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Life outside Ambridge
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.
The view from the back of my house!
ReplyDeleteBe it on your own head Gary. I might just have to come up and move in!!! Beautiful.
DeleteWhat a glorious sight Gary.
DeleteStunning !
Breathtaking!
DeleteBeautiful photo Gary - worthy of inclusion in the Countryfile Calendar ......er, you did take it yourself, I assume? π
ReplyDeleteOf course I didn't Archerphile! It's from the web site of our Community Council. But it IS what I am looking at right now as I type...
DeleteLovely Gary... there are some things money can't buy.
ReplyDeleteAn right rerr inra toon ..in glesga
DeleteStunning GG, my most favourite time of the year ππ and your personal view does it great justice
ReplyDeleteLucky lucky you π€
Thought of you Archerphile when the dahlias were featured in this weeks Gardeners World!
ReplyDeleteThey were fantastic weren’t they? I’d love to have an entire garden of dahlias, were have half a dozen varieties but I’d like many more!
DeleteWhat a wonderful view Gary. You are very lucky.
ReplyDeleteI actually looked through those garden gates in Durham last Monday that was on gardeners world last night. We commented at the time what a marvellous garden it was.
It certainly is lovely. When we went up to Glasgow I remember going to the Campsie Hills and how lovely it was within easy reach of the city. It was also not far from the sea and we used to go to Ayr and Prestwick, lovely beaches there.
ReplyDeleteWe took the dogs to Appley beach today at the far end of Ryde, another lovely and clean beach. For Dudley the first time. We called at the beach cafe for breakfast and the dogs had a doggy sausage each all neatly cut up in a paper tub. They all enjoyed their beach walk and Gypsy, weighed down by sausage and contentment just about made it back to the car! The three of them curl up on the back seat with restraints plugged in to the seat belts and they are all very good in the car thank goodness as we are off to Dorset at the end of the month to stay in a holiday cottage. It is Mike’s great grandson, Freddy’s second birthday on 29th and we have bought him a toy tractor. Really looking forward to seeing them all. Being a stepmum was not that easy but feel it was all worthwhile to have this lovely family in latter years!
Your family gathering sounds lovely (and well deserved Ev - enjoy!)
DeleteBeach walk and breakfast yum π
EV
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear you use car restraints for your dogs. It does my head in when I see dogs loose on back or front seat, so uncaring and dangerous, as they say rant over.
Good to hear you have such a positive relationship with your step family.
Enjoy your stay.
Wonderful GG, merci.
ReplyDeleteCowGirl
ReplyDeleteOur understanding is that it is illegal now not to restrain a dog in car but in any case it makes sense and so easy with these restraints. In the event of an accident a flying dog could not only injure itself but the humans as well! Our dogs are very comfortable with it even Dudley who when Katy picked him up from previous owners she was told he liked to get in the front! She has a back seat cover which also prevents them dropping down into the footwell.
It is illegal Ev but people still take no notice , they wouldn't dream of not belting up themselves. All my dogs have been restrained with out any problems.
DeleteAnother point is that an unrestrained dog can so easily distract the driver. I see that a cage, crate or guard are also fine. Apparently if in an accident without restraints your insurance can be invalidated.
DeleteArcherphile (& others) have you updated your iPhone iOS yet - π± much to adjust to. Oh well it’s all happening what with BBC sounds as well although I’m ok with that now ( I hope π)
ReplyDeleteRe BBC Sounds.
ReplyDeleteI used to listen to the morning. Short story or whatever it was called or Book at bedtime.(15mins per episode )
I would listen to one that started a fortnight ago and then listen to the story all in one go.
I can’t seem to do that now.
Also often l I would listen to various Quiz shows like Counterpoint of Brain of Britain but they don’t seem to appear anywhere.
Is anybody able to help please?
If you use the "search" function you should be able to find those programmes Lanjan - just checked! And I've just discovered the auto play button so that you get the following/remaining episodes of a series. You get to it by clicking on the 3 parallel lines underneath and to the right of the "time left screen" of whatever you are listening to.
DeleteI loathe Sounds. It is BY FAR the least user friendly app I have ever experienced. Grrr....
I too loathe sounds, agree with Gary.
ReplyDeleteIt is slow too, and I never thought I would complain about that.
Regarding dog restraints.
I've had many problems and still having them.
At first unable to persuade Lady into the car at all. Then when I could getting her into the back seat where she didn't seem to be happy, then transferring her to the front. I have a chain attached to the head rest bars and that is attached to her collar.
( she does have room to lie or sit)
I would prefer her in the back but it is very difficult to get into the back seats of my car.
Also because of her Separation Anxiety I haven't yet managed to shop around for a harness.
This is all sounding like excuses !
I'm not using the best of solutions but she is at least tethered.
When I first had her and my daughter and son in law visited, he asked why I was tethering her at all. When I told him it was the law, he clearly didn't believe me and obviously considered it nonsense.
They will get a horrible shock if they ever have an accident.
We bought our harnesses from Pets at Home and you can take your dog in there if you have one nearby. We have a large one on the island with more things in there for pets than in an average human shop!! Of course you can shop online for them. I have a small account with Nationwide and use the cash card from that topping it up to around £30 or so most of the time. That way you don’t have to worry too much about fraud. You can get a pouch to contain Lady and a restraint to plug into the seatbelt but at least you do have her tethered presumably so she can’t interfere with your driving. Rescue dogs can be such a headache and at the moment am having a long struggle with Dudley and separation anxiety!!
ReplyDeleteYes your sil would have a shock and if he looks at an up to date Highway Code or Google’s it he will find it is indeed the law.
RΓ© Sounds.
