Strawberry Jam Anne

A Happy New Year

2012-01-02T15:30:00.011Z

So another New Year begins and as usual I have feelings of trepidation about what this year has in store for me and my family. Christmas Day was very quiet for us but on Boxing Day our children and grandchildren decended on us and we had a lovely family day - 7 adults and 6 grandchildren. The only one missing is Leah who lives in New Zealand. Photo below of me with the 6.

Last year was fairly hectic. I had to spend a lot of time dealing with my Mother and that is still ongoing. I am hoping something will be resolved quite soon now. Our family returned to the UK from Australia and so we have been able to invite three of our grandchildren (ages 11, 8 and 7) to come and stay. The first time, a long weekend was such a success we had them come again for the October break and took the opportunity to get all three of them swimming (only 1 of them could swim before that). We had a great time but we were all shattered at the end of that week.

Bob had his 70th birthday but we kept it fairly low key and just had several small parties with various groups of friends. We had some lovely holidays - Scotland in June, Spain in October and in early December we flew with a friend and her daughter to spend 6 nights in New York! We had a fantastic time, it was a wonderful experience and I really would like to return.

Here, from Battery Park, is my first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty - such a thrill!

and here we are a little closer

A wonderful statue, she is beautiful and I felt very emotional to be there and to see her for myself. Probably one of the best experiences of 2011 for me.

So here's to 2012 - it is going to be a special year for us here in the UK with the Olympics and our Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Bring it on!

Happy New Year to you all.

Seasons Greetings

2011-12-24T06:43:00.006Z

I would like to wish everyone a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and hope to see you again early in 2012.

That was what I was going to post as I haven't been around since September but wanted to send wishes to all.

However, doing the rounds of blogging friends I looked in on Ladybird World Mother and her post gave me inspiration to do a longer post.

When my son was about 5/6 years old he made a shepherd, at school (he is now 43). It is a treasured part of Christmas for me and each year I bring it out from it's wrappings and place it under our tree.

As some of you may know son and his family lived in Australia for 7 years returning to UK in March this year. A couple of weeks ago they came to visit to exchange Christmas gifts and knowing this I decorated the Christmas tree early for the children to enjoy. Naturally, Shepherd took up his usual place. While the family were here I pointed out the shepherd and told my grandchildren that their Daddy had made it when he was a little boy at school. My son chuckled. He said "I can remember making it; it's made of a Fairy Liquid bottle and a papier mache head". His children were duly impressed but chuckled too as they looked at this strange and wonderfully weird shepherd.

So, as well as a thank you to Ladybird World Mother (I can recommend her blog highly) I would like to say again to you all - I wish you a very Happy and Peaceful Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Cats on Tuesday

2011-09-06T15:00:00.015+01:00

One summer, when young birds were newly fledged, we realised that we had one stuck in our cavity wall. I couldn't bear the thought of just leaving it there and so our son came and removed a couple of bricks. Fortunately, the bird escaped but it was a few days before the bricks were replaced -
just enough time for curious Katie to explore.

sometimes she was just plain cheeky!

Thanks to Gattina who hosts this lovely, lovely meme. For more Cute Cats please click here.

Cats on Tuesday

2011-08-30T10:03:00.007+01:00

More of Katie again this week -

with her friend, Buster - I soon learned to keep the camera handy for moments like these.

I came down one morning to find she had been rummaging through my knitting bag! - she had very long whiskers for such a slim cat and had long legs as well.

Like a lot of cats she loved to play and hide in boxes - (this while we were trying to pack) - there was always fun to be had and time to play.

Thanks to Gattina for hosting this lovely, lovely meme and if you would like to see more cats on Tuesday, please click here.

The Joys of Grand-parenthood

2011-08-24T12:11:00.000+01:00

As some of you may know, one of our sons and his family have been living in Australia for the past 7 years, returning to the UK in March this year. When they emigrated in 2004 they had a boy of 3 and a baby girl of 10 months. It was very hard to say goodbye to them and I can still remember the dull ache I felt inside. However, I was lucky enough to be able to visit them several times during the 7 year period they were there and thus retained the bond I had with my grandson and got to know my grand-daughter as well. When they had their third child, another boy, in September 2008, I travelled with my mother to meet the newest member of our family. The last time husband and I visited Australia was in December 2009 and so at our reunion in the UK in March, two and a half year old Matthew half-remembered us.

They are now getting to know their cousins and get on together well. We have 2 grand-daughters living just down the road from us so see them from time to time, although they are teenagers now and naturally have their various activities which take up quite a lot of their spare time, but they do come to stay occasionally as and when the need arises.

Last year our youngest grand-daughter came to stay with us for a few days during the summer holidays and was keen to repeat it this year. So we asked if our two eldest grandchildren from Australia would like to come as well. It was agreed and the dates confirmed. About 3 weeks ago we picked them up from home in Worcester on a Friday morning and were back at home in Somerset by lunchtime. We returned them back to their parents at 5 pm on the following Monday.

So for 3 days and 3 nights we were in sole charge of grandson who will be 11 in September and 2 grand-daughters ages 7 and 8. We are 30 years out of practice and we were exhausted but we loved it. They were as good as gold and I think we all had fun. The weather could have been kinder but we had a list of possible things to do with wet weather contingencies. It worked a treat and when we delivered them home husband told them, in front of their parents, that their behaviour had been exemplary and that they could come visit again. They said they had had a good time too and I think they meant it.

We drove home and when we walked back indoors at about 7pm it felt so quiet and I felt again that old, familiar ache. A friend happened to ring to find out how we had got on - "I've been thinking of you" she said. I told her and explained the empty feeling. "I know exactly what you mean" she said. "Sit down and have a glass of wine and you will feel better by 9 o'clock" and do you know, she was right - well almost!

Cats on Tuesday

2011-08-23T09:20:00.002+01:00

This is my first time at Cats on Tuesday and I would like to introduce you to Katie. We collected her when she was 7 weeks old and she was with us for 12 years. These photos were taken very early on as you can see.

In my son's pocket

With Buster our rabbit - they soon became firm friends and often played together.

Katie was a real character, very loving, full of fun and rarely still. I loved her very much. In following weeks I will show you photos of all my beloved cats. I shared my life with them for the best part of 60 years but, sadly, now live without them, for many reasons. But I do miss them. Thanks to Gattina for hosting this lovely, lovely meme and if you would like to see more cats on Tuesday, please click here.

John O'Groats to Lands End

2011-08-18T09:14:00.000+01:00

Well not quite but very close! In the past 2 months husband and I have taken a couple of breaks. In June we went on a coach tour of Scotland. H had never before visited "north of the border" and the last time for me had been some 45+ years ago. Recent times have seen us jetting off on long-haul flights to visit our children in Australia and New Zealand. Well now the "Australians" are back living in the UK and although our NZ family are staying put and therefore another trip there will take place, it is not on the cards at the moment. So in mid June we boarded a coach and were taken north, as far as Inverness.

We saw Loch Ness

but not "Nessie", this was the closest we got!

The Caledonian Canal is another famous Scottish waterway and we stopped here at Neptunes Staircase and saw a set of 8 locks designed to raise vessels to 70 feet above sea level and thus negotiate the surrounding area. There are 29 locks in total on the canal.

We drove through the wonderfully atmospheric Glen Coe, site of the historic massacre of the MacDonalds by the Campbells.

This monument is to the Commandos who died during the 2nd World War. The surrounding area was their training ground.

We stayed in Fort William which is very close to Ben Nevis (the highest mountain in the Bristish Isles) and from there had a train ride to Mallaig which is said to be one of the most scenic in the world. It was certainly beautiful and the morning was perfect with sunshine, blue skies and hardly a breeze so the reflections in the lochs were very sharp and clear. I didn't take many photos as I wanted to concentrate on the views and after all we were rattling along in a train.

Unfortunately we had only a brief stay in Edinburgh but did manage a couple of shots of the Castle.

and a piper

On the way home we went to Gretna Green on the border of England and Scotland, which has seen so many runaway marriages.

Last week we travelled down to see some friends who have lived in Cornwall for the past 5 years. We went via the Tamar Bridge.

We actually stayed in the village of St Keverne, on the Lizard which is the southernmost part of the British Isles. The hotel we stayed in "The Three Tuns" is reputed to have a ghost! Fortunately we didn't see anything untoward.

Lands End is a short drive away and we travelled over there one day and had lunch in a hotel overlooking St Ives.

A very pleasant few days catching up with our friends and we promised to do it again before too long. We realised on our way home that we had almost travelled the length of the British Isles during the past few weeks, but not quite!

Time Out

2011-07-18T17:43:00.003+01:00

The last few months hasn't been all work and stress, husband and I have managed to take some time to ourselves as well.

Last Christmas our daughter gave us a membership for the National Trust and, apart from an outing earlier in the year, we haven't had the chance to make use of it. Last Thursday we paid a visit to Barrington Court in Somerset and thoroughly enjoyed our day. We were lucky with the weather which was very warm and sunny and as there are some beautiful gardens there we made the most of our time just wandering around, enjoying all the sights and scents and sounds of an English country garden. I think we appreciated it all the more because we no longer have a garden of our own. I have posted some pictures of the gardens below and hope you like them. As it was such a lovely day we decided not to go inside and look at the house but will save that for a trip later in the year when the weather is cooler.

Part of the house

Some of the old stables

Beautiful hollyhocks

A bed in the White Garden

Striking orange flowers (not sure what they are called)

The moles have been busy

A herd of cows in an adjoining meadow

We are already planning our next NT trip.

A Tough Old Bird

2011-07-01T00:54:00.003+01:00

My 89 year old Mum is proving to be "a tough old bird" in more ways than one! The last few weeks, as I mentioned in my previous post, have been hectic to say the least, indeed, traumatic would probably be a more accurate description of recent events.

Some of you may recall that mum had a bowel cancer operation shortly before last Christmas. She was in hospital for 5 days, came home and in spite of a very severe cold, recovered very well and very quickly. In April the hospital said all was well and they didn't need to see her again. However mum didn't seem to continue to regain her strength and was spending longer and longer periods of time in bed, not like her at all. I was going in to see her each day, 2 or 3 times on some days, preparing her meals and doing whatever was necessary. She also kept having falls but each time, thankfully, it was only her pride that was hurt. On the days that I only went in once she was not averse to telephoning me to summon me to help her, once waking me at 7 in the morning.

