Miriam - November 18, 2021 at 6:21 PM It is now two days after my Covid booster, and I have suffered! I had Pfizer after 2 AZ ones, and spent today in bed, with a slight temparature, along with a drippy nose. I just felt so tired + lethargic. Still I caught up on with my subscribed listening, from Sounds..and puss cat curled up beside me. Our pets know when we need a bit of comfort..and so help.
Cheshire Cheese - November 18, 2021 at 6:47 PM Sorry to hear that you haven't been well since your Covid booster Miriam and hope you are feeling better soon. All 3 of ours were Pfizer which just caused sore arms for a couple of days.
Lady R - November 19, 2021 at 10:36 AM Bad luck Miriam I hope you are beginning to feel better. I also had Pfizer for my booster following 2 X AZ I briefly had a sore heavy arm but nothing else. It appears to be the luck of the draw…. I’m sure 🐈⬛ enjoyed the extra cosy time with you 🤗
Sarnia - November 18, 2021 at 6:58 PM My daughter was given Pfizer and the second one has resulted in Myocarditis. She is quite poorly.
Miriam - November 18, 2021 at 7:04 PM I wish her well.. 🤗
Sorry to hear that your booster has caused a reaction. Best to stay in bed as you have and get it over with. I do hope you improve over the weekend.
I've not looked in for a day, and had lots of posts to read, but didn't notice until after writing responses to Sarnia...... So nice for you Sarnia to have a gardener who looks after your finances with consideration as well as your garden......... that the blog had changed.
Hello again! Been away for a few days up to Mallaig on the West Highland Line as we were both in the mood for a change of scenery. Have always wanted to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct and when we got an email from ScotRail saying that for 2 weeks all tickets to anywhere in Scotland were buy 1 get 1 free we jumped at the chance to save a few quid!
I had seen endless tv shows about the journey from Glasgow to Mallaig but to see it in the flesh was incredible. Thankfully the weather on the way up was brilliant because on the way back it was so miserable that you couldn't see further that about 200 yards for the entire 5 hour journey. Would heartily recommend it!
Sorry to hear a few of us are still feeling bleurgh - hopefully all will right itself soon. Fingers crossed for everyone!
Very pleased that Mr GG was well enough now for you to use the opportunity to make a trip Gary. A well earned break after the recent health problems endured by you both in different ways.
I can't see a new Archers topic blog so presume you are in the process of changing over. And now seems a good time to thank you again for all your efforts on our behalf. Your a STAR !
Thanks MrsP! And I am glad to report that MrGG is so much better now - apart from the stinking cold that he acquired at some point in the last 24 hours. I have ordered him to the new recliner and am going out for supplies to help him get through it. I think I remember reading somewhere that cake helps with a cold... Do you know, I don't think I've ever had a cold or flu in my life. Cursed with tonsillitis and thyroid problems but never knowingly had the sniffles. Or a headache! No idea what a headache feels like thank goodness.
Oh Gary, you have achieved one of the things in my bucket list with that rail journey, it must have been wonderful for you and Mr GG to be well enough to enjoy it together. So glad to hear that you are both much better apart from the cold & headache!
I can now risk reading this blog again as I have just watched the semi-final of Bake Off and know who is going into the final next week, which I shall watch live. The items they are being asked to bake are astonishing and not what I should be able to do as an amateur baker. I haven’t even heard of half the things they are preparing,or many of the flavours they use. What on earth are Matcha, Yuzu etc and what do they taste like?
I am hoping either Giuseppe or Chiggs will win. I haven’t taken to Chrystelle at all and find her too over-dramatic. Chiggs was one of my son’s nicknames when at University. He worked at Sainsbury’s in the vacations, wearing the old brown uniform. He had to wear a badge with his name on it and they put his initial right up against his surname so it read “Mr Chiggs”…….a name his sister has called him ever since!
My booster reaction is now over. After yet another really good, deep nights sleep, I woke up fighting fit. To know that as I have now the extra protection, it was well worth it. It shows that it is working.
Sis rang last night, so excited, to tell me she has bought the turkey for Christmas!
A Rant. I am getting so fed up with the constant + daily, Christmas catologues appearing in the post (no idea how this is happening as I have tried to block junk mail), and there are now, the constant e-mails as to Black Friday Deals, others stating an extra % if buy now for Christmas, and so it goes on + on. Rant Over! I thought that I had my privacy protected, but this is obviously not good enough. It seems that my details have been passed on to others. I keep a close eye on my bank account and credit score, to spot anything untoward. PS My credit score is a free of charge site.
We opted not to have our details in the general directory, only the limited one, so it's not that much of a problem, Unfortunately, many magazines such as Gardener's World are only small cogs in the much bigger wheel of a parent company. Ordering from YouGarden automatically brings catalogues from Scott's of Stow and House of Bath has been taken over by Wilson's, and so they proliferate. Once I've looked at all the pictures of things I don't want while drinking my coffee, mine just go straight into re-cycling.
I once ordered some bulbs from Spaldings. For the next several years I was a 'valued customer' and got bombarded with catalogues. In the end I got a black felt-tip and wrote on the envelope, 'Garden has been dug up and concreted over. Return to sender.' It did the trick : )
My parents were 'valued customers' of Reader's Digest for years. They never once bought anything, they simply sent in the prize draw entries. (They never once won anything either, so I suppose it was honours even!)
Recently I've been receiving mailshots from a company offering 'no-fuss' cremations, ie, the body is taken away and 'processed' without any further family involvement so they can party to celebrate the life without getting involved in all that grieving stuff. Apparently this is what a lot of people want, but to me it is appallingly unhealthy and likely to store up emotional difficulties for the future. I rang the company and told them so, and the communications ceased.
Our Friday evening was spent at the Christmas Trail at Dunham Massey today. We had two attempts last year both cancelled because of lockdowns so we were pleased to finally make it.
Going back to the catalogues through the post issue: they rely on people like me who love to trawl through these in the winter. Presumably I have shown an interest in that product at some time so I can see why they think I might be a likely customer. However there should be a cut off point of one or two years if no more orders come through. I have this problem on line and am inundated with product and sales news every day. It is easy to delete and I believe, in the small print, there is a link to stop them completely.
I had a mountain of ironing to do, which was done watching the last episode of the last series, of Endeavor. I enjoyed it, but was a mis-match of a couple of Agatha Christie S/L's and not a true Morse type riddle + puzzle. Still it was intriguing, and got my brain cells working. I got a bit of the plot, but the rest was beyond me, as a bit too OTT.
The 3 light bulbs in my landing light, have all just blown together! I have checked the trip switches, which look OK. I have no spares, so to buy more is a neccesity tommorow. If my local hardware shop doesn't have them, then I will have to wait until Monday, to go to the perfect place, I know. This is more of an electrcal place for the trades, but they will serve the public as well.
I have my electrics on my homecare service, + a fire alarm is close by. As such, I am not too concerned, well just yet.
This is one of those times that, I don't like being an individual home-owner, as the bathroom bulb has gone as well. All the bedroom lights, which are on the same circuit, are working fine. It's just a mystery...
Miriam I think there is some strange ' law ' or perhaps a language between light bulbs. I have two, one over the stairs and one in the upper hallway, matching lights with a bulb that unscrews with the light bulb tucked inside. ( sorry, not well described ) the one in the hall I can reach on steps, but the one over the stairs I cannot reach and have to wait until a tall person comes into the house. As soon as one is replaced the other one seems to go within ten days. Last week they both went within two days of each other. No light at all now ! I'm as sorry for you as I am for myself !
Does anyone else watch Countdown? Mr A and I have been very regular viewers since the first edition was broadcast on the night of Channel 4’s opening. We record the lunchtime programme and watch it later in the afternoon with a cup of tea, it has become a daily ritual. However we have been very unimpressed by Anne Robinson as the new presenter and find her often rude and sarcastic to competitors and difficult to watch. She seems to have no empathy with anyone on the show and asks very intrusive questions of the guests in dictionary corner.
We now read that there is a feud going on between her and Rachel Riley, the Maths genius who has just given birth to her second baby and, though still on screen in recorded episodes, will be on maternity leave until the new year.
I would love to know if there are any other Countdown fans amongst us and what you feel about the situation and what is happening on such a well-loved television quiz.
Archerphile- as you probably remember I don't watch television, but I do know about Anne Robinson and what a very rude, sarcastic person she is as well as apparently lacking any empathy. What I understand is that this is her style and has been forever. She was criticised for precisely this over many years when on her previous programme (Forgotten the name) and I heard an interview with her when it was announced that she would be joining Countdown, and this was discussed. Presumably the producers knew what they were getting when they signed her up. Perhaps they wanted to shake things up ? Sounds like they have !
Fancy being proud to be known as the 'Queen of Mean'. I've heard her claim that she is really quite soft and fluffy underneath, although she didn't specify how far down that was.
Agreed re light bulbs, Mrs P (yesterday, 11.44). I'm constantly irritated by their ability to render me helpless. Of course, I could decide to be pig-headed like my elder sister and refuse to accept that reaching up to change a bulb while standing on something is no longer within my capacity, but that would land me in a worse pickle than I'm in already. As it is, having forgotten to ask my son to put a new one in my bedroom I'll have to do without until his next visit, hopefully in December.
Sarnia - your words bring comfort, knowing one is not alone with these difficulties. Hope you get some light in your bedroom soon. Standing on or even climbing up a short step ladder, and especially in getting down, is in itself challenging now. Damned Covid has stripped me of so much confidence, and I do realise that I am not alone of course.
I've never been much good with light bulbs, Mrs P, due mainly I think to lack of height. They've always made me nervous in case they suddenly light up when inserted because no one can remember whether the switch was on or off. On the rare occasions when I seemed to have got it right, the wretched thing has fallen out several days later and fused everything, leaving me back in the doghouse where I used to belong.
Electric problems are continuing, but it's not just me. Our power supply is reduced, for some as yet, unknown reason. My tea took twice as long to cook, and my HDD recorder (whilst recording something) flashed up a message - recording failed due to low power. Also my intertent keeps failing, on and off. Think that there is a cable problem, close by. Still at least no power cut
OMiaS and I have just man-handled a 6ft bookcase up the stairs! Managed not to break any bones or lightbulbs in the process : ) Annoyingly, it's 1cm too wide to fit next to the window - we don't think the Diocese would be happy about me removing the radiator to squeeze it in. But fortunately it can go against the other wall so all is well.
Much is being made of a potential shortage of Christmas gifts, especially the wildly expensive franchise toys which children can't live without these days, but I've discovered a dearth of items which is much more fundamental. I don't know if the gentlemen are experiencing a similar difficulty, but in the local Sainsbury's, (still the only store to which I have access) there is a lamentable lack of underwear in the size and type that real people wear. All that seems to be available is styles I've never heard of in a size 8 and which look like the staple of a pole-dancer's wardrobe.
Winter has arrived, as I was scraping frost/ice off car at 8.00am, as needed an early start. As I mentioned a while ago, I bought new bedding, a while back. The duvet is a pure delight, lightweight and so warm and snuggly. It keeps me normal (if that is possible), so do not get too hot, nor feel any cold. Mind you my HWB of pusscat, curled up beside me, helps. 😺
Thank-you, Mistral (I think it was you), for the nod to The Latvian Locum. I thoroughly enjoyed both series, as they were both light-hearted, yet interesting at the same time. Now for the latest Charles Paris mystery....I still have 16days left to listen. It is strange with Sounds, in that some series are only available for 30 days, yet others can be listened to for over a year.
No Miriam, it wasn't me, but I did enjoy the series when it was on. My favourite series is the Katherine Jakeways one about a couple who meet on a train, I think it's called 'The train now departing', there are four plays in the series.
Another series I so enjoyed, but just cannot find what it was called, was about a care worker and the 15 minute allocated slots per visit. It was funny but meaningful..
Flying Visits: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00075hw and Where This Service Will Depart: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0005289
John Finnemore's Penguin Diplomacy is back on at 11.30 today. Well worth a listen if you've never heard it. And definitely worth a re-listen if you have : )
I was feeling pretty smug about my Xmas preparations, I stirred my pudding on Sunday and planned to cook them today, having been able to track down the necessary part to bring my venerable (35 year old) pressure cooker back to life. I weighed the larger pud and put it into the pressure cooker with the appropriate amount of water. It is several years since I bothered to make my pudding and for quite a lot of the time I had everything bubbling rather too vigorously. Consequently when I opened the pressure cooker it had very nearly boiled dry, unfortunately I was using a plastic bowl which had melted and fused itself to trivet…..big oops and a few choice Anglo-Saxon expletives. In cleaning the trivet I managed to cut three fingers……. Such is life. Fortunately I still have the smaller pudding which will probably suffice, and a recipe for Xmas pudding soufflé which I can use the salvaged remains in so not a total disaster ( and the pudding tastes good, I checked 😋)
Oh, I feel for you. I also am a lover of making a Christmas Pudding I do mine in a steamer, on the hob in an earthenware bowl, which I bought just for this event. There is still time to try again.
The slow cooker is another good method to use. I used to cook mine overnight. This year am having bought ones but made gluten free ones last year which actually were nice and much lighter than normal ones! I am working on gluten free puff pastry as I would like to do a Beef Wellington on the day. So far tried Jusrol which is appalling, one home attempt which was better than Jusrol. It didn’t puff as much as normal puff pastry but I think I may need to accept that with gf. However, I am still experimenting!
KP - so sorry about your lost pudding, but more so about your fingers. I do hope the damage is not too serious. I haven't made Christmas puddings for decades, nor have I cooked a Christmas dinner, but I did buy, from a smal catering outfit way back in the seventies, a wonderful steamer which I always enjoyed using at Christmas. It can accommodate a C'mas Pudding and the vegetables for the day, on a top layer with three containers. Haven't used it for many years and wonder if I ever will again.
I haven't made a Christmas pudding for years, bought ones taste better than mine. I always make a cake and I made 3 dozen mince pies at the weekend, definitely nicer than bought ones.
The second pudding has been cooked without incident, Mrs P. don’t worry, the cuts on my fingers were superficial, I just tend to leak rather. I never bother to make a Christmas cake as I don’t like it, but I do buy stollen and panatonne. I am tempted to try y hand at making the latter this year although I have bought one to be on the safe side.
Talking about cooking, did everyone see the final of Bake Off last night? I won’t mention who won, in case anyone hasn’t seen it yet, but I was delighted with the winner, whom I had marked as a likely candidate from the start. It was a really heartwarming prize giving and I even got Mr A to watch for once! There was no way I was going to risk finding out by accident this morning, so he had no choice - but he enjoyed the show
They all seemed such a friendly bunch of contestants this year, no dramas or histrionics, helping each other out and so talented. Looking forward to next year’s already.
I think it is lovely that the winner (trying not to mention the name!) and elderly dad are going to create a cookery book of their family recipes together.