ReplyDeleteYesterday I managed to download all the episodes of a recent Paul Temple serialisation. I did this so I don’t need to be online when I want to listen to them. (Useful to have some downloads when on holiday with no access to WiFi)
There are 8 half hour episodes which I tried to listen to just now. But although I have found them, they are arranged in 2 columns of 4 and don’t say which number episode each one is or what order they are in, so you have to keep opening one up, listen for a couple of minutes to see if you’re on the right one. I haven’t yet worked out if the order is top to bottom or left to right!!
Nor can you rewind the broadcast back to the beginning as you could with the old iPlayer , once it starts it goes on to the end relentlessly.
So frustrating! The old ap. was so easy to use and intuitive. I think Sounds still needs a lot of tweets and work to make it user friendly.
P.S. Lady R - I haven’t been promoted to update iPhone yet, but it’s probably only a question of time
Thanks Gary for your help.
ReplyDeleteHope it WAS of some help Lanjan!
DeleteNow - if anyone knows how to make the main page not so bright white, the icons not so small, make sure that when I've looked at a programme's description and then clicked back after deciding not to listen to it IT DOESN'T BLOODY GO BACK TO THE VERY TOP OF THE PREVIOUS BLOODY PAGE, make it not so slow in responding, make it NOT play entirely unrelated shows on auto-play or get rid of all the shite podcasts from Z-list celebrities I have to wade through, I would be eternally grateful for YOUR help....π¬
When Roger Bolton returns I imagine the complete first programme will be jammed packed with complaints about ' SOUNDS ' and a plea for a BBC executive to explain what thay are intending to do to improve its user friendliness.
ReplyDeleteI have an answer.
Return to the previous system !
I am on Android + I am finding BBC Sounds not too bad, as I can search and find what I want.
ReplyDeleteHowever, it seems that I need to know exactly what I'm looking for, rather than a more simple search.
Next to go is the BBC TV "red button" service. I use this every-morning, whilst having my wake-up coffee, to catch up with the major News/Sports/Weather headlines. It is a quick precis. only, but it suits me.
As you all know, I only have a cat.
ReplyDeleteI feel that restraint in a car, is equally important for a cat. Mine travels in her "catbox", on the front passenger seat, but it is firmly strapped in, with the normal seat belt.
This means, that puss-cat can not only, see me but if I had to do an emergency stop, she would not be shot into the footwell. She is safe + protected.
Mrs P 12.30
ReplyDeletePlease get a harness ASAP as if you have a accident Lady could end up with a broken neck. I use one from the dogs trust that I bought on line. On line being my favourite shopping place.
I often shop on-line, but this is after my preferred scenario, to go, see, examine and handle, what I am looking for, in just one or two local retail outlets.
DeleteI then look "on-line" to buy that chosen item, at the best possible price, with free delivery which is often, possible. I usually save a lot!
Re the sounds app
ReplyDeleteI use this on my phone (Apple) and have done so for most of this year. It took a little getting used to but I find it ok now. I tend to look at the schedules for radio 4 and 4 extra whilst I listen to the archers. I find it easy to subscribe to a programme and for it to be in my sounds when it’s available. I don’t tend to download many but that is an option if I need to. Usually if there is a series like Paul temple after listening to one episode if you scroll down the home page it comes to “continue listening”, so will either restart a prog you were part way through or the next episode of the series.
Hope this helps.
I refuse to listen to Feedback while Roger Bolton is the presenter,Mrs P (4:21 pm.)
ReplyDeleteI still remember the day I sat through the programme expecting to hear our friends from this blog but instead all we heard was a weather forecaster who was retiring.
I was furious.
Also he was one of the people I wrote to and like everyone else(except Frank Field the M.P ) he didn’t reply.
I believe his wife is an Archers listener too.
Re Sounds
ReplyDeleteI struggled to find TA initially, but have 'subscribed' and now find it easily. I have subscribed to another programme, and may add more, something I never did with iplayer. What I dislike is that there appears to be no 20 second rewind with Sounds if I should miss a bit if someone dares to talk to me during TA! ☹️
I don't understand downloads, so have never done that.
I understand your feelings about R B and Feedback LJ, but as I said at the time, RB is the presenter not the producer. He is as much a pawn in the game of chess that is the executive of the BBC as us listeners, well, perhaps not as much as, but certainly has to do as the bosses upstairs say, to toe the line.
ReplyDeleteIt was very clear to me from the beginning that the BBC were not going to retract the decision to close us and that is why I did not join your protest.
RB as been fronting Feedback for many years now, and I will continue to listen.
It's over and done with, ( and what's more, we are a far happier bunch of listeners now, so it was a blessing in the guise of a disaster) and time to move on, not hold grudges.
Yes Cowgirl - I will try to get to Pets at Home this week.
ReplyDeleteI know I need to.
Thank you for your plea. Appreciated.
I've got a horrible tummy bug at the moment.
This is the second bad day, though it started on Friday.
I thought I must have eaten something but discovered three different people with the same complaint in three different parts of the district when walking Lady today.
Apparently it's doing the rounds.
Sounds awful..Look after yourself. Remember to just drink plenty of water.
DeleteI have survived my week-end childminding the grandkids of my Big Sis, aka. a great-nephew + great-niece to me.
ReplyDeleteWe have had great fun together, eaten well, slept well, and basically had a wonderful time.
I can't wait to do it again - that is if I am asked.
That's rotten, Mrs P. Hope the bug wears itself out by tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI agree this blog has a much better vibe, & is more user friendly than the old one, but that doesn't alter the fact that the BBC treated us pretty shabbily, with insultingly
(tch, tch) ....vague & bland reasons for closure. Better they'd been brutally honest & said they hadn't time, money, & personnel to administer the blog for their longest running programme,, & responded more respectfully & fully to the protests. No point in referencing a complaints procedure,, & then just trot out the same old generalised answer every time.
DeleteWell said Carolyn ππ»ππ»
DeleteZoetrope 7.30
ReplyDeleteWhen you’re listening to something there is a little symbol with 20 in it which takes prog back or forward 20 seconds.
