THIS POST IS CLOSED
"longer off topic comments" - Episode 12 Life Outside Ambridge

Comments

  1. Good morning! I opened this new post because the last was so popular.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Ruthy ,what a delightful photograph.
    Is it of your home?
    The previous one of your decking reminded me of "Anne of Green Gables".

    ReplyDelete
  3. just going back to the film about a day in the life of Waterloo station - it's "Terminus", directed by John Schlesinger : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fx_lUCgC-Jo
    came across it again on a TV channel "Talking Pictures" which regularly shows shorts - including "Night Mail" - glimpses of a bygone age.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I will look to see if the Waterloo clock that some of the others have been talking of meeting under is in it. I don't know London at all.

      Delete
    2. Janice, if you google Waterloo Station or Clock you will see many many images of the clock. It is very large.
      I have memories of standing under it as a toddler, with my mum and my sister in the pushchair, waiting for my dad.

      One of my very earliest memories are of being in my pushchair with my mum running across the bridge between Waterloo East and Waterloo.
      It happened often because we lived in South London and the trains from south of the Thames come into Waterloo East.
      That bridge was a tunnel and made of metal, the floor being sheets of metal riveted together so the wheels of the pushchair, in those days very hard rubber, made a rhythmic sound going fast across the sheets of metal.
      It is a sound I will never forget, and it returns to me every time I cross that divide between North and South.
      That bridge was rebuilt sometime in the eighties I think.

      Delete
    3. Done. That is an amazing clock.

      Delete
  4. Ruthy, I hope you and your partner had a relaxing day.
    My friends in Hurly are also embarrassed about Trump. Over here we have a Trump minor, another buffoon called Boris, the Foreign Secretary without diplomatic skills. He thinks he is clever because he can swear in Latin, he is just as embarrassing as Trump. They both share the same colour of hair, although Boris's is natural.
    A purple chair, they seem to come in all colours.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Lanjan: I was very interested to read your post, in the now closed blog, about your father having served in WW1. My father was in the Royal Navy throughout the first war and was serving in HMS Agememnon in the Mediterranean and at Gallipoli. (A fact he never ceased talking about throughout his life, unlike many men who served, apparently). My parents married in 1920 when Dad was finally discharged from the navy’s Haslar Hospital, Portsmouth, after treatment for injuries sustained in the war. Like you, people find it difficult to believe I had parents alive back then, but my Dad was 50 and my Mum 45 (and my brother was aged 24) when I came along!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Hope you had a nice July 4th Ruthy. My daughter works with someone who married an American, and they always have an evening barbecue party on the 4th.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Archerphile and LJ - yes it's interesting that you had older parents whose memories gave you insight into earlier times. We are all of a similar age, but although my father was older, thirty five when he married, my mum twenty four, not as old as yours, his memories of WW1 were of being ten, eleven years old, in London. He was born in 1905.

    He never mentioned this, but my cousin, twenty when I was born, tells me that he would escape the terror by spending days going round and round on the Central line. He was full of tales but never that one. Perhaps ashamed of his fear and anxiety as a child. Later he was very involved with horses working at twelve by escorting the horses up Grays In Road from Fleet Street with the newspapers to Euston for rail travel out to the provinces and, presumably north.
    His father was in the cavalry and I have a photo of him on horseback in uniform in France. I also have a picture that grandfather brought home from France for grandma, of Mimosa and Carnations.
    Later my father was in the cavalry himself.
    No wonder that we always went to the stables after the Royal Tournament !

    So, although we are similar in age, our parents were not, but between us we straddle in memory from mid/ late Victoria through Edwardian and on until we exit somewhere around mid 21st c , presumably and sadly to post Elizabeth Regina 11

    ReplyDelete
  8. Stasia, I don't think there are any Americans on this side of the pond who are not embarrassed by the elevation of Trump.
    Those who would not be embarrassed are not the type to travel outside of the U S of A.

    ReplyDelete
  9. MrsP - I love that you shared with us your earliest memory of Waterloo Station of the sound and feel of the pushchair. Lovely! My very first memory was getting my first haircut! I just remembering my screaming through the entire ordeal.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Sharon if you are reading the blog - we binge-watched all 3 episodes of Very English Scandal and must say we enjoyed it very much. All the actors were well cast and of course I enjoyed Hugh Grant and Ben Whishaw immensely in anything they are in. Very different roles they had from Paddington 2.

    ReplyDelete
  11. I just added a comment on the About BBC Blog - BBC iPlayer Highlights 7-13 July 2018, and of course it went straight to moderation. Did notice this film Made in Dagenham has anyone seen this? Sally Hawkins appears in the photo and I love her acting.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Ruthy, I'm pleased you enjoyed the ' scandel'.
    I watched it with a ' weathered ' eye, part bemused but very much enjoyed.
    It was produced with verve and wit I felt.
    But bemusement as one who watched the live events with a continuing sense of 'whatever will come next ? ', at the time.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Mrs P : one of my favourite outings, both as a child and an adult, was going to the Royal Tournament at Earls Court. I first went with my school, aged about 10 or 11 but continued going regularly until they eventually came to an end.
    My favourite item was the Royal Naval field gun display and I always had to cheer for Devonport as that’s where Dad was usually stationed when in the Navy.
    One particularly exciting visit, during the 1970’s, happened to be on the night the Queen was in the Royal Box. As the show was finishing we raced around to the exit we knew she would be using and stood right behind the velvet rope. She walked past me, only a few inches away and was stopping and chatting to the crowd. I remember being amazed at how short she was (she looked much taller on TV) and how much make-up she was wearing; thick foundation and powder and very bright lipstick - I think I was a little bit shocked! Prince Philip was very jolly and joked with everyone.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Archerphile, I've recently had a long conversation with My son in law about
      'going to the Royal Tournament every year ' and we shared the thrill of the field gun display and the Kings Troop display. The latter is, for me, THE most exciting event ever. Never to be surpassed. It was a surprising conversation since I had no idea previously that this had been part of my son in laws upbringing.
      It came about because we were watching the Trooping together on television.

      I saw the Queen often in the sixties, my husband was on the ' rota ' so we were frequently at Polo at Smiths Lawn on Sunday afternoons. I remember her green eyes.
      Elizabeth Taylor was not the only Elizabeth with green eyes.
      I also remember Ann as a very stroppy ten year old. Very different to the woman when older, though I believe she can still ' strop ' !

      Incidentally our local paper has a notice about our new local Royal Stroudie whose name is to be Lena Elizabeth, pronounced Lay-na. She was born in Stroud Maternity Hospital.