I eventually called her GP and he said that she should be admitted to the local hospital in order for them to assess her to try to find out what was wrong. So she had 2 weeks complete rest, even though she hadn't been doing very much in the lead up to being in hospital. However, blood tests showed she was again anaemic, even though she was supposed to have been taking iron tablets. All further tests and scans proved that there were no other problems. The OT department thoroughly monitored her mobility and when she was discharged from hospital she had some extra aids to take home with her. Still very lethargic and seemingly unable to do anything very much for herself, I was back to my twice daily visits.

Husband and I had a holiday booked and it was quite worrying to know what to do. I felt I couldn't leave her alone as she seemed unable to cope with day to day tasks so I tentatively suggested to her that she have some respite care in a local retirement home whilst we were away and to my surprise she readily agreed. So all was arranged, we took her to the home 3 days before we went away. The plan was that the staff would assess her needs and mum would try life there with a view to it being a possible permanent situation. When my daughter and I visited the day before my holiday mum declared that this was just what she needed and felt that she would like to stay permanently! Early days I thought!

However husband and I had our holiday (more of which another time) and I was able to thoroughly relax. We returned home last Friday and on Saturday, full of trepidation, I called at the Home to visit mum, anxious to know how her week had been. "Not for me" she declared. "I don't want to live the rest of my life here". Fair enough. She has to like it enough to stay permanently otherwise we will both be unhappy. So this week I have been trying to set up a care package for her which will mean that someone will call in a couple of times each day to make sure she is OK and do whatever needs to be done at that particular time. I will still do things for her (bed changing, washing, ironing and making meals for her freezer) but will not go in every single day and certainly only once in any day. It will mean I can get my life back and not be constantly at mum's beck and call.

Today she told me that she hopes she can cope on her own once she is back at home as she dislikes the thought of someone going in to do things for her!

Um - Excuse me ...

2011-06-29T12:35:00.002+01:00

Is there anybody there? I may well ask, but in fact it is I who has been AWOL for the past 3 months.

I am not going to bore you and go into the why's and wherefores, suffice to say that I have had a busy and fairly stressful few weeks and just couldn't manage time and energy for the world of blogging as well. But I have missed it. As I write it is almost midnight but I suddenly felt the urge to have a quick look round and visit some old friends to see what has been happening to you.

Over the next few days I plan to let you know what has been happening in my world and to update myself with your news too.

So, for now, it's a good night from me.

March 2011

2011-03-31T23:59:00.002+01:00

Here we are again at the end of another month. March has been a kinder month for me and my family than February was this year. To begin with the weather has been marvellous. Plenty of warm sunny days with few of the March winds we would normally expect and very little rain. We have even turned off our central heating although I realise that we may have to switch it back on again before Spring is well and truly over. We shall see!

The month has provided a few celebrations. To begin with there were two birthdays - my son was 43 on 4th March and my mother 89 on 9th March. Son was still in Australia for his birthday but returned to the UK on the 11th with his wife and three children. They are going to be staying with DIL's parents in Worcester for a few weeks and are looking to settle there. So a few days after their return we travelled to see them and had a bit of a family get together to welcome them home. This coming weekend they will visit us and we are planning another party!

It was lovely to see them all again and to know that they are now living so much closer. They were in Australia for 7 years but I think the longing for "home" became too much, especially for my DIL, who really and truthfully didn't really want to go in the first place. They agreed at the time that they would give it a few years and if one of them really wanted to return to UK then they would. So they are here and I just hope that all goes well for them now. The two eldest children are already in school and seem to be settling well. Jacob (aged 10) has a teacher who comes from Australia!

My mother isn't too well at the moment and is due for a check up next week. I actually called her GP to see her today but he says there is nothing wrong. I don't agree and feel that it could well be old age that is now taking its toll. We will get next week over and then I shall take it a step further to try to discover what is wrong and how to help her. My daughter has had a bout of shingles and immediately followed that up with a really heavy cold but is now well on the road to recovery and should get back to work next week.

We have had lunches with friends which is ALWAYS a pleasure. Some have been impromptu and others planned, both out and at home. All great fun, with much reminiscing and laughter.

I managed to finish my bedroom chair covers and although they are not perfect I am very pleased with the result and the chair now looks so much nicer than it did.

My next project will be to re-line a favourite winter coat, with help, of course!

Finally a picture of Springtime in Somerset.

February 2011

2011-03-02T18:59:00.001Z

I have really been finding it difficult to do any posts at all lately. I have managed to look in at some of your blogs from time, in an attempt to keep up to date with your comings and goings but even that has been spasmodic. I have decided to take a leaf out of Kitty's book at Kitty's Bloggy Bits , (having asked her if she would mind first)and do a monthly round up. Kitty does her round up on the last day of the relevant month and here we are already at 2 March. However, my February was extended by one day this year because I have a friend whose birthday falls on 29th February so we were out for her birthday lunch yesterday. I had planned that I would write about things as they occurred but didn't even get around to that so here is a potted version of my February 2011.

The month actually began on a sad note as my daughter had to have her beloved puss cat put to sleep. A pretty cat, she was beautifully marked and her paws were black which I have never seen on any other cat. She was quite temperamental, really a cat with attitude. Ian (don't ask!) was 18 years old and had been ailing and failing since last summer, being kept going by steroid injections every few weeks. "You will know when it is time" the vet had said and on 2 February I received an early morning telephone call from my heartbroken daughter to say that the time had indeed come. She arranged for the vet to visit to the house rather than cause her pet any more distress by taking her to the surgery. There were several phone calls throughout the day between us with me trying to console and support her from 100 miles away and trying not to cry myself. However the deed was done and Ian is now sleeping peacefully, in the sunshine, under the bird bath in the garden she loved so much. I shall miss her when I visit as she and I used to have some fun times playing with a ping pong ball. I will tell you more about her one day in a separate post.

Ian playing (when she was still a kitten)

Ian relaxing (about 6 months ago)

Sleep well little lady.

The weather during February wasn't that cold but we have had mostly grey days, only seeing the sun shine on a few occasions. However the spring flowers began to show their colours and the birds have been singing for a few weeks now.

I returned to my sewing classes at the start of the month and I am now making some new covers for a bedroom chair. I will post a photo when it is complete. The owners of the shop where the classes are held (upstairs, away from the shop) have just won a "Stitching Retailer of the Year" award (for the third year) so we are all very thrilled for them. They definitely deserve it as their shop is so well stocked and the staff are always so pleasant and helpful.

I began sorting through old photographs which was great fun. We have hundreds of them to be looked through and decisions made as to which we will keep and which can be handed over to our children to peruse and which we can just discard. We love looking at those from our childhood and once I have been through them all I may post some for you to see.

Husband went away for a week to promote this area for tourism, something he has done for years and a subject very close to his heart. Whilst he was gone our eldest (14 years old) grandaughter came to stay for 4 days as her parents were also away and that was a new experience (in a good way). Well not new really as I have obviously lived with teenagers before but not for many years, and it is all so different these days! However, we both survived!

The brilliant news of my month is that my son and his wife and family (in Australia) have sold their house and have their return to UK flights booked for later this month. I last saw them in December 2009 so I am very excited about seeing them again soon and to know that they will only be about 100 miles away instead of 10,000.

So that is it, my potted version of February but I cannot end before saying just how touched I was by your comments on my previous post, about my late friend. They were so uplifting and I thank each and everyone of you.

A Fond Farewell

2011-01-24T21:51:00.003Z

Many years ago, when I was a young girl, I had a close friend called Margaret. We were friends for quite a few years, losing touch when I moved, with my parents, to another village about 15 miles away. There was quite a group of us really, her sister, my cousin and other children of neighbours and we were all of a similar age. We went for walks, played together in each other's gardens, sat in the darkness of sheds and told each other ghost stories, you know the sort of thing! The usual childhood activities. Margaret and I were the same age and just seemed to click. As far I can remember all this took place between the years 1952-56.

Her parents had 5 children and were very hard working, her father was a chef at a local hotel and her mother worked as well. Margaret and her older sister were expected to help out at home and because we were such friends I used to stay and help her. To eke out their income her father used to bake pasties and pies at home, in short crust and flaky pastry, which became very popular with the local villagers who would buy them. This little business did very well so that they began a delivery service which meant Margaret taking a wicker basket of the freshly baked pies, covered with a cloth, to those of the local folk who had placed an order. Again, because of our friendship I would sometimes accompany her, also with a basket and we would walk a couple of miles to deliver the goods. To this day I can still remember the delicious aroma of the pies and pasties.

As I said, we lost touch when we were about 12-13 years old and eventually, after I had married, I moved about 100 miles away from my home town. I thought of her from time to time and always on her birthday - 1 December - as I knew this was the same date as my uncle's birthday; a fact often mentioned by my mother on that particular day.

One day about 30 years ago when I was shopping in the next town to where I live now, just as I was about to leave the department store I was in a woman of about my own age approached me. She said my name and when I just looked at her said "it is Anne isn't it, I recognised you instantly". I must have looked completely blank because she then said "it's Margaret". As much as I looked at her there was no recognition at all. I just couldn't see the girl who had been such a friend, although I had always remembered exactly how she had looked. Yet she had known me immediately. I felt dreadful and apologised, of course. We chatted for a while and learned that we were both living in the same area, about 20 miles apart. She was married with 2 children and so was I. Both busy mums. We didn't exchange telephone numbers or addresses. A missed opportunity or just not to be but when we parted that was the last time I would see her.

Last year on 1 December, once again my mother and I spoke of her, remembering her birthday. A couple of days later I thought I would try to look for her on Facebook but because I don't get on with it very well and because there were a lot of Margaret ***'s, I soon gave up.

On 10 December my cousin telephoned me. "I thought you would want to know" she said, "I saw Margaret's mum today and she told me that Margaret died a few days ago". She had had cancer and died following a very short illness, 3 days after her 66th birthday. Her funeral was to take place the following Monday. We spoke of her for a while, both fondly remembering all the happy times we had shared. The next day I managed to find her death announcement by looking on-line and decided I would attend her funeral a couple of days later.