Yes, I watched Bake off last night, I agree that they have been a really good bunch this year, the top four were all amazing and choosing the winner must have been hard for the judges, but I was happy with the final result.
Me too! Very happy with the result. Do you watch An Extra Slice on Friday? Probably not everyone’s cup of tea but looking forward to seeing the three this week.
Well I’m in a right peed off mood tonight. Couldn’t be bothered with tea so we’ve had a toasted cheese sarni. Now going to watch Guy Martin from the other night. He usually perks me up….think he’s fab.
We had meatballs in tomato sauce with pasta. A very easy meal as I don’t do complicated nowadays! Katy has had a busy week so I am watch on stop on but on Thursdays we have a takeaway so a rest tomorrow! Have started a clear out of the store cupboard which used to be a toilet before we moved it to the bathroom which is opposite the bedroom. It is all shelved and I’m afraid things get chucked in there so a periodic sort out is required! It’s amazing what you find! Today an unopened peanut butter which expired in 2020. I blame lockdown!!
Ptby hope you are feeling better. These moody days can knock you for six.
I was using up the remains of our roast chicken from. Sunday. It was chicken curry on Monday Chicken & tomato macaroni bake on Tuesday And chicken gougère tonight - my favourite!
I ate out, son visiting from Jersey, sorting out own stuff in the attic as I plan to move next year. He is the last one to claim all his old treasure/junk. Having a very nice week, but eating too much, heating on too much, but making the most of it because the builder and electrician are coming on 1/12, and I am moving out until the worst is over. Been trying to get this sorted since April. Cancelled Christmas here and foisted myself onto Devon daughter, so apart from an uninhabitable house for a week or two, I'm hoping for a relaxing stress-free time. Have now also retired and never been so busy. Looking forward to 2022 and better times ahead, fingers crossed.
Thank you Archerphile, I too hope things pick up for everyone next year. I don't say 'go back to normal', because I'm not sure it was better, but I think adapt and change and accept are my key words for the next phase of my life.
I wish my youngest was in a position to sort out and move her stuff Mistral. I don't blame you for moving out when your builders move in. We recently replaced our bathroom and downstairs cloakroom and that was bad enough. We're currently on tenterhooks awaiting arrival of new grandchild, due yesterday.
As others have said, I also thought the GBBO Final was wonderful. It was nail-biting, yet enjoyable both at the same time. I would have been happy as to, which of them one. They were all worthy winners, to me. Still, I am now into Masterchef, The Professionals. I love how some contestants are so cocky, some so humble, then to just see how they actually do.
I am still not fully normal, but I am now adapting fast to the new normality. Doctors on Wednesday, did an episode based on this. It was so very realistic and true.
It is worth watching, as it was a "one-off" episode, which addressed a topic that some are still going through. I went to a new local + wonderful Co-op today, just for a look. I was the only one wearing a mask! Mind you it wasn't busy.
Let's hope this predicted weekend storm, is not as predicted. Family nearby are so angry, as the usual Saturday Farmers market, in the Cheshire town they live in, has already been cancelled, due to the impending storm. This was the last one before Christmas, so many stall-holders will lose out, as will their customers. This is that the produce wanted, cannot be bought, and livelihoods, of the merchants will be affected, due to loss of income. This storm might not just happen, as predicted, as to its intensity and severity.
Family wanted to buy farm fresh reared pork, beef, chicken, etc. direct from the producers, to last for the next month. This will now not happen, sadly.
Big celebration day today. After nearly 5 months our shed finally arrived and was erected. Had a good afternoon filling it with usual shed kelt. Going to have a gin to celebrate.
Where has everyone gone? On previous days when I have looked in, there have been so many interesting posts to read. I so hope that this is due to the fact that you are all now enjoying life to the full, with family + friends, and so it should be at last. Mrs P. Have you found your new home yet?
I have had the most peculiar experience recently. Some of my tins of tonic water have emptied themselves with no apparent breach in the tins. I submerged the unopened but empty tins in water, no bubbles, and a sticky residue on the shelf. All very odd. It has happened with two different brands, all tins within use-by dates and in the fridge & at room temperature. Has anyone else ever had this happen?
Hope everyone is keeping safe in this storm. We’ve woken to the 6ft fence between us and next door being down. It’s next doors fence so hopefully he’ll sort someone to fix it. Thankfully the new shed is still standing. Phew!
Nothing much to say, Miriam. More new realisations to come to terms with, and still trying to work out how to organise all the extra tasks in ways which can accommodate my limited mobility. Also fighting hangover from lockdown lethargy and finding energy to cope with being back at work.
Son and partners flight cancelled yesterday, and roof from overnight hotel blown off (partially). Snow here, greenhouse down, roof felt off the shed, and I've got to start pulling kitchen cupboards out before the builder starts on Weds. All extremely horrible.
Postponed my trip to Taunton ( cider and cricket ! ) today due to expectation of bad weather and I'm glad I did. No damage for me, but it is very cold and Lady will be getting the briefest of walks today. Still spending much of each day on Rightmove and researching different small towns.
Sarnia, I sympathise with your problems, I have very similar and struggle with so much.
Hello All My reason for not contributing much recently is that it’s become such a pain trying to get anything to publish with my iPad. Takes ages deleting history several times, having to open a new tab and log in all over again. I’d love to know how you are getting on with your new iPad, Mrs P and whether you have problems with OS 14 which seems to be the cause?
Woke up to horizontal snow this morning, settled for a brief while but now turned to rain and strong winds. Hope all are safe, especially our Scotland dwellers, with no structural damage to houses.
Bit concerned this new Omicron variant could complicate our visit to France on 20th Dec, but I suppose anything can happen at short notice these days and we’ll just have to deal with it at the time. Keep warm and safe everyone!
Archerphile - I'm not really using my new IPad yet. My daughter has set up Rightmove alerts on it, and I am (very) slowly sending out my new email address. My greatest problem is opening it. When my I went with daughter to Apple to set it up, the security now is for fingertip recognition. This took quite some time, whereby I had to put my finger tip onto the pad over and over again for it to recognise all the lines. However it's not working. I have to offer my finger over and over again without any result. Eventually it tells me that it doesn't recognise my fingerprint, but then does offer the alternative of my security pass number, which is the same as previously. This then works, but the frustration of having to go through this rigmarole each time is off putting. I hope that at some point I can bypass this security option, but it will mean yet another trip to Apple in Bath.
Sorry but OS14 means nothing to me. Can you explain ?
A wild night with the strong winds (an amber warning) and horizontal rain, but no snow. Damage is minimal here, as compared to else-where in the country. There are plenty of houses with fence panels and gates down, plus lots of missing tiles on many roofs. The worst was a nearby neighbour, as a small tree in his next door garden, crashed into his garden flattening 2 fence panels. I have no damage at all, except for debris blown into garden. Phew! I cannot recall a wind like that, which was quite frightening in the small, wee hours. I hope all are staying safe, and any damage is minimal, only garden related not the comfy, warm home.
Big Sis in N.Wales still has no elecricity, and niece in east cheshire, lost the roof of the summer house. I hope all are safe and well
I wish all a much safer night and if like me, a better nights sleep. My home was so cold this morning, as the strong wind was blowing the cat flap open during the night, and I am sort of open plan. I didn't lock it for 2 reasons:- not sure if a strong gust would break the locking device, and I didn't want to prevent Puss Cat from going out, if she dared. She must have, or has great control! 😽
Don't know how PtbY will be faring as far as the damage the gale may have caused, Yorkshire appears to be badly hit. Miriam has described some problems in Cheshire along with Mistral and CC. I wish you all well. My daughter was driving to York from Bath for friends get together, but no reports so far. I don't envy her the drive. Here in my part of Gloucestershire it's very cold and there was a smattering of snow, but only a few branches of trees down in the churchyard for Lady's reduced walk today.
I wish all well. Gary, have you lost electrical power ?
My new side gate fell off the house yesterday, but nothing to do with the wind, it just landed on me when I tried to lock it. Inadequate attachment to the wall for a much heavier gate than before. I'm hoping the inclement weather keeps the local juvenile criminal fraternity at home glued to their video games until C can come to fix it, as access to the rear of the house is visible to all..
Just got a message from my son, now back in Jersey after a 26 hour delay. I am amazed, trees down here, front fence,8' high snapped posts at the bottom and blocked the public footpath alley, I had to put orange carrier bags and gaffer tape all over it to warn pedestrians and not take their eyes out with strategically placed nails. Got a couple of handy men to shift it before dark, so now have a decking area instead of a front garden! I like a bit of weather though, and a bit of damage is nothing compared to loss of life, the news this week has been horrible.
Mrs P, re iPads. iOS 14 is the name of the operating system an iPad or phone is working on. They update it about once a year and each time it adds new features and ways of doing things. When they introduced iOS14 about 18 months ago it became very difficult to use our blogs. For some reason it doesn’t work well with the Google blog spot and I have to perform all sorts of actions to put a comment on here though I can read everybody else’s. I still have an old iPod which runs on iOS 12 which is works OK with our blogs but it is tiny and has a very small keypad which I find tricky to use.
I bought a new iphone earlier this year ( also works on iOS14) and, like you, spent ages setting up my fingerprint for quick and secure access. But, again like you, I find it doesn’t work. So I don’t even bother trying to use it now, I just use my password code for quick access.
I read that there is now iOS15 available and you can update your Apple device by downloading it. But I am very reluctant to do do as it will alter things again, have lots of new features I will probably never use and a. different looking homepage. I sometimes think they keep updating things just because they can and it’s not really necessary!
My new phone (insisted upon by son) has fingerprint recognition, although it can be very choosy as to whether it will or won't. If I've applied my finger at the wrong angle, just washed my hands, been gardening or doing just about anything that adds a smidgeon of difference to the original print, recognition says 'No!' After nearly 70 years at keyboards of one sort or another I haven't much left in the way of fingerprints anyway, so I suppose the poor thing hasn't much to go on. I often wonder how it would behave in a real emergency.
Woken to a quiet morning. Thank goodness no wind. Found the garage roof leaking in two places last night…..yet another job for next year….and the fence down. That’s all we seemed to have suffered. Dogs didn’t go out yesterday. Daphne was a bit hyper last night. She’s going for a big walk today!!!
Buddy and Dudley didn’t go out yesterday as they don’t do strong wind! It was also bitterly cold. Today is much brighter and they had their long walk at Firestone Copse. Dudley prefers to stay at home reposing on a cushion but Buddy like Daphne gets seriously hyper! We haven’t had any damage at home apart from my notice on the post box about depositing post and circulars in there blew off so I need to put it back on. If post is put through the door, Dudley demolishes it so post box very necessary! Nowadays we have a motley crew of post persons where a few years ago you could get to know your post man or lady. It is sad and is this progress?😉🐾🐾🐶
Why not put one of those wire collection baskets, on the inside? Don't do an outside post box. I have read so much, about stealing posts from these, cloning personal details, leading to many things, even houses being sold without the true owner knowing nothing.
I had a regular postie for years. Now I also have a motley crew. In their defence, they do a great job and we are lucky that our post is still delievered, to our homes, on a daily basis.
My postman hates dogs and started putting D or even DD on my letters. (Dog/Dangerous Dog). All my dogs live the postman and bring me the letters, sometimes a bit chewed, but they all seemed to think it was a great game. This (in my view, silly) man finally threatened to stop my deliveries, and apparently mentioned me every week at his health and safety meeting. I finally gave in and ordered a very nice outdoor post box from a forge in Yorkshire, it took them 6 weeks to make and send, which enraged the man who demanded an explanation of why I didn't use Amazon Prime? He didn't like my explanation either. Anyway, the thing is installed and I am going to take it down tomorrow, because with no fencing in place, everybody going up and down the alley could just put their hands in and steal my post. I expect to be banned.
I had snow falling today! It was quite heavy at times, but the ground was far too wet for it to stick. Car has a slight covering on it, which is now freezing solid ❄ Snow for me, is so very unusual.
To get snow with me is very unusual, but it also means that you get it much worse. My drive also has a slope, so when it is snowy/icy, car is parked much further up, almost on the pavement!
Trying again ...... We went to Haresfield today. Lots of rabbit smells but no sightings today. Pathetic snowflakes hardly touched Ladys coat, and not as bitterly cold as yesterday.
Wrote a piece about a problem and asking for advice, but it didn't publish. Archerphile will know how I feel. Might try again later.
And Archerphile, ( and Sarnia ) it's comforting to discover that I'm not alone in opening my new IPad with fingertip recognition. I have noticed that after several attempts it offers me the alternative of my password. Is it reasonable to assume that eventually the device gives up and accepts the password option without the fingertip one ?
A smattering of snow here in Hampshire this evening, Archerphile may have had more her way even though we are not so far apart. We had a superb roast dinner today at the home of our neighbours daughter it was Mr neighbours birthday yesterday so to ensure we could all have a celebratory drink I organised taxis for the few miles we needed to cover. Sometime since I/we have done so the treat meant I could have a drink but the meter certainly knows how to spin around I have to say 🤣 but even though the outward bound journey was a little late due to the booked vehicle hitting gridlock on its way returning from a trip to Winchester which meant that the boss had to be called upon to take over at last minute it was worth it!
A very light dusting in my corner of Hampshire, enough to look pretty but not make driving too difficult 🤞 Lovely day yesterday, MrNuts and I went to Chichester to see Susie Dent and Giles Brandreth preceded by lunch at the on-site restaurant. Mask compliance in the theatre was really high, 90+% compared to the sub50% we have seen on our last few outings. I do hope that people’s Xmas plans aren’t too disrupted, I am hoping to meet up with my siblings and any of our off-spring who care to join us oldies. Depending on whether certain arguments have been put to bed this may be one large or two smaller get togethers, the problem is between one of my sisters and my sister-in-law but with luck they are ready to move on and continue their long standing friendship. My sister introduced SinL to my brother.
Yes, Lady R, woken up to a proper covering of snow over the garden this morning, it looks just like a Christmas card! Very pretty but very cold.
And Mrs P, regarding fingertip access to your iPad- I think you are right, after a while the device seems to give up asking for a fingerprint and is happy with the password code number.
And KP - we very much envy your evening with Susie Dent ( not so much Gyles Brandreth though). She is one of our favourite experts and I have several of her books. We always used to feel that when GB was a dictionary corner guest on Coundown he used to be over familiar with her, leaning over her a lot and ‘invading her space’. It made me cringe but perhaps he is better behaved these days. I’d love to know what the evening consisted of, I’m sure it must have been very interesting.
Had my booster jab at last. The GP practice could only offer me appointments at surgeries too far away for me to get to. Yesterday a friend had an appointment at Boots after morning service, so they took me with them and mine was done as well. They were using Moderna that day, so I've been able to put my daughter's mind at rest.
Good news Sarnia. Wonder if we shall all have to have a new, different c Vaccine when they sort Omicron out.
