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Life outside Ambridge
Life outside Ambridge
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Life in Ambridge
THIS POST IS CLOSED "longer off topic comments" - Episode 14 Life Outside Ambridge Have a seat and let's chat.
*** FROM PREVIOUS BLOG ***
ReplyDeleteArcherphile - January 22, 2021 at 1:02 PM
Yes please Gary for the first memories, if I can remember one!
And Lan Jan, I have a collection of Robert Goddard books and Pale Battalions is my favourite too.
My copy has a photo of the Theipval Memorial on it and not long after reading the book we went to visit the Memorial.
We were on a short visit to northern France to find the locations where Mr A’s father had fought in WW1 (and survived). That memorial is an amazing piece of Lutyen’s architecture and reading the thousands of names recorded on it one of my most moving experiences.
Anneveggie - January 22, 2021 at 1:27 PM
If I can remember any! first memories could be fun. Please add me in.
Sarnia - January 22, 2021 at 2:09 PM
You and me both, OWiaS, 10-2 shift, although I sometimes manage to get back to 8.30 - 12.30. Trouble is, by myself in the house and never any visitors there are no obstacles to complete self-indulgence!
Brain -teaser for you: my 'place of work' has the Wessex Synod Office outside the back door.
OldWomanInAShoe - January 22, 2021 at 3:16 PM
No brainteaser, Sarnia, you gave us clues when we were still on the BBC blog.
MaryEllen did most of the solving then. And I was slow to remember that I knew Alma and Gordon.
I do have friends who might know you. What links do you have with the neighbouring churches?
MrsP Ambridge - January 22, 2021 at 2:50 PM
4.45 am last time I looked at clock last night , but awake and up by 11.30 so a decent length of daylight today.
*** A FEW OF MY FAVOURITE THINGS ***
ReplyDeleteCheshire Cheese - January 22, 2021 at 11:49 AM
Five favourite things in my garden:
The pond. It attracts more wildlife in the form of insects, amphibians and birds.
The compost heap. I never cease to be amazed by the lovely black compost that emerges after throwing in garden waste and shredded paper. There is the extra advantage that no one is going to decipher our personal details from compost.
The herb beds. I just LOVE growing herbs.
The veg beds. I don't grow a lot of vegetables but like to have fresh salad and radishes throughout the summer. I also enjoy things like courgettes, broad beans and French beans when they are smaller and tastier.
The potting shed. Many a happy hour has been spent in there, never more so than during this pandemic.
My dislike, not strictly in my garden but encroaches on it, is next door's massive leylandii hedge.
That sounds a pure delight.
DeleteThanks CC!
DeleteOur pond has yet to acquire any living things - I think the fact there are so many cats on patrol in our garden that nothing stands a chance. We grow rosemary at the moment in the garden and nothing beats announcing to yourself that you're just going into the garden to get some herbs!
Mr GG built a large compost bin last summer and already the compost is starting to look fantastic. We used to have one of those big Dalek type ones but much prefer the one we have now.
Ah, yes, I'd forgotten about you knowing them. If your friends have visited I'm fairly visible of a Sunday as you might imagine, but I have no personal links I'm afraid; I'm a 'furriner', ie I live on the East Side of the river, where there be dragons if 'ee be native to the city. Her Reverence does, though.
ReplyDeleteOMiaS used to live in Thorold Road. Then we moved to Peartree. Our friends live somewhere between the two. All east of the river. But I don't recall seeing any dragons (unless you count my two Pelham Puppets and the ceramic one someone made for us).
DeleteI’m going to say Salisbury Cathedral. The river is the Avon and there are at least 2 pubs with references to dragons.
DeleteWay out! Sorry Soz.
Delete'Here be dragons' used to appear on old maps to indicate unexplored - and probably dangerous - areas.
I’m now trying to think of any unexplored, dangerous places in Southampton. Any closer?
DeleteMuch closer!
DeleteAccording to Sarnia there are 'Danger of Dragon' alerts in place everywhere east of the river ; )
"My Earliest Memory"
ReplyDeletePut me into the mortar please 😷
Mistral has suggested that we move onto a list (or just one - it's up to you) of earliest memories. I think it's a great idea!
ReplyDeletePlease feel free to put your name down below to join in & they shall be pulled out of the mortar in time honoured tradition....
I have jusy chucked myself in, head first.
DeleteI will do a few, but no more than 5, which has to be the maximum number.
Will this be allowed??
I just have some memories, all from the same time, as a very young little girl.
DeleteWell surely if one is to be pedantic,there can only be one earliest memory!
ReplyDeleteTrue : )
DeleteBut there can always be earliest memorIES.
Just as there can be n most pedantic maths teachers, where n>1 : )
Got a point there Lanjan.
DeleteI have had a really awful day so far so apologies if I am being nowty.
ReplyDeleteWhy do we have to have any list ?
Why not do as we usually do and just write down our earliest memory as and when we think of it.?
Perhaps GG should have the final decision, as he is the amazing administrator here after all. 👏👏👍👋
DeleteThere are several differing thoughts, which should be considered and taken on board, as to what is fun and could be very interesting, to so many regulars here.
Oh Lanjan, I hope your day starts to pick up. 🤗🤗🤗
Delete'Nowty' - good word, I shall have to remember it. (Not that you'd ever use it to desribe me - I'm always a little ray of sunshine. Honest!)
Why not pick your favourite early memory Miriam if you can't remember the actual earliest .
ReplyDeleteIt would be interesting to know the age when our earliest memory occurs .
I know my earliest!
DeleteWhat have I acheived today?
ReplyDeleteFirstly, ironing my bedding-
duvet cover, pillowcases, flat sheet, then crisp poly-cotton shirts (some with embroidery on) plus jumpers.
Secondly, not a lot! I have sorted meals into containers, ready to go into the freezer, for future use.
And Finally, if I may. I have loved just watching the Live Feeds, from my favourite Zoo, seeing somewhere, with animals, I know so very well.
Ooh, Thorold Road is just up the hill from me and was on our school route (via Dimond Hill) when the children were small. We've been here since 1971, so there must have been some overlap. During the 90s I sometimes deputised for Phil when he was organist at Peartree.