And so I went to pay my last respects. The little chapel was packed, some mourners having to stand at the sides and at the back. Her son gave the Eulogy, paying a wonderful tribute to his loving and much loved mum. I learned a little about the life she had led and felt priviliged to be amongst her family and all those people who had known the adult Margaret so well.

Afterwards I introduced myself to her husband and I also spoke to her mother and sisters and they seemed to be touched that I was there.

While I was waiting to speak to Margeret's family the undertaker brought out a huge, enlarged photo of Margaret and placed it close to the flowers. And while I stood in line I looked across at her now 66 year old image and there she was. I was so glad I could see her at the last.

A Lovely Afternoon

2011-01-22T23:00:00.006Z

The new film "The King's Speech" is showing at our local cinema. Being a Colin Firth fan I definitely wanted to see it and OH said he would like to see it as well.

On Wednesday we decided that we would go out to lunch and then go on to see the afternoon performance of the film. We asked some friends if they would like to join us and they were only too pleased.

The four of us drove the few miles to our favourite restaurant for lunch. We go there fairly regularly but our friends had never been before. It is a family run business and they serve all home cooked and prepared food. All the food is locally sourced as well and the restaurant is very popular and always busy. We all had a roast lunch and as usual it was delicious and we all enjoyed it.

We drove back in time to park the car at home and then, as it was such a beautiful day, we walked to the cinema. Most of the seats were taken and it was mostly an older audience and hardly anyone rushed out of the cinema afterwards, instead, discussing what we had just seen and exchanging views.

The film is brilliant and so well cast. Colin Firth's Golden Globe award is so well deserved for the part that he played. Geoffrey Rush as the speech therapist was also outstanding and Helena Bonham-Carter as Queen Elizabeth was perfect. It was moving and funny, thoroughly enjoyable and I would recommend it to anyone.

Happy New Year

2011-01-11T01:51:00.002Z

At last - A Happy New Year to you all.

Having got myself organised for Christmas and all was well (Mum out of hospital and safely at home, all shopping done etc etc) Christmas Day was finally with us. I did manage to cook the festive meal although I struggled and later that day began to feel very unwell. Suffice to say I came down with seasonal flu and am only just beginning to feel well again. It has been a long haul and husband Bob has been brilliant.

More again in a couple of days but in the meantime I would like to wish all my blogging friends a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. A x

Season's Greetings and an update on Mum

2010-12-23T11:43:00.005Z

Life does get hectic sometimes doesn't it!

Firstly an update on my dear Mum. She had a successful operation for bowel cancer last week and is now back at home and doing rather well. She came home 5 days after her operation and doesn't need any further treatment, as far as we know at this stage. So that is extremely good news. She is remarkable to be doing so well at 88 and still keeping her sense of humour. Bless her heart.

Life is very busy though as you can imagine with Christmas preparations now speeding up. The weather is very trying with all the snow we have been having and we are just hoping that our daughter and grandaughter will make it to us on Christmas Eve.

So I would like to take this opportuniy to wish everyone a peaceful and happy Christmas and send you all the very best wishes for a healthy and prosperous New Year. I leave you with this lovely Christmas Carol.

Love and hugs to all. A xxx

ABC Wednesday - W

2010-12-21T17:36:00.005Z

W is for Windmill

This is Ashton Windmill, fairly close to where we live. The sails of this 18th century mill were damaged in a storm a few years ago but have now been repaired.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and the ABC Wednesday team. For more looks at the letter W, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - V

2010-12-15T19:42:00.003Z

V is for Victory V Lozenges

Do you remember these lozenges. As a child I used to love the flavour of them and was delighted when I discovered them in a shop recently. I bought a few and the taste is exactly the same and brought the past flooding back.

However, now they make me cough!

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbit and the ABC Wednesday Team. For more looks at the letter V, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - U

2010-12-07T16:12:00.011Z

Umm! What to do for this week - U. I have been unduly undecided until now. And given that I am still under pressure I decided to take the easy route and go with Umbrella.

I have several in various colours and size and that is simply because I have been caught out a few times in the pouring rain and had to buy another (whilst knowing I had others at home keeping dry). These are just two under which I manage to keep reasonably dry!

The smaller, red one, is an ideal size for popping into a fairly small handbag.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbit and her ABC Wednesday team, who host this each week. For more (interesting) looks at the letter U please click here.

ABC Wednesday - T

2010-11-30T21:04:00.000Z

T is for:

The turrets and towers of Dunster Castle, set on a tor amongst the trees. Dunster is a little town near Minehead in Somerset. There has been a castle there for more than one thousand years. You can read more about it here.

and some tiled roof tops

Thanks go to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at this week's letter, please click here.

Where does the time go?

2010-11-30T08:20:00.000Z

Well, so much for being determined to a post each day through November. I began well enough but slid into lethargy last week and now, here we are, the very last day! Where does the time go?

It wasn't actually lethargy - I have been very busy and consequently very tired and I'm afraid blogging is the first thing to go whenever that is the case.

I had a telephone call late last Tuesday afternoon asking if I could take my mother to the hospital the following morning for a blood transfusion. We needed to be there for 9 am and as she had to have 2 units of blood, would be there most of the day. Of course that meant a double journey and also re-arrangement of plans already made. No problem as Mum is priority at the moment. The journey takes 35 minutes but I had to allow for morning traffic and the fact that Mum is slow, so we left home at 8 am. When I got Mum back home there was a letter waiting for her to say that she is to go into hospital for her operation on 14th December and will be in for about 5 days. So at least we know when and I now know that I have (now) 2 weeks to prepare for Christmas.

So, I have made lists, bought cards and written most of them - they will be posted later this week and made a start on the gift buying. I have made 4 Christmas cakes - one for a charity stall, one for us and the other 2 are gifts. Yesterday I put the almond paste on each of them and will decorate them over the coming 2 weeks.

Funnily enough, I think I will be more organised this year as I have found in other years, when my time has been limited for Christmas preparations (for various reasons), that most things have gone swimmingly!

Finally, an apology to those of you who aren't so organised - I'm not bragging - honestly!

PS - I just checked and I did 20 posts out of a possible 30 so not too bad.

ABC Wednesday - S

2010-11-23T22:01:00.000Z

While we were in Vancouver earlier this year we visited Gastown and were intrigued by this lovely Steam Clock. According to Wikipedia it was built in 1977 and is powered by a steam engine.

As you can see I took this video of it at 4 pm. I had to put it on YouTube as I had difficulty uploading it to my blog.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and the ABC Wednesday team who host this each week. To see more of the letter S, please click here.

Getting Organised - Part 2

2010-11-22T19:13:00.004Z

Following on from yesterday's post I have begun making lists and actually did a bit of Christmas shopping today. This week I shall make the cakes that I want to give this year. Last year, with the house move and being away for a month just before Christmas I made none so I really would like to make up for it this year.

So I have made a start!

Getting Organised

2010-11-21T17:43:00.001Z

Having been given the news of Mum's imminent operation last week I realised a couple of days ago that I really should get on with some preparations for Christmas. Mum will probably be in hospital for about 5 days and I will want to visit her (the hospital is about 40 minutes' drive away), but once she is back at home I will have to be on hand for her, to make sure that she is OK in every way. The easiest thing (for me) would be for her to come and stay with us but I have a feeling that she will want to go straight back to her own home. Understandable. If that happens I will have to spend most of my time there for a few weeks. When I mentioned coming to us she just replied "well, we'll see nearer the time". Wherever, I will have a lot less time to do much about the forthcoming festive season.

So, the first thing is a priority list and then I will make the most of my time over the next couple of weeks, because once Mum does go into hospital, she will be my priority. In any case, everyone will understand if certain things don't happen and there is always next year!

2010-11-19T07:40:00.003Z

Out for a walk with my daughter recently, at her home in Stratford on Avon, on looking up to see if the rain clouds were gathering, we saw that some "wag" had decided to adorn the statue of William Shakespeare!

Thanks go to the SkyWatch Friday team who host this each week. For a look at skies around the world, please click here.

Update on Mum

2010-11-17T10:01:00.000Z

On Monday afternoon, after weeks of tests and scans, my Mum was finally given the news we had been dreading. She has bowel cancer. Again. She was first diagnosed 24 years ago, had an operation and was successfully cleared of the disease, not needing any other treatment. But she has it again. It is not the same cancer but a new one and her doctor said she is very unlucky to get it a second time.

At 88 Mum's general health is very good. She has difficulty walking, managing short distances with a stick but her heart is sound and her BP mostly normal. So she is to have an operation and the doctor says he is confident that all should go very well.

Mum is quite pragmatic about it all. I have to say I feel fairly confident about the outcome, if a little anxious. But it has to be done and quite soon. She is very anaemic and that has to be dealt with initially but the operation should take place within the next few weeks.

ABC Wednesday - R

2010-11-16T18:00:00.001Z

Russett reflections of the reeds and ripples on the lake (not a reservoir)!

Thanks go to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at this week's letter, please click here.

Shoe Boxes for Christmas

2010-11-14T21:00:00.003Z

I recently read about "Operation Christmas Child" and have been filling a couple of shoe boxes - one for a boy of 2-4 years and one for a girl of 5-9 years. The deadline for handing over the boxes is 18 November. When I looked at the web site and saw the looks of pleasure on the children's faces as they opened their gifts I was very moved and it made me determined to take part. This charity has been operating for 20 years, where on earth have I been?

In the coming year I will make or buy gifts in readiness for the 2011 deadline.

I have to wrap the boxes in Christmas paper then fill each one and take them to the drop off point in our town by Thursday. It is amazing what you can fit into a shoe box!

Blog, Twitter or Facebook

2010-11-14T09:41:00.001Z

I have been blogging for over 2 years now. I managed to get to grips with it fairly easily and time gave me more confidence. Much more recently my son in Australia asked me if I would consider joining Facebook as it would be a good way of keeping in touch apart from our weekly telephone calls. I did join but I don't really understand it and don't find it easy at all. Now I am wondering if I should try Twitter.

Any thoughts anyone?

