The Museum of English Rural Life, where tomorrow evening I will be hopefully quaffing tiny glasses of warm white wine & badgering whoever "the Very Special Surprise Guest" is...
Do wish I could be there too! It’s a super little museum anyway, but made extra special by the Archers connections this weekend. I hope you thoroughly enjoy it Gary and report back next week!
Pecca Hen update on the other blog. Sorry about the mistake.
Autumnleaves, you come across as philosophical & very sane about the present, necessary, restrictions where you are. It's pretty hard in so many ways, businesses, schools & so on, worse than mere temporary inconvenience, but health & safety in a case like this do have to come first obviously. Seems to me the right measures are being taken in the affected countries.
Thank you Carolyn but when you reach a certain age you've already experienced everything that life has to fling at you..especially if you have children,...and I in no way underestimate the challenges that people with no children have. Life is a rollercoaster and you have to go with the flow. Make the the best of a bad situation . The alternative is always worse. So pleased your hen is on the mend🐣🐣
All true, in my experience, too ! However, there are always those of any age, be they parents, grandparents or neither, who rail against the inevitable rather than make the best of an unfortunate situation, & thereby make things worse for others. I bet that is how it is in that Tenerife hotel !
My freezer was successfuly defrosted this morning. It didn't take long. The only problem was, that 20mins after I had put the drawers + contents outside, there was a massive hail shower. My pack of frozen peas, had hail stones on it.
Gary, I don’t believe you mean tiny glasses of white wine. Unless your version of tiny is different to mine.🥂🍹 Have a great time hobnobbing with great and the good in intellectual Archer land.
I'm sure we both pour VERY generous glass fulls when left to our own devices stasia, but as it's a reception tomorrow night I think it's safe to say any "free" wine being handed out will be bit on the stingy side! But I'm more than willing and ready to be proved completely wrong...!
Autumnleaves. Stoical is the best attitude in trying circumstances. Also good personal hygiene. My sister and her husband are going to Sicily on Saturday for his birthday and it was recommended they take hand sanitizer. Over here people are panicking already and they couldn’t find any. All the shops had sold out, so they are having to resort to wet wipes. As carolyn’s chicken might say in chick chatter, keep your Pecca up. That includes Giannia.
Sicily is just wonderful. I visisted it, on an extensive 14 day tour, some years ago. There is so much history + sites to see and enjoy. In my final hotel, I had a balcony with a wonderful view of Mount Etna. PS My trip up Mt E. was memorable, and I recommend it.
Hear hear Autumnleaves. That is what they are telling us to do. Wash our hands with soap and water.
The people who annoy me are the panic buyers who have no intention of leaving the Country but feel they have to hoard food . Many years ago ,believe it or not there ,was a shortage of salt. People stock piled it but didn’t stop there. They stock piled pepper. -I kid you not.
It reminds me of the Swine Flu epidemic. At that time, I was working front-line, in a Welsh Village. I "lost" 3 clients:- the 35yr old husband of a friend, a 17yr old male, and a 50yr old regular client (who had no major health issues). The dilemma is, when + where, will this virus strike next. It worries me.
I am not panic buying, but I will be stocking up my freezer + store cupboards. This is purely to have a good supply of available food + supplies. This is to just limit the time needed, to do my normal shopping, if things get worse. Hopefully this won't happen.
Gary....wishing you good luck for Sunday. I wish I could’ve been there. KPNUTS....cheer loudly for him. I’m going to try and sort out the live streaming so I’ll be there in thought with you if not in person. 😚
Ps....Gary....don’t get rat arsed Saturday night!!!!🤣
I am so proud of my family. I have just learnt that another niece + hubby, along with two of my grand-nephews, who are now 9months + 3yrs, are on the move (having just sold their home) Again, their new home is costing over £500,000. They are the 3rd one's to buy new homes, at that price in 18 months. I admire them all, for their achievements. I wonder, where I went wrong - as I still only have a little semi-
Home is where the heart is Miriam no matter how much it costs. I read an article just last week about Susan Boyle who despite her new found wealth couldn't bear to leave her modest council house where she grew up. There were too many happy memories. Besides the bigger the house, the more you have to clean!
Unfortunately due to poor organisation on my part I was too late to get tickets for either of the evening social events. So I’m driving up on the Saturday morning ( it’s not that long a drive) I’ve got a hotel booked for that night so I can get into the conference in time for Gary’s presentation at about the time I am normally absorbing my first cup coffee.
I guess I will see you on Saturday morning then KP! Shall we be naughty and sit at the back of the class causing mischief like the cool kids that we are?
Lanjan 5.52 I wash my hands regularly due to cooking often (I am messy!) and also because I have to 'grease' my skin so often; steroid cream, Zerobase at least twice a day and Factor fifty sun cream whether there is sunshine (fat chance!) or not! On top of that are the side effects of the steroid tablets which necessitate very frequent visits to the loo! However I probably do not wash for twenty seconds every time. I shall try to remember to sing Happy Birthday every time I go to the bathroom! But I will not be panicked or driven by media fear to wasting money on 'sanitiser'
Antibacterial handwash will do NOTHING that soap and water does. The clue is in the name! It is supposed to anti-BACTERIAL, whereas the illness we are hearing about is a VIRUS! If you are relatively healthy (no heart problems, chest and lung problems) then the risks are less than flu. I am in two groups of possible victims as I am over 70 and at present my immune system is being suppressed. But I will go out today for about an hour to do the weekly shopping, with my list of necessaries for the planned menu (on the fridge door) for the next week's meals. I prepare a list so that my shopping trips are done quickly, not just because of fear of contagion but because I can't walk upright for more than an hour!
That all sounds eminently sensible Spicy. Yes, these antibacterial wipes and gels are useless against a virus. They said on the radio this morning that a ‘hand-sanitiser’ needs to contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective. Also face masks give a false sense of security because as soon as the front gets wet (from your breathing) they are saturated with virus droplets which you then transfer to your hands if you handle the mask - and subsequently transfer to anything you touch!
Good luck with your shopping trip today. I am going to Sainsburys, hopefully to do my first full shop since the knee op. I shall sit in the drivers seat of my car to see if I think I can drive safely, if not, because it was my left, clutch operating, knee, Mr A will drive. In the supermarket I shall just hang onto the trolly, like a walking frame, whilst he does the self-scanning and packing. I don’t care about viruses, it will just be wonderful to see other people and choose my own meat, fruit and veg again!! 🥩 🥬 🍏
Any chance of a brief itinerary Gary so that we can have a bit of vicarious pleasure? Mine will start with your train journey . All the very best to you.. We are all behind you. Most of all, enjoy yourself.
Well said Spicycushion. It doesn’t take me 20seconds to sing happy birthday. I was listening to the Today programme this morning. There is no point in buying face masks either. They will not do any good.
Indeed Autumnleaves the Marilyn Monroe “Happy Birthday Mr President” would certainly cover the advised hand washing time and one must not forget to add the “poo poo e do” right at the end 😂
Put eye drops in on Dudley yesterday no problem but today he was very wary! In the end took online advice and sat him on utility worktop with back to me and think I got them in. Very difficult with a dog who is liable to snap at you out of fear. Onwards and upwards hopefully!
As soon as there is a dry and calm day, next week, I will be off to The Zoo. A new baby (female) elephant, was born on Wednesday. I am looking forward to seeing it. As I now have a yearly pass, I can pop in and out, as I wish. This is an example of why it is so useful. I will wander else-where as well. 🐘 🐒 🦁
If you will excuse the expression - completely knackering! Couldn’t manage to drive, can press clutch down but too painful to pull knee back up again. Managed to push trolly for the full length and aisles of the shop but in pain by the end and totally exhausted. Back to online shopping next week!
Ouch, that sounds so painful, AP ! Do admire your efforts; will this dogged pushing against the pain eventually pay off so that the knee & all muscles attached, become more flexible, much less painful ?
May I just say something - antibacterial gel is alcohol based, so it does work/help against viruses, but it is not 100% proven. Hand washing is equally effective, if it is done as per the leaflets, which is how nurses/doctors wash their hands. It takes 25secs. I know how to do this hand washing technique, as I was a front-line retail Pharmacist.
I have never spent 25 seconds washing my hands I have possibly been washing my hands incorrectly for almost 80 years I don’t know how I have survived so long..
