SADLY - THIS POST IS CLOSED 
WATERLOO CLOCK MEETUP - 03 DEC 2018

Comments

  1. That is so kind of you, Ruthy ! Many thanks. Perfect pic. : The clock + Benugo overhang. See, folks, can't miss it ! 😎😘😍😀

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  2. Absolutely brilliant Ruthy.
    Thank you so much.

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  3. Fantastic pic. Just perfect.
    Hey seasider , im still on for the north east archers get together too.

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    1. me too, specially as I cant make London.
      Your pic Ruthie makes me quite nostalgic.

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  4. Well done that woman !
    Thank you Ruthie. A perfect meeting point, well illustrated.
    You work so hard for us.

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    1. Mrs P I for one would be delighted if you could make it to our North East meet.

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    2. That would be lovely 🤗. I am making a quick trip up there next week, then from mid January I will be there much more, so I can be flexible. We will have to work out a meeting point - I am guessing around the Whitby area might be in the middle of us??
      Incidentally I think the lovely cafe in Grosmont old school could be run by the parents of Will Sanderson Thwaite who used to play Chris Carter. They came up when I googled. Ah, seems they stopped running it this summer but the cafe is still there. I’ll stop waffling now.

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  5. That’s a brilliant photo Ruthy. Really looking forward to it 🍰☕️🤗

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  6. I had just told my sons I had made arrangements to go to London then laughed out loud when I 'tuned in' here!!!! Thank you Ruthy!

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  7. Cowgirl I replied to your post up above.🙂

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  8. Seasider and PtbY I will be able to tell you about my connection with the North Yorkshire area when we meet up.
    Maybe I have mentioned it already.

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    1. Lan Jan, that’ll be lovely - I remember you saying something about the NYM railway so it would be good to hear about it. And of course Mrs P and anyone who is inclined would be welcome when we meet up north, as far as I’m concerned. Anyway one step at a time, eh.

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  9. I so hope that all your arrangements for the "meet up", work out as planned. It is what, now less than a fortnight away, and hopefully the weather + rail delays, will be kind to you all.

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  10. I too hope that your meet up goes well and look forward to reading about it

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  11. Recently when I have put "Archersfan " into search, the first thing I have read is that we are to have a meet up at Waterloo on Monday 3rd December.
    This means that the world and his wife know about it.
    I think we are going to find the place full of folk wanting to get into the act .
    There will of course be the script writers who want to know what we think they should be writing about.
    There will be the newspaper reporters who think it is amazing that somebody in the USA has organised a blog for us when the BBC let us down and there will be people who want "our" story because they think it will be a good idea for a film.

    The film will be called "Ruthy's blog"
    We have some English Language specialists who can write the script.
    (Bootgums will proof read it)
    It will become a hit like Calendar Girls.
    Obviously Meryl Streep will play Ruthy.
    I see Judy Dench as Mrs P and Celia Imrie as Carolyn,Eleanor Bron as Archerphile.
    Trust me I have got the actors in mind for you all!
    I see me being played by Maggie Smith-tall and bossy although I would prefer to be played by Penelope Wilton but I think she is playing Lady R.
    That can be sorted out at a later date.
    I see Maryellen as our Agent but of course I haven't asked her yet and she may decline.
    Just thought you all ought to know what may happen in the future!

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    1. All sounds jolly good fun, LanJan - I'll bring my walking stick to clear a way through the mob! Just out of curiosity, who've you got lined up to play me, or have you not got that far down the list yet?

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    2. Excellent choice,Sarnia.
      I did wonder if some of you might like to be played by an unknown person to give an unknown actress a Break but I suppose if they haven't made it by the time they get to middle age they have probably given up.

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    3. Well LanJan I suppose this could be an opportunity for me to return to my earlier profession.

      I do love your imagination !

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  12. LanJan - how wonderful. I can’t think of anyone else other than Meryl Streep playing me!

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  13. The casting looks good so far, Lanjan, but couldn't we play ourselves ?! I hope the situation doesn't turn out as you spin it, though - when do we get the chance for a good old matter, with all those furry mikes in our faces? Then again, maybe I'm just being a killjoy......

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    1. If you would prefer to play yourself ,Carolyn that can certainly be arranged .
      I might arrive a bit earlier than we planned and if I foresee any problems with the crowds I will come up with a Plan B .
      Once a Queens Guide........
      Be prepared.
      (This morning on the telephone I was telling a friend and fellow Archers addict about our meeting .
      I haven't seen her for nearly 15 years.

      I said that you are expecting somebody who is tall ,slim and incredibly attractive and there was a pause.....
      She then said "Well you are tall and did dress elegantly!"
      Not quite the same!)

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    2. Ah, she hasn't seen you for 15 yrs so doesn't know how unchanged you are....

