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longer off topic comments - episode 51 Life Outside Ambridge
longer off topic comments - episode 51 Life Outside Ambridge
Life outside Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments" - Episode 14 Life Outside Ambridge Have a seat and let's chat.
Just thought I would experiment with adding fancy moving images! If it's not to anyone's liking please do say.
ReplyDelete*** Obviously, please do NOT click on any links that may be on the page with the video! ***
So sweet π
ReplyDeleteThanks Gary for this and for removing those erroneous posts before they did any damage. Good to hear Ruthy is OK and hopefully she can come up for air soon.
Incidentally do we have a date yet for the September meet? I think someone said they can only do 6 September - is that the date we are settling on??
That's lovely Gary.
ReplyDeleteSince trying to get, and succeeding in getting a rescue dog, I spend a great deal of time looking at this kind of thing.
Get posts daily.
CowGirl - yes I am being careful but clearly not enough.
I was scared too, as this encounter was with a cow, far more prepared to be actively attentive to the perceived threat.
The problem is the lack of areas to walk a dog off lead where cows are not present.
And I was especially careful yesterday. That cow was a long way away from the rest of her herd, and hidden from sight even from paths close by.
It is wonderful to live in an area where the cattle free graze on common land but it has its drawbacks.
Even our local community ground has cattle in the adjacent rough pasture with public footpaths across it.
Lovely Gary, thank you.
ReplyDeleteI found your last comment about the maternal instinct interesting Cowgirl because years ago in my father's time we had a pregnant cow go over the bluff into a narrow valley. There was no way any vehicle could be got there. She had broken her pelvis and it would have been shoot her but then someone thought of bringing the calf that she had been feeding (not even her own but one she had fostered ) down to the bottom of the field nearest the valley. The calf was calling and calling, and the cow managed to get to her feet and with 5 of us supporting her sides we slowly but surely got her along the valley to the field and into a shed.
ReplyDeleteShe later went on to have her own calf successfully, but did need help because of the newly healed pelvis. The bravery of animals can be very humbling. I sometimes think humans are a lesser species. We have brain power but often use it unwisely.
Love the happy calves Gary.
DeleteWhat a lovely outcome Janice. I love cows, like us they have feelings and care, one day I was coming out of the shed with one of my cows when another who was bulling barged in and crushed us against the wall , fortunately it was wooden so gave a little, I did scream in pain but wasn't seriously hurt. The poor cow next to me Vanilla was distraught, for 3 or 4 days she wouldn't come in and had to be encouraged, even then coming in backwards .She was the matriarch of the herd, first time calvers were guided by her and if she didn't think that one of the cows was looking after her calf properly she sorted them out. When one of my cows died suddenly, her calf was 6 weeks old, she didn't have any milk, but let him suckle for comfort and continued to keep an eye on him, as you say Janice we can learn from them.
ReplyDeleteJanice and CowGirl, thank you so much for those stories about cows.
DeleteSo touching.
I love cows so much.
I would love to know CG how Vanilla ' sorted out ' the inferior mums.
Walked Lady in the woods today and heard a cow mooing for well over an hour.
I think she was probably in labour.
Went to our local country show a year or so back, and from the moment I arrived I could hear the plaintive cries of a cow. When I got to the enclosure they were just bringing her calf back to her, presumably taken away for some judging. As soon as she saw it near she stopped her crying.
I felt very angry on her behalf, that she was required to relinquish her baby for any length of time.
We had a fantastic walk, which I intended should be about half an hour.
That was about 4:30. We got back to the car in time to hear the last few sentences between Shula and Jim.
We must have walked well over three miles I think, well I did. Most of it on the Cotswold Way through Standish Woods. We are surrounded here by amazing NT land be it open Common or massive Beech woods.
Lady probably did about ten miles, running in and out of woods, up steep wooded slopes and down again. I give her freedom to go as far as she wishes and she takes that freedom gleefully. When I call her it can take two or three minutes before she comes galloping back. She has excellent re call, and I am confident that she has no intention of losing me.
She is, needless to say, exhausted.
And I am about to eat some more of the Irish Stew I cooked yesterday.
I will have enough for day three too.
I’m happy with the 6th sept. On the calendar. Will get a train booked.
ReplyDeleteMe too.
DeleteGG The moving pics work well, how clever you are.
ReplyDeleteMy only comment - a tad bit too long?
Thank-you, so much for your wonderful new sites. I so appreciate your time + input.
I am sure that I am not alone in saying this. π
Love the cows & calfs cavorting, Gary ! An inspirational start to a new blog !
ReplyDeleteRemind me - where is the Sept meet up taking place?
ReplyDeleteAt The Barbican in that fancy London I do believe!
DeleteLovely picture, moving or not. Enough to make anyone become a vegetarian!
ReplyDeleteIf it's too long you don't have to watch to the end!
Love to see animals running around in the fields.
I remember that there was a film of the Whitbread Shire horses being brought to Paddock Wood, (near to where I was brought up,) for their fortnight's holiday from working in London. The horses arrival always featured on the local TV news. The horse boxes were backed up into the field and the horses let out. These huge animals galloped around like two year olds!
Thanks Gary for keeping us going! You're a star!
