Gary, please do let us know if superVising these blogs is too much of a commitment at the moment. Is it possible to ‘train’ someone else to do what you do, so brilliantly, even if only as a back up when you are away or are unwell.
I would volunteer but it is so difficult and time consuming trying to post on either blog from my iPad that I don’t think it would work.
A different subject Just had some horrible news from the family in Toulouse. They have two beautiful long haired tortoiseshell cats that they homed from a cat rescue society in the Autumn. They have become the love of the family, especially by the boys who adore them. Sadly one went missing immediately before Christmas and posters were put up, notices put online, asking everyone to look out for her.
Today she was found at the local school in the village (presumably shut in over the holidays) but horrifyingly, her beautiful long feathery tail had been chopped off, right at the base! Daughter in law is at the vet with her now. The wound has become infected and there is little left to stitch so recovery will be difficult. I’d prefer to think that she’d lost the tail by a fight with another cat or dog, or had been trapped by it and struggled to escape. But the vet says it looks as if it had been chopped off deliberately. If so, I am appalled by such cruelty to a beautiful animal 😿😿😿
That is heartbreaking news.🙀 She was at least found alive, and she is getting the best of attention, that she so needs + deserves. 😻 Perhaps with your DiL being with her, this will so help puss. It is someone, who loves her and puss can feel wanted + relaxed. It might just help, being with a familiar person again. 🤗
I remember after awful USA wild fires, seeing a documentary about affected animals. The point is this- One family escaped but they couldn't rescue their cat, as no idea where it was. This was found, quite badly burnt and cowering in a stream, by the USA rspca. It was taken to a centre, and it was v. poorly, touch n go. The family were franticly, searching through all the animal rescue sites, just in case. They came to this site, looked at all the cats none of which seemed to be theirs - until a poorly cat meowed. It was theirs but they couldn't recognise it, but the cat recognised them by the voices - the rest is history as cat made a full recovery. Archerphile, the point is that there is hope - on hearing familar voices and recognising familiar smells, which will so help.
I just love the garden photo, which is not my garden, in any way just now. My snowdrop clumps are looking good, so to give another good show again this year. However, none of my other bulbs, be new or old, are even appearing. Perhaps with these now cold + frosty mornings, it will start them off. To the true gardeners - a question. Am I right in that cold + frost is needed, to get bulbs doing what is required of them?
I do hope so. Thanks to the bad bout of bronchitis which kept me indoors for half October and most of November, I was so late planting my new ones I'll be grateful if any come up at all.
So Novak Djokovic, has been able to by pass all the visa requirements, along with covid passports etc. to now enter OZ and so to play in the Australian Open. Why is there one rule for one - when others have suffered so much, whilst obeying and complying, with all the rules + regulations, to the detriment to seeing our many families + friends. I just feel so angry! 😨
In my case, this was and still is, the Welsh/English border with the still ongoing differing rules. As for the Deva football stadium..it is just so silly and will end in tears ⚽️ 🥅 and possible closure. .
The report of your family cat in France, is not I’m afraid so unusual. Not sure how to respond to news that such cruelty happens in France as happens here. I have always suspected that it was the deliberate and horrific cruelty to her cat, by boys that she worked with in a youth centre near her house, that led my sister to become a sociologist. And children who are cruel to animals often grow into adults who inflict cruelty on humans. I am very sorry for your family and hope that Miriam’s story of recovery helps you to feel some optimism.
Cruelty to animals is a world-wide problem. We recently had an incident here where a goat (family pet) was taken from its home and decapitated. Just for the hell of it, I expect. But the other side of the coin is the amazing work done by many organisations and groups working with animals and birds on a daily basis. We have an albatross colony close to where I live and it has a 24 hour webcam operating. It is nesting time here and the egg is due to hatch very soon. People all over the world are following the albatross story every day. If you want to check it out you can see it at - doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/birds/birds-a-z/albatrosses/royal-albatross-toroa/royal-cam/royal-cam-2021-discussion/ - or just google royal cam and it will take you there.
I warn you, though, it can be such a time-waster. I can happily spend all day just watching mum or dad sitting serenely on the nest.
Makes me cold just watching it! Is it always that windy?
I was surprised to see they've been incubating the eggs since November. So I've been googling various birds. Garden birds seem to be about a couple of weeks. The longest I've found is the poor penguin - 65 to 75 days.
Incubation is about 11 weeks and then it takes the chick anything up to a week to hatch. The rangers often take the eggs away during hatching and replace with a dummy egg. Fly strike is a serious problem for the hatching eggs as the babies emerge at the height of summer.
Always windy at Taiaroa Head. Albys need strong winds to land and to fledge. They only come on land to nest. The rest of the time they are in the air or on the sea. It always amazes me when the chicks fledge in September. From never having flown at all they launch themselves off the top of the cliff and fly (actually, they glide) all the way to the west coast of South America, where they remain for 4 or more years. Then back they come to breed and begin the next generation.
I know I'm an old fool, but every year when we watch the webcam chick leave I have a few tears. Then wait with bated breath for the returning adults.
Djokovic! 😡 I am so cross he is being allowed to stay and play in the Australian Open (so far anyway) Total lack of respect for the citizens of Australia. “I want I get” He would do better to follow our Queens example - for the good of all not personal gratification. Rant over!
If he does play I can’t think he will be well received and could get some hostility from the spectators. If he had any integrity he would just go home. Fair enough if he doesn’t want the vaccine but don’t put others in danger of infection.
...or use his power, wealth and influence to circumvent the necessary rules which have caused so much pain and hardship to those of us who followed them. I was bracing myself all through this evening's news bulletin for more of this irritating egotist, but tonight he was seriously upstaged by the prime minister. That's not intended as a political comment, just a statement of fact.
I imagine there must be more evidence against Prince Andrew than the photograph we are often shown. I have an identical photo taken with the captain of a local ferry boat on our favourite Greek island. His day-excursions were always a focal point of our visits to the island, he is a bit of a local character and liked being photographed with his lady passengers. In this case the photo is not evidence of anything other than a thoroughly enjoyable day on the sea and I'm glad it was taken, as it seems unlikely that I will ever travel on his boat again.
I wouldn’t like to speculate on Andrew’s guilt or innocence. However, he was very stupid to get involved with such awful people and it is unforgivable that he invited them to Her Majesty’s estate.
Archerfile I hope so much your family's cat recovers. Cruelty to animals is a horrible thing. It made me remember a time when I was just 18 and doing voluntary work for a year in a home for what was then called maladjusted children. Some of the children ran indoors to tell me one of the boys was pulling the wings off a baby bird, and by the time I got there he had. It was my turn to oversee the tea time meal, and instead of giving the boy his meal I placed a plate with the bird on it in front of him , and told him the only reason for killing an animal was if it was needed for food. I once told a friend of this and she thought I had been very cruel because his behaviour must have stemmed from his upbringing, which I am sure it did. My intention was to shock him and make him think in the hope he didn't do similar again.
Although such actions mat be frowned upon these days, and possibly then, I applaud you, especially if it could be coupled with some discussion about his behaviour. I have to ask, albeit in bad taste, did you cook the bird?
Nooo, not big enough, just a baby sparrow. I wish I knew how the lad had turned out. I was not there long, going on to study afterwards and eventually to a social work course that taught me more acceptable ways of dealing with things. But I do think that even skilled discussion doesn't always work, whereas a vivid pictorial action can with some personalities. I am still in touch with someone who was a child in the Home and who often stayed at my parents farm, and in the Autumn visited her in Edinburgh where she is unfortunately now in a Nursing Home. So I know how she and her siblings and a few of the others turned out, but not that particular family.
Re:Whoops, Error Just now I opened the blog to read a new post and got the dreaded message just for scrolling down to the end. I am permitted to post without further comment. It obviously didn"t like the way I touched the screen! Is it possible that you ladies with tablets are being too rough with Mr Google?
AP how upsetting. how cruel. Thank goodness she was found & is having treatment. Our tortie Amy who came to France with us disappeared & we never found her. Later a neighbour told us that they'd seen her after she'd eaten baited food left down for vermin. Well thanks a lot.
Thanks to everyone for their comments. Sorry to have started discussion about animal cruelty and some horrendous remembrances and stories. I’ve heard that Plume (her name, ironically given because of her long feathery tail!) is now back home after spending a night at the vets. They have patched her up but the wound is infected and she is very thin after being missing for 3 weeks with little food. But the family will nurse and pamper her and I’m keeping fingers crossed for a good recovery, even without her tail.
I am so glad that things are progressing so well. Remember a Manx cat, doesn't have a tail. Plume is a true survivor. She showed this after being shut in for 3 weeks, which I hadn't realised was that long.
Very sorry about the poor cat Archerphile, I hope she survives and more importantly, is pain free. I just don't understand that type of cruelty/violence
Neither do I. A cat of mine, about 20yrs ago, returned home after going awol for nearly 24hrs. She was obviously injured + hurt and the vet found she had a gun pellet in her rump, so had been shot! No way could she be confused for a rabbit/fox or similar, as she was white with randomblack "spots" in her fur. It was assumed she was used for target practice. She survived after op. + antibiotics.
This is due to my posting, far too often, which is not liked I will be back in a week, or so. In the meantime:- All - keep warm, stay healthy, eat + sleep well, look after your pets - and my any problems be resolved suitably.
Archerphile. Great News as you can now go to France for your long awaited, wonderul family reunion. Get those plane tickets booked, to be there for the February half term school hols. 🤗
Would love to Miriam but the family have booked a skiing holiday in Andorra for the whole of half term week! We’ll plan to go a little later, perhaps in the Easter holidays.
Just testing. I normally use my PC or old Android tablet (which hasn't had any updates for ages) to post. Thought I'd try my phone which is newer and has the latest Android version on it.
My new, costly + updated Android 'phone, is just 3 months old. It is only whilst using this that my posting problems, have started. I hope that this isn't a coincidence.
This new android 'phone of mine, is just brilliant. As this is the only site which I am having problems with, then this has to be accepted + understood. My problem seems to be the length of a post, The longer ones dissappear, even after getting the message, "published" 😪
Like you Archerphile going to iOS 14 on my iPad seemed to cause grief, I am now on iOS 15 and it seems marginally better with regards to the blog although my iPad seems more inclined to crash which is a pain and the battery usage is all over the shop.