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  14. May I be played by Cate Blanchett? If she can play Bob Dylan, then....

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    1. Certainly Gary.
      I will pencil that in
      Please feel free to choose your own Actors .
      My ideas were only suggestions .

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    2. How about Bob Dylan himself, GG ? He's prob. too old, though.

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    3. Just a tad Carolyn!

      Am trawling through travel websites today to see if I can get to Waterloo for the big day without having to spend eleventeen million pounds....😋

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    4. GG - Cate Blanchet as you - I would like to see that!

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    5. In past years, I was told several times that I looked like Glenda Jackson. A friend said, 'Oh dear, she's a lot older than you.'

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  15. I look forward to seeing you all on Youtube or better still the Archers website.

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    1. I have a very basic mobile that does not take photographs.
      At least some others will be able to take pictures or even a video of us, (without the accompanying hordes ). If so would other contributors to this blog want to see them if it were possible to add pictures, which would be up to Ruthy of course.
      I think it was Archerphile or Spiceycushion who have said they would prefer to continue to ' imagine' what we each look like.
      Discuss.

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  16. Sarnia, have you managed to change your hospital appointment so that you can join us after all ?

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  17. I am a bit worried about Seasider or PtbY .
    Which one of them will be played by Jodie Whittaker?
    There are several Lancastrian actresses.
    Ann Reid is too small to be me -and slightly older I think as is Maggie Smith but then Judy Dench is older than Mrs P and she hasn't complained.
    I am inde ring who will play Maryellen.
    Olivia Coleman hasn't been snapped up yet.
    Re our Meeting.
    To answer Mrs P I am happy to meet but not photograph.

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  18. As I thoroughly intend to be there next Monday I think it must have been Archerphile who would prefer to imagine!
    Carolyn - If only Bob Dylan could be there. (Sigh) I know this is sacrilegious but when I was taking the Cubs into our local 'modern' church on Remembrance Sunday they were playing a recording of Bob Dylan singing (strangely Blowing in the Wind?!) and I remarked to my friend 'How appropriate. I have to say Dylan is my god!'
    I have been in love with him since I was 16 years old!
    I do hope there aren't any 'gatecrashers?' That has made me a bit worried I have to admit.
    Some pupils used to tell me that I reminded them of Penelope Keith (or vice versa!) If I could have her figure I'd be happy!

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  19. Penelope Keith it is,Spicycushion although I have to say I can't be doing with her voice.
    It is your choice though.
    You see it is funny but I had you as petite so PK I think is quite tall.
    I would have said the one who played Barbara -Felicity Kendal but I think she has had Botox so I didn't think she would be suitable to play you.

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    1. Fingers crossed NO ONE goes for Felicity Kendal. Can't abide her.(voice, acting, in interviews...)
      Olivia Coleman was mentioned. PtbY comes to mind - don't know why.

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    2. Yes Olivia Coleman for either P tb Y or Seasider . Years ago I would have gone for Julie Christie.
      She was so beautiful then.
      When I was in my twenties it would have been Natalie Wood who was petite,with lovely eyes and long dark hair.
      Nothing like me.
      One thing is certain ,there is nobody on The Archers who I would like to play me.
      In truth I think (most of you are too young to know them) some of the most beautiful actresses were those we saw over 60 years ago and they could act.
      Olivia De Haviland ,Vivien Leigh,Greer Garson come to mind.

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    3. I won some magazine competition as a Natalie Wood look a like when I was fourteen.
      My daughter apparently tells people that I looked like Audrey H when I was young.
      I have to reinforce the fact that the mirror tells a very very very different story now. The only similarity to either of the two women above is that I still tend to look neat in my appearance.

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    4. And I thoroughly endorse Carolyn regarding F Kendal.

      But then that reminds me of the wonderful Kay Kendal and it might only be me and LJ who remember her.

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    5. I remember her Mrs P.
      Another beautiful woman.
      She sadly died of Leukaemia when she was a young woman.
      Wasn't she married to Rex Harrison?
      I really don't think that any of today's young actresses can hold a candle to many of those of yesteryear.

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    6. I believe Rex Harrison had eight wives (Henry VIII, you're an amateur!), so I expect Kay Kendal was one of them.

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  20. I think it was my height Lan Jan that reminded the girls as I am almost 6ft tall. My Mum was the shortie of the family at 5ft 8ins. Dad was 6' 4" and my brother is 6' 8"! When in the Navy as a teenager he chose submarines but hit a late growth spurt and had to transfer as he was bent double all the time! :)

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    1. Just to add I love Olivia Coleman but she was totally away with the fairies on the couple of interview shows I have seen her on. Completely 'not with it' in a most delightful way. love her acting as well.

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  21. I’ll be played by Diana Rigg......yorkshire born.