Pride of Britain

2010-11-12T17:41:00.006Z

Husband was out on Wednesday evening, playing skittles, a fortnightly team event, popular here in the South West of England. (to be honest I'm not sure about the rest of the country). I wondered about watching a now annually televised event "Pride of Britain", knowing it would be quite an emotional programme. I decided I would begin to watch and if it proved to be too much (I seem to be more emotional as I get older and I've always been a "weeper") then I would turn it off.

I did stick with it and found it fascinating to hear the remarkable stories that were told that evening of such bravery and courage, not only adults helping their fellow men but of children too, being so brave in the face of serious illness and disabilities and yet fighting on, not just for themselves but for others too.

I have watched the programme in other years and knew what to expect and I am glad I saw it through to the end.

I know I have already mentioned Susan Boyle this week but the whole event was opened by her singing with a young choir, which was perfect.

Skywatch Friday

2010-11-11T20:10:00.000Z

Yesterday afternoon Husband and I decided to go out for a walk. The weather was beautiful and it just seemed a shame to stay in. The sky was very clear and it was colder than we had anticipated. We were out for about an hour so by the time we reached home again the sun as setting and I actually felt quite chilled.

Just as we were about to go inside I happened to see this newish crescent pale moon.

Thanks to the SkyWatch Friday team. For more looks at skies around the world, please click here.

My Sewing Lessons

2010-11-10T21:06:00.002Z

I am thoroughly enjoying my sewing lessons every other Tuesday, from 6.30 pm until about 9 pm. I am still very much a "greenhorn" though. I did warn K, my teacher and she is very patient with me and I am not the only one, after all they are lessons, and we are all there to learn.

Last week K asked me to put the zipper foot on the sewing machine so that I could stitch along some piping. I had already used it at home during the day so felt quite confident about it.

K came over to check. "Well, that's a first" she said, "you've put it on sideways"!

Well, it caused a laugh anyway and after all, don't you learn by your mistakes. I do hope so!

ABC Wednesday - Q

2010-11-09T21:00:00.000Z

Q is for Queen
HM Queen Elizabeth II

The following words are part of Queen Elizabeth's 21st birthday speech, on 21 April 1947, when she was still Princess Elizabeth.

"I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service and the service of our great imperial family to which we all belong".

She became Queen in 1952 and was crowned at her coronation in June the following year. I imagine Her Majesty had a few qualms on that day.

The following picture shows detail of her beautiful gown. What a quantity of stitches there must be in a piece of work of such quality.

Do you suppose they ate quiche and queen cakes at the party afterwards, or queen of puddings. Maybe they danced the quick-step or even the quadrille.

She is still, at 84 years of age, devoting her life to the service of her people and I heard on the news at the weekend that she has just become a member of Facebook!

The following video captures some off-duty moments.

Thanks go to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at this week's letter, please click here.

Time to Sleep

2010-11-08T22:24:00.005Z

Our friends left after the annual firework display last evening. A good show, it lasted for about 20 minutes and heralded the carnival celebrations in the town.

Husband and I cleared up then sat down to watch the final episode of "Downton Abbey", a period drama we have been watching for the past 7 weeks. Following that was Piers Morgan's interview with Susan Boyle. H went on to bed but as tired as I was I stayed up to watch it as, along with thousands of her fans, I am so glad for her that she is living her dream. What a wonderful voice she has. It is always a pleasure to hear it.

I went to bed around mid-night and then I just couldn't sleep which is not like me at all. I got up again and finally, finally, went back to bed at 3 am and slept.

What about the Rice!

2010-11-07T23:15:00.004Z

Friends came to lunch today. I decided to cook roast beef, Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and a selection of vegetables. For dessert it was to be rice pudding, raspberry meringue roulade and sticky toffee pudding. The meringue dessert had to be made first and while the meringue was cooking I prepared the rice pudding to go into the oven immediately after the meringue came out. I rinsed the rice and left it to drain, prepared the dish and put the sugar and nutmeg in then measured the milk into a saucepan to be warmed through a little later.

So, eventually, the milk warmed I poured it into the bowl and then popped the prepared pudding into the oven. I always cook it on high for about 20 minutes then give it a stir and then turn the temperature down to cook the pudding for another hour. Once that was done I had a couple of telephone calls to make. Husband looked into the oven and remarked how good the pudding was looking. Great. Phone calls done I went back into the kitchen to carry on with the lunch preparations and there on the worktop was - yes you've guessed it - the rice, still draining!

Out of the oven came the pudding bowl, in went the rice, back into the oven and cooked for the usual time. All was well!

Our friends duly arrived, we all had lunch and Husband had a funny story to tell!

Carnival Time

2010-11-06T16:09:00.009Z

This time of the year in our part of the South West of England is Carnival time and it has become known worldwide now. The first carnival of the 2010 circuit took place last night in the town of Bridgwater. Over 100 carnival clubs take part and the carts they design and build vary in dimension, theme and success. They can be up to 100 feet in length, 16 feet high and 11 feet wide. They are all illuminated, some of the larger carts using up to 30,000 separate lights. Seeing them approaching out of the dark night is quite a sight to behold. The carnival will come to our town on Monday and from tomorrow the carts will begin arriving and taking their place ready for the procession. At about 7 pm on Monday the music will begin and fill the night air. Husband and I will stroll up the road to see that procession which will begin at 7.30 pm and will last for about 2 hours. You can read more about the carnival here.

This picture of one of last year's carts was taken from a website and is not my photo. Click on the image for more detail

Tomorrow, Sunday, in the early evening at about 7 pm, there will be a firework display, on the beach, which is now a part of the carnival celebrations. We have friends coming to lunch so hope they will be able to stay and watch the display from our windows. Last year, our first year in this apartment, we were unable to see it as I was going to Australia and husband took me to the airport - 2 hours drive away, so this year it will be the first time we have had such a grandstand view.

Skywatch Friday

2010-11-05T08:15:00.002Z

We have lived in our apartment for just about 1 year now and there has hardly been a day when we haven't had a lovely sunset. Some more spectacular than others, particularly when the volcanic ash cloud was hovering over the UK back in April, but even so, always a joy to see. We believe we have some of the best in the world.

The following images were taken on 23 August this year between 19.16 hrs and 19.19 hrs.

Thanks to the SkyWatch Friday team who host this each week. For a look at skies around the world, please click here.

NaBloPoMo

2010-11-04T21:06:00.001Z

Just lately, well most of the spring and summer if I'm honest, I have found it increasing difficult to "blog".

It is partly a time thing because I seem to be so much busier now than when I originally began blogging. Apart from my usual chores/duties and vising my mum about 4 times each week to help her I also have a new hobby - sewing - which I am enjoying immensely. However I am not a "natural" so whenever I decide to do some sewing at home (as opposed to being in sewing class) it is a slow process. I have some knitting on the go and 2 birthday cakes in the pipeline. Whatever the reason or excuse, the longer it has gone on the more difficult I have found it to get back into the swing of it - and I do miss it although I have managed to keep in touch and fairly up to date with most of my blogging friends.

Well, yesterday, I paid a visit to Pam's blog at "Life with our Lad" and there I read that this month is NaBloPoMo - National Blog Posting Month.

To take part in this I have to publish one post each day through November.
So, I've decided to try to do this and hopefully will get back into the swing of it again. I should be able to find something to chat about after all, with all these new things I am doing. Wish me luck!

Halloweens Past and Present

2010-11-03T20:02:00.002Z

Before we moved to our first floor apartment we always had lots of visitors at Halloween. I did encourage it by decorating our porch not only with a carved pumpkin but also with spider webs and spiders (not real, you understand) a witches broom and hat, a black cat and some bats. I always had the treats ready bagged up, including mini chocolate bars, party whistles, streamers and maybe plastic bugs, spiders etc and a sprinkling of Halloween confetti. The callers came from about 5.30 pm through to about 9pm and I really enjoyed seeing the kids all dressed up, especially the little ones and of course always appeared impressed and/or scared. All great fun.

Last year was our first Halloween here and, of course, being on the first floor, we had no callers. I have given most of my Halloween decorations away.

Daughter and grand-daughter were with us for the weekend. They went home on Sunday evening but, as it was Halloween, before they left grand-daughter, aged 6, wanted to dress up and go "trick or treating". She had decided to be an executioner so she donned black leggings and T-shirt and a black cloth bag over her head with holes cut out for her eyes and mouth. Armed with an executioner's axe she was ready and off they went. First call was to our son and daughter in law and their girls, two of our older grand-daughters. The girls were kind enough to then take her out to knock on some of their friends and neighbours' door and Imogen had a lovely time. They (the family) were a bit taken aback with her choice of costume - being more used to witches and even fairies! Whilst they were out I prepared tea and realised I had forgotten to make cake. Just in time I remembered some "Halloween" biscuit cutters, so I set to and made a small batch of "spooky" biscuits for their return. "Cool" said appreciative grand-daughter.

ABC Wednesday - P

2010-11-02T18:30:00.000Z

Pandas After The Earthquake in China - click on each picture to enlarge it.

The earthquake was right in the area where giant pandas live.
Most pandas in this area were rescued, particular attention was given to the babies, all the pandas were scared. The photos were taken right after earthquake and during rescue effort care. All the pandas were released back into the wild and it was noted that all of the bears stayed together.

People rescuing pandas

Giving them milk-

After meal

Look at these babies!

Staying here maybe safer...

These pictures are too cute to not share ... don't you agree?

All these photos were sent to me in an email recently so I have no idea who the photographer is.

For more looks at the letter P, please click here. Thanks go to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday each week.

ABC Wednesday - O

2010-10-26T13:06:00.011+01:00

O is for Orchids

The first two pictures were taken in the beautiful gardens in Singapore Airport

and the next two are my orchids at home - and yes they are easy to grow!

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter O - please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-10-21T21:57:00.000+01:00

Sunrise over the Quantock Hills

and sunset over the sea

and Aberthaw (Wales) - all images taken from our windows this week.

Thanks to the Skywatch Friday team, who host this each week. For more skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - N

2010-10-19T18:38:00.000+01:00

N is for:

nuts and nutcrackers

nutmegs and nutmeg grater

needles - knitting and sewing

Last year we visited The Isle of Wight and I took this photo of "The Needles".

The following text is taken from The Needles website.

