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Life outside Ambridge

Comments

  1. My newest grand-niece (3 weeks old yesterday) now has a full leg in plaster. This is to correct her foot problem. The plaster gets changed every week now, and is given a full bath before redoing.
    All will be fine, and she will be out of plaster in 8 weeks time.
    It is not a concern, as the hospital staff are well used to this common problem.
    I am back applauding the NHS

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  2. PS Have just read the heading.

    Gary, You are a Genious. ✔✔

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  3. Yes we did, we did !
    Thanks, Gary, for both these shiny new blogs.
    I hope you had a great weekend with friends - a little gentle biking, plus lots of talk & heavy drinking....

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    1. Had a great weekend thanks - but it turned out to be heavy biking and gentle drinking!

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  4. Oh dear, guilty as charged. You see what happen when you leave us for even 2 days Gary?
    ๐Ÿ˜‚

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    1. You wasn't - we all just posted views in a subtle way, without causing angst nor offence.
      It was a date in Modern History, so had to be mentioned.
      It was kept very civil.

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    2. Indeed - did Ambridge make mention, probably tonight.

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  5. Me again.. Sorry.
    I have just caught up with the last talks about 'phone + e-mail scams.
    I was inundated with these for months, but luckily, these are very seldom now.
    I still get e-mail ones, but can easily spot them.
    What worries me, are those who don't and so get drawn in.
    I always keep all my shopping receipts for a month, and check my bank account every 2 days, (yes on-line banking) to just check that all is as it should be.




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  6. So the BBC licence fee is going up yet again, at the same time, as when the over 70's, will now have to pay for this once again.
    I am not being political, but it is very harsh.



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  7. Just asked (on the wrong blog ๐Ÿ™„)Archerphile how your sons unexpected visit went!

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  8. May I tell you an uplifting story?
    Are you sitting comfortably?
    Then I’ll begin.
    It has taken me over a month to check my Christmas card list and saw that I hadn’t received a card from a former Colleague who is in her 90s and who before I had a car used to take me to school in her’s.
    I kept telephoning and got no reply.
    She lives over200 miles away and I didn’t know how I could find out whether she was alright.
    I checked to see if her house had been sold.
    It hadn’t.
    On Friday ,I telephoned the local Estate Agent and said that I didn’t want to buy,rent or sell a house but wondered if there was someone who would care to do a “Miss Marple”
    The lady I spoke to told me to leave it with her and she would make a few ‘phone calls.
    On Saturday she phoned again and said she was making a few more.
    This morning she ‘phoned to say that a man who was doing some work for them said that he was my friend’s neighbour .
    She gave me his phone number and I spent about half an hour chatting to him.
    He sounds lovely(Liverpool Supporter so I am not surprised)
    A neighbour noticed milk bottles on her doorstep and managed to get into the house (she has a key safe)and found her collapsed on the floor .
    She was taken to hospital and now she is in a Convalescent Home .
    She hopes to be back home soon.
    Whilst she has been away the neighbours have done some repairs to the house,
    changed her bedding and washed her dishes and generally made it look good.
    They have managed to arrange that when she returns she will have an alarm round her neck which she can press if she needs help and that Carers will come in three times a day.
    Aren’t folk great?
    It has given me a warm feeling all day.




    I

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    1. Thst is a wonderful story, Lanjan ! Really glad you told us. Not everyone would have pursued this,but, of course, of course, you would ๐Ÿ˜Š How rewarding.

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    2. How wonderful Lanjan ๐Ÿค—
      “As you sew sew shall you reap” as this lovely lady is finding out. From you her loyal friend doing your Miss Marple to her lovely neighbours (not forgetting the very helpful Estate Agent). I feel most uplifted thank you for sharing ๐Ÿค—

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  9. I am in touch with Sarnia, and as a result of her post yesterday, the replies to ask her to stay with us, and an email from her last night, I am posting this in the form of an explanation.
    I am aware Gary of your heading to this blog, and hope that you will allow this post, in understanding that it is a consequence of posts during recent days, as well as my personal concerns that any one of us should be fearful of the unintended consequences of recent legislation as well as being upset ( albeit without rancour or offense) by attitudes expressed on this blog by some of us.

    Sarnia is very concerned for her own status due to her understanding of some of the legislation passed when T May was Home Secretary and the consequences that have arisen as a result since.
    She is not angry or offended but did feel that some of us, including myself, were perhaps somewhat indulgent in our exchanges about the exit from the E U last week, by expressing a degree of exultation at the date of departure.
    Whether we feel personally that this was so or not, I understand from my conversation with her that she has genuine and relevant concerns for herself as a British citizen.

    Whilst married to an Englishman she felt safe.
    As his widow she fears that her birth here and her residence for most of her life may not be considered relevant by the immigration authorities.
    This has been recorded as the case for a number of individuals, as evidenced by some from the West Indies.
    Apparently the Chanel Islands status is not yet clear and therefore previous residents of the CI status may not be either.
    Sarnia is also aware of the Home Office ' picking off ' those whose status of British citizenship is questionable.
    There are apparently a number of religious organisations petitioning the government about the issues that I have outlined here, and it would seem that if such organisations consider it necessary to do so, there must be genuine concern for many.

    I repeat, I am posting this on behalf of Sarnia who does not feel able to give her complicated reasons at this time herself.
    And I hope all will understand and not be offended themselves, but rather understand that unintended consequences of the UK decision to leave the EU puts at least one of us on this blog in fear of being deported.

