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"longer off topic comments" - Episode 44 Life Outside Ambridge
"longer off topic comments" - Episode 44 Life Outside Ambridge
Ruby throated hummingbird
Life outside Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments' - Episode 8 Life Outside Ambridge Beach Chairs
Put out my hummingbird feeder this weekend. Waiting for my pair To appear. Keeping my fingers crossed that they will make the journey back to the northeast.
ReplyDeleteWhere do they go to Ruthy?
DeleteHow wonderful to have humming birds in your garden Ruthy. They sound and look very exotic to me.
ReplyDeleteFingers crossed - they're lovely!
ReplyDeleteDevastated to hear of the news of Notre Dame Parsley 16.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear though that someone has given a large gift to start the re building programme. I hope it is possible to restore at least some.
I once took a photograph of a humming bird at Kirstenbosch Gardens inear Capetown with my very cheap camera.
ReplyDeleteI was so proud of it that I actually paid to enter it into a photographic competition at Wisley.
I was amazed when it didn’t get a mention!
Heartbreaking news about Notre Dame. The stained glass was magnificent. We have visited many times and one Sunday went to mass, it was like mingling with the Ancien Regime.
ReplyDeleteAn architect on the news said it could take up to ten years to restore.
Dreadful news for Paris and France in General.
ReplyDeleteI went to Paris twice in the late 60s never since.
I remember clearly the stained glass windows and husband taking photographs, but cannot even remember the impression of ND itself beyond the glorious windows.
Strange since I can remember the impression of churches in Spain and elsewhere.
What I question is the safety checks - daily- of the building works when restoring or refurbishing these precious buildings.
Too many ' accidents '
Glasgow School of Art, Notre Dame, something in Manchester or Birmingham ? recently.
Why ?
The stained glass was really beautiful. The organ, dating back several centuries, was more or less lost (as far as I can discover)
ReplyDeleteHad a WhatsApp message from the daughter in law this morning - she is devastated about Notre Dame too, even though so far away at present. She reminded me that distances in France were often given as ‘kilometres from Notre Dame’, just as we might say how many miles to London.
ReplyDeleteNotre Dame is an iconic building for the French and so steeped in its history.
Let’s hope all the huge donations pouring in can help restore it to its former glory.
My ex- collègue prof de l'orgue has been in touch with the technician responsible for the grands orgues de ND, according to him the grand organ at the W end was protected by being under the canopy between the two towers, VISIBLY not much damage, pipework intact, but subject to close inspection.
ReplyDeleteApparently much other priceless Art lost, as well as a medieval roof.
DeleteAccording to the spokesperson of ND, the médiéval stained glass of the 3 rose windows is intact.
DeleteThe médiéval roof 'la forêt' was magnificent, a tragic loss .
Hour news special this lunchtime consacré à Notre Dame - Michel Izard who does regular reports from around the regions had been there filming last Wed on the progress of the renovations - up in the roof, fantastic to see, great detail of the structure supporting the spire. All gone now.
Delete& I misquoted earlier - the organ is in the N transept under the rose window, protected from water by the stone walkways above. Some parts date from C16. The choir organ (C19) suffered much worse damage.
There was a human chain taking out many works of art & religious relics, now stored at the Hôtel de Ville.
GG - most birds migrate south where the weather is warm and for food source. We do have some winter birds but very sparse.
ReplyDeleteAdding my comments in regard to fire at Notre Dame - we all live far away and feel the sadness of the fire that destroyed so much BUT it will get rebuild! I have fond memories of visiting almost 15 years ago. Where does the time go?
I was so very saddened when seeing the news + footage of Notre Dame on both TV and on-line today. A lot of the artefacts seem to have been saved and some of the stained glass is still intact, which is better than expected.
ReplyDeleteI have to put this fire into context though, and I know I will be shot down in flames as to my next comment.
Watching the footage, I was reminded so much of both 9/11 and the Grenfall Tower tragedy, when so many innocent people lost their lives.
I understand exactly what you mean Miriam and said as much myself to Mr R yesterday. and when the spire fell it was particularly sad and bought back a vivid vision of the twin towers falling (which has to be worse really because of the terrible terrible loss of life and of course Grenfall Tower too.
Delete...also yesterday was the 30th anniversary of the Hillborough tragedy, when 96 lives were lost, something I also remember vividly.
DeleteRuthy.
ReplyDeleteI so hope your hummigbirds return to your 5* feeder.
What do you put out for them?
I have seen these lovely birds in various places in this world of ours, so I envy you having them in your back garden.
I am enjoying my resident robin and the many blackbirds, who for some reason, love my garden but not sure why.
Sadly this year I have no thrushs.
DeleteI first visited Notre Dame when I was 16 on an exchange visit to Paris and have been several times since. I must admit to a certain ambivalence to these places. I can appreciate the artistry, craftsmanship and symbolism of the buildings but can't help thinking about the corruption that funded the money that has been poured into them when the people lived in such dire poverty. This struck me most when visiting St Peter's in Rome.
ReplyDelete👍
DeleteI think the excuse is that at least the people have access to magnificence in their deprivation but don’t buy it myself! I don’t know what the answer is to the contrast between rich and poor. Taxation should redistribute wealth but all to often rich individuals and large businesses wriggle out of paying.
ReplyDeleteOn another subject, the bus driver involved in Sunday’s accident is doing well in hospital. Buses have numerous cctv cameras so no difficulty in finding out the circumstances and cause. It happened at a blind junction and people have been lobbying for improvements for years. A petition for traffic lights there started shortly after the incident and drew 2000 signatures on the same day. Sad that something like this has to happen before action is taken. The council are saying there will have to be a full investigation before they act so still dragging their heels!
It’s always the same Ev. I have been very actively campaigning for a speed limit on the road outside my cottage. It has unfortunately become a rat run for drivers going to and from Basingstoke who don’t want to bother going on the motorway. There have been numerous accidents over the years including one death and one night a car lost control and crashed into the side of our cottage having demolished our fence, some trees and the greenhouse and killed the wheelie bin!