Thank you PtbY, I have seen that when I have listened to something on Sounds that I have clicked on to from another site, but not on the screen I see on the Sounds app. Mysterious π€
DeleteAha ... I tapped on the bar at the bottom of the screen and got a full screen including the 20 second forward or backwards options.
Deleteππ
Mrs P 7:30 pm
ReplyDeleteRoger Bolton knew that our friends were expecting to be heard.
The least he could have done would have been to have informed them that it was out of his hands and unfortunately they would not be appearing on his programme
Hope you will be better soon Mrs P. Tummy bugs are awful but usually over in a couple of days so hope that’s the case with you. Glad you can get to Pets at Home. They have a nice soft harness which fastens at the top with Velcro and is like a waistcoat. More comfortable we think for the dog and easier to get on for us!. They have winter ones at the moment fleece lined but you can get a thinner one if that’s better. It has a bone pattern.
ReplyDeleteMrs P, I hope you feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteI second that Mrs P - tummy bugs are rotten and so draining ☹️
DeleteTake care π
Mrs P
ReplyDeleteHope you wake up feeling much better. π
Deposited Mr P at the hospital this afto, D day tomorrow. Should be home Thursday.
ReplyDeletePtby- thank you for your tips re Sounds, I’ll try them out tomorrow. It’s going to take a while to get used to Sounds after the much simpler iPlayer.
ReplyDeleteI think the BBC should issue a guide about how to use it, like you can get for Apple equipment.
Mrs P - so sorry to hear about your tummy bug, do hope it improves very soon. Last month my Dr said I should start taking a statin to lower the risk of a heart attack. Unfortunately they seem to give me side effects similar to having a tummy bug so I’m not very happy with them!
Best wishes Mrs P for a speedy recovery.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful view Gary.
ReplyDeleteLooking in late, but been in bed since nine.
ReplyDeleteThank you all for good wishes.
Agree about shabby treatment from Beeb, but expect nothing more.
Low expectations, less disappointment !
parsley16 (10.50pm)
ReplyDeleteSending good wishes to Mr P (my thoughts will be with you both during the next few days) π»
Thank you Lady R ❤️
DeleteHope you are feeling better this morning, Mrs P.
ReplyDeleteI am with Miriam.
Drink plenty of water !
Take it easy.
Look after yourself.
Mrs P
ReplyDeleteHope you are feeling better.
A word of warning when buying a harness, make sure it is suitable for wearing in the car. I bought one and when I read the blurb it was only suitable for walking and not restraining in the car, so money wasted as I had opened the pack.
Parsley16 - hoping all goes well with MrPs Op/ procedure today, and good health to follow.
ReplyDeleteFeeling less awful this morning, but it seems to be abating.
CowGirl- you highlight the reason I have delayed on this purchase.
Simply seeing other dogs wearing harness, alerts me to the wide choice likely to be available. I become very confused by too much choice. And am hopeless at reading small print.
Thank you for your words of warning.
Glad you are recovering.
DeletePets at home should be able to help you select the appropriate harness.
Thanks Mrs P, & 'bonne rΓ©tablissement' to you xx
ReplyDeleteParsley - I must have missed reading some posts along the way, because I was unaware that Mr Parsley was having treatment today, until I saw the good wishes above.
DeleteSo I include my hopes that all goes well for him and that you will both be back in full good health soon. Mes vΕux sincΓ¨res.
Mrs P
ReplyDeleteHave just been on line to pets at home.
They advertise 2 harnesses for use in the car.
Kurgo Trufit enhanced strength in car safety dog harness. Large size £30.
The other is ezy dog, very expensive at £90 for a large size.
Hope that helps. We need to keep Lady safe and comfortable especially after all her trauma.
Best wishes to Mr P Parsley
ReplyDeleteHope everything goes well
AP & LJ - many thanks, will have more news later today.
ReplyDeleteOn way to God’S own Country
ReplyDeleteOn the train
. Four seats to myself
Awaiting lunch
This is bliss
Parsley, like all here, I wish Mr P the best, & hope the procedure goes well for him. A difficult few days for you both. Thinking of you.
ReplyDeleteMerci xx
DeleteThank you Cow Girl. Am heading off soon to my nearest branch.
ReplyDeleteGloucester outside of the centre is difficult so hope I can follow my directions. Several major roads into city, and each with Retail Parks, which have names of course but if not local have no meaning in order to remember.
That is so good of you to look that up for me, presumably as a result of me saying I find choice confusing.
Very kind !
LJ - day one and it's already bliss.
Well done.
Hope each other day as good.
Lan Jan 1.14
ReplyDeleteAs a Lancashire lass, I'm glad you recognise it..
Looking forward to meeting you on Wednesday
I am like others Parsley16, in that I hadn't realised Mr P16 is undergoing a treatment/procedure.
ReplyDeleteI join in, though late in the day, wishing you both good health, and that all goes as planned.
My thoughts are with you both.
Thanks Miriam xx
DeleteMerci. π
Deleteparsley. I also send my best wishes for Mr parsley and yourself. I hope the black eyes have gone and you don’t look like you’ve been in the boxing ring.π₯
ReplyDeleteThanks Stasia - just a large scab I'm trying not to pick!
DeleteMr P sounded brighter tonight, op went well this am.
What a gorgeous red sunset tonight. It was so vibrant.
ReplyDeleteLady now has her harness and wore it home in the car.
ReplyDeleteNo problems in fitting it, lots of help from staff at P@H
I chose to go to Cirencester. Further away in miles but easier to get to.
And they had the Ezydog one, but £25 not £90.
It worked, she was comfortable, I'm satisfied.
And thankful for the push and advice.
I woke up at 3.00 am this morning and wondered whether to suggest that you put the harness on Lady before meal times for her to associate it with meal time but you all have it sorted!