I was supposed to be born at Paddock Wood Spiceycushion but my mum didn't make it.
DeleteMy sister was born there though.
Heavens above Mrs P! What a co-incidence. I was brought up in Matfield and used to cycle 'down' to PW to get shopping for my mum, especially baby food at the chemist there on Wednesday afternoons when our village shops were on half day closing.
DeleteMy brother went to school there and I have three nieces and nephews at the big comprehensive school there now.
You may know this but the Whitbread Hop Farm is featured in Siegfried Sassoon's book 'Memoirs of a Fox-hunting Man.' He writes of all the local villages around Tunbridge Wells and mentions seeing the famous oast house cowls from his house 'Weirleigh' situated on Gedge's Hill, just outside of PW (known to locals as Gedge Hill.)
I once went to a birthday party (as a 10yr old) at Weirleigh and we spent the time looking for a secret passage triggered by some sort of mechanism in one of the beautiful carved wooden panels which lined the living room there.
It's a small world!!
Well Spicey, perhaps you can tell me why I was meant to be born there and why my sister was.
DeleteI have always assumed that there was an outreach maternity unit for South London in PW, but don't know if that was the case.
Ah ah ! That suggests another google journey to find out..........
I loved to hear, that a black rhino, born in Chester Zoo, has today been released in Rwanda, as part of a consevation project to introduce them back into their normal habitat.
ReplyDeleteThanks again,Gary .
ReplyDeleteI have just listened to an episode of Why Mummy Drinks on R4. (Will download all 5 eps at weekend to listen as one).
ReplyDeleteI have read the follow up book - Why Mummy Swears - which is so hysterically funny + true to life. Author is Gill Sims.
I listened to the first part last night. Was good. Deffo need to read why mummy swears......
DeleteMiriam , are you fancying coming to the meet up? Be good to meet another blogger.
ReplyDeleteHave just watched some Utube of the Spooky Mens Chorus and think I will get a ticket for next month, when they are here on their 2019 tour.
ReplyDeleteGary, they are at the Mackintosh Church in Glasgow this weekend.
Their rendition of Dancing Queen is so entertaining.
PtbY -
ReplyDeleteI should think that your medication is beginning to kick in by now.
How are you feeling ?
I feel fine Mrs P. Have done ever since the op. Constricted throat now better, taste everything as normal, much more stamina.
DeleteSo glad I had the op.
Now if only I could sleep all night I’d be on top of the world.
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteThank you GG for removing that long and weird post which was on both blogs very late last night (early hours) I would not leave any comment at that time because of it being there!
ReplyDeletePtby so glad to read you are feeling great now - apart from sleep issue.
PtbY - good news!
DeleteWell MrsP you have a lot to answer for!! π. I watched the Spooky Men's Chorale.....Dancing Queen. Very entertaining. (They do others including a David Bowie collection). This led me onto (of course π) other snippets on the same page. An interview (almost an hour long) with Peter Fenwick a neuropsychiatrist and neurophysiologist on near death experiences and end-of-life phenomena . I found it fascinating but one really has to be in the right frame of mind. Probably not a good idea if feeling under the weather!! π€ More, I expect, controversial was his feeling that the subject of death should be part of the curriculum in schools. This blog certainly has serendipitous consequences. π
ReplyDeleteI watched the choir too BB! But I took a very different tour from the YouTube video afterwards and ended up watching Cathy Freeman winning gold in the 400m at the Sydney Olympics!! I often look up things that fellow bloggers write about - it often takes me on interesting journeys...
DeleteWell I just watched the choir doing dancing queen. Very good singers. Couldn’t watch a whole show of em though.
ReplyDeleteA few minutes ✔......... A whole concert probably π΄!
DeleteBeautiful harmonising. I love the sound of male voice choirs whether it is plain song, Welsh choirs, Russian. I am definitely going to share this discovery with friends and relatives!
DeleteSpiceycushion, we seem to be on the same page as far as male singing is concerned.
DeleteDid you look up there tour schedule ?
In answer to your query about how Vanilla sorted out her fellows cows....
ReplyDeleteWhen Emerald had her first calf she was having difficulty in the last stages (she always had a liitle trouble not a great deal of strength. ) She nudged her up on to her feet and had her walking round for a little before she let her lie down again, that did it and her calf came.When she thought that a cow had left her calf long enough again she gave them a nudge in the right direction and over saw them feeding. Emerald hadn't had good parenting and was initially not very good, Vanilla showed her with her own calf and she ended up a superb mother.
Whilst I milked my cows, I left the calves on for 8 weeks, a calf can manage after 6 weeks with no milk, then separated them, though mums and calves could see ech other and nuzzle through the bars. Generally they were back together within 8 weeks with no sucking. Then I discovered an American bra (for cows with heavy udders before calving) mainly for a cow who was a self sucker and that did the trick, for her and for others to stop the calves sucking, so they could stay together.
When I stopped milking I didn't bother with the bra, but the cow who self sucked had taken all the milk and her calf was hungry, she was so ashamed and sorted it, she had 2 quarters and the calf had the other 2, this worked until she had twins and thought the pair could manage with 2 between them, so the bra went back on, eventually the calves learnt to push their noses under the bra, saved me getting up 2 a night to feed them.
Thank you CG. Very interesting, and enlightening.