"The name 'Needles' is believed to have been derived from a slender tapering rock pinnacle which was formerly situated a little to the north (i.e. on the Alum Bay side) of the present central rock. This needle-shaped rock, about 120ft high and known as 'Lot's Wife' collapsed into the sea in 1764 with a crash which was said to have been heard many miles away! The stump of this pinnacle can still be seen at low water where it forms a dangerous reef."

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday each week. For more looks at the letter N, please click here.

What Time of the Year it it?

2010-10-14T12:44:00.006+01:00

Yesterday husband and I decided we would go to a local Mall as I particularly wanted to visit a Hobbycraft shop. It was a lovely day, blue skies and sunshine though a little colder than of late and I decided that I would cling on to summer for a bit longer and wore light weight clothes and sandals. I did stick out a bit like a sore thumb as most other people were wearing autumn colours and coats, but it is only mid October and I did have a jacket.

I visited the hobby shop and had a good look around and then we went to a couple more shops and stopped for coffee. We then decided to head nearer to home and pop into a local hostelry for lunch. The sun was still shining and it was definitely warmer than the morning had been. We parked the car and walked into the hotel to see a Christmas tree, fully decorated, stood in the hallway!

I should have asked why so early, but didn't and can only assume that because the owners have only recently taken over it is their way of promoting Christmas Day lunch. It's still a bit early for decorations though, isn't it? Or is it just me - perhaps I had better get my winter clothes out!

ABC Wednesday - M

2010-10-12T22:16:00.009+01:00

M is for:

Moon - A crescent moon setting at sunset, over the Quantock Hills, (you'll have to take my word for it)

and a full moon setting over the Bristol Channel, (as above)!

and one of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, this photo taken in Banff.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at M, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - L

2010-10-05T20:41:00.000+01:00

L is for Laughter

Laughter, it is said, is the best medecine. These lovely little ones are definitely a tonic and certainly make me smile.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at L, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-09-30T19:50:00.008+01:00

Somerset skies - taken from the plane on our way to Spain.

and Spanish skies the following day.

Thanks to the SWF team. For more looks at skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - K

2010-09-28T21:30:00.003+01:00

K is for:

Katie our much loved cat, when she was a kitten

with a kindred spirit - our much loved Buster.

Speaking of which - me and 3 friends at kindergarten age, on our trikes. (I am 2nd from right).

Finally - the King of Cool - possibly as you have not seen him before - with his daughter, Terry, in Los Angeles in 1964.

The photograph is copied from a book "Steve McQueen - A Life in Pictures" published by Pavilion.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter K, please click here.

Holidays and Routines

2010-09-27T08:22:00.006+01:00

Well, we made it back from our holiday. Delayed about 5 hours due to the French Air Traffic Control strike, we finally arrived home at about 11 pm on Thursday night. We had a good holiday though and that was the only problem we encountered. It was a week of relaxing in the warm sunshine, swimming, reading and catching up with old friends. OH celebrated his 69th birthday whilst we were there and the day we came home was our 22nd wedding anniversary!

No further plans for holidays as yet though we may try to get away for a weekend or two before Christmas. Family in Australia are still planning to return to UK and have now instructed agents to sell their house. Because of that, as much as I would love to see them all, and it has been nearly a year since I was there, we are not making any arrangements to travel that far yet. My step-daughter and her family live in New Zealand though so we will be travelling that way before too long.

For now though it is "business as usual" - back into our usual routines. Apart from that though I do have some extra things to do. I have committed myself to holding a coffee morning in aid of charity and will have to arrange that this week. I may be starting at a sewing class this week. Something I have been wanting to do for some while as although I can sew, it is usually confined to sewing on buttons and the odd hem! I have recently become friendly with my next door neighbour and she is encouraging me to go. I think it might be fun! I think she may also be encouraging me to go swimming with her once a week also - watch this space!

Of course, Christmas is already all around us in the shops and eventually, we will have to plan and arrange for that. And my new friend is keen to make Christmas cakes!

Today is going to be busy. I am going to see my mum and do some jobs for her and then meeting a friend for lunch. Later, weather permitting, I hope to go for a walk and pick some blackberries before it is too late. So, I had better get going - I'm not even dressed yet!

ABC Wednesday - J

2010-09-21T22:00:00.008+01:00

This is a scheduled post as I am away until the end of the week.

J is for Jam - well, I had to chooose this didn't I?

and for Jacob, my grandson, whose 10th birthday falls on 20 September.

I know I mentioned him at G but I'm using grandparent's licence here. Happy Birthday to my lovely boy.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team, who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter J, please click here.

Must Dash!

2010-09-16T06:39:00.005+01:00

Having just about unpacked and got my breath back after a few days visiting my daughter in Stratford on Avon, case is now re-packed and husband and I are off to Spain for one week. We will be staying with friends in a village in the south east. We have been there a couple of times before and are looking forward to it very much, catching up with old acquaintances and generally relaxing (husband's mobile will be staying at home!).

Update on my Mum - one scan showed quite severe arthritis in her neck, hence the numbness in her head and tingling fngers and the other showed some thickening in the bowel so she is to have a colonoscopy. Her doctor said it could be nothing but he wants it checked out. I'm wondering if it is scar tissue from her previous operation, as she is showing no other signs of anything sinister! So now we await that appointment and then see her specialist again - on 15 November!

I have scheduled my ABC Wednesday post and will be back again at the end of next week.

ABC Wednesday - I

2010-09-14T15:38:00.010+01:00

I is for Indian Chief. This statue of Sitting Eagle (John Hunter) is in the city of Calgary.

click on the picture for more detail.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter I, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - H

2010-09-07T21:37:00.010+01:00

H is for:

Baby Hedgehog

Honeysuckle

Hibiscus

Hexagonal shapes in the roof of part of the Eden Project in Cornwall

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter H, please click here.

Busy Summer Days

2010-09-05T16:30:00.000+01:00

I can hardly believe that Summer is almost over. The longed for days, when we were knee deep in snow, are now making way for Autumn and then we'll be into Winter again! I have had a busy time lately and when I got to wondering what exactly have I been doing over the past 6 to 8 weeks I realised just how much I have achieved.

I have not been much into blogging it is true and have just about managed to "keep in touch" with most of you, only posting for ABC Wednesday for weeks now.

At the moment I am suffering with a gum infection and have been in quite a lot of pain. I thought at first it must be an abscess but my dentist assured me, after taking an X-ray, that my teeth are in fine shape and that it is a "just" an infection. I have now been on antibiotics for nearly 2 weeks. No pain as such now, but still a fairly sizeable swelling on the roof of my mouth. So first thing on Monday I shall have to contact the dentist again for further advice!

My mother, who is now 88, has been complaining of numbness in the right side of her head and was referred to a specialist in care for the elderly - a lovely man, who was most kind, considerate and thorough. He gave her a really good examination, covering all aspects, taking X-rays, blood tests, an ECG and sending her for two CT Scans. We get the results of all these tests tomorrow. I feel that there is nothing seriously wrong with her and that it is old age taking its toll. He did say to us that he feels that the numb feeling in her head could be due to a trapped nerve in her neck. He also said that she is in very good shape for 88. On Monday we will know for sure.

Our 6 year old grand-daughter came to stay with us for a few days, the first time she had been away from Mummy and Daddy (her parents are divorced so she is used to being apart from one or the other but had never been away from both of them). She was as good as gold, even on the day when she was definitely unwell and could hardly wait to get to bed. We all enjoyed it and when I mentioned to daughter that if she would like us to have her at half-term it would be OK, she replied that Imogen had already asked when she could come again. The only problem we had was that the weather was cloudy and cold and we only made it to the beach once (we live less than 50 yards away).

Fruit and vegetables have done well this year and everyone seems to have a surplus of everything. I took advantage of this last week and managed to make a batch of sweet piccalilli and also chutney. No strawberry jam though!

A very sprightly family friend celebrated her 90th birthday in August and decided to throw a party for her family, a few friends and neighbours. Asking us what we thought about the idea, we wholeheartedly agreed it was a great plan and I volunteered to make her birthday cake. So that was another task to be accomplished.

On top of all of that, I decided I wanted to redecorate our bedroom. Now I am not one to change for change's sake but I had never been happy with the decor since we moved in last October. Husband agreed to help with repainting the walls and I undertook to do the wallpapering. We kept the same colour (eau de nil) and we are both very pleased with the result. Strangely though, it makes the room look bigger!

Next week I shall be going to spend a few days with my daughter in Stratford upon Avon, returning next Monday and then the following Thursday husband and I are off to spend a week with friends in Spain. It's all go!

Skywatch Friday

2010-09-03T07:21:00.012+01:00

What a difference a day makes! This shot was taken at 8.30 pm one evening -

and this 24 hours later

Thanks to SkyWatch Friday team. For more looks at skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - G

2010-08-31T19:27:00.012+01:00

G is for:

Glaciers

These pictures were taken in Glacier Bay on our recent trip to Alaska

And to generate some warmth, here are some photos of my gorgeous grandsons. They both have birthdays in September

Matthew will be 2 years old on 2 September

and Jacob will be 10 on 20 September. I'm taking this opportunity to send birthday greetings to them both.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbit and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more images of the letter G, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - F

2010-08-24T18:11:00.016+01:00

From the window of our first floor flat we can see the island of Flat Holm in the Bristol Channel. On a clear day it is easily recognisable though too far away for me to get a reasonable photograph, those following are from the internet, and we always see the light from the lighthouse as soon as it is dark.

Here is a little of it's history and you can read more about it here.

Since the Dark Ages, Flat Holm has been a retreat for monks and since then has acted as a sanctuary for Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, silver miners, smugglers and cholera victims. Fortified in Victorian times and again in World War II it is perhaps most famous for receiving the first ever radio message across water by Marconi in 1897.

Flat Holm is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Local Nature Reserve. The Project conserves the Island's natural and cultural features, from maritime grassland to Victorian barracks, from seabird colonies to wartime bunkers.