DeleteStrange what you think of in the middle of the night!π
Spiceycushion, with all your current physical problems ......?.
DeleteI am amazed.
And touched.
Thank you.
Parsley, glad the op is over and wishing Mr P a speedy recovery.
ReplyDeleteGood news Parsley, I'm sure you'll look after him until he's recovered.
ReplyDeleteWell put Mrs P - totally agree π€
DeleteSo good to hear Parsley, hope the progress continues.
DeleteMrs P
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear that you and Lady have yourselves sorted and that all has gone well. Well done to you both.
Many thanks for all your good wishes, surgeon seems satisfied, visiting this afto, hopefully home on Thursday. π€π‘
ReplyDeleteAll the best to Mr P, ira bientΓ΄t mieux. π
Deleteπ
DeleteParsley, you did exactly what you said you'd do, a report at the end of the day - thanks ! Just musing that communication is often better, more reliable, than it is outside this bubble. Curious, & speaks so well of how things have developed on the blog.
ReplyDeleteGlad all is going well post op. Hope you find Mr P in good spirits this afternoon. I expect both of you feel a bit more relaxed now. Phew !
I am wishing Parsley16 and MrP16 really well.
ReplyDeleteGood Wishes to you both from Miriam Xx
I'm having rather a challenging week : mild lower back stiffness morphed into sciatica. Oh, it jolly well hurts, & makes sleeping difficult. Also, can persist for 6 weeks or more, but maybe I'll get away with less this time, as opposed to early 2018. I'm doing most of the right things to get better.
ReplyDeleteI've had to cancel a number of things, the major one being a a 3 day trip to Edinburgh, where we were going to explore avidly, but, best of all, meeting Gary on the last day ! Such a shame, & poor timing, eh. Moan over, ice pack later...
Oh, hope you're enjoying your time in Yorkshire, Lanjan, & have a good laugh with PtbY, Seasider & CowGirl tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteI have every sympathy Carolyn. Just take 1 day at a time, forget about how long it may take, then it may surprise you. Take good care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteAren't we a load of all crocks? π€£π€£π€£
ReplyDeleteBut what a lot of life's experiences to tell!
Best wishes to all and sundry 'under the weather and hurting.'
xx
In reply to above, sorry to hear of sciatica Carolyn and very sad to have to cancel Edinburgh.
ReplyDeletePleased to say my tummy bug is well on its way out, but I'm hungry after three days of fasting.
Scrambled eggs tomorrow morning, perhaps with the addition of some smoked salmon.
That should make me feel much better.
Parsley, hope Mr P more comfortable today and tomorrow yet more.
A physio who I went to (due to a shoulder tendonitis problem a few years ago now) advised using a hot or cold pack, whichever suits, before doing gentle exercise, increasing this gradually.
ReplyDeleteThis was very helpful + it works. Keeping moving is important, but do so correctly and carefully.
Healing wishes to all poorly bloggers and loved ones - hope you all recover soon.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to the North Yorkshire meet-up in the morning.π€
Greetings from Crete, MrNuts and I are enjoying a week of Cretan culture, including rather more food & wine than is probably wise. Knossos yesterday, Spirolonga (setting of Victoria Hislop’s “The Island “) today, South Coast tomorrow... pleasant company, Radio 4 on iPad all very relaxed π
ReplyDeleteI have many happy memories of Crete! Have a great time KP!
ReplyDeleteWishing everyone “get well soon”. I got sciatica about 18 months ago after a bit of a fall. It was agony so I really feel for you Carolyn. I’ve got to admit a visit to the local physio sorted me out from the major pain and then had to take things gently.
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely hol KP, I’ve never been to Crete. Hope the weather’s still good for you.
I’m heading for Vienna and Prague at the end of the week, really looking forward to it. Of course, not as much as the archers meet up tomoz in North Yorkshire. π☕️π°π
Mme Parsley, is it too soon to breathe sigh of relief? I have been so afraid for you.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn: 6.33
ReplyDeleteI’m so sorry to hear you have been struck with sciatica. I know it can be excruciating and ruin plans for anything you were hoping to do.
Mr A had it badly a couple of years ago and couldn’t even bend forward enough to sit down in his armchair, so I had to bring in a folding chair from the garden with a higher seat and upright back as it was the only thing he could sit on. He was on strong opioid painkillers for a long time and the consultant said he would need a major op. on his spine - but then, magically, one day, the pain just faded away without any treatment and he has been perfectly fine ever since! I believe it is common for sciatica to just clear up on its own but it does take time.
I hope yours will be extra fast! All the best to you π
Zoetrope, have your searches turned up anything of interest yet? I've finally got round to investigating two large bags which have been barring the way to the gas and electricity meters for decades (Mr S was an absolute genius at cramming huge amounts of 'stuff' into very tiny spaces - I could get them out for the meter-readers, but only he knew how to fit them back in).
ReplyDeleteSo far I've found at least a ten-year supply of used bubble wrap, a lifetime's worth of (very) used brown wrapping paper, as well as a vast crumpled sheet patterned with the legend 'Green Shield Stamp gift'(!) - oh, and a brand new stout brown paper bag, three inches wide and about four feet long. If anyone can work out what that was for, answers on a postcard, please.
Oh lor ' Sarnia,..!!
ReplyDeleteKPnuts-Crete ! Crete !! P...ing with rain here so Envious..
Pleased to report that Mr P was "up" in his chair, attached by various tubes/drips including the Green Button morphine boost. Used twice so far. Surgery was definitely necessary, state of the art robot - assisted. π€π€We'll see what tomorrow brings.
Merci Γ toutes et Γ tous ππ
Sarnia
ReplyDeleteHave you found the tin which has a label on it which says
‘String too short to use’?