No ,afraid not. He won’t be bothered about that though. They are concentrating on the paid members of staff and although there are apparently over 1000 volunteers they usually only choose to show one . In fairness the two people who feature most,Piglet and Kieran are very personable.
“The Flying Scotsman” is currently with our local Steam Railway. It reopened “The Watercress Line” recently (after major bridge and roadworks taking over a year were undertaken) The area will be very busy this and next weekend that’s for sure 😉
My cousin when he was younger was an occasional driver on the Watercress line, I think a Thomas the tank engine was involved. He also has shares in an engine being renovated down here in Cornwall. He was on board as a fireman shovelling the coal for years, and managed to chop off the top of a finger slamming the heavy fire door shut. Then he decided to go for his driver's certificate and was quite nervous about taking the test. Apparently you only got one chance to pass, and had to be very careful not to overshoot the platform.
Trains? Don't talk to me about trains! People of England, I have a message for you - you are trying to fit too many people on to too few trains! Yesterday was an unholy nightmare getting to Reading. Missed connections, dramatically overcrowded stations and carriages AND an unexpected visit to Birmingham. BIRMINGHAM! Who in their right mind goes to Birmingham!?
But I got to here in the end, and I got pissed at he Museum of English Rural Life and I got a very good night's sleep in my hotel. Met quite a few of the other delegates last night, they're quite obviously mostly insane. But in a pleasant way. Off to breakfast now and then the conference proper.
Enjoy the conference and sock it to them tomorrow! Yes, we are all insane! Have seen people’s eyes glaze over when I talk about being an avid listener of TA! 🥳
Gary, sacrilege, Birmingham is the the HOME of the Archers. Agree about the trains, awful. The wine couldn’t have been too warm, enjoy the day. If Mr. K Davies is present could you please give him a message from me,
Enough of the Lillian/Lynda rubbish about the B@Ambridge.
My grandpa was a fireman on the railway in the 50's on the old E coast line down to Peterborough. He used to wave to us, it went past the bottom of our road.
I laughed at the insane comment. I once took part in a quiz at our local library. A woman came by herself and joined our team. After a while she said to me”I bet you listen to The Archers” . The worse thing though is if anybody assumes you are a teacher . On the other hand if if I say I was a teacher and the person looks surprised, then that is is great.
How are you liking the little Museum Gary? I shall be tuning into some of the presentations today and am with you in thought, if not real, life ...... so frustrating as I am only 20 miles away!
Oh lord, it has just started chucking down huge hailstones here! The sky is black and the wind is strong and the hailstones are bouncing off the windows and ground. Welcome to Hampshire, Storm Jorge! By the way, why Jorge? I would have expected a female name beginning with E, after Ciara and Dennis. 💨💨💨🌨
Nothing as awful as your weather here (as yet) Archerphile. Sun then dark and a sharp shower, currently sun and even some blue sky - doubt it will last though. Very high winds are due I know. The new decade has not started very well has it one way and another!
Still our local man Bob who is now the oldest man in the world has seen it all and worse no doubt and he is still as bright as a button and with a good head of hair! The secret to longevity he says “is to avoid dying” 🤣🤣🤣 (and walking just along the road to visit the Waitrose girls me thinks......) not forgetting his toy making!
Lady R......it reminds me of the American comedian George Burns when asked on his 90th birthday. How does it feel to be 90 Mr Burns? "Well "he replied "it sure as hell beats the alternative "
I have just been listening to the conference and am not impressed. The presenter is simply delivering a regurgitation of what any listener already knows. How do Archer characters deal with crisis, Emma and housing and who is most supportive blah, blah. The presentation was lack lustre and lacked any dynamic content. If the Academic read this blog she would have gained better access to intellectual discourse on the programme than she actually delivered.
Thought bronwen on retirement was enjoyable but the next woman on cate homes was as boring as hell. This Joanna on financially gullible is sending me to sleep!
Good that you have been able to meet up and therefore stop your bum sleeping from escalating up your bodies to your 🧠 No doubt you will brighten proceedings up tomorrow GG 👍
I have to say that the Archers cardigan was a magnificent effort. The hours of designing , never mind the actual knitting it required, must have been huge and I congratulate the lady who put in so much time and effort. I might have tried such a garment myself when I still had a programmable knitting machine, but would never embark on such a task by hand! I
Lanjan, I found it by going to Google, putting ‘Academic Archers on Youtube’ in search box. You then scroll down past 2018, 2019, to live streaming 2020 and click on that. At the moment a woman is speaking but I missed the start of her topic!
I was sorry to see some criticism of the organisation of last nights party at the conference on Facebook, because it finished a t 8pm. Apparently, the venue usually closes at 5pm so the University kept it open late for the delegates. Such a shame that folk (who probably did nothing to assist in the arrangements) felt the necessity to complain!
I'm watching but finding it difficult to hear. Too much echo for me, but it may be my hearing. So far no showing of the audience. Does that happen from time to time ?
Wow so many comments about the Archers Academics, which seem to be enjoying. It is not right for me, but that is personal to me only. I love TA on a lesser level, with the S/Ls, the discussions and thoughts, it provokes to all. I am so glad, that so many are involved in the conference and interacting with it.
This latest storm has, thankfully, passed me by. I have had a couple of rain + hail events - however, it has been mostly sunny and cold, along with very strong winds, though.
To those in flooded or "virus" hit areas, be they home or abroad - Take Care and I Wish You All Well.. 🤗🤗
Gary, if it's possible to ask, would the AA organisers consider publishing the papers on line or in their newsletter. I am particularly interested in the current gentleman discussing amateur dramatics, but only catching about two thirds of his words.
Wow. Congratulations Gary, winning an award and you haven’t presented your paper, yet. You really must have impressed them.👏🎉 Enjoy the dinner and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.
Well done for getting an award GG. Perhaps next week you can tell us why and what for. Didn't understand when the presenter said they had waited some years ?
You and KP have a good evening and I hope I can wake up early enough to see your presentation in the morning.
Oh, Gary, be careful. I’m sure you meant this with a smile but in writing with no expression it sounds like a rebuke. I’m sure not so.😊 Congrats on the award. You are just how I imagined! So often with TA seeing the actors they don’t look at all how I pictured them!
Just a little bit more of the Lady story. On the 19 th February Lady reached her first ' gotcha ' day. It passed without any fuss, just a normal day. But here we are at one year and she is doing very well on the ' being alone' front. We have now reached ten minutes. This means that I can be out of and away from the house with her inside alone, without any problems, for precisely ten minutes at a time. Every time I leave her I say in a cheerful voice ' won't be long ' and I step out of the door with my coat and boots on. The coat and boots are still a trigger, she thinks I am taking her out when she sees me don them. Lady goes to the window and watches me leave. I make sure I walk past the window so that she can see I have gone and then walk out of sight. I don't stay out for ten minutes each time but vary from three or five or more minutes but so far she has done at least one ten minute period each day for over a week. When I return she is at the window and returns to the door when she sees that I am back. When coming into the house again it is important to not allow a fuss to be made. She is getting better at this too. Previously she would paw at the back of my legs for attention, but is doing that less and less. My greatest fear, that she would trash, bite, chew at items, or lose control of her bowel or bladder has not happened, and as I can see her some of the time from a window she is unaware of, she is not hyperventilating at all. She seems to have gone beyond the ''wondering ' stage and is now understanding that she has been left alone, but she is still looking for me to return. This is a very slow process but it's working.
Enjoy your supper Miriam, what will you watch on television tonight ?
Just caught up on the last conference session and kept a special lookout for Gary and KP, having seen the comments above. Wey hey Gary and KP! I picked you both out and it’s so exciting to know what you look like - never having met before. It will be lovely to picture the faces that go with the comments on these blogs in future. Enjoy tomorrow Gary, and safe home KP. 🙋🏼♀️
Hey, just located Gary picking up his award from 2 very pleasant ladies, both broad in the beam, one in red, the other in black, 'So surreal!' he says, &, if I hadn't been holding the phone, I would have clapped & cheered! Fantastic, Gary & well done 😀
(It's quite tricky on the phone to HEAR & SEE at the same time, so only caught snatches here & there so far.)
As a former ‘broad in the beam’ lady, I too noticed the number of such well endowed ladies that seemed to be running the conference. They reminded me very much of local WI members. Large ladies with superb organisational skills and great fashion sense, unafraid (as I always was) of putting themselves on show. Well done them.