This is the foghorn station on the island

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For further looks at the letter F, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - E

2010-08-17T20:21:00.012+01:00

Last Sunday was ESCAPE Day in our town. ESCAPE is Emergency Services Community Awareness and Promotion Event. Dozens of representative from local Emergency Services including the local Rescue Hovercraft, RNLI, HM Coastguard, Police, Fire and Rescue and Ambulance were on hand to give demonstrations and advice. I had forgotten all about it until I happened to glance out of my windows and saw this.

The weather was beautiful and there were lots of people taking an interest in it all and there was plenty to see. So pleasing to know that we don't just take our Emergency Services for granted.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter D, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - D

2010-08-10T20:30:00.004+01:00

D for Delphiniums

my delphiniums - better next year!

delphiniums at The Eden Project (aren't they beautiful)

I love delphiniums and have tried to grow them, without much success until this year. Planted in my gardens they were the favoured food of the slugs and snails and I would not put down any deterrent as I was anxious about the birds, hedgehogs and frogs that also frequented the garden. When we moved to our first floor apartment I decided I would try again and grow them on our tiny balcony. I have succeeded and am delighted. Dainty blue flowers along the tall stems are still flowering. My determination has paid off at last.

I am very fond of the following poem by A A Milne, which was in a book given to me when I was a child.

The Dormouse and the Doctor
by Alan Alexander Milne 1882-1956

There once was a Dormouse who lived in a bed
Of delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red),
And all the day long he'd a wonderful view
Of geraniums (red) and delphiniums (blue).

A Doctor came hurrying round, and he said:
"Tut-tut, I am sorry to find you in bed.
Just say 'Ninety-nine' while I look at your chest....
Don't you find that chrysanthemums answer the best?"

The Dormouse looked round at the view and replied
(When he'd said "Ninety-nine") that he'd tried and he'd tried,
And much the most answering things that he knew
Were geraniums (red) and delphiniums (blue).

The Doctor stood frowning and shaking his head,
And he took up his shiny silk hat as he said:
"What the patient requires is a change," and he went
To see some chrysanthemum people in Kent.

The Dormouse lay there, and he gazed at the view
Of geraniums (red) and delphiniums (blue),
And he knew there was nothing he wanted instead
Of delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red).

The Doctor came back and, to show what he meant,
He had brought some chrysanthemum cuttings from Kent.
"Now these," he remarked, "give a much better view
Than geraniums (red) and delphiniums (blue)."

They took out their spades and they dug up the bed
Of delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red),
And they planted chrysanthemums (yellow and white).
"And now," said the Doctor, "we'll soon have you right."

The Dormouse looked out, and he said with a sigh:
"I suppose all these people know better than I.
It was silly, perhaps, but I did like the view
Of geraniums (red) and delphiniums (blue)."

The Doctor came round and examined his chest,
And ordered him Nourishment, Tonics, and Rest.
"How very effective," he said, as he shook
The thermometer, "all these chrysanthemums look!"

The Dormouse turned over to shut out the sight
Of the endless chrysanthemums (yellow and white).
"How lovely," he thought, "to be back in a bed
Of delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red.)"

The Doctor said, "Tut! It's another attack!"
And ordered him Milk and Massage-of-the-back,
And Freedom-from-worry and Drives-in-a-car,
And murmured, "How sweet your chrysanthemums are!"

The Dormouse lay there with his paws to his eyes,
And imagined himself such a pleasant surprise:
"I'll pretend the chrysanthemums turn to a bed
Of delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red)!"

The Doctor next morning was rubbing his hands,
And saying, "There's nobody quite understands
These cases as I do! The cure has begun!
How fresh the chrysanthemums look in the sun!"

The Dormouse lay happy, his eyes were so tight
He could see no chrysanthemums, yellow or white.
And all that he felt at the back of his head
Were delphiniums (blue) and geraniums (red).

And that is the reason (Aunt Emily said)
If a Dormouse gets in a chrysanthemum bed,
You will find (so Aunt Emily says) that he lies
Fast asleep on his front with his paws to his eyes.

Perhaps my love of these flowers began then.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter D please click here.

ABC Wednesday - C

2010-08-04T00:01:00.005+01:00

C is for Cassowary

Found in Australia and the Malay Archipeligo. A flightless bird, smaller than an ostrich or emu but apparently is notoriously vicious and a fast runner (up to 30 mph/48 kph. It is mainly nocturnal and lives on fruit and berries and sometimes insects and small animals. A handsome creature. I think it looks as though it is wearing a red bow tie.

I took this photo in Adelaide Zoo a few years ago. My grandson (then about 7 years old) was with me and the bird seemed to be very interested in him. Wherever J moved to the bird followed. I was glad it couldn't get to us although I do feel sorry for the caged creatures.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter C, please click here.

Away for a Few Day

2010-07-29T14:00:00.001+01:00

I'm off to stay with my daughter in Stratford on Avon for a few days. I'll be back again next Wednesday. Hope you all have a good week.

ABC Wednesday - B

2010-07-27T20:18:00.001+01:00

Bottlebrush

with a visiting bee

another bee on a blossoming bush (not sure what it is)

and a butterfly on the buddleia

Many thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter B, please click here.

2010-07-25T18:06:00.013+01:00

I really enjoy listening to the radio.

At the weekend, among other programmes, I listened to "Sounds of the Sixties" presented by Brian Matthew, who has been presenting it since 1990 and to "Desert Island Discs" which is now presented by Kirsty Young. During these two programmes I heard three songs that I haven't heard for a long, long time. The guest to be cast away on the desert island this week was interviewer Lynn Barber and one of her choices was made because it reminded her of her father who used to sing it.

Do you remember this

The day before on Sounds of the Sixties I had heard this - I could only find it in German on You Tube so part of the translation is below also.

Darling, go home, your husband is ill
Is he ill, let 'em give him a pill
Oh come, my dear Franz
Just one more dance
Then I'll go home to my poor old man
Then I'll go home to my poor old man

Darling, go home, your husband is worse
Is he worse, well I am no nurse
Oh come, my dear Franz
Just one more dance
Then I'll go home to my poor old man
Then I'll go home to my poor old man

and so on ......... you get the drift and I expect many of you will remember it.

Finally I was delighted to hear the following Anthony Newley song. Being a huge fan of his I love all that he did. OH and I were lucky enough to see him in the title role of "Scrooge" at the Bristol Hippodrome many years ago. This is the song I heard on Saturday

All great fun.

3D or not 3D (that was the question)

2010-07-23T23:59:00.002+01:00

I have really enjoyed the "Toy Story" films - they are funny and fun and charming - so when I realised the new film "Toy Story 3" was showing locally I asked husband if he would like to go with me. He agreed and we went on Wednesday afternoon. The weather has been stormy this week but it was fine and sunny when we left home to stroll along to the cinema, though we did go armed with raincoats and an umbrella as well as our sunglasses.

Wednesday afternoons are cut price for retired folk and our tickets cost us less than £10 even though the film was showing in 3D - bargain! I asked H if he had seen a recent 3D film but he hadn't watched 3D since he was a boy. I've seen "Scrooge" and "Alice in Wonderland" and said to him that he would love the modern effects.

The time came for us to don our 3D glasses and a short animated film was shown but I was uncertain as to why I should have to wear my glasses then as there was no 3D effect, however soon it was time for the main film to begin. Well, after a few minutes I still could see no 3D effect. I whispered to H "are you getting a 3D effect"? And, yes he was. I gave my glasses another clean with the wipe that had come in the bag with the glasses and tried again. No, no 3D. So I decided to take them back to the pay desk and ask for another pair, as these, clearly, were not working! I rummaged in my bag for the plastic bag and brought out - what's this - my 3D glasses! I had been wearing my sunglasses!!

So, I enjoyed the rest of the film and at the end told H what I had done. He is still laughing!

Great film, by the way.

Skywatch Friday

2010-07-23T05:28:00.008+01:00

We have had stormy skies this week but each evening the setting sun has said goodnight.

Grateful thanks to the Skywatch Friday team who host this each week. For more skies from around the world, please click here

ABC Wednesday - A

2010-07-21T09:34:00.012+01:00

Here we are again at the start of another round of ABC Wednesday.

I'm having to look through the archives for pictures today - so, A is for Aircraft above in azure blue skies

The next two pictures are from our recent trip to Alaska -

This is the tail of our airplane that brought us back to the UK. You can see that Calgary Airport seemed to be having arctic conditions that day.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at other takes on the letter A, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-07-16T09:11:00.006+01:00

Evening skies clearing after an overcast day

Many thanks to Sky Watch Friday team - especially as today is the 3rd anniversary of SWF. To look at skies around the world - please click here

ABC Wednesday - Z

2010-07-14T07:00:00.000+01:00

Z is for Zuiderdam

MS Zuiderdam is the ship that we sailed on to Alaska recently.

A few technical details for those interested:

The total mileage for our voyage, from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan and back to Vancouver was 2017 nautical miles and the average speed was 15.9 knots.

Gross tonnage - 82,305 tons
Max speed 23 knots
Length 935 ft
Width - 106 ft

There were 2000 guests on board and 794 crew

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter Z, please click here.

My 2nd Blogging anniversary

2010-07-13T18:52:00.000+01:00

I can hardly believe that it is 2 years since I first began blogging. I had only been retired for about 7 months and initially thought that my blog would be a diary of sorts but it hasn't quite worked out that way.

So much has happened in the last 2 years too. I have had some wonderful holidays - to Australia (twice) to see my family, to India, visiting the Taj Mahal and more recently to Alaska and Canada seeing some wonderful scenery including the beautiful Rockies.

I have a new grandson, Matthew, who is now nearly 2 years old. He lives in Australia and he was part of the reason for one of my trips there.

Last year we finally managed to sell our house and moved into our present home on the coast.

I had no idea either that I would be "meeting" so many new people and making so many blogging friends. I have enjoyed it all so much even if I don't post as much as I would like. It has been a great experience for me as I am actually quite a shy person and tend to keep myself to myself. So I'd like to thank everyone who looks in at my blog from time to time and leaves such warm and generous comments - I really do appreciate it.

Skywatch Friday

2010-07-08T21:53:00.012+01:00

A beautiful sunset

and the lovely afterglow

Thanks to the SkyWatch Friday team. To look at wonderful skies around the world - please click here

ABC Wednesday - Y

2010-07-06T20:59:00.012+01:00

Y is for Yachts

There is a small sailing club just along the road from us so we often see yachts out on the water, particularly at the weekends. This summer the sailors and jet skiers have been taking advantage of our lovely weather.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter Y, please click here.