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  22. Good idea PbY.
    I feel very noble because I always said if my life story were ever filmed I would want Meryl Streep to play me and I have handed her over to Ruthy!
    Clint Eastward would play Mr LJ.
    The Bridges of Madison County.
    What a book!
    Oh what a mistake the character MS played made in that film
    (As did Celia Johnson in "Brief Encounter"

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  23. Haven’t seen that film Lanjan. Will have to find it. I do like Meryl Streep. I really like her in mamma Mia. I know it’s a love it or hate it film but to me it’s a feel good film that you can have a sing a long to and come out of the cinema feeling great. Also the 3 men in it are very pleasant on the eye. 😍

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  24. I was briefly at school with Lesley Nicol (Downton Abbey), so if we peel away the layers we'd have roughly the same accent. She was short and ginger, though.

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  25. I woke in the night wondering how we will recognise one another.
    It did dawn on me that we will all be standing alone.
    We know that Spicycushion is tall and I am tallish.
    I think Mrs P is Petite.
    I did say that I was going to be wearing a red duffle coat but now I plan to wear a suede coat so I can put a red rose (bud) on it.
    My hair is naturally what a kind person once called "field mouse" but for years it has been highlighted .
    I went a couple of days ago to have it done again -plus a cut -and she has cut it very short and the highlights look sort of white rather than ash blonde and there are a heck of a lot of them.
    So that is me!

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  26. I don't think that'll be a problem Lanjan, I used to 'recognise' strangers I was supposed to meet without knowing what they looked like, you just look at people and they look back at you with a knowing glance.

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  27. Lanjan I am flattered beyond words for you to consider Penelope Wilton to play me in your proposed film. She is only slightly older than me but not as silver yet?. Maybe it is as well that I am unable to attend this particular Waterloo “meet and greet” as I would hate you to think your choice misplaced and to have your expectations shot down in flames 😂
    I would love to see a photo or video from Dec 3rd and if posted here, should that be possible anyone not wishing to see it ( and we know Archerphile feels this way) could easily avoid doing so.

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  28. No problem as far as I'm concerned: my appointment is now sorted, and I should arrive at about 12.20, probably the only passenger displaying two masts and a funnel!

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  29. Yes I was in the past described as petite. But that was when I was a size 8 or even sometimes a size 6. Now that I slide between 12 and 14 I don't feel that I fit the petite description.
    Your hair sounds lovely LJ. Mine was lovely when I had it.

    I have described myself as being bald in the past, but over the last five years 'it' has grown and thickened, so now covers my head completely in fine down.
    I will probably be wearing a green wool coat and a distinctive beret of a sort.
    And probably yellow tights with a yellow bag.
    Will confirm when sure of weather conditions.

    Over to the next description.......

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  30. Good idea Lanjan. I may have to find a white rose bud. It’ll either be that or I’ll find a Yorkshire flag and drape it round me. 🤔😁

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  31. Glad you've managed to rearrange your appointment Sarnia. If you arrive at 12.20-ish, remember we'll be in Benugo's by then, so look above & you'll hear a bunch of women being quite loud !
    Must remember, 2 statuesque ladies, white rose, red rose, green coat, yellow bag & tights. No idea what I'll wear - depends on mood + weather. Grey hair, bobbed, not floating free spiritedly like Mary Beard's mane.( Did colour for a while, it was nice, but had a minor epiphany a few years back, & went natural....be assured, just talking about hair, would never discard bra & knickers)

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    1. Oops ! Note to self.
      Better remember to wear bra and knickers.

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    2. I have just looked up the meaning of the word statuesque.
      I have always thought it meant tall and shapely
      One says "big and tall" and another says" tall and intimidating."
      Please don't tell me which I am.

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    3. 😂 I shall await the verdict given after net Mon LJ 😂

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    4. I didn't think it meant big ! Tall, arresting & impressive, I thought. Certainly shapely. How would 'junoesque' suit Madam LJ ?
      Now if I'd written 'Rubenesque', I would have meant shapely with LOTS of flesh !

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    5. Definitely not that one Carolyn.
      Compared to Spicysushion I am not even tall.
      I think we will have to ignore the "esques " and just say tallish compared to Mrs P
      Unlike her I never looked like any Cinema Beauty although my mother thought I looked like Wendy Craig who was on TV.

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  32. You can’t beat grey hair. I’ve been wanting mine to be all white for years. Wish it would hurry up. Did dye mine for quite a lot of years but ....I hate going to the hairdressers, my hair grows soo quickly that after a fortnight it really wanted doing again. AND it got so expensive.

    So I’ll be there waiting with my short grey hair and glasses.

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  33. Ooh I hope we don’t get any hijackers pretending to be us...I fell prey to a jigsaw half way up the motorway. It’s called “under the clock”. I just had to buy it.

