The Lockdown Gang - Carry on Regardless.

My mother had RA, brought on apparently, by my birth. She became very thin and I remember her winding fine wool round and round her wedding ring (as you do when making pompoms) to make sure it couldn't slip off her finger. The wool was pushed round so it couldn't be seen and seemed to work well.

By sheer coincidence, like Missedout I've been writing stories too (I often do this for my DGS) but I'm using Edmud Dulac's illustrations from Gutenberg as I can no longer see well enough to do my own.

Had a very quick but exceedingly welcome visit (and a huge bear hug) from my son who popped over to pick up the bassinette stored in my garage.

He's still talking about a dwelling we can all share - separate apartment for me I'm far too reclusive to live with anyone but I fear their finances won't run to it in my lifetime. Still, it's nice to dream.

Your poor DH Doodle but at least it was only water.

I'm afraid I do a lot more of that: knocking things off and/or over these days. Broke a glass I was washing-up just yesterday by hitting its edge on the tap as I took it from the water. Glass is pretty much invisible to me now.

Missedout your story of mothering looking after the builders reminds me of the early days here. It was a building site for 12 months and I used to leave out weather-appropriate foods/drinks on the deck for the workers.

Doodle I've polished off the silver with the last of the Duraglit, Jeeves will pick up a new tin tomorrow.
He's rinsed and dried it all and put it sparkling away.

Nearly time to sign out so I'll just check the hot choc and the 'additives'

I feel like Frank Spencer hanging onto the bus this morning....this gang lives at a fast pace! Yesterday was completely gobbled by getting the dog bathed and trimmed and the new BBQ assembled.....in the kitchen....which log jammed the whole house. Why do some men insist on doing things involving vast amounts of polestyrene, plastic, boxes, screws and swearing in the kitchen? And more to the point, right across the back door and the route to the utility room. Exasperated!

We bought the monster in an end of season sale and got it for a very good price. They then knocked a further 10% off because we agreed to take the showroom model.....we were very happy because we wouldn't have to assemble it. They delivered......one in a box! So although it was a good price we had to work on it. Mr M says it will see him out......which seems to be a quality mark!

DD and SiL have begun their IVF journey but I'm concerned about the emotional toll on them. My poor girl wants it to work so much. Her hospital insists that they have counselling during the process to support them and I'm all in favour of that. They have secured funding for four attempts But I think the emotional price will be enormous.

Doodle The Two Popes is a good film. We thoroughly enjoyed it. I had to smile at your DH and the water....Mr M takes a glassful to bed with him most nights to enable him to wash the bedroom ? He is diabetic so he also has his testing kit, a bag of jelly babies and his current book on his nightstand. He tends to wobble a bit if he stands up too quickly and the water is always the thing that gets scattered.

I have a few hundred bulbs arriving from Holland today. They seemed a good idea when I ordered them in the early summer but I am now faced with actually planting them. It's too early for tulips so I think I'll get cracking with soil prep today while the sun's shining.

I'll take my rings off before I get started!

Hello to our friendly gangsters, and again a shortened version of what I would like to say!!

Reading about your husband`s mishap Doodle brought back plenty of memories with the culprit being myself!!!
In our last house our bedroom carpet had a tale to tell from when I always had a glass at my bedside,sometimes,orange, sometimes lemon and also ribena.............say no more!
I was in constant trouble!
I must be exceptionally clumsy!
I now only drink water and strangely enough have not (yet!) disgraced myself here on our off white carpet!
But even water....... if its a full glass still needs clearing up.I hope you were kind with your man!!

Sorry hearing your beloved is having sleep problems Grammaretto it can be so debilitating,and seems to go in spirals,hopefully there will be a turn in the opposite directio soon.Spirits soon sink when one gets over tired.
Hopefully there will be a change to this pattern soon.

Gasped in horror!!! Yes I did on hearing you actually entered the Market in Swansea Cherry...which is very full and equally busy........you are braver than I am!

Our day was eventful in its own way.We both went to the same nearby salon to have our hair trims,sadly as I read in one of the GN threads gone were all the Covid safe rules they started off with and this is truly upsetting and worrying.Not a mask,no thoughts to extra cleaning and other customers heading in........we are now left in a quandary.
Certainly not sure we dare return because of this.
However you should have seen how my deweply lilac locks when trimmed blended in with the salon`s drift wooded floor!!!
Not to waste an afternoon we took it upon ourselves to head into an area called "Withybush Woods" which has some really ancient trees.Yes we both love trees too and so this is a favourite walk going back over the years.
On arriving the small car park was almost full so after our upset at the Hair Salon we almost turned about.
Fortunately we chose to stay,it is a circular walk and gpoes of at all manner of extra angles,in the centre is a large pond where there are families of swans with their young plus lots of ducks,all happily being fed by the little ones.Seats are dotted around so we could walk and sit,peruse and walk again!!
This time the very few we met all gave us two a truly wide berth.............the first time we have actively witnessed social distancing in our area.
A very pleasant time spent,lots of fresh air and yes two that slept like babes last night!
Such a joy and relief to see my dear man coping much better again at this moment in time..........hence I am feeling better myself.

What a glutton you are for that garden of yours Mamissimo but come the spring you will have us all very envious when you show us your florals in abundance!!
Wishing your DD & Si L every good wish, such a costly and emotional undertaking.May they be the fortunate ones.
Just not fair...... when all around are these unwanted pregnancies and children.