      Delete
    2. I visited Smith's lawn once when I was a Girl Guide camping in Windsor Great Park.
      We were told we must not take photographs.
      I won't say whether we did or not.
      I have always had a lot of time for Princess Anne.
      I believe she is one of if not THE most hard working of the Royals.
      A no nonsense woman.


      Delete
    3. LJ, that ruling, no photographs to be taken is as far as I know, still in place.
      As I said, my husband, and me I suppose, were on the ' rota' i.e. Press coverage allowed.

      Delete
  14. MrsP. 12.22pm. I agree, coincidentally I was in Cheltenham this morning and a man was standing outside a shop with a trolley selling toilet rolls/paper with Trumps face on each piece of paper. Wonder what the Americans would have made of him, had he been plying his trade in the US.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Parsley16,I have just watched "Just another Day" about Waterloo Station on You tube.
    It was made in 1983 .
    The station hasn't half changed since then but the clock is still there of course.
    In 1983 apparently the Station Manager walked around in a bowler hat.
    I don't know if that was the film I remember but a young woman was seen waiting and waiting and waiting under the clock.
    Oddly enough she didn't look perturbed.

    ReplyDelete
  16. HG. I'm so pleased you are still with us and looking in occasionally. I admire anyone who can dance as my feet seem unable to coordinate with other even though I went to ballet classes and spent my childhood and adolescence doing Irish dancing.
    Thank you again for offering to help, when I eventually decide to the place of my birth.
    Keep dancing👗💃

    ReplyDelete
  17. Ruthy.Well Done.
    This blog is becoming a full-time "job", for you.
    This just shows, though, how much this site is liked, and appreciated, by so many.
    It is nice to have an off topic chatter, with those who just appreciate each others input, thoughts and view on life, be it past, present or future.
    I am sure that just one "blog" a week is OK, - as you did before. It is fun scrolling back, reading others posts, and then adding to them.
    Thanks for this calm and tranquil place.

    ReplyDelete
  18. This is a link to Archerphile/LJ and others.
    My grandfather was a regular Naval Captain at the outbreak of WW2. He was the captain on the HM King George which was very close, when the Bismark sunk HM The Hood, and then went in pursuit. He was changed to Naval Intelligence, spending many weeks closeted on the Sussex Downs. He was involved in a very secret mission, for which he was awarded an OBE. This was made into the film, "The Man Who Never Was". He always kept his role a secret, and to this day, in spite of a lot of research, it is still not known.
    I am the proud owner of a Naval Dress Crown, which is a marquisite brooch given to Naval Officers Wives to be worn at formal "mess" events. Mine dates from 1927, it is worthless, but very sentimental (esp as this was my gread-grand mothers, who died of TB when my Mum was only about 3 months old).

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Should read my maternal Grandmother's brooch, not my "great-grandmother's" as posted. She passed away in 1929, at the young age of 23.

      Delete
    2. Mum was brought up my her paternal grand-mother, whose husband was a police officer. That's another story!

      Delete
    3. Lovely to hear about another Naval father, from a different war this time! Because of my father’s constant reminiscences about his time in the navy I grew up determined to join the WRNS. But when it came to applying my father refused to give permission for various reasons and I have always regretted not being allowed to join.

      Delete
    4. I did join the WRNS and my father wasn’t keen either but I was within 6 months of my 21st birthday and said I would then join not needing his permission. Her did relent but said I would regret it and would be picking up paper on the parade ground. I said times had changed since his time in the Army during the war. I never told him that indeed we had a workshop week during which time I had to pick up litter on the parade ground! Of course as soon as I was 21 the age of majority went down to 18! I never did regret joining and in the event did 6 years and left on getting married as my stepdaughters came to live with us so quickly became a full time mum which was the hardest job ever!

      Delete
    5. That should be a workship week! Auto correction again!

      Delete
    6. I am so pleased to read Ev and Archerphiles posts.
      I have always resented my father refusing to allow me to go into the services.
      He prevented my mother too, by marrying her after ' rescuing' her from her family.
      By the time I was 21 and ' free' it was too late.
      An abortion and then a breakdown were already behind me.
      Life took over.
      But it is helpful, even at this late stage to know that I was not alone in such a situation.

      Delete
  19. I am off into Chester City tomorrow. I will try and venture to "The Cheese Shop", to see if Sage Derby is still available. I can't promise though. 🧀

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It depends on the bus times, what route I decide to walk, and how much "free" time I have before my booked appointment.

      Delete
  20. So interesting to read today’s posts and so many resonate with me.
    Ruthy, I enjoyed Made in Dagenham a few years ago. Sally Hawkins was excellent and the story very interesting. If you found A Very English Affair compelling I think you will like it.
    Mrs P, I know that bridge very well and will think of you next time I use it. I remember having to go out of Waterloo in the 80s via a back entrance and a crossing to get to the bridge. Now it goes across the top between stations although there is a stair case to the street.
    I have enjoyed the family history posts as I am exploring my family history at the moment and will be visiting the National Archives in a couple of days to do some more.
    My parents and grandparents were older than those of my peers so my grandmother was a Victorian when others my age have great grandparents from that time. Both maternal grandparents lost a brother in WW1 and my father saw his father admitted to a mental hospital as was then for what would now be called post traumatic stress disorder. He spent the rest of his life there - more than 40 years.

    ReplyDelete
  21. That's a really interesting story Mirium.
    Was your father ' the man ' in the Man who never was !
    I remember the phrase but not the content of the story.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The man was a dead tramp who they dressed up and attached a briefcase with false secret plans. He was planted in the sea for the enemy to find. There were so many ploys to put them on the wrong track. We must have had some very clever and devious people on our side!

      Delete
    2. Googled it and apparently the allies were just about to invade Sicilybut the man’s docs were a diversion saying that they were going to invade Greece, The body was released from a submarine where strong currents would take it to a beach where a spy from the other side was known to operate. The documents were returned to London apparently unopened but it later proved they had been expertly resealed. They made s film of it in the 1950’s which I remember seeing. Fascinating stuff!

      Delete
  22. Seasider, if you are going to Kew tomorrow take a capacious bag and plenty of money.
    The Archives have the most interesting bookshop and they have a sale on at the moment.
    I get their emails and I quickly deleted the one I got a few days ago, because I knew I would be tempted by the discounted prices.
    The last time I went I came away with loads of books.

    You have been warned !

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh dear I have piles of unread books and Mr S is not pleased by my hoarding tendencies. So warning is the word indeed!

      Delete
    2. I meant to buy Nella Last’s diaries the only time I visited previously and found a dirty second hand copy elsewhere so if they still have it...I have watched the late Victoria Wood’s dramatisation several times.