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  34. PtbY - I thought your hair was lovely!

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    1. Thanks Ruthy. If folk are interested is it ok to show them our photo. If you’d rather stay incognito that’s fine.

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  35. Can't wait to see the comments after the meetup! GG - were you able to find a way to get there without spending 17 million?

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    1. Decisions, decisions, decisions...!

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    2. I really hope you found a cheap train ticket GG. We could do with a male perspective on things.

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  36. Thinking about photographs on Monday again.
    LJ said she does not want any.
    I object to the way many people think it is perfectly acceptable today to take photographs willy nilly of all and sundry. It shows a lack of sensitivity towards others.

    So I think this is a subject we need to be clear about before we meet.

    So can we discuss ?

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  37. Course we can.
    I think that anyone who doesn’t want a photo needn’t be in a photo and anyone who doesn’t mind can be in one. Simples!!

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  38. Did I say that Mrs P?
    Thinking about it now ,I will go with the majority decision.




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    1. PtbY has a lovely photo of us two together. I think I might keep myself anonymous to continue the mystery of my identify.

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    2. That sounds very mysterious Ruthy ...

      I'm really looking forward to hearing all about the meet up, photos or no photos.
      The descriptions have set my imagination going ...

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  39. Yes, the meeting itself is the main thing. I'm fine about photos because being both extremely vain & utterly unphotogenic adds up to a willingness to succumb to any photo opportunity in the hope that THIS one will be ok ! Just occasionally, it pays off ..
    Of course agree that everyone's preferences must be respected.

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    1. Totally agree Carolyn.
      I only like having my photo taken when the slimming filter is on.....😉

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    2. Good. Discussion taking place.
      More opinions please.

      Yes LanJan you said it on the 24 Nov. At 4.04 pm
      But now your ok about it.
      Understood !

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  40. Personally I prefer not to 'do' photos as they never turn out to be even remotely similar to what I 'see' in the mirror! However it wouldn't worry me one way or the other if someone wanted to have one to keep. Just to add I have a lovely talented hairdresser who I visit at her home every six weeks as I really hate the idea of being grey! So...... tall, definitely statuesque in the real sense ( :))) ) and light brown hair. My one personal indulgence! I may wear a badge though!

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    1. Just noticed. I think that should be "whom I visit!"

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    2. Funny thing, that's exactly what happens to me!

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    3. Same here ! ( If you're talking about what's seen in the mirror, as opposed to what a camera does to one's face)

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  41. Hope you all have a lovely fun time!

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  42. I hope this doesn’t come across as a bit nanny-ish, or a dampner, it really isn’t meant to. Here goes….All participants of the meet up I can see are getting very excited (and so they should) . However, this is an open blog and I would guess the ‘traffic’ will probably be extensive. (Those that look but are not registered) The world and his wife know what you are up to. Strangers may well want to join in. Some may be fun, some not so much. I’m probably being totally over the top about this, so I’ll just say be aware and stay safe……..otherwise have an absolutely fab day!

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    1. Maybe OTT, but sensible advice, nevertheless. Perhaps less identifying descriptions from now on !

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    2. Thank you BB. You are of course correct. I have already thought of what you warn us about. And I am prepared.
      But it is very thoughtful of you to think of us.
      We must all be on our guard and think about the occasional toxicity of our previous blog.

      I have been wondering if FOSO might take it upon himself to join us.

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    3. Thank you for your concern and timely reminder. I confess my sons were somewhat concerned when I told them about this. I too have prepared myself for the meet and possible mis-happenings. Fingers crossed!

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    4. Just back on WiFi and catching up. I agree, BB. I am getting a bit nervous after LJ mentioned the high profile of this thread. I am worried we won’t be sure whether someone is posing as...so I don’t think I will want to risk photos or sharing too much personal stuff in case I’m talking to someone who isn’t really...sorry that sounds paranoid but I know if I tell Mr S what I am up to he will be worried 😟.

      Nevertheless I will be there and trust it will be fun and not too scary.🤗

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    5. When did LJ mention a high profile Seasider ?
      I don't remember.

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    6. BB is a very sensible person as I know from personal experience when I was told -quite rightly -in no uncertain terms about something that I was petty about on the BBC blog.
      I think we must be on our guard.
      I also think that we only need to feel worried if we get more people turning up than we were expecting.
      I honestly think we would recognise an imposter.
      Some of us have feel that we got to know each other over several years.
      I keep thinking that I can't see why anybody would want to infiltrate our meeting.
      Maybe it was my fault for joking about the film and who will play us.
      Sorry about that.
      Just think of those millions of people who meet perfect strangers who they have met on the Internet.
      Several of my friends think it is a great idea.
      Let us hope that it turns out to be just that.

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  43. We might all find each other boring in the flesh.