π€£π€£π€£ I 've got a drawer full of stuff like that, including old colourful elastic bands so old they snap when you go to use them!
DeleteNo, not yet, Lanjan, but if I do, I live in hope that it might contain the missing marriage/ birth certificates!
ReplyDeleteSarnia, re stout bag - a fluorescent tube?? They’re on my mind at the moment as we have some here which I want to replace and two have blown in the last fortnight, fixings and all are kaput. Looks like I will have to do it sooner rather than later.
ReplyDeleteShould have added my good wishes to you in your sorting through all that life laundry. Quite a task you have on your hands, physically and emotionally. Hope you unearth some pleasant surprises as well.
DeleteYes, Seasider, I thought that, but the conundrum is that the bag is in mint condition - it's never had anything in it!
ReplyDeleteThanks for kind commiserations - appreciated.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear Mr P is being looked after with such expertise & care, Parsley. Reassuring for you both at a difficult time. Take care.
ReplyDeleteSympathies Carolyn, with your nasty attack of sciatica - am also susceptible from time to time.
ReplyDelete& yes, keep moving...π’
Have taken up Pilates recently - rediscovering long forgotten bits of anatomy...!! yaroo...
anyone else putting themselves through this??
Mr P update later.
Avec mes remerciements.
I've been doing pilates/yoga blend videos for the last 2 years together with some weight training. I'd had enough of the jumping up and down aerobic lark.
ReplyDeleteI feel strong and supple and at 61 years old I still hit the beach in a bikini!......I may not be 25 anymore...but I'm not dead yet!!!!!!ππππ
Get well soon to all who are feeling poorlyππ
Lively activity on here this morning.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn, agree with others keep moving, and try Tai Chi.
I have had discomfort, numbness and itching in the back of my left thigh for five years, nobody able to identify but all suggested sciatica. This discomfort finally developed into excruciating pain. I finally resorted to massage and low and behold it is one of the branches of the Ham String ( there are three ). Physio gave me some exercises which did not help but have finally worked out for myself how to alleviate it.
Listen to your body and adapt !
I haven't been able to go to Tai Chi classes since the dog arrived, and so admire those like Autumnleaves for being disciplined at home.
Parsley, keep up the good work with MrP. Such a worrying time for you both but your getting through it together.
Sarnia, suggest the long thin brown paper bag was once sent to return an umbrella for repair ? Or something similar.
At least you can get to the meters now.
I have a house like yours, but I am the culprit. And I know very well that I am an exact copy of my dad.
Janice.
ReplyDeleteI'm coming down to Cornwall again on Saturday. I am to be independent in one of the cottages and hope to be able to get to see some of Cornwall. But I am restricted from visiting many places as I will be accompanied by the dog.
Would your daughter be able to suggest dog friendly places ?
I would like to go to at least one of the ' Gardens'.
And are you too far from the Lizard for the possibility of a meet up ? ( if you would like to, of course)
Hello Mrs P, yes the Lizard is rather a long way from us, but my guess is that you will visit your daughter again, and at a time when I am fitter. I am only just, in fear and trepidation, beginning to drive again, so far have managed the mile down to the village by myself twice. It is taking me a lot longer than I thought to regain my energy and strength (doctor again this afternoon!) but hopefully come the Spring..... Also my son has brought his Filipino wife over to visit us, hopefully for an extended holiday as long as our weather doesn't put her off! They are over their jetlag now and I am beginning to get to know her and am helping her adjust to our culture and food which is very very different from her own. She originates from a little island called Ticao, but they are living on the main Masbate island because there are rebels who hold a lot of power on Ticao and my son cannot live there as Westerners can be targeted for ransom. She speaks very good English, but has trouble understanding if I forget to speak slowly. She is learning to bake our British cakes at present. I feel blessed because she is such a gentle sweet person. Just wished they lived closerπ₯
DeleteRe. Dog friendly places. My daughter is more familiar with places for visitors to go up here but Trebah which I went to once with the gardening club is dog friendly and a lovely garden, although Cornish gardens tend to be best in the Spring with the camellias and rhododendrons in flower. Hydrangeas will probably be out there now. Pendennis Castle is nice if you like history and castles and we think is dog friendly, and also the Seal Sanctuary which is not far from the Lizard.
DeleteI’m quite impressed with our hospital. I had a letter from them this morning wanting to do a follow-up on my new hip, now 14 months old. I have to go for an X-ray and fill in a rather lengthy questionnaire about how Im getting on, to send them. Then they will phone me at home on a specified date and time in November to talk about any issues I might have and discuss whether I need to see the consultant again (I shall not!)
ReplyDeleteI think this is a good idea. It saves me, and them committing time for a possibly unecessary outpatient appointment, but ensures I am OK and don’t need further treatment for the hip.
One of the questions on the survey was ‘ Would you have such an operation again, or recommend it to a friend’. My answer? An unqualified YES!
I have had similar from my hosp. via text message to reply.
DeleteI also had to answer a question as to would I recommend the care + procedure I had to others. This was also YES.
PS I have finally seen a Super Beluga. I heard a 'plane, which I knew was low + with a different sound, so I dashed out and there it was, flying over my back garden.
My niece + her partner had a parents evening last night, for their son, a grand nephew of mine.
ReplyDeletePart of his wonderful appraisal was, how loving and helpful he is, with his other class-mates.
Why did I have him totally opposite, as to having a major tantrum, throwing cushions all over the place, kicking furniture, when in my care last weekend?
Talk about Jekyll + Hyde!!
It was fun though...
A good North Yorks meeting today . Much cake was consumed and the conversation flowed.
ReplyDeleteIt was good to meet up with LanJan and put a face to the person.
Pleased!
DeleteI'm so glad the Yorkshire meet up was such a brilliant success.
DeleteI haven't seen anything from Cheshire Cheese for a while, so I hope all is well with her + family.