A source of pleasure at the moment is our bird feeder; we have a jay that has learnt from the tits and is enjoying the peanuts, a couple of chaffinches who think they’re humming birds, a ginormous pheasant (I think the local shoot has given them steroids to make them easier to hit) and what I think is a long tailed tit, a first for me but it always seems to be at the wrong angle for me to check it isn’t a wagtail.
What a lovely + heartfelt story I have just read. This is a couple, now 100 + 102 years of age, celebrating their 81st wedding anniversary, after marrying in 1941. This gives me such a good feel feeling, such that life can go on, regardless of all the problems experienced along the way.
I’ve had confirmation this afternoon that my car is ready for collection. I’ve bought my rail ticket for Sunday, and the mechanic has kindly offered to collect me from the train at Truro and take me to the car. My friend in the next town will have Lady for a couple of days and will also drive me to Cheltenham to get on the train on Sunday. My dear friend of many decades will be paying the invoice on my behalf this evening. Despite the poor situation with my daughters, I feel blessed.
Three men living in Cornwall, two of them completely unknown to me, have been incredibly kind, and have put themselves out to help me.
I would appreciate suggestions as to how to thank them.
Were they women I would send flowers. One way that I’ve thought of is money behind the bar at the pub nearby the garage. But that would entail one of them not driving. However the garage owner lives very nearby I think, so might be able to walk.
I’m sure helping you has been a pleasure for them knowing how much you have appreciated their help and support. How about nice thank you cards and some tins of really nice biscuits🤔
That's good news Mrs P, glad it is all nearly sorted. money at the bar sounds good, provided they actually like it there I used to give people bottles of alcohol, if they had done me a favour, usually whiskey, because if they didn't like it, it would make a good gift for someone who did.
How lovely to read of people's kindness in contrast to the story of poor Plume. I like the idea of thank you cards and some good biscuits or maybe some nice chocolates. I cannot bear cruelty of any kind and hate of hear about it. I hope Plume makes a good recovery.
Mrs P, you will know the feeling you get when you do something for somebody which that person truly appreciates . It is true that it is more blessed to give than to receive You get more pleasure seeing how delighted somebody is who has been helped by you. The person who gives that help wants nothing more than to be thanked. No reciprocal present is necessary. The best thing you can do for the kind people who helped you is to write a letter of thanks to them-a proper letter not an email. .If someone has done something special whilst working for someone else then a letter to the CEO of the Company in addition would be a good idea. Since you do not know these people personally it would be difficult to decide what to buy them You might like to give a small donation to a Charity instead. That way there is another winner. If I were one of those kind people that is what I would prefer.
Great News Mrs P. What supportive friends and unknown persons, you are having over this ordeal. I am like you, who likes to acknowledge good service, but in a simple way. My thought - but this depends if there is a good bakery nearby - is to arrange a delivery of Cornish Pasties or similar. Simple but tasty.
When I was working, it was always so nice when I was thanked - be it with flowers, a card, an e-mail etc. but what meant so much were the more simplistic things. This could be:- a muffin, a bunch of wild flowers, a massive hug, or some-one who just popped in to say "Thank-you" in person. Little + simple things do mean a lot.
When I resigned from my work, not knowing what I would do next - I arranged a delivery to my now "ex" staff for the day after. This was a tray of cakes of varying sorts. These were eclairs, doughnuts, iced buns, danish pastries, muffins, strawberry tarts etc. It was simple, but it was very appreciated.
Tonight Helen Monks (PipArcher until 2014) is on “Pointless” not a watch for me these days but I will pop in to this episode just to see her and to see if I can recognise her voice albeit that she used her own 🤔
Apologies all, for posting too much and too often. I am having a much delayed post Lockdown/ Covid syndrome. This is only due to a silly fear, of being in a crowded place with many persons close around me. I have just got too used to being home alone. I will overcome this..😀
My week of no posting - starts NOW!! Roast Pork is in the oven, which will be eaten whilst watching The Masked Singer. A silly show I know, but it amuses me, which says a lot about me 🤣😉🤭
Miriam, many people are feeling the effects of the last two years. Having hardly been in a shop and doing shopping online I have no desire at all to venture into town. I think it is a loss of confidence and the other day I went up to the village beauty shop(no, it doesn’t work for me! ) and the beauty lady said she feels exactly the same. There’s nothing silly about it but it just shows how we are conditioned by events.
Quick update on Plume. A follow up visit to vet this morning. Not happy with way wound healing so it has been tidied up a bit and stapled (ouch). On antibiotics of course as it’s still infected. Have seen a photo of her cuddled up with her sister and she is about now half the size, having lost so much weight when trapped. But is feeding well now and purring a lot when stroked.
Better news than might have been expected ARCHERPHILE. We must all hope for this recovery to continue.
Lady is now with my friend in the next town for a couple of days. My friend took me to our local station to collect my ticket to Truro which I booked online last night. Website said booking office open until 2.45. We arrived at 1.50 and the notice on the door gave opening hours as closing at 1.30. !!!!!!! We walked the dogs, and friend took me to Sainsburys, where I bought three boxes of chocolate biscuits as my thanks to my three Cornish hero’s. Thank you ladies for suggestions.
Miriam - I just want to thank you for the recommendation to listen to Behind Closed Doors. I've listened to a few of the episodes and find them enjoyable and interesting.
You should also look at :- "24, Kildare Road". It is on Sounds for over a year, and is just interesting, as to how it is done. It needs listening to in "blocks", so as not to lose the thread.
Unfortunately Helen Monks and her partner were the first to be eliminated so we didn’t much chance to see or hear her. She was on the first podium. Very pretty and not sounding in the slightest like the teenage Pip
I've just caught up on all the posts on this thread and this message is for Miriam:
Dear Miriam, please do not stop posting, even for a day or two. Your posts are chatty, friendly, speculative and interesting to read. They are never mean-spirited, overbearing, condescending or nasty in any way. You are exactly the sort of poster that helps threads like this thrive. You keep it up, girl!
Archerphile ,has your son left Dubai for good now? I went there at the start of 1996 and then again about 10 years later when it was like a huge building site. I decided to watch a programme about Dubai on TV recently and I can honestly say -apart from not having to pay tax* that it holds absolutely no attraction for me and I am unable to comprehend -apart from * why people would want to live there.. Do you know what I must be missing?
I made a vow of silence, but I am breaking it, for one reason only.
A grand-nephew, who is only 5 + 1/2yrs of age, tested +ve this morning. He is very excited as to have a week off school, but it is causing problems with his parents, re work + care. Then there is his brother, not yet 3 yrs old. 😨
My OZ niece + her hubbie, met in Tonga. This was also the place, where they got engaged and still have lots of friends living there. They are both quite frantic, as after the volcanic eruption + tsanumi, there has been no possible communications. So it is 🤞🤞 that all is as it should be 😀✔
You’ve got a point there about the number of blogs rather than the length.
Just have a think about the logistics of the blog Miriam. No need for flouncing off. Just trying to ease the burden on Gary, who seems to be busy with other stuff rather than this blog all the time.
LanJan - yes our son has left Dubai for good now. He was just on a 3 year contract to work in Airbus’s office there and is now permanently back in Toulouse.
We have just watched the 3rd programme in the series on BBC2 about Dubai, and frankly, we were horrified. Apparently the filming was overseen by representatives of the government there and there were people who couldn’t be interviewed and questions that couldn’t be asked. We felt it was very biased towards the super rich and almost an advert for incredibly expensive properties and holidays, There was nothing about the lives of immigrant workers, their living and working conditions. The whole emphasis was on the Palm Jameria complex and luxury hotel building. Mr H and I commented that if we hadn’t already been to Dubai and experienced normal life there with the family we should certainly not want to go, having seen those 3 programmes.
Just after seeing the excessive wealth in Dubai we watched ITN News with a film about the appalling condition of families starving in Afghanistan The contrast couldn’t have been more dramatic or sickening.
What got me ,Archerphile was all these young women with trout pouts. One day they will be old ladies with trout pouts. When I was there I found the climate was too hot and humid and that was February What is is like in July I dread to think.
Ooh Sarnia, I'm very glad I won't see them. When I was nursing, it was sad seeing those poor old men, always men in those days, with faded, wilting snakes and anchors, withering away. My soon has a tattoo across his whole back, it looks horrible now, it will be ghastly if he gets to be my age.
Ugh to the old men! It so often seems to be the 'big girls' who go in for them - a gesture of defiance I suppose - but I saw one once with climbing roses growing all the way up one leg, and thought Um!
Could someone please tell me what a ‘trout pout’ is ? I agree about the tattoos. I’ve known one or two woman who had tattoos when young and regretted them when middle aged and went through removal. Expensive and painful I believe.
Esscee - I’m sorry to hear that you thought that you were amongst those accused of bullying Miriam last year, and as a consequence have posted less frequently. I hope through still reading, you know that Miriam herself trounced the person who made that accusation, and that that person has not posted since. Clever Miriam I say ! However another contributor does seem to have dropped out of our discussions, since then and if still reading there in Alsace, I would very much like her to return, as she is still missed.
Botox injections in the lips, Mrs P, meant to make them fuller and more alluring, (depending on your definition of "alluring'). Often goes wrong, leaving lips all thick and blubbery, like a trout.
Goodness me ! Sounds horrible - to do and to see. I’m very pleased that I’ve always accepted the way I looked, when young and now. Never really wanted to change anything then, and know that I can’t change anything now.
Remember when Lesley Ash (I think was her name) who was in ‘Men Behaving Badly’ had this done several years ago and her lips swelled alarmingly and absolutely ruined her looks. She was unable to get acting jobs for a long time afterwards which was a shame because she was a very good actress.
My sister has regular Botox - does wonders for her emerging wrinkles.
'Though, to be fair, it also does wonders for her migraines, which are the real reason she has it. I knew a girl with cerebral palsy some time again. A dose of Botox would relax the muscles in her feet sufficiently for the physio to exercise them. Both these treatments seem rather more useful than ironing out a few frown/laughter lines.
Do women with trout pouts become old trouts as they age?
My niece and hubbie in OZ, are in a bad way. They met each other in Tonga, and some years later, they then got engaged whilst on a holiday in Tonga. They are frantic, as they cannot get in touch with all their friends there, who they know so well, as to know if they are safe + well.