Did I hear you have chosen a lavender hair shade Bradfordlass??............I am sure you will have compliments, although of course, rather tame compared to some of your more vibrant colours!!

Awaiting a friend delivering some fresh fruit,sadly this is something we cannot order in our tesco shopping. Having long learnt they arrive over ripe and go off almost before eaten,or else they are ancient ..........having been retrieved from big freezers at some point.

Weather certainly chillier,but dry with even glimpses of blue sky and even the golden orb making an odd appearance.

Sending you all every best wish for a pleasant........and safe.....weekend,hope you all keep out of mischief and again I hope to have more time to be with you...........still needing extra rest...............it must be age related!!!

Good afternoon lovely gangsters ☺️

I had a very disturbed and disturbing night ?. I was so tired after my trip out and longed for a restful sleep but my neighbour had other ideas ?. I got into bed and settled comfortably to read, my usual nightly routine. A few minutes later off she went ?, whiplashing, shouting and banging about. This went on until 3am! I finally fell asleep, absolutely exhausted.

If I hadn't had a craving (definitely not pregnant) for faggots from the market I wouldn't have contemplated going to Swansea market Panache but I just couldn't get them out of my mind. I'm really looking forward to eating them later ?. I know my way around the market really well and there are two routes, especially, that hardly ever have any traffic so I always use these. I was surprised really it wasn't very busy, yes all the stallholders but we avoided all but two of them and I did have a very fetching (not) blue and white striped mask on ?. I won't be doing it again in a hurry though.

Yes, Doodle, I bought my niece2 a lovely torquoise blue leather purse with an applique daisy and a sun on it.

Someone's knocking on the door... must go.

Good morning, oh no it's much later than that.
I have a bulb story too Mamissimo a good one and a less good one.

The good one first: When we first moved here 40 yrs ago I planted a sack of 100s of mixed daffodil bulbs for the sunny bank.
Fast forward 20 yrs and a bee keeper was keeping her hives here so knew our garden well. She was at the Botanics one day in Edinburgh and overheard a conversation mentioning our house. A couple of enthusiastic daffodil specialists were looking through an old bulb catalogue dating from 1890s and some of the entries related to the then owner of our house, the paper maker C W Cowan. Bee keeper's ears pricked up when they wondered aloud if the garden still existed.
The upshot was they all came when the bulbs were flowering (I apologised for planting all the extra bulbs but they said that was not important as daffs don't cross polinate) They identified various ancient varieties and one or two which they had thought extinct. I allowed them to take specimens to cultivate and we became friends.
The couple now have a croft in the north of Scotland from where they send special daffodil bulbs around the world.
croft16daffodils.co.uk/

My less good story:
We have a weedy small bank where I planted lots of expensive spring bulbs a couple of years ago and hardly anything came up. The squirrels had eaten them.

DH is sleeping soundly.
I am sorry about the wretched covid affecting everyone especially Panache
On the plus side I would never have met you lovely people!

Bradfordlass that’s a nice idea to have in your mind that your DS wants you to live with him and his family. A big hug, just what you need ?
I think you would be really good at writing stories you have a lovely way with words. The Princess and the pea was always one of my favourites.
We went to the Gutenberg museum in Mainz in Germany. DH was enthralled he has an interest in printing and we had a fascinating afternoon there. Unfortunately the time we had was limited as we were on a river cruise and had to get back to the boat.
I hadn’t realised glass would be difficult for you but of course it will be hard to see. Hope you didn’t cut yourself when you broke the glass.
The silver looks stunning, thanks to you and Jeeves for doing it. . Perhaps we ought to have a gala dinner one night (or day). Sleep well.
Mamissimo that Frank Spencer comment brought a welcome smile to my face this morning.
For anyone who wants to enjoy it again, I’ve found a clip
www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFLpwRMS00g
I was only thinking the other day that I meant to ask if they still had the BBQ at the garden centre when you went back for it. Let us know how you get on when you try it out.
I can understand your concern for your DD and SIL on their IVF treatment. It’s good they have counselling but as you say a very emotional time. I hope it is successful for them.
Read out your comment about washing the bedroom to my DH. Made him laugh. He thinks he’s the only one in the world who knocks things over, so nice for him to know others do it too. I might have to sneak into your bedroom at night and steal some of his jelly babies...I love them ?
A few hundred bulbs. That will keep you busy. Are they all tulips? Yes keep those rings safe. ?
Hello Panache yes I was kind to him. He always feels awful when he knocks things over and is so hard on himself. It has taken me a long time to persuade him that he cannot help his hands shaking and he should not blame himself when these things happen. He copes wonderfully with a whole load of ailments and is far more precious than a carpet.
When my firstborn was little I dropped a whole bottle of calpol on the cream carpet. Sticky, sweet and coloured. Took ages to get it out. There was always a mark ?
Sorry your experience at the hairdressers was not good. I do believe some are much better than others. Perhaps you could phone round and find a better one for next time. I’m sure your lovely lilac locks look stunning ?
Your walk in the woods with the pond sounds so relaxing. No wonder you slept well last night and glad that MrP is feeling a little better. Enjoy a relaxing day today.
Have a good day all.