I wish I had continued to watch the Conference. I chose to watch my football team who are the leaders of the Premiership at the moment play a team who are fighting relegation and they were rubbish. The good thing about Liverpool Supporters though is that when our team plays appallingly badly ,they will clap the victors. Today Watford outshone Liverpool Well done them. (Doesn’t make me feel overjoyed though)
Great photo of Gary on Twitter with very excited women “oh Gary, we have been waiting for you!” Do we know yet what the award is in aid of?
All the best for tomorrow Gary and it’s great you and KP are having a good time. I missed all the fun when out today but I will be there virtually in the morning.
For those who might have missed today's live screening, it is possible to still see the proceedings on YouTube. I have watched several pieces late into this evening.
I'm glad you said that, Mrs P. I haven't watched any of the conference today and will be out tomorrow when Gary is on. I hope to catch up with it all later.
Will we have to hire a Hall for our next Meet Up? 😊 Congrats on the award. Just waiting to find out if it's for your 'academic paper' or something else?
Bravo Gary! Managed to connect about half way through your ‘tour de force’ (said in a Lynda Snell accent!) I knew nothing about The Simpsons but loved your presentation and giggled several times - as did the audience in the hall. So lovely to hear your voice and great Scottish accent - that is how I shall read your posts from now on. So, very very well done and also congrats on all the publicity for our blogs. I suspect we’ll get lots of new members very soon 👏👏👏👏👏
Surreal wit indeed ! Very clever, such fun, Gary, & the live audience clearly loved it, a 'tonic' as the lady in red said afterwards when the thunderous applause died down...Many, many congratulations, Gary.
Superbly done Gary, I take it your not a fan of Hannah😁. I watched yesterday and Imo your presentation and the following one from the medic were the best. Both very clever. Springfield like Ambridge are not places I would like to live. But I think the medic and her focus groups definitely need to see her psychiatrist colleague.
I dipped into it yesterday and can honestly say your talk, Gary, was a breath of fresh air after some of those speakers! I thought the ladies introducing the day got a bit silly over nothing and the lady quaffing her coffee could have waited to drink it until out of the limelight! Maybe my long ago naval training makes me a bit too picky over these things!
Just managed to catch up with the first half of your talk Gary. which I missed live. And I absolutely loved the way the audiences boo-ed at you mention of Hannah! She is obviously unpopular with many Archers fans and not just some of we bloggers. If only she could really return to the US and bother some pigs there.
Sitting in a large hall, listening to the Archers omnibus with lots of people on their phones tweeting is slightly surreal. I have posted my first, and probably last, tweet. I don’t think I’ll be getting into Twitter.
I think because you were a newcomer ,Gary ,you drew the short straw because folk were not prepared to come early on a Sunday morning and then have a wait of 75minutes before the next Presentation.. However those who didn’t come. missed a treat. Why were there knitters in the room? It is as bad as those women who knit whilst watching Cricket.
Just caught up with your presentation Gary. Wow you were superb! Full of zest and fun and had the audience in the palm of your hand from the outset 👏🏻 ⭐️ A hard act to follow but I did like the GP’s comment that her presentation certainly would not last longer than 10mins
What a way this blog had come in slightly under 2 years. What the BBC ended Ruthy and your good self have improved beyond measure. Meet ups and now an Archers presentation. Grateful thanks to you both ⭐️ ⭐️
Fab Gary. Definitely saved the best till last. You were very amusing. Nice to have given Ruthy a mention, I often wonder how she’s doing. You’ll be prime speaker next year!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🏆
Would you go again Gary? I love the Archers and I love knitting but I think I'd rather enjoy them in the comfort of my own home. Apart from you and maybe a couple of others it was a bit of a yawnfest . Maybe they should drop the academics and lighten up a bit.
Gary, it was obvious you enjoyed yourself, no sign of nerves and NO UMS! Well done. I did listen for a bit yesterday, but the speaker was so poor and every other word was umm, that I gave up and tuned in to you earlier today.
Gary you were fantastic and the audience obviously loved you. Such applause at the announcement of your name suggests to me that you have become a hit with all those woman during your time off air. KP will be able to affirm this I'm sure.
I've watched a great deal besides yourself, and have been very interested in all the presentations but have gained little enjoyment due to the very bad echo. I have only been able to catch every third word and so it is very taxing to watch and listen and then only get the gist of a presentation.
I agree with Ev, I wasn't too taken with the two presenters the main one seemed to me to be a rather silly person. I think the coffee situation seems to be every where now. It's as though not one person in the universe can get through fifteen minutes without a paper cup in their hands. Perhaps it has become a ' prop'
As for the knitting...... I don't have a problem. Many years ago a neighbour who knitted at all times including on car journeys ( she didn't drive) produced the most wonderful garments, and in Putney the Knitting Concerts are still going strong, where the audience is invited to bring knitting or embroidery or any other silent activity to the concert.
Seasider, was that person who you thought she was, the funeral director ? Will you be able to find out.
Sorry ,don’t agree with you about the knitting Mrs P but perhaps there was something on the booking form which said”Please bring your knitting “ or “Knitting permitted” otherwise why would you?
Mrs P, I was referring to Rev Dr Jonathan Hustler who spoke this morning about Shula wanting to be a vicar, and the selection process to assess her suitability.
I have googled him and it is the same person. He’s a Methodist and one of his profiles mentions his avid interest in the Archers, and his writing about it. It also mentions the areas where he has worked, including where my mother lives.
Very well done Gary!! Enjoyed listening to and seeing you. I hope you're enjoying your time there. I missed the famous cardigan - was it featured somewhere? It does seem now that so many people have to carry a cup with them. I hope there's tea available too. I don't even like the smell of coffee.
I have no room to talk with regard to knitting. I used to knit when I was at school during some lessons. Why was it never noticed? I remember once dropping a knitting needle in maths and even then it wasn’t commented upon.
I have a friend who used to knit on long haul plane journeys and could complete a cardigan over the Atlantic. She was bereft when they banned knitting needles on flights in case they were used as a lethal weapon!
As an addicted knitter I have to disagree with Lanjan about knitting when watching cricket. Before I started scoring for our club I did used to knit during matches (it was when the children were young and needed lots of sweaters etc) If you are doing fairly plain knitting, which becomes an automatic finger action, there is no problem with watching the match - or TV programme or anything else, for that matter. But I would never attempt to do a complicated pattern like Aran or intarsia because you would be unable to concentrate on what’s happening in front of you.
But I must say, I much preferred scoring because you get really involved in the match and all the players treat you with respect, so you don’t miss any of their runs, catches or wickets! And, you are allowed to indulge in the cricket tea with the players as well 😋
Perhaps I should qualify by adding that I do think it’s a bit rude and disrespectful to knit in a meeting. I used to have to take minutes at the local Council planning meetings and one councillor insisted on knitting throughout the meeting, another got her tapestry frame and all her wools out. Not very professional, I thought!
Exactly the point I was trying to make earlier ,Ev. Archerphile I am sure you would never have knitted if watching a County Match or a Test Match though . What if you were caught on camera ? You would never live it down. On the other hand when going to some of the Out Grounds when sitting in a deck chair I have been known to “drop off” so maybe that is as bad.
All I can contribute today, is:- a) I got all my bedding + towels, washed, and then dried outside, on the line, today. It was sunny, breezy but cold. b) I also did a bit more of my latest knitting project. This is a DK crew-neck jumper (for me), with a lacey, central pattern, on the back + front and also, up the sleeves. It is being knitted, in a very vivid red yarn.
To add, my Roast Chicken Dinner, last night was delicious. Sadly, it was eaten solo, as my dinner guests had to cancel. They live, over "the border" and snow was falling heavily, so decided not to venture out. This, I understood entirely, I now have some containers (in my recently defrosted freezer), of R.Chicken, with gravy + home-made stuffing - apricot, herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs, bacon and a small portion of sausagemeat.
Gary - managed to give you a bit of a puff on the FB Academic Archers page and publicise our blog again. One of the other comments said your piece was one of the two utterly brilliant talks this morning, so give yourself a huge pat on the back and a great big whisky when you get home 🥃
Delicious, precious sleep! Chance would be a fine thing Janice - still on the bleedin' train. Not too long to go though, hop into a cab & THEN I can fall into sleep's sweet embrace....
Gary, I hope your return journey is going smoothly. I was glad to have a companion, although you would have been fine, lots of people obviously warmed to you. I realised that my fixation with the Archers is really quite mild compared to some, and that the fans are a very friendly bunch.