By the way, I was always taught to pronounce that Greek letter as OH-micron, not OM-icron as all the newsreaders are saying. Does anyone agree with me? I am finding it very irritating! Wonder if we ever get to Omega they will mispronounce that too. 😄
On looking out this morning, it was as expected - white. Not snow as such, but a very heavy frost, along with a smattering of frozen snow on cars, roofs, lawns, + hedges. It finally melted mid-morning. Neice + partner are concerned today. His parents from Mauritus are due to land at Heathrow in 11days time. With the ever changing rules re tests + self-isolation, this trip might not know happen. It is too early to know, though. Partner so wants to see his parents again, after a 3 years separation, as do their grandkids. Archerphile must be in the same situation. 🤞🤞Things can be sorted.
Oh, AP, pronunciations are always changing. The problem is that our original source wasn't necessarily right in the first place. Back in 2014 we went on a cruise which more or less followed the routes taken by the disciples in the first century, visiting sites in Greece and Turkey like Troy and Philippi. One such place in Turkey was pronounced by everyone around us, including the Turkish guide, as Kusha-dassi, with a cedilla under the first 's', producing the 'sh' sound. A friend whose children had both visited the place on a school cruise many years ago, kept correcting me. The teachers on the cruise had taught that it should be pronounced Kuss- Addassy, and nothing could persuade her that the teachers had been wrong, even the fact that the local population didn't call it that! This is a lady who badly needs always to be in the right.
Trollope's Sir Omicron Pie was pronounced in the BBC series with a 'me', not an 'I' in the middle. But there seems to be a fair bit of discussion on the internet. The NY Times article I've just found says that classical Greek would have been close to 'me'. OMiaS studied New Testament Greek and tells me it's O-mi-cron. NY Times article quotes our esteemd PM saying 'OH-my-kraan.'
Of course, me-cro-metres would sound as silly as my-lli-metres, so I guess we'll just have to put up with a bit of inconsistency ; )
Has anyone else had a bad reaction to the Moderna booster? I had it last Thursday afternoon and by Friday morning I felt as though I had been knocked for six, shaking like a leaf and feeling cold even though in a warm room, bad headache and aching body and so drained and tired I have spent most of the time since in bed resting. The physical things are easing up now but I am still totally drained of energy. The Astra zeneca only resulted in a mildly sore arm. I feel so sorry for people who live, and cope with things, alone.
Much like me with my booster Janice, although I has vomiting and diarrhoea for four hours which started four hours after my injection. Certainly drained, for two weeks, but not an achy body. Pretty sure mine was to do with the combination of flue and Covid within three days. But mine was not Moderna.
I suppose that it's inevitable that some of us will have a bad reaction. Fortunately most don't.
Archerphile I always(don't use the word often) pronounce omega as oh me gah. I don't know if that is the correct pronunciation but I am too old to change now. What about Pisces.? I pronounce that as piss (sorry ) caze not pie seas .
Ah, a Latin scholar. As a choir leader I had an awful struggle with 'church' Latin. I know it sounds better when sung, but my assorted host of wildly eccentric Latin teachers would have had a corporate fit.
Yes, Janice, I had my Moderna booster yesterday and today has been really rubbish: big, hard swollen arm, splitting headache, swimmy head, worn out, aching limbs and feeling generally shivery and fluey. Also slightly queasy from time to time and don't really feel like eating. Slept all the afternoon and am now on my way back to bed. Me! At 11.30! That's when you know something's not right! AZ was just a bit of a headache and heavy legs for a couple of days.
I now think we must have been very lucky to have had Pfizer for all 3 of our vaccinations rather than a mixture. Mr A had no reactions after any of them and I just had the swollen, itchy arm problem but did not actually feel as unwell as some of you. All the grandchildren (aged14 - 23) had Moderna jabs but had no after effects. Seems to be the luck of the draw!
I too had all three Pfizer jabs. I had sore arm, in the immediate vicinity of the jab on left arm, which caused sleeping problems on the first night of the first injection. However I had the second jab on the right arm and apart from some tenderness on the spot itself I had no reactions at all. For the booster jab I had absolutely nothing!
My booster was Pfizer following two AZ jabs, and I just had a slightly heavy arm for a few hours afterwards. After my first AZ had an increased temp and felt off for a day and nothing after the second AZ. I do not know anyone who has had the Moderma vac or booster- but feeling for our blogger friends who have (or have had) unpleasant side effects from it.
I had Pfizer for all three. Katy had AZ for first two and Pfizer booster. Neither of us had any after effects, not even a sore arm. Yes, it is the luck of the draw and I wonder whether those of us who had these post vaccine problems would have been very seriously ill if they had been infected with the virus without vaccines. The problem is that each of us have no knowledge beforehand of the consequences for us. Hoping that Janice, Sarnia or other sufferers feel better now and thinking of you.
We'll be a pair, PtbY, as I too have double vision at the moment because of Thyroid problems! I suspect it's the tablets I have been taken for the bullous Pemaphagoid for about 2 years, so immuinity is barely existant which has sent my thyroid into overdrive instead of being under-performing. Trouble is I can't drive and have to wear eye patch if there is anything I watch on TV! (Good job that two sons have pirate outfits!) I have a radion test on 6th January and a phone appontment with consultant on 28th so I'll just have to put up with it. Cooking should be fun!
Maybe the dermatologist, who I am seeing on Saturday, has better announcement though the blisters are on my legs again. I am very depressed much of the time but sons, daughter and daughter-in-laws cheer me up as well as siblings.
Knitting for shawl for niece is now going well, now I have remembered the pattern, without looking at booklet at all times! Trouble is I do about 4 rows then have a couple of days for a break! Trouble is concentration!
Finally Boots have upset me as one young pharmacist accused me of having too many pills! I did say, with three consultants and one GP prescribing pills that I was quite ill!
Spicy I am angry and disgusted regarding the comment made to you by the young Pharmacist in Boots! I’m quite sure you would love not to be in the situation you find yourself in and she should realise this. (I am assuming she did not say what she did to sympathise with you for being in such a situation?)
Spicy, you must have felt very upset by that pharmacists comment. Being young, she or he would be well aware, - perhaps more so than an older professional, due to being closer to training - of the dangers of over medication. And perhaps, not too well versed in diplomacy yet. I do hope for your sake that each of your different consultants plus your GP do pay attention to the consequences of mixing medications. But of course it's the pharmacist who is the senior professional where drugs are concerned. I wonder what Miriam will have to say about your experience ?
Sympathies to all feeling wrung out or worse due to the booster, and hopes that better days will come soon.
Poor Spicey, I feel ashamed at my dissatisfaction with my own minor health complaints. Thank you everyone, I am feeling better this morning, although now I've got dressed I realise, not quite as much as I thought I was. Washed out is the word, Janice. I will take the day cautiously
No, no, no! Most times I am happy and have several people who keep me in their thoughts. Most times when I am in company I have a happy time! It's just when I am alone my thoughts wander and fix on bad times! 1)Have a magazine or a book to read. I get lost in the pages and be a Viking (Bernard Cornwell), fantasy (Terry Pratchett) and any of my old favourites (Jane Austin, Harper Lee and detective stories) 2)Look at the weather and if blowy say 'Good day for washing, rainy, 'Well the garden needs it', sunshine - warmth and freshness. 3)Have a clear out of clothes, gifts not used, trinkets not liked etc.
I too had to take one day at a time due to being depressed. Do a bit at a time and gradually build up! Sometimes when children were away I didn't get dressed at all! Take care.
Ooh, I can now access the blog on my phone, although without the ident. I now understand the complaints about how far it is to scroll down, so I think the laptop will still be my instrument of preference!
I had two AZ vaccines, followed by a Pfizer booster. I was very unwell after my 1st jab, had a reaction after the 2nd which was not as bad. I was thrilled that my 3rd was Pfizer. All those I know who had similar, said they were fine. Not me! My arm was worse than ever with a hot swelling, and after 36hrs I had a temperature and drippy nose. Big Sis, had exactly the same symptoms after the same combination, but then we are genetically similar, so perhaps not surprising.. These affects disappeared after exactly a week, for both of us. There is only 20months difference in age, and as youngsters many thought we were twins. How wrong that was, as I am tall + slim, wheras she is short + dumpy. The third sister is just a mix!
The young pharmacist that Sarnia encountered, does seem not to have handled things in the professional way expected. I was a Pre-Reg Tutor in my time. When some-one passes the Pharmacy degree, they have to work under supervision with a Pharmacist for a year, before taking the final exam. On passing they are registered as a pharmacist. Some years I had a pre-reg pharmacist, training with me for the whole year. In other years I would have pre-reg pharmacists, who were working in a big nearby hospital, for 4 weeks at a time. These I had to particulary train on inter- personal skills, talking and inter-acting with the public. It sounds Spicy was unlucky, with her young pharmacist, who perhaps didn't know the full extent of her problems and was still a bit in-experienced. This was why I loved being a community pharmacist. I knew my regulars so well, but also had a good and close working relationship with 2 local GP surgeries.
Spicy - you are an inspiration to us all with your positive attitude despite all your problems. I know only too well what those days of depression can be like, when life doesn’t seem to be worth living. I was going to tell you about one particularly bad day I had some years ago but I then thought better of it. It is important to think of the good things in life, the things that make life worthwhile and not to dwell on the negative. So thank you for making me stop to count my blessings and stop worrying about what might go wrong and resolve to take a more positive attitude to life and events. Bless you.
I hope that everyone is recovering well from their boosters. I had the same reaction as I had to the second jab - in bed, aching all over and generally unwell. At least with the booster it wasn't as long lived. Not pleasant but am pleased to have the added immunity. An unexpected compliment today from my daughter who said I was "in style"! This because my jeans are to my waist which, apparently, is back in style. As I've had said jeans for many years it is true that if you keep things long enough they'll come back into fashion.
Spicey, you inspired me to tidy my scarf collection. They are now filed according to size rather than colour and there is a lot more room in the drawer. I'm feeling quite well now, which I might have done by now anyway, but I think you should take your share of the credit for it.
I'm now searching my handbag collection to see if I can find a) The two bottles of the only shampoo I can use at present, which I'm sure I bought last February and left in my handbag, and b) the Building Soc Pass book used to withdraw money for the garden work, also last February which was securely zipped into the inside pocket of my handbag - if only I could remember which one!
A friend at church once assured me that there was no such thing as too many handbags, but I'm beginning to have my doubts... ...
I found Miriam's reply about pharmacy training helpful. Let's hope your young Sikh man has some more 'face to face personel' training from his pre - reg tutor Spiceycushion.
I could do with some of your positivity Spiceycushion. Please parcel some up and send it pronto !
Had a long and hard conversation with eldest D last night. For various reasons I am terrified of moving. The how rather than the why. I do want to leave this cottage and this town, but the logistics of how that can happen terrifies me. I am not the capable hands on person I was decades ago, but still retain the ambition to change that I had then. As a very untidy hoarder with a massive and expensive storage problem which I haven't managed to reduce in the six years that I've been here, my negative feelings are very much to the fore right now. My daughter was trying to persuade me that I can 'do it'. My fear that I shan't manage to do so reduces me to a very negative state.
I'm off to Minehead to view properties tomorrow. I have to be there for a 10.30 viewing, and it's over a two hour drive.
I've dropped Lady off to a friend this evening for a sleepover.
It's very interesting, this worrying ahead/hoarding/ lack of energy etc, all apply to me. I have a builder and electrician here from tomorrow, damp proofing 2 sides of the house, one wall is underground, so needs tanking. This has meant removing all the cupboards and furniture, utensils, everything, and has taken me weeks. All I need to do now is put dust sheets in place. I'm not good at disposing of things, and have really taken a lot of time and trouble to re-home stuff but the sheer hell of facing up to the task has been the worst bit, plus procrastinating. I actually regret tackling it now, and I know it will get much, much worse over the next few days. It's all very well knowing we can do things, but finding the reason, time, energy, motivation to do them is the challenge. I have known myself to literally spin on the spot when stressed, not knowing what to do first, at which point I generally give up for a while. The only times I can really get on are when someone else helps me, it is true in my case that a task shared is a task which becomes manageable. It is also for me an age thing, I used to be very dynamic when younger. These days I can't do anything before breakfast or when it gets dark, or after 5 p.m etc etc, all self imposed restrictions because actually, there are things that I just don't want to do at all. Ever.
As you get older it becomes harder to cope with the things that need to be done. Mrs P, moving is very stressful and I do know how frightening it is to think of all the things that need doing. The best thing is to try to achieve a bit every day and sort things into items to keep, items to throw away and items to bundle up and take to the charity shop. Special treasures need to be set aside to travel with you when you move. Be ruthless in getting rid to make life easier. Clutter complicates our lives and I am still weeding out stuff I really don’t need! You can do it and don’t pull back from allowing others to help you. Good luck and hope you find your next home soon!😊
Me too, me too. I shrink from the chaos of having the house re-wired, but I can't chase up the electrician until I find the pass book to the account with the money in it. This has provided a powerful disincentive to search the handbags.
I was in bed before ten in preparation for my v early start tomorrow, but predictably didn't get off to sleep so now having consumed hot milk and cheese and biscuits just dropped in here.
Mistral, you have described so well exactly how I am, including the heel pinning followed by deflation. And your final piece about the loss of dynamism, self imposed restrictions and finally not really wanting to do any of it, describes far better than I how I feel. Incidentally your cottage sounds the same as mine. Because it's below ground level I had the problems that you are having to remediate. And by the way, I did get through that building programme successfully, but then couldn't reinstate the chaos caused by the work. Thank you Mistral for your heartfelt response to my post. I would love my daughter to read it.
And Sarnia, you've given me a chuckle. I know that problem too.
Ev, I would love to find someone to help. If I'd succeeded at that after the building work, I probably wouldn't want to move. And my daughter has laid into me heavily, because she believes it's invidious to ask for help and that I am and should be capable of doing it for myself. I don't know where she got that particular value from, since she watched her mother helping others throughout her life.
There is one extremely nice property to view tomorrow. It's at the higher end of my budget but probably worth it. But my worry is that I will think it too nice, and too good for me. After struggling throughout my life, with a feckless husband, his debts, single parenthood and in later years, my inability to create a reasonable home, my self esteem is at rock bottom.
Sorry to be such a negative wet blanket. I did say I needed some of Spiceycushions positive outlook didn't I.
Mrs P, your daughter is wrong in my opinion saying you should be able to do it all yourself. I was 67 when we moved here but even at that age it was overwhelming even though we had moved many times in the past. Fortunately that meant we had ditched a lot of things along the way but even so I had to get rid of a fair amount before we moved. Mike was there and although I had to do most of the packing etc, he did cook the meals and backed me up. On your own it is a different matter and in my case I know Katy would step up to the plate to help. For you and AF the task can seem overwhelming and then you just can’t face doing anything. I have been there! As I said, you need to be ruthless in getting rid. Take it one day at a time and pace yourself. If help is offered, take it even if just someone doing the odd Lady walk! How is she BTW?😊
Try searching your handbags, Mrs P, always supposing you have more than one, it'll send you off on a totally different tack and you'll still feel you've taken control of something. I've found my sunglasses which I don't need, and my summer lightweight waterproof; pencils, pens, packets of tissues, my ventilator and several other things I didn't know I'd lost, and a white handbag that's been missing for so many years I'd bought another in its place. No pass book, though, and as for the bottles of shampoo - well, with David's passing closely followed by 8 months' isolation, everything has danced at least three times round the house , so they've either disappeared underneath one of the many piles of something I haven't done and fetched up somewhere unfathomable or I never bought them at all, I just thought I did. I wonder which it is.