ReplyDeleteChurch-wise, before lockdown we were enjoying regular pulpit exchanges with the local Catholics, and I get on famously with Fr Vincent, who is also from Guernsey. The Anglicans just down the road are a 'Forward in Faith' Church, and we have a lady minister at present.
Small world!
DeleteWe were at Bitterne Parish Church. Our friend lead the choir there in the 90s, hence the possibility that you might know him.
I feel for you, LanJan. I had a rubbish day yesterday and spent most of it asleep.
ReplyDeleteMrs P yes it has been traditionally used as a natural insecticide. Rubbing the leaves on arms is supposed to keep biting insects at bay. I find the smell almost too strong, but I guess the insects do too. My daughter slips it into her cooking but I soon know if she has used too much! I prefer the milder taste of real oregano and marjoram.
ReplyDeleteGary yes please put me in the hat.
DeleteI have had a really awful day so far so apologies if I am being nowty.
ReplyDeleteWhy do we have to have any list ?
Why not do as we usually do and just write down our earliest memory as and when we think of it.?
We don't HAVE to have a list - but if someone wants to, then surely they can?
Delete(Lanjan, if it helps with your nowtiness to have a medicinal wee dram you have my full permission to put your feet up and pour yourself an Arran malt...)
Well there you go Miriam.4:18 pm.
DeleteLet us hear what it is.
I don't expect Gary will mind if we don't put our names into a hat and just say what our earliest memory is when we think of it.
The reasoning behind putting the names in the hat is twofold Lanjan - firstly so that everyone can have their moment in the sun as it were, and secondly I was planning on changing the heading of the blog each day or so to reflect peoples choices. I think it works best that way. xx
DeleteI'll go in the hat then, if only to see what headings you manage to find for my spectacularly unexciting memories!
DeleteIf there's going to be a hat I'll go in it.
ReplyDeleteOWiaS 5.36pm Ah, I was on the organ rota at Bitterne Parish in the 90s. If your friend has a Greek surname I'm afraid we weren't exactly of one mind so I doubt he'd want to be reminded of me.
ReplyDeleteAh. Draco dormiens nunquam titillandus
DeleteThere's more than one personal dragon on that church list to have given me a bumpy ride in the past so I'm grateful for the information. Still, these days with an MA in Music and the Congregation under my belt, they might feel a little less - superior.
DeleteMy 98 yr old cousin lived in Bitterne for many decades.
ReplyDeleteDon't think she was a churchgoer though.
Yes please Gary. In the hat.
As to earliest memory, I have several, but since they are very early, I can't see how one can know which of them was the first. Unless you have photographic evidence dating the event, memory, to the photograph.
I have one of these, with photographic evidence, other memories that I can recall may have been even earlier, but I can't be sure.
I actually wrote last week about an early memory in response to something somebody had written, but then lost it and didn't repeat by trying again.
My earliest memory, is just that, etched in my mind, as to the date in a specific year.
DeleteThis cannot be changed. I might have just said too much 😣😢.
I’d like to say how much I enjoyed CC’s list of Favourite Things - even though it is miles back up the page. (I can’t keep up with all these posts every day!)
ReplyDeleteI particularly agree with you about a pond. Ours is fairly small and has an ancient weeping birch next to it. We have a bench under the tree, right next to the pond and have spent hours sitting there, watching the fish, over the years. The funny thing is, I find I can’t help constantly counting the fish, to make sure they are all there! And the frogs. And we love seeing dragonflies in summer.
Lanjan and Archerfile, so pleased you both like Robert Goddard and I will certainly read more of his books. Have you read the Susan Howatch Starbridge novels? I really enjoyed them especially the links between the characters. They trace the history of the high clergy during C20th and Starbridge is so obviously Salisbury! I loved one of the clergy who every time he went out for enjoyment said he was pussyfooting! I love pussyfooting myself!
ReplyDeleteGary, please add me to early memory list!
ReplyDelete10/10 for your favourite things Cheshire Cheese .
ReplyDeleteI think compost heaps are magic.
How can worms and rotting vegetables with waste paper ,manure and comfrey leaves produce such sweet smelling soil?
Please put me into the hat Gary for early memories.
ReplyDeleteI will be having a large glass either of Laphroid or Jura this evening.
A famous Scotsman once said
"If a man knew the exact amount of whisky he should drink each night he would live for ever."
Gary I’d like to go in the memory hat ( sounds like a prop from Harry Potter,something between the sorting hat and a pensive)
ReplyDeleteMe too please GG
ReplyDeleteMe too please Gary. I too enjoyed Cheshire Cheese's choices.
DeleteCheshire Cheese I love your favourite things especially the compost heap and the potting shed. Your garden sounds like a peaceful haven for you.
ReplyDeleteI would like a potting shed to potter in. I live on a farm and there are plenty of buildings in various states of repair that might be suitable but as soon as I suggest one, it becomes a precious space for farm machinery or a store for things that might be useful - one day!
Oh dear Soz, you need to put your foot down, sounds like a put down to me ,Your contribution is just as valuable.I'm not an ardent feminist, but.....
ReplyDeleteFrom my experience, Farmers are just as good as any one else for keeping Junk as can be seen when going round farm sales.
What kind of Farm is yours stock or arable ? it would be interesting to here.
It’s a dairy farm, mainly British friesian crosses. It is a closed herd (all our cows are bred on the farm, for those who might not know) and we used to have a bull but it’s all AI now. We are very eco friendly and don’t rely on chemical fertiliser - we use our own homemade variety! The cows stay out on the grass for as long as poss until the ground is too wet for them - much like David and Ruth’s cows. In the winter they’re bedded down on straw which then goes on the muck heap and recycled.
DeleteI like cows, they are amiable beasts as you well know.
Thank you Soz.
DeleteI bought my first cow in my early 50'.s when I took early retirement, wished I'd bought one sooner. My first cow had been parlour milked, I had never hand miked before, we did have a bit of a struggle to begin with,, but got there in the end.I found hand milking so satisfying and relaxing (well most of the time )
I just hope that Emerald goes on for ever as I shall be lost without her, though like me she is retired.