      Delete
    3. Seasider, a brilliant piece of writing and acting by the greatly lamented Victoria Wood. I made a recording of the TV play last time it was on and shall keep it on my recorder for ever ( along with The Go Between,1970s version with Alan Bates and Julie Christie, my other favourite TV play)

      Delete
    4. Ah, I deleted it from mine then regretted it. I might just have to redress that next time it is on. I wanted to see Alan Bates recently - the name escapes me but the film was about a group of children finding a man in a barn and thinking they had found Jesus. Really funny and charming. Set in Yorkshire if I remember correctly. I missed it because of a certain football tournament Mr S is rather keen on but I am sure it will be shown again and I have seen it before.

      Delete
    5. It was “Whistle down theWind” with Hayley Mills and I believe her mother wrote the story.

      Delete
    6. Ev, thanks for that - interesting about the story writer.

      Delete
    7. Yon side o’t Pennines then. 😉

      Delete
  23. I remember seeing Whistle Down the Wind as a child and I loved it. Gorgeous Alan Bates too, although I was too young to appreciate that then! I remember being on Waterloo Station and the steam trains coming in and smelling the smoke and how it would fill the platforms. I've always loved the film 'Brief Encounter', watched it many times. The clothes, way of life, drab surroundings so evocative of a different time.

    ReplyDelete
  24. BLOG
    Well I have had my final letter from the BBC.
    They have told me that they will not respond to any more letters from me.
    What tickled me that although I have addressed my letters as Dear Sir and Dear Madam.they address me as "Janet"
    So it looks as if it is the end of the road.
    I did say that I would go to Ofcom but in truth I don't now see the point.
    I do prefer Ruthy's blog anyway.
    I have not heard back from my MP yet.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How patronising they are! Thank you, Lan Jan for all your efforts . Agree Ruthy’s blog is great and it has at least weeded out some of the less desirables but hope we will be joined by more of our old friends in due course. I don’t think there are many and this forum has continued to be a great meeting place.

      Delete
    2. Well done LJ
      You have done more than your best to get the BBC to re instate the lost blog.
      You have failed in your objective, but none of us can say that you haven't tried every avenue possible.
      And in the meantime we have all learned our way around this blog which Ruthy supplied for us.
      And you now prefer this one.
      So do I.

      Delete
    3. Admire the determination you had in chasing the Beeb "LanJan" (continuing after others including myself had thrown in the towel) Thank you!
      It became a matter of principle I feel and you came out the better person. How disrespectful to call you Janet when they do not know you and they were not even imparting good news.....
      Thank goodness for Ruthy 👏 a much better environment than the BBC anyway!

      Delete
  25. Somewhere towards the end of the BBC blog, a question was put to all the silent readers. I think it may have been Lan Jan that asked.
    It was a request to let us know how many read the blog, but never posted anything.
    The answer was to give a tick or something similar.

    I wonder if we could ask again, just to test the water to see if, as Ev says some old friends may be out there, silent, but with us nonetheless.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Lanjan. I shall raise my glass to you and all of us who have tried to get this massive institution to listen. I gave in after my conversation with F Finch, but as she said "I have no clout", and we have even less.
    I am also very happy here, and grateful that Ruthy continues to enable us to converse and share our thoughts and experiences.
    MrsP, we know we have silent readers, then when a name is mentioned, one will pop in and say boo/moo or even cuckoo. By the way where is cowgirl?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Still here just been very busy

      Delete
    2. Parsley you said "coucou" which I think is hello in French, so are you French - but with excellent English?

      Delete
    3. Still here and silently reading all the very interesting comments

      Delete
    4. coucou Janice!
      no, I'm definitely English (Lincs) but have lived in France since 1999.
      bisous!

      Delete
  27. BLOG
    I too have today had my final letter from the BBC , all they are interested in is that they haven't broken any editorial standards.
    They go on to say "There is a wider strategy for the BBC online which involves focusing on a few key areas and ensuring that every thing that the BBC publishes provides a distinctive public service ". So distinctive that no one is interested.
    Like Lan Jan I see no point in referring the matter to Offcom, whilst they acknowledge your letter there is no feed back, no doubt they are as useless as the other watchdogs.

    I have another complaint outstanding, had a letter today telling me they need more time. I am not sure what I was complaining about !!!, probably discrimination in the way that my comments had been removed. Time will tell.

    I

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. BLOG Had a reply from complaints department as follows:
      " Many thanks for getting in touch regarding the blog page for the Archers.I understand you are unhappy with the removal of the comments section.We appreciate that the Archers blog is a popular site for fans of the programme and a great place to share thoughts and ideas.Unfortunately it is the case that we have to keep BBC resources in constant review and occasionally it will mean changes to the services we offer.I appreciate you may continue to feel differently and therefore I have passed on your complaint to senior management and programme teams on our daily audience feedback report.These reports are among the most widely read sources of feedback in the BBC and ensures that your complaint has been seen by the right people quickly.This helps inform their decisions about current and future services. Once again, thank you for taking the time to get in touch with us. Kind regards, Gareth Murray. BBC Complaints Team.
      So that was the reply to my handwritten letter on nice stationery to the BBC. No reply from the similarly written letters to Lord Hall at the House of Lords and to what I think is the home of Tony Hall. Ho hum said piglet!!

      Delete
    2. Hi Cowgirl I thought maybe you had vanished to make the milkmaids smock to hang the yoke over. If you are doing the actual smocking that will take a month of Sundays!

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

      Delete
    4. The smocking and embroidery nearly finished, just the sleeve tops to smock and the shoulder tabs to embroider, should do them tonight .A bit of cheating though as I do have a machine to do the pleating.

      Delete
    5. No wonder you said you have been busy! I bet it will look lovely when finished.

      Delete
    6. That's my evening entertainment! At the bottom of my garden across the culvert there is a small wooded area, now that I have had a bridge put across and a scramble net put up for my great niece and nephew I have been clearing up ready for them to play in, when we are not at the beach of course and bagging up my wonderful dry muck heap, helped by the scratching hens, to take to my niece. No slacking here.

      Delete
    7. They are very lucky children.😊

      Delete
  28. Well ladies you have tried your magnificent best and I am sorry you have been so despicably treated. I did point out early on that should you ever catch any BBC feedback programme all praise is happily received and any criticism is the fault of listener/viewer. (Must be written instone somewhere in the charter.)

    This blog is a happier place - thanks Ruthy.

    ReplyDelete
  29. I so wanted to join the WRAF at 17yrs. My parents refused point blank, to give their permission. I went onto A-levels, Universaty etc, but to this day I wonder.....what if?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am now a 63yr, old, young "retiree" thanks to the changes to
      the personal pension plans in 2015. I was able to consolidate several pensions, and re-invest, to give me a viable income. I am still not unable to claim, my very well earned, State pension until Sept 2020. The forecast on my new pension, is now over £150 a month less. That's life.