So Sorry you have having these negative feelings Mrs P. I think many of us are feeling the same after the past couple of years and despite being encouraged by you, and everyone else, to get on with moving, I actually quite dread it too. Although, in principle whishing for a change of surroundings, a more modern and easier to maintain house and garden, the thought of the actually move is daunting. The knowledge that we shall have to clear out the cellar, filled with almost 40 years worth of junk and ‘things that might come in useful one day’ and similarly the garage, which has so much junk in it that we can only just squeeze the cars in on a good day, is almost too much to even contemplate. To say nothing of the greenhouse and garden sheds, hundreds of plant pots and garden tools! It would be so much easier to just forget about moving and stay where we are. But I know we must move and I have been feeling so negative, lethargic and disinterested in everything recently that I haven’t even been thinking about where to move to, let alone look at property sites.
So I really do feel for you, especially having to do all this on your own which must be even more daunting. But perhaps the property in Minehead (lovely location) will be attractive enough to spur you on and give you the impetus and courage to make that move. I do hope so.
So much in the last few posts has resonated with me. I have collected a lot of stuff in life, plus family, in the belief I like old interesting things, have well and truly contributed to this. I have a large farm shed and the attic in the house overflowing, and too much furniture in the house making it cluttered. I sometimes stand there in a tizz thinking now I am older I really should sort and clear it, but somehow there is always something nicer to do. My son has reassured me by telling me not to worry about it because when I am gone he will just clear it all out. I am not quite sure that is reassuring or not. Now I think I had better make a list of some things he might not realise the value of and shouldn't chuck out. I am lucky in having a son who is self employed (internet business) because his time is flexible and he can help out when needed, at least when he is in this country. I wouldn't want to move at this stage, and feel for those of you who are having to face sorting out a house. I enjoyed reading your posts.
Mrs P. OF COURSE YOU DESERVE SOMETHING NICE, even more so because you have had it tough earlier on in your life. I don't know why your daughter thinks it is wrong to ask for help. Life is about cooperation and helping each other out. Darwin's ideas of survival of the fittest are outdated now. We apparently have about 50 trillion cells in our bodies and we survive because all those cells work harmoniously cooperating together. A good model for society as a whole I think. I suppose the fact that the majority of people decided to get vaccinated ( maybe even despite misgivings) is a good example of the cooperation model at work for the benefit of all. A book I am finding interesting is "The Biology of Belief" by Bruce Lipton.
I agree Archerfile about the last couple of years, I call it Covid apathy and we have found it difficult to reconnect with the world apart from family and a few close friends. Some good news however, we have a new grandson and hope to go up to Edinburgh to meet him at the weekend, lateral flow tests permitting.
Such interesting posts. Mrs.P. please feel free to copy out my post for your daughter. I used to make many throw away comments and remarks on how my mother got on with life, now I am older I understand her choices better, and wish I had been kinder or even just more tolerant. I too have the undeserving habit - if I buy something I like, it immediately loses its attraction, simply by being owned by me. It really is barmy and I try to stop it, but attitudes are do ingrained. I hope you had a good day, and that the lovely house in Minehead is perfect for you 🌺
Massive congrats. Cheshire Cheese to a new grandson. How wonderful. Any idea of a name yet? The covid apathy feel, is so true + realistic which is affecting many, without actually really realising it. I am one of those, which I now know and admit! Let's get positive again, with whatever it might be. It might be getting that move actually finalised, sorting cupboards etc. out, sorting family Christmas visits so all will be together again, and so on Mind you the cold wintry weather, along with the dark mornings + nights, doesn't help. I am getting up so much later than normal. It is now at 8.00am when it is light and the CH has been on for an hour.
I do hope you get to see your newborn grandson in Edinburgh at the weekend CC. My first grandchild will be 21 on Friday. Where have those years gone ?
Thank you all for those heartfelt messages and replies. I am touched and grateful for your thoughts.
Despite being in bed before ten last night I didn't sleep until 3am and was up at five. I've driven almost 200 miles today and had to keep the window open on the way home in order to stay awake and safe.
The maisonette in Minehead was absolutely wonderful. I could move in without having to lift a paintbrush or even a screwdriver. I Would love to show you all. And what a treat it would be to start a new life without needing to anticipate all the building work required. However there might, or could be, a fly in the ointment and I will have to consult with the CAB to get some advice.
I am exhausted. Lady was very good staying overnight with her best friend, and I haven't heard TA yet. I need some food and bed. Will listen to TA on sounds while in the bath.
No the opposite. I would become the freeholder for the other two leaseholders and would have to administrate the accruing sink funds, which might be viewed as earned income as I don't get a full pension !
Wow MrsP I am in awe of your 200 mile drive I could not have done it all in one day or even 2 now! Well done and on two hours sleep you are a marvel. Do so hope your maisonette works out for you!
So glad to hear you are feeling more positive Mrs P and hope with all my heart that Minehead works out for you.
And many many congratulations to Granny CC! What a wonderful early Christmas present for your whole Family. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that all goes well with the trip to Edinburgh and that there are no complications about being able to travel.
I do love this blog! Although I rarely contribute I always read with interest about shared experiences and sympathy and sound advice. So much resonates, as some of you have said. In my case, like CC I have a new grandson whom I met last week. Luckily there are no border restrictions at present with Switzerland, just forms to fill in and green passes to be shown. Also like many of you I find myself trying to fight laziness and lethargy. The advice to start small seems to work for me. i ask Alexa ( son’s Christmas present last year!) to set the timer for ten minutes and start one chore. Sure enough I end up doing more than ten minutes, once I’ve got started. In Italy they say “ Chi ben comincia ė a metà opera” ( who starts well is half way through the task”!
That’s a very apt saying Hilary! Congratulations to you too on the arrival of your grandson, may we know his name? Hopefully you will all be able to enjoy a proper Christmas this year with no restrictions, in spite of this wretched new Covid variant. Keep safe and well and enjoy your new arrival! 👶🏼 🎄
Congratulations Hilary, Pleased to hear that you have been able to see your new grandson. I don't want to be awkward but I prefer not to use real names on a public blog so won't be posting my grandson's name.
Ahoy there Spicy! Shiver me timbers! Both got an eye patch now eh. I hope yours is sorted out with a review of your medication and not a long term thing like mine. Have you got the bulging eye or just the double vision? You really have suffered this last couple of years, no wonder you get depressed. It's awful being ill but if your eye sight is altered and you can't read or watch telly very well it makes life pretty limited for entertainment. Thank goodness for the radio. I seldom read a book now, have gone off music on the radio and just listen to plays and the like.
On a different note........having a disasterous week. My changing the downstairs toilets sink tap turned into totally demolishing the sink from the wall and removing the pedastal and pipe work. Having a good think before going back to it! And.....the dining room curtain pole was dangling at one end this morning so having to re-do that. IS IT GIN O'CLOCK YET!!!!!
Definitely 'wine o'clock,' deciding whatever DIY project I am working on!
I have a cooker which the bottom oven hasn't got heat, dishwasher which doesn't lose the water and awaiting next week, when scaffolders get the three stories erected, to get builders to get guttering, soffits etc. The reason I am going to get repairs done next week is because I have to clean a very dirty oven, and get the dishwasher out and get wastepipes sorted. Just in case I can't I have a lovely domestic repairman who I will ring! PTBY Just the double vision. Considering I had too many months of stopping at home , now I can't get for a short shop as I can't drive! I listen to the TV and radio. Can just about read for about 10mins then have a break. First of all dermatology next Saturday, the Christmas tree decoration, wrapping parcels, Christmas, then Radion test on 6th Jan and endochronolical consultant on 25th January. That me sorted for the next two months! Hope your DIY gets sorted out okay! Hopefully, sometime in the Spring people who can manage it, will meet up and meet up with the two ladies with eye patches at whatever station!
I went to a nearby and small retail park today. Dec 1st and as I have done very little Christmas shopping and as it was a lovely, cold but bright day, off I went. There were many others, who also had the same idea. I was there at 10.00am and it was already busy. This small shopping area is great, as there are lots of different shops, but only main stream ones. I did well though, as there were lots of offers, many half price. It was a successful morning out. I nearly bought some Christmas wrapping paper until I suddenly remembered that, last January I bought 3 rolls in S/bury's, 25p each! I feel a job well done.
Mrs P. Good Luck. That sounds great and just what you want. I have no knowledge of leasehold/freehold and the related problems. Could a soliciter help?
Archerphile. Thanks for the eye-drop info. from a while back. I bought a new bottle from Boots own brand range, which is identical to what was prescribed at hosp. but half the price.
I download so much from Sounds these days, to listen to as + when. The only problem is to spot those which are time limited. Some are only available for 30 days, others for over a year. As I have been doing this for a while now, I am now getting suggestions as to what might interest me! The thing is, these are suitable and right. It's a bit like "big brother", perusing my choices. It's quite spooky in reallity. However I have listened to some wonderful things, with more to listen to.
I am not a fan of Alexa. A family of mine has one or somethong similar. It drives me crazy but that has to be an age thing only. They love it to get instant music, weather reports etc etc.. I have a Hive system for my CH, so perhaps I am not too different.l, after all. I can change my house heating if I am away from home so CH is on when I return back, or when I am just in bed waking early and it's cold, and don't want to get up to change the heating setting manually. I do this via my phone, as long as there is wi-fi available.
To follow up from yesterday. Very impressed with CAB local helpline. No waiting, a friendly and capable response to assess my request and a follow up call from an advisor within the hour. Following that advice, I decided to call my solicitor who also called me back promptly and immediately came up with a legal solution to my problem.
I then had an extended call with my daughter about the possibility of problems with Lady within the shared common areas of the property.
There you are, Mrs P - you are perfectly capable of being in control of a great deal more than your handbag collection. Just make sure you get help with the really big stuff. And you are not necessarily the right person to decide what you deserve - if you want it, go for it!
*** FROM PREVIOUS BLOG ***
ReplyDeleteMiriam - November 18, 2021 at 6:21 PM
It is now two days after my Covid booster, and I have suffered! I had Pfizer after 2 AZ ones, and spent today in bed, with a slight temparature, along with a drippy nose. I just felt so tired + lethargic. Still I caught up on with my subscribed listening, from Sounds..and puss cat curled up beside me.
Our pets know when we need a bit of comfort..and so help.
Cheshire Cheese - November 18, 2021 at 6:47 PM
Sorry to hear that you haven't been well since your Covid booster Miriam and hope you are feeling better soon. All 3 of ours were Pfizer which just caused sore arms for a couple of days.
Lady R - November 19, 2021 at 10:36 AM
Bad luck Miriam I hope you are beginning to feel better. I also had Pfizer for my booster following 2 X AZ I briefly had a sore heavy arm but nothing else. It appears to be the luck of the draw….
I’m sure 🐈⬛ enjoyed the extra cosy time with you 🤗
Sarnia - November 18, 2021 at 6:58 PM
My daughter was given Pfizer and the second one has resulted in Myocarditis. She is quite poorly.
Miriam - November 18, 2021 at 7:04 PM
I wish her well..
🤗
Hope that your daughter gets better soon Sarnia, it is concerning that that can be a side effect.
DeleteAnd also Miriam hope that you recover quickly.
Miriam
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear that your booster has caused a reaction.
Best to stay in bed as you have and get it over with.
I do hope you improve over the weekend.
I've not looked in for a day, and had lots of posts to read, but didn't notice until after writing responses to Sarnia......
So nice for you Sarnia to have a gardener who looks after your finances with consideration as well as your garden......... that the blog had changed.
Hello again! Been away for a few days up to Mallaig on the West Highland Line as we were both in the mood for a change of scenery. Have always wanted to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct and when we got an email from ScotRail saying that for 2 weeks all tickets to anywhere in Scotland were buy 1 get 1 free we jumped at the chance to save a few quid!
ReplyDeleteI had seen endless tv shows about the journey from Glasgow to Mallaig but to see it in the flesh was incredible. Thankfully the weather on the way up was brilliant because on the way back it was so miserable that you couldn't see further that about 200 yards for the entire 5 hour journey. Would heartily recommend it!
Sorry to hear a few of us are still feeling bleurgh - hopefully all will right itself soon. Fingers crossed for everyone!
Gary some years back on a Luxury Rail Trip weekend I experienced the ride across
Deletethe Viaduct bl**dy fantastic I agree ⭐️ 🚂
I wonder if you bought any chocolate frogs or butterbeer that came round on the tea trolley when we were there.
DeleteVery pleased that Mr GG was well enough now for you to use the opportunity to make a trip Gary.
ReplyDeleteA well earned break after the recent health problems endured by you both in different ways.
I can't see a new Archers topic blog so presume you are in the process of changing over.
And now seems a good time to thank you again for all your efforts on our behalf.
Your a STAR !
Thanks MrsP! And I am glad to report that MrGG is so much better now - apart from the stinking cold that he acquired at some point in the last 24 hours. I have ordered him to the new recliner and am going out for supplies to help him get through it. I think I remember reading somewhere that cake helps with a cold... Do you know, I don't think I've ever had a cold or flu in my life. Cursed with tonsillitis and thyroid problems but never knowingly had the sniffles. Or a headache! No idea what a headache feels like thank goodness.
DeleteOWIAS & maryellen - Ook!
ReplyDeleteOh Gary, you have achieved one of the things in my bucket list with that rail journey, it must have been wonderful for you and Mr GG to be well enough to enjoy it together. So glad to hear that you are both much better apart from the cold & headache!
ReplyDeleteI can now risk reading this blog again as I have just watched the semi-final of Bake Off and know who is going into the final next week, which I shall watch live.
ReplyDeleteThe items they are being asked to bake are astonishing and not what I should be able to do as an amateur baker. I haven’t even heard of half the things they are preparing,or many of the flavours they use. What on earth are Matcha, Yuzu etc and what do they taste like?
I am hoping either Giuseppe or Chiggs will win. I haven’t taken to Chrystelle at all and find her too over-dramatic. Chiggs was one of my son’s nicknames when at University. He worked at Sainsbury’s in the vacations, wearing the old brown uniform. He had to wear a badge with his name on it and they put his initial right up against his surname so it read “Mr Chiggs”…….a name his sister has called him ever since!
I don't mind who wins, as they are equally worthy.
DeleteMy booster reaction is now over. After yet another really good, deep nights sleep, I woke up fighting fit.