It must be an awful time for them, Miriam, and even more so for their friends on Tonga. Praying they're OK. We had similar fears last year when the earthquake hit Haiti. A girl we sponsor lives in the affected region and it was sometime before we received confirmation that she was alive and well. As far as we can ascertain, the rest of her family is OK too. Their house was destroyed though. Keep us posted Miriam
I hope your relatives friends are safe and well Miriam.
Good news today, that the airport was being cleaned up with basic tools and labour, and that the Australian government was sending supplies as soon as it becomes safe to land.
Blow up my profile pic. Look at that number plate. Couldn’t believe it. Saw that in our local supermarket car park. Have seen it round town a few times now.
I recently drove behind a milk cart in the nearby country lanes, as it was do doing its regular milk deliveries. I nearly crashed my car! My late fathers initials were BJW. The reg. of this milk float was:- BJW 100. It was so strange to see this.
How lovely to read on the other page, as to how many are in personal contact with others, so to give help + support, in whatever way. It is so heart-warming to know this, and that good does happen.
You have in the past shown a very good example of ‘ getting over it’ I for one am pleased your still with us. You often bring a lighter touch. Thank you
I have been unable to post on the other side. Keep getting the ‘WHOOPS’
I have finally got over my 2years of Covid fears and my sort of isolation, just me + Pusscat.. What a difference life now seems..and I no longer have "anxiety" dreams. These were weird, eg trying to find a loo when desparate, trying to catch a plane when ticket/passport are missing, still working with problems, sitting an exam when revised the wrong subject....and it goes on. These dreams were purely just anxiety driven. I would also wake up with the clamping + grinding, of my teeth together again, not done since I left work!
Complete freedom from any Government instructions next Monday Miriam then just personal choice. Doubt we will be ditching masks and gel immediately though.
Oops next Thursday (onwards) then maybe everything gone on March 24th - umm the day before Mr R’s birthday and although a special one will not be rushing to have more than a quiet time with close friends.
Archerfile and Sarnia, I have seen your posts on the other blog and I can see why you reacted as you did. I’m so sorry, Archerfile that you had to endure taunts in your growing up and were refused membership of the tennis club. I fail to see what tennis has to do with one’s faith! Sarnia, your faith had to be strong to stand against the views of those around you and I admire that. It wasn’t Jews who crucified Christ but human frailty and crowd hysteria. As for the lay reader making anti Semitic remarks, that’s their problem not yours. There is too much hypocrisy in every religion!
Like others I was saddened by the ructions on the other blog, reading through I couldn’t understand how it had escalated, the last few messages gave me some insight. I have always enjoyed Archerphile’s and Sarnia’s contributions and hope that this blog can continue to stagger along despite the posting problems some of us, including myself, have. I blame Apple!
Amazing. Before Christmas my husband parked in a large retail park car park and realised he was parked behind our old car that we’d part exchanged about 2 yrs earlier! Never had that happen before.
Mrs P if you tap on a bloggers name it will bring up the profile photo on its own screen you can then expand it with your thumb and forefinger - not the best quality but can certainly see more detail, handy for our artists work too! When done just pinch picture back to size and click on the large left hand arrow at the top of the page to return to the blog.
Some years back some friends called by but we were out however they were stunned to see that our neighbours car was one of their previous vehicles 😳
Good morning. I’m making this comment here so that The Archers blog remains free to make episode comments. I don’t often post here but popped in to support Archerphile. Some religious sects have a long history of proselytising their beliefs and with that created myths that resulted in harassment and persecution. Carolyn’s comments are a reflection of how this mythology has promoted individuals to carry out acts hatred in order to demonstrate their prejudices. The last time I posted was in response to Miriam’s claim that she was “being picked on”. I don’t care how many posts she makes nor how interesting they may or may not be. What I do find a bit odd is that you, Miriam acknowledge the number of post you make, say you will take some time out, but fail to change your behaviour. Unlike you I will write this in one go it doesn’t make sense to use the blog for in this way. Do what you say or don’t do it!! The way we use language on here is also an issue, at least for me. When someone says they aren’t going to comment, they are accused of Flouncing off. This a negative word to what the user of the word perceives to be an exaggerated and annoying behaviour and gives the impression their behaviour is childish and inappropriate. Everyone is has the right to make decisions/ choices and Archphile’s comments have always been thoughtful and are reflective of an adult making a choice based on her perceptions. If we find such comments offensive then the issue says more about us the the actual comment. We all act in the here and now but that is done through our level of self awareness, skill and ability to look over and beyond the fence/wall hear the experience of other and empathise. The voice on the other side may have a differ t story to tell. Have a good day.
Stasia…… your ‘Shalom’ meant so much to me yesterday, I bless you for it . Caroline….. your post also lifted my spirits because you had insight into my feelings as a member of a minority faith and spoke up for me so eloquently. I thank you and bless you too. To both of you……I am so touched that you both broke a long silence to post and it is lovely to know that you are both still out there reading our comments, if not commenting yourselves. I would love to know that Basia is still with us too.
Others commented about the strength many of us have received from these blogs during the past couple of years and I am certainly grateful for that. My ‘explosion’ yesterday was not typical of me and I am now rather ashamed of making a fuss and causing distress to others. A lifetime of prejudice came to a head with all the religious content in TA over the past few months, culminating in the anti-semitism I encountered in my own village from a senior member of the church. Hence the use of the ‘p’ word which didn’t occur to me would cause distress to Sarnia and Mrs P.
As Maryellen predicted, I probably will begin to comment again in due course, (providing I can figure out the Internet mechanics which have taken 3 attempts to post this!) In the meantime I shall most certainly keep reading.
Please don’t castigate you self. I agreed with your comment and if I could make only one change it would be Proselytise to:replace Propaganda. That would have to happen on the other blog.
I’m pleased to see that you are still reading. Yesterday you made an apology to me, and in your comment above, you mentioned me again. Please AP, it’s not necessary to apologise to me. I was not offended by your comments, simply mildly irritated by your use of the word propaganda. I also felt, again mildly, as Sarnia had said, that the followers of Christianity are often disrespected, when other religious beliefs are not. No offence was taken by me. And I do not need any apologies. Nevertheless thank you for doing so. You have said you regret using that word, and I agree that proselytise would have been better. I’m pleased that you have given further thought to posting, and I hope you will continue to do so.
I feel now that for the sake of us all we should draw a line under this subject.
I saw the Beluga fly past again today. I always think of Archerphile, when this happens. It was an old one and very noisy! I could hear it, before seeing it.
Now the covid restrictions are being lifted next week, I will become a Chester Zoo member again probably in February. The time is right. Spring is approaching and the gardens always look good. I need the excercise whilst walking around and looking at the wonderful animals again.
PS It is really good value, as it is only about £100 for a "senior" year pass, which gives unlimited access for 12 months. This means, that it is so easy to just pop in for an hour or two, when I feel like it as just a short drive away. It only takes about 15mins.
IT and the needed technology is suddenly passing me by. I went onine this morning, to just pay my window cleaner (who came last week) and pay a credit card balance (Xmas pressies + sale items I treated myself to). What a long time it took to do, what to me, were just simple tasks. It was the extra codes asked for to then be put in, which were to come via a text message.These were never received. It was finally sorted, but it took a long time plus a lot of patience, to do 2 simple bank transactions just pay my "bills".
I've been battling with technology over the last week while doing my annual update of all my online accounts. I've been gradually changing from an old email address to a newer one and changing some passwords which were less secure. Websites vary so much, some are so easy to navigate and others nearly impossible. I empathise with you Miriam over the text messages, my phone's been pinging a lot this afternoon much to Mr CC's annoyance.
Indeed Lanjan - plus Portsmouth he and his mate of many years used to regularly attend their matches some time back now. It appears from what I can gather that Arsenal (like the England cricket team) are either on top form or rubbish 😳 Mr R played a lot of sports in his youth - opening batsman for the our town cricket team, Goalkeeper for a local village, plus golf etc etc. All (happy) memories now. Was Mr LJ a sports lover and have you always enjoyed football?
What lovely light afternoons, are now suddenly appearing again. This is so welcome. Did anyone watch "Winterwatch" last night? I loved seeing the pole-cats, but what I was very enthused about was, the remnants of a sea eagle nest, which were taken + tested, to see what was caught, and then fed to the young birds. As for the size of the "nest" and its construction, amazing!
Yes Miriam we have been watching! Last night was on catch-up due to football! I love that they have kept the well-being slot that started during the 2020 lockdown it is just magical 🦅 🐥 🦉
Today I received an interesting letter, which relates to the UK Avian Bird 'flu epidemic. I am apparanetly, living in a red hot spot. This letter was to give all, an e-mail site, 'phone numbers etc. so to report any sightings of birds of any type, who are either dead or look poorly.
Has any-one like me, been reading the new Highway Codes, coming into force next week? I respect these, as to the protection of cyclists, "mums with prams", pedestrians etc. but I can see many problems to motorists. When I am driving home, I need to turn off a very busy road, to then go onto much quieter ones to get home. It seems that cyclists etc. have priority, if they are about to cross the quieter road at this turn off. I can envisge having to suddenly slow or even stop, if this occurs - but will the car behind me also be able to react?? I need to read it all again, but it doesn't seem at all straight forward. I might have mis-understood, which I appreciate + acknowledge.
Someone on here introduced me to a godfather cocktail. Just to say. I have a bottle of Cointreau and a bottle of dissarono so I thought I’d try equal measures of each as a cocktail. Bloody amazing. Can’t recommend enough. 😍
To answer your question ,Lady R ,yes I have always liked cricket and football Mr LJ also liked both but we supported different teams for both sports. He supported Sussex and Brentford who sadly were promoted to the Premiership too late for him to enjoy that.
Thank you for your reply Lanjan. I can get the gist of most sports except Cricket 🏏 I totally agree with the hilarious item where this sport is explained to a non cricket person such as myself you will know it I’m sure 🤣
I am busy cooking a meal, which will do at least 5 further ones. It will be a pulled gammon/vegetable casserole, and doing a red cabbage dish at the same time. As a result of my cooking - I now have a steam scald/burn on a wrist. I did the usual 15mins under cold running water, but it is still producing a blister in a red area... What will be will be - and meal will be tasty.
PS As having just "pulled" the gammon joint apart, I have put a lot aside to be frozen, to then create a gammon/onion/apricot quiche. What cheap meals are being created, (about 8 or more now) from what was a £4 slab of gammon! It takes time, but it is so worthwhile, as cost effective and yummy. It is well doing the effort involved.