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  44. Don't think so somehow,Mrs P but we will soon know!

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  45. Have an enjoyable meet everyone. Whilst I am sure everyone is aware of the pitfalls, you are all meeting in a very safe an open forum, so don't let your concerns ruin the meeting. Looking forward to hearing all about it and to us meeting in the north east next year

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  46. I perceive the ATAC as an adventure and am envious I can't be there.
    I agree Lanjan, what are the dangers of a stranger listening into a group having coffee in a railway station? You are all, I suppose, strangers to each other until introductions have been made.
    Do enjoy the day.

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  47. Thank you all for your good wishes.
    I'm sure all will be ok.
    And enjoyable.

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    1. I echo that.you're all encouraging & we will sense your presence, I reckon !

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  48. Safe journeys everyone! Your meet up has come around so quickly...those of us not joining you will be with you in spirit and agog to “read all about it” (as the newspaper sellers use to cry out.)
    ☕️ 🍴 🥄 🍵 🎉

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  49. I’m on the train heading for the big smoke and our meeting. 😊🎉🎉🎉

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  50. Decision made. Will be getting the 05.40 from Glasgow Central to London Euston and will amble up to Waterloo from there. In total it will be over 11 hours of travel just to meet strangers for a cup of tea - what's not to love about that...?

    See you soon!!!

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    1. What an adventurous spirit, GG ! Dead impressed. Look forward to seeing you amble forth....

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    2. Oh wow GG this is fab news. One man in a gaggle of women. How brave.

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    3. As long ad it is only a cup of tea, you don't want another massive hangover !!!

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    4. I think we ALL know that when I say tea I mean wine...

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  51. Have wonderful day tomorrow and I am looking forward to hearing all about it.

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    1. 9 if Bootgums has time/finds us at some point.
      Gary, how about tea first, morphing into wine at the lunch/snack stage ?

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    2. My train back isn't til 19.30 so I have plenty of time for plenty of everything...!

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  54. Well I am ever so jealous I will not be there for this big meet. Glad that GG was able to free up some funds and time. Have fun!

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  55. Enjoy Everyone😀😀😀
    Have a lovely "meet up".
    I will be waiting, in eager anticipation, to hear about so many "friends" with the well loved common TA bond, react to each other.
    Am sure you all will have a great time, on this the first of many, get-togethers.

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  56. GG Well Done to You.
    Admire your lengthy travel plans. I almost feel guilty for not joining in.
    Perhaps next time.

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  57. Have a great time everyone. I'm looking forward to reading all about it on here.

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  58. Tomorrow.

    Percy cat has damaged his leg today
    I don't know how or how much pain he is in.
    He is limping badly but is still eating.
    It is always difficult to get an early appointment with the vet but hopefully I will get one that isn't too late and all being well depending on what the vet has to say I still hope to arrive at some time .
    If I can .
    I will post a comment when I know more.

    If I don't make it we will have to meet up sometime as I have some poppy seeds for you.
    I don't think there would be any way of posting a comment to you .
    What is the latest time one of you is likely to read this blog?
    Also if I don't make it ,have a great time everyone.

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  59. Lan Jan, I have been without WiFi this week and a bit distracted, but I loved your film thread, and Olivia Coleman will do very nicely.

    I drove back south today to make sure I can be there. Good journeys everyone and see you all tomorrow.🤗

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    1. Oh, Lan Jan we must have been posting at the same time. So sorry to hear this and I really hope Percy is alright and you can make it. I will be reading until about 10.45.

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    2. 10.45 in the morning of course.

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  60. GG fantastic news for tomorrow’s group! Ruthy you must be bursting with pride that your offer to provide a blog for us has led to this as well as your meet up with ptby. So glad that happened a personally delivered thank you on behalf of us all....

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  61. That is good ,Seasider..
    Will try to get a comment in before then.
    GG ,that is great news.
    I love the journey from the north to London by train.
    I imagine it is the West coast line of you are arriving at Euston.

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    1. Do hope you can make it, Lanjan ( bad timing, Percy old chap) You know where we'll be, after the clock check in.
      Good luck with the vet.

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  62. At this stage I'm no longer sure that I'll be able to come after all: difficult weekend and have finished up with cough and sore throat, courtesy of Mr S. Have dosed myself up and seemed a lot better this evening - I'll have to wait and see how I feel in the morning, and if the weather is conducive to a walk across the park to catch the bus to the station!

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    1. Hopefully a lovely sleep will see you feeling much better in the morning Sarnia...

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    2. Very pleased to hear that GG is to join us, and coming down on the train from Scotland. We should be flattered. Hope you can work on the train GG or have good conversations.

      Very sorry to hear about Percy LJ. I shall be looking in until about 9.45.
      Getting the bus in to Waterloo. Watching my wonderful home city as I travel.
      And I do hope you can make it LJ.
      If you don't manage it, I could reserve Wednesday morning to meet up in Putney.