ReplyDeleteTo know that as I have now the extra protection, it was well worth it. It shows that it is working.
Sis rang last night, so excited, to tell me she has bought the turkey for Christmas!
A Rant. I am getting so fed up with the constant + daily, Christmas catologues appearing in the post (no idea how this is happening as I have tried to block junk mail), and there are now, the constant e-mails as to Black Friday Deals, others stating an extra % if buy now for Christmas, and so it goes on + on.
ReplyDeleteRant Over!
I thought that I had my privacy protected, but this is obviously not good enough.
It seems that my details have been passed on to others.
I keep a close eye on my bank account and credit score, to spot anything untoward.
PS My credit score is a free of charge site.
We opted not to have our details in the general directory, only the limited one, so it's not that much of a problem, Unfortunately, many magazines such as Gardener's World are only small cogs in the much bigger wheel of a parent company. Ordering from YouGarden automatically brings catalogues from Scott's of Stow and House of Bath has been taken over by Wilson's, and so they proliferate. Once I've looked at all the pictures of things I don't want while drinking my coffee, mine just go straight into re-cycling.
ReplyDeleteI once ordered some bulbs from Spaldings. For the next several years I was a 'valued customer' and got bombarded with catalogues. In the end I got a black felt-tip and wrote on the envelope, 'Garden has been dug up and concreted over. Return to sender.' It did the trick : )
DeleteMy parents were 'valued customers' of Reader's Digest for years. They never once bought anything, they simply sent in the prize draw entries. (They never once won anything either, so I suppose it was honours even!)
Recently I've been receiving mailshots from a company offering 'no-fuss' cremations, ie, the body is taken away and 'processed' without any further family involvement so they can party to celebrate the life without getting involved in all that grieving stuff. Apparently this is what a lot of people want, but to me it is appallingly unhealthy and likely to store up emotional difficulties for the future. I rang the company and told them so, and the communications ceased.
DeleteSmall thought: Black Friday must actually be the longest day because it seems to last a week.
ReplyDeleteOur Friday evening was spent at the Christmas Trail at Dunham Massey today. We had two attempts last year both cancelled because of lockdowns so we were pleased to finally make it.
ReplyDeleteGoing back to the catalogues through the post issue: they rely on people like me who love to trawl through these in the winter. Presumably I have shown an interest in that product at some time so I can see why they think I might be a likely customer. However there should be a cut off point of one or two years if no more orders come through. I have this problem on line and am inundated with product and sales news every day. It is easy to delete and I believe, in the small print, there is a link to stop them completely.
ReplyDeleteBlock the address, Soz.
ReplyDeleteI had a mountain of ironing to do, which was done watching the last episode of the last series, of Endeavor.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed it, but was a mis-match of a couple of Agatha Christie S/L's and not a true Morse type riddle + puzzle. Still it was intriguing, and got my brain cells working. I got a bit of the plot, but the rest was beyond me, as a bit too OTT.
I had a mountain of ironing once. Until it became an avalanche : (
DeleteTemparature here, is already dropping sharply and getting very cool and chilly.
ReplyDeleteThe cold grip, seems to be starting..❄🔥
The 3 light bulbs in my landing light, have all just blown together!
ReplyDeleteI have checked the trip switches, which look OK.
I have no spares, so to buy more is a neccesity tommorow. If my local hardware shop doesn't have them, then I will have to wait until Monday, to go to the perfect place, I know. This is more of an electrcal place for the trades, but they will serve the public as well.
I have my electrics on my homecare service, + a fire alarm is close by. As such, I am not too concerned, well just yet.
This is one of those times that, I don't like being an individual home-owner, as the bathroom bulb has gone as well. All the bedroom lights, which are on the same circuit, are working fine. It's just a mystery...
DeleteMiriam
DeleteI think there is some strange ' law ' or perhaps a language between light bulbs.
I have two, one over the stairs and one in the upper hallway, matching lights with a bulb that unscrews with the light bulb tucked inside. ( sorry, not well described ) the one in the hall I can reach on steps, but the one over the stairs I cannot reach and have to wait until a tall person comes into the house.
As soon as one is replaced the other one seems to go within ten days.
Last week they both went within two days of each other.
No light at all now !
I'm as sorry for you as I am for myself !
Does anyone else watch Countdown?
ReplyDeleteMr A and I have been very regular viewers since the first edition was broadcast on the night of Channel 4’s opening.
We record the lunchtime programme and watch it later in the afternoon with a cup of tea, it has become a daily ritual.
However we have been very unimpressed by Anne Robinson as the new presenter and find her often rude and sarcastic to competitors and difficult to watch. She seems to have no empathy with anyone on the show and asks very intrusive questions of the guests in dictionary corner.
We now read that there is a feud going on between her and Rachel Riley, the Maths genius who has just given birth to her second baby and, though still on screen in recorded episodes, will be on maternity leave until the new year.
I would love to know if there are any other Countdown fans amongst us and what you feel about the situation and what is happening on such a well-loved television quiz.
Archerphile- as you probably remember I don't watch television, but I do know about Anne Robinson and what a very rude, sarcastic person she is as well as apparently lacking any empathy. What I understand is that this is her style and has been forever.
ReplyDeleteShe was criticised for precisely this over many years when on her previous programme
(Forgotten the name) and I heard an interview with her when it was announced that she would be joining Countdown, and this was discussed.
Presumably the producers knew what they were getting when they signed her up. Perhaps they wanted to shake things up ?
Sounds like they have !
Previously on ' The Weakest Link '
DeleteFancy being proud to be known as the 'Queen of Mean'. I've heard her claim that she is really quite soft and fluffy underneath, although she didn't specify how far down that was.
ReplyDeleteAgreed re light bulbs, Mrs P (yesterday, 11.44). I'm constantly irritated by their ability to render me helpless. Of course, I could decide to be pig-headed like my elder sister and refuse to accept that reaching up to change a bulb while standing on something is no longer within my capacity, but that would land me in a worse pickle than I'm in already. As it is, having forgotten to ask my son to put a new one in my bedroom I'll have to do without until his next visit, hopefully in December.
ReplyDeleteSarnia - your words bring comfort, knowing one is not alone with these difficulties.
DeleteHope you get some light in your bedroom soon.
Standing on or even climbing up a short step ladder, and especially in getting down, is in itself challenging now.
Damned Covid has stripped me of so much confidence, and I do realise that I am not alone of course.
I've never been much good with light bulbs, Mrs P, due mainly I think to lack of height. They've always made me nervous in case they suddenly light up when inserted because no one can remember whether the switch was on or off. On the rare occasions when I seemed to have got it right, the wretched thing has fallen out several days later and fused everything, leaving me back in the doghouse where I used to belong.
ReplyDeleteElectric problems are continuing, but it's not just me. Our power supply is reduced, for some as yet, unknown reason. My tea took twice as long to cook, and my HDD recorder (whilst recording something) flashed up a message - recording failed due to low power. Also my intertent keeps failing, on and off. Think that there is a cable problem, close by.
ReplyDeleteStill at least no power cut
OMiaS and I have just man-handled a 6ft bookcase up the stairs! Managed not to break any bones or lightbulbs in the process : )
ReplyDeleteAnnoyingly, it's 1cm too wide to fit next to the window - we don't think the Diocese would be happy about me removing the radiator to squeeze it in. But fortunately it can go against the other wall so all is well.
Shouldn't that be 'person-handled'? :}
ReplyDeleteI may have the body of a weak and feeble woman but I have the weight and stubborness of a man ; )
DeleteMuch is being made of a potential shortage of Christmas gifts, especially the wildly expensive franchise toys which children can't live without these days, but I've discovered a dearth of items which is much more fundamental.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if the gentlemen are experiencing a similar difficulty, but in the local Sainsbury's, (still the only store to which I have access) there is a lamentable lack of underwear in the size and type that real people wear. All that seems to be available is styles I've never heard of in a size 8 and which look like the staple of a pole-dancer's wardrobe.
😆😁😀 I know what you mean Sarnia, some of them wouldn't make an adequate hankie....
DeleteWinter has arrived, as I was scraping frost/ice off car at 8.00am, as needed an early start.
ReplyDeleteAs I mentioned a while ago, I bought new bedding, a while back. The duvet is a pure delight, lightweight and so warm and snuggly. It keeps me normal (if that is possible), so do not get too hot, nor feel any cold.
Mind you my HWB of pusscat, curled up beside me, helps. 😺
Brrrr Miriam that was early and not even shopping day 🤔
DeleteThank-you, Mistral (I think it was you), for the nod to The Latvian Locum.
ReplyDeleteI thoroughly enjoyed both series, as they were both light-hearted, yet interesting at the same time.
Now for the latest Charles Paris mystery....I still have 16days left to listen.
It is strange with Sounds, in that some series are only available for 30 days, yet others can be listened to for over a year.
No Miriam, it wasn't me, but I did enjoy the series when it was on. My favourite series is the Katherine Jakeways one about a couple who meet on a train, I think it's called 'The train now departing', there are four plays in the series.
DeleteAnother series I so enjoyed, but just cannot find what it was called, was about a care worker and the 15 minute allocated slots per visit.
DeleteIt was funny but meaningful..
Flying Visits: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00075hw
Deleteand Where This Service Will Depart: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0005289
John Finnemore's Penguin Diplomacy is back on at 11.30 today. Well worth a listen if you've never heard it. And definitely worth a re-listen if you have : )
I was feeling pretty smug about my Xmas preparations, I stirred my pudding on Sunday and planned to cook them today, having been able to track down the necessary part to bring my venerable (35 year old) pressure cooker back to life. I weighed the larger pud and put it into the pressure cooker with the appropriate amount of water. It is several years since I bothered to make my pudding and for quite a lot of the time I had everything bubbling rather too vigorously. Consequently when I opened the pressure cooker it had very nearly boiled dry, unfortunately I was using a plastic bowl which had melted and fused itself to trivet…..big oops and a few choice Anglo-Saxon expletives.
ReplyDeleteIn cleaning the trivet I managed to cut three fingers……. Such is life. Fortunately I still have the smaller pudding which will probably suffice, and a recipe for Xmas pudding soufflé which I can use the salvaged remains in so not a total disaster ( and the pudding tastes good, I checked 😋)
Oh, I feel for you.
DeleteI also am a lover of making a Christmas Pudding I do mine in a steamer, on the hob in an earthenware bowl, which I bought just for this event.
There is still time to try again.
The slow cooker is another good method to use. I used to cook mine overnight. This year am having bought ones but made gluten free ones last year which actually were nice and much lighter than normal ones! I am working on gluten free puff pastry as I would like to do a Beef Wellington on the day. So far tried Jusrol which is appalling, one home attempt which was better than Jusrol. It didn’t puff as much as normal puff pastry but I think I may need to accept that with gf. However, I am still experimenting!
DeleteKP - so sorry about your lost pudding, but more so about your fingers.
DeleteI do hope the damage is not too serious.
I haven't made Christmas puddings for decades, nor have I cooked a Christmas dinner, but I did buy, from a smal catering outfit way back in the seventies, a wonderful steamer which I always enjoyed using at Christmas. It can accommodate a C'mas Pudding and the vegetables for the day, on a top layer with three containers.
Haven't used it for many years and wonder if I ever will again.
I haven't made a Christmas pudding for years, bought ones taste better than mine. I always make a cake and I made 3 dozen mince pies at the weekend, definitely nicer than bought ones.
DeleteI never bake a Christmas cake, as it always seems to be dry, in spite of feeding it. I buy one now, which is must tastier.
DeleteHow different we all are.
I always soak the fruit in brandy and orange juice for at least 24hrs Miriam, I think that helps to make it moist.
DeleteThe second pudding has been cooked without incident,
ReplyDeleteMrs P. don’t worry, the cuts on my fingers were superficial, I just tend to leak rather.
I never bother to make a Christmas cake as I don’t like it, but I do buy stollen and panatonne. I am tempted to try y hand at making the latter this year although I have bought one to be on the safe side.
Talking about cooking, did everyone see the final of Bake Off last night?
ReplyDeleteI won’t mention who won, in case anyone hasn’t seen it yet, but I was delighted with the winner, whom I had marked as a likely candidate from the start.
It was a really heartwarming prize giving and I even got Mr A to watch for once!
There was no way I was going to risk finding out by accident this morning, so he had no choice - but he enjoyed the show
They all seemed such a friendly bunch of contestants this year, no dramas or histrionics, helping each other out and so talented. Looking forward to next year’s already.
Yes we watched it Archerfile. I've enjoyed this year's competition and agree about the contestants. I think any of the last four were worthy winners.
DeleteI think it is lovely that the winner (trying not to mention the name!) and elderly dad are going to create a cookery book of their family recipes together.
DeleteYes, I watched Bake off last night, I agree that they have been a really good bunch this year, the top four were all amazing and choosing the winner must have been hard for the judges, but I was happy with the final result.
ReplyDeleteI backed the winner too.
ReplyDeleteMe too! Very happy with the result. Do you watch An Extra Slice on Friday? Probably not everyone’s cup of tea but looking forward to seeing the three this week.
DeleteHello Ev, I used to, but it got a bit same-y, and I got tired of Jo Brand's fat jokes.
DeleteWell I’m in a right peed off mood tonight. Couldn’t be bothered with tea so we’ve had a toasted cheese sarni. Now going to watch Guy Martin from the other night. He usually perks me up….think he’s fab.
ReplyDeleteWe had meatballs in tomato sauce with pasta. A very easy meal as I don’t do complicated nowadays! Katy has had a busy week so I am watch on stop on but on Thursdays we have a takeaway so a rest tomorrow! Have started a clear out of the store cupboard which used to be a toilet before we moved it to the bathroom which is opposite the bedroom. It is all shelved and I’m afraid things get chucked in there so a periodic sort out is required! It’s amazing what you find! Today an unopened peanut butter which expired in 2020. I blame lockdown!!
DeletePtby hope you are feeling better. These moody days can knock you for six.
I was using up the remains of our roast chicken from. Sunday.
ReplyDeleteIt was chicken curry on Monday
Chicken & tomato macaroni bake on Tuesday
And chicken gougère tonight - my favourite!
I ate out, son visiting from Jersey, sorting out own stuff in the attic as I plan to move next year. He is the last one to claim all his old treasure/junk.
ReplyDeleteHaving a very nice week, but eating too much, heating on too much, but making the most of it because the builder and electrician are coming on 1/12, and I am moving out until the worst is over. Been trying to get this sorted since April.
Cancelled Christmas here and foisted myself onto Devon daughter, so apart from an uninhabitable house for a week or two, I'm hoping for a relaxing stress-free time. Have now also retired and never been so busy.
Looking forward to 2022 and better times ahead, fingers crossed.
And I hope so for you too, Mistral.
DeleteIn fact I hope the same for us all!