      Delete
    2. One year today till I get my bus pass (and associated pension). Yo!

      Delete
    3. Thank you, but it's not my birthday. I'll be 65 years and 5 months (approx.) old when I reach retirement age, being in the transitional phase. Unless they increase it again before I get there . . .

      Delete
    4. I think increasing the pension age has done a lot of harm. I have a friend in Scotland who has had a tough life, starting life being abused and in poverty, followed by being in a harsh Children's Home. She now at 63 has a number of health problems, and has become depressed and suicidal because, despite letters from her doctor, she is being hazzled the whole time to return to work. I think the most vulnerable are being targeted, and my guess is that the assessors the Government is employing are paid according to how many people they get back into work. I also think it sad that now the word of doctors seems to be being ignored.

      Delete
    5. Bootgums. Like you I am a 1950's babe and so have been in the pension "transitional" phase, for many years. You are very close to me, as my pension age is my 66th birthday, September 2020. And to think I was eligible for my full pension, as you were, at 60, but it has been denied us.

      Delete
    6. PS When i eventually can claim my state pension, I will not be eligible for a "bus pass" or "winter fuel allowance" as my pension investments are too high. Why did I work so hard, save hard, and consider my future, paying full taxes and NI contributions for 37 years, whilst paying off a mortgage, as a single home-owner.

      Delete
    7. I don’t think WFA and bus pass are means tested so hope you will get them.

      Delete
    8. I think/hope you're right, Ev. Everyone qualifies for those benefits on state pension age.

      Delete
  30. Thank you to everyone who tried so hard to get the original blog reinstated. Thank you also to Ruthy for setting this one up. Cheers!

    ReplyDelete
  31. This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

    ReplyDelete
  32. May I add my thanks to all of you for campaigning so hard to get the BBC blogs back. I have to admit, somewhat shamefacedly, that I gave up a long time ago after receiving either no reply to my emails/letters or standard BBCese non-committal replies.
    I am much happier here anyway, especially not to be harangued by certain old bloggers, but do miss some of our old friends and wish they could find us again.
    Ruthy, I do hope we are not starting to be trolled by unwelcome intruders - sorry you have the job of dealing with them.

    ReplyDelete
  33. Archerphile - I promptly deleted that comment and can block that user if it happens again.

    Who is watching the England game? For me that will be 10am. Breakfast on the deck. The heat wave finally broke last night.

    ReplyDelete
  34. I’ll be watching the match. Bottle of non alcoholic beer in hand.
    Come on England !!!

    ReplyDelete
  35. Going out shortly. The town will be fairly empty I hope.
    I can hear the cheers from the pub as I write this, but, no football for me.
    I hate it.
    But wish the best to all, for whom it is important, and of course endorse national pride in wanting England to win.

    ReplyDelete
  36. I am expecting a wonderful hot + sunny evening, with a lot of football barbies + parties nearby! My neighbours have their large, inflatable pool blown up + filled, and the barbie is being sorted - If only I was 25-30 years younger! But I do remember 1966.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I can forgive their water usage - even in this drought period - and why not have a bit of fun now.

      Delete
  37. Ruthy, how sad for you, that for the first time you have had to remove a post, as the administrator.
    It is nice to welcome both old + new posters, but this is a lovely, calm, friendly site, and long may it continue so.
    Thank-you, for your attention to detail.

    ReplyDelete
  38. Well done England.
    Wimbledon, now that is very different. I am hopping channela between Edmund/Djokovic and Gulbis/Zverev. Both wonderful, interesting and entertaining matches, and am trying to cook the evening meal at the same time, and water pots, window box + hanging basket. It takes multi-tasking to a new level.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Glad that Croatia won against Russia.

    ReplyDelete
  40. Cry God for Harry, England and St George! (Shakespeare's Henry V before the English victory at Agincourt against much superior French forces.) Big improvement on It's coming home!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. We rarely agree ME, but I'm with you on this one! 😊

      Delete
    2. Should also add, 'A little touch of Harry in the night' ........or should that read ''early evening!" 🤔

      Delete
  41. I'm with MrsP, I'm not particularly interested in football, but yesterday was great for shopping.
    Not many people out and about.
    Will anyone be at work on Wednesday?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I believe the game is in the evening UK time so locally rush hour could start early.
      I missed the match yesterday and not a big fan. I had my National Archives day which was really interesting. On the way I walked over Mrs P’s bridge and then passed by the Waterloo station clock. There were people waiting under it, whether for people or trains I don’t know. Wish I could post my photo.😀

      Delete
    2. I tried looking into my family history, on my Irish side, but didn't get very far as most of the archives were destroyed in the uprising. Dublin was then the Capitol of Ireland. It was a fascinating exploration to undertake, and what I did find was, that my great grandfather was killed in the blitz and is buried in Mitcham. London. He, and my grandfather were both soldiers in the First World War. My grandfather was only fourteen and injured during one of the battles. During the 1916 uprising there were many Irish battalions fighting in France on the Brish side, many lost their lives.

      Delete
    3. Fourteen - so young. A great uncle fought at sixteen as so many lied about their ages.
      The Irish ancestry is tricky to trace as you say Stasia. My great grandfather was born to Irish parents and I am having a great struggle to trace him back before he married.
      My mother has an excellent archive of other branches of the family, including all my grandfather’s certificates and references from the merchant navy and afterwards when he became a draughtsman. I am told he worked on construction designs for the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The cranes that they used to build the bridge. He died when Mum was a baby.

      Delete
  42. I smiled when I saw a photograph in our Sunday paper of Sir Bobby Charlton in the Royal Box at Wimbledon when England were playing the match against Sweden.
    I bet he wished he hadn't been so keen to get a Celebrity "freebie" .
    I am so against that.
    A few years ago I had a letter printed in the Times about it.
    Lewis Hamilton who could have afforded to buy as many tickets as he wished was invited a year or two ago but was turned away because he was improperly dressed.
    Quite right too.
    Give the tickets to those people who love tennis but could not afford the vastly inflated prices .y
    I was watching the tennis on Centre Court two years ago -not in the Royal Box- and apparently the day before ,Zara and Mark Tindall were sitting just behind where I was.
    Good for them.



    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. maryellen, Ev, Lanjan, from the Archers blog about world events and football. I support all opinions, but then I would as I'm not English, and am not interested in football. However, I am getting extremely irratated when the first items In newspapers and the media news are sports results, and then we are subjected to endless chatter about the ifs, buts and the rise in the sale of waistcoats.
      It is a diversion, a means of getting us to believe that everything is rosey in the garden, of course we know it isn't, but we want to feel uplifted. So for 90 minutes we suspend reality and invest our emotions in a transitory experience which will eventually come to an end leaving us on a high. Then we move on to the reality of world events and the impact they have, not just on us, but to others throughout the world.
      In the end many of us are simply worried spectators consciously hoping things will be put right. Whether one goes to the theatre or indulges in watching a football match doesn't stop us from caring.