I’ve never handmilked would like to try it. My husband’s father used to hand milk in the fields but I’m told it makes your hands ache.
DeleteThere was one cow called Sussex( very unimaginative- it was her breed) she should have gone to market but there was something about her I liked and I wouldn’t let her go. She died last year, 23 years old. She had her own, rather large, horse blanket in red. The vets always commented on how easy it was to inspect her for tb as she was so friendly. I miss her though I did keep one of her daughters Jess; so called because it must have been an immaculate conception!!! My husband was determined that she wouldn’t have any more calves cos by that time there was quite a tribe of her offspring - the protected pets.
I wish Emerald a long healthy retirement.
When I started milking it was excruciating, so much so the GP thought I had carpel tunnel syndrome, however when I recommenced milking after her dry period I had no more problems.
DeleteEmerald was a self sucker, I tried many things nose ring tied her up as tight as I could in her stall she still managed. In the end I bought a Bra from America, used to support cows with large udders prior to giving birth, it worked a treat.
Being a Kerry she is of course Emerald Isle, all my cows had Irish names once I discovered an Irish name list on the web. Apparently a common name for them in days gone by was Emerald Blackshines due to the sheen of their coats, so she is well and truly named. still a youngster.
CC-belated thanks for your list, we now have a potting shed that Mr P created from the old chicken house using all sorts of bits & pieces, old windows etc. V homespun. Best way!
ReplyDeleteAlso 2 small ponds with a variable population of goldfish, frogs in the warmer months. Could sit there for hours watching them all... 🐠🐠🐸🐸
GG, add me to the hat please.
ReplyDeleteEv and others my Shanklin sister will be having her vaccination next Friday she will be 77yrs next month (going on 57yrs unlike me very elegant, very active and a great walker - living the dream for that on the IOW as Ev will testify. As her husband is 6yrs younger (again the opposite to me 🤣 and my lovely Mr R) brother in law will be a little later. My elder sister currently 79yrs and always on the go has not heard as yet - she is in Cambridgeshire. I also await my text but as the laid back youngest no more than I deserve 🤣
ReplyDeleteWhat have acheived today?
ReplyDeleteA lovely breakfast, with furry slippers on along with my cosy dressing gown, watching snow falling, knowing I did not have to go out. It was bliss.
Then put a wash on, now drying on an airer in a back bedroom.
Sorted a new jigsaw out, which has now been started.
Vacuumed upstairs - which so needed it 😁
That's all I have to say today, except there is a lovely sunset, red skies but ice forming.
Off to cook a R.Chicken dinner, just for one. This is easy when used to doing it. I buy a small chicken crown and this gives me 3 meals - in various ways.
I still love a traditional Roast on a Saturday. It just works for me and old habits, die hard, such as listening to the TA omnibus on a Sunday. I never miss it and always pick up, so more.
Enjoy your Evening, All 💖
A Roast on Saturday night? Easy to explain why, as I then wash-up and clean the cooker and kitchen, whilst listeng to TA omnibus, via Sounds with ear buds in.
DeleteIt just works for me.
Each to our own!
We had quite a lot of snow today Miriam, thankfully still managed a walk this afternoon.
DeleteI was thrilled to see some snow, as is it is such a rarity for me..
DeleteGary, so often I look and feel like that bird! Priceless!😉😊
ReplyDeleteI can so agree with you EV 😀 😉
DeleteIt’s snowing ❄️❄️⛄️ I still get a skip of excitement when I see the white stuff.
ReplyDeleteThe down side is the prospect of driving to work tomorrow....
Yes, it’s snowing here too, quite thickly. And a sure sign of lockdown is that at almost 10 am there is not a single tyre-track along the A30 outside my bedroom window! No cars, lorries or even a local farm tractor have disturbed the thick snow on the road!
ReplyDeleteIt’s quite beautiful.
Completing the Hampshire trio - snow spot on as predicted ⛄️⛄️ snowmen have arrived on the green outside our windows. Or maybe snow ladies must not be sexist 🤣
DeleteIt started snowing here about 10 minutes ago and is already settling.
ReplyDelete⛄⛄⛄
At least fewer people than normal will be struggling to get to school, work, etc. But let's hope the roads stay clear enough for those who do need to use them - particularly the emergency services.
Stay safe and warm everyone.
No snow here but a frost overnight!
ReplyDeleteVery slight sprinkling here this morning, much of which has already gone.
ReplyDeleteI’ve just watched Root dismissed - last ball of the day and on 186!
ReplyDeleteIt’s just started snowing here.
Where are you Mrs P , Lanjan and Sarnia ? Hope you’re warm and safe.
Our posts overlapped Sarnia.
DeleteTalk about coincidences!
ReplyDeleteI am just watching the recording of a programme on BBC4 last night - ‘Neil Diamond at the BBC ‘.
I have always loved his music and songs so it is real treat for me. I’m hoping he will sing my absolute favourite “Song Sung Blue”
At the same time time I am skimming through the Sunday Times and guess what?
Today is Neil Diamond’s 80th Birthday!
What a wonderful artist..my particular favourite is Love on the Rocks.
DeleteHappy Birthday Neil. Thanks for the wonderful music💖💖
Where does the time go?
DeleteI have to admit I had a bit of a crush❤
Neil “Sweet Caroline” Diamond 80 today 😱 how can this be!
DeleteI 'did a Miriam' this morning: dressing gown and fluffy socks and slippers by the cosy stove (gas, not log-burning as I'm allergic to the formaldehyde in wood-smoke). Porridge, copious quantity of coffee and yesterday's weekend paper with crossword and jigsawdoku. Brilliant idea, Miriam.
ReplyDeleteSounds wonderful Sarnia. Well done you! 👏🏻🤗
ReplyDeleteI'm afraid I didn't emerge from under the duvet until gone one o'clock and when I did and saw the snow turned the heating back on.
ReplyDeleteIt's melting fast and the roads look messy with slush. I've swept and cleared my stretch of pavement.
I feel rather cautious about driving Lady for her outing today, but guess that the main roads will be clear and will not ice over until the light drops.
Bright sunlight too today.
