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Life outside Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments" - Episode 14 Life Outside Ambridge Have a seat and let's chat.
Archerphile - June 19, 2020 at 9:14 AM
ReplyDeleteDon't want to be disrespectful, or upset any Vera Lynn fans here but -
If I hear one more rendition of ‘We’ll Meet Again’ on Radio or TV I think I’ll scream!
Proud to be Yorkshire - June 19, 2020 at 9:24 AM
With you there. She made a good career out of 2 songs.
EvJune 19, 2020 at 9:26 AM
Yes, I got a bit sick of it yesterday when it was played at every hourly news bulletin!
carolyn - June 19, 2020 at 9:38 AM
Glad to say I missed all that, only catching the longish 1pm news item. I admire her, that stalwart, wholesome character, but with others who don't care much for her music - not the sort of songs I'd seek out ! However, very effective & stirring at the time.
stasia - June 19, 2020 at 9:42 AM
It is all jingoistic rubbish.
*** THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ***
ReplyDeleteOver to you, Archerphile... Enjoy!
Oo- er.....all I can say at the moment is that it will be books, not films.
DeleteBack later!
Ta!
DeleteVera Lynn was 103 years of age .
ReplyDeleteI can never understand it when people are devastated when someone of that age dies.
There was another singer around at the time who also went and entertained the troops .
She was given an OBE.
I think (I do not remember !) her song was "I'll be seeing you in all the old familiar places"
Perhaps if she'd had two songs, she might have beEn made a Dame
It is a bit like people referring to folk like Mary Baker or Joanna Lumley as one of the Nation's Treasures.
Who says so?
The Queen Mother was described as "Britain's favourite grandmother"
She wasn't mine
I think, for us oldies, that the passing of someone who has been around all our lives gives us a sense of insecurity. It's the same when parents die. I thought it was me but more than a few friends have said that when you become an orphan (at whatever age) it sort of exposes you and makes you feel vulnerable.
DeleteWhen my aunt by marriage passes on (she's 87) I shall be the oldest in our family, as I am the oldest of the oldest as it were.
Me !! A Matriarch! 😁
Anyway I am sad about Vera Lynn but admit she had a 'good' life. She did do a lot for morale in WW2 and did expose herself to danger. To travel to Burma to the troops there must have taken courage. Last night she read from one of her diaries where she said that one night she 'slept' on a stretcher balance on two chairs!
I have the utmost respect and gratitude to the WW2 generation and feel sadness every year on Remembrance Day. I especially think of my grandfather (invalided out of the army in 1941 and who died at the age of 44 in 1946;) my grandmother who struggled to raise her three children, who were still at home, on a War Widows' Pension and my Dad who spent 6 years from the age of 17 on Ack ack guns protecting factories and docks. So many sacrifices from so many. If they gained comfort of being reminded of home and their loves I am glad they had Vera Lynn and her 'jingoistic rubbish.'
I meant that there was a film of her reading from one of her diaries!
DeleteAn excellent post spicy.
DeleteThe above post was written by " discounted of Tunbridge Wells "
ReplyDeleteHowever I agree with her every word.
And I agree with all the other posts on the subject of yesterday's loss of a national treasure too.
ReplyDeleteSorry Stasia, I do not agree that her songs were ‘ jingoistic rubbish’ at all. They were the songs of that era, appropriate to the times and enjoyed by thousands. They obviously hold precious memories for those alive at the time and especially the troops she entertained
ReplyDeleteWhat I was objecting to was the constant playing and replaying of that one song, over and over again on every news programme and magazine show. And, to some extent, the heroine worship piled onto a singer who, admittedly bought comfort to many over 70 years ago .....but has dined out on those songs and memories ever since.
Admiring someone who has managed to live until the age of 103 is one thing (as with the Queen Mother and the Archers own June Spencer) but the sainthood that she seemed to be reaching yesterday was very over the top, as far as I was concerned.
But I’d better shut up and concentrate on my book list!
I have no negative feelings towards Vera Lynn, she was the troops sweetheart and I can appreciate what she meant for them.
ReplyDeleteLanjan, I agree absolutely, my grandmother lived to a hundred in good health and said that it was a bit too much, how long can one go on. I have since reviewed my image of her and with hindsight she definitely isn't my favourite, but my personal opinion of many people has changed over the last 15 years.
You did mean Mary Berry, not Baker I suppose?
I like Joanna Lumley, but national treasure to me belongs in a museum, I doubt either of them would like that.
Maybe a bit of jingoism was needed during the war. I often feel glad I was born after it was over! So often people are elevated to sainthood in the eyes of many after they die but we have to face the fact we all have feet of clay whilst in our earthly life!
ReplyDeleteIt is interesting that the word Jingo had its origins in a music hall song during the Turkish-Russian war of 1878. These songs reflected a British hostility and nationalistic chauvinism toward the Russians.
ReplyDeleteGovernments encourage continued celebrations of successive wars by encouraging the population to participate in theses songs, never letting us forget individuals ‘treasures’, all done with endless flag waving.
This level of so called patriotism only enhances the feelings of disapproval in many individuals who think their views and beliefs about other nationalities is right.
By Jesus, its Jingo-ism.
I don’t think we celebrate war. Rather we remember it and those whose lives were taken away so that we can enjoy freedom. Also there’s no crime in being proud of the country which has nurtured us.
ReplyDeleteMy lovely mum with my grandma lived through the blitz in central London and I have huge respect for that generation and what they endured during the war. We should never forget their sacrifices. I don't think there's enough patriotism actually.
ReplyDeleteI don’t have any problem with the concept of being patriotic, it’s what others do with it and how it is projected and expressed.
DeleteI've always found the entire concept of patriotism slightly bizarre. I just don't really get it. In my mind I just happen to have been born where I was born, for better or for worse. Usually a mix of both!
DeleteI was born in Scotland, brought up in England and glad to be British! My loyalty is to Queen and country and if that’s being patriotic I apologise!!
ReplyDeleteAbove was meant kindly not with a sting!😊
ReplyDeleteEcho Stasia's comment above, 1:56.
ReplyDeleteReasonably patriotic when it comes to football, rugby, cricket, etc....
Please retract your apology for being patriotic Ev.
ReplyDeleteIt is certainly not required by me.
I was born in the middle of the war, and have very early memories of being in the Anderson Shelter and hiding under a table when not. I could apparently tell the difference between British and German aircraft at age two.
My father had done twenty years or more in the British Army in Ireland at seventeen and in Africa where he contracted Malaria and a tape worm. During WW11 he was training troops and keeping fires at bay in London, organising salvage when fires were out.
When a country is in conflict with another it is not jingoistic to rally the populace in order to raise and maintain morale.
Vera Lynn did that with bells on and it is appropriate that she is celebrated and remembered for what she did for those in the forces abroad, and their sweethearts and families back home.