DeleteI would have loved to have been a farmer.
Or a smallholder at the very least.
GG. Can you answer a question, as the temporary administrator- when a post has to be removed, does the poster know it has been done, and why?
ReplyDeleteThe poster only knows when they see the message on the relevant page that it has been removed, and there is no contact whatsoever between the administrator and them.
DeleteI can remove posts entirely and there would be no trace of it on the blog at all - I sometimes do that when a blogger has deleted their own post for their own reasons, just so that it all looks a touch "tidier"!
Thanks for the reply GG. That was informative.
DeleteThanks yet again, for your wonderful help + support, you are doing brilliantly. π
My neighbours are very noisy again tonight - but it is very positive this time. At last their trees, are being chopped back, and what a difference.
ReplyDeleteTo add, I am cooking my very wicked chilli - which could rival Susan's.
π€£π
Deleteππ»π€π
DeleteI know that I have a wierd + wacky sense of humour, but I have loved - John Finnemore's Souvenir Programme - but it was not as good as his Cabin Pressure. This is one of those R4/R4ex programmes that I can listen to, over + over, and still find it funny.
ReplyDeleteSame here Miriam. I just adore roger Allan as Douglas.
DeleteWell I love the Spookies! Lots of ideas in the poor old brain now, to surprise our tenors & basses - can just imagine the looks of utter bewilderment on the faces of the French choristes!
ReplyDeleteDo you run a choir Parsley ?
DeleteYes! A French country choir, 2/3 French 1/3 British, rehearsals run in French, around 35 choristes. I've been chef de chΕur since 2000. Very enthusiastic, we finish each rehearsal with a 'pot de l' amitiΓ© ' provided by a group of choristes. Just got back actually!
DeleteMrs P if you are interested if you go on the British Kerry cattle society website you can see some of my cows on the headings description, breed history and contact. I bought my first cow in my mid 50s when I took early retirement, far too late !
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear you are having some good walks with Lady where you don't have to worry about cows
So interesting & informative CG, love & respect cows.
DeleteThe sunset over the hills and mountains tonight has been spectacular! I was out watering the garden and I was a little bit mesmerised by it to be honest. Hope everyone copes with all these crazy temperatures over the next few days...
ReplyDelete24 tonight, Expecting 40 here tomorrow - hibernating behind the shutters..
Deleteparsley, that sounds horrific! I think the hottest I've ever experienced was 34 in Beijing and I genuinely thought I would possibly melt - I bought an enormous pink parasol and had to endure thousands of Chinese people in the Forbidden City laughing at me! I cared not a jot...
DeleteBe careful!!
Parsley π± π±π±
Delete23c is tops for me 25c at a push beyond that and it’s - roll on Autumn π
GG how wonderful you described your sunset so well I could visualise the scene perfectly ⭐️
Well it's a beautiful morning, a mere 25.5 degrees in the bedroom overnight..!! Windows & doors wide open to air through while we can, then the regime of the shutters takes over.
DeleteI have a brolly with a duck's head handle.. a pink parasol sounds wonderful!!
Lovely stories recently about cows and choirs. Thank you for sharing them. I returned to my Women’s choir yesterday and loved it. We lunch afterwards.
ReplyDeleteParsley and everyone in hot places, stay well in the heat. I noticed it was 12 degrees yesterday at “home”. Whilst I prefer it a little warmer I am looking forward to escaping the heat of the city for some fresh sea and moor air. I have abandoned my plan to be in town on Saturday as 31 degrees is too much for me.
Certainly relieved not to be chasing round the (lovely) Charente countryside to teach recalcitrant 'gosses'..!
DeleteSinging is such wonderful therapy, whatever your style!
DeleteAll this talk of choirs reminds me of my youth when I lived in Handsworth, , my school teacher friends persuaded me to join them in singing with the Birmingham Choral Union, how I managed to pass the audition I don't know, fortunately we didn't have to be able to sight sing.It was in the days before the Symphony Orchestra had their own choir and we used to sing with them, we had to wear these awful turquoise crimplene dresses, we called ourselves the three budgies ! but we did have fun, after a concert everyone used to rush to buy a paper to read the reviews, those were the days.
ReplyDeleteππ€£π¦π¦π¦
DeleteShame, when I posted the "budgies" from my phone they were blue - now on the "big screen" they've turned red!!
DeleteThey're blue here, Parsley !
Deleteis that just down to the weather??!
DeleteAll this talk of choirs is making me very envious.
DeleteI have tried three different groups up here, the last one I only visited once, but knew straight away that this was the one for me.
However, the following week I got the dog, and since that group meets in a yoga studio, I cannot take the dog.
So I have not been singing for four months now. And I'm desperate !
CG, thank you for the info on the cows. I will google.
On my tablet they are blue but on the PC they are red!
ReplyDeleteTurquoise - my least favourite colour. In our house it's known as "Somerfield Blue", named after the disgusting signage of the old supermarkets...
MEETING at the BARBICAN
ReplyDeleteThe London meeting will be on Friday, 6th Sept., from 11.00 am. Timing is fluid, for travel reasons, but rest assured, we'll be there for hours, either cavorting on the terrace, around the flowing fountains ( unless they're switched off....), or maybe in the restaurant
alongside.