Today's Flowers

2010-07-04T12:19:00.007+01:00

Some of the lovely flowers we saw at the Eden Project last week.

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Mothers and Daughters

2010-07-01T15:45:00.002+01:00

Once again I am bemoaning the fact that I haven't been visiting blog world as much as I would like. My own fault and I cannot really say why I haven't - time and energy I suppose (or lack of it). I have at least kept up with ABC Wednesday simply because I really want to complete the alphabet!

Since our holiday I have spent quite a lot of time dealing with my mother. She is fine really, fully recovered from her fall at Easter and when we are away she copes very well and tells everyone that she is well. A different story when I return from wherever I have been, however. She has this complaint or that and because she is 88 I cannot ignore it and have to make whatever arrangements or appointments etc etc. So we have been to the doctor, the dentist and the optician and I have had to arrange a hospital appointment for her to have a check up as her GP cannot find anything wrong! Then there is the weekly shopping trip and hair appointment as well as helping her with household bills - checking and filing, not paying - housework, ironing etc. And so the time goes on! All this and my own household to deal with - no wonder I run out of time and energy.

I also take time to chat with my own daughter on the phone, 2 or 3 times a week. I usually call in the evening just before 9 pm, when I know her little girl will be tucked up in bed and daughter will have, hopefully, finished most of her own chores. Last evening I took the opportunity to call and she told me a story about my grand-daughter (age 6, just). I will try to keep it as brief as possible!

Last Wednesday had been the 40th birthday of my daughter's friend J and the two of them had a "Pamper Day". J's husband volunteered to pick both their little boy and my grand-daughter, Imogen, up from school so that they didn't have to rush back and the day was very enjoyable and the girls returned to J's house suitably pampered and relaxed. Wednesday happens to be Imogen's swimming lesson day so daughter asked her if she wanted to stay and play with B or go swimming, there wasn't time for both. Immy decided on staying to play but when home time came announced that she would like to go swimming now! "No time" said daughter, "I gave you the choice and you decided on staying here". At that, Imogen threw a real tantrum, making a terrible fuss, crying and shouting and saying something about not having cake!

Daughter apologised to her friends, manhandled the unruly child into her car and got her home, where she manhandled her into their house. There she made no bones about telling her what an ungrateful, rude and naughty girl she was and that she was ashamed of her. "Why have I got to be grateful" Imogen asked. "Because A picked you and B up from school, gave you a lovely tea and you have had a lovely time playing. It is J's birthday, it was supposed to be a birthday tea for her and you have been very rude". Imogen, now realising what she had done, was mortified and immediately said that she felt very ashamed. She was told she would have to write a letter of apology to J and her husband and little boy. So Imogen got on with the letter and this is what she wrote -

"Dear J, A and B, I am really sorry for behaving so badly at your house today if there is any cake left can I have some please".

Daughter read it and said "you cannot send this because it looks as though you are only apologising because you want cake. Do another letter". Second letter was done - "Dear J, A and B, I am really sorry for behaving so badly today and I am ashamed of myself. I hope I can come to play again. love Imogen". The letter was given to J at school the following morning.

After the children had gone into school my daughter showed J the original letter. J laughed out loud, thought it extremely funny and asked if she could keep it to show Imogen when she is grown up. Daughter said she would let her have a copy! J also said that Imogen had written what we would probably all like to say but it is only children that have the nerve to say it.

So a lesson learned I think and her punishment was no TV for the rest of the week, which she accepted without any objection! I must add too that Imogen is a very sweet little girl and well behaved normally, but does have her "moments"! But then, don't we all!

ABC Wednesday - X

2010-06-29T22:00:00.004+01:00

Oh my goodness I have had to put my thinking cap on this week. Not even many X words in my dictionary to inspire me, and certainly none that I had a photo for. I wanted to try and stay away from Xmas as it is only June so, how about -

this X-tra large bee, seen at the Eden Project at the weekend!

or, xxx (kisses) on my birthday card from my grand-daughter

Now I'm off to see what Xtraordinary words others have come up with.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter X, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - W

2010-06-22T22:00:00.005+01:00

W is for Willow

Some corkscrew (contorted) willow that we grew and which I decorate at Christmas and Easter.

The Willow Man - a willow statue which stands in a field beside the M5 motorway near Bridgwater in Somerset. It is 12 metres high. I have never been quick enough to get a photo so this in one from the internet.

This fuschia is called "Willow Tinsdale" and is named for my grand-daughter. Yes really! Her maternal grandfather has established a new variety which, after many trials, was accepted two years ago and is now for sale this year for the first time. This is a photo of my plant (along with some lobelia) which was given to me when it first went for trials.

This next is a picture from the internet

and here is the young lady herself who will be 7 years old on Saturday. My grand-daughter Willow

Happy birthday Willow

For more detail click on each photo.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter W, please click here.

I've been tagged

2010-06-18T23:00:00.000+01:00

I've been Tagged

I have been tagged by Monalisa.

I have to answer 10 questions that Monalisa has asked me, then think up 10 questions for 5 people to answer, sounds easy enough...

1. Which holiday destination have you revisted again and again?

Lanzarote, one of the Canary Islands. Probably visited 6 or 7 times but not for a few years now because most of our holidays are now spent in Australia/New Zealand where our son/daughter live. Would like to go back to Lanzarote though.

2. Why did you start a blog?

Began when I retired. Meant it to be a diary of sorts but it has turned out to be more like jottings from time to time.

3. What is your favourite TV programme?

I don't really have a favourite but I do like things like:

Frost, Lewis, Frasier, Friends, Coronation Street, costume drama: Lark Rise to Candleford, Cranford and Pride and Prejudice, chat shows like Parkinson and some documentaries - lately "Tribal Wives".

4. Red wine or white wine?

It has to be red as white wine tends to give me heartburn! Perhaps I should pay more for it!

5. What is the biggest lie you have ever told?

When I was arranging big birthday surprise parties for my husband and engagement party for daughter.

6. Have you ever won money?

Does £10 on the lottery count. Oh and one £50 win on Premium Bonds.

7. Your first childhood memory?

I really don't think I can remember much before I went to school at 5. I recall standing waiting for the bus to take me to school and I have various memories of being at school too. I remember the teacher (Miss Winterbottom) reading us a story called "Horrible Harriet".

8. Do you enjoy cooking or being cooked for?

Both. I do love to cook and have friends and family round and I love to bake and decorate cakes. I also enjoy going out to eat, prefer to friends but restaurants are good too.

9. Have you every had need to call the fire brigade?

Yes, once. Shortly after we moved house, about 17 years ago, we were doing some decorating and had lots of windows open (summer time). One evening, just after dinner we heard a loud bang from upstairs. I thought it was just a door slamming but husband wasn't so sure and went to look. In the back bedroom we still had some boxes not unpacked and they were alight. I called the fire brigade and husband managed to heave the flaming boxes out of the window so that by the time the firemen arrived, about 10 minutes, all was out. They checked everything and all was well. A burnt patch on the carpet and the contents of the boxes were lost (we managed to claim on insurance) but no smoke damage at all. Cause of fire - we believe that a throw-away lighter was in one of the boxes and had been leaking and with the heat in the room and packing paper in the boxes it had all combusted. No real harm done but it would have been a very different story had we been out. Husband used to work some evenings then too and if he had been at work I probably wouldn't have checked and that would have been another story! We were very lucky.

10. How many houses have you lived in?

From childhood - 12.

Now I have to list 5 people to tag. If anyone of you reading this would like to have a go, please feel free.

I am inviting the following to take part -

Sylvia from over the Hill

Jeanni

Gill

Winifred

Mara

if they take it up they should do as I have done, answer the 10 questions below, then set 10 new questions and tag 5 others to take part.

and here are their 10 questions.

1. How do you relax?

2. What possession could you not live without?

3. What makes you laugh?

4. What is your greatest fear?

5. Who do you most admire, living or dead and why?

6. What talent do you wish you had?

7. Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

8. What single thing would improve your life?

9. What is your favourite song or piece of music?

10. What is your greatest achievement?

For those who love Cats

2010-06-17T13:27:00.000+01:00

I first saw this video (there are seven now I believe) a few years ago and it made me laugh so much. I think it will appeal to all of you who have shared their life with a cat and may bring back some memories. This is for Pam too, who has just lost her beloved Frank. Hope it makes you smile Pam.

Simon's Cat Video - (make sure your sound is turned up)

ABC Wednesday - V

2010-06-15T20:58:00.005+01:00

V is for:

Voyage

and this is a view of our ship that took us from Vancouver to Alaska and back, taken from the top of Mt Roberts Tramway in our first port of call - Juneau.

another view from the top

this man was very confident

For more detail click on each photo.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter V, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - U

2010-06-08T20:41:00.002+01:00

Taking advantage of our recent holiday shots.

What can you see on the beach under the trees - an ursine shaped figure - yes! IT IS A BEAR! I was so thrilled even though it was at such a distance - um, well, you would want some distance between yourself and a bear anyway.

If you don't like that picture how about this one.

The undercarriage of the floatplane!

For more detail click on each photo and you really should see that IT IS a bear on the beach!!!

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter U, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - T

2010-06-02T14:00:00.004+01:00

This week, having just returned from travelling, T has to be for:

Trains and tracks, trees and tops of mountains

and Totem Poles

The totem poles are a feature in Stanley Park, Vancouver.

For more detail click on each photo.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter T, please click here.

Planes, Trains and a Cruise Ship

2010-06-01T13:11:00.005+01:00

Well, we are back from our holiday and have had a wonderful time. It was a trip that we had been wanting to do for a few years but for various reasons (children living on the other side of the world, work and other commitments and, of course the finances) we have only just got round to it. It was booked very quickly in February and we went with another couple (our friends with whom we have had several memorable holidays) and we all thoroughly enjoyed it.

