the tills but they are often in use.
      Our store’s cafe closed during Covid but has recently reopened as a Starbucks. Never been in there because I have no idea about all these fancy coffees and wouldn’t know what to order!

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  43. I so feel for the families of those who set of on an adventure, to view the wreck of The Titanic.
    It seems that this Liner has now perhaps, claimed more lives...
    It gives me the shivers!




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    1. To add. In my opinion only, the site of the wreck should now be left alone, It is after all a grave site of the very many, who couldn't escape and so didn't survive..
      Sorry, I gave strong feelings about this.

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    2. We totally agree Miriam. Surely enough is known about Titanic by now and the wreck should be completely out of bounds and designated as a sea grave. It somehow seems ghoulish to keep prodding and poking into the wreck where so many died. And now 3 more are added to that terrible total.

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    3. My view entirely I have always felt intrigued by the ship but guilty at the same time for viewing many peoples tragic resting place 🙏🏼

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  44. I couldn’t believe anyone could be so stupid to pay that much money to go that deep in a home made submarine. Warning bells surely when signing a disclaimer which stated it may cause death! I do feel for their families and agree the Titanic should be left alone.

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    1. I have great sympathy for the bereaved families of these five people.
      Wives and children who quite possibly did not want their loved ones to go on such an ‘ adventure ‘
      I don’t have any sympathy for such foolish people themselves, and the money spent on attempting to save them from what seems to me to be unbelievable stupidity because they can afford to be so stupid, would be better used to saving lives of the refugees attempting something similar by crowding into small inadequate boats.

      Delete
    2. Very strangely our son tells us he knew Hamish Harding slightly when they were living in Dubai, where Harding was also living at the time. His son was in the same Scout pack as our grandson James and Harding turned up to collect him occasionally.
      Apparently the son was a typical entitled rich kid who wanted everything his way and became very unpleasant and disruptive, so much so that James ( and some other boys) decided to give up Scouts. No one seemed able, or dared, to discipline the boy for fear of annoying the father who indulged his sons greatly.
      However, he has lost his Dad which must be terrible for him and his brother. Perhaps it also teaches a lesson that money can’t buy everything, even your own safety.

      Delete
    3. Interesting AP and also very true!

      Delete
    4. Mrs. P. You have summed up my thoughts, in a far better way than I could.
      I do feel for the families, but they also must have known the risks involved.
      This has been the news all day.
      The tragedy of the estimated 500 migrants lost in the boat disaster in Greece, and all those killed in the India train collision - was basically passed by after a day or two.
      To me it appears that the News Channels, concentrate as much on the differing persons involved.
      I have spoken my individual thoughts - 🫨

      Delete
    5. Sorry, but it was the loss of nearly 700 lives, against just five..
      I've said my piece.

      Delete
    6. There was a very telling and appropriate cartoon bt Peter Brooke in the Times yesterday which I wishI could reproduce her (but would probably be in breach of copyright)
      It is split into two halves; on one side the vastly overcrowded boat off Greece, in terrible condition with migrants raising their arms in appeal. The other shows the Titan submersible lost in the Atlantic. The heading : “ All out International effort to save lives”

      It said it all for me.

      Delete
    7. AP. I'm glad I'm not alone as to my feelings..even if it was a Times Cartoon...😔

      Delete
    8. One life lost is a tragedy. A hundred lives is a statistic : (

      And, of course, one vessel was filled with a handful of rich people whereas the other was full of a bunch of poor people our government tells us would be the ruination of our proud and prosperous nation.

      Delete
  45. I did a big S/bury's shop this morning and I really looked around
    - there was definitely not a seat anywhere!
    It was showery when I was out, so took a light rain jacket with me. As it was far too warm to put it on, I did the "Miss Wet T-Shirt" look..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ooh Miriam you will be head hunted for Love Island at this rate 😳

      I think you should ask to see the Manager of your Sainsbury’s branch and inform them that in Hampshire stores have seating of some kind. Mind it could just be because we are an older people area 😂🤣😂 tongue in cheek of course!