      Sarnia, I hope you feel up to meeting us tomorrow, but save your energy if not.
      We must hope tomorrow will be repeated sometime.

      I didn't leave home till four o'clock today. A bad night and couldn't bring myself round so was very slow. Consequently missed the Bath family and G daughters tea, but hope to see her later in the week.
      A very slow but safe drive to London, and a quiet supper with daughter and
      SinL.

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    3. Thank you both. That's very sweet of you GG, but it was not a good night: see entry below.

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  63. LanJan - I will take my IPad with me tomorrow and we shall be able to talk with you when we are in Benuga, if you are unable to join us.

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  64. Sorry - as suspected, the chesty cough has morphed into bronchitis overnight, so I'm afraid I won't be going anywhere.

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    1. So sorry to hear that Sarnia, after you managed to change your appointment. Keep warm, and I am sure we will be with you in spirit, as with all our bloggers. 🤗

      Ruthy you are a star.

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    2. That appointment will now have to be cancelled!

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    3. So sorry Sarnia, keep warm and be looked after.
      Hope the next appointment is not too far in the future.
      And keep us informed of how you are.

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    4. Very sorry, Sarnia. What a shame. Do hope the bronchitis doesn't take too long to clear.

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    5. I'm sorry too Sarnia.
      Hope your bronchitis clears up soon

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    6. Oh no. 1 down. Get sat down with your feet up Sarnia and a nice hot drink. Get well soon. You’ll be missed.

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  65. Percy update

    Last night my Dr son from Canada 'phoned.
    He said that since Percy damaged his leg in the house,that there appears to be no serious injury ,that he isn't crying out in pain and is eating as normal and acting as he normally does it would be better to give him a day to see if he has just banged his leg .
    He reckons if we took him to the vet today it is what he would say and we will not have to pay the consultation fee.
    Percy and Poppy are both fast asleep now.
    I am therefore going to do as he suggests and will shortly be leaving to catch the train.
    Thanks Mrs P for your suggestion .
    That was a kind thought.

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    Replies
    1. Woo hoo. So only 1 down and not 2.
      Great news Lanjan. Hope Percy recovers soon. It’s terribly worrying when your pet is not 100%.
      See you soon!!

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    2. Well done, Dr. son, & sleep well, Percy !

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    3. Excellent news Lan Jan. Hope his rest sorts him out.

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  66. My morning activity finished unexpectedly early, so I'm on my way to London now. I think I will arrive at Waterloo about 11.45-11.50, so will go to Benugo's, wearing red beret and carrying passport. It's not in the name of Bootgums though.

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  67. I can hear your chatter from here 👏🏻🍷🤗

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    Replies
    1. Lady R - which part of the country are you in?

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    2. Hampshire Ruthy - about 50 miles by rail direct to Waterloo, but I have good hearing and an even better imagination 😂

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  68. Oh how fun!

    Sarnia - sorry to hear you have bronchitis. When younger I used to get bronchitis a lot - my doctor's advise was to get into warm hot sun. If that is out of the question - hot drinks and stay warm. Good luck with your recovery.

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  69. There should definitely be a movie about this - at least a short film. Incredible. The BBC should know about this!

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  70. It was wonderful.
    Loved it.
    Everybody looked like I imagined but even better looking.
    Apart from Bootgums who had another Appointment I was the first to leave -nearly three and a half hours after we met.
    No awkward silences.
    Perfect
    Thank you ladies and lovely Gary.

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  71. Sorry ,meant to say thank you so much to Ruthy without whom we would never have been able to have the meeting.

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  72. We were posting at the same time,Ruthy and when I read through my message I realised I had neglected to mention my thanks you with which I meant to start
    My train was cancelled and I arrived two minutes late but it was not too difficult to work out who was who .
    Before someone else tells you ,it was me who suggested to the young man sitting alone at the large table that unless he wanted to listen to people. talking about The Archers he might like to move elsewhere.
    I promise you that I was polite and he moved with a smile.
    Also St Mungo's charity has benefitted because Carolyn paid for the drinks so we paid up later and when she had taken out what we owed her ,there was £6 over.

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    Replies
    1. Take her word for it, folks, didn't hear the exchange, but it's true, he did depart with a smile, so guess she didn't just say, 'P--- off'.

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  73. So.., fab time. Discuss later as I’m busy drinking my second cocktail in the Connaught.

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    Replies
    1. Cheers, PtbY ! ( Had 2 glasses of white on returning home + Mr C got dinner....super day all round...)