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    1. Mrs P thank you for your post on behalf of our virtual friend Sarnia. What an awful situation she now finds herself in due to the recent loss of her husband. She will be in my thoughts and ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ that all will be well for her.

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  10. LanJan, you are an inspiration and a fellow traveler.
    I would have done the same re the estate agents.
    All power to the lady's neighbours, your new friend, the Liverpool supporter, and the estate agent who made the enquiries on your behalf.

    Yes a heartwarming story.

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  11. Thank you, Mrs P, for enlightening us about Sarnia's situation. All is clear now & I can understand why she didn't want to go into detail. The concern sounds very real, & I hope fairness, reason & basic humanity prevails for all those suffering uncertainty about their future here.

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    1. I second your hopes Carolyn and thank you Lady R.
      I hope Sarnia reads your posts.
      None of us, remainders or leavers were or are yet to understand the collateral damage that might arise.

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  12. Gary,
    Your previous 'advice' regarding no politics has been on my mind since Friday . I didn't want to say anything however because someone had previously said they would only take' instructions' from yourself as moderator.
    I hope we can all behave ourselves now you are back๐Ÿ˜„

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  13. Best wishes to Sarnia and will be thinking of you. I had always thought the Channel Islands were considered part of Uk although I think they are a protectorate. It would be awful if these citizens were deported in spite of living here for years and making their life here. I hope not.

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  14. Many thanks to Mrs P for your explanation re our friend Sarnia. I had not realised her connection with the C. Islands. I can certainly understand her worries, especially after all she has been through in the last year or two. I sincerely hope her family can do some investigating for her and finally put her mind to rest. If you are communicating with her again please give her my very good wishes and hopes that she will soon feel more settled and less worried soon.

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  15. Lanjan
    You have been a true friend and deserve an accolade for being so innovative in trying to help. I should never have thought of ringing an Estate Agent. Good thinking! And hopefully a happy outcome for your old friend. Who knows what might have happened if you had not been so persistent.

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  16. Sarnia, I can only hope that all your worries and fears are put to rest as soon as possible. xx

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  17. What a selfish dumbo I am. Thanks MrsP.
    Sarnia I do apologise I didn’t read your comment and reiterate the supportive comments from your friends on the blog.
    It would seem that your beautiful islands certainly are in a precarious political situation. Your fears maybe justified, but I believe something will be sorted, the government wouldn’t want to let go of its financial treasure.
    Please continue to read and participate, I have always appreciated your thoughts and insights.

    Lanjan. I am sending you a virtual Vera hat ๐Ÿ‘’to commend you on you investigative Endeavour.
    ๐Ÿ”Ž๐Ÿ•ต๐Ÿป‍♀️

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  18. Thank you for your response to my Miss. Marple tale.
    Mary was ,as I said ,a colleague who kindly gave me a lift to school.
    Until she retired I called her Miss H......
    We just sent Christmas cards every year.
    The point I was trying to make was to highlight the kindness of two people I have never met.
    However when I phoned the Convalescent Home I was given the third degree (not Health and Safe ty, the other one they quote at you. ....data protection )
    Who was I ?
    Why did I want to get in touch with her?
    No they didn’t have anyone with the name of a Mary H but they did have a Gladys H....
    I said “ Well if my first name was Gladys and my second name was Mary I would call myself Mary, wouldn’t you.”
    Did she think that was the case?
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    “I wouldn’t know”
    Never mind.
    Letter will be posted there today and I am sure it will be fine.


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  19. Sarnia, so sorry to hear about your situation. Thinking of you and hoping it is resolved for you very quickly. ๐Ÿ™Hoping also that you will feel able to stay with the blog.

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  20. I loved a post by Archerphile on the other blog, in that her son went to Whitchurch, ie if it the Shropshire one.
    This is where my ex bro-in-law lives, who is the father of 3 of my nieces and is only a 30min drive away.
    It is lovely how places are known by others, in a un-known way.

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  21. I am £5 better off tonight.๐Ÿ˜
    There was a knock on the door, would I do a survey about a car, driving + maintenance?
    I agreed, and it was so much fun.
    I am sure my answers will upset the statistics, as I know nothing, and my car has a very low mileadge (9000 miles in 5 years).
    All I know, is how to drive my car, how to open the bonnet to top up the screen wash, and the 'phone numbers for the garage + AA, if I need help!
    Typical female driver ๐Ÿ˜

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    1. I remember when I got my first car ..a second hand Mini Cooper in 1976. It was mustard..or as they called it "gold". My dad taught me the basics of maintenance. .how to check the water in the radiator, oil and how to dry out the spark plugs and distributed cap in the oven.
      Now cars are all electronic and you now need an expert to change something as simple a bulb in the headlights. The days of people "tinkering" under the bonnet no longer apply to cars today.
      My dad even showed me how to use an old pair of tights to replace a broken belt๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

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    2. Autumnleaves: Mustard mini............Harvest Gold I believe! ๐Ÿค”

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    3. ๐Ÿ˜ƒ๐Ÿ˜ƒthat's it BB....thanks

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    4. My next car will be a hybrid - part elecrtic and part fuel. Will it be this year, no idea yet.

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  22. Miriam : 3.52

    Oh no, not the Shropshire Whitchurch - the Hampshire one with the famous Silk Mill! It’s only about 8 miles away from me, which is why son was able to visit daughter & family.
    Did you know there are 11 Whitchurches in Britain and once a year they gather together for a celebration day with games, competitions, festivities and food.
    Last year it was our Whitchurch that was the host. Granddaughter Rosie was delighted to win the preserves competition with her Blackcurrant Jam!