We are all so different aren't we.I cannot get up with out getting washed and dressed, I dont have a pair of slippers, just a pair of Birkenstock sandles for idoor use. I do have a dressing gown more like a coat that I use if I have to go out at night to see to the cow and another tucked away in the drawer for hospital use. I think it probably goes back to my father who insisted Slippers etc were for bedroom use only.
ReplyDeleteI too wear Birkenstocks in the morning and have two pairs of trainers for indoor use. I can't remember my last pair of slippers, and don't use a dressing gown. Like you CowGirl I like to be washed and dressed even if I don't go out. I still have my hiking pole by the door, hoping not to have to use it tomorrow.
DeleteOh Basia
DeleteI have worn nothing but Birkenstocks for the last 50 years I used to keep a "normal " pair of shoes i the car incase the children I was representing preferred me to wear them.
Ah, yes, but now I'm done with living by other people's rules and am in the process of working out some of my own!
ReplyDeleteSnow also for me.
ReplyDeleteAfter my "Miriam morning" coffee + breakfast, I went for a long bath. There were just a few flakes - 20mins later, after a long, luxurious soak, it was like a blizzard.
It is has been melting quickly in the last few hours, but still quite a lot around.
It was just lovely to see.
As others have said, no car tracks in the snow.
I hope it does disappear quickly, so that those wonderful and essential workers, can travel safely.
It must be a nightmare being front-line, but with with travel problems, it is an extra pressure.
I feel very ashamed of myself. When i was watching the snow fall, as I did not think about the key workers, having to go to their places of work.
DeleteThe pharmacy, that I was the manager of, was in N.Wales
I know the efforts which are needed, to get to a place of work in bad weather to provide a service. This is why I am disgusted with myself. 😣
Nothing to be ashamed of Miriam, all you were doing was enjoying nature, nothing wrong with that
DeleteIn bad snowy weather, I had an overnight bag in the boot of my car.
DeleteThis was in case I could not drive home, so I would then need to bunk down with a member of staff. Luckily, this never happened but it did come very close.
⭐️ all the same Miriam.
DeleteI've not owned a dressing gown for most of my life.
ReplyDeleteMy mother had many, all of which as far as I remember she had made herself and one which she had made from an army blanket.
About twenty years ago my daughter bought me a smart navy linen one and I do remember making a padded nylon number with the fabric bought from Jon Lewis in my teens.
When I get up, I don my bed top and a fluffy pullover top and a pair of light drawstring half length trousers. I stay in them until I've had my tea, fed and watered the animals and taken Lady for her morning wee outside. Then it's bathroom time.
But clothes since last February when I put myself in lockdown anticipating what was to come, clothes have been ' house clothes ' as above daily with the exception of my time in Cornwall and the three separate days I have gone to family in Bath plus hospital outpatient visits.
I have in recent years taken a light long and loose knitted wrapover coat into hospital, to keep me decent for the benefit of others.
From Scholls as a teenager and into my thirties I I migrated to Birkenstocks but for many years now it's been crocs, including my much loved Croc Boots.
Watching the snow fall is mesmerising even though in later years we know the consequences.
ReplyDeleteI know this is going to make you laugh, but I had to Google 'Birkenstocks' because I didn't know what they were.
ReplyDeleteSo did I Sarnia! They are expensive but I imagine they last forever! I like the look of the clogs and the sole looks very comfortable. Are yours clogs, Basia and Cowgirl? Am interested as I have difficult feet with a broken tendon in one and hammer toes so I don’t find it easy to get comfortable shoes.
DeleteMine are sandals and as indoor slippers only.
DeleteSummer and winter I always wore sandals, inside and out, in those days they were not fashionable as now. when I worked in Handsworth I was always referred to as the Sandal lady. Thes days I am not so hardy and wear shoes as well. I find the oiled leather adapt to my feet which are very wide as well as having bunions. It is the only footwear I wear, apart from hiking boots and wellingtons when with the stock or walking the dog
DeleteThank you, I will look into them!👞
DeleteI shall never forget the winter of 1962/63
ReplyDeleteI started my first job in September 62, as a Scientific Assistant at a research lab in Slough. Although only about 5 miles away as the crow flies, it was a long journey to get there.
A mile long walk to Iver station, train to Slough, long walk up to High Street to catch the 81 bus to the lab. Took about an hour and a half each way.
When the snows hit it was purgatory trying to get to and from work. Standing for ages waiting for a train on the snowy platform, then the buses often didn’t run so it was a long walk to the lab on icy, Snowed up pavements.
I shall never forget the terrible chilblains I had all up the backs of my legs from standing at bus stops for hours. And all over my hands too.The pain and awful itching!
Today’s snow - pouff!
After about 3 years of this tedious journey, I bought a little blue Mobylette moped with a 2-stroke engine to get to work. It took about 10 minuties door to door and the sense of freedom was wonderful! 🛵
DeleteGosh I remember that Winter too. I was 12 and out helping my dad look for and dig sheep out of drifts, and oh the wonderful freedom of not having to go to school for weeks.
DeleteWhen I lived above Hebden Bridge when snow was about I had a three mile hike to pick up the car even my landrover wasnt able to cope, firstly 2 1/2 miles of track and then across the moor with my torch for light. It didnt need much snow to drift against the stone walls, filling the stiles, I just had to walk over the tops..I never missed a days work, might have got in late though.
DeleteI remember that winter too and the chilblains.
DeleteI try to forget my feet. I have lymphoedema in my legs particularly in my left side so I have had great difficulty finding shoes that fit. In summer, sandals are the answer. Birkenstock’s are ideal for me or hiking sandals with lots of Velcro.
ReplyDeleteI discovered Hotter sandals several years ago. Normally I'd never buy shoes without trying them on, but I've found I can't go wrong with Hotter so I buy them mail order.
ReplyDeleteIn winter I wear boots. I got my current pair from John Lewis two or three years ago. When I first tried them I thought I'd never get them on - or off. But I think they're the most comfortable pair I've ever worn. And the zip only goes to halfway up the calf so it doesn't keep catching on my skirt hem.
When the small shoedwellers were little it was a two mile round trip to school and I used to wear down the heels like nobody's business. Now they last rather longer. They need doing again now, though, and when I last sent OMiaS to the cobblers they were shut. Haven't yet tried again to find out if they class as an essential shop.