I'm just sorry I was far too preoccupied this morning to properly chat before we "had" to sit in silence! It was really great to have one face there that I knew KP - it was a pleasure!!
And you're right about the fervour of some of the crazy souls in that hall. A few of them seemed positively certifiable....(But in a nice way!)
I don’t think I would be comfortable with the preoccupation some folk have! I just enjoy TA and welcome my acquaintance through the years with the various characters still remembering Susan telling Neil she was pregnant and Jack Woolley proposing to Peggy (had me in tears while doing the gardening!) and Mark getting killed in the car crash among other things. Highs and lows we have lived with together!!
Golly Ev, me too, I often think of that evening when Susan told Neil, and when I do so, I always wonder why. It must have been a very powerful performance I think. As for Jack, didn't he propose to Peggy several times.
I never heard the accident with Mark and Caroline. I was on a plane coming back from Greece. If anyone knows of a way to hear it, I would be pleased to know.
Hope your home soon Gary and that sleep comes quickly.
I’m thinking of the time she accepted! When Mark died my husband came home from work finding me in tears. “What’s up?” “Mark has died” “Who’s Mark?” “Shula’s husband in the Archers” Burst of laughter from husband! That was all the sympathy I got!!😟
Thanks Gary and KPNUTS for keeping us informed. The people in the lecture hall looked like a bunch of raggle taggle eccentrics. Perhaps I would have included myself had I decided to attend. As it is I’ve saved myself a few hundred pounds. Had it been possible I would have gone on the Sunday, just to hear Gary. Well done.
I remember listening to the omnibus as I drove my sons to rugby practise and staying in the car to listen to the end after they had piled out to get cganged. Some minutes later I joined the other mums on the touchline and greeted them with the words "I didn't know he was going to die!" The nearest ones turned to me in horror and asked who? " Mark, Shula's husband!" Oh yes we heard that during the week(Probably Friday?) Nobody asked who were Mark and Shula! If I remember correctly the car accident was not trailed by the BBC but when Polly Perks died in the car crash with Pat it was advertised that it was going to happen. I wonder which is the most successful strategy to attract audiences?
The Museum of English Rural Life, where tomorrow evening I will be hopefully quaffing tiny glasses of warm white wine & badgering whoever "the Very Special Surprise Guest" is...
ReplyDeleteEnjoy yourself Gary..so exciting🙆🙆🙆
ReplyDeleteExciting, Gary &, just maybe, the white wine will be chilled....
ReplyDeleteThanks lots for giving us a fresh start on the 2 blogs to tide us over.
Do wish I could be there too! It’s a super little museum anyway, but made extra special by the Archers connections this weekend.
ReplyDeleteI hope you thoroughly enjoy it Gary and report back next week!
Pecca Hen update on the other blog. Sorry about the mistake.
ReplyDeleteAutumnleaves, you come across as philosophical & very sane about the present, necessary, restrictions where you are. It's pretty hard in so many ways, businesses, schools & so on, worse than mere temporary inconvenience, but health & safety in a case like this do have to come first obviously. Seems to me the right measures are being taken in the affected countries.
Thank you Carolyn but when you reach a certain age you've already experienced everything that life has to fling at you..especially if you have children,...and I in no way underestimate the challenges that people with no children have. Life is a rollercoaster and you have to go with the flow.
DeleteMake the the best of a bad situation . The alternative is always worse.
So pleased your hen is on the mend🐣🐣
All true, in my experience, too ! However, there are always those of any age, be they parents, grandparents or neither, who rail against the inevitable rather than make the best of an unfortunate situation, & thereby make things worse for others. I bet that is how it is in that Tenerife hotel !
DeleteAre YOU not the very special surprise guest ,Gary or are you not allowed to spoil the surprise?
ReplyDeleteMy freezer was successfuly defrosted this morning. It didn't take long. The only problem was, that 20mins after I had put the drawers + contents outside, there was a massive hail shower. My pack of frozen peas, had hail stones on it.
ReplyDeleteGary, I don’t believe you mean tiny glasses of white wine. Unless your version of tiny is different to mine.🥂🍹
ReplyDeleteHave a great time hobnobbing with great and the good in intellectual Archer land.
I'm sure we both pour VERY generous glass fulls when left to our own devices stasia, but as it's a reception tomorrow night I think it's safe to say any "free" wine being handed out will be bit on the stingy side! But I'm more than willing and ready to be proved completely wrong...!
DeleteAutumnleaves. Stoical is the best attitude in trying circumstances. Also good personal hygiene.
ReplyDeleteMy sister and her husband are going to Sicily on Saturday for his birthday and it was recommended they take hand sanitizer. Over here people are panicking already and they couldn’t find any. All the shops had sold out, so they are having to resort to wet wipes.
As carolyn’s chicken might say in chick chatter, keep your Pecca up. That includes Giannia.
Good old soap and water will do the trick. I hope your sister and hubby have a wonderful time in beautiful Sicily.
DeleteSicily is just wonderful. I visisted it, on an extensive 14 day tour, some years ago. There is so much history + sites to see and enjoy. In my final hotel, I had a balcony with a wonderful view of Mount Etna.
DeletePS My trip up Mt E. was memorable, and I recommend it.
Hear hear Autumnleaves.
ReplyDeleteThat is what they are telling us to do.
Wash our hands with soap and water.
The people who annoy me are the panic buyers who have no intention of leaving the Country but feel they have to hoard food .
Many years ago ,believe it or not there ,was a shortage of salt.
People stock piled it but didn’t stop there.
They stock piled pepper. -I kid you not.
It reminds me of the Swine Flu epidemic. At that time, I was working front-line, in a Welsh Village.
DeleteI "lost" 3 clients:- the 35yr old husband of a friend, a 17yr old male, and a 50yr old regular client (who had no major health issues).
The dilemma is, when + where, will this virus strike next.
It worries me.
I am not panic buying, but I will be stocking up my freezer + store cupboards.
ReplyDeleteThis is purely to have a good supply of available food + supplies. This is to just limit the time needed, to do my normal shopping, if things get worse. Hopefully this won't happen.
I am perhaps being a bit over cautious.
DeleteAs a single person, I have no-one to help me out.
Gary....wishing you good luck for Sunday. I wish I could’ve been there.
DeleteKPNUTS....cheer loudly for him.
I’m going to try and sort out the live streaming so I’ll be there in thought with you if not in person. 😚
Ps....Gary....don’t get rat arsed Saturday night!!!!🤣
Have the best time at the 🏹conference Gary 📻 🍷🤗
ReplyDeleteI am so proud of my family.
ReplyDeleteI have just learnt that another niece + hubby, along with two of my grand-nephews, who are now 9months + 3yrs, are on the move (having just sold their home)
Again, their new home is costing over £500,000.
They are the 3rd one's to buy new homes, at that price in 18 months.
I admire them all, for their achievements.
I wonder, where I went wrong - as I still only have a little semi-
Home is where the heart is Miriam no matter how much it costs. I read an article just last week about Susan Boyle who despite her new found wealth couldn't bear to leave her modest council house where she grew up. There were too many happy memories.
DeleteBesides the bigger the house, the more you have to clean!
Wishing you every opportunity possible over the weekend Gary.
ReplyDeleteI have no doubts whatsoever that you will enjoy yourself.
Have a great time, Gary & wow them all with your erudition & wit ! We will be watching you.....
ReplyDeleteGood luck for Sunday Gary.
ReplyDeleteThank you everyone for your words of encouragement. Looking forward to the train journey - I loves a good train journey!
ReplyDeleteKP - are you going to be at the MERL event on Fri night too?
Well, if the worst comes to the worst, no shortage of confit duck in the Parsley larder 🦆🦆.. 😉
ReplyDeleteUnfortunately due to poor organisation on my part I was too late to get tickets for either of the evening social events. So I’m driving up on the Saturday morning ( it’s not that long a drive) I’ve got a hotel booked for that night so I can get into the conference in time for Gary’s presentation at about the time I am normally absorbing my first cup coffee.
ReplyDeleteI guess I will see you on Saturday morning then KP! Shall we be naughty and sit at the back of the class causing mischief like the cool kids that we are?
DeleteSitting at the back sounds good, but your role as presenter may mean you have VIP seating 🙂
DeleteKnock 'em dead Gary! 👍
ReplyDelete✅✅✅
DeleteBreak a leg GG!