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  23. I don’t think feminists would like you to refer to a woman who doesn’t know a lot about driving as “a typical woman driver” Miriam.5:57pm

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    1. AP we did not knows this (but probably should have) very interesting and well done to Rosie ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿป

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  24. I was saying that tongue in cheek,Miriam.
    I am not a feminist.


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  25. I am a feminist and know nothing about ๐Ÿš˜ cars. My car is completely computerised, is keyless and with no handbrake. I nearly had a nervous breakdown when I first drove it out of the garage. The instruction manual is the size of a large textbook and I opened it once to find out how to change the ⏰ clock. I don’t really need to know about the inner workings as the computer will let me know if the tyre pressure is low, when it needs a service etc. Still can’t fathom out how to do The clock, so am currently 1 hour ahead. It will right itself at the end of March. It is a European car.

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  26. Mrs P 8:07pm.
    I hope that Sarnia’s fears are groundless but as Sarnia is not likely to be reading the blog it is good that you are able to help her and also pass on the good wishes of her friends at Archersfan.

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  27. Stasia, when I went recently to the hospital about the abscess on my gum, the Consultant patiently explained everything to me and then said.
    “Don’t worry.
    It is like when you take a car in for Service ,they can tell you anything and you have to trust that they know what they are talking about”

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  28. I too am a feminist but like Stasia am hopelessly ignorant ( by choice, I'm perfectly capable) about my car.
    I have managed to do the clock but still don't know where the fog light is. Mine is not computerised.
    I have a huge problem reading small print. I also have a daughter who is very good at small print, so I used her as an aid when she was around. Later I had a partner who 'lived' for the small print of everything. Now I have nobody, so my oven is still a matter of switch it on for basic and nothing else. No idea how to use the grill if I needed it.
    I did take a course in basic car maintenance when I was about twenty five, and knew that I was never going to get my hands black and oily.

    I believe that Sarnia may still be reading the blog and so please direct any messages directly to her.

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  29. On the BBC news last night a group of children was being interviewed by a Reporter who kept referring to them as “kids”.
    Am I alone in hating the way many people refer to children as if they were baby goats?

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  30. At last a nice mild non windy day. Had a lovely afternoon cutting back stuff in the garden. Coffee and tipping point time now with my first gardening bad back of the season. ๐Ÿ˜Š☕️

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    1. I spent the day in the garden too PtbY, got loads of stuff done!

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    2. Well Done! This was what I had planned for today, but it sadly, did not happen. This was due to a meeting up for an unexpected "Ladies who Lunch" event.
      I was very good, as I only had a bowl of a very tasty vegetable soup, with a crusty wholemeal roll (with spread not butter) and a water + lime, to drink. It is obvious, my cholesterol blood test is next week!
      Fish, turkey + chicken, with lots of veg. is my diet for the next week.
      I will miss my crisps and my chips, but thankfully, there are no Christmas chocs left.


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  31. Just a quick question - what is the tastier - turkey sausages or quorn/similar??

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    1. Miriam. None of the above. As far as I’m concerned.
      I have never seen turkey sausages and as it is a dry meat it must therefore contain a fair amount of fat to compensate.
      Do you make your own?

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    2. We have a local producteur who makes his own 'saucisses de volaille'-delicious !

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    3. Perhaps I can make "turkey patties" as an alternative to sausages
      I have some 2% turkey mince in the freezer. This could be a good substitute for sausages, but much more time needed๐Ÿ˜ฃ

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    4. That is a great suggestion. My thinking + creative hat, is being put on..I want to make a casserole tomorrow, which is celery, carrot, onion, tomato, garlic + mixed beans with stock and herbs. I usually do with sausages, but turkey crepinettes, sounds a wonderful alternative.
      Thanks Parsley16.

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  32. My post-1st divorce present to myself was an MGBGT in Blaze aka British Leyland orange.. also did the maintenance course which I enjoyed. Amazing how many baby cellos one could fit in!

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    1. I always wanted a Triumph "Stag", but sadly was always well out of my price range ๐Ÿ˜ญ

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  33. Get eating butter ,Miriam.
    You can’t eat whole meal bread with anything else.
    I am a pretend veggie except when it comes to stew and sausages
    Only the best prize winning ones of course.
    I wondered why Mr LJ used to say he would go to the butcher’s for the meat .
    I went along with him last week
    It costs a fortune.
    Thanks for mentioning stew by the way
    We can have that tomorrow.

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    1. Yes I am very careful where I buy my meat from. It has to local produced or where I know it has come from.
      I have some wonderful Aberdeen Angus braising steak in the freezer.
      Costly, yes, but I pad it out with veg. pulses such as lentils + beans with loads of fresh, local veg.
      Turkey mince comes from the s/market.

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  34. Thinking sbout The Bull.
    A pub in a village not far from me, was taken over and made into a "gastro pub" with a wonderful + fabulous restaurant, in a new conservatory type extension.
    The name was kept the same, as was an old bar, which has been kept in it's original form (wooden settles, an open fire, the tables..). The locals + farmers, still have their own place to meet up, play dominos, bar skittles etc. and their own personal tankards, are still hanging in this bar.
    It is the best of both worlds, which The Bull could well embrace + do something similar.