      Delete
    2. Indeed ,Stasia,
      I have just watched an exciting T20 Cricket Match on the television..
      I still care about more serious matters but for parts of the day recently some of us have been uplifted by other events.
      I was delighted that the main headline was about the Ecngland win.
      Are you not sick of it being about Brexit?
      I am.ò
      I would have preferred the headline had been that the Thai boys had all been rescued of course.
      I hope and pray that will be tomorrow's headline.
      I hope also that the brave Englishmen who are supporting the rescue attempt will be given whatever the most prestigious bravery award there is.

      Delete
    3. Leave me Bobby Charlton as a hero and a perfect gentleman, please please please? In my distant youth, we all fancied George Best, of course, but I always had a sneaking regard for Bobby. Of course I didn't fancy him – he was bald, for heaven's sake, and I was 14, or whatever – but he was admirable, and grown-up.

      Delete
    4. My point ,Bootgums is simply that had Bobbie Charlton or any other "Celebrity" wanted to go to Wimbledon they could have afforded to do so.
      "Celebrities "turn up at First Nights to Shows,Chelsea Flower Show (when they don't know the first thing about gardening )and no doubt other prestigious events .


      Delete
  43. Burnham Beeches Today 9.15 "A little touch of Harry in the night" Very apt! :))

    ReplyDelete
  44. Seasider.
    To think your great grandfather had an input into the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, I find very fascinating.
    Have you thought about, or tried to research any records in Australia? I watched the programme Who Do You Think You Are, when it was Craig Revel-Horwood and Jason Donovan. Although they both are Australians born and bred, the documents, history which wad found in Australia was very comprehensive. It might be a different approach for you, and your family, to try and learn more.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Miriam, thanks for your interest. It was actually my grandfather who was connected with the bridge (not the Irish relation) and his family were definitely Yorkshire folk. The construction of the bridge was contracted to a Yorkshire firm. So no Australian ancestry to explore although it would be interesting to see the bridge. My other half went to Australia once but I couldn’t face the long flight.

      Delete
    2. I love Who Do You Think You Are by the way, and a new series starts tomorrow.

      Delete
  45. Whatever every-one thinks about the football, it does show some sort on National Pride! I also enjoyed the video I came across, of The Guards Band in the fore-court of Buckingham Palace, playing "It's Coming Home". Luckily HM was not in residence.

    ReplyDelete
  46. I have just come in from the garden, put on TV and I have found an episode of "Cagney + Lacey". Talk about a blast from the past, and I always loved this series.

    ReplyDelete
  47. Miriam - respond to another of your post on TA blog, yes the Thai cave rescue reminisce of the Chilean miner rescue. I too was glued to the TV. These human events bring us all closer togetheras one humanity.

    Cagney and Lacey - oh my goodness, I used to watch that. Do they have fizzy hair and have shoulder pads in their blouses and jackets?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I always loved the style of Sharon Gless, no hair frizz, and had such wonderful class, esp. In her clothes. PS I also loved "Starsky + Hutch" but this has never been shown again.

      Delete
    2. Wish I had fizzy hair . . . 😀

      Delete
  48. stasia July 8, 2018 at 9:52 AM
    Just to clarify the point you made. The census records for the four censuses carried out between 1821 and 1851 in Ireland were destroyed at the start of the Irish Civil War in 1922 when the government-owned building based at Dublin's Four Courts suffered a major fire. Not during the Easter Rising of 1916.
    The capital of Ireland was and remains Dublin.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are right much was destroyed during the Civil War, for me the political unrest and troubles from 1916 to 1922 are all intertwined and eventually culminated in the division of Ireland. Belfast in the capital of N Ireland and remains part of the U.K. The Island of Ireland is still recognised by the Republic (26counties) and anyone born in the whole Island is Irish. However, individuals in the North (6 counties) are entitled to claim Irish and British nationality. By the way, Ulster is technically 9 counties so N. Ireland cannot claim to be Ulster when 3 counties are in the Republic. Of course the Irish question goes back much further than the commencement of the uprising, to the 1690's and Wolf Tone and even further back. I think the Irish constitution has Dublin as the capital, although I may be wrong.
      I am not an historian and am quite happy to be corrected, and to explain my reasoning when making wild statements.
      Apologies folks, a bit boring for those not interested, but will the Irish question ever be answered. I believe it will.

      Delete
    2. Not boring Stasia and Muckspreader, your history, but of interest generally.

      We could not afford to go to Ireland for our ' honeymoon ' but promised ourselves soon.
      Then the troubles started, and so we never went.
      I would still love to go to see that beautiful country.

      Delete
    3. stasia, I do not consider that your post made “wild statements”. As I said my point was for clarification only.
      I must, though, add another clarification. I agree with most of your post (July 9, 2018 at 10:04 AM) particularly that all history is intertwined. However, the partition of Ireland took place in May 1921 (the intention was to create two self-governing territories within Ireland, with both remaining within the United Kingdom). The Irish Free State was established in 1922. It was only in 1949 that the state officially became the Republic of Ireland (RoI).
      Further, as Northern Ireland (NI) is part of the UK anyone born there is automatically British (ie they do not need to claim this). A sizeable minority in NI desire a United Ireland (seeing NI as an artificial entity). The RoI would also have this as an objective. Since the Good Friday Agreement of 1998, agreed by both the UK and RoI governments, the status of Northern Ireland will not change without the consent of a majority of its population. Anyone born in NI can, as you say, claim Irish citizenship.
      I imagine this is far more than most of you will want or need to know. It is important, not least, because of Brexit. You will be pleased to hear that I will leave that for another day.

      Delete
    4. Very interesting, Muckspreader. I've read a bit about Irish history, but I need a reminder from time to time!

      Delete
  49. Does anyone else get really nervous watching England play? It's because I want them to win so much but during the Columbia game I had to go into the kitchen during the penalties as it was way too nerve-wracking. England won deservedly thank goodness. I remember 1966 and really hope England can perform a miracle and bring it home. Come on England!!