Yesterday she was celebrated rather fully. I too turned the news off eventually, thinking that there must have been a paucity of other news available in order to afford such over the top news of her death.
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteWell, how about a big change of subject folks?
ReplyDeleteHere is my list of my 5 (only 5 is cruel Gary!) favourite books. This has been even more difficult that choosing DIDs. When you are 74 and have read hundreds of books it is almost almost impossible to pare down to just and my list will probably change tomorrow, but here goes:
1) The Enchanted Wood by Enid Blyton
My absolute favourite childhood book. Being virtually an only child with very controlling parents I so envied the children in the book being allowed to go off for the day unaccompanied to explore a wood and have marvellous adventures at the top of the Faraway Tree. Magical.
2) Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
The first ‘adult’ book I read as a teenager. I was captivated by the wonderful house and gardens at Manderly and fascinated by the creepy housekeeper, Mrs Danvers. Very clever writing with an unexpected twist at the end.
3) Thé Go-Between by L P Hartley
Another book full of upper-class atmosphere, the suffocating heat of a long hot summer and the ‘growing-up’ of a naive young boy. ....and the film version was wonderful too!
4) An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris
All about the infamous Dreyfus affair in late C19 France. I’d been told about this affair by my father years ago - how a Jewish French soldier was wrongly convicted of spying and sent to Devil’s Island. Harris describes the anti-semitism in the French government and military of the era and gives fascinating descriptions life in Paris and North Africa at the time and then the second trial, partly prompted by the writings of Émile Zola, which brought Dreyfus home and cleared his name.
5) The Secret Lives Of Colour by Kassia St Clair
Not a novel, this is a fascinating dictionary of just about every shade of colour you could find in an artist, or designers studio. From Lead White to Pitch Black every shade is described in detail, where it comes from, how it was discovered, when it was first used, how it’s made, it’s place in the history of art and stories in folklore. It’s a beautifully produced book with each page edged in the colour it is describing. A must for budding artist or anyone who just loves colour.
And that’s it. But if Gary asked me next week it could be different, but The Enchanted Wood would always be number one.
Favourite meal ?
Avodaco with prawns in garlic mayonnaise
Roast Chicken with all the trimmings, cranberry sauce, roast King Edward potatoes, peas and spinach
Winchester Mess. ( same as Eaton Mess but with raspberries rather than strawberrys), if it is in Summer
Or
Cartmel Sticky Toffee Pudding with extra sauce and cream, if it’s in Winter.
Thank you AP!
DeleteI love Enid Blyton, NEVER read any du Maurier (yet!) and am dimly aware of the Hartley & Harris. The Secret Lives of Colour is one I shall Google immediately - that's a book that appeals to me greatly!
Never eaten a prawn. Never will. They APPAL me.
Roast chicken? If someone else makes it.
Sticky Toffee Pudding? YES PLEASE!
Archerphile I also loved Rebecca as a teenager. The book about colours sounds interesting. I enjoyed the film of the Go Between but haven't read the book.
DeleteLove both your desserts. Will pass on all the other courses.
Apology retracted, Mrs P! I just can’t understand the typically British reticence about being proud of our country. Sure there are things in our past which have blotted our copybook but talking of the war for instance we stood up to Hitler and his evil almost alone for three long years until the USA came along in 1942. We should be proud of that. There are many faults in our society but we are a clever nation on the whole and can be proud of our achievements. I rest my case!
ReplyDeleteHear hear Ev.
DeleteAs probably the oldest "resident" I can, as a small boy, remember the war. Vera Lynn was revered for her morale boosting work. Look at the films showing what her visits did for our troops well away from home.
DeleteIt is sad when anyone dies. It is not a shock that someone who has had a good life dies at the age of 103. She has been a symbol of those dark days and her passing marks another step in time.
I cannot see that "we'll meet again" or "white cliffs of Dover" can possibly be construed as Jingoistic
Archerfile, posted my last and then realised that at about the same time you had given us your favourite books! I love “Rebecca” too and enjoyed the original! I must source the last book about colour. One of the most difficult things about painting is getting the colours you want to put down on paper but am working on it! Thank you, loved your selection and notably the perfect meal which I 100% agree with!😊
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed the original film! (Laurence Olivier & Joan Fontaine)
ReplyDelete✔️✔️✔️🤗
DeleteI agree with Stasia too. It's perfectly natural & right to be attached to your native, or adopted, land, to feel affection & loyalty, but it is surely repellent not to respect such feelings in others who live elsewhere &, worse, to claim superiority over their nations. That's where war comes in & 'jingoism' (thanks for the background on that, Stasia - didn't know the origin ).
ReplyDeleteIn recent years, I've come to dislike remembrance days - since when has remembering in that formal way stopped war ? It just glorifies, & sentimentalises it, which is disgusting.
However, are Vera Lynn's songs jingoistic ? She didn't judge, or make any kind of intellectuaI or moral statement, but responded in a clear & simple way to the situation as it was, meaning what people were going through in time of war, namely the pain of separation, fear, & suffering. Love of country came into it, for sure, but not hatred of others. I think that separates her oeuvre from aggressive & nationalistic slogans, verses & songs which are jingoistic & warmongering.
Thank-you Archerphile for your book list.
ReplyDeleteAgain, I have surprised myself, as know the first 4, but no idea for the 5th, and I thought I knew nothing. The little "grey cells" have been brought back to life..🤣😁
I so enjoyed the Enid Blyton (and the related books) and Daphne du Maurier, is an author I have read + enjoyed.
The meal sounds delicious, but can I have the avocado without the prawns, as I am intolerant to seafood + shellfish.
I think I know now, why so many books are familiar. My late father was an avid reader, and often passed books on to me. I read these (more out of duty than anything else) so I could talk to him about them, at a later date. I was a dutiful daughter..
DeleteI so enjoyed "The Magic Faraway Tree".
DeleteI can describe myself as Mrs Wishy-Washy - at the moment. I realised today, that Big Sis's hubbie has a birthday on Tues. I was not going out to a shop, just to buy a card. I found a lovely NT card of a Puffin (he is a bird lover) in a drawer, so I wrote it and posted, hopefully in time, as the only stamps I have are 2nd class left-over Christmas stamps! 😃
Archerphile, the only one I'm not familiar with is Enid Blyton, though I've heard of her a lot.
ReplyDeleteI've read 2 & 3 and saw the films, TV productions.
No4 - I'm familiar with the Dreyfus affair and Emile Zola's exile to London and later death attributed to his J'accuse, Dreyfus was present at his funeral.
No5 was Book of the Week and it prompted me to read it.
I'm not at all patriotic but have felt an affinity for the places where I've lived.
ReplyDeleteArcherphile and Basia -
ReplyDeleteWell I missed that book of the week.... NO I DIDNT !
I've just realised I did hear it, but AP your description has given me a better taste than book of the week.
It certainly sounds right up my street, not as a painter but certainly as one very interested in colour.