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  35. Had my second physio session today and am very pleased to say they think I’ve made great progress in two weeks. I could do all the exercises to the maximum angles (they use a giant plastic protractor to measure how straight I get my leg, and how far back I can bend it.
    I now have more to do, involving stair stepping up and down, squats and other such inelegant things.
    Walked back to car in car park instead of being picked up at the door and did a mini walk around local Lidl on way home. Now completely exhausted but very happy.
    PROGRESS! ๐Ÿ˜ƒ

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    1. Brilliant news. Keep Up with the good work. It's onwards + upwards.
      What wonderful after care, you are getting.
      The London Marathon??

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    2. As I have said before, my "ex" Bro in Law, (67 years of age), when he was 6 weeks after his knee replacement - was able to walk 3 miles a day!
      Every-one is different though.
      You are doing so well and it's looking so positive. ๐Ÿ˜

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  36. Great news Archerphile and well done ๐Ÿ‘
    I am due to have a lower front tooth filled on Friday and now during tonight’s meal I have somehow broken a piece off another lower one will
    phone and advise tomorrow.
    Oh well it’s only money๐Ÿ˜ฑ

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    1. What were you eating - or were you doing as I do, chewing on a chop bone!
      Why waste tasty morsels.

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    2. Pork steak Miriam with crispy pots and salad- but I did have a gorgeous baguette yesterday and I may have set off something weak and ready to go anyway ๐Ÿคญ

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  37. Congratulations, Archerphile ! You've persisted through the pain ( must have cursed those exercises at times !), but how rewarding to get the good results. Go to the top of the class ! ๐Ÿ˜

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    1. Thank you one and all. Sorry for being a bit of a show-off but I am amazed and delighted with progress ...... so far.

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    2. Deservedly so, Archerphile. Well done๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ‘

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  38. Archerphile. You’ll be known as Knees Up Mother Archerphile. Keep on going, won’t be long before you can throw a way the stick.

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    1. ๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚๐Ÿ˜‚. Mind you, I really paid for it last night. Dreadful night in pain and resorted to sofa to try to get some sleep. Must curb the enthusiasm today!

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    2. I really feel for you AP but it is such early days when I guess the pain level will be at its height (just think of all the healing needed inside) as well as the trauma of your ๐Ÿฆตexercise routines. Very draining though and sending you my virtual support ๐Ÿฅฐ ๐Ÿ’

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  39. Lady R: good luck with the teeth today! I think I’d rather have another knee op than visit the dentist, have been terrified since I was 5 yrs old. Hope yours manages to sort things out painlessly for you!

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    1. Sorry, that should have been ‘tomorrow’ not today.

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    2. Thank you for your dental wishes AP. When I was young I also was terrified but of later years with dentists becoming much more “human” shall I say I am now fine.

      iPad users‼️An IOS software update 13.3.1 has arrived is anyone else having trouble with it downloading? I have automatic update set to on to load overnight with plenty of charge in battery but two nights on and still not loaded. Although I think once before it took three. See what tomorrow brings....

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    3. Ok I’ve solved my own problem -I forgot ๐Ÿ™„ yet again to take off my do not disturb overnight mode. Pretty sure that’s it. So iPad tonight and phone tomorrow night ๐Ÿค—

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  40. Sarnia. I am sending positive thoughts. Keep reading. At least we can try and give a laugh.

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  41. I am having the most glamorous day imaginable. I am sewing back on about 2 years worth of fallen off buttons! Exciting or what?

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    1. Would you fancy sewing on a whole load of Scout badges onto grandson’s Scout blanket please Gary. I stupidly volunteered to do it whilst recovering - wish I hadn’t now!

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  42. Yes, remember the sausages too! Nowadays with gluten free daughter I have gf frozen sausage from Tesco but actually they are very nice!

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  43. Good grief that's desperate GG, can I send you mine..?!

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  44. It was a very frosty start today, but what a lovely + crisp, sunny day.
    Still no gardening ๐Ÿ˜ฃ as I had to be else-where.
    How late the sun disappears now. The only problem is, glorious sunshine comes directly into my lounge, and so shows up how dirty my windows are!

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    1. PS. I have changed my evening meal plans
      I bought some lovely
      lambs liver today, which I am making into "Venetian Liver".
      Probably not low fat/low cholesterol - but it will be tasty.

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  45. May I ask a question, to all who have had knee replacements.
    Was anything said about how soon some-one can take up swimming again, after the op?
    I ask this, as some-one I know (age 68yrs) who is having trouble walking, is still able to drive, (an automatic), and is still swimming 20 lengths a day. This person has deferred the knee op, as is afraid they will not be able to swim afterwards.
    Any thoughts or comments will be helpful.

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    1. As Mrs P has mentioned below Google does indeed have the answer. As swimming is a non weight bearing exercise possible to resume after 3-6 weeks post op but MUST be discussed with ones own consultant/ physio before doing so! Therefore it appears your friend will not have to forgo her favourite exercise for too long Miriam ๐Ÿค—

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  46. I am watching the Drama channel - As Time Goes By - with Lionel + Jean on their Wedding Day.
    I might have to miss TA tonight.

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  47. Swimming never mentioned Miriam, and as I don't swim I cannot say.
    I would think though that Mr Google might be able to give some guidance.

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    1. I just thought, that some more personal information, might have given a different perspective, rather than "Dr. Google".
      It was just an idea at the time.
      Sorry.