    ReplyDelete
  50. The football team the world wants to win out is Thailand's Wild Boars. I do hope whichever team does win the World Cup has the grace to dedicate their victory to those boys and their coach because I think it would mean an enormous amount to them and be a fitting recognition of their bravery and team spirit.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Maryellen I understand that the "boys" and manager- hopefully all rescued safely & soon if given a bill of good health are to be guests at the World Cup Final! I do hope they are able to live what for them will be "the dream" ⚽️ 👏

      Delete
  51. Sitting here alone in Frankfurt cat and house sitting it has been very lonely watching the football! I now understand why so many 'go to the pub' to watch big matches!
    Hopefully just a couple more matches in solitary viewing (I'm watching ALL the matches) and son and family will be back in time for the final!
    Now that the corner of the garden is in the shade, I'm off to change into gardening clobber and do some more 're-designing/landscaping!'
    Slightly concerned as female cat hasn't been in for food this morning. How on earth will I face my granddaughters if Luna disappears? :(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hope Luna returns soon, Spiceycushion.
      Did they ask you to redesign the garden ?
      Will you get a fee ?

      Delete
    2. Mrs P - Yes. Son said "I really want to clear out that corner which, under all that invasive ivy and dirt, is actually paved!"
      7 bags of leaves and a stack as high as the garden shed of cut down ivy (growing round mature trees at the edge of the factory car park back and side of this house) which had taken root years ago it seems, I actually found a patio!!!
      My fee? He paid for the ticket! Haha !
      Well it is a change/holiday to be alone with no-one else to have to worry about, to cook for etc! Can do what I want, when I want. No exam marking available for me this year so brain not fried so physical work a nice change.
      When I go back home next week it will be prepare four cricket teas in ten days; two of which will be for mid- week County Senior teams. New ones for me. I'm not sure how much the over 60s teams and Over 70s teams will eat! Not as much, I'm sure, as The Colts (16-18 yrs) :))

      Delete
    3. The cost of your ticket seems a fair reward to me Spiceycushion.
      I have designed or redesigned several gardens in my time, not all of them mine.
      An activity I really enjoy.

      I hope you are satisfied with today's work.
      Well done.
      I too have had a very productive day.
      And I am feeding myself too.
      That's an achievement in itself.

      Delete
  52. I have been able to watch the penalties in the World Cup but I have not been able to watch the pictures shown of the smiling Thai boys in the cave .
    What brave boys.
    I do hope that their young Coach is not blamed for what has happened.
    What a magnificent young man he must be.
    Like everone else I feel for the family of the other young man who died in the rescue attempt.
    I keep checking the news to see how things are progressing.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have already made some comments about the coach, but I admire him. Why they went into the caves is still unknown. However, the coach has managed to keep them all together, and find a "spot" for them all to survive, for as long as they did. I think he should be praised for this, not prosecuted, which might happen.

      Delete
  53. Latest news is that 8 boys have been rescued and hopefully the remaining four boys and their Football Coach will be brought out tomorrow.

    ReplyDelete
  54. I feel for the four sets of parents, who are still waiting patiently, and praying for the safe return of their sons.
    I have to echo Lanjan, I and second your sentiments about the brave diver who sadly passed away, during this dramatic situation. I have had to ask though, that as an ex Navy SEAL, how was it that he ran out of oxygen. as I would have thought that he would have known just how much oxygen he needed in his tank, to return. It is very sad, regardless.
    PS Boris Johnson has just resigned!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Back to Wimbledon. I am not a football fan, but I might just watch it tomorrow night. But be warned, that whenever I watch an England World Cup match, they lose, the exception being that match in 1966(did I really watch it B+W?)

      Delete
  55. Tomorrow it is France VBelgium Miriam.
    Wednesday England V Croatia
    I think I am very kind telling you that if you say when you watch we usually lose!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thank you. This just shows that I am not a football follower.

      Delete
  56. Yes eight boys now rescued, but apparently the parents are not yet being told which of the boys have been rescued, nor allowed to see them in hospital.
    I have mixed feelings about whether this is fair or not.
    Good or bad !

    I too wondered why that fellow ran out of oxygen when he must have known how low he was.
    Perhaps wanting to do more than he was able.

    My cat is now going out, not at all far. Just over the wall into the adjacent garden.
    Unfortunately this garden is the domain of another cat. Female and a quarter the size of him.
    I have just spent the best part of fortyfive minutes watching Puss encroach on the other cats territory with the other cat, Sasha, sitting tight. They spent almost half an hour about eighteeninches apart, occasionally making noises, low growls and squeaks but nothing apparently serious. Puss has finally retreated I'm pleased to say. I would not be surprised if the tiny cat Sasha was to be the feisty one.

    Off to see a film now.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. "Puss cats" will sort out their territories and own their personal space. Just remember, your cat is stiil in his/her very early stages in a new and strange, but very loving, home. A cat will always return to the place, where it has food, water and comforr.

      Delete
  57. Someone earlier asked about the silent members of this community- and requested that we identify ourselves. I read with great interest both of these blogs every day and I am very grateful for the opportunity that Ruthy has given us all - even those like me who contribute very little

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, Ruthy has certainly given us all, a wonderful Archers community, whether each and every-one of us joins in actively, or prefers to just read in the back-ground. That choice is there, for each to share in "this community" in their own way. Pop in now + again.

      Delete
  58. I laughed when I saw that the name of the other cat is Sasha ,Mrs P.
    The cat who live 3doors away from us is called Sasha.
    She is a beautiful tabby with lovely big eyes.
    We call her Slasha because we think possibly she is the one who may have attacked Percy. He is petrified of her. He decided he would move in with us when we took him to the vet after the attack as his people were at work .
    When we have the patio door closed ,she comes to it and stares in.
    Percy is safe now.
    Poppy soon chases her away.

    ReplyDelete
  59. merci Ruthy! really appreciate it.
    Janice, did you pick up my reply to your "coucou" comment?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes thanks Parsley I just did. I quite often read through last thing at night although I often don't comment. I was one of the silent readers until the protest started. Bisous to you too!

      Delete
  60. Gypsy and I met a dog called Boris Johnson today. He owns a lady called June who is 83 and still going strong. Gypsy usually takes no notice of other dogs but did manage to touch noses with him! June gave me a big boost as I hope to be as lively at her age in 13 years time! I wonder what Boris will do now that he has resigned as Foreign Secretary. I have the feeling we haven’t seen the back of him yet!

    ReplyDelete
  61. Mrs P Just in case you don't scroll back. After a very sleepless night where I got up twice to check for the wretched cat I finally got up, went to the kitchen and there she was sitting outside the back door! What a relief! Texted my son to tell him and to say can't wait for him to come home Friday and take responsibility! I am tempted to keep her indoors which might work today as it's cooler but have to have windows open when it's hot as the house gets so hot and stuffy.
    Slight dampness in the air today and no sunshine. Still loads to do in the garden or could do some exploring as it's not so hot. Hope numbers two and three sons have remembered to water my runner beans as it doesn't seem anyone in Europe has been getting rained upon!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I'm struggling to keep the garden going without any rain. I've got to the point of having to decide what I really want to save and what can be sacrificed.