I've never read any D du M but would like to one of these days.
AP - did you hear the recent programme on R 4 about the Dreyfus affair ? It threw a different, more recent light on it.
I'm a ban Enid Blyton person. My children never even allowed to see such books.
Sixties mindset at the time. I sometimes wonder why now.
I would like to read The Gobetween again sometime. I remember the film more than the book. I put that down to being a visual person.
I feel the same about The English Patient, though re read that recently and had better pictures in my head from reading after seeing the film again.
Like Miriam I am allergic to sea food, so would do without the prawns, but a roast chicken Sunday lunch if cooked by someone else is always welcome.
Carolyn a beautiful contribution in your final para. Spot on.
I went through a phase in earlier years of dismissing Remembrance Day, but returned to my roots of reflection and respect.
Ev, 3.19 - I agree.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Archerphile. How interesting it is to read everyone's choices ! Would chomp away at all your food options except sticky toffee pudding ( but that would be Mr C's favourite)
ReplyDeleteAgree, 74 likewise, very hard to decide on just 5 books, which is why I chose films for this round.
Enjoyed the Famous 5 & Malory Towers series but never read your Blyton book.
Rebecca is pretty dated but a damn good read, & very much in accordwith all you said about The Go-Between, the whole atmosphere of the novel, & the fairly recent An Officer & a Spy ----surely one of R.Harris's best.
Your last sounds very interesting -- will.pursue.
Thank you !
I've received a little parcel through my letterbox today.
ReplyDeleteSuch a thrill.
I never get parcels as a rule, and rarely letters.
And the contents were intriguing too.
A thank you card is on the way.
Yes of course I meant Mary Berry ,Basia .
ReplyDeletePlease can I correct a misunderstanding. I never said V Lynn’s songs were Jingoistic. I was referring to the constant use of her, the songs and wars.
ReplyDeleteNo more.
Certainly concur there, Stasia. Right to celebrate her endeavour & long life, but it was over egged, as others on here feel, &, what's more, done to get us into a war time mind set, I suspect,
DeleteWhoops ! Published too soon... which is not appropriate. What we are in currently is a pandemic, not war, which divides, but a world wide crisis which invites mutual support.
DeleteStasia and Carolyn, that’s how I understood your posts, as a response to AP saying the media had overdone it yesterday. They do overegg the pudding and saying that is no disrespect to Vera Lynn or those who were conscripted or have had to live through war.
ReplyDeleteArcherphile, I only know Rebecca and The Go-Between and found the books and film versions very interesting. My school was very anti Blyton as Mrs P describes but I did enjoy some of the famous five stories for the same reason you describe.
Love your meal but would leave out the mayo, cream and spinach. I know spinach is good for you but...😑
I absolutely loved Enid Blyton I read nearly all her books and passed them on to my girls who loved them also.
ReplyDeleteI am especially happy this evening as my younger daughter who lives in New York has just arrived within the past hour in Glasgow to see her sister. They have both been alone and isolated for the past 3 months.I will sleep well tonight.
I love avocado I love prawns.
Roast chicken is always a bit dry and no desert thank you.the idea of sticky toffee pudding put my teeth on edge...or at least glued together..can't afford the dental work.
How lovely your daughters are meeting up. The one who has come from NY, does she now have to self-isolate, for a further 14days?
DeleteYes Miriam but it's no bother at least they have company now.
DeleteHow Wonderful. How long will the NY daughter be staying?
DeleteYou must be delighted.
It is a shame, you are not with them - so near, yet so far.
Thank you all for your comments about my book list. Much appreciated. I think I am going to ask the author of The Secret Lives of Colour for a little commission on sales of her book as it seems that many of you may be buying it! 😊
ReplyDeleteI’ve ordered it from Amazon!😊
DeleteI will be ordering it!
DeleteGary, thank you for the illustration at the top of the page. My precious version, which I still have, was an earlier edition, much less airy-fairy like, with more realistic looking children, but I think it would impossible to find now. My copy had lots of black and white illustrations which I clumsily tried to colour in with crayons. I am ashamed to say my 5 year old’s artwork is still there today, defacing my much loved book, but bringing back so many memories.
ReplyDeleteThat is a true piece of memorablia, and so well treasured.
DeleteIt reminds me of my Mums edition of Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfield, which I remember as a child. It disappeared - probably ending up on a stall in a "bring and buy" sale, as did so much more, including a wonderful hard back edition of Peter Pan. This had wonderful illustrations, with interleaved "glass" pages (sorry I don't know the right word).
DeleteKaty still has the full set of The Faraway Tree etc. She is dyslexic, not picked up until university! Enid Blyton set her off reading but her writing is bad although she says it doesn’t matter so much now in the computer age. Like Mike she speed reads and can read a book in a couple of hours when I take about a week. It is incredible to see as she just constantly turns the pages but takes in every detail. He had the same ability but they both had and have in her case difficulty with spelling. I think Enid was discredited because of the bad gollies! Don’t dare give their full title! I had one as a child and loved him! It seems a bit petty to me. She fuelled children’s imagination and took us to a magic place.
DeleteI should add re Katy’s spelling that she has a very high intelligence which has enabled her to compensate and find ways round it. Hence the fact that her dyslexia wasn’t picked up earlier!
DeleteLoved your choices Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteOne of them is on my book list too.
(Another was on Seasider's) .
I loved The Wishing Chair and The Magic Faraway tree as well.
Mrs P I bet your girls read Enid Blyton surrepticiously .
Fancy trying to deprive them .
I think you should contact the author of the book you recommended to us ,Archerphile.
I have contacted several authors when I have enjoyed their books.
They are busy people and I never expect replies but all but one did reply .
One was an American author who had written her first book and asked for feedback .
I emailed her and she emailed back and we are still in touch.
When she had her second book published In this Country she invited me to the Book Launch and gave me a signed copy of the book.
Her first book is called "The Personal History of Rachel Du Pre'" and it is by Anne Weisgarber .
The film rights have been bought by Viola Davies who won an Oscar for her part in that brilliant film "The Help" .
It isn't on my book list but could well have been ,as could "The Help".
Love prawns but they don't love me.
I usually have avocado on toast.
(The best value avocados are from M and S )
Love the idea of Winchester Mess and sticky toffee pudding
I have seen the film "The Help" and I enjoyed your comments about the author etc.
DeleteHow lovely for your daughters ,Autumnleaves.
ReplyDeleteHow lovely for you too.
Archerphile and MrsP - CORRECTION
ReplyDeleteI've just looked at my bookshelf and the one that I read by K St Clair is "The Golden Thread" and it seems that this one as well as her first "The Secret lives of Colour" was on Book of the Week.
Autumnleaves - your daughters in Glasgow are more than welcome to swing by ours & have a cup of tea (or Irn Bru) if they are ever up the West End!