Thank you Archerphile, I too hope things pick up for everyone next year. I don't say 'go back to normal', because I'm not sure it was better, but I think adapt and change and accept are my key words for the next phase of my life.
DeleteI wish my youngest was in a position to sort out and move her stuff Mistral.
DeleteI don't blame you for moving out when your builders move in. We recently replaced our bathroom and downstairs cloakroom and that was bad enough.
We're currently on tenterhooks awaiting arrival of new grandchild, due yesterday.
As others have said, I also thought the GBBO Final was wonderful. It was nail-biting, yet enjoyable both at the same time. I would have been happy as to, which of them one. They were all worthy winners, to me.
ReplyDeleteStill, I am now into Masterchef, The Professionals. I love how some contestants are so cocky, some so humble, then to just see how they actually do.
I am still not fully normal, but I am now adapting fast to the new normality.
Doctors on Wednesday, did an episode based on this. It was so very realistic and true.
It is worth watching, as it was a "one-off" episode, which addressed a topic that some are still going through.
DeleteI went to a new local + wonderful Co-op today, just for a look. I was the only one wearing a mask! Mind you it wasn't busy.
Let's hope this predicted weekend storm, is not as predicted.
ReplyDeleteFamily nearby are so angry, as the usual Saturday Farmers market, in the Cheshire town they live in, has already been cancelled, due to the impending storm. This was the last one before Christmas, so many stall-holders will lose out, as will their customers. This is that the produce wanted, cannot be bought, and livelihoods, of the merchants will be affected, due to loss of income.
This storm might not just happen, as predicted, as to its intensity and severity.
Family wanted to buy farm fresh reared pork, beef, chicken, etc. direct from the producers, to last for the next month. This will now not happen, sadly.
DeleteWhat a shame Miriam.
ReplyDeleteI am hoping my son and his partner manage to fly from Newcastle to Jersey in the eye of the storm....flight at 6p.m. tomorrow.
Big celebration day today. After nearly 5 months our shed finally arrived and was erected.
ReplyDeleteHad a good afternoon filling it with usual shed kelt.
Going to have a gin to celebrate.
That deserves two Gins!!
DeleteWhere has everyone gone?
ReplyDeleteOn previous days when I have looked in, there have been so many interesting posts to read.
I so hope that this is due to the fact that you are all now enjoying life to the full, with family + friends, and so it should be at last.
Mrs P. Have you found your new home yet?
I have had the most peculiar experience recently. Some of my tins of tonic water have emptied themselves with no apparent breach in the tins. I submerged the unopened but empty tins in water, no bubbles, and a sticky residue on the shelf. All very odd. It has happened with two different brands, all tins within use-by dates and in the fridge & at room temperature. Has anyone else ever had this happen?
ReplyDeleteSpooky!!! Never heard of such a thing.
DeleteOooohhh, I would find the gin quickly and use up any tins you have left. Really weird.
DeleteHope everyone is keeping safe in this storm. We’ve woken to the 6ft fence between us and next door being down. It’s next doors fence so hopefully he’ll sort someone to fix it.
ReplyDeleteThankfully the new shed is still standing. Phew!
Nothing much to say, Miriam. More new realisations to come to terms with, and still trying to work out how to organise all the extra tasks in ways which can accommodate my limited mobility. Also fighting hangover from lockdown lethargy and finding energy to cope with being back at work.
ReplyDeleteSon and partners flight cancelled yesterday, and roof from overnight hotel blown off (partially).
ReplyDeleteSnow here, greenhouse down, roof felt off the shed, and I've got to start pulling kitchen cupboards out before the builder starts on Weds. All extremely horrible.
And cold.
ReplyDeleteLooks like we got off lightly in the storm, a few pots and a couple of garden chairs blown over. Woke up to a covering of snow this morning.
ReplyDeletePostponed my trip to Taunton ( cider and cricket ! ) today due to expectation of bad weather and I'm glad I did.
ReplyDeleteNo damage for me, but it is very cold and Lady will be getting the briefest of walks today.
Still spending much of each day on Rightmove and researching different small towns.
Sarnia, I sympathise with your problems, I have very similar and struggle with so much.
Hello All
ReplyDeleteMy reason for not contributing much recently is that it’s become such a pain trying to get anything to publish with my iPad. Takes ages deleting history several times, having to open a new tab and log in all over again. I’d love to know how you are getting on with your new iPad,
Mrs P and whether you have problems with OS 14 which seems to be the cause?
Woke up to horizontal snow this morning, settled for a brief while but now turned to rain and strong winds. Hope all are safe, especially our Scotland dwellers, with no structural damage to houses.
Bit concerned this new Omicron variant could complicate our visit to France on 20th Dec, but I suppose anything can happen at short notice these days and we’ll just have to deal with it at the time.
Keep warm and safe everyone!
You were my first thought Archerphile 🤞🏼🎄
DeleteArcherphile - I'm not really using my new IPad yet.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter has set up Rightmove alerts on it, and I am (very) slowly sending out my new email address.
My greatest problem is opening it.
When my I went with daughter to Apple to set it up, the security now is for fingertip recognition. This took quite some time, whereby I had to put my finger tip onto the pad over and over again for it to recognise all the lines.
However it's not working.
I have to offer my finger over and over again without any result.
Eventually it tells me that it doesn't recognise my fingerprint, but then does offer the alternative of my security pass number, which is the same as previously.
This then works, but the frustration of having to go through this rigmarole each time is off putting.
I hope that at some point I can bypass this security option, but it will mean yet another trip to Apple in Bath.
Sorry but OS14 means nothing to me.
Can you explain ?
A wild night with the strong winds (an amber warning) and horizontal rain, but no snow. Damage is minimal here, as compared to else-where in the country. There are plenty of houses with fence panels and gates down, plus lots of missing tiles on many roofs. The worst was a nearby neighbour, as a small tree in his next door garden, crashed into his garden flattening 2 fence panels.
ReplyDeleteI have no damage at all, except for debris blown into garden. Phew!
I cannot recall a wind like that, which was quite frightening in the small, wee hours.
I hope all are staying safe, and any damage is minimal, only garden related not the comfy, warm home.
Big Sis in N.Wales still has no elecricity, and niece in east cheshire, lost the roof of the summer house.
I hope all are safe and well
PS It is still quite windy, but the skies are clear, so much so the temp. is dropping fast and frost is already starting to form!
DeleteI wish all a much safer night and if like me, a better nights sleep.
ReplyDeleteMy home was so cold this morning, as the strong wind was blowing the cat flap open during the night, and I am sort of open plan. I didn't lock it for 2 reasons:- not sure if a strong gust would break the locking device, and I didn't want to prevent Puss Cat from going out, if she dared.
She must have, or has great control! 😽
Don't know how PtbY will be faring as far as the damage the gale may have caused, Yorkshire appears to be badly hit.
ReplyDeleteMiriam has described some problems in Cheshire along with Mistral and CC.
I wish you all well.
My daughter was driving to York from Bath for friends get together, but no reports so far. I don't envy her the drive.
Here in my part of Gloucestershire it's very cold and there was a smattering of snow, but only a few branches of trees down in the churchyard for Lady's reduced walk today.
I wish all well.
Gary, have you lost electrical power ?
My new side gate fell off the house yesterday, but nothing to do with the wind, it just landed on me when I tried to lock it. Inadequate attachment to the wall for a much heavier gate than before. I'm hoping the inclement weather keeps the local juvenile criminal fraternity at home glued to their video games until C can come to fix it, as access to the rear of the house is visible to all..
ReplyDeleteHope you are able to get it fixed very soon Sarnia.
DeleteIn the meantime put some empty tin cans strategically placed along the path.
There's a length of coiled hose all the way down the side path.
ReplyDeleteJust got a message from my son, now back in Jersey after a 26 hour delay. I am amazed, trees down here, front fence,8' high snapped posts at the bottom and blocked the public footpath alley, I had to put orange carrier bags and gaffer tape all over it to warn pedestrians and not take their eyes out with strategically placed nails. Got a couple of handy men to shift it before dark, so now have a decking area instead of a front garden!
ReplyDeleteI like a bit of weather though, and a bit of damage is nothing compared to loss of life, the news this week has been horrible.
Mrs P, re iPads.
ReplyDeleteiOS 14 is the name of the operating system an iPad or phone is working on. They update it about once a year and each time it adds new features and ways of doing things. When they introduced iOS14 about 18 months ago it became very difficult to use our blogs. For some reason it doesn’t work well with the Google blog spot and I have to perform all sorts of actions to put a comment on here though I can read everybody else’s.
I still have an old iPod which runs on iOS 12 which is works OK with our blogs but it is tiny and has a very small keypad which I find tricky to use.
I bought a new iphone earlier this year ( also works on iOS14) and, like you, spent ages setting up my fingerprint for quick and secure access. But, again like you, I find it doesn’t work. So I don’t even bother trying to use it now, I just use my password code for quick access.
I read that there is now iOS15 available and you can update your Apple device by downloading it. But I am very reluctant to do do as it will alter things again, have lots of new features I will probably never use and a. different looking homepage. I sometimes think they keep updating things just because they can and it’s not really necessary!
My new phone (insisted upon by son) has fingerprint recognition, although it can be very choosy as to whether it will or won't. If I've applied my finger at the wrong angle, just washed my hands, been gardening or doing just about anything that adds a smidgeon of difference to the original print, recognition says 'No!' After nearly 70 years at keyboards of one sort or another I haven't much left in the way of fingerprints anyway, so I suppose the poor thing hasn't much to go on.
ReplyDeleteI often wonder how it would behave in a real emergency.
Woken to a quiet morning. Thank goodness no wind. Found the garage roof leaking in two places last night…..yet another job for next year….and the fence down. That’s all we seemed to have suffered.
ReplyDeleteDogs didn’t go out yesterday. Daphne was a bit hyper last night. She’s going for a big walk today!!!
Ditto here.
DeleteNo wind.
And Lady had the minimum of a walk yesterday.
Better today.
No wind up here either, but plenty of snow, beautiful, looking forward to taking the dog out, she loves it.
ReplyDeleteBuddy and Dudley didn’t go out yesterday as they don’t do strong wind! It was also bitterly cold. Today is much brighter and they had their long walk at Firestone Copse. Dudley prefers to stay at home reposing on a cushion but Buddy like Daphne gets seriously hyper! We haven’t had any damage at home apart from my notice on the post box about depositing post and circulars in there blew off so I need to put it back on. If post is put through the door, Dudley demolishes it so post box very necessary! Nowadays we have a motley crew of post persons where a few years ago you could get to know your post man or lady. It is sad and is this progress?😉🐾🐾🐶
DeleteWhy not put one of those wire collection baskets, on the inside?
DeleteDon't do an outside post box. I have read so much, about stealing posts from these, cloning personal details, leading to many things, even houses being sold without the true owner knowing nothing.
I had a regular postie for years. Now I also have a motley crew. In their defence, they do a great job and we are lucky that our post is still delievered, to our homes, on a daily basis.
DeleteMy letter box on door is low down so a wire basket would not deter Dudley who would probably pull an envelope out anyway!
DeleteMy postman hates dogs and started putting D or even DD on my letters. (Dog/Dangerous Dog). All my dogs live the postman and bring me the letters, sometimes a bit chewed, but they all seemed to think it was a great game.
ReplyDeleteThis (in my view, silly) man finally threatened to stop my deliveries, and apparently mentioned me every week at his health and safety meeting. I finally gave in and ordered a very nice outdoor post box from a forge in Yorkshire, it took them 6 weeks to make and send, which enraged the man who demanded an explanation of why I didn't use Amazon Prime?
He didn't like my explanation either.
Anyway, the thing is installed and I am going to take it down tomorrow, because with no fencing in place, everybody going up and down the alley could just put their hands in and steal my post.
I expect to be banned.
Can't have an indoor wire basket because the dog could catch her teeth and claws in it, too risky.
DeleteI had snow falling today! It was quite heavy at times, but the ground was far too wet for it to stick.
ReplyDeleteCar has a slight covering on it, which is now freezing solid ❄
Snow for me, is so very unusual.
It snowed here all afternoon and it has stuck. It's now freezing so our drive, which is on a slope, will be slippery in the morning.
DeleteTo get snow with me is very unusual, but it also means that you get it much worse. My drive also has a slope, so when it is snowy/icy, car is parked much further up, almost on the pavement!
DeleteTrying again ......
ReplyDeleteWe went to Haresfield today.
Lots of rabbit smells but no sightings today.
Pathetic snowflakes hardly touched Ladys coat, and not as bitterly cold as yesterday.
Wrote a piece about a problem and asking for advice, but it didn't publish.
Archerphile will know how I feel. Might try again later.
And Archerphile, ( and Sarnia ) it's comforting to discover that I'm not alone in opening my new IPad with fingertip recognition. I have noticed that after several attempts it offers me the alternative of my password.
Is it reasonable to assume that eventually the device gives up and accepts the password option without the fingertip one ?
We all appear to be having posting problems!
ReplyDeleteA smattering of snow here in Hampshire this evening, Archerphile may have had more her way even though we are not so far apart.
We had a superb roast dinner today at the home of our neighbours daughter it was Mr neighbours birthday yesterday so to ensure we could all have a celebratory drink I organised taxis for the few miles we needed to cover. Sometime since I/we have done so the treat meant I could have a drink but the meter certainly knows how to spin around I have to say 🤣 but even though the outward bound journey was a little late due to the booked vehicle hitting gridlock on its way returning from a trip to Winchester which meant that the boss had to be called upon to take over at last minute it was worth it!
A very light dusting in my corner of Hampshire, enough to look pretty but not make driving too difficult 🤞
ReplyDeleteLovely day yesterday, MrNuts and I went to Chichester to see Susie Dent and Giles Brandreth preceded by lunch at the on-site restaurant.
Mask compliance in the theatre was really high, 90+% compared to the sub50% we have seen on our last few outings.
I do hope that people’s Xmas plans aren’t too disrupted, I am hoping to meet up with my siblings and any of our off-spring who care to join us oldies. Depending on whether certain arguments have been put to bed this may be one large or two smaller get togethers, the problem is between one of my sisters and my sister-in-law but with luck they are ready to move on and continue their long standing friendship. My sister introduced SinL to my brother.
WEATHER WARNING
ReplyDeleteSOUTHERNERS , DO NOT TRAVEL UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY.
NORTHERNERS, YOU MAY NEED A COAT. ,
Too right!! Especially in Newcastle. Lol
Delete😂🤣😂
DeleteCheeky!
DeleteYes, Lady R, woken up to a proper covering of snow over the garden this morning, it looks just like a Christmas card! Very pretty but very cold.
ReplyDeleteAnd Mrs P, regarding fingertip access to your iPad- I think you are right, after a while the device seems to give up asking for a fingerprint and is happy with the password code number.
And KP - we very much envy your evening with Susie Dent ( not so much Gyles Brandreth though). She is one of our favourite experts and I have several of her books.