ReplyDeleteLanjan 5.52
ReplyDeleteI wash my hands regularly due to cooking often (I am messy!) and also because I have to 'grease' my skin so often; steroid cream, Zerobase at least twice a day and Factor fifty sun cream whether there is sunshine (fat chance!) or not! On top of that are the side effects of the steroid tablets which necessitate very frequent visits to the loo! However I probably do not wash for twenty seconds every time. I shall try to remember to sing Happy Birthday every time I go to the bathroom!
But I will not be panicked or driven by media fear to wasting money on 'sanitiser'
Antibacterial handwash will do NOTHING that soap and water does.
The clue is in the name! It is supposed to anti-BACTERIAL, whereas the illness we are hearing about is a VIRUS!
If you are relatively healthy (no heart problems, chest and lung problems) then the risks are less than flu.
I am in two groups of possible victims as I am over 70 and at present my immune system is being suppressed. But I will go out today for about an hour to do the weekly shopping, with my list of necessaries for the planned menu (on the fridge door) for the next week's meals. I prepare a list so that my shopping trips are done quickly, not just because of fear of contagion but because I can't walk upright for more than an hour!
So my advice is Don't Panic!
That all sounds eminently sensible Spicy. Yes, these antibacterial wipes and gels are useless against a virus. They said on the radio this morning that a ‘hand-sanitiser’ needs to contain at least 60% alcohol to be effective.
DeleteAlso face masks give a false sense of security because as soon as the front gets wet (from your breathing) they are saturated with virus droplets which you then transfer to your hands if you handle the mask - and subsequently transfer to anything you touch!
Good luck with your shopping trip today. I am going to Sainsburys, hopefully to do my first full shop since the knee op. I shall sit in the drivers seat of my car to see if I think I can drive safely, if not, because it was my left, clutch operating, knee, Mr A will drive.
In the supermarket I shall just hang onto the trolly, like a walking frame, whilst he does the self-scanning and packing. I don’t care about viruses, it will just be wonderful to see other people and choose my own meat, fruit and veg again!! 🥩 🥬 🍏
Absolutely! And to breath fresh air! Heaven!
DeleteAny chance of a brief itinerary Gary so that we can have a bit of vicarious pleasure?
ReplyDeleteMine will start with your train journey .
All the very best to you..
We are all behind you.
Most of all, enjoy yourself.
Well said Spicycushion.
ReplyDeleteIt doesn’t take me 20seconds to sing happy birthday.
I was listening to the Today programme this morning.
There is no point in buying face masks either.
They will not do any good.
" It doesn't take me 20 seconds to sing happy birthday "
DeleteIt does if you sing it like Marilyn Monroe
Can last up to a minute😄😄😄😄
Orrabest Garry💪💪
Sorry Gary ...spelt your name wrong
DeleteIndeed Autumnleaves the Marilyn Monroe “Happy Birthday Mr President” would certainly cover the advised hand washing time and one must not forget to add the “poo poo e do” right at the end 😂
DeleteI think you’re supposed to sing it twice!
ReplyDeletePut eye drops in on Dudley yesterday no problem but today he was very wary! In the end took online advice and sat him on utility worktop with back to me and think I got them in. Very difficult with a dog who is liable to snap at you out of fear. Onwards and upwards hopefully!
Good Luck, GG. 😁
ReplyDeleteHave a great time, and do yourself (and us here), proud.
I look forward to reading, both yours + KPnuts, reports.
As soon as there is a dry and calm day, next week, I will be off to The Zoo.
ReplyDeleteA new baby (female) elephant, was born on Wednesday. I am looking forward to seeing it. As I now have a yearly pass, I can pop in and out, as I wish.
This is an example of why it is so useful. I will wander else-where as well. 🐘 🐒 🦁
How did your Sainsbury’s trip go Archerphile? 🤞🏼
ReplyDeleteIf you will excuse the expression - completely knackering! Couldn’t manage to drive, can press clutch down but too painful to pull knee back up again. Managed to push trolly for the full length and aisles of the shop but in pain by the end and totally exhausted. Back to online shopping next week!
DeleteExpression ok with me Archerphile your expression totally ok with me understand your use of it. Anyway a ⭐️ from me for
Deletegiving it a go.
iPhone playing silly beggars writing disappeared so rewrote and then both came out🙄 but you get my drift 🤣
DeleteOuch, that sounds so painful, AP ! Do admire your efforts; will this dogged pushing against the pain eventually pay off so that the knee & all muscles attached, become more flexible, much less painful ?
DeleteMay I just say something - antibacterial gel is alcohol based, so it does work/help against viruses, but it is not 100% proven.
ReplyDeleteHand washing is equally effective, if it is done as per the leaflets, which is how nurses/doctors wash their hands. It takes 25secs.
I know how to do this hand washing technique, as I was a front-line retail Pharmacist.
..and this was shown, as part of the primary induction, with a new staff member.
Delete
ReplyDeleteI have never spent 25 seconds washing my hands
I have possibly been washing my hands incorrectly for almost 80 years
I don’t know how I have survived so long..
Yes, must admit, just wash my hands in a hand washing sort of way, without thought, with soap, frequently...
DeleteLanjan, I see there's a programme on Channel 5 tonight about the Yorkshire steam railway. Is that the one your son (?) is involved with?
ReplyDeleteIndeed it is,Zoetrope
ReplyDeleteIt is I think the second in a new series .
Will he make an appearance, Lanjan ?
DeleteNo ,afraid not.
ReplyDeleteHe won’t be bothered about that though.
They are concentrating on the paid members of staff and although there are apparently over 1000 volunteers they usually only choose to show one .
In fairness the two people who feature most,Piglet and Kieran are very personable.
“The Flying Scotsman” is currently with our local Steam Railway. It reopened “The Watercress Line” recently (after major bridge and roadworks taking over a year were undertaken) The area will be very busy this and next weekend that’s for sure 😉
ReplyDeleteMy cousin when he was younger was an occasional driver on the Watercress line, I think a Thomas the tank engine was involved. He also has shares in an engine being renovated down here in Cornwall. He was on board as a fireman shovelling the coal for years, and managed to chop off the top of a finger slamming the heavy fire door shut. Then he decided to go for his driver's certificate and was quite nervous about taking the test. Apparently you only got one chance to pass, and had to be very careful not to overshoot the platform.
ReplyDeleteTrains? Don't talk to me about trains! People of England, I have a message for you - you are trying to fit too many people on to too few trains! Yesterday was an unholy nightmare getting to Reading. Missed connections, dramatically overcrowded stations and carriages AND an unexpected visit to Birmingham. BIRMINGHAM! Who in their right mind goes to Birmingham!?
ReplyDeleteBut I got to here in the end, and I got pissed at he Museum of English Rural Life and I got a very good night's sleep in my hotel. Met quite a few of the other delegates last night, they're quite obviously mostly insane. But in a pleasant way. Off to breakfast now and then the conference proper.
Oh, Gary! Maybe fly next time! 🦅
DeleteEnjoy the conference and sock it to them tomorrow! Yes, we are all insane! Have seen people’s eyes glaze over when I talk about being an avid listener of TA! 🥳
DeleteGary, sacrilege, Birmingham is the the HOME of the Archers. Agree about the trains, awful.
DeleteThe wine couldn’t have been too warm, enjoy the day.
If Mr. K Davies is present could you please give him a message from me,
Enough of the Lillian/Lynda rubbish about the B@Ambridge.
Enjoy the day.
GG, that was yesterday. Pleased you got pissed AND had a good night's sleep. 😘 Today is an exciting new day!!
ReplyDeleteMy grandpa was a fireman on the railway in the 50's on the old E coast line down to Peterborough. He used to wave to us, it went past the bottom of our road.
ReplyDelete🤗 lovely!
DeleteMum used to chivvy us out to the front gate to wait!
DeleteI laughed at the insane comment.
ReplyDeleteI once took part in a quiz at our local library.
A woman came by herself and joined our team.
After a while she said to me”I bet you listen to The Archers” .
The worse thing though is if anybody assumes you are a teacher .
On the other hand if if I say I was a teacher and the person looks surprised, then that is is great.
How are you liking the little Museum Gary? I shall be tuning into some of the presentations today and am with you in thought, if not real, life ...... so frustrating as I am only 20 miles away!
ReplyDeleteOh lord, it has just started chucking down huge hailstones here! The sky is black and the wind is strong and the hailstones are bouncing off the windows and ground.