ReplyDeleteWell AP, pleased to say I loved the Faraway Tree (also the Wishing Chair) amongst many other EB childhood companions ...
ReplyDeleteRebecca has been a constant companion, also The Go-between, have to investigate the others.
Give me the avo & prawns, the more garlic the better, roast chicken bearable if someone else cooks it, keep the dessert. Bisous
Regarding ´The Help’ I read the book as it was recommended by my daughter - I don’t think I would have done so otherwise as I have never been keen on American literature.
DeleteBut I thoroughly enjoyed the book and became very involved with the characters.
So when the film came out I was, for once, keen to see it. I lasted about 20 minutes - none of the actors fitted my mInd’s eye pictures of what the characters should look like, nor the locations. I was bitterly disappointed and could watch no further.
The Faraway Tree yes yes yes !!! Wonderful.
ReplyDeleteWonderful, a fellow addict? To be honest I only read the first book in the series, The Enchanted Wood. I never realised until a couple of years ago that more volumes had been added to that first one.
DeleteI bought the others for my young grandson and was horrified to find that the current publishers have altered the original names of the children from Joe, Bessie and Fanny - to - Joe, Beth and Franny!
Political correction gone mad!
Must confess I also liked and found amusing the Mr Twiddle stories.
DeleteI queried why there weren't any Enid Blyton books at my childrens' Primary School book fairs, and my argument that she was a good storyteller didn't cut any ice at all.
I just found them elsewhere, and my daughter still says the faraway tree stories were her favourites.
Archerphile. Thank you for your book choices.
ReplyDeleteI have never really read any E Blyton. My primary school library had the Five Go etc but I didn’t relate to the children, so didn’t bother.
Have read and seen the old film of Rebecca which I found scary. Hitchcock again great at creating fear In the observer.
Poor Dreyfus a political scapegoat and Harris conveyed so well in his book. Polanski made a film about the scandal but don’t think many cinemas screened it.
Have read the Hartley and seen the film.
Don’t know The Secret lLives of Colour. Will look it up and ask my sister if she has got it.
So many activities to keep me busy.
Regarding contacting authors of books : - Lanjan 7.36 last night.
ReplyDeleteI have done just that with two of my favourite current authors, Ann Cleeve and Stephen Booth
(I think Miriam will be familiar with the latter)
I wrote to Anne Cleve about the end of the Shetland series and the first book in her new series set in North Devon. I received a very interesting reply from her and was invited to join her Facebook group which I have done. There, she invites readers to join in with book readings and asks for opinions and suggestions for future books.
Stephen Booth writes crime novels set in the Peak District and gives the most wonderful descriptions of the area, so much so that I can read with Google Earth open next to me and follow the exact progress of the ‘action’ on the map and zoom in to see exactly what and where he is describing (currently we are up on Kinder Scout, investigating the death of a rambler!)
I wrote to him praising his books (18 now, and I have every one) and putting various questions to him which he helpfully answered, in detail. He now informs me when another book is being written, where he is going to give talks to book groups etc.
I find it very pleasant to be in touch with authors and although I know I am only one of hundreds of ‘fans’ it does make me feel closer to them.
The book and film choices are great and have kept me happily occupied investigating them.
ReplyDeleteI had a film binge this week and watched several that have been mentioned.
The book on colour sounds intriguing. I recently saw a fascinating three part programme on BBC4 called Chemistry, A Volatile History and one of the things explained was the discovery of Prussian Blue.
On Thursday I had my first espresso since lockdown began. I met a friend at a coffee bar (outside table, one metre apart, masks on - except when actually drinking, naturally!!) and we lent each other books. She is from Barnstaple and lent me one by Ann Cleves set there.
ReplyDeleteArcherfile ( 10.25), I have just looked at the Acknowledgements in the Ann Cleves book and she actually thanks a reader by name for having given her the courage to tackle the subject!
ReplyDeleteRe "The Help",Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteIt just shows how different we all are.
The book was chosen for our Reading Group and every one of us enjoyed it.
When the film was shown at our local Cinema the 12 of us went en mass to see it.
Again we all thought it was excellent .
However after seeing " Les Miserables " on stage several times in different Countries and loving every one of them I went to see the film and was so disappointed.
How Anne Hathaway got an Oscar for her performance beats me.
Well Lanjan it's like the Nobel prizes for peace and literature.if it's a slow year it becomes the best of a bad bunch.
DeleteGary thanks for the invitation..that's really kind. Unfortunately S will be in quarantine for 2 weeks. She can't leave the house at all even to go to the supermarket. They can send someone to check if you're at home and if not they can stick you with a fine of up to £1,000.
ReplyDeleteBet they will be having a fab time together!
DeleteArcherphile at 10.25am. Although I am a lover of Stephen Booth, I am a total addict and an avid devotee of Ann Cleeve.
ReplyDeleteI have read all the Vera books. I still have the last Shetland one to read, plus the new Devon one. These are both on a bookshelf, (in my study), ready to be read, along with a lot of jigsaws, to be done.
I am already nearly half way through the Devon one! Will check out Stephen Booth next!
DeleteI am a lover of detective novels, where I learn about the main character, their normal lives,families + loves and how they combine these together.
DeleteAs such, I have been reading the book series by, Peter Robinson (Alan Banks) and another of my favourites, is by Peter James. The latter is the Roy Grace series of books - which is almost, but not quite, on a parr to Anne Cleeves. Again, I have the entire series of books, and I just enjoy these.
These are not to every-ones taste, which I acknowlege, but some might enjoy them.
I have never read Stephen Booth but will certainly check him out. I always enjoyed Shetland on the telly. My favourite was P.D. James. She put so much research into her boo is that there was always a good 2 or 3 years between them. Elizabeth George was another favourite although I was really disappointed in the tv series. The characters were nothing like how they were described in the book.
DeleteI also am an fan of Elizabeth George - the books only.
DeleteI never watch a TV series of this type of book. The characters + S/Ls are always changed dramatically.
I prefer my own imagination, as I do in TA.
Thank you ,Archerphile for recommending the razor comb.
ReplyDeleteI bought the one I think you must have bought with a dial and used it this afternoon to cut Mr LJ's hair.
I reckon I made a good job of it and he seems satisfied.
It cost about half it would have cost had he gone to his regular barber and the razor comb is there for next time.
I didn't get a tip though.
I am very relieved to hear it worked well Lanjan. I was quite worried that Mr LJ would sue me for ruining his hair if it hadn’t done a decent job! 😉
DeleteI have at long last managed to get some replacement old fashioned razor blades for my little comb gadget that I have used for years. So I shall go back to using that now.
I am managing to keep the sides and back of my hair fairly neat but haven’t dared to try to layer the top, so it is getting very long and going flat on top which I hate. Being short and..um...curvy, I need height on top of my head to make me look taller!
Miriam, I think we have very similar taste in books.