      Delete
    2. My Sainsbury's is in an urban area so lots of houses around. Opposite the store, there is a very lovely complex of retirement flats which has a traffic crossing outside, direct onto a walkway, which is straight to the main door.
      I am sure many of the residents who shop instore, would love a short rest before going back home.
      I will definitely be getting in touch with the manager about this...
      A simple thing, but might make a difference for some. I'm on a mission 😆

      Delete
    3. To add, that could be me in the future 😀

      Delete
    4. Good for you Miriam and good luck with your mission 🤗

      Delete
  46. We have two benches each holding three individual seats at my local branch.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Glad I mentioned the chair now.
    Well, I went and did the shop with Mr A and I was so wobbly I had to cling on to the trolly all the way round. It was a big shop because it was the first we have done since coming back from holiday.
    I didn’t get breathless (good) but was really spaced out and couldn’t concentrate (bad)
    Used the scan and pack method so check out should have been quick and easy but we had to have a whole trolly check and wait for ages for an assistant to come and do it. I was desperate to sit down, hanging over the trolly so I looked for the chair…..but it had gone! Just when it was most needed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Bad luck as to the re-scan. It is such a carfuffle and as you have said, takes time so it is not quickly out.
      Luckily, I haven't had one for a while.

      Delete
  48. AP had you considered using one of their basket scooters until you feel more secure, or do you

    ReplyDelete
  49. ....adhere to the 'practice makes perfect' school of thought?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hadn’t thought of that Sarnia. Might be a good idea. I’ll see now I get on next week

      Delete
    2. Archerphile did you ask for a chair?

      Delete
    3. No, must admit I didn’t. Just wanted the trolly check done and to escape. At least I had the trolly to hang on to. There were so many trollies queuing behind us, waiting for a check that I didn’t want to hold things up any longer or cause a scene.

      Delete
    4. ✔️ just so sorry you got a full trolley check on an exceptionally large shop - Sod’s Law 😡

      Delete
  50. Archerphile…..my mother used to use Sainsbury’s trolley scooter when I used to take her. I think you have to ring ahead to book one. You certainly did when we used to go.

    ReplyDelete
  51. AP The use of a supermarket scooter is a good idea, but....
    going around the supermarket, even if hanging onto the trolley, is keeping you mobile and excercising. Just do more often and smaller shops from now on, so not as long in time.
    When my late father started to have mobility issues, he so wanted a rise + recline electric chair. This was talked about with the OH whilst he was still in hospital, who said it was not a good idea for him personally.
    This was because getting up out of his normal recliner chair, helped to stretch his legs and back and his posture.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Must add - R. Chicken in oven and whilst it's cooking, I am watching Glastonbury..and absolutely loving it!!
    The "get up + go" chick in me, is re- appearing. 🎤🎶🎸

    ReplyDelete
  53. Lucky you, Miriam. I'm afraid my inner 'get-up-and-go chick' seems to have got up and gone. Here's hoping it's only a temporary state of affairs!

    ReplyDelete
  54. Oh, the power of music uniting people. This might sound like a strange thing to write, but any persons who have sung in choirs, played in orchestras, or just sung in a Christmas Carol Concert, not forgetting playing the church organ, might just understand this.
    My Glastonbury viewing last night, showed a part set, by a young 28yr British instrumentalist, on his Glasto debut, with the song Somebody To Love (Queen) with the artiste playing the piano + singing it.
    It was amazing that the crowds of thousands in front of the stage, knew the words and joined in, be it very quietly to begin with.
    At the end, the crowd was basically a huge mass choir, singing their hearts out and being conducted by this young performer.
    What I found so amazing was as the camera's panned around at the conclusion, there was so much happiness and a look of pure joy and delight, showing on all the very many faces.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Not strange at all, Miriam. What saddens me is the fact that since the burgeoning of the recording industry, music by and large has become something of a spectator sport; opportunities such as this for recreational singing are mostly a thing of the past. It's so good for mental wellbeing, too.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So much so that Vicky McClure, the actress from Line of Duty, has just been awarded an OBE for the work she did in setting up an Alzheimer’s Choir. Just a short series on TV, it has now spawned other choirs for Alzheimer’s patients across the country.

      Delete
    2. Choirs every where now.
      As well as traditional Choral Societies many localities have ‘ just sing’ groups and of course there is the Natural voice movement in many places too. Unfortunately for me I would have to travel to Taunton to sing with a NVM group, but I’m thinking of approaching someone to come further this way to start a singing group.

      Delete
  56. Yes, I know, that's fine for adults who are willing to make the effort. Music teachers are still struggling with pupils whose main engagement with music is as 'consumers' plugged in to their i phones and are reluctant to respond to aural tests because they don't sound like Beyonce.