ReplyDeleteThe parish, borough and county councils all agree a speed limit is needed but the Highways Authority (because it is an A road) say more deaths will have to happen before they will agree to one.
Consequently we, and our neighbours, emerge from our driveways onto the road with fear and trepidation. No pavement or lighting make it virtually impossible to walk or even cycle along the road without grave danger.
How many more deaths will it take to get even a 50mph limit I wonder?
I feel for you Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteSimilar situation here and I have been the Chair of our Road Safety Group for the last year, and doing my best to keep two sparring men apart from each other's throats on top of dealing with police issues and Parish Council politics.
I am about to resign.
Not prepared to try any longer.
We have 20/30/40 limits. But many exceed them despite our ANPR cameras, and each year a number of cows are killed. Often the night of MarkingDay itself.
Just think, sometime in the future many humans will have some form of individual self propelled form of transport, and no more cars.
Then they will be complaining that others are bumping into them, 'cos it's 'never' their fault, is it !
Hope things are improving for you Janice.
ReplyDeleteHope your daughter has found you some good books to read.
Have you thought of re reading books which you enjoyed when you were younger like Heidi,Anne of Green Gables,A little Princess, The Secret Garden ?.....,,,or even books that perhaps your children read like Carrie’s War and Tom’s Midnight Garden?
I did that recently.
No sordid sex,no bad language and a happy ending.
I took my elder grandson to The Library Theatre in Manchester to see Tom’s Midnight Garden when he was about 20 years old.
There was no scenery but we were both spell bound.
It was just before Christmas and when it had finished we went outside to the Christmas Market where because there was nobody to tell us what to do we could buy exactly what we wanted .
Pure magic.
My grandson was ten years old ,not twenty!
DeleteYes Lanjan, I do like a happy ending and will quite often check the ending before deciding whether to read a book! I have resigned myself to leading a very quiet life for the time being and making the best of things. I loved Wind in the Willows as a child so will reread that, and will follow up Spicycushion's suggestion of trying Susanna Gregory. I like Sansom's Tudor Shardlake series and think S. G. might be similar. Apparently listening to classical music is supposed to help healing and so I'm about to educate myself into something other than folk music. I guess we can still always learn new things even if stuck in a chair. Had a really nice day yesterday sitting in the sunshine watching the birds at the feeder and the antics of a squirrel! I don't know if it's a result of the medications, or of having been ill, but it's as if my mind has slowed down and I am seeing things really clearly. Every new bud on the copper beach looks stunning. It's good to be still alive.
DeleteThe Little White Horse, The Dean's Watch, by Elizabeth Goudge?
DeleteRead the ending first 😱😱😱😱 Janice - oh no!
DeleteI do the same !!
DeleteMrs P. I shall take inspiration from the fact that you have survived health setbacks.
ReplyDeleteAlso wanted to tell you that several people up in Harrowbarrow village have seen a black puma recently. The police have taken plaster casts of 5 inch paw prints from a garden after a labrador was attacked, but fortunately not killed. Several cats have gone missing though. Harrowbarrow is in between Bodmin moor and Dartmoor. Don't know what their range is. I am surprised it hasn't stayed on the moorland but perhaps it travels from one to the other. And am I able to get up there to see it, noooo! Drat!
Good morning Janice, I hope you might be sitting in the garden again today. Thinking of you listening to classic FM and watching the birds.
DeleteI would endorse LJ s advice to re read your favourite books from your childhood. As a result of doing this, I have collected many of the Anne books, but not the full set. Somehow they take the edge and frustration off being inactive.
And as has been shown we are all thinking of you.
My slowing down was subtle between 18 and 24 then after the birth of my first hit me like a sledgehammer.
This was in the mid sixties when medication was unlike now, and needing to come to terms with being medicated for the rest of my life was for me an absolute horror.
But now fifty five years later I see it as a blessing because it prepared me for the rest that was to come throughout my life. And boy have I grown through having to contend with it all. And of course that superior person that I was has been left well in the past.
Your friend has gone, but you can still talk to her in your thoughts. You can probably hear her answers too.
Excellent news that the police are taking the Big Cat sighting seriously.
I am no good at giving links, but I had an email from Rick Minter yesterday giving a link to an interview with him in the Guardian or Observer Weekend.
Something else to do while you sit in the sunshine ?
Take care Janice.
Miriam - just catching up with your question on hummingbird feeder. I make a nectar which is just a concentrated sugar water - 1 part sugar, 4 parts water. The nectar is poured into a container that is attached to a covered dish at the bottom with small openings that the birds can lap up the nectar with their long tongues. The birds haven't appeared yet, so still have my fingers crossed.
ReplyDeleteI so hope they do and am I looking forward to hearing about their return. Keep us informed.
DeleteJanice - adding my well wishes for you!
ReplyDeleteJanice. A major medical event, whatever it is, always makes one see and understand things, so very differently.
ReplyDeleteJust enjoy the lovely weather which is forecast for this weekend, and do what you have been told. It might be frustrating now, but the benefits will far surpass this later on.
I wish you, and all others, well.
I did a big supermarket shop today, so am well stocked for a while.
ReplyDeleteI was surprised how quiet it was, but schools are now not on holiday, well in England, Wales is different.
A day of gardening tomorrow, then day out on Friday, meeting up with another niece who lives in London. I haven't seen her since August last year, so excited to catch up. I have bought her an Easter Egg, but it was difficult to find, as she has to have gluten- + lactose- free foods. It is from an organic farm based in Dorset, so 🤞it tastes OK.
Her Mum ( my big sis) is a chocaholic, who hides her chocolate store behind tea-towels in a cupboard. So she has organic Cornish Gin Fudge!
PS Caught up with a recorded Escape to the Country from Tues. 16th April. which showed Milk Vodka. It looked a very complicated procedure, and I don't think that Toby can do the same with his Milk Gin.
Miriam - I gave to google mike vodka or gin. Never herd about it until TA.
DeleteTime for sleep - too many spelling errors.
DeleteI watched Doctors again today, whilst having a late lunch.
ReplyDeleteI found the topic about DWUP payments, very interesting and poignant.