Will post a reminder mid August, & very much hope that more bloggers will join us !
Thanks carolyn. See you then!
DeleteNot possible, have one for me! π₯
DeleteThanks for this, it was me who could only manage the Friday, I’ll be there, I am looking forward to meeting some of my fellow bloggers. With my sense of direction I’ll probably be wandering around the Barbican like a lost soul for a bit, but hopefully I will recognise the destination.
DeleteYou can't actually miss it KP, it really is a Barbican, but if you arrive by tube, you have to cross the road and walk through a long road tunnel.
DeleteHowever long it takes you to find us, it's all of interest.
Look forward to meeting you.
Re reading your post, I might be misunderstanding you, 'cos it reads as though you might already know the place, but are thinking about where the fountains are.
So apologies if I am being condescending.
Should also say, I do expect to be there but may have to bring the dog with me if she still cannot be without me then.
DeleteI’ve booked my train ticket already so I’ll be there. Can’t wait.
ReplyDeleteHello everyone. I don't visit here very often, but decided to pop in and join in the conversation.
ReplyDeleteI listened To the Spooky Men, not my cup of tea, male voice choirs are not my musical taste.
I do love choral music especially Bach, Haydn H. Von Bingan etc. I also love folk music, traditional and more modern variations. I was in a choir at school and we had to do sung masses, I loved it.
Most of my day is spent on the allotments, too much rain = weeds, and vegetables reaching for the sky.
Meeting at the Barbican sounds hopeful, shall give it some thought.
I might be interested. I can get to London Euston easily by train, but as I have said previously, I hate the tube. I will look at buses and/or the distance for a taxi.
ReplyDeleteI have just had some brilliant news, that another niece of mine (age 37) had her 12 week scan today, with her first "bubba". A total surprise, to all. I will be a "Grand Aunty" for the 7th time in January. Happy Times.
ReplyDeleteAlso, another niece has had the official, unconditional notification of her new job with Stockport Council. She puts in her notice in London tomorrow. The final "jigsaw" piece of her families new life, outside of London, has been put into place today. She + family now lives only 25 miles away. As said - Happy Times.π
DeleteSpiceycushion- I thought last night that you might like to know of, ( and google) a local (ish) group, male, called AK47. I first encountered them at a singing day, and have been to one of their concerts, and a couple of the members live down the road to me, though I'm not on speaking terms, just recognise them.
ReplyDeletemy whole musical life has been based around playing & teaching classics - have always sung, mostly church/chamber choir repertoire - so my listening of choice is usually (but not always) the opposite!
ReplyDeleteanything that tugs at yer insides.
Have just read “A Grand Old Time” by Judy Leigh. It’s about a 75 year old lady who after her husband dies finds herself in a home. Being a feisty sort she rebels, escapes and after a series of events ends up in France, buying a camper van and meeting a good few folk on the way. I enjoyed it and found it refreshing to have a story of someone in my age group who certainly is not past it!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a grand old read Ev, must seek it out.
DeleteI read this a few weeks ago, good fun! Currently enjoying Why Mummy drinks after catching some of of on the radio, found myself snorting with laughter in places.
DeleteOh I am definitely going to have to get that book Ev.
ReplyDeleteI have checked our library and they do not have a copy in the Borough where I live so it looks like EBay.
I plan to read it and then take it to the Barbican in September and pass it on.
Having a great ,great grandmother (who lived in “The big House” who eloped with the bread man and a mother who left her fiancΓ© when she met and married the man who became my father I think I would like to read s book like that
...........but then of course history does tend to repeat itself!
Ordered the book!
ReplyDeleteHope you enjoy, Lanjan!
DeleteEv. Is the search for the missing zoology student in the IOW, affecting you?
ReplyDeleteNo, although I do walk the dogs down in that area. We have had helicopters circling and Katy saw police activity at the creek yesterday when walking the dog. Have just heard a body has been found but not a suspicious death. How awful for her family. Varied reports that she was found near here, one about three miles away. She was distressed after an argument so who knows. Really tragic and so close to home for us.
DeleteLooking up the news report Ev, I came across a picture of the lake.
DeleteIt brought back memories from many years back when as a family, including my mother in law who lived there, we used to take the children out in a boat.
Some happy, some sad memories.
It is tidal so sometimes the lake is a mud flat! You must know where I liv e now, Mrs P!
DeleteI have seen a holiday in Sept. which suits me (a yatching holiday in Greece) which would coincide with my 65th birthday.
ReplyDeleteThere are 2 problems:-
a) I still don't know when the next cataract will happen, so not sure time-scale + vision for Sept.
b) Costs - New front door, is as Natasha, on a 0% interest credit card, for not sure how long. This might be short-term or long...
Lots to think about.
Caution says wait until you have op details? On the other hand the heart says go for it! If you declare everything you could be covered by insurance but it might cost more. Maybe worth enquiring.
DeleteSad news body of Rosie Johnson has been found on the IOW ✝️
ReplyDeleteYes, I have just learnt that. A sad tradegy. π£
DeletePhew.....what a hot day. Have done nothing but lounge about.