    ReplyDelete
  57. The Bristol University Madrigal Ensemble of about 16 young singers visited here again a couple of weeks ago, and they sang as part of the Sunday service at the Church, and then on a weekday evening gave a concert at the Chapel together with Tintagel male voice choir. This is the 41st year they have been touring Cornwall in their summer break, with students coming and going as they complete their degrees. The father of one of the young women singers here this time sang with the choir in the 1990's. My guess is that if you have musical parents and access to musical instruments at a young age then you are probably going to become a musician rather than simply wear iPhones. Not always though. My dad used to say his hopeful mum sent him to piano lessons for 9 years and he reckoned he still couldn't play a note after all that time. He liked listening to our mum playing though.
    The unaccompanied harmonies of the Madrigal Ensemble are really good and the enthusiasm of the young singers is inspiring. Very versatile too, and if any sea shanty singing is going on they join in that as well. When not singing they hit the beaches.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Quite so, Janice. It's the ones who don't have musical parents whose musical potential is discouraged and crushed.

    ReplyDelete
  59. Very sad to report that my dear little 23 year old Micra failed its MOT this morning.
    It needs a lot of welding and undersealing and other things, cost of which will be around £500, more than the car is actually worth.
    We discussed long and hard what to do. But decided that while we stil live here it is essential to have back up transport. Don’t know what we should have done without it when Mr A’s car was off the road for 3 months earlier this year.
    And I really don’t feel up to trailing round garages looking for a replacement and test driving strange cars. Actually have not driven since coming out of hospital and don’t feel up to it yet.
    So the Micra lives on for an another year, God Bless it!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I can understand how you feel, while you cold scrap the Micra & buy another banger for say £1000, there is hassle involved in that process & the replacement could then die at short notice….. also completely get not wanting to go down to one car when living in a rural area. MrNuts and I have been discussing going down to one car as we rarely both need to go out separately, and once he’s fully retired it will be even rarer, but that would mean allowing for a car rental if if the single car had to go off the road for a prolonged period.

      Delete
    2. I fully understand your predicament ARCHERPHILE and sympathise.
      When my Micro was written off by my insurers I bought it back at £300 and continued to have it for at least another five years.
      I think you have made the right decision.
      When I finally had to abandon mine I bought another car which I had huge problems with until I abandoned that and was able to buy a Toyota Yaris which I’ve now had for over five years, but this has never been for me a comfortable replacement for my lovely Micra, which I still mourn for.
      Good luck with the work which needs to be done, and I hope your lovely Micra continues for several more years.

      Delete
    3. Very sensible on both your counts and better the vehicle that you know AP and all things considered I don’t think £500 to be back on the road for even another year is a bad investmen🤗
      The main thing is no matter how many cars you own all keep driving regularly. My (ever moving house) sister at one point after a self inflicted driving incident which took her confidence for a long time happily left the driving to her younger husband who as many men was always the main driver anyway. However since their move from the IOW to Gainsborough my B. In law has had health issues and sister has often had to take over all the driving to places unknown to her and in all types or weather etc and vows never to let her driving lapse again. Currently B.I.L is having problems which I won’t go into right now as this post is long enough but suffice to say we all have 🤞🏼

      Delete
  60. We discussed going down to one car when we moved 2 years ago. I wasn’t driving with the one eye situation, but we have a large estate car that the dogs go in and a golf for when we travel without dogs that is more economical. Before hip op there were quite a few occasions when we were both out with both cars. I can’t actually see a point when we’d go down to one car now. You get so used to having transport whenever you want rather than checking each others schedules.

    On a lighter note…just watched the latest “Grand Tour” episode on Prime. Just brilliant. Really cheered me up. A road trip from Gdańsk to Lake Bled. Stunning scenery. Worth watching just for that.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How is the convalescence going, catching up on TV reassures me that you aren’t overdoing things too much, I hope so anyway!

      Delete
    2. And keeping up the exercises PybY.? Hope recovery is going well and you are able to do a little more and go a little further each day.

      Delete
  61. AP I also so agree with your decision. The works on your micra will be done, and when you are soon back driving you will feel happy to be in a car, that you know and love so well.

    ReplyDelete
  62. I received a letter from my tv/radio guide recently. It was as expected - Due to costs, the cost of your annual subscription is being increased in Jan. 2024.
    Delighted to read that it is now £79.99 for 52 weeks. I got a good deal when I subscribed, and it is lovely to know that the terms of that original subscription deal, is being upheld and continuing.
    It works out at £1.54 a week!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. So much cheaper than the Radio Times! We cancelled our RT subscription last year saying it was getting too expensive. A couple of months later they wrote and offered a years subscription at a greatly lowered price, lower than we had been charged before.
      Might try that ploy again this Autumn!