I hope I am not to become addicted.
Been hearing nightingales down the lane the last few days ... lovely.
ReplyDeleteI have had a perfect gardening day, as so warm but no direct sun. It is all looking so much better, but still so much more to do. It's like a house/home -
ReplyDeletedo one job then realise that there are least another 2 or 3 needed. Still, it keeps me fit + active.
Now "Good Friday".
ReplyDeleteI have had a wonderful day with a niece from London who I haven't seen since August last year, niece with her kids, big Sis and Hubbie No#2 and her Hubbie No#1 with his new partner. It gets so complicated to try + explain who is who.
As usual, it was croquet on the lawn again, (not mine as miniscule), and as usual I came last.
Note to self, it is only Friday not Saturaday, and have just realised there is TA tonight.
I celebrate both Passover and Easter (I think Archerphile - as you). Have two very different celebrations, Passover on Saturday and Easter on Sunday. Sadly this morning went to a memorial service for a woman in her 40's. Took the train into Manhattan, but part of the trip was a cross-town walk through Central Park and good early summer weather today. Finishing work doing it remotely from home so in 3 hours, will be enjoying the weekend. Have a good Holiday for everyone who will be celebrating this weekend.
ReplyDeleteHappy Holiday
DeleteBacalhau de Gomes de Sa this evening, suitable G Friday fare - delicious!
ReplyDeleteLooked this up - delicious indeed! We cooked a large pot of chowder, with cod, salmon, prawns and a liberal sprinkling of parsley. It’s become a Good Friday tradition for us, and the only time Mr S is chief cook. I do have to do the chopping but as he’s done the washing up as well I am happy.
DeleteWe had cod, oven cooked with a cheese sauce containing prawns accompanied by new potatoes and fine green beans. Was tempted to have duck but somehow fish is the thing on Good Friday!
DeleteBuddy is eating again and Gypsy is in fine fettle. Lovely to have no problems with them both! This morning a Jack Russell we know and love got amorous with Gyp and she took no notice but strutted home! No damage done as they are both neutered! I remarked that we old girls still have sex appeal!
That's the way ! We have a Portuguese copine , very useful !
ReplyDeleteI had a MacDonalds whilst partially transferring my storage to a garage and will open a tin of soup this evening.
ReplyDeleteNobody to cook for me and I am not interested in doing it for myself.
I love cooking and feel positively twitchy if I have a left-overs day. I live alone and always over-cook, so my freezer is bursting, which is a shame because I don't enjoy the frozen meals as much as fresh, but I won't throw food away. Tonight I am having a baked potato/ coronation chicken/ salad. My dog has gone on holiday without me, (back tomorrow), so have had time to turn my compost, plant veg seeds and creosote 1 fence - 3 left to do. Very hot here today. I am also tidying out a large cupboard and found a c.d. of photos that didn't belong to me, so had a quick look - found fantastic photos of me and 3 young-adult children, in Guernsey in 2010 - such lovely memories, such lovely children! Such hideous images of me.......
DeleteRonnie MacDonalds........ what's not to like 😋
DeleteAbout 10 inches of rain last night. Our nature preserve cannot take another ounce of water.
ReplyDeleteWe have had no real rain in Glasgow for weeks now - the soil is beginning to "crack" beside the canal! Have had to water the garden and pots and baskets sooooo much it's ALREADY starting to annoy me and it's still only April... Wonder if it will be a repeat of last year's bananas weather?
DeleteMy three water butts are all empty, that's never happened in April before.
DeleteStill no hummingbirds.
ReplyDelete🤞will return soon.
DeleteI am not religious, nor pretend to be so. I am though, of the generation when both Boxing Day + Good Friday were true Bank Holidays and so no shops were open.
ReplyDeleteSadly these are now just normal working days in the retail world.
I so feel for the very, many employees who have to work on these days. They do not get the valuable family time, which they so deserve.
Rant over.
Miriam, I completely agree. Whatever our faith, culture we all need to step out of the busyness and slow down sometimes for our wellbeing. I love the quiet on Christmas Day when the trains and buses hush, and as a child in a smallish village it was quiet on Good Friday as well. I was shocked when I moved to a town and found the shops open.
DeleteThere are some health topics which have not yet been mentioned in Ambridge.
ReplyDeletei) cholesterol levels
ii) obesity, be it in whatever age group
iii) diabetes 2 in the seniors.
I assume that all eat a very healthy diet, due to the massive organic + healthy, produce available in Ambridge, so perhaps these issues aren't an issue.
But who knows?
I have just seen a 16/17yr old lad, who lives around the corner with 2 of his friends, pass by and they are all looking "chunky". Don't appear as teens of that age should look.
I’m surprised there isn’t more type 2 diabetes, the amount of cake they all seem to eat!
Delete✔️🍰
DeleteAlso does anyone have a gluten- and/or lactose- intolerance? Would so love Susan (and Helen) trying to stock suitable products in the retail outlets, which also includes The Tea Room etc.
ReplyDeleteI mention this, as I was so delighted to find an Easter Egg with honeycomb chocs. inside, for a niece, who is just that both - gluten + lactose interolant. (Cost a lot though!).
DeleteMiriam you sound like a wonderful auntie, and I'm sure your niece will appreciate the efforts you have made find her a suitable egg.
ReplyDelete🍳
Easter Greetings on TA blog - did not check properly 🙄
ReplyDeleteThank you Lady R. Happy Easter 🐣. Blessings to all.🤗
DeleteI went to the seaside yesterday.
ReplyDeleteI have a 96 year old cousin in Burnham O S and visits must be short.
Dog experienced sand ( mud) and sea for the first time.
Only slightly perturbed by the tiny waves as the tide came in and eventually paddled along with mum.
And she met SO many dogs and was mostly friendly with them.
But this morning was very aggressive towards the next door dog that we share a path with.
Territory !
You are doing so well with Lady, as is Ev with Gypsy.