      Delete
    2. Me too Cheshire Cheese.
      I have decided to take cuttings now of my salvias,penstamen and perennial wallflowers
      We have one amazing rose bush that has lots of dark red blooms on it.
      It is called Hot Chocolate and is a David Austin rose.
      The other roses are now all looking sad

      Delete
  62. Lanjan - yesterday re your comment about the World Cup semi-finals:
    What am I going to do if the Final is between England and France?
    Suppose I should support England but having French family, (and knowing the grandsons will support France) I am in a quandary. I suppose they couldn’t tie, and share the cup? 🤔 😊

    ReplyDelete
  63. I know what you should do,Archerphile.
    You can support France with great gusto this evening when they play Belgium.
    You can support England tomorrow ,waving your Union Jack.
    There is only a 1 in 4 chance that the final will be between England and France so the likelihood is that you won't need to worry.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Lanjan - good advice! 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 🇫🇷

      Delete
  64. Muckspreader, today is the day. The wolves are gathering in the background and our BREXIT supporting 'special friend ' is coming this week to be entertained. Will he rescue the PM with a special trade deal? Or just hold her hand. BJ's reality for the future of the country is economically and politically dangerous.
    I wish I'd bought those toilet rolls.

    ReplyDelete
  65. I will miss today's football game, it starts 10 am here and I will be in a training class all day in Philadelphia. On a train heading down now. Will hook up with everyone later.

    We are luck this year no drought in the NE US, just very hot. Having to water my potted plants twice a day.

    ReplyDelete
  66. Today is my dear mum's 5th anniversary �� I am so relived it is a lovely but much cooler day Mr R and I will be taking flowers later to the Crem / and to read the Book of Rememberance and then go to a nearby country tearoom that we often took her and a friend to. In those days the owners always put a candle in their cakes if it was a birthday such a kind touch and a lovely memory.
    Gone on a bit but felt I would like to share her memory with my Ruthy blog friends ��

    Just watching the 100 yrs of the RAF on tv 1pm will see a fly past of 100 aircraft ending with the Red Arrows!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My thoughts are really with you and your Dad. Although we all adapt to our loss, we never forget.
      And yes, I watched the "fly pass". I thought it was very memorable, moving and so well done. I am having to rethink my initial impression of The Duchess of Sussex. I am beginning to accept her, and I think her stylists, advisors etc are doing an admirable "job".
      HM The Queen, certainly looked her, true Regal and Magnificant Self today.

      Delete
    2. Lady R, thank you for sharing that with us. Today, (11th), is a memorial day for me too. It's a time to concentrate on happy memories.

      Delete
  67. Oops the first( ? ) should have been a rose and the last a smiley face!

    ReplyDelete
  68. I was so very releived, when I heard that all the Thai trapped cave persons, have been safely rescued. I had some very serious doubts, if this actually be the outcome. I am so very glad, that my doubts were so unjustified.
    I cannot imagine the relief and jubilation, which will now be felt by all the families, and all were involved in this very miraculous rescue.
    I would like the British cave divers, who were the ones who initially found them, to be honoured in some way.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Good news for the family and Thai nation on the rescue. The world has heaved a big sigh of relief.
    Big thanks to the rescuers and their bravery.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I have to add, that I am not sure if I could endured that, as I hate being immersed in water and being in closed in spaces. I love being on water though, be it in a canoe, in a "panga" or on a yacht - but being in water, just freaks me out.

      Delete
  70. I am on a "rant". I was watching Wimbledon on BBC2, a mens double with Jamie Murray, but suddenly the broadcast stopped, and I have had to go onto the "red button" to continue watching, with a contimuity "break"!
    I can imagine the uproar, if this happened midway through an England World Cup Match.
    Rant Over!
    Off to enjoy this tennis match.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Archerphile,first part over.
    Congratulations to France.
    I do hope you get to have a worry in the final though!
    Will wait until tomorrow before I make any further suggestions.
    Incidently did you know "Sir" Geoffrey has had a quadruple heart bypass?
    He is recovering now though and hopes to return later this Season to commentate?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. No, LanJan I didn’t know about Geoffrey Boycott, I do hope all has gone well for him. That is exactly the same operation Mr A had in 2002 at the Brompton Hospital in London. Afterwards he attended the local Cardiac Re-hab group for exercises to slowly get back to full health. He still goes every week after 16 years (!) and credits it with keeping him fitter than he was before
      the op. I would urge Geoffrey to do the same if he has such a facility where he lives.

      Delete
  72. All-ez les Bleus!
    All-ez les Bleus!
    (at least 'till Sunday...)
    :-))

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. My grandsons are thrilled at the result and I was enthusiastically singing the Marseillaise, such a stirring national anthem 🇫🇷
      But if England win tomorrow I shall have to change allegiance for the final 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿

      Delete
    2. always good to have a plan B :-)

      Delete
    3. Because there is no plan C 🇫🇷

      Delete
  73. Re Geoffrey Boycott. He remarked that members of TMS team had visited him and Aggers was already 'Taking the Mickey!'
    I, too, am so glad that all the children have been safely rescued in Thailand, Did you know that one of the two British divers is a Cub Scout Leader? A friend of theirs yesterday said on the BBC news that he suspects that both men will 'slip into England and return home quietly as they are both very unassuming.'
    I am sure even if Britain does not award some of medal then Thailand will. I do hope so.
    So many worries and uncertainties in the world at the moment. I hope we can forget them for 90 minutes tonight!

    ReplyDelete
  74. I won't be watching the football tonight. I am watching Wimbledon- Federer v Anderson and this is as much "nail-biting" that I can cope with in one day.
    I wish England well.

    ReplyDelete
  75. I was surprised to hear Louise Minchin, on BBC Breakfast, after a very long feature on tonight’s match, say “You can listen to the match on BBC5Live, or see highlights at 10.45pm on BBC1”.
    Does this mean the Beeb are not going to show the whole match live and that it can only be seen on ITV? If so, bet the BBC are spitting feathers!

    ReplyDelete
  76. That has been the case all along ,Archerphile as far as I am aware.
    Some matches are on BBC and some are on ITV.
    In general I have found that the ITV commentators are better.
    I also like whichever Neville brother is on ITV because he says just what he thinks and doesn't pull his punches and just talks about the Game and doesn't wander off on other subjects -just like his brother does on Sky
    Sky have the best football commentators in my opinion but they are not televising The World Cup.
    I imagine that the Final will be on both Channels.
    I doubt many folk will be listening to The Archers at 7.00 pm unless they live in Ambridge where the inhabitants don't know there is a football World Cup.


    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I meant that both Neville brothers are good commentators .

