The Lockdown Gang - Carry on Regardless.

A good morning cum afternoon to you all.

Wellness,happiness and peace............what a lovely sentiment Bradfordlass,but quite frankly it is just what I would expect from your kind and caring lips.......and heart.

After overnight rain we have another rather pleasant day,if the afternoon follows in the pattern of the morning, then I shall need a pair of skates!!!
The phones have been red hot,of course most coming whilst I was battling between shampooing,colouring and drying my mane!!
Not good timing.
After much hounding of a certain GP I now have the answers to my visits as far back as a month and fortnight ago..........following my visit to A & E with chest pains I need a further scan of one lung as yes,"something" has been noted on the upper lobe...........having had a mastectomy there I am not exactly pleased to say the least.........still will find out the truth soon.
Again another 2 "lumps" are being chased up by a usually slow dermatology clinic..........again with my long history involving these protuberances, I expect there will be further surgery.
It just goes on and on.
More pleasant was a call from our Shalom House,a Home Hospice service,Helen has taken us both under her caring wing and her calls and visits are most welcome.

Thank you Cherry and Doodle for your understanding and yes, it does help to "open up" when things reach that peak .......when everything seems to be falling apart!!

Indeed Cherry we were also surprised in learning the author of the Welsh code of practise for these Residential units actually opened this place.
It was the talk of the area at the time.........such a shame these things are then left to slide.
I could not agree more about the over use of plastic,but the way Tesco has interpreted this, makes my work almost impossable..whilst frankly there is little ..if any,actual saving.

We have 5 new residents so perhaps that may help change some of the dynamics of the place,there are far too many little cliques.
The new Autumn menu for one week has made an appearance....it looks very promising,but the "proof of the pudding" will be if it can be delivered and enjoyed!

We have to cope alongside our dear ones Doodle and I can quite understand that your man needs his extra sleeps,just like mine.Mine has to have certain cut off points and then thankfully, he manages mainly very well,but I think we all need to know those limits........and we all differ.
Oh! that I could be that wonder woman fleeing along our corridors!!! Mind you I certainly did well yesterday.............but paid heavily later on!
Seems you managed a rather lovely afternoon out on your River Cruise with the necessary Prosecco near at hand,though what a peaceful,pleasurable way to journey and enjoy nature in its raw state.
Delightful teas too,surely the right way to live!!!
I am sure you both felt the benefit,and another visit must be on your agenda before winter sets in.
You know your man well....yes indeed,I am sure the new printer will hold his attention for quite some time!!
Men and their toys eh!!

Am interested in hearing about this 6 monthly house inspection Bradfordlass,and hearing you had requested a Spring clean by a commercial company certainly had me sit up smartly.
I know our flat is not large and since Lockdown I have been the one flicking the dusters,but I know full well my limitations and down low,again up hig..... I simply cannot manage.............yet am not quite sure which way to turn...........before spiders and the rest make this their permanent home!!
I shall take up your hint about a disinfectant spray by the way........at the moment I seem to do everything the hardest way round.
You,my dear lady do not live life in the slow lane for sure!!

So what are your views re the "big changes".........which actually rather stunned us by being far meeker than expected,of course I suppose much depends on the compliance of those hit hardest.........and what happens if there is none.
Christmas I think is going to be a muted affair and quite frankly, it maybe a good thing if there is less hyp and expenditure.............just for once.

Hopefully those results will be good ones for your cousin Norstat......always a worrying period though.

We are about to head off to our nearest Garden Centre this afternoon,I am searching for some new indoor plants of different hues,hopefully to compliment our palm... Lord Howie.........a plant brought over from the Pacific islands and now growing at an alarming rate........soon going into the flat above!!!
Flowers just do not last here but these plants seem to enjoty the atmosphere, so mid week,fingers crossed the place should be on the quiet side...................if not we shall simply just enjoy a stroll by the river nearby.

So time to toddle off,wishing each one of you everything you may wish for yourselves,take great care as always.