DeleteGypsy has her ups and downs but is currently walking well albeit slowly and with stops. I had to give in with overnight as when I had a few days away in February she started to wake at about 2 am and after going out would not settle and got quite distressed so we now let her and Buddy into the main bit of the bungalow having confined them previously in the sunroom. She sleeps either in the hall or by my bed and Buddy on Katy’s bed as he can jump up! Everyone is happy not least the humans as we get a decent night’s sleep!
DeleteOn another subject, after Mike passed away I joined the Townswomen’s Guild. Over the last year we have lost members through sickness mostly and we’re now hoping to recruit more through local magazines, flyers etc. I have found the monthly talks very interesting. Topics are wide and it has given greater understanding of local organisations etc. This month the subject was The Georgian Visitor to the IOW. They came over in fishing boats and had tours here. It had never occurred that tourism went back that far! TG got me out and about, meeting people and I now organise the speakers. If any of you are looking for outside interests please consider joining TG or the WI. We’re not as stuffy as we appear!
Mrs P really happy to hear all is going well with Lady! She obviously has settled in as she is being territorial! You have taken on a challenge as I did with blind Gypsy and hopefully we are both winning! Thank you, Miriam for your encouragement. It means a lot!
DeleteHappy Easter to one & all, & thanks to all the good wishes here ! Witnessed guests drifting outside in the grounds at Hatfield House today, so colourful ( I wanted to be asked in ..) at last saw The Favourite last night, 5 of us, 3 bemused, 2 of us deliciously entertained by early (18 cruelty, corruption & decadence....funny & sad. Ace performances & so cleverly realized.
ReplyDeleteYes agreed with your final sentence Carolyn.
DeleteBut count me in with the 'bemused'. However I was entertained.
Sri Lanka - another massive loss of innocent lives, which is so heartbreaking.
ReplyDeleteIndeed Miriam 😥
ReplyDeleteWhat do they hope to achieve? Tragic.
DeleteDeath toll soaring . Tragic . 😪
DeleteDid not know until quiz program we watched earlier that the smallest bird is a bee hummingbird native to Cuba. It must be really tiny as our native wren which is our smallest is very small!
ReplyDeleteAnother lovely day. Got to make the most of this weather. Been pottering in garden for last 3 days. Housework.....not done any 😱
ReplyDeleteReckon basket of ironing and the tumbleweed of dog hair can wait till the weather is back to normal.
I saw a Wren a day or so ago, which was the smallest I have ever seen. Minute !
ReplyDeleteI have also spent the weekend in the garden avoiding the bank holiday crowds. I've made quite a bit of progress although I do seem to have spent a lot of time watering. I noticed several red mason bees nesting in my bog garden which surprised me as I thought they preferred dry soil.
ReplyDeleteI, too, am gardening but not in my own but son's garden in Hattersheim. Raspberry canes and strawberry plants I planted last summer are at last beginning to grow. Mainly because I have been watering them for the past week. Cannot get through to son that plants need water.
ReplyDeleteWe went to garden centre on Wednesday and bought four rose bushes and a plum tree! It took ages for son to decide where to plant the plum and even then we had to moved the compost bin.
However we did get some nice compost from the bottom to enrich the 'herb garden' which is mainly dust with just mint and a four foot wide sage plant growing. I took out two types of mint last summer and planted in pots so am trying to eradicate it from the 12ft square plot laughingly called the herb garden!
We also bought 10 busy lizzies to hang on the fence in some colourful metal 'pails' I bought for son's birthday last year. (He did ask for garden related stuff and I could never afford personal stuff that he is able to buy!)
Only 'drawback' is the temperature is 26 degrees again today, third day running. Rain not expected until Friday.
Hope the weather in Blighty holds on for another week so I can get into my own garden when I fly back next Monday!
Happy gardening everyone!
Today's forecast said that the weather is due to change back to being cold again on Wednesday Spiceycushion.
DeleteSo be ready to make use of Tuesday.
I managed an hour in the garden as the sun went down last night.
I cannot afford to be out in full sun except in winter.
Off to walk the dog in woodland this afternoon, which will protect us both from the glaring heat.
Too hot for me and suffering like Lynda Snell, so only half an hour in garden today and yesterday at 7am. Gardeners would have come today to clear my rubble up north but I am in the wrong place. Can’t wait to get away from the heat and get on with the work.
DeleteI did enjoy seeing a lot of noisy young herons in the park early this morning. They were pecking their parents’ necks so either hungry or playful. Not sure.
sun/squally showers forecast here for the next few days - we need water.....
ReplyDeleteI have had high cloud, and a breeze today and no direct sun, and is still very breezy
ReplyDeleteReally warm though, so decided to sit in garden and finish the book I was reading.
This was The Moth Catcher by Anne Cleeves ( a Vera book).
I thoroughly enjoyed it and didn't guess the plot + baddie.
I am cooking a simple meal tonight - a chicken breast "en papillote" with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, sliced mushrooms with a touch of tyme + sage. Will be served with plain boiled pots, carrots, spring cabbage + cauliflower.
Quick + Simple, with very little washing up!!
Mmm, sounds delicious. Jersey Royals on the menu tonight, with pan fried salmon, parsley and broccoli.
DeleteWouldn’t a bloggers cook book be fun?
It would, with local recipes from bloggers who livr all around the UK and those who live farther afield.
DeleteIt would be an interesting mix of recipes - old, new, favourites, originatating from so many differing localities. I bet Ruthy has some wonderful recipes to share.
All have had a big scare + worries a few days ago.
ReplyDeleteMy niece who lives in OZ and due for a C-section on May 22nd (No#2 boy) suddenly started bleeding. She left work, travelled an hour by train, so could go to the hosp. where she is having all her care. On arrival, she was still bleeding and for over 30mins, babes hearbeat was missing.
Babe was lying in a curled up postion with arms over his chest, so blocking heart sounds. He then moved and kicked, so all was well. After many intensive scans etc. all is well and no immediate concern/worries/problems and bleeding stopped.
I think that C-section date will be brought forward, as babe is viable.
Oh how distressing. I do hope the rest of the pregnancy is without concern and baby arrives well.
DeleteA sign of the times. My young neighbours (in early 30's so young to me) are sitting on chairs in their garden, but they are not talking to each other. All they are doing are playing with their 'phones..