Indoors I wear slippers if I currently have a pair that haven't got lost or pinched by a shoedweller. Otherwise it's bare foot or socks if it's cold. (Yes, slobby and bad for the socks, I know - but no-one else in the shoe takes care of their socks, if you can't beat them, join them!)
Bare foot is nice outdoors too. But probably not in this weather ...
This evening I saw the clip on the local news about the thundersnow this morning. I was woken at what seemed to be an early hour by a loud, rumbling explosion. However, as I live under exactly throttling-back distance from the local airport, although it was an odd time and didn't sound quite right, I assumed it was an extra noisy aircraft coming in to land and went back to sleep.
ReplyDeleteI like Hotter too OWiAS and have several pairs. I lived in Dr. Scholls wooden clogs all through the sixties. Now Clarks but I always swore I'd never wear slippers. This year however I have worn some slippers which were gifts and I'd still never buy myself a pair.
ReplyDeleteSarnia, that thundersnow sounds exactly as my friend in Nailsworth heard it last week.
ReplyDeleteSo now there have been two of them.
I wish I had heard it !
I've been wearing Hotter shoes for the last twentfive years or so.
Ev, please may I say that I don't think you would find Birkenstocks at all suitable.
The lady I have cared for by exercising had hammer toes, worse on one foot than the other. So I know what they are only too well as I tried to rectify them until a podiatrist told me that it wasn't possible.
Having worn Bs myself for years, I must tell you that walking in them and keeping them on your feet is all down to the muscles in you toes.
I have strong feet, thanks to my father whose daily reminder to me was ' look after your feet, because they have got to look after you for the rest of your life '.
I was taught to daily exercise my feet in many different ways, but the most important exercise was to pick up a pencil with bare toes, release the pencil and repeat a dozen times every Morning and evening. I still do this, along with stretching my toes throughout the day. An extension of this was when young spending as much time as possible barefoot, ( I was a beatnik ! ) and always wearing footwear that exercised my feet. I've never owned a pair of high heels.
There is a high ridge across the wooden sole of Bs which is designed to sit under the gap between the sole of the foot and the toes.
So I don't think with your hammer toes you would be able to wear Bs.
Hope you don't mind me saying so.
Thank you for that,Mrs P. It could have been an expensive mistake. My toes are quite rigid and do not wiggle! Inherited from my mum but made worse by inadvisable shoes in younger days. I couldn’t dream of high heels now! Hotter are quite good but sometimes don’t have the depth I need. I have a couple of pairs of Reiker shoes which are quite light but will have to source a new pair of heavier shoes. The other complication is that I have to use risers because of the tendon and most shoes don’t have the depth at the back to grip the heels properly. The podiatrist has given me some recommends but it always entails sending for them! There is a shop in Newport which sells good shoes so can try them on but of course not possible under present circumstances! Have been advised not to go barefoot! As Mike used to say, old age is not for wimps!!😊
ReplyDeleteI envy people who can buy a pair of shoes and wear them happily without trying them on. When my left leg and foot first started to swell, I can remember leaving a shop because there was no shoe that would go on my left foot, let alone be comfortable. As you say Hotters are good but sometimes not deep enough. In winter I usually wear widefitting lace ups, not very fashionable but I’m not in pain! Sturdy sandals with Velcro straps behind and over the foot are good in summer. In the winter mud I trudge around in Muckboots.
DeleteMrs P I would add to your father’s advice, hands: a strong pair of hands make life easier in old age. A hairdresser once told me that his trade strengthened his hands - he was v good at sports like sailboarding where you need supple strength.
I agree Soz.
DeleteBut it is an area where I am failing miserably.
From a small child I had tremendous dexterity, able to do anything, juggle, plait, create. I became a switchboard operator in the days of dolls eye and toggles, loved it and used my dexterity to the utmost. Then throughout my middle years massage and craft work. Again hands used.
They are now severely arthritic and painful.
I have a very good hand therapist who has been prepared to give my hands so much attention, but I have not responded with the amount of effort that I need to give myself in the way of exercise. The hands themselves, and my arms are very strong, but I've lost my grip, and also sensitivity in my fingertips. I drop an awful lot of items now. The finger that I broke healed well and was not painful, but I am now experiencing pain in that one too.
I feel for you. I know it sounds odd but it wouldn’t be so bad if you hadn’t had such dexterity, then you wouldn’t know what you’re missing. Have you ever tried acupuncture for arthritic pain? I tried that for my lymphoedema; it didn’t work but I was told it was successful in treating arthritic joints.
DeleteWe only take a newspaper on Saturdays (Telegraph) and Sunday’s (Times)
ReplyDeleteOne of the first things I look at in the Telegraph is the Births Column. I love to see what names are being given to babies these days and there are some very surprising ones.
However I was delighted to read the following this weekend:
“a beautiful daughter, Catinka Eugenie Mia, sister to Cara and Cressida, delivered on the M4 by her father”!
One can only imagine the circumstances and what happened afterwards,
I can also imagine in a few years time when letters arrive addressed to Miss C "Surname" and each of the sisters thinks the letter is for her.
ReplyDeleteNever give your children names with the same initial letter or ,for boys the same initials as their father.
That happened with my husband and his brother, he was adamant that our children have different initials to their first names.
DeleteUnless you plan to send them to a school that requires initials embroidered on PE kit. It would have saved money if the kit could have been passed on. (I did once try unpicking the initial but the shop's stitching was too dense for me to make progress.)
DeleteTwo shoedwellers share a first initial - in the Christmas letter they are 'J' and 'j'. And my cousin shares her initial with her husband and both her sons.
My point in relating that announcement was about the poor mother giving birth on the M4 rather than anything to do with names!
DeleteAmen to that, LanJan. When I set about transferring all our utility bills to Direct Debit I found to my astonishment that the gas account was in my son's name at this address, even with his correct date of birth. Heaven only knows how or when it happened, but as they were both Mr D it had gone unnoticed until I wanted it changed to my name.