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  74. Left shortly after Lanjan, & can endorse all she says ( perhaps Mrs P., Gary, Seasider, PtbY, Spicy are still there nattering ...)
    It was a meeting full of goodwill, good humour, & non stop talk. Just as Stasia & Mrs P. reported about their meeting, minimal chat about the Archers, but much about ourselves, our animals - all sorts of stuff.
    Gary said more than once he was tired, but it didn't stop him being great company - in fact everyone was good value ! It was energising & so interesting. Pretty sure the others will agree it was great to meet & we would like to do it again. The Northeast idea gathers momentum, encouraged by PtbY & Seasider, of course.
    There was an easy rapport, already the online familiarity, which made for a level of trust not possible amongst complete strangers. Really special. Best shut up now, except to say a huge thank you to Ruthy, who's made this forum for all of us, & enabled today's event.

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  75. The Waterloo Clock meeting, sounds so memorable
    Glad that it all went as well, as anticipated.
    Now when posting, many will actually know, the other posters personally, which will be lovely.
    Glad it was so sucessful + enjoyable.

    Miriam xxx

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  76. Apropos of an address you mentioned this morning,Bootgums.
    My sister reminded me that the reason the name rang a bell was that my mother lived at no 56 before she moved to a Nursing Home about 16 years ago.
    Small world

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    Replies
    1. Oh my goodness, that's amazing. It would have been about 18 years ago that my sister moved to no. 35.

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  77. Thanks all for a lovely day. It was great to meet you and so relaxing. As Carolyn says we aren’t strangers, so it was easy to continue our conversations at an alternative venue. Looking forward to the next time, which could be in York next year, so anyone who fancies a jaunt to Yorkshire, see you there.

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  78. A lovely day amongst friends. Thank you to everybody.
    Gary and I walked to Marelebone and then I set him in the right direction with instructions to Euston. I hope he is on the train to Glasgow now.

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  79. What a lovely time I had at Waterloo. I’m not very good at meeting new people usually but everyone made it so easy and enjoyable. You are all fantastic people. As Carolyn says, very little archers talk, didn’t have time really as we were too busy discussing normal life and families etc.
    I now feel lucky that I’ve done archers USA and archers London. Now all we need is yorkshire archers and I’ll have done a hat trick. 😉

    Hope Gary has a safe journey back...what a star to come all that way for a drink with a gaggle of women.....and I’m heading back tomoz.

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  80. Great to hear that your meet up went so well

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  81. Bootgums ....I’m sorry you couldn’t stay very long. You’d gone when I got back from the loo before I could have a chat with you.
    Next time..... hopefully we’ll get to have a chat.

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  82. All because of you Ruthy. What a star 🌟

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  83. Just about to head off to bed absolutely exhausted but wanted to add it was a wonderful day and I vote we make it an annual event. Lovely to meet people who I felt were acquaintances but now know as friends.
    Nightmare journey home (2 and half hours for a 70 minute journey, extra stop when they turned us off the very late train and we had to wait for the next one. Might as well have stayed with my friends another half hour!) and yes did get a penalty notice on my car but will appeal tomorrow (without much hope ! :( ) considering a BR staff member said it would be okay where I left it! But it was worth it, loved every minute!!!
    Cubs tonight Burgers and fries, pancakes and blueberries with maple syrup all got done in a fashion. Took nearly an hour clearing up then agreeing who was going to do what next Monday!
    Will sleep well tonight.
    Hope everyone has/had safe journey home. Will catch up listening tomorrow morning.!

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    Replies
    1. Agh !
      So sorry Spiceycushion, not a good end to your afternoon and guess your cub preparation pushed into a much shorter period.
      When you read this in the morning I hope you will have had a good sleep.

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  84. So glad to meet you all, and sorry I couldn't be there for long. You know how it is: you spend ages in total control of your own time, and then three events come along on the same day. Special appreciation to Gary, who came so far, and provided the funniest moment, of the time I was there at least, by recruiting a fortuitous drunk as his unwitting straight man (if that's the appropriate term).

    We must definitely do it again.

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  85. Home sweet home!

    Exhaustipated, so will post my proper thanks to everyone tomorrow....

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  86. So glad the meet-up was a success and nothing untoward spoilt the day. Perfect!☺

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  87. I'm delighted you had a successful meeting and hope for more in the future. Thanks to Ruthy for making it possible.

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  88. Bootgums,
    Mum's surname was Bolton.
    Her flat backed onto the bowling green.

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  89. Just to add, before I migrate to the Archers blog now. I walked into my sitting room after Cubs,to find youngest son and his girlfriend and put up the Christmas tree! They had left me to add my two new decorations (I try to get one or two 'meaningful' decorations every year.) This year the two newly added ones are: an embroidered golf thread material copy of Westminster Abbey (which I first visited this year on my 70th birthday) and a china globe shaped one from my daughter, brought back from Australia by my sister when she visited. It is cream coloured with hand painted kookaburras on it!