Welcome to Hampshire, Storm Jorge!
By the way, why Jorge?
I would have expected a female name beginning with E, after Ciara and Dennis. 💨💨💨🌨
Nothing as awful as your weather here (as yet) Archerphile. Sun then dark and a sharp shower, currently sun and even some blue sky - doubt it will last though. Very high winds are due I know. The new decade has not started very well has it one way and another!
DeleteStill our local man Bob who is now the oldest man in the world has seen it all and worse no doubt and he is still as bright as a button and with a good head of hair! The secret to longevity he says “is to avoid dying” 🤣🤣🤣 (and walking just along the road to visit the Waitrose girls me thinks......) not forgetting his toy making!
Ha😂 ! My dad could vouch for the girls at the "Big Shop", at least the Lincoln branch..
DeleteLady R......it reminds me of the American comedian George Burns when asked on his 90th birthday.
DeleteHow does it feel to be 90 Mr Burns?
"Well "he replied "it sure as hell beats the alternative "
Autumnleaves George Burns was so right 🤣🤣
DeleteBest wishes for the conference tomorrow Gary. I will try to listen as we are all staying in though the virus hasn't arrived here yet.
ReplyDeleteOn the live streaming. Dead easy.
ReplyDeleteYou tube. Search academic archers and it comes up to just click on live streaming.
I have just been listening to the conference and am not impressed. The presenter is simply delivering a regurgitation of what any listener already knows. How do Archer characters deal with crisis, Emma and housing and who is most supportive blah, blah. The presentation was lack lustre and lacked any dynamic content. If the Academic read this blog she would have gained better access to intellectual discourse on the programme than she actually delivered.
ReplyDeleteThought bronwen on retirement was enjoyable but the next woman on cate homes was as boring as hell.
ReplyDeleteThis Joanna on financially gullible is sending me to sleep!
CARE HOMES!!
DeleteI've not sat still in a chair for years! My bum has went to sleep...
ReplyDeleteSat here with KPNuts - we THINK we're having fun!
Good that you have been able to meet up and therefore stop your bum sleeping from escalating up your bodies to your 🧠
DeleteNo doubt you will brighten proceedings up tomorrow GG 👍
Can’t find it!
ReplyDeleteAcademic Archers live 2020 live from. you tube.
DeleteOmg. I want an ambridge cardigan. This woman on live screening now is wearing one.
ReplyDeleteIt's amazing isn't it! Was drinking with her last night- she's a hoot!
DeleteYes, she knitted herself. I wouldn’t be seen dead in it. Perhaps dead is the only way to wear it. 🧶🧶😱
DeleteGary. Can you wave a magic wand into some of these speakers and give them a personality.
DeleteIzzy wizzy........
DeleteI have to say that the Archers cardigan was a magnificent effort. The hours of designing , never mind the actual knitting it required, must have been huge and I congratulate the lady who put in so much time and effort. I might have tried such a garment myself when I still had a programmable knitting machine, but would never embark on such a task by hand!
DeleteI
Lanjan, I found it by going to Google, putting ‘Academic Archers on Youtube’ in search box. You then scroll down past 2018, 2019, to live streaming 2020 and click on that. At the moment a woman is speaking but I missed the start of her topic!
ReplyDeleteI was sorry to see some criticism of the organisation of last nights party at the conference on Facebook, because it finished a t 8pm. Apparently, the venue usually closes at 5pm so the University kept it open late for the delegates. Such a shame that folk (who probably did nothing to assist in the arrangements) felt the necessity to complain!
ReplyDeleteWe went to the pub afterwards, there was no reason why they couldn't have joined us all. Some people were just born to moan, weren't they?
DeleteGary....where are you sitting. I can’t see you
ReplyDeleteAre you on the back row in a dark jumper with a white stripe?
ReplyDeleteHa. Spotted both Gary and kp. 😊
ReplyDeleteIs he in the back row?
DeleteYes. Bald head, dark jumper with white hoops. KP to his right as we look. Khaki jacket.
ReplyDeletePtbY has told me what to do thanks,Archerphile,
ReplyDeleteThere is a woman knitting.
I don’t think it is an Ambridge jumper.
Gary please ,tell them that it isn’t all about Facebook and Twitter and Mustard land.
ReplyDeleteSome of us never look at those sites.
Why would we need to when we contribute to the best one?
Oh don't worry Lanjan, I'm telling them! I brought 100 badges with our blog address as well!
DeleteCoo-ee!
ReplyDeleteI feel like I’m there with you. Have even given up going to football to sit at home and watch it all.
ReplyDeleteI’m in an Archers T-shirt, not as good as the cardigan, I’ve had it many years.
ReplyDeleteEveryone seems friendly.
Well done KP. Hope you are enjoying yourself. Be a good drinking night later I guess.
DeleteYour brave as most seem to be wearing their outdoor clothes. Is cold in that lecture hall?
DeleteIt's warmer now stasia, but this morning it was bloody freezing.
DeleteMy T-shirt is under a very warm jacket (jacket open)
ReplyDeleteI'm watching but finding it difficult to hear. Too much echo for me, but it may be my hearing.
ReplyDeleteSo far no showing of the audience.
Does that happen from time to time ?
Wow so many comments about the Archers Academics, which seem to be enjoying.
ReplyDeleteIt is not right for me, but that is personal to me only. I love TA on a lesser level, with the S/Ls, the discussions and thoughts, it provokes to all.
I am so glad, that so many are involved in the conference and interacting with it.
I wish GG every Good Wish for tomorrow. 😁
DeleteThis latest storm has, thankfully, passed me by. I have had a couple of rain + hail events - however, it has been mostly sunny and cold, along with very strong winds, though.
ReplyDeleteTo those in flooded or "virus" hit areas, be they home or abroad - Take Care and I Wish You All Well.. 🤗🤗
Off to prepare + cook a Roast Chicken dinner. Back tomorrow.
DeleteGary, if it's possible to ask, would the AA organisers consider publishing the papers on line or in their newsletter.
ReplyDeleteI am particularly interested in the current gentleman discussing amateur dramatics, but only catching about two thirds of his words.
Have yet to see the camera(S) on the audience.
Wow I am sooo impressed...you got a prize!!
ReplyDeleteWell done you......🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Lots of applause for a very surprised Gary
ReplyDeleteGary....many congrats on the award. And you haven’t even done anything yet!!!!!🏆
ReplyDeleteWow. Congratulations Gary, winning an award and you haven’t presented your paper, yet.
ReplyDeleteYou really must have impressed them.👏🎉
Enjoy the dinner and I’m looking forward to tomorrow.
Well done for getting an award GG.
ReplyDeletePerhaps next week you can tell us why and what for.
Didn't understand when the presenter said they had waited some years ?
You and KP have a good evening and I hope I can wake up early enough to see your presentation in the morning.
Please remind us all what time you are on.
9.25......
DeleteWell done Gary.
ReplyDelete.
I spoke far too soon, as sleet is now falling, very heavily.
ReplyDeleteOh dear, just ignore me, as this is not AA orientated.
Definitely leaving now. 😣
Miriam, if you don't want to join in then don't join in. You don't have to tell us twice that you're not interested. We get it.
DeleteOh, Gary, be careful. I’m sure you meant this with a smile but in writing with no expression it sounds like a rebuke. I’m sure not so.😊 Congrats on the award. You are just how I imagined! So often with TA seeing the actors they don’t look at all how I pictured them!
Delete👏👏⏱🍾🍾
ReplyDeleteMiriam enjoy your chicken dinner.
ReplyDelete🎉 Congrats Gary !😁
ReplyDeleteDog news alert
ReplyDeleteJust a little bit more of the Lady story.
On the 19 th February Lady reached her first ' gotcha ' day.
It passed without any fuss, just a normal day.
But here we are at one year and she is doing very well on the ' being alone' front.
We have now reached ten minutes.
This means that I can be out of and away from the house with her inside alone, without any problems, for precisely ten minutes at a time.
Every time I leave her I say in a cheerful voice ' won't be long ' and I step out of the door with my coat and boots on. The coat and boots are still a trigger, she thinks I am taking her out when she sees me don them.
Lady goes to the window and watches me leave. I make sure I walk past the window so that she can see I have gone and then walk out of sight.
I don't stay out for ten minutes each time but vary from three or five or more minutes but so far she has done at least one ten minute period each day for over a week.