ReplyDeleteI too have every one if Peter Robinson’s Chérif Inspector Banks books and it’s been very interesting ‘watching’ him climb up through the ranks of the police force and learn all about his family life and different romances along the way. And, of course, the descriptions of the Dales and Yorkshire countryside are as captivating as Stephen Booths Peak District.
But I am getting a bit fed up with all the references to the music he listens too in the car and at home. Sometimes it reads like a record dealers catalogue! I think Peter Robinson overdoes that a bit, though the crime stories themselves are always interesting, though seem to have got more lurid over the years!
Hilary and Autumnleaves -
ReplyDeleteCan I suggest that if you want to try Stephen Booths Peak District series, that you start with the first one called “ Black Dog”, and then go on to read them in order of publication.
In the first book you are introduced to the young Detective Constable Ben Cooper and the books, in order, follow the life of this young officer as he matures and tackles more difficult cases and gets promoted through the ranks.
To read them higgledy piggledy, out of order might be confusing and loose some of the context.
(The second Book is called “Dancing with Virgins” and is not at all about what you might think!
Thank you, Archerfile, for the suggestion!
ReplyDelete✔✔✔
DeleteI'm reading "All Creatures Great and Small" and I love the descriptions of the Yorkshire Dales and the easy reading where nothing much happens.
ReplyDeleteSo am I, Basia (9.01)! I have more than one book on the go.
ReplyDeleteHilary, I used to watch the series every Sunday night 30 years ago. I'm now at his first outing with Helen but we know the rest. I have some V Woolf and a history of Europe but they are more challenging.
ReplyDeleteI have never seen the tv series. That was in the olden days before internet!! So the story is all new to me! An English friend here was having a clear out recently and gave me the whole set of books! I will see if the tv series is available on youtube.
DeleteThis friend also gave me Peter Robinson, PD James and Colin Dexter, none of whom I had actually read.
PD James is dated now, but they are wonderful reads. I still have some copies.
DeleteI only listened to this weeks TA this morning (my comment is on the other page).
ReplyDeleteI am Not getting too personal, but I was the same as Kate, at the same age. This lasted for 10 years. I also went through this, without "chemical" intervention. I am not sure I would do it that way again, though, as waking up in the night, to have to change nightwear as so wet, and a bedroom window was constantly open, even when it was -6C outside, with thick snow on the ground.
I have eaten HRT cake (only once) but I quite enjoyed it, as a one time only experience, but it was never repeated.
I am off to prepare my banana tea loaf, as the bananas are finally ripe enough to mash down to the right consitency (ie skins going dark).This will be cooked, at the same time as the cottage pie I prepared this morning, with TA, keeping me company.
I also love reading, easy going books, and I think this was why I mentioned "The Telephone Book Library" a while ago, as it is just that. I have some, I still have some I haven't read yet. One of these, is the Jane Eyre story, as told by Alice Fairfax.
ReplyDeleteI will get round to it, one day.
If you do Esscee, be prepared for quite a few differences in the books compared to the TV séries. I read the books first so was expecting Jimmy Perez to be tall, dark and olive skinned, due to his Spanish heritage and was not very happy with the actor chosen to pay the part. But I soon adapted and ended up almost thinking of the two genres being quite different series.
ReplyDeleteI loved the books, read them all and my favourite was Blue Lightening which is mostly set on Fair Isle where Perez grew up, and goes back to investigate a crime. But again, it is best to start with the first in the series to understand Perez’s back story.
I really enjoyed the Shetland tv series and loved the main actor. Have never read the books so had no idea that he should maybe be tall, dark and olive skinned.
ReplyDeleteHave just spent a very hot hour in the greenhouse trying to repot a large and very spiny cactus.
ReplyDeleteIn the end I had to wrap it in several layers of sponge washing up cloths and wear ovengloves and use a carving knife to persuade it to leave its old pot
Not doing that job again for a very long time!
🌵
This is why I didn't watch the Shetland series, as the portrayal of Jimmy Perez was so wrong!
ReplyDeleteThe books are brilliant, and I reccomend them, but start with the 1st and follow the series.
I had planned a day in the garden, but there has been a strong westerly wind all day, and cloudy and cool. As the saying goes:-
ReplyDeleteTomorrow is another day, and this is also my regular weekly shopping visit. The list is already written and will be strictly adhered to.
I am still erring on the side of caution, though.
My next book is - and no surprise- is the Stephen Book, Drowned Lives.
Stephen Booth, was what I meant..😀
DeleteI still haven't read the last Shetland book. I am keeping it, for a later date, as it is The End. 😭😭
DeleteAccording to Stephen Booth’s website and FB Page, “Drowned Lives” is a one-off story not featuring Cooper and Fry. He said he wanted a change and a challenge to write about a different set of characters.
DeleteI asked if that meant he had abandoned Cooper and Fry for good and his reply was “never say never”. I do hope he will write more about them as I particularly like the character of Ben Cooper, but you can’t blame him for wanting to branch out!
I picked this up in the supermarket, and thought it was the same series. I didn't look closely, due to the current situation, an impulse buy, which I am sure I will enjoy.
DeleteThank you Miriam. I will have to add them to my 'to read' list.
ReplyDeleteI am standing by my decision not to listen to the nightly TA episide.
ReplyDeleteInstead it is Ch5 with Bill Nighy on a train journey in Sri Lanka.
Ever on the alert to find a new writer in the detective genre, thank you, Archerphile & Miriam for references to Stephen Booth - just put Black Dog on my Kindle for future reading ! Had never heard of him before but he appears to have gained plaudits & been writing for years.
ReplyDeleteMay I, in turn, recommend Eli Griffiths whom, of course, some of you may already know? Ruth Galloway series. She's an archaeologist who becomes involved in police investigations (bones!)& the novels are set in East Anglia. Also strongly recommend her other series, Stephens & Mephisto, '50s Brighton, heroes being a police inspector &a magician who knew each other during WW2.
I did read one of those ‘bones in East Anglia books but didn’t finish it I’m afraid. I think I need to start again with the first in the series - I like to get in at the beginning of a series to get familiar with the life story of the main character and then follow them through the series.
DeleteI will find out which was the first Ruth Galloway and start again.
Like you, find it best to read detective series in chronological order. The mystery element is different every time, but the protagonist's personal life develops ( a not particularly cunning way of getting readers wanting more !)
DeleteElly Griffith's 1st Galloway novel is The Crossing Places (2009)
Also read a very intriguing standalone by her - The Stranger Diaries. The past, hauntings....
Many thanks Carolyn. I’ll order it straight away.
DeleteWill investigate Elly Griffith 's Ruth Galloway books. Like bones.
ReplyDeleteNew versions of Alan Bennetts Talking Heads.
ReplyDeleteBBC 1 9pm Tomorrow
A treat !
Mrs P - I'll have to check in on that as I enjoyed the originals so much.
DeleteWith Tamsin Grieg! Unable to watch but enjoy.