ReplyDeleteIs this what life has become?
Sadly yes Miriam. I feel really distressed when I see mums and dads pushing pushchairs and prams with their phones in front of them and not talking to their babies/toddlers! I fear that the number of hildren with anti-social problems and not being able to socialise will become even greater in ten or so year's time!
DeleteMiriam did you not tell us some time ago, that your neighbours do a great deal of loud arguing ?
DeleteIf so, then their silent use of phones must be a form of relief for you.
It’s my birthday today and have just been up to little Tesco to buy a vanilla pastry for breakfast. Am enjoying it now! Katy is back to work after Easter holiday and Buddy is grumpily asleep in the lounge. Gypsy is wandering around like a lost soul and even a piece of sausage and a 🥕 has not cheered her up! Oh well, they will settle back into the routine! It is cooler today but dry. Rain forecast tomorrow but it will be welcome for the garden. Back to birthday, I have the distinction of having been born on St George’s day in Scotland but appropriate as subsequently brought up in England. Happy St G’s day to all! We should make more fuss of it comes les autres!
ReplyDeleteBirthday greetings Ev and may you have many more.
DeleteThat should be commes les autres!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Ev.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your pastry and whatever else comes your way today.
St George's Day and Shakespeare's Birthday.
Happy birthday to you
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday to you
Happy birthday dear Ev
Happy birthday to you.
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Happy Birthday, Ev ! Can't unearth a remotely suitable emoji 😙😚 but here's hoping you continue to enjoy the special day 🤩
ReplyDeleteVery low mood today.
ReplyDeleteThe house I've yearned to live in has been sold.
But not to me, yet again.
Despite my assertion that I had no expectation that I would be in a position to buy it this time round, and my belief that if I didn't then the universe was telling me very clearly that it wasn't for me, I am deeply disappointed.
It will pass !
So Sorry Mrs P.
DeleteKeep looking, there may be something you like better when yours sells.
So tonight have a glass or two of sherry and drown your sorrows.
It is sad, but it is, what will be, will be.
DeleteThere will be something better destined for you both, which will capture your heart and will become your dream home.
There will be something else out there Mrs P! Is yours still on the market? When it sells you will be in a good position to go forward. I was told some years ago you can’t put in an offer until sale is agreed on yours. It’s all so frustrating at times. Our house in Ledbury took 18 months to sell and I so wish we had moved to the island sooner but it wasn’t to be. Every good wish and hope good news soon!
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear this, Mrs P, you wouldn't be human if you took the disappointment completely philosophically. Hope somewhere catches your interest, or that the preferred sale of first choice falls through...
DeleteOf course you feel disappointed Mrs P and I feel for you especially as it is the second time 😧
DeleteThinking of you and 🤞your mind will settle and you will make a decision that will work for you either way to stay or move!
Ev - Happy Birthday 🥳 and many of them! Without knowing it I have been celebrating on your behalf 😂
ReplyDeleteLunch at Watts Gallery at Compton - lovely homemade quiche followed by a visit to the wonderful Chapel, ride around the lanes to Manor farm tearoom at Seale - gorgeous scone and today jam and cream ! (Where we are right now) Have not spotted Fallon yet.
Mr R has done so well although his walking even with crutches is painful for him he carries on without complaint and as bright as a button and like me enjoys the food along the way.
Carry on enjoying your day!
I really should be more than my 9.50 stone may I remain lucky....
Sounds lovely 😊 It’s years since I was 9.5 stone! Well done, Mr R!
DeleteHappy Birthday Ev. I hope your day is pleasing to you.
ReplyDeleteMrs P. re my neighbours - they are all or nothing. They scream + shout at each other, or sit in opposite sides of the garden, totally ignoring each other! This is not my experience, nor my idea, of a loving relationship.
At one time today, I had a fledgling blackbird, a thrush + a sparrow, all with their Mums. It was like a Mother + Toddler group.
For those who like birds:-
Local news today, has shown wonderful CCTV footage of the nesting pair of Ospreys in Cumbria, who have 3 eggs in nest.
Their site is in a nature reserve, on top of a tree which is surrounded by dangerous peat bogs, so are safe from human interference, hopefully.
I would think the CCTV was set up in the winter, when the bog was frozen so could access the nest site. It is the 6/7th year that this pair of birds have returned + nested in the same
Deletetree. They have already produced 14 young ospreys over the years.
Mrs P - commiserations..
ReplyDeleteEv - félicitations !
Happy birthday Ev. A pastry for breakfast sounds delicious. 🍩🍮🍰🍾
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for all your birthday wishes. I have all your virtual cards on the mantelpiece!! 💕💕
ReplyDeleteHave had a nice day. Older brother on phone was saying his granddaughter said she has been “in a relationship with Billy, but it’s all over now”. She’s all of six years old! Younger brother sent chocs, a miniature rose and bottle of wine. Thanked him by text right away and got one back saying “quick, scoff the chocs and neck the wine before Katy comes home!” Tempting but already spoiled myself with that pastry for breakfast! We had a video of Freddie, the great grandson putting a screw in the hole and clapping himself! He is 18 months old and Great Grandad would have been proud of him as he was a practical man too!
ReplyDeleteI am so glad your Birthday has gone well, in spite of some sad memories.
Delete😍
Ev, many happy returns 🎂. Glad your day is going well.
ReplyDeleteMrs P, so sorry to hear about the house. I do hope new plans materialise, whatever they may be, that enable you to settle where you are or somewhere new.
I always believe that, as one door closes, another one opens. I hope this will be true for Mrs P. with a house move.
DeleteThe perfect + ideal home for me, has just gone on the market, not far from my present home. Sadly, I can't afford it, so a dream of mine, which won't come true. Still there is always the Lottery, perhaps I might be tempted to buy a ticket, something I never usually do. 🤣🤣
ReplyDeletePleased that you are enjoying a happy birthday,Ev.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice month in which to celebrate a birthday,
It is my favourite time of year,
Ev - peaking in the blog and would like to add my Birthday wish to you.