Mamissimo you too have had an interesting life. The courage to same yes has brought you many surprises.
Not like me at all. I was a very shy child, not very courageous. I like what I am comfortable with. I’m not a Yes person, more of a maybe, I don’t know, or I’ll think about it sort of person.?
I am happy with my lot though. I married a lovely caring man and in the years since I finally got to grips with my claustrophobia we have travelled a fair bit and enjoy our life together.
Getting an article published at 16 is no mean feat and working for the BBC too sounds very interesting. Do you have a scientific or medical background?
Glad your treatment went well.
Your lunch yesterday sounds lovely and has just reminded me that there is something I always say Yes to......a nice glass (or two) of wine. Malbec is a favourite ?
Bradforlass love your cartoon ?
How rude of the lifeguard to laugh at you in the swimming pool. I’ll send Jeeves round to sort him out ?
I would have thought it was too difficult to swim in a mask. Is it required?
So the SA have finally turned up to see how you are. I hope you get your spring clean and your new curtains.
You’re not growing anything suspicious are you ?. ?
A day of cleaning for me today after our jolly yesterday. Hopefully if I get going now I can have some time to myself this afternoon to try out a new quilting idea I’ve been thinking about. Also going to try making some new face masks. If this lockdown is continuing we will need some. Must get on.
Hope everyone is ok. Have a good day all ?

Mamissimo Exactly! I've fallen into all those experiences by saying 'yes' .
The things I really wanted and deliberately planned for, such as a good education, eluded me on 4 separate occasions. C'est la vie.
You are a real heroine to fight for better conditions, especially in light of your own health challenges.

Doodle your tea cruise sounds absolutely gorgeous and you described it so beautifully. I was with you all the way: watching the children, nibbling the sandwiches, enjoying the sunshine..... Thankyou

Panache I too find I'm over-reacting and emotional in a way I never used to. I cry at the drop of a hat -yesterday, it was when a blackbird sang.

Remember that old song, 'Little things mean a lot'? Well, in my case, as I get older, little things mean a darned sight too much!

I wonder if a disinfectant spray would be easier for you to clean your groceries? The cans and items which wouldn't deteriorate if watered. I was gifted 15 litre of non-alcohol santiser and I used that in a spray bottle.

Nortsat Wishing you and your cousin good results. It's worrying waiting for tests to come back.

Ouch! Grammaretto both arms? If they start to ache, you'll have to get a straw and dip forward into your beverage like those little dipping birds.

Gosh Cherry don't wear a mask. I can't see anyone prosecuting you when they know the full circumstance of your health issues. Let them try and we'll march on parliament

When I was in the pool my mask got wet and I inadvertently sucked it against my face. Snatching it off caused me to sink so my first panicky breath was under water. The lifeguard at the side of the pool, laughed -cheeky beggar.

I had the Salvation Army's 6 monthly house inspection today. They come to make sure I'm not growing marijuana or running a tinny house They may consider renewing the 11 year old and considerably faded curtains.
And I've requested a Spring Clean by a commercial company, for the kitchen at least, as my homecare ladies are not allowed to do more than dust and wipe.
We'll see.

Wishing everyone wellness, happiness and peace.

I'm here to catch up with you all having been out to lunch - literally! We made the most of the last day of this lovely weather by having lunch --On the pavement--in the roped off bit outside the local Brasserie Blanc. The Malbec was a tad too beguiling so when we got home I blobbed in front of the telly and I've just woken up! Tonight will not go well.....

I've been reading the bucket lists with interest. Mine is simply to continue to say YES to as many opportunities as possible. That way life is full of surprises and twists. It's done me no harm at all to do this.

It's been core in my life since I was a curious child. Because I said yes I had my first work published in the New Scientist when I was 16, leading to working for the BBC on screen for a few years. I said yes to my husband, my house, to running my own business, to bring a mother, to changing career direction several times, to travelling all over the world....I did however say NO to bring overly restricted by my appalling health. I pay my luck and good fortune back by working with the government to improve treatment paths for patients with chronic conditions. Saying yes gives me my energy.

I still say yes to lots of things....particularly today to that nice Malbec!

And Grammaretto the treatment went well but I forgot to plant the bulbs....there's still tomorrow!