DeleteYes, logged this one ! Couple of friends over for a sunny garden get together today but think 9pm will be ok.
DeleteLoved the long ago Talking Heads, & unlike revivals of old comedies, such as Dad's Army, A.Bennett's writing stands the test of time, I suspect. An inspired idea for lockdown, & they have a fantastic cast lined up.
On our list.
DeleteMust be about 30 years ago now when I went to see Patricia Routledge in "Talking Heads"
ReplyDeleteI wasn't overwhelmed although I think the writing is very clever
However ,and I may have mentioned it before ,that I really loved Paula Wilcox doing her monologue in "Shirley Valentine "
A sunny garden, is only just happening for me. It has been warm but cloudy. What a difference has now dramatically changed.
ReplyDeleteClear blue skies, total sunshine and the temperature gauge is now going up, very quickly.
I will be back tomorrow, the same time and the same place - as I am a creature of habit, and I am getting more so. 😣
This was so true this morning - the normal weekly supermarket shop, at the same place + time (8.30am). It was so empty and a delight.
Until tomorrow - Enjoy your evening All, whether listening to TA or not.
PS. I have on order, a large pack of masks + one of gloves.
DeleteWhy? - I am still not conviced about the Covid figures being as shown. Realistically, I am just preparing myself, for a second spike.
I hope, that I am so very wrong, and that I have wasted my money. If so, I don't care...😀
I think you are wise, Miriam. Look at Germany today, with new lockdowns.
DeleteI agree! Better safe than sorry Miriam we have a good supply.
DeleteWhat has made my day today?
ReplyDeleteMy hairdresser has just rung me.
I have a hair appointment in just over two weeks time all being well.
Yay, Lanjan,! Isn't it lovely to be delighted by things we took for granted before lockdown?
DeleteLJ I am so envious...
DeleteMy problem is the stylist who does my hair, lives in N.Wales (and not just over the border), where things are still different.
DeleteI think I might have to try find somewhere else, when salons finally re-open.
Help! I have a huge glut of Blackcurrants which Mr A insists on picking daily.
ReplyDeleteApart from making endless jars of jam, what else can I do with them, bearing in mind I can’t use much sugar due to his diabetes.
Has anyone ever made Blackcurrant cordial, I’d appreciate some advice.
(I think the chalky soil in this area must be good for black currants. Before we bought our chicken & pig farm the previous owner used to grow blackcurrants for the Ribera company!)
« Ribena »
DeleteArcherphile “The Flower Pots” Inn & Brewery on the local news! Good luck to them & all others even though we will still be being very cautious for quite some time yet.
ReplyDeleteEat them as a dessert,Archerphile.
ReplyDeleteGive them away.
We have a lot of red currants but I much prefer black currants .
I think I have mentioned this before but I hate the thought of stewed fruit .
Having said that I have in the past made both crab apple jelly and apple jelly-lovely shade of pink- both of which are delicious with scones.
Freeze them and then add them to crumbles.
ReplyDeleteThank you ladies. Last winter I did chuck a handful of frozen black currants in my apple crumbles when we ran out of blackberries. I find them a bit too sharp to eat raw which means having to add a lot of unwelcome sugar but I might try Hermesetas powder instead. Or even put them in my jars when making yogurt.
ReplyDeleteBut I’d really like to try making some ‘Ribena’
Whitecurrant jelly on the menu in the next couple of days (redcurrant bush died, but same thing, just paler) Single pot of blackcurrant jam this year, to be savoured!
ReplyDeleteI've just googled - how to make black currant cordial.
ReplyDeleteLots of recipes.
I would make an enormous Summer Pudding. Possibly also blackcurrant gin.
ReplyDeleteGary, one for you to delete. Above, 01.50
ReplyDeleteYikes! Thanks Zoetrope...
DeleteI watched all of the original Talking Heads and loved them. I thought them very clever. It was especially pleasing when the scripts were included in A level English Literature.
ReplyDeleteI missed the first programme last night (we eat relatively late, about 8 pm) but intended to catch up this afternoon when it would be too hot in the garden, but caught most of the second episode.
Well as I had missed the first half-ish of the programme ,and listening to the monologue I thought I was misunderstanding the subject. But no it really about intended incest! To my mind BBC has plumbed the depths now. (Although the awful Andrew Davies added incest to the recent dramatisation of War and Peace it had been a taboo subject for 'entertainment.')
As a form tutor of teenage girls, I had to help deal with fallout of sexual abuse and in one case incest on three occasions and it is certainly (to my mind) not a subject for entertainment.
I am disappointed that Bennet chose this subject for his monologue.
Sorry for the rant but I feel very strongly about this and still being 'sheltered' can not let off steam so easily to my only usual contacts!
Rant away Cushion! I only read the synopsis of the Sarah Lancashire monologue and must say it did make my eyebrows shoot up. But then it got me thinking about all the revered ancient Greek tragedies & how commonplace incest was in all of them!
DeleteI was riveted by both monologues last night. The way Alan Bennett captures the voice of his characters & the way very talented actors give credence & depth to their roles make for superior drama.
DeleteYou object strongly to the 2nd piece, Spicy, & I'm sure it will provoke controversy. Not to give spoilers to those who want to catch up later, but I found the disturbing subject was tackled very sensitively, & from an angle not usually explored. A brave move from writer, performer & the BBC.
Not 'entertainment' of the safe & comfortable sort, but drama of quality, decidedly uncomfortable, in fact, & thought provoking.
Indeed re Greek plays. I 'had to' watch some, including comedies, when I was doing my degree about thirty years ago. You can imagine my reaction then, seeing the actors running around the stage wearing giant 'prosthetic thingies' !!😲😁
DeleteIt's just that I always think of my pupil who ended up seriously disturbed and who I fear is not with us any longer.
Hope you are having some of this heat and sunshine and not too many storms. I like storms to 'clear the air' as well but certainly do not like thunder. I put my hands over my ears as soon as I see the lightening and if at night hide my head under the duvet!
We are supposed to get some storms tomorrow Cushion - Ok for one will be most upset if we don't! We finally had some rain yesterday...
DeleteOnce again Carolyn you have voiced my opinion of last nights Sarah Lancashire monologue so eloquently.
DeleteVery sensitively dealt with I felt, and as you say uncomfortable. But the confusion within the character herself so brilliantly conveyed.
I do wonder why though Alan Bennett chose to air this subject now, as this is a newly written piece I understand.
Perhaps he felt that now at his advanced age he is free to dodge the bullets that are likely to be aimed at him.
Must see what the critics say about it.
Do agree about the confusion, Mrs P, in this character who has seen herself as 'An Ordinary Woman' - a spot on title !
DeleteIt becomes obvious that she's not going to get any effective help which is sad because the damage is great. In this case, curiously & no doubt unusually, as much damage, if not more, than that suffered by the victim. An interesting perspective.