Evening gangsters, a quick catch up before supper ...

Doodle, what an interesting visit to the Gutenberg museum. Did you enjoy your river cruise? We have done one down the Seine, which was lovely.
Your Bargello quilt is utterly lovely. Do tell us a bit more about how you made it.
Grammaretto, what a coincidence about the overheard conversation between the bulb growers. They must have been delighted to visit your garden and identify ancient varieties. Next spring, it would be lovely to see photos of those varieties.
Cherry, sorry you had a bad night ... but have I missed something? What was your neighbour doing ‘whiplashing, crashing and banging about’ until the early hours? It sounds dreadful.
Panache ‘Withybush Woods’ sound lovely and with a name like that they should be in a fairytale or in Enid Blyton’s ‘The Faraway Tree’ ( my sister and I loved that book when we were children ).
In stark contrast with your trip to the hairdressers. Given how careful all we shielders have had to be, I can imagine the conditions in that salon were very concerning for you.
Bradfordlass again thank you for the link to Whirlygig tv. What a journey down memory lane. I sent it to my nephew and it caused much amusement.
It made me a bit melancholy too, because I know how much my sister would have loved it and we would have got giggly together. She died in 2003 and I still miss her.
Nevertheless it’s a great site and I have loved looking through it.
Missedout, I will look forward to hearing about your fairy story for your DGD. I wonder if Panache’s ‘Withybush Woods’ will make an appearance?

We are ordering a takeaway this evening and will watch a film, so no cooking in our house tonight.
Have a lovely evening gangsters and apologies to anyone I’ve missed. ?

I only went to see who was at the door.... got caught up in the footie . It was only a lost soul at the door. He kept his distance and was very apologetic for coming a'knocking at our door, he said he chose to knock on ours because we had a friendly looking garden ? ?.

Missedout, you must have a sympathetic appearance (not surprised) to end up being agony aunt to your young builders ?. I think it's wonderful that you are writing your story with a socially awkward fairy for your DGD who has anxiety issues. Perhaps she will relate to the character and it may be a help to her. Great idea. I was going to suggest that you use stock images for your illustrations but that may be difficult with your fairy ?.
None of my rings fit properly either, they are all too big. I am always catching them on doorhandles too. In the past I've gone into jewellers to try to get them resized but the majority of places don't do half a size down only a full size and that's no good for me.

What a wonderful tale you have to tell about the rare daffodils Grammaretto and a wonderful outcome to be part of ?. I've had a quick look at the site and will return to it, thanks for the link it looks like a wonderful site.
Sorry to hear your story about the squirrels eating your bulbs, not an as expensive loss but our wildflower seeds were eaten by the magpies this year.
I hope that Mr G sleeping so much is a sign of what he needs at the moment, to rejuvenate, and that by his appointment on Tuesday he'll be more refreshed.

I haven't checked out your links yet but I did remember what the other children's series was called - Chigley. I loved the herbs so I must take a look. Two other children's series' I loved were Mr Ben and a controversial one - HR Puff 'n Stuff ?. I had no idea what it was referring to ?. I love the Princess and the Pea image. I've seen real bed piled high with matresses like that, not quite as extreme, in a museum but I can't remember where it was.
I'm not surprised to hear that you too have been writing stories. You are clearly a good writer, your blogs testify to that. You have a style that piques interest and retains it, not an easy thing to do.
It doesn't seem fair that your new homecare girl is unwilling to take you out, for your own safety when you're allowed to go out.
It was lovely to hear about your DS and his (step) son, a demonstration that care and love are what makes a father (or mother for that matter) not biology.

Mamissimo, in answer to your question as to why men insist on doing things that involve, well let's just say masses of stuff - I don't know. I'd ask my WP but I know he'll claim he's puzzled by the question at all ? ?
Being nosey... may I ask whether the monster bbq is a charcoal or gas one?
I haven't stopped thinking about your DD and SiL. I think all couples going through IVF are meant to have counselling, although I've heard stories that it doesn't always happen. I'm glad they are as it is such an emotional undertaking.
You've got 100s of bulbs to plant up you say? My word!
My WP thought he had overdone it by buying 100 tulip bulbs and 50 alium bulbs ?.

Panache, hairdressers are meant to be rigorous in following the covid prevention rules. It's a sorry state of affairs that some are already lapsing. You had masks though, yes?
Again you have taken me down memory lane with Withybush wood. To my recollection it is indeed a beautiful place. I am so pleased that you were up to visit it and that you both slept well afterwards.
I hope that your friend came with all the lovely fresh fruit that you wanted.

You haven't missed anything Nortsat. It's a difficult and sensitive situation with my neighbour, not for me to detail.
I understand Nortsat, some things do provoke the kind of emotions you talk about. My brother died far too young and,whilst ten years later, so did my wonderful SiL. There are some things I hear or see, despite the many years that have gone by since, that are bittersweet. Warm memories, lovely times, sharing joys and laughter.

So is there any one of our little group who, either themselves or their husbands/partners, hasn't or doesn't spill drinks. I'm useless, I have no spacial awareness when I'm conscious and have had quite a few mishaps with drinks when I've gone into a seizure ?. The funniest was when I arrived at Kings College Hospital late at night and was brought a coffee shortly after arrival. I had a seizure and flung it everywhere ?. All over me, all over the bed and all over the floor. My welcome to the staff ?.
Your spill with the calpol doesn't sound funny at all, all that stickiness! To be honest, no-one's tale is funny really but as long as no-one has been injured then it certainly isn't the end of the world, just damned annoying ?