We’re having duck which was intended for New Year but other menus got in the way! I did my orange sauce then and froze it so not too much work tonight! It is a duck crown and some of the online revues said it was not good as not much meat on it. The thing about ducks is they don’t have the plumpness of chickens and what looks substantial usually consists of a lot of infrastructure and not a lot of flesh. If you fattened them too much, they would sink! What there is though is very tasty!
I like the sound of your gammon with apricots in a quiche. I have only used pineapple with gammon meals so will give your idea a go. Better still my daughter likes new recipes so I will tell her about it. We have a duck farm locally with Appleyard ducks, and the young couple running it open a duck truck cooking van on Friday and Saturday evenings with duck pizzas, duck burgers, tacos and, my favourite, duck salad with home made coleslaw and chips. Friday is our no cooking fish and chips night but sometimes we go to the duck truck for a treat.
To Janice. My "gammon/apricot quiche" is a made-up one. I caramalise a red onion, put this into the partially pre-baked pastry case. I add the shredded cooked gammon, along with some finely chopped ready-to-eat dried apricots, not too much as to the sweetness. The rest is the usual egg/milk/herbs etc. mixture to taste, and then cooked to suit. As a non cheese eater, this suits my palate. It is just my take on the traditional - egg/bacon/cheese quiche.
Thanks Miriam. I have some dried apricots left over from making the Christmas pudding so will use them and try your recipe. I made a cherry and blueberry crumble for Sunday tea and that was nice with custard.
Where is every-one? I so wish to hear the end of Mrs P's car situation, along with those who have plans to move home, and how these plans are progressing. Then there are to me, so many, who are now very silent. I, for one, miss their valuable input, of many interesting topics.
....books being read, how gardens are doing, reading interesting sports comments, and just how All Are. PS I was thrilled to see a GB skiier, winning the Kitzbuhl Slalom..🇬🇧⛷
Miriam - I’m sure I did write that I’ve been home with my car last Monday. All is not well with me at present, hence little I put on here, plus the difficulties in posting.
We were on a Fred cruise a few years ago on Burns night and the starter was a mini haggis, needs and tattles. It was accompanied by a wee dram of not very nice whisky which perked up considerably with the addition of a drop of water. Apparently this is the way to take your whisky and never over ice!
Once in the Naval mess I said the Grace:
Some hae meat and canna eat And some wad eat that want it But we hae meat And we can eat And sae the Lord be thankit!
This was because of my Scottish heritage but I never told them I had learnt it from the lid of a biscuit tin!!😉😁
Re deer on the other blog. It sounds as if Mr CC had a lucky escape but he must have been shocked. Katy hit a pigeon on the M6 and it took out one of her headlights. I can only imagine the damage a large animal could cause. Mike always said you should never swerve to avoid an animal as it could cause a serious accident to you and anyone in your path. Very hard to do as instinctively you would want to miss the animal.
My mother was driving her parents old Morris car when she hit a horse in the New Forest. As long as I can remember that car had a big dent in one front bumper. There is now a speed limit in the Forest and most horses wear an iridescent collar but there are still many animals killed. It is one place where they are allowed to roam freely along with cattle and pigs. Pigs are let out in the autumn to forage for acorns which are very harmful to horses.
Mrs P Whatever is wrong, I do hope things are improving. You are missed as are Archerphile and Sarnia. I have written this on my old iPad - I’m having problems publishing on my new one!!!
I was intrigued with last night's Winterwatch (Tuesday). This was the scenes of the white tailed eagle nest in Mull. The male bird was identified, with the help of BT in some way, to be one called Skye, ringed in 1998(?). It was apparantley a star of a similar programme in 2005, along with his female mate. It is not known yet, if the female seen is the same one. I hope so..as I love a romantic story.
Another animal story which as fascinated + intrigued me recently, is Jonathon, the giant tortoise. He lives on the pacific island of St. Helena, and is now believed to be about 190yrs of age. A 'photo taken in 1882, ages him then at about 50yrs.
I am looking forward to Marin Clune's final episode of his current series. This is that it concentrates on the Galapagos Islands, where I saw giant tortoises in the wild, and Lonesome George. I spent a wonderful 7-days sailing around the islands, on a yatch in 2005. I visited so many wonderful islands, often in the very early morning (about a 6.00am start) and the amazing wild-life.
I expect to see a big difference in this programme, with the now commercialism and tourist trade.
This was a trip, I will never forget and also the 2 weeks spent in Ecuador. Sailing across the equator with champagne, on the bridge at night, was just magical.
Freeview tv's + boxes c hanged some channels today at midday. My internet box has changed automatically, but I need to re-tune both my TV (even though a smart one) and my other HDD recorder. This is for info. only.
Yes Marion we have had the message on our Smart tv to press the button and rescan for 3 days running now. The first time gave us the local bbc and itv we really like to see ie bbc South and itv Meridian those remained on the second scan but today gone again back to London only which is HD of course but local locals not but still a good picture when we can view them. This is much to do with 5G I believe and tv signals being moved and moved…. We do have an Amazon fires stick as well as terrestrial tv which we use for catch up and many other formats.
Lady R. Like you after re-tuning my TV and my HDD, I also was also tuned into a different transmitter. This is now Liverpool - but what a difference. All the images are now so much sharper and clear, regardless of what channel.. I am lucky, apparantely.
Miriam I did appreciate your effort the other day to combine blogs into one longer interesting post. It wouldn’t matter at all if it weren’t for the fact that a new blog should really be opened after 200 posts irrespective of their length.
I am intrigued to know what you were doing on the ship’s bridge drinking champagne at midnight!
The one place I really want to visit again, as I have mentioned previously, is:- The Terracotta Army site in China. This is due to what is still being found. I have read a lot about this recently, in that this 'burial' site took over 40yrs to plan + build, and this is why so much more is still being discovered. On my previous visit, I actually met the farmer, who found the 1st warrior by accident, when digging a well.
Miriam, do you realise that you have posted more than 25% of the comments on this particular blog? May I suggest that you reread what you have written to see if perhaps you could have consolidated some of them?
Thank you Gary and an apt picture to give us all hope of a better year ahead.
ReplyDeleteSorry guys I’m not sure how or why that happened!
ReplyDeleteThank you Gary. I am not alone in sensing that all is not well at Gilday Mansions
ReplyDeleteGary, please do let us know if superVising these blogs is too much of a commitment at the moment.
ReplyDeleteIs it possible to ‘train’ someone else to do what you do, so brilliantly, even if only as a back up when you are away or are unwell.
I would volunteer but it is so difficult and time consuming trying to post on either blog from my iPad that I don’t think it would work.
A different subject
ReplyDeleteJust had some horrible news from the family in Toulouse.
They have two beautiful long haired tortoiseshell cats that they homed from a cat rescue society in the Autumn. They have become the love of the family, especially by the boys who adore them.
Sadly one went missing immediately before Christmas and posters were put up, notices put online, asking everyone to look out for her.
Today she was found at the local school in the village (presumably shut in over the holidays) but horrifyingly, her beautiful long feathery tail had been chopped off, right at the base!
Daughter in law is at the vet with her now. The wound has become infected and there is little left to stitch so recovery will be difficult. I’d prefer to think that she’d lost the tail by a fight with another cat or dog, or had been trapped by it and struggled to escape. But the vet says it looks as if it had been chopped off deliberately. If so, I am appalled by such cruelty to a beautiful animal
😿😿😿
That is heartbreaking news.🙀
DeleteShe was at least found alive, and she is getting the best of attention, that she so needs + deserves. 😻
Perhaps with your DiL being with her, this will so help puss. It is someone, who loves her and puss can feel wanted + relaxed. It might just help, being with a familiar person again. 🤗
I remember after awful USA wild fires, seeing a documentary about affected animals. The point is this-
DeleteOne family escaped but they couldn't rescue their cat, as no idea where it was.
This was found, quite badly burnt and cowering in a stream, by the USA rspca. It was taken to a centre, and it was v. poorly, touch n go. The family were franticly, searching through all the animal rescue sites, just in case. They came to this site, looked at all the cats none of which seemed to be theirs - until a poorly cat meowed. It was theirs but they couldn't recognise it, but the cat recognised them by the voices - the rest is history as cat made a full recovery.
Archerphile, the point is that there is hope - on hearing familar voices and recognising familiar smells, which will so help.
I just love the garden photo, which is not my garden, in any way just now.
ReplyDeleteMy snowdrop clumps are looking good, so to give another good show again this year.
However, none of my other bulbs, be new or old, are even appearing.
Perhaps with these now cold + frosty mornings, it will start them off.
To the true gardeners - a question.
Am I right in that cold + frost is needed, to get bulbs doing what is required of them?
I do hope so. Thanks to the bad bout of bronchitis which kept me indoors for half October and most of November, I was so late planting my new ones I'll be grateful if any come up at all.
ReplyDeleteSo Novak Djokovic, has been able to by pass all the visa requirements, along with covid passports etc. to now enter OZ and so to play in the Australian Open.
ReplyDeleteWhy is there one rule for one - when others have suffered so much, whilst obeying and complying, with all the rules + regulations, to the detriment to seeing our many families + friends.
I just feel so angry! 😨
In my case, this was and still is, the Welsh/English border with the still ongoing differing rules.
DeleteAs for the Deva football stadium..it is just so silly and will end in tears ⚽️ 🥅 and possible closure.
.
But are you surprised?
ReplyDeleteARCHERPHILE -
ReplyDeleteThe report of your family cat in France, is not I’m afraid so unusual.
Not sure how to respond to news that such cruelty happens in France as happens here.
I have always suspected that it was the deliberate and horrific cruelty to her cat, by boys that she worked with in a youth centre near her house, that led my sister to become a sociologist.
And children who are cruel to animals often grow into adults who inflict cruelty on humans.
I am very sorry for your family and hope that Miriam’s story of recovery helps you to feel some optimism.
Cruelty to animals is a world-wide problem. We recently had an incident here where a goat (family pet) was taken from its home and decapitated. Just for the hell of it, I expect. But the other side of the coin is the amazing work done by many organisations and groups working with animals and birds on a daily basis. We have an albatross colony close to where I live and it has a 24 hour webcam operating. It is nesting time here and the egg is due to hatch very soon. People all over the world are following the albatross story every day. If you want to check it out you can see it at - doc.govt.nz/nature/native-animals/birds/birds-a-z/albatrosses/royal-albatross-toroa/royal-cam/royal-cam-2021-discussion/ - or just google royal cam and it will take you there.