We flew to Vancouver and the following day joined a cruise ship and sailed on the inside passage to Alaska, arriving back in Vancouver a week later. Two more nights in Vancouver then it was "all aboard" the Rocky Mountaineer train for a two day trip through the Rockies to Banff, via Kamloops. Magnificent scenery all the way and some sightings of wildlife, which I found particularly exciting. Our weather was mostly warm and sunny so we were very lucky. We ended up in Calgary for our last day and there we had snow, so we had a variety of weather! We arrived back home on Sunday and yesterday I was exhausted and slept a good part of the day.

I've been getting to grips with the laundry today and on Thursday I shall be packing a weekend bag as we are off to Stratford on Avon to stay with our daughter for a few days. I will post some holiday snaps from time to time but in the meantime I will be trying to catch up with your posts.

As I said before we have had a wonderful holiday, it was an unforgettable experience but it is good to be home.

Today's Flowers

2010-05-30T07:00:00.003+01:00

The humble dandelion - only a wildflower, but look at the detail in it. So pretty - and some of our fields are yellow with them at the moment. Sign of summer maybe?

and, of course, once the flower is over the seed head is so distinctive and delicate. The dandelion clock!

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-05-28T07:00:00.004+01:00

Watching the changing colours as the sun sets.

Thanks to the SkyWatch Friday team. For a look at skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - S

2010-05-26T07:00:00.004+01:00

S is for Signpost

This post has been scheduled as I am still on my travels - should be back next week.

Another photo from last November's trip to Adelaide and the Toy Factory in Gumeracha.

Thanks to Denise Nesbitt and her team for hosting ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter S, please click here.

Today's Flowers

2010-05-23T07:27:00.005+01:00

cherry blossoms

This is a scheduled post as I am on holiday for a couple of weeks.

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-05-21T07:00:00.003+01:00

How lovely to see the lovely blue sky through such pretty branches.

This is a scheduled post as I am on holiday for a couple of weeks.

Thanks to the SkyWatch Friday team. You can see skies from around the world if you click here.

ABC Wednesday - R

2010-05-19T07:00:00.003+01:00

R is for Railway and Rocking Horse

This and next week's are scheduled posts and will not be linked as I am on my travels.

Two photos taken last November in Adelaide

A disused railway line

and The Biggest Rocking Horse in the World at The Toy Factory in Gumeracha.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and the team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter R, please click here.

Today's Flowers

2010-05-16T07:26:00.007+01:00

Wild flowers in the woodland - pretty primroses.

This is a scheduled post as I am on holiday for a couple of weeks.

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-05-14T07:00:00.003+01:00

Australian skies this week - another shot taken last November.

Unable to link this week as this is a scheduled post. I will be away until 30 May.

Thanks to SkyWatch Friday team - for more skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - Q

2010-05-11T20:57:00.003+01:00

Q is for Quantocks

From our windows we have views of the Quantock Hills, (apologies for the hazy photo) an area of outstanding natural beauty. You can read more here. It is a lovely place to visit with pretty villages, forest walks and trails and lots of wildlife.

For the next 2 weeks (R and S) I shall be on holiday so my posts for ABC Wednesday will be scheduled.

Thanks to Mrs Denise Nesbitt and the team who host ABC Wednesday. For more looks at the letter Q, please click here.

Today's Flowers

2010-05-09T07:30:00.002+01:00

My orchids suffered a bit from our house move last September - moved twice in the space of three months and fairly neglected during that time. They usually flower from January to August - however, this one began flowering in March and the others have now got flower shoots forming, so I remain hopeful!

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-05-07T11:30:00.000+01:00

One of the pleasures of living where we do is watching the wonderful sunsets, even after a dull and cloudy day.

Thanks to the Skywatch Friday team. For more wonderful skies around the world, please click here.

Hedgehogs

2010-05-06T18:40:00.015+01:00

I received the following in an email from my daughter today. She didn't take the photographs - we do not know who the photographer is.

Hello to you all

I have come here today to tell you to be so very careful when you are driving

because this is the time of year when I am just learning to walk

so please don't run me over

just look how sweet I am

thank you.

Aaah!

ABC Wednesday - P

2010-05-05T07:52:00.000+01:00

P is for Postcards - Old and New

I have always loved postcards. I like to send them, am always delighted to receive them and keep them in a slot-in album so that I can more easily read again the messages written on the back.

I think it must go back to my childhood and the memory of rummaging through a drawer at my grandparent's house where there were countless postcards. My cousin and I still recall finding the sets of cards that told a story, some with soldiers going off to war, and the Victorian-style ones with flowers and lace.

About 20 years ago I went to a Craft Fair and came across a stall selling Original Framed Postcards (50 - 100 years old). Looking through, these caught my attention and I couldn't resist buying them.

This first one was sent to a Miss Bower and dated 15 July, though unfortunately I cannot make out the year. There is a halfpenny stamp on and I think the King is Edward VII. It was posted in Sheffield.

I love the picture on the front, such a beautiful young woman.

The message on the back reads "Dear Edna - Thanks for present tell Jessie I will write on Sunday, ask Jessie to look in the top drawer in the dresser and send me my registration card as soon as you can I have to change my address on it. love from Mother

The second one is a little water colour, which is quite simple but lovely.

It wasn't posted just simply inscribed on the back with the message "From Your Loving 'Aunt' with best Easter wishes" and is dated 1 April 1934.

I treasure them both.

A few weeks ago, after daughter and grand-daughter had been visiting I found a teddy bear under the spare bed. Knowing it to be a part of the bedtime routine for my now 6 year old grand-daughter I took a photo of it with Winnie the Pooh and Beddy Bear (who both reside with us)and emailed it to my daughter with the message - "Winnie the Pooh and friends, does one of them need to be sent home"? Speaking to my daughter the following day she said that she had asked Imogen if she would like me to send Night-night Teddy home or should he have a holiday with us until their next visit. GD replied that he could have a little holiday until her next visit. So I sent her a postcard

and on it I wrote "Dear Imogen, I am having a lovely holiday with Winnie the Pooh but I miss you. I am trying to be good and Winnie says that if I am Very Good he will get me some ice cream and honey when Nanny isn't looking. I am looking forward to seeing you when you come back again. Love from Night Night Teddy".

It duly arrived and she read it and later confided to her Mummy that she thought that I had written the card. Asked why she thought that she replied "because Night Night Teddy can't write unless I help him". No fooling her then!

ABC Wednesday is hosted by Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team. For more looks at the letter P, please click here.

My World Tuesday

2010-05-04T06:40:00.000+01:00

I had a busy time last week. It was our grand-daughter's 6th birthday and she had asked me to make her birthday cake. She made her choice from my book -

On Monday I set to and made the cake.

I decided to make it three colours/flavours, vanilla, strawberry and chocolate - a bit fiddly but this is how it looked -

Then it had to be cut and shaped and with the necessary ingredients, my book and a little patience, this is the finished cake! I wonder why she chose this one!

Imogen lives with her mummy in Stratford upon Avon (about 100 miles away - 160.93 k) so on Tuesday OH and I drove to Stratford to deliver the cake in time for her birthday party on Wednesday. In the late afternoon I strolled into the town (about 15 minutes walk from daughter's house). It was a lovely day and I took a few photographs.

This statue of William Shakespeare is in a lofty position, on a plinth

overlooking some of the lovely flower beds in the surrounding Bancroft Gardens

This view across the river is of the church where he is buried

The Royal Shakespeare Theatre (now without scaffolding) has undergone extensive transformation work since 2007 and is due to be re-opened during 2010 - read more here

and this is a view across the river in the other direction

There is a bird sanctuary here

and this Canada Goose was having a lovely bathe

Grand-daughter loved her cake, had a wonderful time on her birthday and we came back home for a rest!

Thanks to the My World Tuesday team - Klaus, Sandy, Wren, Fishing Guy, Louise and Sylvia. For more looks at other peoples' worlds, please click here.

Today's Flowers

2010-05-02T08:23:00.012+01:00

Here are some of the flowers I was given for my birthday back on 10 April. These beautfully scented lilies were from my daughter

and these zingy chrysanths were from a friend - and they are still looking good today!

Thanks to Luiz, Denise, Laerte and Sandy who host Today's Flowers. To look at more beautiful and unusual flowers from all over the world, please click here.

Skywatch Friday

2010-04-29T22:20:00.000+01:00

Since living here we have seen some remarkable sunsets and I have to restrain myself from reaching for the camera most fine evenings. Last week they were particularly spectacular when they were enhanced by the cloud of volcanic ash and I have already posted a couple of shots taken during that time.

However, the shot below is one taken before the Icelandic volcano erupted and we feel very fortunate to witness such beauty on a regular basis.

Thanks to Klaus, Sandy Wren, Fishing Guy and Sylvia who host Skywatch Friday. For more pictures of skies around the world, please click here.

ABC Wednesday - O

2010-04-28T00:05:00.000+01:00

O is for Orange

This is the sand-dredger that sails past from time to time

and these photos of the orange trees were taken in South Australia last November

Much more recently - a volcanic sunset taken last week - one of the benefits of the Icelandic volcanic eruption!

ABC Wednesday is hosted by Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team. For more looks at the letter O please click here.

ABC Wednesday - N

2010-04-20T22:35:00.003+01:00

N is for Necklaces

Sorting through drawers and a necklace stand recently I realised just how many necklaces I have. More than I need really. Here are some of them.

The one I wear the most is probably the little gold heart but I do particularly love the turquoise pendant.

ABC Wednesday is hosted by Mrs Denise Nesbitt and her team. For more looks at the letter N please click here.

Volcanic Ash!

2010-04-19T22:01:00.005+01:00

Last Thursday morning, switching on the TV whilst we had our early morning "cuppa" we heard the local newsreader say "all flights out of Bristol are cancelled due to volcanic ash". OH and I looked at each other and at the same time exclaimed "volcanic ash"! However all was revealed in national news a few minutes later. Of course we are all aware now of the effects the volcanic eruption in Iceland is having and I have just heard on our late news that the disruptions are to continue in spite of there being hopes earlier today that restrictions may be lifted tomorrow. A new cloud of ash is making its way towards us.

We have been told that we are likely to see some wonderful sunsets due to the layer of volcanic dust in the atmosphere. We are fortunate that where we live we often see magnificent sunsets but they have been brighter over the last few days - this was tonights.