Off to prep the veg' for tomorrow now before a bit of tv. Night all.

Left your name out Doodle

Nortsat we did enjoy our river cruise but we did the Rhine. Bit more industrial than we’d bargained for. Spent lots of the day watching the coal barges go by.
So you want me to tell you a bit about how I made my Bargello quilt. Ok well I bought a number of fabric pieces (40) of blending colours both light and dark. I then cut them into strips of different widths from ¾ “ to 2 ½ inches. I then sewed them all together so I had one huge piece of fabric. Then, with the strips laying horizontally, I cut the fabric into pieces again vertically at various widths again from ¾” to 2 ½ inches. Then the fun starts. The strips are now made up of different size rectangles, with each strip containing all 40 colours. I then joined them together again but varying which rectangle I started with in order to make a pattern. Moving them up and down. The Bargello patterns are like waves you move the pieces around so the patterns flow. I bet you wished you hadn’t asked now don’t you ?
Hope you enjoy your takeaway.
Grammaretto I see that once again I have missed a post whilst I was typing mine. I hadn’t read the story about your bulbs. What a fascinating story. It’s amazing what an overheard conversation can become. I love daffodils they are the first flowers we get along the riverbank in early spring.
Hope MrGis ok and has a good night.
I don’t know what’s the matter with me. I missed your post too Cherry . I was going to ask what was going on with your neighbour too but on reading your further comment about it in your second post, I will say no more. Just hope you have a quieter night tonight.
Your nieces purse sounds nice. Hope she likes it.
A friendly looking garden. That sounds nice.
That’s ok Cherry I know who spilled the calpol. ?
We had a nice walk this afternoon but like most weekends it was very busy so we spent a lot of time closely inspecting bushes or brick walls. It’s quieter during the week.
Jeeves has made the hot chocolate and has put out a plate of biscuits for anyone who wants one. Sleep well all.

Bradfordlass while I was reading Nortsat and Cherry’s last posts, they made some comments about things you had posted and I didn’t know what they were talking about. On looking back I see I missed your last but one post too. Whatever am I thinking.
Thank you for the links. I will enjoy looking at those.
I’m sorry your replacement homegirl wouldn’t take you out. It must be heartbreaking to leave your child behind but you are right families have to do this when there is no work for them at home.
Glad all is well with the baby scan. How lovely that your grandson and your son get on so well. I’m sure your son is a good dad to him.
Thank you to you and Jeeves for making sure we’re all ok at night. Sleep well.

Oh dear Panache just when you don't need any extra anxiety, you couldn't even enjoy your visit to the hairdresser.
I've had a wee look around your area and there are at least 4 mobile ones who will come to you. Much safer and you can ask in advance if they will observe strict PPE rules.

It's years since I had faggots and you can't get them here. I used to love them sliced cold with salad, or hot with chips and mushy peas.

I know what it's like to have slightly socially inept neighbours. We have young people over the fence who 'share' their loud music with everyone in the vicinity. Even across 20 yards, 6 walls and closed doors, I can feel that bass. It's worse when they play it in their garden. Then I literally can't hear my audio book only a couple of feet from my ear. And I'm not even the nearest elder to their home.

Because I have had similar accidents with water, many of them, I now take a sipper bottle to bed with me. If I knock that over, and of course I do, nothing comes out.

Yes, IVF is bound to be emotional but the alternative would be worse. One has to try everything. I think of them daily and wish them success.

What a lot of bulbs to plant, Mamissimo. Have you ever heard Ladies of Letters?
In that, Vera (I think) leaves behind a strange device at Irene's house.
Irens is puzzled, says it 'buzzes and seems to need batteries' but puts it to good use as 'it looks ideal as a dibber for my Spring bulbs.'

Cherry Chigley: www.youtube.com/watch?v=N-hQ6-biWoo
Never watched H R Puff n Stuff as the evil intro put me off. Did the horrid series have some deeper meaning?

You're right about a step-dad, especially a good one, sometimes being better than a 'real' abusive one.
My grandson made a family tree video at school and there was not one mention of his father. He regards my son and me as family. That was lovely to know and watch.

I am so grateful for him and his laughter when he's watching a silly show like his favourite Count Arthur Strong, it's so precious when I know what he's been through.

Glad to hear Grammaretto's DH is having better sleeps.
It's what he needs, bless him.

Doodle I was telling Jeeves that some of the silver was Georgian. He said, 'Then we should ask George to clean it.'
<sigh>

Update on Trees released to supporters:
"Sunday, Sep 6
At dawn this morning an Aukati-rāhui was declared by members of Tangata Kaitiaki as a means to save a 100 year old stand of native trees in Avondale, including rare black maire and Kawaka.
Rihari Nahi of Ngāti Whātua Ki Kaipara placed the “korowai” of protection over the stand at 52-58 Canal Road as a means to stop contractors from destroying the remaining 23 native giants from being felled to make way for development."

A rāhui is a ban on any action which might endanger or harm natural reserves (fish, seafood, animals and bio.)