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  48. How sad to hear about Kirk Douglas.
    But at 103yrs, he has done well.

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  49. You can watch the movies of the "golden age of Hollywood" again and again...the 30s 40s 50s and 60s. classics.
    Then you watch the films of today and you wonder why you even bothered.

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  50. I agree Autumnleaves
    Plus the women of yesteryear were really beautiful.
    I am thinking of Ingrid Bergman,GreerGarson,Olivia de Havilland ,Vivienne Leigh to name but four.

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    1. Not only beautiful Lanjan, but also talented...Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn, Sofia Loren, Doris Day..the list is endless

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    2. I just love "Roman Holiday".

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    3. During a rainy day on holiday In Croatia this summer we managed to find a channel that we could understand..they were broadcasting Hitchcock's Rear Window. .what a treat we were riveted even though we've seen the film countless times.
      Halfway during the film the Sun came back out. .but the beach would have to wait until we finished the film..priorities!

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  51. Couldn't disagree more ! Acting is so much better today, & cinematography.

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  52. You are right about cinematography,Carolyn but I still think the acting in some of the films was equally as good years ago.
    When Anne Hathaway got an Oscar for Les Miserables I was amazed.
    I know I have said this before that sometimes they should not do a new version of a film.
    Can you imagine remaking “Brief Encounter.”.?
    What about “Goodbye Mr Chips?”
    The new version of “Far from the madding crowd” was terrible in comparison to the Julie Christie,Terence Stamp,Peter Finch one. i m o
    Several of us have agreed about The Railway Children -“daddy my daddy.”
    Re Kirk Douglas
    103 isn’t a bad age.
    Most folk would no doubt settle for that
    I think Olivia de Havilland is still alive
    I think she is the only star of “Gone with the Wind” who is.
    Mind you it was made in the late. 1930s so I am not surprised.



    ,.




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    1. I had such a crush on Terence Stamp then.๐Ÿ’”๐Ÿ’”

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  53. Ooh me too,Autumn leaves but then I transferred my affection to Clint Eastwood .

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  54. They did remake Brief Encounter with Sophia Loren as theCelia character. Sophia is a wonderful actress but a suburban housewife? Can you imagine?!! I love Fred Astaire especially with Rita Hayworth but they only made two films together. Casablanca takes some beating and was appalled when Tesco took the heart wrenching final scene between Ingrid and Humphrey dubbing in their own advertising! Sacrilege!! Love James Stewart in all his films especially Wonderful Life! The world is poorer without them all but what a legacy they left behind!

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  55. Miriam : re swimming and knees.
    My consultant said swimming is an excellent exercise for both hip and knee replacement patients because it is non- weight bearing . In fact I had a session in the hydrotherapy pool before coming home - not exactly swimming, but walking through the water and exercising . But, as Lady R said, full blown swimming not until allowed by the doctor , as with driving.

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  56. I do aqua aerobics at the local GGables and then roast myself in the sauna. It is a wonderful therapy for the bones and aches and pain.

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  57. Great minds,Stasia.
    I decided to do Aquarobics to help with my sciatica and went along to the Heath Club for a Session.
    It lasted 3/4 hour and in truth was a bit much for me so yesterday I went along and did my own work out in the slow lane of the pool.
    I can’t jump, run ,hop or skip normally but by golly I can in water .
    I don’t care what I looked like but I had a most enjoyable time running on the spot ,kicking out etc
    Then of course I had the wonderful large jacuzzi and the steam room and sauna to enjoy.
    Until early December I never would have contemplated joining a Health Club but I can certainly recommend them now.
    What with that and the acupuncture I can walk without a stick now.
    Brilliant.

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    1. Bravo LJ ๐Ÿ‘‹wish there was something like that near us, too far out in the sticks, struggling with back pain after doing something weird bending over to wash my hair..!! Ostรฉopathe mardi..

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  58. I am with others as to films with Grace Kelly...Rear Window (this has a 5☆ rating), To Catch a Thief, High Society.
    Just don't get me started on the Hepburns!!

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  59. Thanks for the replies re swimming after a knee replacement. I have passed these on, in a very subtle way. I think that person should get the knee done asap.but I have to be very careful in what+how I say things. It comes down to that individual + their life-style, after all.
    Replies were very much appreciated, and that is what is so great on this "page". Get honest + truthful answers. ✔✔

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  60. My annual gas + fire service was done today. What a wonderful engineer - who took all the "coals" out of the fire, vaccumed it out, cleaned the inside of the glass front, and then put it all back, so is in showroom condition.
    When I do my feedback form, he will get a 10++ rating for his, not only care of my home, but his attitutude and most importantly, his very thorough work. He was hear for well over an hour.

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    Replies
    1. PS He found a problem with a seal in the boiler, which could have started leaking fumes. This was immediatly replaced.
      At least I can sleep safe + well, knowing all is well.

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    2. A great day then Miriam it’s very satisfying when you are able to genuinely praise someone’s work ๐Ÿค—

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  61. Stasia, Lanjan - lots of applause for aquarobics, the only form of exercise, aside from walking, I actually like ! Lapsed for 10 years, because of this & that, but have recently taken up again, it's SO energising, how could I have stopped for so long ? ( luckily for me, Parsley, the pool is only a brisk walk away)

    Good for you, Lanjan; you've picked up on some of the exercises, so you can do them at your own pace & timing when going for a swim. Agree, no point in feeling self conscious - who's looking ?!