I have perhaps noticed this more than others, as we live in the same county (but on opposite sides).
Miriam. I was also thinking about Cheshire Cheese and wondered if she was ok.
Deletecarolyn. Poor you suffering and unable to travel to Edinburgh. I do believe sciatica is very painful and physically debilitating and yet you manage to sound upbeat and concerned about others. I do hope you can rearrange your trip to the North Country and meet up with Gary.
ReplyDeleteI once experienced excruciating pain when I pulled the Gluteus Maximus muscle, otherwise known as my rear end or bum and couldn’t even get out of bed.
Look after yourself, chin up, keeping moving take the tablets to hold back the pain.π€Έ♂️π§♀️πππ€
Autumn has arrived!!
ReplyDeleteI went to a farm shop today, and bought some lovely locally produced braising steak, home grown pots for mash + baked pots, wonderful dirty carrots plus a cabbage (still wet as harvested today)...and was really good cost wise.
It was an enjoyable + profitable jaunt out only a short drive away.
Thanks, Stasia ! Not so hard to be upbeat writing, but you wouldn't want to see me or hear the moans...think it's a BIT better, troubled more by the brain deadening tiredness at the mo'. Nothing to what Spicy has suffered for months.
ReplyDeleteHave had a nice Wednesday. Buddy and Dudley went for walkies with Hannah, the dog minder. She is so good with dogs and Buddy practically climbs into her Van (difficult as he is very small!). Last week Dudley was very unsure but today happily went off wagging his tail. Katy pays for this to give me a break and to give the boys chance to mix with other dogs. Hannah and her mum manage about a dozen of them! Gypsy and I went off to a TG committee meeting. She went to sleep under my chair and then walked nearly all the way home. I only had to put her in the pram when we turned into our close! I had got on with things this morning as they are picked up at 8.30 so not much housework on my return and managed to get back to my Art course after a busy few weeks made this impossible. Today just practising various hues of the same colours based on water to paint ratios. Katy has gone to Yoga in Cowes so will do a big shop in Aldi. A simple supper of sausages, mustard mash and leeks in cheese sauce which I made yesterday so all in all an easy day for me! I have also sorted the first two speakers for next year for TG and have a good idea of the remaining ones to be booked. So relaxed but feel have achieved a few things!
ReplyDeleteDudley had a bad day yesterday as he is one of these dogs that rushes to the door barking madly when anyone knocks. The DPD man arrived with a delivery and I went to the door carrying Dud who then went psycho dog to Trev, the delivery man. Hannah has advised keeping Dud well away from the door and if the caller has to wait while I sort him out so be it. I can put him behind the gate in the sunroom while I go to the front door and if he makes a noise at least I won’t be too near to him! Any other advice would be very welcome! Dud goes psycho dog when anyone leaves too and am trying to calm him down when that occurs. We feel if we remain calm it will in time transmit to him but will be a long haul.
Sarnia, 10.24 last night.
ReplyDeleteOh dear, you really put my moanings into perspective. I have found papers pre the 21st century, and a lot from our previous house which we left in 2006, but nothing that compares with what you describe, nor with the associated emotional load or level of importance.
I have been through and thrown out stuff that is no longer needed, but not organised what remains (yet!)
I have lots of other 'bits' that I struggle to know what to do with, can't bear to throw away what could be useful ... but for what??? I'll get to those ... eventually.
Many thanks to all you bloggers who helped to motivate me. I hope to keep going now I have started, and for it to move outside to the garden as well.
I still have quite a few things which came from my parents home, after my Father passed away (2yrs after Mum).
DeleteDo I really want or need them, No. but I still am finding it hard to dispose of these unwanted + irrelevant items, eg a lovely framed map of Venice, a china figurine, a crystal rose bowl. These have absolutley no sentimemtal value to me but I just feel to get rid of them seems somehow detrimental and insensitve.
All they are doing are gathering dust and taking up space, but I am still hesitating as to when or how I dispose of them.
Silly I know.
Zoetrope and Miriam- I feel for you both.
ReplyDeleteI have one box still of my mother's stuff, and a very few small bits from my dad, but I did manage to get rid of most of my mums clothes with the exception of two of my favourite dresses which hang in my wardrobe, plus one summer jumper, probably the last one knitted by her, which I wear.
As for the rest, in storage, much of it for forty years or more, though not previously at the present cost.
It is a problem I do not know how to tackle and am overwhelmed by despite the worry.
I salute you Zoetrope for at the least being motivated.
This has been a sad day for me.
ReplyDeleteMy previous dog was a fear biter.
I kept her and others safe throughout her eleven years, without her ever biting anyone.
A few years after she died the law was changed and since then we see many dogs muzzled, which I find very sad, despite understanding the need for muzzling.
I always swore that if I had a dog that needed to be muzzled I would not have it.
This evening I returned to pets at home and Lady has been fitted with a ' kind' muzzle.
She was not too bad in allowing us to fit it, and I have given another short trial since being home. I understand that she will ( probably) get used to it.
But will I ?
Today we went to our local community field, no other dogs around, I looked into the lower paddock and could not see any cows. We went down the steps and she was running around happily smelling out the squirrels, then from a corner crept three mothers with young calfs and she was off. It was the mother's she was after and focusing on their rear ends which I assume still retained the smell of birth. Round and round, barking madly with me in frantic pursuit. Eventually when one of the mums chased her she came near enough for me to grab her.
Later in the day, I was cleaning and at one point she was out on the side path with the door half closed. I suddenly realised she was not there so grabbed her lead and went up the garden to search for her, but no sign of her. Came back down and deciding she must have jumped the wall, I heard a blast of a car hooter and she came rushing round the corner as the car rushed past her. The driver gave me a thumbs up, clearly having warned her. Later when she was inside but the door was open I picked up the broom and she rushed out and jumped the wall again
When I have cleaned before she has been fine, just continues sleeping while I clean, and she is not at all phased by the hoover either. I can only think that today she associated the broom with attack in the past. Also over all the months she has been with me she has not made any attempt to escape over the wall until this last month.