Traditionally it's something Maori and Pakeha will uphold but I confess I have little hope of it succeeding in this case.
Both Council and developer stand to lose millions if it is.

Hello gangsters,
I was too tired to come in for my hot chocoalte last night after the quiz which is very late because we can't beging until 9pm our time when NZ is just waking up, NZ does very well so I think it pays to have a fresh brain and not old and sozzled like ours. We knew the answers once we were told them too!

I am so sad about your trees Bradfordlass
I know not all protests are successful but some are.
In my experience you have to persuade the perpetrator that it is their idea because a confrontation just makes them more entrenched and angry.

A woodland and SSSI (site of special scientific interest) near here was going to be destroyed to widen a road and tree protesters came from all over the world to camp in the trees. The protesters used to entertain visitors at weekends and I was treated to tea and biscuits around their camp fire. It was a proper organised arrangement and folk lived there for years. The tree houses were so well built they survived storms. I don't know exactly what the reason was but the road was deemed either too expensive or not required by a new political group so the campers were redundant. There was a tragic fire where someone died but despite that the camp continued
www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/bilston-glen-camp-determined-beat-bypass-plans-896819

Good luck with all that bulb planting. Mamissimo and enjoy the barbeque. It really has not been BBQ weather here.
Panache I hope you can find a more sensitive hairdresser. I feel the same about mine. He didn't bother with a mask at all though I kept mine on. He is a one- man -band so I guess we don't overlap with other customers.

Our DC were deprived and we didn't have TV until I bought a tiny B&W one for babysitters! Now ofcourse they all do as do the DGC. TV is the babysitter.

Your patchwork sounds really lovely to do Doodle I am enjoying knitting with real wool again. The school cardi was acrylic because DGD finds wool itchy.

Better get on with Sunday. See you later!

Good morning!

Well we dutifully donned our woolies and huddled round the bbq while Mr M did his thing....and then charged indoors to eat. A real British bbq ?

Yesterday I made a start on clearing a large raised bed of the temporary planting of cosmos that I chucked in to give us some colour until the real planting plan could be executed. That £2.50 packet of seed was remarkable value - it gave us six square meters of thicket and it will take me morning to shred it! I have a snarky feeling that I will be weeding it out of The bed forever.

Today I will have joy of ordering the shrubs and plants that will live there permanently. It's been an absolute treat to plant a garden from scratch after more than 40 years of gardening. It's been years in the planning and the 'nursery' behind the shed is stuffed with plants from my DM and DGM's gardens that I've kept going and propagating from year to year.

We were very late to bed last night because we had to catch Fergal and the beagle to give them their flea treatment. They both hate it and put up a determined fight but their back legs have been scratching like one of those cotton reel and rubber band motors so it had to be done.

Panache when I had my mop cut at the end of June my hairdressers was super tight on PPE; they have decided to tighten it further to protect their staff from the covidiots who put them at risk daily. They've introduced a 'hush' policy to stop unnecessary chat and all customers have to wear masks as well as the staff.

It's obvious really that the older and more vulnerable in society understand and adhere to actions to keep ourselves safe so we aren't the ones causing the climb in infections. We understand the word 'No' and that sometimes we need to wait patiently for what we want. I hope the darned virus doesn't change its spots and start really attacking them!

It's a roast beef and blackberry and apple crumble day today so I'd better get cracking with some prep before I head outside.

Bradfordlass you must have made your grandson so welcome that he obviously regards you as his own, which is of course what you actually are in all the ways that matter. Sounds as though one little boy has found a happy home, and soon a new baby to bring more joy and happiness to the family. ?
I have a very low noise threshold. I can’t stand hearing other people’s music when I’m trying to read. The tinnitus doesn’t help. If it’s music I like it’s not so bad but if it’s something I don’t enjoy I can’t seem to turn my mind off it.
Whatever are you suggesting Mamissimo uses to plant her bulbs ?
I hope the Council take a different view about the trees. I hate any trees being felled but ones of such historic value should not be brought down.
Grammaretto nice to know you are still doing your quizzes. I hadn’t considered the time difference. Do you think it’s a cunning plan by the NZ team to catch you when you are nodding off ?
Interesting story about you local trees.
So what are you knitting this time. Please tell.
Mamissimo ah yes, the great British BBQ.
Can you tell us a bit more about your garden and what you are planning? Have you been working on it a long time?
Please let us know what time you are serving dinner so DH and I can arrive in plenty of time ?

Good afternoon ☺️

BradfordLass, thanks for the update on the trees. Being a cynic when it comes to these things I'm inclined to think the protection order won't work either, 'money doesn't talk but is swears and all that. I still think it's a brilliant development however, especially if it gets deserved publicity.

On environmental issues I don't know how far the news of the oil spill in the Loughor estuary in Carmarthenshire has travelled, you might have heard Panache. On 26th August a train derailed spilling ten wagons of oil, each one containing 75 tonnes! The oil has spilled into a special area of conservation, Penclawdd, (and beyond) in North Gower. The area is an important site for migratory wildfowl and an important site for mussels and cockles, which have a restricted permit on harvesting but livelihoods are dependent upon. There has been a race to clean up the area as much as possible but considering the size of the spill and the distance it has travelled it's really a case of waiting now for the oil to reach the surface of the sands. It's quite devastating. I know, by acquaintance, one or two of the conservationists so I'll keep track of what is happening, hopefully.