ReplyDeleteI'd been wondering why we kept getting letters addressed to Daniel about servicing his boiler as he's been living in Wales for all but 30 years and married for 25 of them!
How true Lan Jan. I am a twin my sister was J.E. and I was J.A. our medical records in our early years are all muddled and when we both banked at the same branch things did get confused, we did have some fun sorting it, we knew the problem they didnt !
ReplyDeleteWhen I started at university my tax repayment was slow to arrive. (Dad covenanted our grants to us so we could get the tax back.) On investigation, it was discovered that my details had been filed under my brother's name. OK, our middle initials match, but our first ones don't.
DeleteMy friend shares an initial with her brother, together with a very short surname. The bank just put one initial plus surname on her chequebook. She tried for ages to convince them to add 'Miss' to stop her brother (accidentally?) using her cheques.
DeleteSpeaking of which, years ago, my bank started issuing lefthanded chequebooks (the stub is on the right). For some time they sent one lefthanded and one righthanded but this apparently became too complicated for their poor little computer. Since then we have stuck to lefthanded and OMiaS has just had to live with it : )
That's why some people have first, middle, last name and a surname and use all the initials.
ReplyDeleteThat family should keep the car, I know of one other but don't think they did in the end.
MrsP, I tried your toe strengthening exercise. No problem with picking up a pencil off a soft surface but no use off a hard floor. There was a knee exercise you and Archerphile wrote about, what was it?
ReplyDeleteBasia
DeleteSit in a hard upright chair with bottom pushed to the back of the upright, both feet flat on the ground.
Lift one leg straight at the knee and make a 'fist' with the knee. That is contract the knee muscles. Hold for a count of five ( not a quick five ) replace foot on the ground. Repeat five times.
Repeat for other leg.
If you are doing this because you feel your knees are weak, stick to five seconds five times twice a day for a week.
Then up your game eventually aiming for a count of twenty, fifteen times, twice daily or more.
It is a very simple exercise, but it works.
The leg MUST be straight from top of thigh to ankle with toes UP.
The result of this exercise strengthens the muscles and ligaments that support the knee allowing it to do all its hard work.
As for the pencil pick up, yes from a hard surface not soft.
Good luck Basia.
Thank you MrsP. My hamstrings need exercising but I must be careful.
DeleteAs for the toes I cheated a bit with a thicker pen but will persevere.
For those of you who like Hotters shoes, they have a sale on at the moment on their online shop. I have just bought a pair of walking boots reduced £40 down from their normal price. I think the sale just until the end of this week.
ReplyDeleteIs just
DeleteWinters. I remember the 61/62 one, as our dog had puppies which couldn't go out, as the snow was so deep, they just disappeared.
ReplyDeleteThe other bad winter, which sticks in my mind, was in 1981. I, and many others, who lived nearby, walked miles to get to work (a suburb of Chester at that time). It was so cold, that the diesel in the buses froze and there was no trains either.
A niece was born in Nov. that year, and I couldn't get to Gloucestershire to see her - due to no trains. I didn't have a car at that time, as I didn't need one and had my 1st mortgage, so couldn't afford one.
I woke up to a white world this morning, due to more overnight snow. Even after a sunny day, it still has not melted completely. My back lawn still has snow on it but the front is green again.
That neice will be 40 in November this year.
DeleteHow time has flown by.
Mrs P, the thundersnow was 'Much ado about nothing' really - an extremely loud rumbling explosion, a bit like Concorde breaking the sound barrier, but with precious little snow to show for it!
ReplyDeleteI like Pavers for shoes. The local outlets, which were within easy reach, are sadly now no more.
ReplyDeleteI do know 2 other large stores - Liverpool 1, and the other, near to Chirk in N.Wales.
Both are, and have been, no-go areas for nearly a year.
I need to try shoes on before buying, as I wear differing sizes, due to where they were made. This is either a 36, 36.5 or 37 - continental size. I find sizes vary so much, due to country of origin. I tend to try and buy Italian made shoes or sandals, that is, if I can get them. Somehow, these fit me, the best.
PS. As you know I love slippers. I always bought a pair, in a village market, when on holiday in that wonderful country. Shopping was always - a lot of local veg. plus my new slippers.
It was a reminder of my hols. when I started wearing them in the winter.
Just a quick extra.
ReplyDeleteDesert Island Discs yesterday, with Tim Peake, was fascinating, in so very many different ways.
I recomend it.
Delighted to report (this is really for Lady R) that we got our appointments for vaccination this
ReplyDeleteafternoon. They are on Friday at 4pm at the Hampshire Court Hotel, just like Mr R.
Our friends who live at Lasham went there this morning and said how quick and efficient it was, no hanging around and even though they got there early they were taken in straight away.
Wonderful news. 👍
DeleteYay Archerphile 👏
DeleteLook forward to hearing of your experience. I see Local tv news reporting on Alton residents not having a hub in or around town as a 33mile round trip not easy for some! I have to say Mr R very impressed with HC Hotel venue. No queuing justsit in car until called which in his case was pretty quickly anyway. 🤞 I’ll be soon.
Re Hotter Shoes - I find their Extra Wide fitting is wider enough for my feet but often not deep enough, and often rub on the top of my toes, which are a bit bent.
ReplyDeleteI can recommend Widerfit Shoes (widerfitshores.co.uk) who make lovely styles (some very like Hotter) but in a much wider range of sizes, both width and depth. They have boots, casual and smart shoes, sandals, canvas shoes for summer and men’s styles too. They also have an excellent range with stretch fabric which looks like leather and gives to accommodate bunions, hammer toes etc. I, personally get a much better fit than with Hotter. They’ll send a very good catalogue with instructions on how to measure for their shoes.
Thank you, Archerfile. Will investigate!
DeleteDespite the snow and hard frosts - crocuses and snowdrops are now starting to flower. It certainly lifts the spirit 😁
ReplyDeleteOn my walk today saw the first bright yellow aconites.
ReplyDeleteA joy !
On my walk today saw the first bright yellow aconites.
ReplyDeleteA joy !
Me again, sorry, but I had to share this.
ReplyDeleteIt was to do with internet shopping. A person ordered Huggies Pull-ups, which were substituted with a Haggis.