When I return she is at the window and returns to the door when she sees that I am back. When coming into the house again it is important to not allow a fuss to be made. She is getting better at this too. Previously she would paw at the back of my legs for attention, but is doing that less and less.
My greatest fear, that she would trash, bite, chew at items, or lose control of her bowel or bladder has not happened, and as I can see her some of the time from a window she is unaware of, she is not hyperventilating at all. She seems to have gone beyond the ''wondering ' stage and is now understanding that she has been left alone, but she is still looking for me to return.
This is a very slow process but it's working.
Enjoy your supper Miriam, what will you watch on television tonight ?
Just caught up on the last conference session and kept a special lookout for Gary and KP, having seen the comments above.
ReplyDeleteWey hey Gary and KP! I picked you both out and it’s so exciting to know what you look like - never having met before. It will be lovely to picture the faces that go with the comments on these blogs in future.
Enjoy tomorrow Gary, and safe home KP. 🙋🏼♀️
Hey, just located Gary picking up his award from 2 very pleasant ladies, both broad in the beam, one in red, the other in black, 'So surreal!' he says, &, if I hadn't been holding the phone, I would have clapped & cheered! Fantastic, Gary & well done 😀
ReplyDelete(It's quite tricky on the phone to HEAR & SEE at the same time, so only caught snatches here & there so far.)
As a former ‘broad in the beam’ lady, I too noticed the number of such well endowed ladies that seemed to be running the conference. They reminded me very much of local WI members. Large ladies with superb organisational skills and great fashion sense, unafraid (as I always was) of putting themselves on show. Well done them.
DeleteMrs P. Gary is on at 9.25am.
ReplyDeleteYay young Gary ⭐️ 👏🏻 very well done ⏱ looking forward to tomorrow!
ReplyDeleteWow what an Archers jacket that lady had knitted for herself 🤗 I wonder how long that took!!!
I wish I had continued to watch the Conference.
ReplyDeleteI chose to watch my football team who are the leaders of the Premiership at the moment play a team who are fighting relegation and they were rubbish.
The good thing about Liverpool Supporters though is that when our team plays appallingly
badly ,they will clap the victors.
Today Watford outshone Liverpool
Well done them.
(Doesn’t make me feel overjoyed though)
BiL supports Watford....👎 Town lost 0-3 👎
DeleteGreat photo of Gary on Twitter with very excited women “oh Gary, we have been waiting for you!” Do we know yet what the award is in aid of?
ReplyDeleteAll the best for tomorrow Gary and it’s great you and KP are having a good time. I missed all the fun when out today but I will be there virtually in the morning.
Miriam, hope you enjoyed your chicken as much as we did our chicory gratin. Yum/miam.
ReplyDeleteFor those who might have missed today's live screening, it is possible to still see the proceedings on YouTube.
ReplyDeleteI have watched several pieces late into this evening.
I'm glad you said that, Mrs P. I haven't watched any of the conference today and will be out tomorrow when Gary is on. I hope to catch up with it all later.
ReplyDeleteLovely to read the comments from today.
Gary 4.06pm yesterday re cards
ReplyDeleteWill we have to hire a Hall for our next Meet Up? 😊
Congrats on the award.
Just waiting to find out if it's for your 'academic paper' or something else?
Most Promising Newcomer?
ReplyDeleteFantastic Gary! 👏👏
ReplyDeleteWoohoo Gary - brilliant!!😂👍👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 and great for plugging our lovely blog and lovely Ruthy😘
ReplyDeletePhew just found it in time......your a hard act to follow Gary.....laughed out loud several times...😂😂😂😂
ReplyDeleteBTW....loved the trews
DeleteThank you for making me laugh out loud Gary. Wonderful presentation.
ReplyDeleteBravo Gary! Managed to connect about half way through your ‘tour de force’ (said in a Lynda Snell accent!)
ReplyDeleteI knew nothing about The Simpsons but loved your presentation and giggled several times - as did the audience in the hall.
So lovely to hear your voice and great Scottish accent - that is how I shall read your posts from now on.
So, very very well done and also congrats on all the publicity for our blogs. I suspect we’ll get lots of new members very soon
👏👏👏👏👏
Surreal wit indeed ! Very clever, such fun, Gary, & the live audience clearly loved it, a 'tonic' as the lady in red said afterwards when the thunderous applause died down...Many, many congratulations, Gary.
ReplyDeleteGoodness look at the audience...everybody's knitting😀😀
ReplyDeleteEven the men?
DeleteSuperbly done Gary, I take it your not a fan of Hannah😁.
DeleteI watched yesterday and Imo your presentation and the following one from the medic were the best.
Both very clever. Springfield like Ambridge are not places I would like to live.
But I think the medic and her focus groups definitely need to see her psychiatrist colleague.
Archerphile.I am prone to exaggeration.
DeleteMr 🍁🍁 often tells me...??? I've told you a million times dont exaggerate!
Well done Gary. Loved your confident and funny presentation - am still chuckling.
ReplyDeleteI may be wrong, but I think the next speaker at 11.15 used to be a minister at my mother’s church, and took my uncle’s funeral!
ReplyDeleteI dipped into it yesterday and can honestly say your talk, Gary, was a breath of fresh air after some of those speakers! I thought the ladies introducing the day got a bit silly over nothing and the lady quaffing her coffee could have waited to drink it until out of the limelight! Maybe my long ago naval training makes me a bit too picky over these things!
ReplyDeleteJust managed to catch up with the first half of your talk Gary. which I missed live.
ReplyDeleteAnd I absolutely loved the way the audiences boo-ed at you mention of Hannah! She is obviously unpopular with many Archers fans and not just some of we bloggers.
If only she could really return to the US and bother some pigs there.
Sitting in a large hall, listening to the Archers omnibus with lots of people on their phones tweeting is slightly surreal.
ReplyDeleteI have posted my first, and probably last, tweet. I don’t think I’ll be getting into Twitter.
I think because you were a newcomer ,Gary ,you drew the short straw because folk were not prepared to come early on a Sunday morning and then have a wait of 75minutes before the next Presentation..
ReplyDeleteHowever those who didn’t come. missed a treat.
Why were there knitters in the room?
It is as bad as those women who knit whilst watching Cricket.
Next year I suspect you will get a prime slot.
Just caught up with your presentation Gary. Wow you were superb! Full of zest and fun and had the audience in the palm of your hand from the outset 👏🏻 ⭐️ A hard act to follow but I did like the GP’s comment that her presentation certainly would not last longer than 10mins
ReplyDeleteLanJan, they were saving the best til last
ReplyDeleteWhat a way this blog had come in slightly under 2 years. What the BBC ended Ruthy and your good self have improved beyond measure. Meet ups and now an Archers presentation.
ReplyDeleteGrateful thanks to you both ⭐️ ⭐️
Fab Gary. Definitely saved the best till last. You were very amusing. Nice to have given Ruthy a mention, I often wonder how she’s doing.
ReplyDeleteYou’ll be prime speaker next year!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉🏆
Thank you all sooooo much for the lovely comments! It was nerve wracking but I did actually enjoy myself....
ReplyDeleteI do hope you were looking in Ruthy! We haven't forgotten you!!!
Would you go again Gary?
ReplyDeleteI love the Archers and I love knitting but I think I'd rather enjoy them in the comfort of my own home.
Apart from you and maybe a couple of others it was a bit of a yawnfest . Maybe they should drop the academics and lighten up a bit.
Formidable GG ! 👏Un grand merci. 💐🍾
ReplyDelete🤣 Delightful presentation Gary 🥂
ReplyDeleteGary, it was obvious you enjoyed yourself, no sign of nerves and NO UMS!
ReplyDeleteWell done.
I did listen for a bit yesterday, but the speaker was so poor and every other word was umm, that I gave up and tuned in to you earlier today.
Gary you were fantastic and the audience obviously loved you.
ReplyDeleteSuch applause at the announcement of your name suggests to me that you have become a hit with all those woman during your time off air.
KP will be able to affirm this I'm sure.
I've watched a great deal besides yourself, and have been very interested in all the presentations but have gained little enjoyment due to the very bad echo. I have only been able to catch every third word and so it is very taxing to watch and listen and then only get the gist of a presentation.
I agree with Ev, I wasn't too taken with the two presenters the main one seemed to me to be a rather silly person.
I think the coffee situation seems to be every where now. It's as though not one person in the universe can get through fifteen minutes without a paper cup in their hands.