      Delete
    2. As I am Not normally a football fan, I didn’t realise about the different commentaries - Mr A always tunes in the BBC1 by default for everything! So I shall enjoy hearing different commentators tonight and see if I agree with you.......and who knows, I might even start to watch football matches next season too. ⚽️

      Delete
    3. I listened to The Archers at 7.00 pm. It was all right. Debbie does make a terrific difference, and Kate made some sense (though I think I'd rather miss the caricature if she ceased to be one!).

      Delete
  77. I am not a football fan. I must be in the minority who won't be watching tonight.
    The "main road" nearby to my home, which I hear in the distance, has suddenly gone very quiet.
    I will continue watching Wimbledon, and listen to TA. I will "hear" the football from neighbours!
    "Its Coming Home".

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Miriam. I haven't watched the football, am a tennis fan. Very disappointed Roger dId not win.

      Delete
  78. I got home for the second half of the football game. Croatia was much more energetic through the second 45 minutes, and tied the game. England couldn't come back after Croatia tied. Too bad, though good for Croatia.

    ReplyDelete
  79. Think we can be proud of the England squad. Although they didn’t win they fought valiantly until the end. Southgate showed his special ch aracteristics when he embraced every one and seemed to be telling them they had done well.

    ReplyDelete
  80. Lanjan you were right - now I shan’t have the problem of which team to cheer for on Sunday - it’s got to be France.
    (But I do hope England win the 3rd place game against Belgium, because they have been brilliant and deserve to come home with something. 😢

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I hear the football commentators that are on Fox Sports for the World Cup games and they are terrible! During the Premier League, they are shown live here in the states, due to time difference we see them later morning, early afternoon, and the commentating are so much better.

      Delete
    2. I would like to see England go home with a trophy, even if 3rd place. A lot of good teams fell before they did.

      Delete
  81. Well the dream was fun while it lasted. I agree Ruthy that the Fox commentators are awful but I'm watching in the States so have no choice. They rabbit on, never pausing for breath, with stats, past history etc etc instead of concentrating on the game being played. Sad for the Three Lions but they can be proud of their achievement.

    ReplyDelete
  82. I aus at the theatre yesterday watching Pip on stage - she's a competent young actor and an engaging one. In fact, she not only fitted my notion of Pip but also LanJan in her twenties: tall, slim (but sturdy) and attractive, with a ready smile and merry twinkle! I had to cross London to get home afterwards and instead of the usual strap hanging found I had compartments virtually to myself. Talk about ghost town!

    ReplyDelete
  83. The Lambeg drum will be beating loudly today along with the auld orange flute. Still no government. 👺

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Ah !
      Needed to look it up, but see that today is the Glorious Twelfth.

      Delete
  84. Spiceycushion- hope the garden is coming along nicely and to your satisfaction ( as well as the owner on return ) and the cat is behaving itself and coming in at places night.

    My cat is now exploring his new territory and returning within a reasonable amount of time. So less concern on my part.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Only just listened to Last night's programme.
    Apart from hearing Debbie it was well worth missing.
    Regarding the football I actually felt fine about the result.
    I surprised myself.
    It was simple.
    Croatia were the better team so they deserved to win.
    We did better than was expected leading to last night's match and it has made folk feel good
    Gareth Southgate and his team were gentlemen at the end of the Game acknowledging the supporters.

    ReplyDelete
  86. I don't know about Glen Hoddle but I who know next to nothing was doing my share of shouting at the players -telling them where to pass the ball -,the referee and the linesmen.
    I was giving my opinion on whether players were offside ,had dived or deserved to be booked.
    I was telling goal keeper Pickford(who I wish had come to Liverpool instead of Everton) to be quicker when taking a goal kick.
    Mr LJ who has actually played the game watches more or less silently until a goal is scored but even then doesn't clap or yell Yeeeeeesssss like me.
    I am really enjoying this World Cup and sorry Archerphile but will be supporting the team who beat us yesterday on Sunday.
    I may have this wrong but I believe that Croatia only has a population of 4million .
    Well done them.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I will supporting Croatia. It is time a new and upcoming team; wins and takes the accolade.

      Delete
  87. England will come home with Pride.
    I think a lot of people have forgotten, that they still have another match to play on Saturday, against Belgium, for 3rd place! What an accolade this will be, to win, and take a well deserved.3rd place.

    ReplyDelete
  88. RUTHY.
    I have just seen + read, a post on Your Archers Comments Blog (running parallel).
    This was posted by "Unknown" at 11.37am and written in block capitals. I think that I might just know who it is, but I am obviously not mentioning names or pointing fingers.
    All I want to say is, Be Aware.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I might be Very wrong, but I think that the type of writing + content, just seems extremely familar, to some-one, who I came across on another BBC Blog Site ( not the TA one, as I dd not contribute to it.).
      Be Careful + Vigilant - but I might just be very, very wrong!

      Delete
  89. I didn't watch the football last night, as I was so enthralled with Wimbledon, and I had to continue with Nadal + del Potro. It was brilliant.

    ReplyDelete
  90. Were it not for the fact that I have French family I would be supporting Croatia too !
    With a population of only just over four million it is amazing that they can field such an excellent team.
    And apart from that, it is a truly beautiful country and the people we came into contact with, on holiday, there couldn’t have been more friendly or generous. But, afraid it has to be France or Grandma and Pa will be persona non grata!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I loved Croatia and the local, warm and friendly people I met there.
      PS it is raining here, for the first time in about 6 weeks, but it is only a short, sharp shower. Better than nothing, though.

      Delete
  91. Mrs P Thank you for your thoughts. A lot more temperate on this blog - Phew! Cat did come back and has disappeared again. I'm sure it's because the girls aren't here. Family back tomorrow afternoon so I am really hoping Luna comes home in the morning! Garden is finished with what I can do. Son needs to pull down/chop up some of the bigger 'hindrances!'
    I don't think we'll have time to do anything more in the garden as it's youngest granddaughter's 7th birthday on Saturday and there is to be a party but not sure if Sat or Sun.? I fly home Monday pm and hope to get back to get to the pub with the other scouters to plan next term's meetings!
    I'm glad your cat is settling down. Always a worry when exploring new territory.
    Oh well 11.10 here so bed time! Night all

    ReplyDelete
  92. I thought I posted this yesterday and I can't see that it is objectionable and was deleted so I'm posting again because I thought it was really funny. (Simple mind some times.) If anyone objects feel free to complain and have it deleted!

    "When a woman gets to a certain age she starts to accumulate cats.

    This is known as 'The Many Paws'"

    Boom Boom!

    ReplyDelete
  93. I haven't forgotten the England will play again on Saturday but I don't know if my nerves can stand it if they lose!

    ReplyDelete

Popular posts from this blog