      Delete
    2. A gripe of mine at the moment is, the interest rate has increased several times now, so why isn't the interset rate on savings accouhts, being increased accordingly.

      Delete
    3. Because then the banks wouldn’t make so money!! Their profits are going up nicely at the moment😠

      Delete
    4. This comment has been removed by the author.

      Delete
  63. KP and Archerphile.
    Recovery going ok. Doing exercises and pottering about up and down the garden. I tie a bucket to my frame and go dead heading. Been down town a couple of times….car to cafe, Mabel into the vets. Nothing excessive.
    Went round sainsburys yesterday in one of their mobility scooters. It was like being in an old fashioned bumper car!
    Physio said yesterday there wouldn’t be much more improvement now until 6 week check up.

    ReplyDelete
  64. The interest rates on serval Banks' easy access accounts have been rising steadily .
    Most folk wouldn't put money into a fixed rate Bond now although that was the thing to do a few years ago
    There are some compatively good deals out there at the moment

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And the interest rate increase has definitely been reflected in increased and higher Premium Bond Prizes.

      Delete
  65. 💔 🕯️ Today we say goodbye to our dear friend Ev and thoughts will be so much with Katy and all family members. Ev’s presence is already much missed on both our blogs but her informed comments, empathy and artistic skills will ensure she will never be forgotten🙏🏼

    KP‼️ Would you be able to post this on TA blog as well please.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have copied LadyR’s post along with the funeral details onto the TA blog. The details & link are also at the top of this blog (about 3rd post) if anyone wants to join

      Delete
    2. Thank you for the reminders. I can't attend virtually but I will be thinking of Katy and the family. I hope it is a wonderful service that does Ev proud. 💔🙏🌺

      Delete
    3. I am hoping to be able to make the connection and to be there for Ev if not in person.

      Yesterday was also the funeral of my ex husbands cousins wife, which both my daughters were due to attend, also in Hampshire.
      We were all young together and she and I were close for a number of years.

      Delete
  66. As a floral tribute to Ev I changed my photo to one of our Dorothy Perkins rambling rose.
    Scrambling up a Weeping Birch with a Wisteria ( flowers now over). The rose is the best it has ever been this year and doesn’t seem to have been affected by adverse weather.
    RIP Ev.

    ReplyDelete
  67. My son has been trying to connect for me but it says password is incorrect, so may not be able to get through. Any one else having this problem?

    ReplyDelete
  68. My thoughts are with Katy today, I miss Ev too.
    I tried several times to access the service but couldn't make it work.
    R.I.P.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My son worked out eventually it needed a capital N, and I then managed to join for the last half of the service.

      Delete
    2. Yes me too having a problem but eventually realising that the final N was a capital.
      Sorry that you were unable to join Mistral as well as any others.

      Delete
    3. I did post the correct password on the other blog as soon as my son worked out what the mistake was, but too late for the beginning of the service.

      Delete
  69. Well, that was a privilege to be ‘Present’ at Ev’s funeral and hear all the lovely tributes made to her.
    She certainly seemed to be much loved and admired by all her family and friends.
    The placing of flowers on the coffin by everyone at the end of the service was a lovely idea and I apologise to Eve that my flowers were just a photo and not placed in person.
    We miss you Ev and thank you Kate for allowing us to be present to day goodbye.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Some two decades ago a much loved but troubled friend committed suicide. She had felt the need to hide her sexuality from anyone outside of the Lesbian community.
      The friends that organised her funeral asked that each attendee should bring one single flower that they felt represented her. The chapel was packed with close on two hundred women and two men who were her work colleagues.
      The two men told us that they had always known that Julie was a Lesbian but since she chose not to tell, they respected her silent wishes.
      The flowers on that coffin were all so very different, reflecting how each of us felt about her, as as we all filed up to the coffin I found it very moving.

      I hope to die in the month of my birth and to be laid in my shroud surrounded by cow parsley, and the only flowers that I would like, to be wild flowers from the hedgerows.

      Delete
  70. It is possible to watch it again so I am now going to watch the first part which I missed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That’s good…. Thank you for telling us Janice.
      MISTRAL - hope you are able to access it now, albeit a little later.

      Delete
  71. I liked your idea Archerfile of changing your photo to flowers for Ev. I have changed mine to some Arum lilies growing in the garden.