At least it is Burns Night, but this was certainly not appreciated.
I bet Jazzer won't be heard playing his bagpipes tonight 😣
😂🤔😂😂😂
DeleteThat takes some beating!
DeleteQuestion is, was it down to an errant spell checker or a picker with a sense of humour?
As for Jazzer, couldn't he have stood on the green and seranaded Ambridge?
My aconites are nowhere to be seen!
ReplyDeleteThey will come.
DeleteI saw them in a garden just up the road from your sister I L.
Must be a protected garden.
My pot of aliums is showing signs of life. I've wanted aliums for years, and these are for the courtyard garden. The landscape gardener starts work on Wednesday. I expect he'll begin with the fencing, which has been in its death throes since storm Christoph.
ReplyDeleteI almost forgot - I promised the next Underground installment:
ReplyDeleteLast week's answers
1. The monarch is not happy - King’s Cross
2. Make them more ecological - Turnham Green
3. Entertainment in a seat of learning - Oxford Circus
Make sure you keep a record of your score so far
(Please Mind The Gap)
The next three
4. Next stop from here – St Helena
5. Penny Lane
6. ‘Please look after this bear, thank you’
Have fun!
I didn't get a single one! And it turns out 2 of them were the most obvious answers ever! (Think I've got one of these though.....)
DeleteI didn’t get Turnham Green - good one but don’t know it. I could only come up with Green Park which only partly fits.
DeleteLike Gary, I’ve got one of these - bet you it’s the same one!
Thanks OWIAS. They’re good fun
As a Londoner I am ashamed to say I only got one, Kings Cross.
DeleteNot good at this sort of puzzle.
MrsP - it just goes to show your brain isn't warped like mine ; )
DeleteI'm sure I used the map when we came up with this originally. OMiaS will tell you he didn't, I can't remember whether that's true or not : )
In defence of my ability to know my city OwiaS, I was given a jigsaw puzzle of central London and was very pleased with my ability to do it in fifteen minutes without any reference to the picture.
DeleteAny one person on this blog wanting to know how to get from A to B then on to C and D within central London, could be given a walking map by me and not get lost.
( the above is not a challenge )
Bragging I agree, but I am proud of my knowledge of my home city.
Incidentally as a ten year old, my father coped with WW 1 by spending many days on the circle line. Down below, going round and round.
I have a similar puzzle. I used the picture : )
DeleteI'm sure your walking map would be brilliant. I'm sure I'd still manage to get lost!
OMiaS and one of the shoedwellers are walking the Pennine way at at rate of 3 or 4 days each summer (except when there's a pandemic on!) One year I got a phonecall from a strange number. Little shoedweller had gone on ahead and had tired of waiting OMiaS to catch up. Not having his own mobile at that stage, he borrowed on from some friendly fellow walkers so he could phone me. I phoned my ('expert map-reader' husband - he'd taken a wrong turning some way back. Fortunately, we got him back on track and the pair were reunited. The next year they both had phones - and mapreading was probably delegated to the younger walker!
Hoist by his own petard then !
DeleteLovely story.
I got 1 and 3 but for 2 could only come up with Green Park and Parsons Green. Have never heard of Turnham Green - it’s a good one!
ReplyDeleteSo Gary, did you celebrate Burns Night, last night?
ReplyDeleteThey didn’t bother in Ambridge (as I mentioned on the other blog). No piping in of the haggis or singing from Jazzer, more’s the pity.
Did you and Mr GG break out the whisky?
I have the haggis but could have sworn Burns night was on 29th! Oh well better late than never! Hope you did celebrate, Gary!😉😊
DeleteWe had a celebration of Burns on Sat night - we did a Zoom version of the TV show "Taskmaster" where everyone had been given Scottish themed tasks to do, including recreating a famous artwork using only Scottish products, update a Burns song and film a video to go with it and best (awful) Scottish costume. It was a brilliant "night out"! I have pretty much always celebrated Burns Night, MrGG not so much as he is Suffolk born & bred...
Delete(No whiskey was had I'm afraid - I had a thumping hangover, and a wee hair of the dog was NOT an option this time...)
ReplyDeleteLove quizzes
Love the London Underground.
Love your idea,Old Woman.
Thank you.
Well I don't know London but I have got no.6, bet it's the same one as Soz and Gary. I'll have to ask my daughter what the others are. She got all 3 right last week, but she did live in London briefly.
ReplyDeleteKeep trying for 4 and 5. Well done to your daughter - hope she enjoys this week's stations.
DeleteOwias, what I thought might have been No2 is now definitely No4.
ReplyDeleteNo6 - mine says please look after this pencil with an appropriate picture.
No5 - will have to give it some thought.
I'm now racking my brains to find a station that works for both 2 and 4.
DeleteI look forward to seeing your answers next week : )
I think I have no. 6, as do others, but will try for the others.
DeleteGot them all - whether right or not I’ll have to wait.
DeleteWe've now got no. 5, but are really puzzling over no 4. At the moment we are looking at a map with the island of St. Helena and wondering which island is the next stop on!
DeleteThe closest we can get for 4 is a station that has been closed for some time, unless you were using an old map. Hmmm!
DeleteI think all the stations are still open. Number 4 certainly is.
DeleteBut I'd be interested to hear which closed station you think could work, Janice.
Your St Helena map probably won't help much.
Sarnia - I love alliums too, and planted dozens and dozens of them last year in with all the daffodils and tulips. Everything is sprouting away merrily up here!
ReplyDelete(I have had a daffodil on the verge of blooming since the last week of November - I hope it makes it.)
Got 4 & 6 OWiAS, an idea for 5 but it seems too obvious.... further research needed.
ReplyDeleteThank you!
Got them all , old woman.
ReplyDeleteWell I admit I got no6 and my husband got 4 and 5!!!
We are doing them when we visit our bubble friend. It’s keeping us all entertained.
OWIAS.
ReplyDeleteThis is a briiiant idea of yours
As I have said before, I do not know London, but on seeing the answers, I did know some.
As for part 2, I know two I think, which are nos 5+6. It will be interesting to learn if I am correct, as I am using pure logic and general knowledge.