ReplyDeleteManaged some, very gentle, gardening
DeleteMy fairly new energy company have suggested I increase my Direct Debit by £17 a month. This is par for the course as they attract you in with a lower D/D then it increases. They have projected my annual spend and when divided by 12 it comes to £3 more than I currently pay. I can leave the amount as it is or increase it to their amount but cannot compromise in between. I have decided to stay as I am and if necessary will pay anything owing at the end of the year. My washing machine bought in May seems to be reducing electricity costs so hope I will be covered. It seems energy companies seek to get the maximum from monthly payers being an interest free loan!
ReplyDeleteModern appliances are so energy efficient these days. 18 months ago, I had a new washing machine, fridge + electric cooker (as opposed to previous gas one) and my electric usuage went down. I can tell the old freezer (not in kitchen) is using too much elec, as ices up
Deletequite quickly. Not prepared to change, just yet, though.
My nieces partner, the one who lives not far away, slipped in kitchen, last night, dislocated his shoulder and broke his elbow. Nothing has been done about the elbow, until sees a specialist in fracture clinic tomorrow. I'm on stand-by for school runs + help, depending on what happens and whether neice has to go back to London for work. As she is working out her notice, my advice is forget about work as family + partner are far more important.
ReplyDeleteA saturday night at home, with friends - I just hope it wasn't a "hic" accident, as he does like his whiskey.
He has a locked room at the top of the house, which is dedicated to his whiskey collection - over 100 bottles from all over the world and differing ages - but that's his business, not mine.
Having had one niece, whose husband became an alcoholic ( now dry for 5 years + the fully qualified cricket coach), I would hate to see a similar situation starting π€
Quite Miriam! Possibly something on the floor that caused the slip? Unfortunately it takes so little to cause distressing injuries. My hair lady had a similar fall 2 years back, only in her early 40’s but damaged her hip which had to be pinned etc her condition not helped by there being so little of her and in her case has caused a number of ongoing problems. So π€for your nieces partners recovery. Could niece cut short her notice period under current family circumstances?
ReplyDeleteI broke a rib in a simple accident, a couple of years ago. I was vacuuming the stairs, walking down backwards with mule slippers on, foot slipped in slipper, fell backwards and hit my back on newel post. Took myself to A+E by taxi, diagnosed with rib breakage and no treatment needed. It was painful.
DeleteSimple accidents happen, but I do have a little warning bell going off, as I know him well.
My worries relate to a road accident a few months ago. It was daytime with children in car, and not his fault, he also had a broken rib. At hosp. his bloods + tests showed up slightly abnormal liver function tests, as well as borderline high BP and diabetes, and overweight. He was told to change his life-style.
DeleteSorry.
DeleteI had to vent my feelings, which I can't do, just yet, with family or personal friends. I felt I could do so, with virtual friends, so thanks. I feel better for doing so. π
Pleased you were able to get it off your chest Miriam.
DeleteYour welcome !
Hope venting your feelings on here helps Miriam.
DeleteIt has + thanks.
DeleteJust starting to watch Kylie at Glastonbury!
Thanks to Glastonbury I have had a very quiet weekend.
DeleteSo nice !
I was pleasantly surprised this evening to discover that there are dozens and dozens of fake reviews on Trip Advisor for Grey Gables! Very amusing read...
ReplyDeleteWhat do you put in trip advisor Gary, I can’t find it.
ReplyDelete"Trip Advisor Grey Gables Birmingham" on Google should take you there!
DeleteShame they don’t take bookings. What a meet up venue that would be π€ππ
DeleteIt looks like 2 of my Ash trees have the very early stages of Ash dieback , had a minor panick as I have around very large ones the highway or bridle path as well as many others. Thank goodness for the web, as I found all the info I needed, so panic over, I have decided though to have all the trees in that corner where the ash are showing signs of die back, cleaned out , they are just a jumble of self seeded trees, tall but rangey, in their place I am going to put a couple of specimen trees, probably Rowan and Birch. I planted a weeping birch and sweet chestnut last year and an oak seedling is growing in a suitable position, so may be by the time I have to lose all or some of the other ash in my little wood at the bottom of the garden, some will at least be growing. On the positive side some of the cost will be offset by the fact that I can burn the wood.
ReplyDeleteVery sad to lose any trees CG. I feel for you, but admire the positive spin you are able to put on the loss, and good luck with the new trees.
DeleteLovely to have a wood at the end of your garden.
I went to live in N Wilts just as the Elm tree die back started and witnessed the massive loss that involved over a five year period. I still feel affected by that.
Trees are so noble.
I walked in another wood yesterday and saw two of the largest trees I have ever seen. Even larger in circumference than the massive Oaks in Richmond Park which provided the timber for Henrys fleet.
These yesterday were Beech.
I am now doing sections of the Cotswold Way, a mile or so at a time, on my way to Haresfield Beacon this time, and Lady is in her element in the woods.
Thank you GG for telling us about the reviews on tripadvisor. Hilarious π
ReplyDeleteI especially liked the ones from Daphne F and the reviewer attending the scriptwriters conference.
Apollo 11 at the IMAX was spectacular beyond belief! Even though we all know how it went, it was still nerve wracking. The scale of everything was just amazing and the cinematography was exquisite. Can't believe that much of the footage had been left lying in a drawer for 50 years totally forgotten about!