ReplyDeleteI warn you, though, it can be such a time-waster. I can happily spend all day just watching mum or dad sitting serenely on the nest.
Makes me cold just watching it! Is it always that windy?
DeleteI was surprised to see they've been incubating the eggs since November. So I've been googling various birds. Garden birds seem to be about a couple of weeks. The longest I've found is the poor penguin - 65 to 75 days.
Incubation is about 11 weeks and then it takes the chick anything up to a week to hatch. The rangers often take the eggs away during hatching and replace with a dummy egg. Fly strike is a serious problem for the hatching eggs as the babies emerge at the height of summer.
DeleteAlways windy at Taiaroa Head. Albys need strong winds to land and to fledge. They only come on land to nest. The rest of the time they are in the air or on the sea. It always amazes me when the chicks fledge in September. From never having flown at all they launch themselves off the top of the cliff and fly (actually, they glide) all the way to the west coast of South America, where they remain for 4 or more years. Then back they come to breed and begin the next generation.
I know I'm an old fool, but every year when we watch the webcam chick leave I have a few tears. Then wait with bated breath for the returning adults.
Djokovic! 😡 I am so cross he is being allowed to stay and play in the Australian Open (so far anyway) Total lack of respect for the citizens of Australia. “I want I get” He would do better to follow our Queens example - for the good of all not personal gratification.
ReplyDeleteRant over!
If he does play I can’t think he will be well received and could get some hostility from the spectators. If he had any integrity he would just go home. Fair enough if he doesn’t want the vaccine but don’t put others in danger of infection.
Delete...or use his power, wealth and influence to circumvent the necessary rules which have caused so much pain and hardship to those of us who followed them.
ReplyDeleteI was bracing myself all through this evening's news bulletin for more of this irritating egotist, but tonight he was seriously upstaged by the prime minister.
That's not intended as a political comment, just a statement of fact.
…and of course Prince Andrew, quite a trio!
DeleteI imagine there must be more evidence against Prince Andrew than the photograph we are often shown. I have an identical photo taken with the captain of a local ferry boat on our favourite Greek island. His day-excursions were always a focal point of our visits to the island, he is a bit of a local character and liked being photographed with his lady passengers. In this case the photo is not evidence of anything other than a thoroughly enjoyable day on the sea and I'm glad it was taken, as it seems unlikely that I will ever travel on his boat again.
DeleteI wouldn’t like to speculate on Andrew’s guilt or innocence. However, he was very stupid to get involved with such awful people and it is unforgivable that he invited them to Her Majesty’s estate.
DeleteArcherfile I hope so much your family's cat recovers. Cruelty to animals is a horrible thing. It made me remember a time when I was just 18 and doing voluntary work for a year in a home for what was then called maladjusted children. Some of the children ran indoors to tell me one of the boys was pulling the wings off a baby bird, and by the time I got there he had. It was my turn to oversee the tea time meal, and instead of giving the boy his meal I placed a plate with the bird on it in front of him , and told him the only reason for killing an animal was if it was needed for food. I once told a friend of this and she thought I had been very cruel because his behaviour must have stemmed from his upbringing, which I am sure it did. My intention was to shock him and make him think in the hope he didn't do similar again.
ReplyDeleteThe upbringing may well be the reason but it's not an excuse. Someone had to point out that pulling the wings off a bird wouldn't change anything.
ReplyDeleteAlthough such actions mat be frowned upon these days, and possibly then, I applaud you, especially if it could be coupled with some discussion about his behaviour. I have to ask, albeit in bad taste, did you cook the bird?
ReplyDeleteNooo, not big enough, just a baby sparrow. I wish I knew how the lad had turned out. I was not there long, going on to study afterwards and eventually to a social work course that taught me more acceptable ways of dealing with things. But I do think that even skilled discussion doesn't always work, whereas a vivid pictorial action can with some personalities. I am still in touch with someone who was a child in the Home and who often stayed at my parents farm, and in the Autumn visited her in Edinburgh where she is unfortunately now in a Nursing Home. So I know how she and her siblings and a few of the others turned out, but not that particular family.
DeleteRe:Whoops, Error
ReplyDeleteJust now I opened the blog to read a new post and got the dreaded message just for scrolling down to the end.
I am permitted to post without further comment. It obviously didn"t like the way I touched the screen!
Is it possible that you ladies with tablets are being too rough with Mr Google?
AP how upsetting. how cruel. Thank goodness she was found & is having treatment.
ReplyDeleteOur tortie Amy who came to France with us disappeared & we never found her. Later a neighbour told us that they'd seen her after she'd eaten baited food left down for vermin. Well thanks a lot.
Thanks to everyone for their comments. Sorry to have started discussion about animal cruelty and some horrendous remembrances and stories.
ReplyDeleteI’ve heard that Plume (her name, ironically given because of her long feathery tail!) is now back home after spending a night at the vets. They have patched her up but the wound is infected and she is very thin after being missing for 3 weeks with little food.
But the family will nurse and pamper her and I’m keeping fingers crossed for a good recovery, even without her tail.
I am so glad that things are progressing so well.
DeleteRemember a Manx cat, doesn't have a tail.
Plume is a true survivor. She showed this after being shut in for 3 weeks, which I hadn't realised was that long.
Very sorry about the poor cat Archerphile, I hope she survives and more importantly, is pain free.
ReplyDeleteI just don't understand that type of cruelty/violence
Neither do I.
DeleteA cat of mine, about 20yrs ago, returned home after going awol for nearly 24hrs. She was obviously injured + hurt and the vet found she had a gun pellet in her rump, so had been shot!
No way could she be confused for a rabbit/fox or similar, as she was white with randomblack "spots" in her fur. It was assumed she was used for target practice. She survived after op. + antibiotics.
I have loved listening to, over the last couple days, the latest Dr. Finlay episodes.
ReplyDeleteI am having a break away, just for a short while.
ReplyDeleteI am posting too often again.
This is due to my posting, far too often, which is not liked
DeleteI will be back in a week, or so.
In the meantime:-
All - keep warm, stay healthy, eat + sleep well, look after your pets - and my any problems be resolved suitably.
I wasn't getting at you on the other blog, Miriam, I was trying to show you that your posts weren't disappearing as often as you thought.
DeleteArcherfile, do the new rules about visitors from the UK mean that you will be able to visit your son in France soon?
ReplyDeleteArcherphile. Great News as you can now go to France for your long awaited, wonderul family reunion.
ReplyDeleteGet those plane tickets booked, to be there for the February half term school hols. 🤗
PS Take the Christmas Pudding etc. with you.
DeleteI still haven't cut into my Christmas Cake yet.
Would love to Miriam but the family have booked a skiing holiday in Andorra for the whole of half term week!
DeleteWe’ll plan to go a little later, perhaps in the Easter holidays.
Just testing. I normally use my PC or old Android tablet (which hasn't had any updates for ages) to post. Thought I'd try my phone which is newer and has the latest Android version on it.
ReplyDeleteThat seemed to work
DeleteMy new, costly + updated Android 'phone, is just 3 months old. It is only whilst using this that my posting problems, have started.
DeleteI hope that this isn't a coincidence.
This new android 'phone of mine, is just brilliant.
DeleteAs this is the only site which I am having problems with, then this has to be accepted + understood.
My problem seems to be the length of a post, The longer ones dissappear, even after getting the message, "published" 😪
Like you Archerphile going to iOS 14 on my iPad seemed to cause grief, I am now on iOS 15 and it seems marginally better with regards to the blog although my iPad seems more inclined to crash which is a pain and the battery usage is all over the shop.
ReplyDeleteA source of pleasure at the moment is our bird feeder; we have a jay that has learnt from the tits and is enjoying the peanuts, a couple of chaffinches who think they’re humming birds, a ginormous pheasant (I think the local shoot has given them steroids to make them easier to hit) and what I think is a long tailed tit, a first for me but it always seems to be at the wrong angle for me to check it isn’t a wagtail.
I have updated today to 15.2.1 here’s hoping! (Do it mainly to keep security up to scratch)
DeleteIf it's on its own it's probably a wagtail. Longtailed tits are a noisy bunch and the appearance of one usually heralds the arrival of many more.
ReplyDeleteWish we had some birds. All we seem to have is 3 fat wood pigeons. Instead feeding 4 squirrels which are Daphnes nemesis.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely + heartfelt story I have just read.
ReplyDeleteThis is a couple, now 100 + 102 years of age, celebrating their 81st wedding anniversary, after marrying in 1941.
This gives me such a good feel feeling, such that life can go on, regardless of all the problems experienced along the way.
What a lucky couple.
DeleteI’ve had confirmation this afternoon that my car is ready for collection.
ReplyDeleteI’ve bought my rail ticket for Sunday, and the mechanic has kindly offered to collect me from the train at Truro and take me to the car.
My friend in the next town will have Lady for a couple of days and will also drive me to Cheltenham to get on the train on Sunday.
My dear friend of many decades will be paying the invoice on my behalf this evening.
Despite the poor situation with my daughters, I feel blessed.
Three men living in Cornwall, two of them completely unknown to me, have been incredibly kind, and have put themselves out to help me.
I would appreciate suggestions as to how to thank them.
Were they women I would send flowers.
One way that I’ve thought of is money behind the bar at the pub nearby the garage. But that would entail one of them not driving. However the garage owner lives very nearby I think, so might be able to walk.
I’m sure helping you has been a pleasure for them knowing how much you have appreciated their help and support. How about nice thank you cards and some tins of really nice biscuits🤔
DeleteThat's good news Mrs P, glad it is all nearly sorted.
ReplyDeletemoney at the bar sounds good, provided they actually like it there
I used to give people bottles of alcohol, if they had done me a favour,
usually whiskey, because if they didn't like it, it would make a good gift for someone who did.
How lovely to read of people's kindness in contrast to the story of poor Plume. I like the idea of thank you cards and some good biscuits or maybe some nice chocolates. I cannot bear cruelty of any kind and hate of hear about it. I hope Plume makes a good recovery.
DeleteMrs P, you will know the feeling you get when you do something for somebody which that person truly appreciates .
ReplyDeleteIt is true that it is more blessed to give than to receive
You get more pleasure seeing how delighted somebody is who has been helped by you.
The person who gives that help wants nothing more than to be thanked.