To cap it all, the new squeaky toy I also bought this evening, was eaten through in just under half an hour. And this one was really robust.
Don't concern yourself, Zoetrope, I don't do emotional baggage - it's only waste paper cluttering the place up. In fact, when I re-read what I'd written the situation struck me as being quite funny. I wonder if that strange new paper bag would be strong enough to hold a yard of ale?
ReplyDeleteπΊ π
DeleteMrs P 11.02, 11.25
ReplyDeleteThat feeling of being overwhelmed, but unable to make a start on something is so horrible. At least my stuff is in the house, so it's easier to decide to work on it for 30 minutes. For you, with stuff in storage, and now being unable to leave Lady, it is much harder.
What a difficult evening for you with Lady. You have both done so well so far.
Miriam, last night,9.29
ReplyDeleteI have read suggestions that it can help to take photos of items before giving them away.
Do you have a good charity shop locally? Then maybe you'd feel that they would be helping others?
Easy to suggest, hard to do.
I do understand how hard it is.
A good compromise Zoetrope but as you say not always so easy to “bite the bullet”.
DeleteGood luck Mrs P and so sorry to red of your stressful time yesterday π
Mrs P, goodness, you have your work cut out. Sorry to hear about yesterday’s challenges. I suppose getting to know Lady more and more will hopefully continue to help you predict her reactions. You do sound very good at that, even though she’s keeping you on your toes.
ReplyDeleteRe the clearing out of stuff, when I cleared my father’s house, now my Yorkshire place, I took some of it down to London and it sat in my spare room for years. Now I am shunting it back in stages. Some of it has been wonderful family history stuff, and as I didn’t know my father (met him a few times) it’s been really interesting to learn. Some stuff is rubbish - old bills etc and now thrown away and a few pieces of furniture are back in his house. I am also sorting my own stuff as well so it’s an ongoing job but our house is looking better and better and Mr S has promised to redecorate as a result! Today’s task is to tidy the stuff that’s arrived in my attic - I have to watch I don’t keep too much because I can spread out in two places.
Lovely trip across the moors yesterday to meet Cowgirl, LanJan and PtbY. I really enjoyed my morning, good to see you all.
Mrs P: do you think there might be a connection between this sudden outburst of escaping from the house and the introduction of the muzzle?
ReplyDeleteMrs P yesterday 11.25
ReplyDeleteI am not sure why you decided to muzzle Lady, but it must be in her best interests , you will I.m sure get used to it as where would she be without you.
I'm sorry to learn she can now get to jump the wall, you may need to put up some strands of wire. The important thing is she came back, which means she is really settled with you. Misty went missing the other day for 4 1/2 hours, she went after rabbit sniffs from the garden which I thought was safe, it is now hopefully. I went out looking as did my neighbour. I was just locking the back door ready to go further afield when there she was sitting looking very sorry for herself AND all chickens intact! She is a sheep chaser, and as we are surrounded by sheep I was very worried, but all was well on that front when she is on the case nothing else matters fortunately.
Why do we have dogs when they give us so much grief!!!
Exactly, CowGirl! It has been suggested that we consult an animal behaviourist over Dudley’s attack mode when we have callers especially delivery men! However it is early days and we are working on keeping him relaxed and advice from Hannah our dog minder and online advice. It is a long process though and if no improvement in the next few months will have to consult an expert. We recently watched a TV program on dogs behaving badly and it gave the impression that the behaviourist achieved miracle results after being with the dog for a day. Even with his expertise it is more than doubtful that he could have turned the dogs around so quickly. It’s not that easy as you, Mrs P along with the rest of us dog owners know only too well! In spite of all we do bond with them and love them which makes it very upsetting when they have a bad day. Bad days are often followed by good ones. Dud was a model dog yesterday after his bad Tuesday so hope this will follow for you. When you come to love them it is so upsetting when they go wrong and my thoughts and hopes are with you.
ReplyDeleteEv I have my doubts about behaviourists, common sense and consistency is what matters in my humble opinion. When Gazza my last dog was at the Dogs Trust, he hated the behaviourist ! We worked it out together.
DeleteCan’t agree more! Am happy we will win through eventually!
DeleteMrs P
ReplyDeleteI forgot to say PLEASE, please be careful around cows and calves, cows like us humans are very protective of their young. Lady is more likely to be unharmed than you, though of course I know you want to protect the cattle and her reputation.
What a lovely day I had yesterday with Lanjan. Got to meet her son in a signal box at goathland station, complete with complimentary cuppa.
ReplyDeleteA lovely time with cowgirl and seasider and cake....mmm cake π°☕️
Then in the afternoon took Lanjan to McArthur Glen outlet and a hobbycraft shop where I got a new jigsaw for the winter evenings........brands that made Britain. Some memorable old tins and packets, haven’t found the packet of izal toilet paper yet... will have to look a bit harder. π
All topped off with a meal in a country pub early evening.
Even managed to get home without killing any wandering sheep over the moor top.
Thanks to the North Yorkshire contingent for making it a memorable day. ππ
Mrs P. Just replied to yours of 12.26 yesterday.π
ReplyDeleteI did wonder if and how well you are feeling now, don't wish to keep asking, but have been thinking of you.
DeleteYes of course in the future sometime.
Your Daughter in law sounds lovely. And so glad you are bonding. So important for you and your son, and of course her.
I had a dear Phillopino friend in the sixties. Her father was an academic. She went home with her darling little girl and was never heard of again of course.
I often think of her and wonder if she survived the revolution.
I have earmarked the garden near Helston and will check the Seal Sanctuary for dog entry. Yes I love castles so thank you for mentioning that one.