ReplyDeleteIt totally got me out of my bad mood. So much so that I came home and booked a week long holiday on the Isle of Arran next week. Hurrah!!!
GG That sounds wonderful. Is it a bothy, a cottage, a B+B or a posh hotel?
DeleteApollo 11 - I know what you mean. Even knowing the outcome, it is still "nail biting" to watch. I bet that there are things which happened, and have yet never been revieled.
spelling...meant revealed...
DeleteGoing to a little cottage in the same glen that I used to live in years ago. Will be kayaking, hiking, a bit of horse sitting-on and some cycling. ☺
DeleteEnjoy yourself, but don't forget your suntan cream !!!
DeleteIt's the first thing I will pack CowGirl!
DeleteLooking forward to Apollo 11. A couple of small local cinemas not far from us, mixture of French & some VOST, Rocketman this week hopefully.
DeleteHave a good trip GG!
DeleteI need to sort my internet TV box out, which is FOC on my plan, but rarely used.
ReplyDeleteWimbledon, I love it. I now need to work out, how to have the choice of matches being shown on all courts, via i-player + internet.
A challenge, but will do, hopefully.
BBC sports app Miriam we have it on our Panasonic smart tv and I have downloaded it onto iPhone and iPad. We used the tv app to watch Williams v Guaff.... have you seen it? No spoilers from me.
ReplyDeleteWell - what a match..!
DeleteEnjoy your holiday on the Isle of Arran ,Gary.
ReplyDeleteVery envious.
When we went .we stayed in a cottage in Blackwaterfoot.
I lived in Blackwaterfoot for 6 months Lanjan! That was after I had lived in Brodick for about a year. Cannot wait to visit all my old haunts again...
DeleteHope you have a great holiday, Gary, as well as going down memory lane. I liked the bit about 'sitting on a horse's after all that physical activity....a mental picture of a broad backed beast munching happily on an apple whilst you nod off on the saddle...
DeleteLady R . I sorted TV box out. I saw the Wiliams v Guaff match.
ReplyDeleteFor some reason, I never have warmed to the Williams sisters, as talented as they are/were.
My TV is a smart one, but have always had trouble setting it up with my WiFi (although router is on the shelf below).I will try again, as picture quality and sound, is so much better on TV, via digital ariel.
I know that I am a traditionalist, but I do like the Wimbledon players wearing all white clothing.
DeleteI could never play tennis, for some reason.
I was a very good umpire though. πΎ
✔️π€ yes tradition all the way Miriam!
DeleteAn umpire ⭐️⭐️
To all Sports Fans:-
ReplyDeleteGood Luck to The Lioness's tonight, and to the England cricket team for tomorrow.
These are both very crucial matches, in their own tournaments.
⚽️π
I have just heard the latest re my nieces partner and his broken elbow. It is a very rare break + situation. He is to have an op. on Monday, but it is not known if the bones can be plated + joined together, or needs some sort of replacement. Whatever happens, he has been told he will need intensive physio and might never have full use of that elbow again (just 39yrs).
ReplyDeleteSounds like it was a nasty fracture Miriam.
DeleteIt is his left elbow and he is right-handed, so will cope. My niece is anxious, that his parents, will decide to jump on a 'plane (from Mauritaus) to take arrive + take-over. This is not what she would like, but they are his parents so have every right to arrive to look after their son + grandchildren.
DeleteNot sure I agree with you there Miriam.
DeleteWhen a person marries, the marriage partner takes precedence over the parents. And while the wife copes, in laws should keep their distance until asked to help.
I M O !
I know his parents. They are a lovely, warm, charming couple + wonderful to talk to. However, Pa is a true Patriach and can be very dictororial, who thinks he always knows best and so acts accordingly, where family is concerned. It is jump - how high??
DeleteWhat a wonderful result for the England cricket team.
ReplyDelete... and Coco Gauff πΎ π± π€ π am - a -zing ⭐️
ReplyDeleteFor those who know about wildlife:-
ReplyDeleteI had a strange insect in my porch today (found after mowing lawns) which I have no idea what it was.
The body was like a small spider with 6 legs + 2 "legs" from top, looking like horns of a beetle. It also had a tail, the same length as the body, so only short, with yellow + black stripes. I just put it out into garden.
Any ideas???
Back to Wimbledon - Kyrgios v Nadal.
DeleteLoved the Isner match, and the Kerber one. Juggling Wimbledon, evening meal + TA....
...also, watering the window box, hanging basket + planters. Talk about multi-tasking!
DeleteBuddy went for a booster jab today and the veterinary nurse gave him treats o distract him as he is a nervous patient. He shrieks at the sight of a needle! He snapped at her and Katy had to hold him tight, the next step would have been a muzzle! Afterwards the nurse offered him more treats at which he leapt into Katy’s arms believing it was the preamble to another jab! The vet reckons it’s the Yorkie in him as they are renowned cowards. In contrast Gypsy, a full Tsi Tzu doesn’t turn a hair whatever the vet does to her. For my part I was used to jabs in the forces and afterwards to go abroad but I never look at the needle! Turning 70 I did have the shingles jab and knowing people who have had shingles it can be very nasty so glad to have that done!