Yes, indeed, wonder what the reception will be like ? As you say, Mr Bennett will take it in his stride.
As much damage if not more than the victim. In that case it was totally unrealistic. The perpetrators (father and brother) did their time, about 2 years if I recall correctly and returned to family home. My pupil, taken into Care, truanted, engraved diagrams on her body, arms and legs, with a pair of compasses during lessons. She ended up in a secure mental health unit at the age of 16.
DeleteThe mother deserves no sympathy. The son has probably been damaged for life.
I will not comment further.
Now to more pleasant subjects.
ReplyDeleteMistral - I was going to suggest Summer Puddings as well. I am not sure how the fructose (?) in the fruits affect diabetic people but although blackcurrants are sharpish in taste you could sweeten up the fruit 'stew' by making sure the raspberries and strawberries were really ripe I suppose?
I think cordial made with blackcurrants would need a lot of sugar.
My grandmother had about eight large blackcurrant bushes in a row in her back garden and my brother and two nearby cousins used to make 'camps' in between the bushes. Nan made quantities of jam from the currants and during the winter on cold days we would be given a drink of hot water with a tablespoon of blackcurrant jam melted in it. I don't suppose there was any Vitamin C left but it made us feel better!
My own blackcurrants are nowhere near ripe yet but once again I have millions of redcurrants ready to pick and do something with!. Loads of strawberries and raspberries still coming on too.
Weeny carrots and peas and finally got my beans planted out after Jon had used his Scouting skills and knotted and lashed a lovely solid bean row! The plants were quite big and needed delicate handling to avoid breakage but all but one survived.
That's about it. Awaiting for an appointment for two more blood tests (1 for GP and 1 for Consultant) Discovered yesterday that I had been taking the potassium tablets wrongly and in addition to the tablets twice a day and the banana once a day I should have been drinking coconut water! I really don't like coconut very much and the smell of coconut hair products makes me feel ill but if it means putting my body back into correct working order I'll hold my nose and follow instructions! 😊😊 Have a nice day!
An extremely rare day for me.
ReplyDeleteAwake and able to get out of bed at six am.
Yesterday I slept until 1.15pm.
So, I've tidied and cleaned one small area of the kitchen, fed and watered the animals, and have spent over half an hour digging my pit in the garden before the sun hits it.
I might find I need to return to bed by eleven.
Off to walk the dog now.
For decades my day started in the afternoon MrsP - a combination of work patterns & insomnia. I still find it odd to be awake in the morning. I don't know how people are supposed to make decisions before noon!
DeleteI don’t envy you having to drink coconut water Spicy and I wonder why you have been told to? Does coconut contain potassium too? How strange. I’m glad you are able to enjoy your garden again and get those beans planted.
ReplyDeleteI have always found black and red currants very tart ( and an awful chore to de-stalk and clean) but thanks to Mrs P’s suggestion will google the cordial recipes - should have though of that myself.
But I adore white currents which have a delicious grape-like flavour and are much sweeter than the other two. I just eat them raw, no need to cook, but our bush is not very prolific, sadly. We are going to have a huge crop of gooseberries too, in a few days time. I have no problem using them, they are one of my favourite fruits and as we have a bush of red , as well as green, they make very pretty pink deserts.
I have never tried white currants. One to add to my list of 'to do.'
DeleteI suppose coconut water does contain potassium. It definitely is something to do with lack of something or other to be fixed by extra potassium!
I have just one gooseberry bush but it hasn't ever been very fruitful, some years with none at all but have just seen an email from a supplier advertising three various bushes for £15.98 so might treat myself when my first tranche of exam non-marking money comes through. (Most of it earmarked for 4 new fence panels to replace rotting ones which keep blowing down!)
My redcurrants I usually make into jelly. I used it when I did the crickets teas and baked Swiss Tarts. Otherwise all soft fruit went into the freezer for stewed fruit for crumbles, pies etc or jam when there is enough.
So this afternoon after planting various odd containers up with Cornflower seedlings I will sit as long as I can (in the shade of course) with my Factor 50 on and pick and destalk the redcurrants. BTW both bushes are over 25 years old as they were cuttings from my Dad's bushes and he died 23 years ago!
From blackcurrant recipes to prosthetic "thingies" via incest. This blog is nothing if not varied!!! 😄
ReplyDelete🤣😆🤣 Whoops!
DeleteI do speak my mind! Comes with trying to be honest, with no embarrassment or chance of being misunderstood, when answering all sorts of questions from teenage pupils!
If only everyone was of the same mindset Cushion!
Delete*** THESE ARE A FEW OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ***
ReplyDeleteMiriam, time to get typing - enjoy!
We have just received a rosemary plant from my sister-in-law which she grew from a small cutting she took from the floral centrepiece at our wedding breakfast! How delightful and thoughtful is that?
ReplyDeleteHow lovely Gary, as you say very thoughtful, and how wonderful to have the capacity to think ahead in that way.
ReplyDeleteI have flowers, I've forgotten what they are called, but we have discussed them on here in the past, given to me by my 96 year old cousin, which are direct descendants of our grandmothers plants.
Very special like Spiceys redcurrent bushes.
My younger sister suffered from eczema as a child and was recommended to drink goat's milk. We used to get it at a nearby convent where the nuns kept goats. I think my sister would have gladly put up with her condition to avoid drinking the milk. It had a really wild smell😝😝although I love pecorino cheese.
ReplyDeleteAs for incest you don't have to look so far back as the Greeks...royal families, popes (Borgias come to mind) and any remote village which had to make do with marrying cousins..they were all at it.
I've just been listening to "in the summertime" by Mungo Jerry. It's 50 years old now..can you believe it? ..it just makes me so happy to listen to it especially after another entire morning stuck on the computer.😡😡😡😡
ReplyDeleteI hope you are all having the same beautiful weather that We are having here in Italy..after a cold and rainy spring
IT'S SUMMER🎉🎉🎉🎉🌞🌞🌞
I WANT TO BE IN ITALY! I've actually had at least two dreams in the past week where I have been on holiday - I'm assuming that it's my brain's way of looking after me!
DeleteRosemary for remembrance, that's nice Gary.
ReplyDeleteSpicycushion, you need a trip to the Philippines where according to my son coconut water drunk from a coconut straight from the tree is wonderful. They drop down and float along in the sea so you can paddle out and get them, easier than climbing the trees.
Actually I do remember drinking that as a child when someone won a coconut at a Coconut Shy when visiting a fairground. Perhaps it wouldn't be so bad after all!
DeleteWow just stepped outside like a sauna - not for me but for those who can take it enjoy 😉
ReplyDeleteMr R advised not to do so anyway because of skin particularly on his head already been treated.
Spicy & Mrs P too I believe 🤔
Far too muggy for me your Ladyship!
DeleteIncest has a long socio-cultural, religious and moral history that certainly needs both addressing and analysing to enable us to understand how and why it is still an aspect of our societies.