Be gentle with yourself Janice. It does take time to recover from serious conditions and is not helped by being impatient, so well done for doing that short drive and not pushing yourself further too soon.
Recovery will come........ and I look forward to meeting sometime in the future.
Mr P now back home - whew. He was really getting stir-crazy.. Very weedy though. Onwards & upwards.
ReplyDeleteIf he was stir crazy in hospital, Parsley, that had to be a good sign of the beginnings of recovery ! I bet he is feeling weak & wobbly, but with your tender ministrations ( wish I could express that in elegant/even acceptable Francais) & being at home, very much hope that will accelerate the process of returning to his normal self.
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear that, I am sure you will feed him up, being at home is the biggest aid to recovery.Good wishes to you both
ReplyDeleteI just know you're all gagging to hear my latest health news ( that sounds SOO like Joy...)
ReplyDeleteI've got shingles, Haven't I ?!
Teach me to self diagnose.
Won't bore you with the details, but have just returned from the surgery, where the Dr.confirmed. Spotted the rash on Monday, but put it down to hot water bottle being too close to the area. Became suspicious when it didn't fade, & looked up shingles. The pictures matched mine ..
Excuse is, the symptoms really did mimic sciatica.
Ah, sorry to hear that Carolyn, sounds miserable, although I see you have retained your sense of humour. Look after yourself.
ReplyDeleteTake care Janice as well, and Parsley, looking after Mr P. Caring can be tiring, especially as you had your own health issues. Warmest to all.π€
Oh dear Carolyn!!
ReplyDeleteYou have even more of my sympathies now!
I know shingles can be horrible. My sister-in-law got it last year, just before she was going for the vaccination. It was all through the summer and she was stuck in bed throughout the heat, feeling very miserable.
I hope you will be seeing your GP and getting some good painkillers and anything else he can prescribe to help.
Perhaps you were not old enough to qualify for the vaccination, but I am very glad Mr A and I have had ours. I wonder if having shingles now will immunisΓ© you against a further dose? It might be worth checking with the doctor. Meanwhile, I hope you manage to stay reasonably comfortable and recover as quickly as possible.
Thanks Seasider & AP ! AP(2.54), Dr. prescribed antiviral meds( I think they're also meant to immunise for the future as well) + a different sort of painkiller to take at night. Your poor S in L. I hope it doesn't as long for me, but was warned the pain would persist after the rash & blisters faded.
ReplyDeletePoor you Carolyn. I really hope you feel better soon and don’t experience persistent post-viral neuralgia.
ReplyDeleteI hope everyone else’s problems are resolving.
I am still enjoying my holiday and learning lots of Greek/Cretan history, both ancient and modern from our incredibly knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide.
My husband and I did the walk along the Samaria Gorge but not the whole walk. We took a boat ride to the southern end and then just walked part the way up and back. It was very hot and we had to wring our hats out in the stream and put them on to keep cool. Afterwards we drank a litre of grapefruit juice between us! If you do the whole walk you have to start out very early in the morning or you would sizzle! Hope you are relaxing and not dreaming of doing something so foolhardy, KP!!
ReplyDeleteHome now after a wonderful Break in Yorkshire.
ReplyDeletePtbY was brilliant yesterday.
She collected me from the hotel at 8:45 am and deposited me back there almost 12 hours later!
I had a wonderful time which started as mentioned earlier by meeting Cowgirl and Seasider.
From the start it was good company, eating , more great company and then retail therapy and more eating .
Excellent!
Carolyn ,how awful for you.
ReplyDeleteI know it can be very painful.
The injections cost the NHS Service £100 I am told so only people of certain ages are allowed to have them.
Yes self diagnosis is not really a good thing to do.
carolyn. Herpes Varicella Zoster virus. I can only imagine how poorly you must be feeling. Shingles is a painful π infection so please take care, and let’s hope the medication helps and your immune system get back on track pronto.
ReplyDeleteI am sending warm positive thoughts.
KPnuts. I am walking in the sunshine with you, a moment of imaginary escapism from the doom and gloom of the UK.
ReplyDeleteparsley. I’m sure you will be the perfect chef and nurse to Mrp.
Shingles can be nasty, but not always so.
ReplyDeleteLook after yourself Caroline.
I remember, when I was a working Pharmacist, a regular client came in on a Saturday morning, asking for something for a rash on her husbands back. I asked a few questions, then directed her hubbie to the out of hours GP. I was thanked gratefully, on the Monday morning, as it was Shingles (which I suspected) He started the anti-viral meds straight away, and he had no real problems.
Mr P is home ππ» π€ wishing him a speedy recovery!
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear of others recent health issues and wish you all well soon ♥️ Hope it helps to share your feelings with us all be they of frustration or at times worry but best of all happiness when better days return π
Mrs P I hope Lady is more settled today - and you! What a day you had....
Lanjan what a super trip you had (First Class rail travel) great ⭐️ and a really enjoyable TA meet up. Who would have envisaged such happenings in our BBC days!
Oh Carolyn! So sorry to hear about the shingles. My GP told me off last visit for self-diagnosing! Trouble is there are so many symptons that match on the net or in books. My Dad refused to have any medical books or even a thermometre in the house. He said that we would always be imagining the most dreadful illnesses! π
ReplyDeleteI had the shingles jab last winter at the same time as my flu injection and was told it was a one off, unlie the flu which is new every year.
Because of the steroids I have been told to steer clear of chicken pox and shingle sufferers ut I have it in on my list of questions to ask the consultant if the injection is protecting me at the moment?
Got a call from the surgery today to call me in for this year's flu jab so will have to see if I can that this year. Oh dear!
Up till now I have been most concerned about my exceedingly fat face and the weight I have put on which took me nearly a year to lose!
Best wishes to all invalids!
Keep taking the tablets! πππ