ReplyDeleteI haven't had the shingles jab yet but I did have my B12 yesterday and having seen my GP on Monday have now been given permission to have it two monthly, eight weeks. Have been having it at twelve weeks plus a supplement for the third month, but it hasn't worked so I am mightily released to get it down to eight weeks.
DeleteI've been having blood tests and needles stuck in me since very early childhood.
I don't look at the needle either but I rarely feel anything.
My blood test last week produced the red stuff immediately from my hand.
The veins in my arms are very weak now, and can sometimes take ten minutes or more to get a single drop.
Ev, my previous dog was like Buddy, couldn't cope with pain or the vets I always had her muzzled. I personally don't like the idea of treats been used as a distraction, as Buddy got the wrong idea, I always take treats with me to the vets for them to give after, that way it is more positive.
ReplyDeleteMrs P glad to hear you are now having your B12 every 8 weeks, we shouldn't have to fight though.
Janice we haven't heard from you for a while, I hope you are continuing to make good progress
Yes thanks Cowgirl. I still have to take things gently , but am able now to potter round the garden and do things as long as I pace myself, and I have spent a wonderful couple of afternoons sitting on the beach and paddling. Not up to swimming yet, and I haven't started driving again just yet. I have been busy sorting out a lot of paperwork and have put my little rental business with a management agent, and I feel now as if a huge weight has lifted from my shoulders and am feeling relaxed in a way I haven't for years. If Lanjan reads this then I do remember what she said about 68 being time for retirement! This has been a wake up call and I have heeded it!
DeleteYes agree treats should not be used as distraction. While this was going on Katy didn’t have a hold on him and he was not fooled anyway! He is a very small dog and next time we will have a secure hold on him so that he can’t snap. He is generally very gentle but easily terrified by needles! Thank goodness no more jabs for a year!
ReplyDeleteMrs P also glad you have won the fight for every 8 weeks B12. Hope you like Marmite as it is a good source! I am a hater!
Thanks to Ev and CG for acknowledging fight for B12. Apparently ' rules' have recently been ' amended ' !
Delete( Bloody BMA)
But a neighbours GP went on a B12 course and has radically changed his views and practice as a result.
In this town there is apparently, a ' what's ap' group who get their stuff from Germany and self medicate, ( inject) I would join them if I could find more information.
No, we should not have to fight, but those of us who do, improve things for others in the future.
Janice, so pleased to read your post. Progress ! Well done.
And understanding then making the decision to slow down is a breakthrough.
Acceptance is the key as far as I am concerned.
LJ would probably disagree.
Ev - no, I don't dislike Marmite, but much prefer Bovril.
And when this ' pernicious anemia ' rose its head, I did check it out and it does contain B12.
I've got strong feeling about this treating business with dogs.
Treats for every training behaviour now.
I don't approve, and am avoiding using them most of the time.
Have stopped going to training classes for this reason.
Is LJ me,Mrs P?
DeleteIf so what would I not agree with?
Whatever it is you are probably right .
Ev,the book you recommended about life beginning at 75 has just arrived.
ReplyDeleteI will let you know how I get on with it when I have finished reading one which was recommended to me called”An American Marriage” by Tayari Jones.
Very good news, Janice, causing you to adapt your life style somewhat, but with no regrets. Wake up calls are designed not to be pleasant, & yours was particularly unpleasant, but it sounds as if you are adapting very wisely.
ReplyDeleteDelighted that you are feeling much better,Janice.
ReplyDeleteI think there comes a time -you haven’t reached it yet Janice- when one suddenly realises one is an old lady!
Mine came when I was 77 years old when I realised I couldn’t do “whole days”.
It came as a shock !
For many years -like Winston Churchill apparently -I have had a 10 minute lunchtime doze and it works wonders but I still don’t do physical work if I can help it after lunch.
Work in the morning,doze,relax in the afternoon.
Lovely.
Well perhaps I was wrong LanJan.
DeleteI was referring to ' acceptance ' being the key, when talking to Janice, but your most recent post suggests that you do ' accept '
Further... I wish I could work in the morning, relax later.
DeleteMy body clock is so reversed that I don't have mornings. Today started at 11.55. And I am sitting now after my lunch at 3.15 pm.
I am the opposite. I still wake early - as old habits die hard. I always had to get up at 6.30 when working. These days it is usually 7.15 - 7.30. I have a routine, to remain in dressing gown + slippers, having breakfast + coffee, watching something recorded the night before eg Long Lost Family, Ambulance, Coronation St or similar. However, it is bed-time at about 9.30pm, and after evening ablutions, I settle down at about 10.00pm. As you must realise I sit down, with a cup of tea at about 4.00pm, and then look in here, before sorting evening meal out.
DeleteOn that note, off to get fish + chips out of the freezer, my normal, traditional Friday night meal.
I have had some news today.
ReplyDeleteMy OZ grand-nephew, just 6 weeks old, has been diagnosed with a hole in the heart.
He is seeing a consultant paedriatic cardiologist, in 3 weeks time. The health-care in OZ seems so much better than here.
I am child-minding, with a sleepover, tomorrow night, for the 8yr + 5yrs kids. Niece's partner is having op. on Mon. (as previously said). They are off out with friends for a meal, one armed in his case, to just relax before Mon.