We always used to feel that when GB was a dictionary corner guest on Coundown he used to be over familiar with her, leaning over her a lot and ‘invading her space’. It made me cringe but perhaps he is better behaved these days.
I’d love to know what the evening consisted of, I’m sure it must have been very interesting.
Had my booster jab at last. The GP practice could only offer me appointments at surgeries too far away for me to get to. Yesterday a friend had an appointment at Boots after morning service, so they took me with them and mine was done as well. They were using Moderna that day, so I've been able to put my daughter's mind at rest.
ReplyDeleteGood news Sarnia. Wonder if we shall all have to have a new, different c
DeleteVaccine when they sort Omicron out.
By the way, I was always taught to pronounce that Greek letter as OH-micron, not
OM-icron as all the newsreaders are saying. Does anyone agree with me? I am finding it very irritating!
Wonder if we ever get to Omega they will mispronounce that too. 😄
On looking out this morning, it was as expected - white. Not snow as such, but a very heavy frost, along with a smattering of frozen snow on cars, roofs, lawns, + hedges.
ReplyDeleteIt finally melted mid-morning.
Neice + partner are concerned today. His parents from Mauritus are due to land at Heathrow in 11days time. With the ever changing rules re tests + self-isolation, this trip might not know happen. It is too early to know, though. Partner so wants to see his parents again, after a 3 years separation, as do their grandkids.
Archerphile must be in the same situation.
🤞🤞Things can be sorted.
Oh, AP, pronunciations are always changing. The problem is that our original source wasn't necessarily right in the first place.
ReplyDeleteBack in 2014 we went on a cruise which more or less followed the routes taken by the disciples in the first century, visiting sites in Greece and Turkey like Troy and Philippi. One such place in Turkey was pronounced by everyone around us, including the Turkish guide, as Kusha-dassi, with a cedilla under the first 's', producing the 'sh' sound.
A friend whose children had both visited the place on a school cruise many years ago, kept correcting me. The teachers on the cruise had taught that it should be pronounced Kuss- Addassy, and nothing could persuade her that the teachers had been wrong, even the fact that the local population didn't call it that!
This is a lady who badly needs always to be in the right.
Apparently the BBC pronunciation department have said that OM-icron is correct Archerfile. I always thought the same as you.
ReplyDeleteTrollope's Sir Omicron Pie was pronounced in the BBC series with a 'me', not an 'I' in the middle.
DeleteBut there seems to be a fair bit of discussion on the internet. The NY Times article I've just found says that classical Greek would have been close to 'me'. OMiaS studied New Testament Greek and tells me it's O-mi-cron. NY Times article quotes our esteemd PM saying 'OH-my-kraan.'
Of course, me-cro-metres would sound as silly as my-lli-metres, so I guess we'll just have to put up with a bit of inconsistency ; )
I seem to remember that even Star Trek referred to a planet called OH-micron Theta! How could it be that Gene Rodenberry was also misinformed?
ReplyDeleteHas anyone else had a bad reaction to the Moderna booster? I had it last Thursday afternoon and by Friday morning I felt as though I had been knocked for six, shaking like a leaf and feeling cold even though in a warm room, bad headache and aching body and so drained and tired I have spent most of the time since in bed resting. The physical things are easing up now but I am still totally drained of energy. The Astra zeneca only resulted in a mildly sore arm. I feel so sorry for people who live, and cope with things, alone.
ReplyDeleteMuch like me with my booster Janice, although I has vomiting and diarrhoea for four hours which started four hours after my injection.
DeleteCertainly drained, for two weeks, but not an achy body.
Pretty sure mine was to do with the combination of flue and Covid within three days. But mine was not Moderna.
I suppose that it's inevitable that some of us will have a bad reaction.
Fortunately most don't.
I feel for you !
Thanks Mrs P. It helps to know that reactions have been experienced by others.
DeleteArcherphile I always(don't use the word often) pronounce omega as oh me gah.
ReplyDeleteI don't know if that is the correct pronunciation but I am too old to change now.
What about Pisces.?
I pronounce that as piss (sorry ) caze not pie seas .
Ah, a Latin scholar. As a choir leader I had an awful struggle with 'church' Latin. I know it sounds better when sung, but my assorted host of wildly eccentric Latin teachers would have had a corporate fit.
DeleteYes, Janice, I had my Moderna booster yesterday and today has been really rubbish: big, hard swollen arm, splitting headache, swimmy head, worn out, aching limbs and feeling generally shivery and fluey. Also slightly queasy from time to time and don't really feel like eating. Slept all the afternoon and am now on my way back to bed. Me! At 11.30! That's when you know something's not right! AZ was just a bit of a headache and heavy legs for a couple of days.
ReplyDeleteJanice and Sarnia, hope you both feel much better soon. My son had moderna for his second vaccine, similar to your symptoms.
ReplyDeleteIt just goes on and on.
I now think we must have been very lucky to have had Pfizer for all 3 of our vaccinations rather than a mixture. Mr A had no reactions after any of them and I just had the swollen, itchy arm problem but did not actually feel as unwell as some of you.
ReplyDeleteAll the grandchildren (aged14 - 23) had Moderna jabs but had no after effects.
Seems to be the luck of the draw!
I too had all three Pfizer jabs. I had sore arm, in the immediate vicinity of the jab on left arm, which caused sleeping problems on the first night of the first injection. However I had the second jab on the right arm and apart from some tenderness on the spot itself I had no reactions at all. For the booster jab I had absolutely nothing!
DeleteMy booster was Pfizer following two AZ jabs, and I just had a slightly heavy arm for a few hours afterwards. After my first AZ had an increased temp and felt off for a day and nothing after the second AZ.
DeleteI do not know anyone who has had the Moderma vac or booster- but feeling for our blogger friends who have (or have had) unpleasant side effects from it.
I had Pfizer for all three. Katy had AZ for first two and Pfizer booster. Neither of us had any after effects, not even a sore arm. Yes, it is the luck of the draw and I wonder whether those of us who had these post vaccine problems would have been very seriously ill if they had been infected with the virus without vaccines. The problem is that each of us have no knowledge beforehand of the consequences for us. Hoping that Janice, Sarnia or other sufferers feel better now and thinking of you.
ReplyDeleteI'm recommended not to have Pfizer as it gave my daughter myocarditis and her 'portfolio' of allergy problems is very similar to mine.
DeleteWe'll be a pair, PtbY, as I too have double vision at the moment because of Thyroid problems! I suspect it's the tablets I have been taken for the bullous Pemaphagoid for about 2 years, so immuinity is barely existant which has sent my thyroid into overdrive instead of being under-performing.
ReplyDeleteTrouble is I can't drive and have to wear eye patch if there is anything I watch on TV! (Good job that two sons have pirate outfits!)
I have a radion test on 6th January and a phone appontment with consultant on 28th so I'll just have to put up with it. Cooking should be fun!
Maybe the dermatologist, who I am seeing on Saturday, has better announcement though the blisters are on my legs again.
I am very depressed much of the time but sons, daughter and daughter-in-laws cheer me up as well as siblings.
Knitting for shawl for niece is now going well, now I have remembered the pattern, without looking at booklet at all times! Trouble is I do about 4 rows then have a couple of days for a break! Trouble is concentration!
Finally Boots have upset me as one young pharmacist accused me of having too many pills! I did say, with three consultants and one GP prescribing pills that I was quite ill!
Spicy I am angry and disgusted regarding the comment made to you by the young Pharmacist in Boots! I’m quite sure you would love not to be in the situation you find yourself in and she should realise this. (I am assuming she did not say what she did to sympathise with you for being in such a situation?)
DeleteSpicy, you must have felt very upset by that pharmacists comment.
DeleteBeing young, she or he would be well aware, - perhaps more so than an older professional, due to being closer to training - of the dangers of over medication.
And perhaps, not too well versed in diplomacy yet.
I do hope for your sake that each of your different consultants plus your GP do pay attention to the consequences of mixing medications.
But of course it's the pharmacist who is the senior professional where drugs are concerned.
I wonder what Miriam will have to say about your experience ?
Sympathies to all feeling wrung out or worse due to the booster, and hopes that better days will come soon.
Poor Spicey, I feel ashamed at my dissatisfaction with my own minor health complaints. Thank you everyone, I am feeling better this morning, although now I've got dressed I realise, not quite as much as I thought I was. Washed out is the word, Janice. I will take the day cautiously
ReplyDeleteNo, no, no! Most times I am happy and have several people who keep me in their thoughts. Most times when I am in company I have a happy time!
DeleteIt's just when I am alone my thoughts wander and fix on bad times!
1)Have a magazine or a book to read. I get lost in the pages and be a Viking (Bernard Cornwell), fantasy (Terry Pratchett) and any of my old favourites (Jane Austin, Harper Lee and detective stories)
2)Look at the weather and if blowy say 'Good day for washing, rainy, 'Well the garden needs it', sunshine - warmth and freshness.
3)Have a clear out of clothes, gifts not used, trinkets not liked etc.
I too had to take one day at a time due to being depressed. Do a bit at a time and gradually build up! Sometimes when children were away I didn't get dressed at all!
Take care.
Oh poor Spicey, you have so many challenges healthwise. I hope for much better times ahead for you. 💐
DeleteOoh, I can now access the blog on my phone, although without the ident. I now understand the complaints about how far it is to scroll down, so I think the laptop will still be my instrument of preference!
ReplyDeleteThat was Sarnia, please don't delete me.
ReplyDeleteI had two AZ vaccines, followed by a Pfizer booster. I was very unwell after my 1st jab, had a reaction after the 2nd which was not as bad.
ReplyDeleteI was thrilled that my 3rd was Pfizer. All those I know who had similar, said they were fine. Not me! My arm was worse than ever with a hot swelling, and after 36hrs I had a temperature and drippy nose. Big Sis, had exactly the same symptoms after the same combination, but then we are genetically similar, so perhaps not surprising.. These affects disappeared after exactly a week, for both of us. There is only 20months difference in age, and as youngsters many thought we were twins.
How wrong that was, as I am tall + slim, wheras she is short + dumpy. The third sister is just a mix!
The young pharmacist that Sarnia encountered, does seem not to have handled things in the professional way expected.
ReplyDeleteI was a Pre-Reg Tutor in my time.
When some-one passes the Pharmacy degree, they have to work under supervision with a Pharmacist for a year, before taking the final exam. On passing they are registered as a pharmacist. Some years I had a pre-reg pharmacist, training with me for the whole year. In other years I would have pre-reg pharmacists, who were working in a big nearby hospital, for 4 weeks at a time. These I had to particulary train on inter- personal skills, talking and inter-acting with the public.
It sounds Spicy was unlucky, with her young pharmacist, who perhaps didn't know the full extent of her problems and was still a bit in-experienced.
This was why I loved being a community pharmacist. I knew my regulars so well, but also had a good and close working relationship with 2 local GP surgeries.
Sorry meant Spicy, not Sarnia. I did correct this further down.
DeleteI need to add. My first sentence was not what I meant. Any pharmacist IS a professional person, and are just doing their job, as expected.
DeleteSpicy - you are an inspiration to us all with your positive attitude despite all your problems.
ReplyDeleteI know only too well what those days of depression can be like, when life doesn’t seem to be worth living. I was going to tell you about one particularly bad day I had some years ago but I then thought better of it. It is important to think of the good things in life, the things that make life worthwhile and not to dwell on the negative.
So thank you for making me stop to count my blessings and stop worrying about what might go wrong and resolve to take a more positive attitude to life and events.
Bless you.
I do hope that those of you who are experiencing health problems start to feel better soon.
ReplyDeleteI hope that everyone is recovering well from their boosters. I had the same reaction as I had to the second jab - in bed, aching all over and generally unwell. At least with the booster it wasn't as long lived. Not pleasant but am pleased to have the added immunity.
ReplyDeleteAn unexpected compliment today from my daughter who said I was "in style"! This because my jeans are to my waist which, apparently, is back in style. As I've had said jeans for many years it is true that if you keep things long enough they'll come back into fashion.
Can I get in now? Earlier it wasn’t working
ReplyDeleteSpicey, you inspired me to tidy my scarf collection. They are now filed according to size rather than colour and there is a lot more room in the drawer. I'm feeling quite well now, which I might have done by now anyway, but I think you should take your share of the credit for it.
ReplyDelete🎉x
DeleteI'm now searching my handbag collection to see if I can find
Deletea) The two bottles of the only shampoo I can use at present, which I'm sure I bought last February and left in my handbag, and
b) the Building Soc Pass book used to withdraw money for the garden work, also last February which was securely zipped into the inside pocket of my handbag - if only I could remember which one!
A friend at church once assured me that there was no such thing as too many handbags, but I'm beginning to have my doubts... ...
By the way the pharmacist was a young Sikh man. Not so well up on manners!
ReplyDeleteI found Miriam's reply about pharmacy training helpful.
DeleteLet's hope your young Sikh man has some more 'face to face personel' training from his pre - reg tutor Spiceycushion.
Thanks for your explanation Miriam.
I could do with some of your positivity Spiceycushion.
ReplyDeletePlease parcel some up and send it pronto !
Had a long and hard conversation with eldest D last night.
For various reasons I am terrified of moving.
The how rather than the why.
I do want to leave this cottage and this town, but the logistics of how that can happen terrifies me.
I am not the capable hands on person I was decades ago, but still retain the ambition to change that I had then.
As a very untidy hoarder with a massive and expensive storage problem which I haven't managed to reduce in the six years that I've been here, my negative feelings are very much to the fore right now.
My daughter was trying to persuade me that I can 'do it'.
My fear that I shan't manage to do so reduces me to a very negative state.
I'm off to Minehead to view properties tomorrow. I have to be there for a 10.30 viewing, and it's over a two hour drive.
I've dropped Lady off to a friend this evening for a sleepover.
It's very interesting, this worrying ahead/hoarding/ lack of energy etc, all apply to me.
ReplyDeleteI have a builder and electrician here from tomorrow, damp proofing 2 sides of the house, one wall is underground, so needs tanking. This has meant removing all the cupboards and furniture, utensils, everything, and has taken me weeks. All I need to do now is put dust sheets in place. I'm not good at disposing of things, and have really taken a lot of time and trouble to re-home stuff but the sheer hell of facing up to the task has been the worst bit, plus procrastinating.
I actually regret tackling it now, and I know it will get much, much worse over the next few days.
It's all very well knowing we can do things, but finding the reason, time, energy, motivation to do them is the challenge.
I have known myself to literally spin on the spot when stressed, not knowing what to do first, at which point I generally give up for a while.
The only times I can really get on are when someone else helps me, it is true in my case that a task shared is a task which becomes manageable.
It is also for me an age thing, I used to be very dynamic when younger. These days I can't do anything before breakfast or when it gets dark, or after 5 p.m etc etc, all self imposed restrictions because actually, there are things that I just don't want to do at all. Ever.