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  62. I am off to look for a local aquarobics class. I can't swim, but this is due to my having, such short sight, as I just couldn't see and I couldn't wear my glasses or "contacts". Now these are no more - I might just take "the plunge" - pardon the pun!
    I think I still have a swim costume which will fit.

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    Replies
    1. Miriam. I can’t swim, but I do enjoy exercising in the water. I have aqua dumbbells, light as a feather but in the water become very heavy. They also act as floats, so as long as I keep hold of them, I won’t sink.
      Lanjan, carolyn. I hate the gym, tried it a few times! Then discovered the pool etc! Now I love going and relaxing and letting the stresses fade away.

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    2. My only concern is that, I am having an eczema "flare up" at the moment, which I think is "statin" induced. It is too much of a coincidence, that this started 2 months after starting taking. I will wait to see what my blood tests (next week) show before taking this further with GP. Oh dear, I have waffled, but I worry if the "chlorine" in a pool will cause more skin problems.

      Sorry, I am waffling, yet again.
      I must keep my posts, far more concise + to the point. I will try ๐Ÿคž

      Delete
  63. LadyR, your highness. How it go at the dentist this morning?
    Hope all is sorted and and you are biting fit again.

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    Replies
    1. I did reply to your kind post stasia - where has it gone ๐Ÿ™„ all went well thank you, as I have posted on the wrong blog!!!
      “Your highness” I think not (no need for a virtual curtsy) ๐Ÿคฃ

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  64. Yesterday I saw a lovely photo in the newspaper of a group of women poolside in Majorca.
    There weren't trout pouts, fillers, botox, hair extensions or fake tans.
    They were just lovely ladies enjoying the sunshine. ..who were they?
    Well it was posted by Barbara Knox of coronation street showing the female cast to mark the 10,000 episode.
    There was Barbara of course aka Rita , Mavis, Deirdre, Bet, Betty....by the way if you havnt heard Betty Driver's Desert Island Discs then check it out ..its a tearjerker...Emily Nugent......and then there was an attractive women on the right who i didnt recognize until i read the caption.....it was Jean Alexander aka Hilda Ogden. I didn't recognise her without her curlers and pinny.
    They were beautiful most of them no longer with us.. but brought to us the not only the best years of Coronation St. But also the best examples of womanhood.๐Ÿ’•

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As a Corrie lover - where do I find this photo?
      I am intrigued with the classic Coronation Street, which is on ITV3 in the afternoon. I record it, and watch later, about now.
      It is so relevant to the present stories, as it shows why Daniel + Emily, are now on the "Street" with their history, as to their origins.
      There is also a comparison with some of the stories:- Alf/Sally both as Mayors, Don/Jack both losing a limb and how they adapted.

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    2. It was in the daily mail yesterday Miriam it was a lovely photo from the 70s

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    3. Oh I forgot..Annie Walker was in it too

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    4. Ah those were the days Autumnleaves ⭐️

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  65. My dentist visit is on the other (wrong) blog - apologies!

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  66. Stasia .... my fri cocktail is whisky, triple sec, a drop of angusturos bitters. (Passed spelling!) the juice of an orange. Oh plus 3 cocktail cherries and 2 ice cubes.
    Managed to hit the spot. ๐Ÿ˜Š๐Ÿธ

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    Replies
    1. Friday night is fish or a fishcake, with chips or potatoe croquettes, along with tomatoes (cooked with chilli flakes + basil, with a splash of olive oil).
      ....and a "Scruff" + T.

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  67. No more "drivel" from me tonight.
    But, tomorrow is another day ๐Ÿคฃ๐Ÿคฃ
    Will I post as usual - probably.
    I am an addict! ...and I enjoy reading the many posts from all here.
    Until tomorrow - Miriam XX

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  68. Lady R - so glad to hear your dental appointment was successful and pain free. If your dentist is so good I might ask for a recommendation before I have to go again - can’t be a million miles away from me, unless you go up to London.
    Bit of a confession here - I have had awful trouble with my teeth all my life and some excruciating experiences (including have a tooth with an abcess underneath pulled out without anaesthetic and 2 very painful root canal treatments) which is why I was so terrified.
    Consequently I started having to have any work done under sedation, not available on NHS, so very expensive. Eventually my dentist persuaded me to have an extraction with just local anaesthetic and it wasn’t too bad. So each time I needed extensive work on a back tooth I opted to have it removed rather than messed about with ....... which has left me with just my front teeth and no molars. They do everything, biting, chewing etc but they are wearing down a bit. Fortunately it doesn’t show too much unless I smile very wildly, and I have decided that when they eventually wear out it will be dentures for me - no implants, bridges, crowns or other extensive work unless I can find a dentist that will guarantee absolutely no pain!!

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  69. Archerphile,
    I am due to go to the dentist on Monday to have a new bridge fitted.
    If it is as good as the last one I had done I will be well pleased.
    The abscess that was removed recently (like you Archerphile without anaesthetic) somehow caused a tooth to crack hence the need for a new bridge.
    That was done at the hospital.
    I am spending some of my children’s inheritance on having it done with their blessing.







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  70. Archerphile I have to tell you that the dentist we use is private because the firm I worked for had a scheme we could join.
    At first the dentist we used was available as NHS & Private but when new Government contracts came out many decided to drop out. At that time the dentist we were using we did not want to lose as he too was very good. For a time he was an Ombudsman in his field and also did training at London dentistry schools. When he retired and sold the Practice we stayed.