No reciprocal present is necessary.
The best thing you can do for the kind people who helped you is to write a letter of thanks to them-a proper letter not an email. .If someone has done something special whilst working for someone else then a letter to the CEO of the Company in addition would be a good idea.
Since you do not know these people personally it would be difficult to decide what to buy them
You might like to give a small donation to a Charity instead.
That way there is another winner.
If I were one of those kind people that is what I would prefer.
Great News Mrs P.
ReplyDeleteWhat supportive friends and unknown persons, you are having over this ordeal.
I am like you, who likes to acknowledge good service, but in a simple way.
My thought - but this depends if there is a good bakery nearby - is to arrange a delivery of Cornish Pasties or similar.
Simple but tasty.
When I was working, it was always so nice when I was thanked - be it with flowers, a card, an e-mail etc. but what meant so much were the more simplistic things.
DeleteThis could be:- a muffin, a bunch of wild flowers, a massive hug, or some-one who just popped in to say "Thank-you" in person.
Little + simple things do mean a lot.
When I resigned from my work, not knowing what I would do next - I arranged a delivery to my now "ex" staff for the day after. This was a tray of cakes of varying sorts. These were eclairs, doughnuts, iced buns, danish pastries, muffins, strawberry tarts etc.
DeleteIt was simple, but it was very appreciated.
Tonight Helen Monks (PipArcher until 2014) is on “Pointless” not a watch for me these days but I will pop in to this episode just to see her and to see if I can recognise her voice albeit that she used her own 🤔
ReplyDeleteSadly, Pointless is one of my now no watch programmes, as is also Countdown.
DeleteI still enjoy The Chase though..
She certainly sounds nothing like as annoying as original Pip when she appears in Upstart Crow!
DeleteI didn’t watch the programme just the intros and I did not recognise Helen’s voice as the previous Pip.
DeleteApologies all, for posting too much and too often.
ReplyDeleteI am having a much delayed post Lockdown/ Covid syndrome.
This is only due to a silly fear, of being in a crowded place with many persons close around me.
I have just got too used to being home alone.
I will overcome this..😀
My week of no posting - starts NOW!!
DeleteRoast Pork is in the oven, which will be eaten whilst watching The Masked Singer. A silly show I know, but it amuses me, which says a lot about me 🤣😉🤭
Miriam, many people are feeling the effects of the last two years. Having hardly been in a shop and doing shopping online I have no desire at all to venture into town. I think it is a loss of confidence and the other day I went up to the village beauty shop(no, it doesn’t work for me! ) and the beauty lady said she feels exactly the same. There’s nothing silly about it but it just shows how we are conditioned by events.
DeleteQuick update on Plume. A follow up visit to vet this morning. Not happy with way wound healing so it has been tidied up a bit and stapled (ouch). On antibiotics of course as it’s still infected.
ReplyDeleteHave seen a photo of her cuddled up with her sister and she is about now half the size, having lost so much weight when trapped. But is feeding well now and purring a lot when stroked.
😻😸
DeleteBetter news than might have been expected ARCHERPHILE.
DeleteWe must all hope for this recovery to continue.
Lady is now with my friend in the next town for a couple of days.
My friend took me to our local station to collect my ticket to Truro which I booked online last night. Website said booking office open until 2.45.
We arrived at 1.50 and the notice on the door gave opening hours as closing at 1.30. !!!!!!!
We walked the dogs, and friend took me to Sainsburys, where I bought three boxes of chocolate biscuits as my thanks to my three Cornish hero’s.
Thank you ladies for suggestions.
Miriam - I just want to thank you for the recommendation to listen to Behind Closed Doors. I've listened to a few of the episodes and find them enjoyable and interesting.
ReplyDeleteI hope that Plume recovers well. Poor kitty.
You should also look at :- "24, Kildare Road". It is on Sounds for over a year, and is just interesting, as to how it is done. It needs listening to in "blocks", so as not to lose the thread.
DeleteThank you Miriam. I will look it up.
DeleteLady R ,I tried to find Pip but couldn't recognise her .
ReplyDeleteComment further up Lanjan- I did not recognise Helen Monks as Pip either!
DeleteUnfortunately Helen Monks and her partner were the first to be eliminated so we didn’t much chance to see or hear her. She was on the first podium.
DeleteVery pretty and not sounding in the slightest like the teenage Pip
I've just caught up on all the posts on this thread and this message is for Miriam:
ReplyDeleteDear Miriam, please do not stop posting, even for a day or two. Your posts are chatty, friendly, speculative and interesting to read. They are never mean-spirited, overbearing, condescending or nasty in any way. You are exactly the sort of poster that helps threads like this thrive. You keep it up, girl!
👍👍👍
DeleteArcherphile ,has your son left Dubai for good now?
ReplyDeleteI went there at the start of 1996 and then again about 10 years later when it was like a huge building site.
I decided to watch a programme about Dubai on TV recently and I can honestly say -apart from not having to pay tax* that it holds absolutely no attraction for me and I am unable to comprehend -apart from * why people would want to live there..
Do you know what I must be missing?
I made a vow of silence, but I am breaking it, for one reason only.
ReplyDeleteA grand-nephew, who is only 5 + 1/2yrs of age, tested +ve this morning. He is very excited as to have a week off school, but it is causing problems with his parents, re work + care.
Then there is his brother, not yet 3 yrs old. 😨
My OZ niece + her hubbie, met in Tonga. This was also the place, where they got engaged and still have lots of friends living there.
DeleteThey are both quite frantic, as after the volcanic eruption + tsanumi, there has been no possible communications.
So it is 🤞🤞 that all is as it should be 😀✔
My Vow of Silence - is now starting yet again - be it for the 4th attempt.
ReplyDeleteI would never be suitable as a candidate to enter a convent, as I am sadly, far too vocal.
Give it up, Miriam!😊
DeleteWhy the total silence Miriam? If you think you post too much just do a little less, no need to stop completely.
ReplyDeleteYou’ve got a point there about the number of blogs rather than the length.
ReplyDeleteJust have a think about the logistics of the blog Miriam. No need for flouncing off. Just trying to ease the burden on Gary, who seems to be busy with other stuff rather than this blog all the time.
LanJan - yes our son has left Dubai for good now. He was just on a 3 year contract to work in Airbus’s office there and is now permanently back in Toulouse.
ReplyDeleteWe have just watched the 3rd programme in the series on
BBC2 about Dubai, and frankly, we were horrified. Apparently the filming was overseen by representatives of the government there and there were people who couldn’t be interviewed and questions that couldn’t be asked. We felt it was very biased towards the super rich
and almost an advert for incredibly expensive properties and holidays,
There was nothing about the lives of immigrant workers, their living and working conditions. The whole emphasis was on the Palm Jameria complex and luxury hotel building.
Mr H and I commented that if we hadn’t already been to Dubai and experienced normal life
there with the family we should certainly not want to go, having seen those 3 programmes.
Just after seeing the excessive wealth in Dubai we watched ITN News with a film about the appalling condition of families starving in Afghanistan
The contrast couldn’t have been more dramatic or sickening.
What got me ,Archerphile was all these young women with trout pouts.
ReplyDeleteOne day they will be old ladies with trout pouts.
When I was there I found the climate was too hot and humid and that was February
What is is like in July I dread to think.
I'm quite sorry I won't be around to see what the 80yr old ta''oos look like.
ReplyDeleteOoh Sarnia, I'm very glad I won't see them. When I was nursing, it was sad seeing those poor old men, always men in those days, with faded, wilting snakes and anchors, withering away.
ReplyDeleteMy soon has a tattoo across his whole back, it looks horrible now, it will be ghastly if he gets to be my age.
Ugh to the old men! It so often seems to be the 'big girls' who go in for them - a gesture of defiance I suppose - but I saw one once with climbing roses growing all the way up one leg, and thought Um!
ReplyDeleteCould someone please tell me what a ‘trout pout’ is ?
ReplyDeleteI agree about the tattoos.
I’ve known one or two woman who had tattoos when young and regretted them when middle aged and went through removal.
Expensive and painful I believe.
Esscee - I’m sorry to hear that you thought that you were amongst those accused of bullying Miriam last year, and as a consequence have posted less frequently.
ReplyDeleteI hope through still reading, you know that Miriam herself trounced the person who made that accusation, and that that person has not posted since.
Clever Miriam I say !
However another contributor does seem to have dropped out of our discussions, since then and if still reading there in Alsace, I would very much like her to return, as she is still missed.
Hear, hear Mrs P. I miss her greatly too.
DeleteBotox injections in the lips, Mrs P, meant to make them fuller and more alluring, (depending on your definition of "alluring'). Often goes wrong, leaving lips all thick and blubbery, like a trout.
ReplyDeleteNot Botox. Fillers. Looks ruddy ridiculous.
DeleteGoodness me !
DeleteSounds horrible - to do and to see.
I’m very pleased that I’ve always accepted the way I looked, when young and now. Never really wanted to change anything then, and know that I can’t change anything now.
Remember when Lesley Ash (I think was her name) who was in ‘Men Behaving Badly’ had this done several years ago and her lips swelled alarmingly and absolutely ruined her looks. She was unable to get acting jobs for a long time afterwards which was a shame because she was a very good actress.
DeleteMy sister has regular Botox - does wonders for her emerging wrinkles.
Delete'Though, to be fair, it also does wonders for her migraines, which are the real reason she has it.
I knew a girl with cerebral palsy some time again. A dose of Botox would relax the muscles in her feet sufficiently for the physio to exercise them.
Both these treatments seem rather more useful than ironing out a few frown/laughter lines.
Do women with trout pouts become old trouts as they age?
My niece and hubbie in OZ, are in a bad way.
ReplyDeleteThey met each other in Tonga, and some years later, they then got engaged whilst on a holiday in Tonga.
They are frantic, as they cannot get in touch with all their friends there, who they know so well, as to know if they are safe + well.
It must be an awful time for them, Miriam, and even more so for their friends on Tonga. Praying they're OK.
DeleteWe had similar fears last year when the earthquake hit Haiti. A girl we sponsor lives in the affected region and it was sometime before we received confirmation that she was alive and well. As far as we can ascertain, the rest of her family is OK too. Their house was destroyed though.
Keep us posted Miriam
The OZ "Hubbie" who is British, lived + worked in Tonga for 2 years, before the holiday fling with my niece...