ReplyDeleteThank you all! Lan Jan yes April a good time of year. The pear and apple tree are in blossom, leaves appearing on the trees and the May flowers are out so we can cast a clout! Drizzly rain tonight which will be good for the garden. My courgettes are coming up having planted the seeds recently and the broad beans are in flower. Have had a lovely day!
ReplyDeleteI’ve got a date for my thyroid removal....May 22nd. So light at the end of the tunnel now.
ReplyDeleteHad a lovely pottering afternoon in the garden. Our cherry tree is in full blossom now so it’s bound to start to rain and be blustery imminently.
I was just thinking about that this morning. All the very best with the op and recovery afterwards.
DeleteI have some trees that were just coming out when I left North Yorkshire. Really sad I’m missing them. Will have to make sure I am there next year. Wonderful trees round here but the one in our garden died.
That is such good news PtbY.
DeleteI am very pleased for you.
My ex GP, lovely young woman and we are still friends though both away from alondon now, had hers removed.
She was/is one of the most vibrant people I know.
We will be with you all the way. And just a month to wait.
Great news P tb Y.
DeleteI am really pleased for you.
Excellent news P tobe Y.
DeleteNext time we meet, you will be able to eat cake !!!
.....& eating cake makes such a difference to the quality of life ! So glad that you have a date, PtbY, & hope that the recovery period, soreness, & being able to eat comfortably again, is relatively short.
DeleteI wanted that house and needed mine to be on the market.
ReplyDeleteI don't want to move just for the sake of it.
There is some interest in mine, but nothing definite so over the next few days I will need to make a decision to take it off the market.
Thanks for all the commiserations.
Sorry to hear that the house you wanted has been sold to somebody else.,Mrs P..
DeletePlease keep us posted regarding what you decide to do about selling your house.
As you say there is no point in moving just for the sake of it .
On the other hand perhaps the contract for”that “ house hasn’t been signed yet.
☹️ Mrs P (and agree with Lanjan's final comment)
DeleteMrs P maybe consider running with it and if you get a buyer you could then consider next step. No harm in looking around even though your dream house has gone but even that sale can fall through. It is trying though having people traipse through your home so you need to weigh it all up. I remember one couple who speculated as to whether they could fit a wood burner in our Ledbury house. It was a brand new house in 2000 and had two good sized radiators in the lounge and a gas fire we never had to use. A wood burner would have been totally unnecessary and now we are told they are pollutants! It is hard to have people remarking on the bits they don’t like. Best wishes whatever happens.
DeleteVery strict instructions by agent to be absent for viewings.
DeleteApparently " people aren't honest " if the vendor is present.
Wood burners have become very popular and they are not always required for heat, but rather for comfort.
I have not had one installed here Ev, but have left the liner that served the defunct back boiler in place, added a large slate hearth stone and had built an oak mantleshelf and put in place an antique range which can be removed and a wood burner installed in the future should I or anyone else wish to.
I dislike been shown round by the agent as I like to be able to ask questions as I go round, certainly not the same when told later .
DeleteI wonder in what way people aren't honest
PtbY 🤞all goes well.
ReplyDeleteAgree absolutely with carolyn ptby, very pleased for you!
ReplyDeleteHere's to 🍰🍰🍰 before too long 😀
PtbY - That is a big decision you have made and I am sending all the best wishes that it will all go well.
ReplyDeleteJoe has died.
ReplyDeleteHave just heard it. Now they will have to lay him at rest in the Archers. He was an excellent actor and we will miss his Farmers Lung cough cough! Sad for the cast.
DeleteI am in the middle of a thunderstorm. It is gloomy with torrenetial rain but garden needs it.
ReplyDeletePtbY.
ReplyDeleteThat is great news and only about 4 weeks away. Just enough time to get organised with meals + food into the freezer, getting all washing, ironing, housework + cleaning up to date, so will last for a few weeks after op, whilst in the recovery period. The time will pass by, far quicker than you think.
I had my thyroid removed about 18 months ago. I went in on the Monday morning at 6.30 and left the hospital on the Wednesday at midday. I have had no problems at all and was back to looking after myself straight away. I do have to remember my thyroid pill in the morning. And I do not have a scar.
DeleteAnd I hope you are continuing to feel ever stronger and ' calm ' ( ?) Gianna.
DeleteThanks I am lucky to have my family living nearby when many bloggers don't see the grandchildren for months. I've been through some trying times but I am now doing well.
DeleteI have seen the latest news "on-line" about Joe. Edward Kelsey was 88 and was under medical care, and as to when or if, he could record/broadcast.
ReplyDeleteAs I have said (on the other site), Joe did theoretically pass away at Grange Farm, which was his wish.
An Off/On topic.
ReplyDeleteNow Joe has gone, I realise all the far more interesting characters are seniors - Peggy, Bert, Jim, Lilian, Justin, Pat, Tony, Gill, Jennifer, Brian, Lynda, Robert etc.
Who will replace them? There are many candidates - David, Kenton, Shula, + partners, Lizzie, Adam + Ian, but none have a distinctive personality or character to be realistic replacements, let alone those who are even younger.
Changes need to be made and soon.
The only younger couple I like, are Fallon + Harrison, and possibly Chris with Alice.
Can't forget the wonderful Jazzer, who must remain in Ambridge, now he is a true character.
Forgot Susan + Neil - now they are true characters in so many ways eg Chilli Night.
DeleteJohnnie is quite interesting as you always know it is him with a distinctive voice. He could become a character! Jazzer is irreplaceable!
DeleteThank you all for your kind thoughts.
ReplyDeleteI have informed Mr PtbY to be prepared to get his nurses uniform on because I won’t be lifting a finger when I come out of hospital. We are going on holiday a week and a half later so I will not be doing anything to jeopardise that.
Miriam.....all that talk of housework and freezer meals has traumatised me!!!!! I might manage a gentle hoover beforehand. Lol.
PtbY - when I read Miriams message to you I laughed, imagining your horror at her suggestion.
DeleteThanks for a second laugh now, today, as you confirm my expectations.
My pleasure Mrs P.