    It is a very small surgery in Alton (opposite the now closed Courts) called Gentle Dental Care.
    They are online and state nervous patients welcome. In fact today Karen told me that the reason they wear blue is because white was found to heighten nerves i(e white coat syndrome) in any case having just paid for your knee op it could be a step too far although you can read about Denplan on the website there is a section regarding this option.
    I can of course only speak as I/we have found - always a responsibility to recommend ๐Ÿคญ

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  71. Lady R - The same thing happened with our Dentist here in the village. He decided to drop out of NHS work and go completely private. So Mr A, who has extensive crowns bridgework etc opted for Denplan cover, which wasn’t too bad at first. But over the years the premiums have gone up and up until it was costing a small fortune every month, so he has recently opted out and will pay for any treatment needed as and when. It is awful how much private dental treatment costs in the UK which is probably why so many people go to Hungary and other countries where treatment is so much cheaper, even considering travel costs.
    In fact, you can buy a complete package including air fares, hotel accommodation and dental treatment at very reasonable prices compared with British ones.

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  72. Archerphile don’t even think about going abroad for dental treatment.
    What happens if you have an emergency?
    I have never had medical insurance preferring to save the money and pay privately if and when necessary.
    I only decided to go to a private dentist a few years ago and wish I had decided to do that years ago.
    If you can afford it I would recommend that is what you do.
    If you think the cost is too prohibitive and don’t mind having false teeth then stick to the NHS dentist.
    The choice is yours.

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  73. My gut feeling is to agree with you Lanjan plus I don’t like flying ๐Ÿ˜ฑ
    I also recently cancelled my dental ins (although very reasonable) I was getting hardly anything back as I had continued to pay at the entry level even when dentist became private and return not worth the effort plus not all work was available on it anyway.
    As you say LJ best to use premium monies towards treatment along with some reserve as and when needed.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Oh goodness, I would never consider going abroad, I was just reporting on adverts I have seen and the experience of one acquaintance who did get good treatment.
      But I would be too worried about aftercare, if something went wrong.

      A few years ago I had to have several courses of penicillin after an NHS root canal treatment went wrong and got infected. In the end the tooth had to be taken out anyway, but that treatment has left me with a severe allergy to penicillin which is very inconvenient.
      Now I go the the same Dentist as Mr A and just pay his extortionate fees when I need a checkup.

      Delete
  74. I hope everyone is prepared for Storm Ciara tonight and tomorrow.
    Mr A has put several tubs in the greenhouse to stop them being blown over, and fixed ropes to some new Silver Birch trees we planted a couple of years ago, which still have very slender trunks but big top growth. We feel they could be vulnerable to strong winds.
    Pretty certain we will loose a couple of fencing panels - it happens most winters! ๐ŸŒฌ ๐Ÿ’จ ๐Ÿ’จ

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    Replies
    1. It's an absolutely beautiful morning here in Glasgow. But that's all due to change dramatically in about half an hour apparently... Should make the rugby in Edinburgh quite interesting later!

      Delete
  75. Fencing panels are vulnerable in strong winds. Here on the island many fences including ours are made of overlapping vertical planks attached to strong horizontal frames. Others have concrete posts with panels slid in to grooves in the posts. When we moved here we had panels all round which of course blew over or looked scruffy so in the course of time we had them all replaced and hopefully the fences will stand up even to hurricane winds! Gary, it’s beautiful here too so being so hopefully all points in between are enjoying sunshine too!

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  76. We're on the very bottom edge of the depression, some rain this afto & tomorrow with strong winds Sunday /Monday - but nowhere near as bad as N France & UK, bon courage ร  tous ! Let's hope the rugby isn't too disrupted GG.. ๐Ÿ˜‰๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿ‰

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  77. LanJan on other blog yesterday: I am a Yorkshire woman with a love of adverbs, although admittedly I would say wrong rather than wrongly in the context you quoted. Apparently wrong can be used as an adverb. However I frequently correct folk on the telly who neglect their adverbs and lately I have been mourning their imminent demise, as life has recently seemed so sparsely populated with them. Thinking of starting a campaign to raise awareness of the adverb as an endangered species but not sure there’ll be much support. ๐Ÿ™

    Take care in the wild weather dear bloggers ๐ŸŒฌ๐Ÿ’จ๐ŸŒง๐ŸŒˆ

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  78. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sorry I published twice somehow, so removed the repeat performance.

      Delete
  79. I will support you Seasider.
    I agree about wrong and wrongly .


    Brian Close’s autobiography was entitled “I don’t bruise easily”
    I was impressed.
    I would have expected it to have been entitled “I don’t bruise easy”.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. With your support we can change the world.

      Delete
    2. I'm with you. I have been known to point out to J Sainsbury management (and Boots the Chemist) incorrect grammar and punctuation on a couple of enormous advertising banners!

      Delete
  80. The adjoining house of my "argumentative" neighbours, is up For Sale. They are asking a silly price, but who knows?

    Take Care All tomorrow.
    The wind + rain, is already starting....
    I have "battened down the hatches" and I am going nowhere.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. That's great news Miriam - fingers crossed for nice new neighbours in the not too distant future!

      Ciara has just arrived here too. Brrrrrrrrrr!

      Delete
    2. My pusscat has a choice - go out - or pee + poo in the bath (hopefully the latter).
      I have just realised that I have no litter nor a tray, and I am not going out again. She will do her best...๐Ÿ˜ธ and I will forgive her.๐Ÿ˜˜

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    3. Oooo, too much information, Miriam!