DeleteI hope your relatives friends are safe and well Miriam.
DeleteGood news today, that the airport was being cleaned up with basic tools and labour, and that the Australian government was sending supplies as soon as it becomes safe to land.
See it’s a bit quiet on here. Too much going on on other blog site I guess.
ReplyDeleteIt is. I have said my thoughts there ,rightly or probably wrongly. 🤷♀️
DeleteBlow up my profile pic.
ReplyDeleteLook at that number plate. Couldn’t believe it. Saw that in our local supermarket car park. Have seen it round town a few times now.
Can’t blow it up on my screen PtbY.
DeleteIt says P5 TBY
DeleteSo I see ptby - ooh get you 👍 🤗
DeleteI recently drove behind a milk cart in the nearby country lanes, as it was do doing its regular milk deliveries.
ReplyDeleteI nearly crashed my car!
My late fathers initials were BJW.
The reg. of this milk float was:-
BJW 100. It was so strange to see this.
I bet it did Miriam!
DeleteHow lovely to read on the other page, as to how many are in personal contact with others, so to give help + support, in whatever way.
ReplyDeleteIt is so heart-warming to know this, and that good does happen.
If I get put down yet again, then I do accept + understand this. I have only given my thoughts 😭 🙊
DeleteWe all give our thoughts Miriam, yours are just as valid as everyone else's.
DeleteMiriam
DeleteYou have in the past shown a very good example of ‘ getting over it’
I for one am pleased your still with us.
You often bring a lighter touch.
Thank you
I have been unable to post on the other side.
Keep getting the ‘WHOOPS’
I have finally got over my 2years of Covid fears and my sort of isolation, just me + Pusscat..
DeleteWhat a difference life now seems..and I no longer have "anxiety" dreams. These were weird, eg trying to find a loo when desparate, trying to catch a plane when ticket/passport are missing, still working with problems, sitting an exam when revised the wrong subject....and it goes on.
These dreams were purely just anxiety driven. I would also wake up with the clamping + grinding, of my teeth together again, not done since I left work!
Complete freedom from any Government instructions next Monday Miriam then just personal choice. Doubt we will be ditching masks and gel immediately though.
DeleteOops next Thursday (onwards) then maybe everything gone on March 24th - umm the day before Mr R’s birthday and although a special one will not be rushing to have more than a quiet time with close friends.
DeleteArcherfile and Sarnia, I have seen your posts on the other blog and I can see why you reacted as you did. I’m so sorry, Archerfile that you had to endure taunts in your growing up and were refused membership of the tennis club. I fail to see what tennis has to do with one’s faith! Sarnia, your faith had to be strong to stand against the views of those around you and I admire that. It wasn’t Jews who crucified Christ but human frailty and crowd hysteria. As for the lay reader making anti Semitic remarks, that’s their problem not yours. There is too much hypocrisy in every religion!
ReplyDeleteLike others I was saddened by the ructions on the other blog, reading through I couldn’t understand how it had escalated, the last few messages gave me some insight. I have always enjoyed Archerphile’s and Sarnia’s contributions and hope that this blog can continue to stagger along despite the posting problems some of us, including myself, have. I blame Apple!
ReplyDeletemuch ❤️ to all.
ReplyDeleteF-i-l no.1 had no. plate JDX1, returned to car one day to find KDX1 parked next to it.
ReplyDeleteAmazing.
DeleteBefore Christmas my husband parked in a large retail park car park and realised he was parked behind our old car that we’d part exchanged about 2 yrs earlier! Never had that happen before.
Once crossing the bridge from Wales to Bristol with a friend and there in front of us was her car from previous years.
DeleteIt’s a small world.
Mrs P if you tap on a bloggers name it will bring up the profile photo on its own screen you can then expand it with your thumb and forefinger - not the best quality but can certainly see more detail, handy for our artists work too! When done just pinch picture back to size and click on the large left hand arrow at the top of the page to return to the blog.
DeleteSome years back some friends called by but we were out however they were stunned to see that our neighbours car was one of their previous vehicles 😳
Oh !
DeleteYes.
Forgotten you could do that.
Thank you Lady R.
Good morning.
ReplyDeleteI’m making this comment here so that The Archers blog remains free to make episode comments.
I don’t often post here but popped in to support Archerphile.
Some religious sects have a long history of proselytising their beliefs and with that created myths that resulted in harassment and persecution. Carolyn’s comments are a reflection of how this mythology has promoted individuals to carry out acts hatred in order to demonstrate their prejudices.
The last time I posted was in response to Miriam’s claim that she was “being picked on”.
I don’t care how many posts she makes nor how interesting they may or may not be. What I do find a bit odd is that you, Miriam acknowledge the number of post you make, say you will take some time out, but fail to change your behaviour. Unlike you I will write this in one go it doesn’t make sense to use the blog for in this way. Do what you say or don’t do it!!
The way we use language on here is also an issue, at least for me. When someone says they aren’t going to comment, they are accused of Flouncing off. This a negative word to what the user of the word perceives to be an exaggerated and annoying behaviour and gives the impression their behaviour is childish and inappropriate. Everyone is has the right to make decisions/ choices and Archphile’s comments have always been thoughtful and are reflective of an adult making a choice based on her perceptions. If we find such comments offensive then the issue says more about us the the actual comment.
We all act in the here and now but that is done through our level of self awareness, skill and ability to look over and beyond the fence/wall hear the experience of other and empathise. The voice on the other side may have a differ t story to tell.
Have a good day.
Stasia…… your ‘Shalom’ meant so much to me yesterday, I bless you for it .
DeleteCaroline….. your post also lifted my spirits because you had insight into my feelings as a member of a minority faith and spoke up for me so eloquently. I thank you and bless you too.
To both of you……I am so touched that you both broke a long silence to post and it is lovely to know that you are both still out there reading our comments, if not commenting yourselves. I would love to know that Basia is still with us too.
Others commented about the strength many of us have received from these blogs during the past couple of years and I am certainly grateful for that.
My ‘explosion’ yesterday was not typical of me and I am now rather ashamed of making a fuss and causing distress to others. A lifetime of prejudice came to a head with all the religious content in TA over the past few months, culminating in the anti-semitism I encountered in my own village from a senior member of the church. Hence the use of the ‘p’ word which didn’t occur to me would cause distress to Sarnia and Mrs P.
As Maryellen predicted, I probably will begin to comment again in due course, (providing I can figure out the Internet mechanics which have taken 3 attempts to post this!)
In the meantime I shall most certainly keep reading.
This is my third time responding Archphile.
DeleteThank you.
Please don’t castigate you self. I agreed with your comment and if I could make only one change it would be Proselytise to:replace Propaganda.
DeleteThat would have to happen on the other blog.
ARCHERPHILE -
ReplyDeleteI’m pleased to see that you are still reading.
Yesterday you made an apology to me, and in your comment above, you mentioned me again.
Please AP, it’s not necessary to apologise to me.
I was not offended by your comments, simply mildly irritated by your use of the word propaganda. I also felt, again mildly, as Sarnia had said, that the followers of Christianity are often disrespected, when other religious beliefs are not.
No offence was taken by me. And I do not need any apologies. Nevertheless thank you for doing so.
You have said you regret using that word, and I agree that proselytise would have been better.
I’m pleased that you have given further thought to posting, and I hope you will continue to do so.
I feel now that for the sake of us all we should draw a line under this subject.
Agreed!
DeleteI saw the Beluga fly past again today. I always think of Archerphile, when this happens.
ReplyDeleteIt was an old one and very noisy!
I could hear it, before seeing it.
Now the covid restrictions are being lifted next week, I will become a Chester Zoo member again probably in February.
The time is right. Spring is approaching and the gardens always look good. I need the excercise whilst walking around and looking at the wonderful animals again.
PS It is really good value, as it is only about £100 for a "senior" year pass, which gives unlimited access for 12 months. This means, that it is so easy to just pop in for an hour or two, when I feel like it as just a short drive away. It only takes about 15mins.
DeleteIT and the needed technology is suddenly passing me by.
ReplyDeleteI went onine this morning, to just pay my window cleaner (who came last week) and pay a credit card balance (Xmas pressies + sale items I treated myself to). What a long time it took to do, what to me, were just simple tasks.
It was the extra codes asked for to then be put in, which were to come via a text message.These were never received.
It was finally sorted, but it took a long time plus a lot of patience, to do 2 simple bank transactions just pay my "bills".
I've been battling with technology over the last week while doing my annual update of all my online accounts. I've been gradually changing from an old email address to a newer one and changing some passwords which were less secure. Websites vary so much, some are so easy to navigate and others nearly impossible. I empathise with you Miriam over the text messages, my phone's been pinging a lot this afternoon much to Mr CC's annoyance.
ReplyDeleteWell done LIVERPOOL
ReplyDelete⚽️ What about poor Mr R though Lanjan 🤣
DeleteDoes he support Arsenal Lady R?
ReplyDeleteIndeed Lanjan - plus Portsmouth he and his mate of many years used to regularly attend their matches some time back now.
DeleteIt appears from what I can gather that Arsenal (like the England cricket team) are either on top form or rubbish 😳
Mr R played a lot of sports in his youth - opening batsman for the our town cricket team, Goalkeeper for a local village, plus golf etc etc. All (happy) memories now. Was Mr LJ a sports lover and have you always enjoyed football?
What lovely light afternoons, are now suddenly appearing again. This is so welcome.
ReplyDeleteDid anyone watch "Winterwatch" last night?
I loved seeing the pole-cats, but what I was very enthused about was, the remnants of a sea eagle nest, which were taken + tested, to see what was caught, and then fed to the young birds.
As for the size of the "nest" and its construction, amazing!
Yes Miriam we have been watching! Last night was on catch-up due to football! I love that they have kept the well-being slot that started during the 2020 lockdown it is just magical 🦅 🐥 🦉
DeleteToday I received an interesting letter, which relates to the UK Avian Bird 'flu epidemic. I am apparanetly, living in a red hot spot. This letter was to give all, an e-mail site, 'phone numbers etc. so to report any sightings of birds of any type, who are either dead or look poorly.
ReplyDeleteHas any-one like me, been reading the new Highway Codes, coming into force next week?
ReplyDeleteI respect these, as to the protection of cyclists, "mums with prams", pedestrians etc. but I can see many problems to motorists.