DeleteI’m sorry to hear of your disappointment re the house. It’s awful when you’d set your heart on it for a second time.
Third time actually.
DeleteLong story. Too long !
PtbY. Best wishes for the op. Maybe on return you will have the stamina to undertake Miriam's housework chores. Or better still �� Relax with a book and get someone else to spring clean.��
ReplyDeleteI have had some good news today, as my 2nd cataract op. is going ahead in 3-4months time.
ReplyDeleteAs I live alone, it will be organised in the same way as the first, like a military operation!
Still, I had 2 weeks afterwards of not having to do many chores. It was bliss.
Interesting at hosp. today. The Dr. told me that vision etc. will still be changing, as after 5.5weeks, healing will not still be complete The eye sensitivity I am still experiencing etc. is normal, as the nerves in the eye, which were cut, take a while to return to normal.
DeleteAt least I know that all is as it should be.
Very interesting Miriam.
DeleteWish I had been told that as I did have strange visual changes and was told 'never heard of that before' - which did not help me at all.
You seem to have a very satisfactory relationship with your eye surgeon.
My experience of ' occultists ' in general since the age of eight, is that they seem to have no people skills whatsoever, and the one I had experience of at Kingston Hospital, where I had my cataracts done, didn't even vocalise.
Just grunted !
I have always seen a different Dr. but all have been very caring, understandful + helpful, along with the nurses and health care assistants. I was also told, by Dr. not to go to opticians just yet awhile as my vision is so good. It does need tweaking as not 100% perfect, but I was told to wait for at least another 3 weeks or even longer, before I go to opticians, but only then get a cheap pair of glasses, to help out short term and don't even consider new contacts until after 2nd op. as might not even be needed.
DeletePerhaps I have just been lucky, but as I have said before, I always have a list of questions, thoughts + concerns with me.
Been for a free hearing test today at boots. Bloke asked what had made me come to have a test?
ReplyDeleteI said....150 free boots advantage points!!
Might do the same!!
DeletePS I wonder if this counts for the Boots Club over 60's, 10x points (for own brands).
DeleteI went to Boots today. Bought one item at £1.50.
DeleteWas asked if I had a card, yes I replied, somewhere in an old purse, never remember though.
I didn't know there was an over 60s club, and I really only buy own brand stuff there.
Sign up via website. It is easy to do. I am still buying Boots Contact Lens solutions and use No.7 make-up. I save my points, and always use on Sancturary products, which I love, when are 3 for 2. I get a good supply totally free.
DeleteI used to test beauty products for Boots.
ReplyDeleteThe first lot I got were 3good sized body lotions.
Regarding points , I tend to buy their half price bargains at Christmas time and pay with points after that for as long as they last.
How did you get that job LJ ?
DeleteI wrote to them about a product ,Mrs P .
DeleteI remember saying something like.
“I really think I must have been out of my mind spending that amount of money on ............(I can’t remember what it was!)
They replied and asked me if I would like to test their beauty products.
I was in my 40s then but in my early 60s Boots decided that relatives of Boots’ staff should test them instead.
I
I buy my face cream and serums when they are on 3 for 2. Really good value then.
ReplyDeleteI used Cyclax ( as did HM ) when they existed, but have used Boots basic for the last two decades at least, and I too buy the 3 for 2 and stock up, usually. But I've run out of toner and as not on offer at the moment had to pay full price for one item.
ReplyDeleteI get Macushield at Boots on buy 2 get one free. It’s a supplement for the macular layer as I have macular dystrophy. It was recommended by specialist but not available on NHS. Diagnosed in 2002 but so far still have central vision, a bit of distortion and not good distance vision. Maybe the supplement is helping by keeping the macular healthy. As 3 months supply costs £45, the one free is good and fortunately I am able to afford the £90 outlay every 9 months but others can’t. Supplements are regularly on this offer.
ReplyDeleteWorth every penny for your eyes Ev even so possibly out of range for some even on the 3 for 2 offer. (Thankfully you can manage) and the supplement is doing a great job for you 🤗 👏🏻
ReplyDeleteBoots points are certainly worth having as are JL/ Waitrose. Sainsbury Nectar very poor in comparison imo.
I am not trying to teach my grandmother to suck eggs but if you think I am ,I apologise and please ignore.
ReplyDeleteRe face creams-Suggestionsfrom Granny Lan Jan
I was once told by someone in the Chemical Industry that it doesn’t matter what you put on your skin as long as you moisturise it.
When I was not at all well off in my 20s and 30s I used Johnson’s baby lotion .
Toner-rose water 60p then from Boots
(It is now mixed with glycerine and is a bit more expensive)
I love Origins and am pleased to be given it as a gift especially their serum .
Body Shop Vitamin C range is great too.
However if I am not going out I use coconut oil or baby bottom butter on my face and no make up.
At my advanced age I only use a light foundation and never powder.
Less is more as we get older.
Think on Nicola Sturgeon .
Agree LJ, about doesn't matter what, but moisturise. But would add toner as well.
DeleteWay way back I advocated men moisturise too. I believe it is now even full make up for men !
When at fourteen or so, I started using foundation, within months my face flared up in disagreement. Dr said, stop using that muck, I did, skin cleared up and I've never used makeup on skin since.
It's been au natural for several decades now, not a hint of anything other than daily skin care, and granddaughters were extolling grandmothers lovely skin recently and asking for guidance.
Without hair or visible eyebrows I do know that I could improve my appearance with even just the modicum of attention.
I have also with age become increasingly uncomfortable with artifice.
But I also feel very strongly about society today seeking perfection and so I am aware that I am quite deliberately flouting the perception of perfection.
Always a rebel, however subtle.
Granny Lan Jan, I'm afraid I use nothing, haven't worn make up since my mid 20s and then only occasionally. If my face is dry I might shove some coconut oil on, I.m wrinkled , but who cares, certainly not me.
ReplyDelete✔️✔️
DeleteMy grand nephew looked at me on Good Friday, and said "You're old as you have creases in your face".