There was indeed a hidden meaning behind HR Puff and Stuff that I didn't understand until years later BradfordLass. It is probably that it was the reason why it was taken off air too. Apparently the title, and the ensuing fantasy, is a code for - hand rolled "spliffs" and the effects of cannabis! ?
Thanks for the link to Chigley, less controversial I think.

Grammaretto, that's priceless - we knew the answers when we were told them ?. It's a classic. We all know the answers if we're told them but I know what you mean! It can be quite frustrating.
Thanks for the link about the woodland, I'll read that after I've written this.

Ah, the great british BBQ Mamissimo, it's a given at some point ?. I'm sure you enjoyed it though.
It is a joy to plan and plant a garden from scratch, we can testify to that. You know how the saying goes though, it's never finished ?. It is immensely satisfying though and the fact that there's always something to do is one of the joys.

As usual its around lunch time and I come calling on my gangster friends.
Such a lot of interesting tales,you really have led colourful lives, although the one I can join in with is bulb planting!!!

In our last home there was a large lawned area to the fore of the terrace directly in front of our sitting room window.
It had two what is called Pembrokeshire hedging running up either side.............mainly natural and of a good age,mixed planting of specimens.
We decided it would be lovely to plant daffodil bulbs en masse..........in our eyes,a message of uplift and hope.............either side of the lawn, under these hedges.
It took numerous bags of mixed bulbs and every spring,how they had multiplied,there was a rush of swaying golden heads greeting us from that window
Truly beautiful,heart stopping
Sadly with my dear man`s health breaking down,at some point someone mowing our lawn strimmed this area very methodically,so together with the subsequent lack of care before leaving, how we missed our lovely daffs that last spring.
Hopefully they will have reappeared giving the new owners a nice surprise!
They bring such joy at a time when the weather can be cold,bleak and miserable,such a visible ray of hope.
Enjoy Mamissimo

Whilst obviously you can forgive your dear man any acts of spillage Doodle due to his tremors,my spilling only occurred because I was not careful enough!
How I felt your pain hearing about the calpol fiasco!!

By the way althoug Withybush woods may sound romantic and fairy like,sadly over many years of great neglect this place does not live up to its name.
Yes a favourite with the young kids at a nearby school whom plaster the tree trunks with fairy emblems and such like,overall it truly is a sad disgrace.
Those trees are ancient.and desreved of care, with very many of them being chopped down at various times,others have blown over (and left in that state)
It certainly needs management because it has the basis of a great amenity.The pathways are wide enough and safe enough for disability users, yet because the nettles,brambles etc almost taking over..... it really is no longer safe.
One walks through in peril, needing a machette..........well almost!!
The pond too needs much attention,it is big and holds such charm with the swans and ducks, but so badly needs cleared.
Of course one could blame covid...............but it was like this several years ago..........and probably very much longer sadly.

Sad to disappoint you Cherry and Norstat...........I truly do not like upsetting the lovely pictures you both held!
It could be such a wonderful amenity.............even in this sad state the car park outside was almost full,so it is still very much in use.

Thank you so much for the time and trouble looking up mobile hairdressers in our area Bradfordlass such kindness indeed.
Point is we do have a resident hairdresser here in this establishment,we have both used her but sadly she seems to have one style only!!!
Furthermore she is expensive!!!!!
Talk about trying to rob the vulnerable!
So it is our own fault if you like, choosing to step outside to what is a far better hair trimmer.............yes we both wore masks,we are hardly seen without them outside nowadays.
Obviously it has caused us stress and the dilemma of not being able to return.............and yes I had another nice compliment yesterday!

As you mentioned Mamissimo not only should full PPE be continued but a great idea to keep down this talking
The consequences are far too great not to listen .......and obey.
Life is certainly full of difficulties.
However I think it is this sort of complacency that will bring this country down on its knees again.So very sad.

The added strange thing is that this very salon owner is deeply worried that she may again become victim to a covid lockdown..............I really should have taken my chances and said "If salon owners and such do not adhere o the full covid safety rules then it is far more likely to happen"...............because of course it is up to each one of us to act responsably........and she obviously does not.

Indeed I am very aware of the unfortunate train accident that caused such great damage to the North Gower area Cherry by its diesel spillage.
Thesethings bring tears to your eyes when you witness first hand the suffering they can and do cause.
You will also surely remember the massive spillage over much of Pembrokeshire`s South/south/west coast endured when an Oil Tanker ran aground near Milford Haven...............it seemed the whole wide area of wild life,plus the tourism trade would be blighted forever.
We lived near the beach in Saundersfoot back then,a top resort in summertime, and I actually witnessed the first oil spillage as it came ashore there.
It was totally heart breaking witnessing the damaged birds and all manner of marine life.......as well as beautiful beaches covered in layers of thick black treacle.
Yet some 15/20 years later there remains no areas completely ruined.
Mother Nature has her way.....................but it certainly caused havoc.hard work and many sleepless nights in saving our lovely area.

Having now had my lunch,again working overtime and overstaying my welcome I fear!
Sending lots of blessings to my fellow gangsters and may I say what a great chatty bunch you really are!!
Do keep it up!!
Stay safe though!