Perhaps it has become a ' prop'
As for the knitting...... I don't have a problem.
Many years ago a neighbour who knitted at all times including on car journeys ( she didn't drive) produced the most wonderful garments, and in Putney the Knitting Concerts are still going strong, where the audience is invited to bring knitting or embroidery or any other silent activity to the concert.
Seasider, was that person who you thought she was, the funeral director ?
Will you be able to find out.
KP, I actually felt sorry for the woman who followed Gary.
ReplyDeleteIs it over now?
Gary, was your award for what I thought it was ie Most promising newcomer?
Sorry ,don’t agree with you about the knitting Mrs P but perhaps there was something on the booking form which said”Please bring your knitting “ or “Knitting permitted” otherwise why would you?
ReplyDeleteMrs P, I was referring to Rev Dr Jonathan Hustler who spoke this morning about Shula wanting to be a vicar, and the selection process to assess her suitability.
ReplyDeleteI have googled him and it is the same person. He’s a Methodist and one of his profiles mentions his avid interest in the Archers, and his writing about it. It also mentions the areas where he has worked, including where my mother lives.
Very well done Gary!! Enjoyed listening to and seeing you. I hope you're enjoying your time there. I missed the famous cardigan - was it featured somewhere?
ReplyDeleteIt does seem now that so many people have to carry a cup with them. I hope there's tea available too. I don't even like the smell of coffee.
I think they were all inspired by the Archers cardigan and decided to run one up while they were there.
ReplyDeleteTher was only one woman wearing the Archer cardigan, and she spoke yesterday. You certainly wouldn’t miss her or the cardigan.
DeleteKind of reminds me of these Star Trek conventions where trekkies dress up as Spock and co.
DeleteImpressive but hideous... (the cardigan.. 😉)
DeleteI’d go as one of the Button sisters, dressed a one big Button. There be no buttoning me up. I’d be a green one, gift of the gab.🗣
DeleteI have no room to talk with regard to knitting.
ReplyDeleteI used to knit when I was at school during some lessons.
Why was it never noticed?
I remember once dropping a knitting needle in maths and even then it wasn’t commented upon.
I
My highlight was a scarf in Norwich City colours (for boyfriend, not me, hasten to add...)
DeleteI have a friend who used to knit on long haul plane journeys and could complete a cardigan over the Atlantic. She was bereft when they banned knitting needles on flights in case they were used as a lethal weapon!
ReplyDeleteAs an addicted knitter I have to disagree with Lanjan about knitting when watching cricket.
ReplyDeleteBefore I started scoring for our club I did used to knit during matches (it was when the children were young and needed lots of sweaters etc)
If you are doing fairly plain knitting, which becomes an automatic finger action, there is no problem with watching the match - or TV programme or anything else, for that matter.
But I would never attempt to do a complicated pattern like Aran or intarsia because you would be unable to concentrate on what’s happening in front of you.
But I must say, I much preferred scoring because you get really involved in the match and all the players treat you with respect, so you don’t miss any of their runs, catches or wickets!
And, you are allowed to indulge in the cricket tea with the players as well 😋
Perhaps I should qualify by adding that I do think it’s a bit rude and disrespectful to knit in a meeting. I used to have to take minutes at the local Council planning meetings and one councillor insisted on knitting throughout the meeting, another got her tapestry frame and all her wools out.
ReplyDeleteNot very professional, I thought!
It implies boredom with the proceedings so why go in the first place?!!
ReplyDeleteExactly the point I was trying to make earlier ,Ev.
ReplyDeleteArcherphile I am sure you would never have knitted if watching a County Match or a Test Match though .
What if you were caught on camera ?
You would never live it down.
On the other hand when going to some of the Out Grounds when sitting in a deck chair I have been known to “drop off” so maybe that is as bad.
Let's put it this way...you do t get many knitters in a Scoland-England rugby match...mmmm wonder why
ReplyDeleteBefore reading any other comments today, Gary, I just want to say that I loved your presentation. And well done for getting an award yesterday.
ReplyDeleteGreat to see you on screen, and to be able to put a face to your name and comments.
Now to read the previous comments ...
All I can contribute today, is:-
ReplyDeletea) I got all my bedding + towels, washed, and then dried outside, on the line, today. It was sunny, breezy but cold.
b) I also did a bit more of my latest knitting project. This is a DK crew-neck jumper (for me), with a lacey, central pattern, on the back + front and also, up the sleeves. It is being knitted, in a very vivid red yarn.
To add, my Roast Chicken Dinner, last night was delicious.
DeleteSadly, it was eaten solo, as my dinner guests had to cancel. They live, over "the border" and snow was falling heavily, so decided not to venture out. This, I understood
entirely,
I now have some containers (in my recently defrosted freezer), of R.Chicken, with gravy + home-made stuffing - apricot, herbs, garlic, breadcrumbs, bacon and a small portion of sausagemeat.
Gary - managed to give you a bit of a puff on the FB Academic Archers page and publicise our blog again. One of the other comments said your piece was one of the two utterly brilliant talks this morning, so give yourself a huge pat on the back and a great big whisky when you get home 🥃
ReplyDeleteI find it puzzling that women sat and knitted around the French guillotine.
ReplyDeleteJanice, didn’t they knit the names of the people into whatever garments they were making ?
ReplyDeleteI know that Dickens in his Tale of Two Cities said they did, and I suppose he must have heard it from somewhere.
DeleteJust to say - will open new blogs tomorrow morning. Bit difficult to do it from my tablet whilst on the train. And my wee brain is frazzled.
ReplyDeleteRemember, if it reaches 200 comments then click on the little "read more" sign that pops up at the bottom! Nighty night.......😴
Sweet dreams Gary, you deserve a good rest now; and good for KPnuts in getting there and keeping you company.
DeleteDelicious, precious sleep! Chance would be a fine thing Janice - still on the bleedin' train. Not too long to go though, hop into a cab & THEN I can fall into sleep's sweet embrace....
DeleteGary, I hope your return journey is going smoothly.
ReplyDeleteI was glad to have a companion, although you would have been fine, lots of people obviously warmed to you.
I realised that my fixation with the Archers is really quite mild compared to some, and that the fans are a very friendly bunch.
I'm just sorry I was far too preoccupied this morning to properly chat before we "had" to sit in silence! It was really great to have one face there that I knew KP - it was a pleasure!!
DeleteAnd you're right about the fervour of some of the crazy souls in that hall. A few of them seemed positively certifiable....(But in a nice way!)
I don’t think I would be comfortable with the preoccupation some folk have! I just enjoy TA and welcome my acquaintance through the years with the various characters still remembering Susan telling Neil she was pregnant and Jack Woolley proposing to Peggy (had me in tears while doing the gardening!) and Mark getting killed in the car crash among other things. Highs and lows we have lived with together!!
ReplyDeleteGolly Ev, me too, I often think of that evening when Susan told Neil, and when I do so, I always wonder why. It must have been a very powerful performance I think.
ReplyDeleteAs for Jack, didn't he propose to Peggy several times.
I never heard the accident with Mark and Caroline. I was on a plane coming back from Greece. If anyone knows of a way to hear it, I would be pleased to know.
Hope your home soon Gary and that sleep comes quickly.
I’m thinking of the time she accepted! When Mark died my husband came home from work finding me in tears. “What’s up?” “Mark has died” “Who’s Mark?” “Shula’s husband in the Archers” Burst of laughter from husband! That was all the sympathy I got!!😟
ReplyDeleteThanks Gary and KPNUTS for keeping us informed. The people in the lecture hall looked like a bunch of raggle taggle eccentrics. Perhaps I would have included myself had I decided to attend.
ReplyDeleteAs it is I’ve saved myself a few hundred pounds.
Had it been possible I would have gone on the Sunday, just to hear Gary.
Well done.
I remember listening to the omnibus as I drove my sons to rugby practise and staying in the car to listen to the end after they had piled out to get cganged.
ReplyDeleteSome minutes later I joined the other mums on the touchline and greeted them with the words
"I didn't know he was going to die!" The nearest ones turned to me in horror and asked who?
" Mark, Shula's husband!"
Oh yes we heard that during the week(Probably Friday?)
Nobody asked who were Mark and Shula!
If I remember correctly the car accident was not trailed by the BBC but when Polly Perks died in the car crash with Pat it was advertised that it was going to happen. I wonder which is the most successful strategy to attract audiences?