After my normal weekly shop trip this morning, I settled down and watched a film on TV (a thriller which was really good). I was in a lazy mood, which was not helped by the grey, rainy and glooming day.
ReplyDeleteWhat I noticed were the adverts designed for, senior citizens.
In one advert break, these were:- Funeral Plans, Cremation only plans, Life Insurance and Equity Release.
Not only did I not like these, but also, they could con many into signing up for something, that is not needed and could cost more than any benefit. These have so many hidden conditions and aren't as advertised.
I also do not like that persons such as, Carole Vorderman, Debbie McGee and Alan Titchmarsh, are promoting these schemes.
And now breathe - Rant Over!
Sorry All.
I'm with you there Miriam, whenever I watch past programmes on my IPad that were broadcast during the day originally, I am always infuriated particularly by the reclining armchairs and the stair lifts advertised, encouraging older people to rely on gadgets instead of exercising to keep their mobility.
DeleteIn my view these advertisements should carry health warnings, such as ' if you dont use it, you will lose it '.
They come through the letter box too.
DeleteI got one personally addressed to me (not quite surre how they got my address as I am generally very careful ) You can imagine my fury as it was adressing the fragility of old age. Not sure now who from, but a very strong letter went off to them from me, but of course they didnt have the courtesy to respond to me. Talk about insult.
Sometimes it is essential to have aids to mobility. Mike suffered with a lot of back pain which meant he just couldn’t walk far so his mobility scooter gave him a better quality of life. I agree you have to keep moving and do so myself but because of my feet I can no longer do five mile hikes! You do have to listen to your body! Agree though about these adverts aimed at the elderly. They are very depressing! The other day I had several leaflets about elderly living and funeral plans and I thought in the words of the song, is that all there is?
DeleteAm just hearing there is a move afoot to give contraceptives to grey squirrels in tempting food to reduce their numbers! Better maybe than culling them. Problem is apparently they strip the bark from young trees. What a pity they were ever introduced here. It is lovely to see the red ones here. The other day one was running up and down our fence taunting Dudley!
When I was in my late 30s I got sent a clothes catalogue 'for women in their prime'.
DeleteIt went straight in the recycling!
You are not Miss Jean Brodie then! Loved that book by Muriel Spark but could never get on with any others of hers. Maggie Smith was magnificent in the part as she always is!
DeleteP tbY 2:21pm.
ReplyDeleteI am disappointed in you.
We northerners do not need to rely on our husbands inn order to get the correct answers.
At least you do have a husband/partner with you.
DeleteSome aren't as lucky so don't have this companion to help out.
My Puss Cat can't help me..🙀
And some of us choose not to have one !!!
Delete🤭
ReplyDeleteKaty is too busy and the dogs aren’t much help! Am stuck on Penny Lane having one idea but it doesn’t quite jell!
DeleteThe only one obvious to me Ev !
DeleteI am pleased to have been in a position in these difficult times, to be able to do a good deed today.
ReplyDeleteA short walk for Lady because she had a very energetic walk yesterday and it's really cold and nasty today.
As we walked through the community field two young lads were trying to break off the patches of ice on the ground of the handball cage. They had found pieces of tree recently cut and laboriously bashing away at clumps of frozen ice.
I suggested they went home for some garden implements but they said it would be too far. I then suggested that one of them came back with me and borrow my garden hoe to do the job. They conferred and accepted. I chatted with the lad who came with me, asked about school, and subjects he is doing in sixth form and future university subjects. When we got to my cottage he said, oh I think my dad has worked here, do you know D W ?
He was my CH engineers son, a sterling man, so I was very happy to let him have the hoe and was confident he would return it.
He did so, half an hour ago.
I hope someone can be kind to my G children if and when they need a kindness.
What a kind gesture on your part MrsP, may your G/children be the recipients too.
DeleteAnd what a happy coincidence about the boy knowing your house.
I love your story Mrs P. A little kindness can go such a long way.
DeleteForgot to change my profile last week. This is another snow scene. Lots of use of white paper! I enjoyed these but still on the slow learning curve! It does keep me out of mischief and nice to engage with others on zoom sessions in these troubled times. I do miss TG and the interaction with the ladies. We had 41 new cases yesterday on the island and 40 today, much lower than previously so hopefully we are winning.
ReplyDeleteOWiaS - Late 30s is not yet in your prime, it's the tail end of the first flush of youth!
DeleteI wish, Sarnia. I think I skipped my prime entirely and booked the fast train to decrepitude.
DeleteBut after my next birthday I shall be prime for 365 days : )
With respect, I think you should change your name to YOUNG WOMAN etc.
ReplyDeleteI refuse to acknowledge that I am getting older, though my body is wearing out. It stems from the day that my then GP told me I had to remember how old I was after I had pulled my chest muscles from axing down a tree. I was only in my early 40 s. If he saw what I do now goodness knows what he would say, he did apologize but as they say the damage was done
No Chelsea Flower Show until the Autumn this year.
ReplyDeleteAt least there should be wonderful displays of my particular favourites, Dahlias. Also Agapanthus, Michaelmas Daisies and other Autumnal beauties.
Does anyone have other suggestions?
Heleniums, later flowering clematis, penstemon, sedums, acer foliage. To name but a few! But one thing that annoys me about flower shows are the gardens where you have flowers that naturally grow at different times of the year blooming at the same time.
DeleteAh! Archerphile “Hinton Ampner “ Dahlias - happy days🤗
DeleteAn Autumn Chelsea how wonderful, and yes plenty of Acer foliage please 👏🏻 One of our favourite trips used to be to “Ramster Gardens” Petworth Road Chiddingfold Surrey and we have stunning iPad photos of their Japanese garden in the Autumn plus other gorgeous trees. The gardens open in the Spring also. Ramster consists of 25 acres of peaceful woodland views of lakes and hillsides and just filled with colour and interest. They have a lovely tearoom too 😉 (worth a “Google”)
Weddings are held in “The Hall” and on one visit we saw the bride and groom out in the grounds - lovely pics or video? for them. It is a gorgeous place and so natural not all precise interesting sculptures there as well as wood carvings to just happen across as you walk around. I so wish we could still visit but there we have our pics and very happy memories.