DeleteI don't have wrinkles as such, I have just what I call smile + laughter lines.😁😁
How lovely Miriam 🥰
DeleteWhat an awful day. I was woken in the early hours by my side gate banging in the wind (forgot to fasten it closed).
ReplyDeleteOn finally getting up it was pouring with rain, strong winds, with the gate still banging. I dashed out, still in my nightdress, in wellie boots, and a hooded waterproof jacket, to fix it. I so needed my hot coffee after!
To think a week ago, I was wearing a short-sleeved T-shirt, lightweight summer trousers, sitting on a garden chair, reading a book in glorious sunshine. Now I am, back to a thick winter polo neck jumper, socks, fleecy slippers etc. I have resisted putting CH on again.
Hope you all have been safe + well.
As it was an inside day today, I did a necessary chore - I defrosted my freezer. This is a small upright one with drawers, which is in the understairs cupboard, and was quite iced up. It only took 2hrs to do.
DeleteOnce it was defrosted and back on again, I was then able to sort out all the meat, fish, chicken breasts etc which I had brought yesterday on a big shop.
Freezer is now full again, with all that I love to cook with.
Well done Miriam (my fridge /freezer thankfully defrosts itself!) but you can now enjoy cooking all those lovely dishes and Lanjan and I will be salivating when we hear the results of your skills 😂
ReplyDeleteWhat a night of weather you had (I bet that coffee tasted good. Terrific wind here in Hampshire but no rain...
7.30 pm today “ Ruth” on Pointless and it is a new prog, she has been on before but I think that was with “David”.
We had a nice day. The dogs went into day care with the people who will look after them while we are on holiday. It lets them look at the resident dogs and see how they got on. Thankfully all went well so they are allowed back! Katy and I took advantage and went out for lunch at our favourite restaurant in St Helen’s near Ryde. She had turbot and I had belly pork which is delicious when cooked properly. We then had Jimmy ‘s Mess which is a mixture of fruit in season, today rhubarb, honeycomb like crunchy bar centre, small cubes of jelly , sorbet and dots of cream on a base of lemon curd. I always have this when we go there! Afterwards we went to the garden centre to get bark chippings , and bought two viburnums, Geraniums and alpines. Last week my occasional gardener came over and cleared the raised bed of weeds putting three sacks of chippings down but needed more. You can never tell how many sacks to buy! It took him two hours to do that and clear some weeds from the gravel. It would have taken me much longer as well as being a big effort so well worth it! It was nice not having to worry about the dogs and not to have to rush back home! I can leave them for up to three hours but do worry that they are OK!
ReplyDeleteThat sounds brilliant Ev. I also pay an occasional gardener. It is costly, but it is only now + again and money well spent, as the hard graft has been done, so I can then maintain the hedges afterwards.
DeleteExactly, it was such a relief to get the tidy up done!
DeleteIt was windy here today but sunny! Hannah, the dog minder took Gyp for. A short walk this morning and this afternoon they did a long walk so they took her in a pushchair! I had problems with Gyp during the week as she was reluctant to walk but once down at the creek on an open patch of grass she happily walks round in circles, typical of blind dogs apparently. We decided to get a dog pushchair for her as it would make walks easier for me when she has a bad day! She does enjoy the fresh air and the ambience down at the creek but sometimes what a chore getting her down there! I think that as in her early life she wasn’t taken for walks, she was never properly trained to a lead and as she likes to plough her own furrow she objects to being led! At least the circling gives her exercise!
ReplyDeleteI have a dog pushchair for Misty, it is a godsend when we go to the beach as it is a long walk down on tarmac which she finds difficult/dislikes, I think because when she stumbles the surface is hard and it hurts her. I am sure it will be well worth your while
DeleteLady R Thanks.
ReplyDeleteI do not usually watch Pointless, but I will do tonight.
Not only Ruth, but David as well are participating and also as a fan of Masterchef, I am looking fotward to seeing India Fisher for the first time.
It looks intriguing, putting faces to names and voices.
Also my R.Beef with R.Pots. Yorkshire Pud. V. hot horseradish sauce, along with carrots, cauli. + Spring Greens, will be ready to eat and enjoy, whilst watching.
DeleteYum! 😋
DeletePoor Ruthy.
ReplyDeleteShe probably has no idea as to what we are chatting about with the weather, + now the TV show Pointless.
Thanks Ruthy,.
Without you, this chat would not be taking place.😀😀
Ah it is “Ruth & David” again on Pointless but is in the book under pick of the day and no R for repeat near it. So off we go.....
ReplyDeleteWell that appearance soon over ☹️ Interesting insight to the characters when doing a bed scene not in front of the microphone apparently 🤭
ReplyDeleteI just loved the chap Steve? who gave his Queen Mother + Margaret Thatcher voices, from Spitting Imsge. That really surprised me.
DeleteWell at least I didn’t need to sit through the whole programme.
ReplyDeleteI don’t think I could have done so.
I turned off before Alexander Armstrong said who was who.
Was I correct in thinking that John Bishop and Norman Vaughan were two of the people on the first board?
I didn’t know any of the “celebrities” apart from Ruth and David and wasn’t at all interested in the dreadful chit chat .
Much prefer straight forward quizzes like University
Challenge and Brain of Britain .
I like the Chase and Tipping Point but find Pointless just that!
ReplyDeleteSuccinct and to the point Ev.
DeleteI watched the episode of Pointless last year (I think) with 'Emma' and I think 'Ruth'. Interesting to see the faces behind voices such as 'caution vehicle reversing' and the deep voiced film trailers.
ReplyDeleteI tried to find it on my IPad, but by the time I did there was no sign of Ruth or David, and what I did see for a few minutes was Incomprehensible.
ReplyDeleteBut that led me on to watching a documentary about Jill Dando, then two episodes of Waking the Dead - so an evening of binge TV, very rare for me, no food, and my report for my committee on Monday not done tonight.
Naughty me !
You didn’t miss anything ,Mrs P in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteAll “celebrities “ want to do is to talk about themselves about things which nobody else is interested in hearing.
Janice,I hope you are feeling a lot better.
Have the hummingbirds arrived yet, Ruthy?
ReplyDeleteHope so..
Delete