When I am driving home, I need to turn off a very busy road, to then go onto much quieter ones to get home. It seems that cyclists etc. have priority, if they are about to cross the quieter road at this turn off. I can envisge having to suddenly slow or even stop, if this occurs - but will the car behind me also be able to react??
I need to read it all again, but it doesn't seem at all straight forward.
I might have mis-understood, which I appreciate + acknowledge.
Not aware of this change Miriam so must investigate…..
DeleteSomeone on here introduced me to a godfather cocktail. Just to say. I have a bottle of Cointreau and a bottle of dissarono so I thought I’d try equal measures of each as a cocktail. Bloody amazing. Can’t recommend enough. 😍
ReplyDeleteMight have been me as am very partial to a Godfather! Your new creation sounds lovely!🍹🍹🍹Cheers!
DeleteTo answer your question ,Lady R ,yes I have always liked cricket and football
ReplyDeleteMr LJ also liked both but we supported different teams for both sports.
He supported Sussex and Brentford who sadly were promoted to the Premiership too late for him to enjoy that.
Thank you for your reply Lanjan. I can get the gist of most sports except Cricket 🏏
DeleteI totally agree with the hilarious item where this sport is explained to a non cricket person such as myself you will know it I’m sure 🤣
The three sports I know most about are, golf, tennis + cricket.
ReplyDeleteI am OK with Rugby U. but as to the rest, I can just watch + enjoy in my own way.
I am looking forward to the Winter Olympics, which is now not that far away, and so to admire the many skills shown.
I just love the Olympics, be it Summer or Winter.
DeleteIs any-one here a twin?
ReplyDeleteIf so, has it made a difference to your life, as you envisaged it??
Just curious. 🤷♀️
I am busy cooking a meal, which will do at least 5 further ones. It will be a pulled gammon/vegetable casserole, and doing a red cabbage dish at the same time.
ReplyDeleteAs a result of my cooking - I now have a steam scald/burn on a wrist. I did the usual 15mins under cold running water, but it is still producing a blister in a red area...
What will be will be - and meal will be tasty.
PS As having just "pulled" the gammon joint apart, I have put a lot aside to be frozen, to then create a gammon/onion/apricot quiche.
DeleteWhat cheap meals are being created, (about 8 or more now) from what was a £4 slab of gammon! It takes time, but it is so worthwhile, as cost effective and yummy. It is well doing the effort involved.
We’re having duck which was intended for New Year but other menus got in the way! I did my orange sauce then and froze it so not too much work tonight! It is a duck crown and some of the online revues said it was not good as not much meat on it. The thing about ducks is they don’t have the plumpness of chickens and what looks substantial usually consists of a lot of infrastructure and not a lot of flesh. If you fattened them too much, they would sink! What there is though is very tasty!
DeleteHope the wrist is better soon Miriam
DeleteI like the sound of your gammon with apricots in a quiche. I have only used pineapple with gammon meals so will give your idea a go. Better still my daughter likes new recipes so I will tell her about it.
DeleteWe have a duck farm locally with Appleyard ducks, and the young couple running it open a duck truck cooking van on Friday and Saturday evenings with duck pizzas, duck burgers, tacos and, my favourite, duck salad with home made coleslaw and chips. Friday is our no cooking fish and chips night but sometimes we go to the duck truck for a treat.
The duck truck sounds amazing, Janice. I wish we had one here!
DeleteTo Janice. My "gammon/apricot quiche" is a made-up one.
ReplyDeleteI caramalise a red onion, put this into the partially pre-baked pastry case. I add the shredded cooked gammon, along with some finely chopped ready-to-eat dried apricots, not too much as to the sweetness.
The rest is the usual egg/milk/herbs etc. mixture to taste, and then cooked to suit. As a non cheese eater, this suits my palate.
It is just my take on the traditional - egg/bacon/cheese quiche.
PS Every time I make this, it always turns out a bit different. It always is very edible + tasty though!
DeleteThanks Miriam. I have some dried apricots left over from making the Christmas pudding so will use them and try your recipe. I made a cherry and blueberry crumble for Sunday tea and that was nice with custard.
DeleteWhere is every-one?
ReplyDeleteI so wish to hear the end of Mrs P's car situation, along with those who have plans to move home, and how these plans are progressing.
Then there are to me, so many, who are now very silent.
I, for one, miss their valuable input, of many interesting topics.
....books being read, how gardens are doing, reading interesting sports comments, and just how All Are.
DeletePS I was thrilled to see a GB skiier, winning the Kitzbuhl Slalom..🇬🇧⛷
Miriam - I’m sure I did write that I’ve been home with my car last Monday.
DeleteAll is not well with me at present, hence little I put on here, plus the difficulties in posting.
Not a lot to report Miriam. We're just doing a lot of sorting out now that the decorator has finished painting the hall, stairs and landing.
ReplyDelete"Silence is the garden of thought" (Nathaniel Hawthorne) so maybe lots of thoughts will emerge tomorrow. 😊
ReplyDeleteHappy Burns Night - to all have a Scottish heritage.
ReplyDeleteHaggis, neeps + tatties is a wonderful meal. 🏴
I am sure GG + Mr. GG will be enjoying tonight.
DeleteWe were on a Fred cruise a few years ago on Burns night and the starter was a mini haggis, needs and tattles. It was accompanied by a wee dram of not very nice whisky which perked up considerably with the addition of a drop of water. Apparently this is the way to take your whisky and never over ice!
DeleteOnce in the Naval mess I said the Grace:
Some hae meat and canna eat
And some wad eat that want it
But we hae meat
And we can eat
And sae the Lord be thankit!
This was because of my Scottish heritage but I never told them I had learnt it from the lid of a biscuit tin!!😉😁
Happy Burns night to all!
Night night
ReplyDeleteRe deer on the other blog. It sounds as if Mr CC had a lucky escape but he must have been shocked. Katy hit a pigeon on the M6 and it took out one of her headlights. I can only imagine the damage a large animal could cause. Mike always said you should never swerve to avoid an animal as it could cause a serious accident to you and anyone in your path. Very hard to do as instinctively you would want to miss the animal.
ReplyDeleteMy mother was driving her parents old Morris car when she hit a horse in the New Forest. As long as I can remember that car had a big dent in one front bumper. There is now a speed limit in the Forest and most horses wear an iridescent collar but there are still many animals killed. It is one place where they are allowed to roam freely along with cattle and pigs. Pigs are let out in the autumn to forage for acorns which are very harmful to horses.
ReplyDeleteMrs P Whatever is wrong, I do hope things are improving. You are missed as are Archerphile and Sarnia.
I have written this on my old iPad - I’m having problems publishing on my new one!!!
I am still here Soz.
DeleteThank you for asking after me.
Too much of a personal nature to really talk about.
I will get through.
I was intrigued with last night's Winterwatch (Tuesday).
ReplyDeleteThis was the scenes of the white tailed eagle nest in Mull. The male bird was identified, with the help of BT in some way, to be one called Skye, ringed in 1998(?).
It was apparantley a star of a similar programme in 2005, along with his female mate. It is not known yet, if the female seen is the same one.
I hope so..as I love a romantic story.
Another animal story which as fascinated + intrigued me recently, is Jonathon, the giant tortoise.
ReplyDeleteHe lives on the pacific island of St. Helena, and is now believed to be about 190yrs of age. A 'photo taken in 1882, ages him then at about 50yrs.
I am looking forward to Marin Clune's final episode of his current series. This is that it concentrates on the Galapagos Islands, where I saw giant tortoises in the wild, and Lonesome George.
I spent a wonderful 7-days sailing around the islands, on a yatch in 2005. I visited so many wonderful islands, often in the very early morning (about a 6.00am start) and the amazing wild-life.
I expect to see a big difference in this programme, with the now commercialism and tourist trade.
This was a trip, I will never forget and also the 2 weeks spent in Ecuador.
DeleteSailing across the equator with champagne, on the bridge at night, was just magical.
Freeview tv's + boxes c
ReplyDeletehanged some channels today at midday.
My internet box has changed automatically, but I need to re-tune both my TV (even though a smart one) and my other HDD recorder.
This is for info. only.
Yes Marion we have had the message on our Smart tv to press the button and rescan for 3 days running now. The first time gave us the local bbc and itv we really like to see ie bbc South and itv Meridian those remained on the second scan but today gone again back to London only which is HD of course but local locals not but still a good picture when we can view them. This is much to do with 5G I believe and tv signals being moved and moved….
DeleteWe do have an Amazon fires stick as well as terrestrial tv which we use for catch up and many other formats.
Thinking of you Mrs P 💐
ReplyDeleteMe too, Mrs.P
ReplyDeleteDo hope your worries are taken from your shoulders as soon as is possible Mrs P 🦋
ReplyDeleteThank you.
ReplyDeleteAs there is no chat today, I will look in again.
ReplyDelete...at some time.
Delete..an extra. I am enjoying "After Henry" series 2, being broadcast I have not heard this before.
DeleteLoved “After Henry” Miriam - I shall now listen again 😊
Delete(Reply above to your recent tv updates post)
Lady R.
DeleteLike you after re-tuning my TV and my HDD, I also was also tuned into a different transmitter.
This is now Liverpool - but what a difference. All the images are now so much sharper and clear, regardless of what channel..
I am lucky, apparantely.
Miriam I did appreciate your effort the other day to combine blogs into one longer interesting post. It wouldn’t matter at all if it weren’t for the fact that a new blog should really be opened after 200 posts irrespective of their length.
ReplyDeleteI am intrigued to know what you were doing on the ship’s bridge drinking champagne at midnight!
Going by your current age was it a trip for a big birthday at that time Miriam 🤭
DeleteIt was..
Deleteand a trip of a life-time, thanks to an unexpected legacy from a Great Aunt.
Why be sensible?
I did what I wanted to do, with no regrets at all.
I had a wonderful, and unique experience.
Waste of time trying to explain why.
DeleteThe one place I really want to visit again, as I have mentioned previously, is:-
ReplyDeleteThe Terracotta Army site in China.
This is due to what is still being found.
I have read a lot about this recently, in that this 'burial' site took over 40yrs to plan + build, and this is why so much more is still being discovered.
On my previous visit, I actually met the farmer, who found the 1st warrior by accident, when digging a well.
Miriam, do you realise that you have posted more than 25% of the comments on this particular blog?
ReplyDeleteMay I suggest that you reread what you have written to see if perhaps you could have consolidated some of them?
31% actually LanJan!
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