    ReplyDelete
  72. Mrs P and Janice, yes, thanks for your help, I did manage as soon as I read your posts. I was a bit hesitant to say that I couldn't manage because I didn't want to seem disrespetful, but Ev has been on my mind a lot and I felt it was important to partake, even from such a distance, so thank you again.
    I have planned my own funeral several times, often change the music, but recently have decided to withdraw from any sort of formal service, I like the thought of cowparsley and wild flowers Mrs. P.

    ReplyDelete
  73. How lovely to read that so many of you joined in with EV's funeral service.
    I did not join with you and the congregtation, for my own reasons. I did though think about EV, Katy and dogs at 12.00pm.

    As to "green" funerals, I saw a lovely 'photo from a florist showing a wicker casket with wild flowers she had woven into the rim and lid. To add she had permission from the family to share this.
    That's for me!


    ReplyDelete
  74. Off to water the garden, yet again! So many plants are wilting and need reviving badly.
    This will detract me, from other sad thoughts I am having..
    Take Care All. 🤗😍😀

    ReplyDelete
  75. Having posted in the early hours that today we were saying goodbye to dear Ev I was not able to watch live but obviously would like to now. I am getting nowhere
    I entered the https info and even entered the long number but no joy to be able to enter a password what am I doing wrong??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Check the password on our other blog, but make sure you use a Capital N in the password, and not a lower case n that was originally given

      Delete
    2. Lady R, the password is case sensitive and there was a typo in the original message, but Janice and Mrs. P. sorted it out.
      Once you have got to the https site, you need to enter the short password which is
      2tQ5d2UNz
      you do not need the other long bit at all.
      I hope you manage, I thought the tributes were really lovely.

      Delete
    3. Mistral
      Is that a dog or a rabbit trying to enter or exit a compost bin ?
      I’m intrigued !

      I do hope Lady R has managed to find her digital way to Evs funeral.

      Delete
  76. Oooooooh !
    I’ve just got Wordle in my second word and in about fifteen seconds.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Mrs P. I got wordle in 3. Really annoying cos I would have got it in 2 but changed my mind at the last minute.

    ReplyDelete
  78. No luck so far 😒 I enter into Google:-

    https://Vimeo.com/event/3485008 which then shows up no matches but I can see another entry there that shows the above with of course a different number and I never get to anywhere that asks for a password which due to the blog I know requires the n to be a capital N. I still hope to be able with more help to view Ev’s farewell but I thought of her, Katy and family constantly yesterday.
    Still a big adjustment for Katy without her dear mum thank goodness she has their much loved dogs to help her heal.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I will ask my son when he visits just in case he might have any ideas.

      Delete
    2. Lady R, I;m not great at tech, but I highlighted the https link on the email by pressing on the left hand side of my mouse and scolling over the address, this highlights the address in blue. Then press the right hand side of the mouse, which brings up a box of instructions. Go to the one which says 'Search Google for....(should have the highlit address here). If you click there, it should take you to the Vimeo site where it says This event is private. There is a box to type in the AMENDED password as detailed earlier on the blog.
      I hope this helps, sorry if you already did all this, it's the best I can do!

      Delete
    3. Thank you Mistral I am on iPad but will try again later, so kind of you to try and help.

      Delete
  79. Mrs P,
    The photo is of Flump my Jack Russell, taken 2 or 3 years ago. Sho loves helping me get the compost out! Sadly she is now 14 and suddenly her back legs are giving out, she can't limbo any more, when I was messing about composting the other day, she looked and gave a Lynda Snell sniff before moving on....

    ReplyDelete
  80. She's 15 kg, would have been a HUGE rabbit!

    ReplyDelete
  81. I have just a watched a Place in the Sun, based on Lucca in North Tuscany. I know Lucca really well, (been many times) as was the place of a property shown, in a town called Barga.
    I had a great friend, who I met in Italian language evening classes. She and Hubbie moved to Barga, and this was where I celebrated my 50th birthday and visited a few times.
    It also, though, reminded me of EV, as this was not far from The Mill where she spent many a wonderful time, on her painting holidays.
    She gave the details as to it, as also does Italian speaking holidays in the same place, but then the Pandemic happened!
    Plans were shelved and still are.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shelved plans can be reinstated Miriam
      Hope you get there one day.

      Thank you Mistral - yes I thought it was a dog, but it could have been a very large bunny !

      Delete
    2. My two year out of date passport, needs to be renewned first!

      Delete
    3. ...plus also need to get my "bus pass", still not done!

      Delete
  82. Any-one listening to the latest Charles Parish episodes?

    ReplyDelete

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