As you get older it becomes harder to cope with the things that need to be done. Mrs P, moving is very stressful and I do know how frightening it is to think of all the things that need doing. The best thing is to try to achieve a bit every day and sort things into items to keep, items to throw away and items to bundle up and take to the charity shop. Special treasures need to be set aside to travel with you when you move. Be ruthless in getting rid to make life easier. Clutter complicates our lives and I am still weeding out stuff I really don’t need! You can do it and don’t pull back from allowing others to help you. Good luck and hope you find your next home soon!😊
ReplyDeleteMe too, me too. I shrink from the chaos of having the house re-wired, but I can't chase up the electrician until I find the pass book to the account with the money in it. This has provided a powerful disincentive to search the handbags.
ReplyDeleteI was in bed before ten in preparation for my v early start tomorrow, but predictably didn't get off to sleep so now having consumed hot milk and cheese and biscuits just dropped in here.
ReplyDeleteMistral, you have described so well exactly how I am, including the heel pinning followed by deflation. And your final piece about the loss of dynamism, self imposed restrictions and finally not really wanting to do any of it, describes far better than I how I feel.
Incidentally your cottage sounds the same as mine. Because it's below ground level I had the problems that you are having to remediate.
And by the way, I did get through that building programme successfully, but then couldn't reinstate the chaos caused by the work.
Thank you Mistral for your heartfelt response to my post.
I would love my daughter to read it.
And Sarnia, you've given me a chuckle.
I know that problem too.
Ev, I would love to find someone to help.
If I'd succeeded at that after the building work, I probably wouldn't want to move.
And my daughter has laid into me heavily, because she believes it's invidious to ask for help and that I am and should be capable of doing it for myself.
I don't know where she got that particular value from, since she watched her mother helping others throughout her life.
There is one extremely nice property to view tomorrow. It's at the higher end of my budget but probably worth it.
But my worry is that I will think it too nice, and too good for me.
After struggling throughout my life, with a feckless husband, his debts, single parenthood and in later years, my inability to create a reasonable home, my self esteem is at rock bottom.
Sorry to be such a negative wet blanket.
I did say I needed some of Spiceycushions positive outlook didn't I.
Mrs P, your daughter is wrong in my opinion saying you should be able to do it all yourself. I was 67 when we moved here but even at that age it was overwhelming even though we had moved many times in the past. Fortunately that meant we had ditched a lot of things along the way but even so I had to get rid of a fair amount before we moved. Mike was there and although I had to do most of the packing etc, he did cook the meals and backed me up. On your own it is a different matter and in my case I know Katy would step up to the plate to help. For you and AF the task can seem overwhelming and then you just can’t face doing anything. I have been there! As I said, you need to be ruthless in getting rid. Take it one day at a time and pace yourself. If help is offered, take it even if just someone doing the odd Lady walk! How is she BTW?😊
DeleteTry searching your handbags, Mrs P, always supposing you have more than one, it'll send you off on a totally different tack and you'll still feel you've taken control of something.
ReplyDeleteI've found my sunglasses which I don't need, and my summer lightweight waterproof; pencils, pens, packets of tissues, my ventilator and several other things I didn't know I'd lost, and a white handbag that's been missing for so many years I'd bought another in its place.
No pass book, though, and as for the bottles of shampoo - well, with David's passing closely followed by 8 months' isolation, everything has danced at least three times round the house , so they've either disappeared underneath one of the many piles of something I haven't done and fetched up somewhere unfathomable or I never bought them at all, I just thought I did. I wonder which it is.
So Sorry you have having these negative feelings Mrs P. I think many of us are feeling the same after the past couple of years and despite being encouraged by you, and everyone else, to get on with moving, I actually quite dread it too.
ReplyDeleteAlthough, in principle whishing for a change of surroundings, a more modern and easier to maintain house and garden, the thought of the actually move is daunting.
The knowledge that we shall have to clear out the cellar, filled with almost 40 years worth of junk and ‘things that might come in useful one day’ and similarly the garage, which has so much junk in it that we can only just squeeze the cars in on a good day, is almost too much to even contemplate. To say nothing of the greenhouse and garden sheds, hundreds of plant pots and garden tools!
It would be so much easier to just forget about moving and stay where we are. But I know we must move and I have been feeling so negative, lethargic and disinterested in everything recently that I haven’t even been thinking about where to move to, let alone look at property sites.
So I really do feel for you, especially having to do all this on your own which must be even more daunting. But perhaps the property in Minehead (lovely location) will be attractive enough to spur you on and give you the impetus and courage to make that move.
I do hope so.
So much in the last few posts has resonated with me. I have collected a lot of stuff in life, plus family, in the belief I like old interesting things, have well and truly contributed to this. I have a large farm shed and the attic in the house overflowing, and too much furniture in the house making it cluttered. I sometimes stand there in a tizz thinking now I am older I really should sort and clear it, but somehow there is always something nicer to do. My son has reassured me by telling me not to worry about it because when I am gone he will just clear it all out. I am not quite sure that is reassuring or not. Now I think I had better make a list of some things he might not realise the value of and shouldn't chuck out. I am lucky in having a son who is self employed (internet business) because his time is flexible and he can help out when needed, at least when he is in this country.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't want to move at this stage, and feel for those of you who are having to face sorting out a house. I enjoyed reading your posts.
Mrs P. OF COURSE YOU DESERVE SOMETHING NICE, even more so because you have had it tough earlier on in your life. I don't know why your daughter thinks it is wrong to ask for help.
ReplyDeleteLife is about cooperation and helping each other out. Darwin's ideas of survival of the fittest are outdated now. We apparently have about 50 trillion cells in our bodies and we survive because all those cells work harmoniously cooperating together. A good model for society as a whole I think. I suppose the fact that the majority of people decided to get vaccinated ( maybe even despite misgivings) is a good example of the cooperation model at work for the benefit of all. A book I am finding interesting is "The Biology of Belief" by Bruce Lipton.
I agree Archerfile about the last couple of years, I call it Covid apathy and we have found it difficult to reconnect with the world apart from family and a few close friends.
ReplyDeleteSome good news however, we have a new grandson and hope to go up to Edinburgh to meet him at the weekend, lateral flow tests permitting.
Such interesting posts.
ReplyDeleteMrs.P. please feel free to copy out my post for your daughter.
I used to make many throw away comments and remarks on how my mother got on with life, now I am older I understand her choices better, and wish I had been kinder or even just more tolerant.
I too have the undeserving habit - if I buy something I like, it immediately loses its attraction, simply by being owned by me. It really is barmy and I try to stop it, but attitudes are do ingrained.
I hope you had a good day, and that the lovely house in Minehead is perfect for you 🌺
Congratulations Cheshire Cheese.
ReplyDeleteYes, congratulations! Bet you are more like the Cheshire Cat after your good news!😺
DeleteMassive congrats. Cheshire Cheese to a new grandson. How wonderful. Any idea of a name yet?
ReplyDeleteThe covid apathy feel, is so true + realistic which is affecting many, without actually really realising it.
I am one of those, which I now know and admit!
Let's get positive again, with whatever it might be. It might be getting that move actually finalised, sorting cupboards etc. out, sorting family Christmas visits so all will be together again, and so on
Mind you the cold wintry weather, along with the dark mornings + nights, doesn't help.
I am getting up so much later than normal. It is now at 8.00am when it is light and the CH has been on for an hour.
I do hope you get to see your newborn grandson in Edinburgh at the weekend CC.
ReplyDeleteMy first grandchild will be 21 on Friday.
Where have those years gone ?
Thank you all for those heartfelt messages and replies.
I am touched and grateful for your thoughts.
Despite being in bed before ten last night I didn't sleep until 3am and was up at five.
I've driven almost 200 miles today and had to keep the window open on the way home in order to stay awake and safe.
The maisonette in Minehead was absolutely wonderful.
I could move in without having to lift a paintbrush or even a screwdriver.
I Would love to show you all.
And what a treat it would be to start a new life without needing to anticipate all the building work required.
However there might, or could be, a fly in the ointment and I will have to consult with the CAB to get some advice.
I am exhausted.
Lady was very good staying overnight with her best friend, and I haven't heard TA yet.
I need some food and bed.
Will listen to TA on sounds while in the bath.
I do hope that it works out for you Mrs P.
DeleteIt sounds lovely but I am wondering if the fly in the ointment could be that it is leasehold which might mean paying ground rent.
DeleteNo the opposite.
DeleteI would become the freeholder for the other two leaseholders and would have to administrate the accruing sink funds, which might be viewed as earned income as I don't get a full pension !
Wow MrsP I am in awe of your 200 mile drive I could not have done it all in one day or even 2 now! Well done and on two hours sleep you are a marvel. Do so hope your maisonette works out for you!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear you are feeling more positive Mrs P and hope with all my heart that Minehead works out for you.
ReplyDeleteAnd many many congratulations to Granny CC! What a wonderful early Christmas present for your whole Family. I’ll keep my fingers crossed that all goes well with the trip to Edinburgh and that there are no complications about being able to travel.
Fingers crossed Mrs.P.
ReplyDeleteI hope you get your information quickly to help you make a decision.
Labuan guess you are a very happy lady today ⚽️⚽️⚽️⚽️ - ⚽️🤗
ReplyDeleteLanjan of course 🙄
DeleteI do love this blog! Although I rarely contribute I always read with interest about shared experiences and sympathy and sound advice. So much resonates, as some of you have said.
ReplyDeleteIn my case, like CC I have a new grandson whom I met last week. Luckily there are no border restrictions at present with Switzerland, just forms to fill in and green passes to be shown.
Also like many of you I find myself trying to fight laziness and lethargy. The advice to start small seems to work for me. i ask Alexa ( son’s Christmas present last year!) to set the timer for ten minutes and start one chore. Sure enough I end up doing more than ten minutes, once I’ve got started. In Italy they say “ Chi ben comincia ė a metà opera” ( who starts well is half way through the task”!
That’s a very apt saying Hilary!
DeleteCongratulations to you too on the arrival of your grandson, may we know his name?
Hopefully you will all be able to enjoy a proper Christmas this year with no restrictions, in spite of this wretched new Covid variant.
Keep safe and well and enjoy your new arrival! 👶🏼 🎄
Congratulations Hilary, Pleased to hear that you have been able to see your new grandson. I don't want to be awkward but I prefer not to use real names on a public blog so won't be posting my grandson's name.
DeletePerhaps we should rename him Babybel ; )
DeleteAhoy there Spicy! Shiver me timbers! Both got an eye patch now eh. I hope yours is sorted out with a review of your medication and not a long term thing like mine. Have you got the bulging eye or just the double vision? You really have suffered this last couple of years, no wonder you get depressed. It's awful being ill but if your eye sight is altered and you can't read or watch telly very well it makes life pretty limited for entertainment. Thank goodness for the radio. I seldom read a book now, have gone off music on the radio and just listen to plays and the like.
ReplyDeleteOn a different note........having a disasterous week. My changing the downstairs toilets sink tap turned into totally demolishing the sink from the wall and removing the pedastal and pipe work. Having a good think before going back to it! And.....the dining room curtain pole was dangling at one end this morning so having to re-do that. IS IT GIN O'CLOCK YET!!!!!
Definitely 'wine o'clock,' deciding whatever DIY project I am working on!
DeleteI have a cooker which the bottom oven hasn't got heat, dishwasher which doesn't lose the water and awaiting next week, when scaffolders get the three stories erected, to get builders to get guttering, soffits etc.
The reason I am going to get repairs done next week is because I have to clean a very dirty oven, and get the dishwasher out and get wastepipes sorted. Just in case I can't I have a lovely domestic repairman who I will ring!
PTBY
Just the double vision. Considering I had too many months of stopping at home , now I can't get for a short shop as I can't drive! I listen to the TV and radio. Can just about read for about 10mins then have a break.
First of all dermatology next Saturday, the Christmas tree decoration, wrapping parcels, Christmas, then Radion test on 6th Jan and endochronolical consultant on 25th January. That me sorted for the next two months!
Hope your DIY gets sorted out okay!
Hopefully, sometime in the Spring people who can manage it, will meet up and meet up with the two ladies with eye patches at whatever station!
Spicy….hear,hear to a pirate date in spring. Just leave the parrot at home.
DeleteCurtain pole still up…..so far!!!
Argh, Jim lad.
DeleteI went to a nearby and small retail park today. Dec 1st and as I have done very little Christmas shopping and as it was a lovely, cold but bright day, off I went. There were many others, who also had the same idea. I was there at 10.00am and it was already busy.
ReplyDeleteThis small shopping area is great, as there are lots of different shops, but only main stream ones. I did well though, as there were lots of offers, many half price. It was a successful morning out. I nearly bought some Christmas wrapping paper until I suddenly remembered that, last January I bought 3 rolls in S/bury's, 25p each!
I feel a job well done.
Now to find where I have put them. 🤣
DeleteMrs P.
ReplyDeleteGood Luck. That sounds great and just what you want. I have no knowledge of leasehold/freehold and the related problems. Could a soliciter help?
Archerphile.
Thanks for the eye-drop info. from a while back. I bought a new bottle from Boots own brand range, which is identical to what was prescribed at hosp. but half the price.
I download so much from Sounds these days, to listen to as + when.
ReplyDeleteThe only problem is to spot those which are time limited. Some are only available for 30 days, others for over a year.
As I have been doing this for a while now, I am now getting suggestions as to what might interest me! The thing is, these are suitable and right.
It's a bit like "big brother", perusing my choices.
It's quite spooky in reallity.
However I have listened to some wonderful things, with more to listen to.
I am not a fan of Alexa. A family of mine has one or somethong similar. It drives me crazy but that has to be an age thing only. They love it to get instant music, weather reports etc etc..
ReplyDeleteI have a Hive system for my CH, so perhaps I am not too different.l, after all.
I can change my house heating if I am away from home so CH is on when I return back, or when I am just in bed waking early and it's cold, and don't want to get up to change the heating setting manually.
I do this via my phone, as long as there is wi-fi available.
Modern technology is getting far too advanced for me as each week goes by.
DeleteThe 10yr old in my extended family, runs rings around me now!
To follow up from yesterday.
ReplyDeleteVery impressed with CAB local helpline.
No waiting, a friendly and capable response to assess my request and a follow up call from an advisor within the hour.
Following that advice, I decided to call my solicitor who also called me back promptly and immediately came up with a legal solution to my problem.
I then had an extended call with my daughter about the possibility of problems with Lady within the shared common areas of the property.
I think it’s meant to be….
DeleteThere you are, Mrs P - you are perfectly capable of being in control of a great deal more than your handbag collection. Just make sure you get help with the really big stuff. And you are not necessarily the right person to decide what you deserve - if you want it, go for it!
ReplyDeleteOh Sarnia !
ReplyDeleteGive me an external problem to sort, a telephone to hand, and I'm in my element.
And I will succeed
It's the personal and practical that defeats me.
Nevertheless, thank you for your confidence in me.
I do also agree that I'm probably not the right person to decide what I deserve.