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    Replies
    1. Corrections! Of course .... they 'had' put up the Christmas tree and the decoration is 'gold' thread!
      Glad Percy is okay LanJan. Do you have pet insurance?
      Gary I just love the word 'exhaustipated!' Definitely how I was last night and slightly this morning.
      MrsP Woke a couple of times in the night with sore legs and have decided not to do much today, although I have a Scouters' meeting tonight. I'll get the whole day indoors tomorrow as the pupil usually have Weds is singing with her school choir in Rochester Cathedral.

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  90. Spicy that’s lovely. I admire your energy feeding all those cubs. I got around to TA about 9 last night and when Lily sighed and the end music began I realised I had slept through most of it. I just listened again.

    Lan Jan, how is Percy this morning?

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    Replies
    1. Yes, is he still limping ?
      Did listen last night, but still to catch up Sunday, though by comments at Waterloo, haven't missed much...

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  91. Thanks for asking,Seasider
    Update on Percy

    Decided to take him to the vet this morning as he was still limping.The vet put him on the floor twice and each time the litter beggar walked normally before he jumped up onto the bench.
    According to the vet the animals are under stress when seeing a vet so pretend they are OK because in the wild any injured animal is easy prey so they pretend to be OK .
    Anyway he thinks there isn't any problem and has given him some stuff to put on his food.
    £68 later (the Consultion fee was £39.50 and that was with 10% pensioner discount ) we are back home and Percy is walking normally.
    I worked out once that I thought vets charged £2 a minute for Consultations which made me decide that I would keep quiet and not say anything as it would add to the cost but of course that didn't happen.

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  92. Attention seeking? Wanted to be in on the meet up. Glad he is OK anyhow. Pity you can’t give him the bill for the vet.

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  93. It sounds as if you all had a wonderful time, with no gate-crashers either, despite all the dire warnings. Do, please, make it an annual event, and I'll just have to go on guarding my anonymous mystique for another year.

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  94. Under the clock at Waterloo they met
    Then to Beluga café they did go
    It was the first time they'd met up and yet .
    The folk who saw them there would never know
    Not only did they talk without a pause
    They gave some money to a worthy Cause.
    There'll be more "Meets "of that you can be sure
    So thank you Ruthy as wev'e said before

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    Replies
    1. Well done LJ I am glad we brought out your muse.

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    2. Cheers to you, Lanjan ! I speak not idly, raising a glass of white !

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    3. We are not great wine drinkers but how I wish I had a bottle of red wine now.
      I could really do with a glass.

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  95. To answer your question ,Spicycushion.yes we do have pet insurance but we have to pay the first£120 or the cost is prohibitive with two cats(males cost more than females)
    Also you can't claim for Consultations and if you make a claim the price goes up dramatically.
    To be honest the only reason we have it is if one or both of them gets a serious illness or has an accident which we obviously hope will never happen.
    We had our cat up north for 17 years and it went to the vet's once a year and that was that.
    Percy is running about like a young un now!
    .



    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I think vets should issue Tokens like book tokens etc.
      Far better for an old person to be given money off a vets bill than get even more talcum powder or bath salts!

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    2. I am very pleased to be able to say that I have never been given bath salts or talcum powder.

      But I do think your voucher idea for vets is a brilliant idea LJ.

      And your rhyme is very very good.

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  96. Well, Percy seems to be in the pink. How are you, Sarnia?

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    Replies
    1. Bootgums, you will find the answer to that on the off topic blog, where Mrs P asked Sarnia how she was. Not well, hopefully improving through the week.
      What a day you had ! Hope the book launch was fun.

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  97. This post is getting very long - Waterlooers - please let me know if you would like a Waterloo part 2 post :)

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  98. I’m happy to leave it at that but others may feel differently. Thanks again Ruthy.

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    Replies
    1. Happy likewise, Ruthy. ( if we want to impart anything else about yesterday, we can use the off topic, can't we ? It's not as if we need to discuss timings etc. now!

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    2. Yes I had thought we could close now and join up with all our other unmet friends!
      Until next year! :)))

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  99. Thank you all for a truly ridiculous day! Special thanks to Mrs P for my break-neck tour of Fitzrovia and tales of Quentin Crisp & Fenella Feilding... Anyone who has my email address is more than welcome to pass it on to the others...

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  100. I have enjoyed reading all your lovely comments about your "meet up" and Well Done you all.
    It sounds like a true of friends even though have never met each other before.
    It must be strange "talking" to each other, knowing what you all look like and are now no longer have just a virtual/minds-eye image.

    I am North West, but might be able to make a North East "meet up".

    Miriam xx

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    Replies
    1. should read....
      "sounds like a true catch-up of friends, even though"....
      Sorry, mind going faster than typing.

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