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  81. Great win for Ireland earlier,
    Here we go.. ๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ๐Ÿด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ฅ๓ ฎ๓ ง๓ ฟ

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  82. PtbY.
    We shall be having your cocktail as a before lunch aperitif. The other half always makes cocktails on a Sunday.
    I have named it TPYT.
    Will let you know tomorrow.

    ReplyDelete
  83. Still peaceful on the island. No Ciara as yet and nearly got the washing dry today. Roll on no more tumble drying! I had some so called non slip matting for under rugs on hard floors which is like plastic netting . Useless as mats still slip but found a use for it in surrounding my broad bean plants in the garden. The plants are now about 5 inches tall and look forward to the beans about April / May time.

    My two boys are very tired after three days with dog minder whilst Katy was away and having two long walks each day. Buddy was comatose this morning and just about managed to open his eyes for breakfast! We took them with Gypsy for just one walk today at Quarr Abbey. They are now all snoring away! There’s something so restful about sleeping dogs! Dudley is making slow improvements in his behaviour. We found that he is six where we had been told he was four so six years’ worth of behaviour has to be sorted. We watch the dogs behaving badly programme which indicates the behaviourist spends a couple of hours with the dog and all is well. It’s not that easy and much editing must be entailed! Dudley I’d quite endearing but is a bear of little brain needing constant reminders of what is or isn’t acceptable. We will get there one day but he will never get over his barkiness completely I fear!

    Good luck with the cat, Miriam and hope she can last until tomorrow! Gyp had me up at 4 in the night for pee and poo but did then sleep until 9 ! I have seen pics of cats who use the loo! An indoor doggy one would be great over the winter especially on frosty nights! About time someone invented one! Wonder if you could train dog to flush it too?!! Realms of fantasy!๐Ÿ˜‰๐Ÿ™€๐Ÿ˜ธ๐Ÿถ๐Ÿถ๐Ÿถ

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    Replies
    1. Please can we leave out the references to animals p.. and p.. !

      Delete
  84. Go England ๐Ÿ‰๐Ÿ‰
    I remember being at Murrayfield watching Scotland v England. Andy Irvine kicked a penalty in the final minute of injury time, to win. A great experience.
    Sorry GG -
    May the best team win. ๐Ÿ˜

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  85. Replies
    1. Watching it's making me feel so cold that I have bumped up the central heating!

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    2. Fire crackling in the grate, parmentier in the oven, beer in hand!

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    3. Fire on..for the 1st time this year.
      All stay warm + toasty.

      Delete
  86. On a different topic, I loved the 10,000th Corrie episode.
    At last Ken Barlow is leaving, and about time.
    I just loved the closing images.

    Let's hope TA continues, in a much better way..

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  87. Sorry GG, cheers anyway! ๐Ÿป๐Ÿบ๐Ÿบ

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  88. GG Drown your sorrows in style, which I am sure you will do. ๐Ÿฅƒ๐Ÿฅƒ
    Me - ๐Ÿพ as to the ๐Ÿ†

    My next decision is, will it be The Greatest Dancer or The Masked Singer??

    Keep Safe All ๐Ÿค—๐Ÿค—

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  89. Oh well.

    Spag Bol and garlic bread for me...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sounds good. On to the red +a film. ๐Ÿท๐Ÿท

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    2. I managed to make a spag. bol. for our dinner tonight but it’s not easy with only one hand (the other one was engaged with propping me up with a crutch) - especially trying to strain the spaghetti! In the end I had to accept help from Mr A, but was disappointed not to have managed the whole meal entirely on my own
      Now gone to bed early, in considรฉrable pain, through being stubborn and trying to do too much too soon. Typical me! ๐Ÿ™„

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    3. Thinks: Mrs P must have had to manage cooking with only one hand recently.
      How did you do it, Mrs P, without help from somebody else?

      Delete
    4. You could do with a perching stool Archerphile ๐Ÿค—

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  90. Stasia 4.42.
    Omg. I feel very honoured.
    Can’t wait to hear what you think. Got to admit I tried the same whisky concoction but with the juice of half a left over lime. Delish!
    Saturday is the evening that I go to the pub....5-7ish. 2 prosecco and an old fashioned and I was ready for Mr PtbY’s Saturday nights meal. His night for cooking. Well, a Lidl pizza in the oven!!!! Was good though.

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  91. We had M & S Chinese which was on offer two mains and two sides for £10 and I have to say was really good. Lemon chicken, beef with black bean sauce, fried rice and spring rolls. Really easy and a nice change!

    ReplyDelete
  92. Archerphile(yesterday, 10.37am), I had implants done here- ouch, the cost, London would have been even worse - but Mr C had his done in Budapest, a great success, involving 2/3 trips , as there is quite a long healing period before the permanent attachment + a GREAT saving & the chance for me to explore fascinating Budapest ! We were put up in a flat, with an English speaking guide who could translate at the dentist's. Drawback, much of the work done at one sitting, instead of spread over several here, so Mr C had to be stoically patient.
    No problem if anything goes wrong, your dentist at home will check. In fact, he was impressed with what had been done.

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  93. I do agree about adverbs, though there are some expressions that just sound clumsy & odd if you use them : 'Take it easy !' as an instruction. 'She took it easily for a while', fine,. but not, 'Take it easily !', would you say, Seasider & Lanjan ?

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