ReplyDeleteA. Bennett has picked up on an issue that affects many people and can have devastating psychological and physical consequences for the victim. Knee jerk, Mary Whitehouse reactions (we must not mention the unmentionable) do not enable us to understand how and why such sexual actions are extremely disempowering for some and empowering for others.
Of course incest has been portrayed in art and literature but not in relation to how we respond those who actually do it and those on the receiving end.
Well done Arnold.
What a boiling hot day!! Too hot for me but I’m not complaining. Did some gentle food prep this morning, various salads, then had to have a shower!!!
ReplyDeleteRest of day spent lounging on swing seat sewing. A friend came for a social distance catch up and a cold non alchy lager at lunchtime. All in all a very pleasant day.
It seems I have been drawn out of the mortar.
ReplyDeleteI will post my choices in the morning.
I need to excercise my thumbs ready for the typing and also ensure my 'phone is fully charged.
I cannot use my PC and the keyboard, which I so prefer. I can access this blog, but I cannot post under my pseudonymn, as my identity shows as my normal e-mail address. I just can't seem to change it.
Tomorrow it will be, but my choices are very ordinary + simple.
I agree with you Spicy .8:25am.
ReplyDeleteI didn't listen and I am glad that I.didn't.
How is that sort of thing entertainment?
When I was very young teacher I had an incest situation involving a girl in my class .
There was not the Support in those days that there is now so I was left on my own to do the best that I could.
Lanjan, Talking Heads always has a dark side, A Bennett doesn't do light hearted entertainment, though there's wit & humour along the way with many of them. He exposes a group of mainly self deluded individuals for our scrutiny, as we peer vicariously into their inner world
DeleteNot to everyone's taste, but thought provoking nonethe less, &, under all the brilliant characterisations, often very sad - as both last night's offerings were in different ways.
I think I have done it. I am using my main PC after resetting and re-syncing the email account I use here.
ReplyDeleteThis is a test, so if it comes up with a different name, it will be deleted.
🤞🤞It has worked, but I have no idea how I have done it.
DeleteIf anyone sees a different identity, please let me know.
I am now going to exercise all my fingers, reading for my typing tomorrow morning. This is certainly not up to the standard now of:-
DeleteThe quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog - which I could do, but only when looking at the keys. 😂
Miriam. Does this now mean we are getting your list tonight?
ReplyDeleteNo. I am far too hot and bothered. Besides my choices are very low key.
DeleteWe have booked an ACTUAL holiday! Off to our beloved Tinkerbelle in the Cairngorms in July! I am such a happy boy - having a few bottles of lager to celebrate... 🎉🎆🎉🎆🎉🎆🎉
ReplyDeleteBrilliant. Something so lovely to look forward to.
DeleteI bet the celebrations don't stop at lager..
The old saying "a change is as good as a rest" has never rung so true as much as it does these days!
DeleteIt takes one to know one..as the saying goes.
DeleteSo pleased for you both.
P Tb Y 3:30 pm ,oh I am complaining (re weather )
ReplyDeleteThe patio door and windows are open and the fan is on but it is far to hot to sit outside .
Lanjan, I too am sat in front of the fan. And, as they say in Glasgow - "taps aff!"...
DeleteWe just booked last night for 2 weeks in Croatia..it's only 6 hours drive away but the beaches and the sea are crystal clear. I need to get away too. My house is no longer my home since I started teaching on line ...it's triple the work.
DeleteIt is lovely in the shade, apart from my noisy neighbours. I have no problem with every-one meeting up again, with friends + family, in gardens and enjoying themselves. After all, we all need this now, more than ever.
DeleteMy objection is to the very, very loud music being played, so all are needing to now shout over it...getting even louder as the booze flows more freely.
Miriam I'm looking forward to your choices
Delete🤞🏼 THAT move is getting ever nearer Miriam. Any idea who your new neighbours will be?
DeleteAutumnleaves, I have only been to Croatia once, but it was a brilliant trip.
ReplyDeleteIt started in Trojir, where I boarded a magnificent, 3-masted yatch, all wood + brass and only 26 guests. We sailed around for a week (all meals + drinks included) seeing some wonderful places, putting down anchor when at sea, so that those who wanted to, could swim. The nightly moorings were great, as could wander off safely, into lovely towns + villages, on different islands or the mainland.
I remember it so well, as it was also the week of Helen's trial + the verdict.
I was not alone celebrating the outcome at breakfast, the day after..yet none had mentioned TA before then.
PS It was total luxury, with wonderful deck loungers, a hot tub and 5 star service.
DeleteCostly, but worth it. I got what I paid for.
Miriam, so you combined "pleasure" with pleasure.
DeletePS Stasia - Alan Bennett - Talking Heads
ReplyDeleteI love Miriam there isn't anything she hadn't done or seen💕💕
DeleteOMG. There is a lot that I haven't seen or done. I only post, as to my own personal experiences.
DeleteI have family in OZ, with a 1yr old grand nephew that I have not met yet, along with the 6month old grand niece in Herts, as we cannot still meet up...
DeleteIt is hard.
...plus a grand nephew in Suffolk, now 10 months old, who I also haven't met yet...Plans went awol in Feb/March, and so could not take place. At least they are safe + healthy, that is the most important aspect.
DeleteI can't wait .we go to Istria which used to be part of Italy before the communists got their hand on it. It's simple ,we go down to the beach (which are pebbles not sand) at 7 in the morning for a swim..it's absolutely blissful. I can't friggin wait. This year has been no less than a nightmare.
ReplyDeleteSorry, heat lovers, this is too much for me, it’s the humidity that really makes things uncomfortable.
ReplyDeleteBTY- has anyone else found that the view of these blogs has increased in size? The font is much larger and each post takes up more space on the page, requiring even more scrolling down. Not sure if it’s due to Google or my iPad but I can’t get it back down to the normal size.
Hi Archerphile, no changes on my iPad, not sure what needs to be done, sorry 😟
DeleteWe went into a shop today for the first time since 17th March.
ReplyDeleteIt was a small Tesco and when I told the Shop Assistant that it was the first time I had shopped for over 3months she sympathised and was amazed when I said that were it not for the sadness and worry about the virus and the fact that I haven't been able to meet close members of my family I would have had a perfectly enjoyable period.
However it must be terrible for people who live in crowded high rise flats in the middle of large towns and cities and I really do sympathise with them.
Archerphile in settings under Display & Brightness on the right hand side is Text Size also Bold once tapped a slide bar appears maybe that will help...🤔
ReplyDeleteYes I agree re weather as posted earlier for both of us it is appalling hot and sticky!
Gary, glad you've arranged your annual ( or bi-annual ?) trip to the Cairngorms - what a tonic that will be !
ReplyDeleteDon't forget Gary as Mrs Slcombe once said "it can quite chilly up th cairngorms"😁😁😁
Delete