Cherry I hadn’t heard about the oil spill in Carmarthenshire. How dreadful. I do hope they get it cleaned up. I hate seeing the birds and wildlife covered in oil. So distressing.
I vaguely remember HR puff and Stuff. Hand rolled spliffs, well I never knew that. It wasn’t until years later that I found out about Seaman Staines and Master Bates in Captain Pugwash either. I must be a total innocent. Mind you I did have my doubts about some of the characters in Magic Roundabout.
Far prefer the likes of Trumpton. Don’t tell me there’s sexual innuendo in that too please. ?
We are enjoying having a new garden planted here too. We just watch as new plants arrive and magically appear the next morning planted and watered. Oh the joy of having a gardener.
Your daffodils sounded lovely Panache. I hope they have made an appearance in your old home again. I love their little sunny faces.
It’s a shame about the woodland. We had an area similar to that near us with overgrown paths etc. The council decided to sell off some land for building on the condition the builders made a new parkland for the area. I wasn’t really keen on all the new housing but I have to say the builders have done a fantastic job of landscaping and have made a lovely area for walking. Lots of easily negotiable paths and new planting. Makes a pleasant walk for the local people.
Panache you will never overstay your welcome. We love to hear from you. Don’t ever think otherwise. ?

Good evening gang,
I had not heard if that oil spill. The news is selective as usual.
I wrote earlier but my post vanished!
A sunshiny day here . DS1 and DGS came out and were thrilled to find butterflies in the buddleia.
I think the total neglect in the garden has been enjoyed by the wildlife. A halfeaten apple dropped out of a willow tree this morning! Squirrels no doubt.
DGD fell off her bike yesterday and had her hand Xrayed. It wasn't broken but has an important looking support on it.
Night night everyone

A sign of the times that the news of the train derailment and subsequent oil spill hasn't made UK wide headlines Doodle and Grammaretto. Years ago something of such significance would have been mainstream news.

Panache Withybush woods was once one of those whose upkeep was partly taken care of by the Venture Rangers wasn't it? I'm talking 1970s. If not I've obviously got my woods muddled up ?. The disappearance of all these organisations and the lack of funding for conservation is a sorry state of affairs. These places are worth preserving and since the woods are clearly popular it makes sense doesn't it. I find it very sad.

Watched Strike earlier tonight but I haven't enjoyed this series as much as previous ones. It's been predictable in more ways than one. I'll still watch the last episode though, I've started so il finish.. ?

Off to get a lovely hot chocolate, with maybe a marshmallow or two or some sprinkles ?

Night all ?

I've so enjoyed reading all the recent posts. I told my DH about your comments about Captain Pugwash, Doodle. Pugwash and the Black Pig was a family favourite, DH frowned and said he didn't remember. As a family we still quote from 'Duckula' - does anyone remember that? 'You can't say "Tie him to the comfy sofa!"'

Yesterday, my DGD seemed pleased to see us (this feels like a real breakthrough). This lead to a happy and relaxed day for all of us. She didn't want me to read to/with her though, so my fairy story is still in it's envelope. My DS says he will read it with her when he can.

I am envious of all you gardeners. Our garden is a pleasant place to be in. I can't imagine not having the lovely outside space but I don't enjoy gardening and DH prefers to be in the garage. We have a few flower beds, it's not scruffy, DH mows the lawn and cuts the border hedges. We have quite a few trees, the fallen apple tree is still in place but that will go soon. Most of our plants are perennial and we have an occasional gardener that gives advice and tidies. Otherwise it mostly looks after itself.

I have my appointment with the dentist tomorrow! I don't know what the dentist will do but I hope that they do something.

Good night all.

Missedout good luck at the dentist. I saw today that ours are admitting only 1 patient at a time.

Doodle I was shocked at the Pugwash revelations; did they really use such names in a children's programme?

Mind you, for all my cheeky comments here, it's taken me 20+ years for the penny to drop about the name of a leading Auckland sex shop, 'Peaches & Cream.'

A very good day for me, although I didn't think it was going to be after yet another bad night.

Podiatrist at 10am, which meant going in the back door of the medical centre and after being admitted by security in full PPE, signing in.
Had my feet seen to by a girl in mask and gloves (only saw one person the whole day not wearing mask. We're an obedient lot in NZ it seems )

The St John Shuttle driver said, when he came to pick me up, 'Are you game for a tiki tour?'
I serpently was, so we picked up, then dropped off, 3 separate people - from their homes to hospital. That used up an interesting hour as we chatted and laughed through our masks.

When I finally got home I rang the swimming pool to see what rules they had in place and YIPEE! they are admitting people on Thursday.
Optional mask wearing in the pool itself but I can't imagine Covid is scared of water, so I'll be masked up as usual.

I am SO looking forward to it, my first swim since February. And I've booked in for next week as well.

I was trying to concentrate on the new course I'm doing about autism when I heard my name being called from outside (the door was open as usual).

I was hōhā (I don't like being interrupted when I'm working) but saw it was a friend with fresh vegetables so I decided to be grateful instead and subsequently, during her 90 minute visit, ate half a head of raw broccoli dipped in home-made hummus (not humus, in case you gardeners were thinking I'd gone completely barmy)

She is flying to Queenstown on Friday, courtesy of a rich boyfriend who's just entertained her on his yacht boat for the weekend. So she kept me smiling about their antics at sea.