DeleteI have just made an apple + apricot cake, to take with me it's one way to get the kids to eat more fruit.
Wimbledon - what a dilemma, as to what to watch...
ReplyDeleteDjokovic or Gauff?
Will be following both, somehow!
πΎ I am watching Gauff - have never taken to Djokovic for some reason. Maybe it's because he looks like a younger, glassless Postman Pat to me and therefore can't take him seriously...! π
DeleteHa ! Never taken to Djokovic either. do recognize his talent, but leaves my heart untouched. Coco Gauff however is another matter..!
Delete✔️✔️✔️✔️✔️π
DeleteWell done Coco.
✔️ Absolutely - I felt I had played every point πΎ myself π΄
DeleteI am cross. I was enjoying the Djokvic match, which suddenly disappeared. I have found it again via internet. Luckily I can do so, but can others?
ReplyDeleteSadly not as good picture/sound quality.
DeleteYour family certainly have very bad luck as far as health is concerned Miriam.
ReplyDeleteI wish the latest one positive surgery, if that is on the cards.
Thanks. All seem to have positive outcomes, at the moment - but its wait + see. To think, a week ago, I posted "Happy Times" - not so much now, but I am still very positive + optomistic, as to outcomes. ππ
DeleteDon't forget, I worked as a NHS Pharmacist for over 37 years. It is nothing like a Nurse or Dr. With continuing education etc. I attained a senior position, and my medical knowledge is still quite good, even though now no longer work.
DeleteJust catching up with all the posts, sitting in a lovely garden in Normandie, bottle of red, on to the battlefields tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteThat Coco Gauff game was fantastic! First full one I've watched this year - hopefully the weather will be nice enough to sit in the garden and watch a few more in the coming two weeks. I'm already dreaming of a Serena/Coco final...
ReplyDeleteSorry GG - I just don't like Serena - never have, nor never will.
DeleteI can't explain why!
Wimbledon.
ReplyDeleteI am sad that Gauff won.
This sounds strange after such a brilliant match + a wonderful performance, which was so enjoyable to watch + enjoy.
She is, however, only 15 yrs old, playing in her 1st major tournament. Due to her success, which I cannot fault, she will now be under such pressure + media scrutiny, be it mainstream or social. I feel that this could affect her future long-term. In 5 years time, will she be a World No 1, a Multi Major Tournament Champion, or a forgotten 9 day wonder?
She is a real talent - but I think, too much, too soon (Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy, both spring to mind).
Or she could be exactly like the Williams sisters! And I have to disagree with you Miriam on Woods & McIlroy - both still pretty darned near the top of their craft! Fingers crossed for her...π
DeleteGG. No problem. We have differing thoughts, and that's fine with me. It's nice to be able to express such thoughts, in such a civil way, with no antagonism, just in a friendly manner.
DeletePS I still think you are wrong, and I am right π€£π€£π€£π€£ Only joking, honestly π
☺
DeleteAnnabel Croft peaked too soon and retired from tennis very early on. I don’t follow it myself but I think Gauff did well and hope she does achieve great things
DeleteOh come on Miriam.
ReplyDeleteDoesn’t everyone love the Underdog?
I want her to go all the way.
I remember Justin Rose who was a very young amateur when he led the field on the first day at Royal Birkdale.
Look at him now?
Great world class golfer.
My grandson had his photograph taken with him at the American Open.
A really nice bloke.
I only gave my thoughts!
DeleteI have been "told off" twice now-the Naughty Step beckons....
Between the naughty step on this blog and the fence on the other one Miriam I hope you have a comfy cushion!!! π
DeleteJustin Rose. I so remember seeing him at a Scottish Open at Gleneagles, when he was just starting out (might still have been an ametour). He is great.
DeleteI was lucky (due to family contacts) to get VIP tickets for the Scottish Open at Gleneagles, for 3 consecutive years. I could drive + park at the hotel, use all the facilities, wander amongst the players, etc. It was great. My other best golf tournaments were, a Solheim Cup in Washington, and an Open at Hoylake.
GG I do - and more than one, so have a pile.
DeleteBack to tennis. I think the Williams sisters have dominated women’s tennis for long enough. As I said I don’t really follow it not being into sport generally but it became a bit boring that it was inevitable that a Williams won every time. Refreshing that Venus was knocked out by this newcomer. It should be interesting though to see a Murray/ Williams doubles match.
DeleteTennis and athletics are the only sports I watch.
ReplyDeleteTracy Austin is another player who peaked too soon. However I think she Is a good commentator.
I want KvitovΓ‘ to win. πΎ
ReplyDeleteI suspect that Coco has a much more robust state of mind than Tracey Austin, she is driving herself.
Just got my free TV licence in time ! though wont be renewing it next year.
I don’t want to be controversial but I think perhaps I am being but
ReplyDeleteWhy should we get a free TV Licence just because we are over 75 years old?
Do you know that a 75 year old person living with a younger member of the family gets the free licence so the daughter or son or whoever gets in effect a free licence.
Same with the Christmas coal money
Christmas coal money? I always thought it was a present π from the government.
DeleteI and my partner are not entitled to the TV πΊ licence and now we nothing to look forward to in our old age.π♀️π΅
Have, have not.
Delete