If any of you remember my homecare lady, who had to leave when she was diagnosed with cancer and went on to suffer horribly during several session of chemo - at 3:30 she messaged me to say tests have shown she's cancer free.

This is particularly happy news as she has a 4 month old grand-daughter, her first, and is hoping to be granny-carer when baby's Mum goes back to school.
She's a lovely, ever-cheerful lady and I was so sad when she became ill.

It also saddens me to read about the oil spill in beautiful Wales and I hope the Loughor Estuary can be restored - is Puma Oil paying I wonder?

I'm about to email my old penfriend in Busan as it seems they've been hit by a typhoon. His wife is disabled and sick, so evacuation would be very difficult for her. Hoping for the best.

Have a very good day everyone

Lovely photo Grammaretto. Glad you got to see your DS and DGS yesterday. Thank goodness your DGD didn’t break her wrist. That wouldn’t have been a good start to the school year.?
Cherry hope you had a good night last night. DH slept reasonably well for a change.
I agree with you about preserving woods and trees. I can remember as a child being taken for a family picnic to Maidenhead Thicket. We had such fun there, playing hide and seek. Running down little pathways between the trees to see what was there. Beautiful memories.
Missedout I too, like you DH never knew about these names when watching Captain Pugwash. It wasn’t until years later I read about it somewhere. I was as surprised as your DH.
I am so happy for you that your DGD was pleased to see you yesterday. That is lovely. I’m sure she’ll really like your story when she realises you wrote it for her.
Living in a flat, our garden is a communal one. They are trying to improve it with new planting. It’s pleasant to look out on without having to do the work. Hope the visit to the dentist goes well.
Bradfordlass Yes I’m afraid they did use those names in Captain Pugwash and more like it.
We must all have been so unaware that we didn’t notice it at the time.
So you had a roundabout trip to the podiatrist. Nice to be out and about having someone to chat too I imagine.
So pleased you can go swimming again. That must be a big boost to the spirits.
My dyslexia took over for a moment when I read about you dipping your broccoli in hummus. I didn’t think you wrote humus I thought you wrote humans ?. That would have made you cannibalistic not barmy.
Nice to have a good catch up with your friend.
What lovely news about your previous homecare lady. Hope she can now enjoy plenty of lovely time with her DGD.
Hope your friend and his wife are ok. Good luck with the course.
I overslept (again) this morning so a bit of a panic to get ready before Sainsbury’s delivery. Hope all the gang ok. Back later.

`Morning to you all from West Wales.

Yesterday turned out to be a stunner weather ways,a real treat to be out and about.
However how fortunes change,this morning kicks of rather grey again,however the forecast for the rest of the week is promising.

You may be right about the old management of "Withybush Woods" Cherry,back a few years I was not that interested.However what a shame.This area and our other larger........and much used amenity area.....The racecourse,duly named that because yes,it once was a very well used race course.!! Both I believe have some covenanbt that stops them from being sold on,which is great news..........however of course both need much care and attention.
The Racecourse is in a fair condition and very much used for football,cricket etc and is a much favoured disability and dog walking paradise.
We used to enjoy walking all the way around which is about one and a third miles............many training for marathons use it.
We haven`t attempted a walk around since my man`s illness but it is on the cards!!
By the way do you remember me saying about my blog showing pictures and much chat about each area around our coastal path..........and how well it had been recieved?
On searching for same to try connect you, I was bitterly disappointed finding whilst the chat remains,together with an odd picture,most of them have been deleted..................i was gutted let me say.
It had taken hours of hard graft.

I know what you mean about being envious of these gardens Missedout, because although I have been a bit of a master gardener myself in the past! I now have to rely on others........and they are certainly not nearly devoted to the cause as I had been!!

It seems you are in for a real treat there Doodle and even better when the hard work is not down to you!!
A floral haven indeed!!
This place was once awash with florals,even having a small greenhouse and garden room..............with the residents getting older of course the interest dwindled.
The management on the otherhand are inclined to be mean!!

Oh! dearie me Grammeretto that was not a very great idea with your DGD falling off her bike,hopefully the impressive gadget on her hand will aid a quick healing.
These things are sent to try us,and they do!!

Another delightful time out spent yesterday.I coaxed my man into heading down to one of our much visited beaches......Broad Haven.
The skies were clear blue and sun beaming down.
It was truly very warm.
It was very much a chance visit knowing visitors are still staying on here,but we had no intention of being actually on the beach,or even walking across their prom...........always so busy.
Knowing the area well, we just parked on a hill at the back of the village,seats were overlooking a football pitch so we chose one with a sea view and simply sat............and drank in the beautiful scene.
The sun shone on the sea so it glittered like gold,on the horizon were one or two large ships,whilst the water`s edge and beach itself was a busy play ground for very many taking advantage of september sun.
We managed another decent walk but had to stop very often............and today my dear one is truly paying a rather high price for what turned out to be quite a busy week.
A day of rest is certainly on the cards.I have completed the ironing ..........so I shall be doing zilch too!
On Wednesday we have an appointment to go choosing our new specs frames..........so rest must be the order until then!!

Just been called to join my man as he watches "Bargain Hunt!"".........how the mighty have fallen............we have to find our enjoyment wherever we can!!!

So a hasty bye my gangster chums,keep smiling through and do keep safe!!!