Slerp tight

Dear Panache please excuse me but I did have a bit of a giggle at the thought of you charging through doors and flying along corridors to get there in time to let your Tesco driver in. A bit like a slightly older Wonder Woman ?
I usually dump all the shopping in our hall and then tackle it bit at a time from there. It does take ages to sort out though.
Panache I echo entirely what Cherry says. Please feel you can always come on here and use us as a sounding board. I think you have explained the problem perfectly. With your DH being incapacitated you are looking after both him and yourself and don’t have anyone else to turn to for help and support. If coming on here and telling us about things helps in any way then I am glad. We are your little lockdown family group and even if all we can do is listen, we are happy to do that. You have nothing to apologise for at all.
It sounds as though many of the problems with your establishment happened when the council sold it to a private company. As it is sheltered housing I would have thought the council might have made some requirements of the new owners.
Sorry you have lost another friend and neighbour.
I hope you keep getting your daily dose of sun for a little while longer.
Grammaretto two for the price of one. How lucky are you ?. You are brave having them both on the same day. Hope your arms aren’t sore tonight,
It’s lovely your DGC are all reasonably close in age. I can just imagine your little one learning Highland dancing ?
I can remember taking my little GD to ballet when she was 3. In her little pink tutu with all the other tiny tots and the dance instructor trying to get them all to go the same direction ?
Cherry no nuts in the bedding. Jeeves won’t like it, ?
No it’s not just you Cherry whenever I have a ‘tidy’ I end up with bags and bags for the charity shops. Like you, I can’t imagine where it all comes from ?
DH wasn’t allowed to play with his new printer today as we were going on our boat trip. We had a lovely afternoon it was sunny and warm and we sat on the top deck with a glass of Prosecco as we slowly cruised up the river. It was lovely and peaceful. Passed people on the river bank having picnics and the children paddling in the water. We saw the schoolchildren out in the rowing boats having rowing lessons. Our afternoon tea was lovely, beautiful sandwiches, scones jam and cream, and a lovely selection of cakes. The crew were so nice and friendly. We really enjoyed it.
Tomorrow DH said it was likely to rain and he has decided we will have an at home day (no going out for a walk). I Have a feeling his decision to stay in has something to do with wanting to spend the day setting up his new printer ?
I didn’t want to ask you too much about you not breathing as I thought it might be a bit personal but now you’ve mentioned it I can understand how the mask can stop others seeing your lips turn blue. Please take care of yourself. We need our Tigger. ?
I hope the rest of the gangsters are ok. Early night for us I think. I will try and stay awake to finish my book. I am close to finding out ‘who dun it’ but I keep falling asleep ?
Sleep well all.

Evening fellow gangsters.

I woke up late again this morning . I'll be squirreling away nuts and other provisions at this rate in preparation for hibernation ?.
I have, however, got something done today but... it's not quite done . I finally started on decluttering and packing summer clothes away. I've now got bags of stuff to get rid of but nowhere to get rid of it to ?. By the time I've finished the room will be cluttered with black bags ?. Can anyone tell me where all this stuff comes from, or is it just me who accumulates ^stuff ? ?

I hope you enjoyed your afternoon tea on the boat Doodle ?. It sounds like the boat usually used for luxurious celebrations. I hope it's as nice as you thought it would be. I think the owners have come up with a good idea for afternoon tea, lunch etc. I hope it did stay dry. We had a small shower her earlier and the evening sky looks very threatening.
Is Mr D having fun with his new printer? That's a good idea to print out a large copy of your paint by numbers.
I well understand that Mr D needs a lie in on times. Good quality sleep is so important, having a disturbed sleeping pattern makes you feel drained.

A panic attack whilst wearing a mask doesn't sound good Nortsat. Since you are exempt are you sure you would rather wear one than not? It's difficult to know what to do for the best isn't it. I have worn one but that was before it was stressed to me that it's really not a good idea for me; I stop breathing during a bad seizure. It's better if my blue lips can be seen ?.

It's typical Panache, Tesco arriving early I mean. Typical too that they replace one type of plastic for another and the new type makes things harder to sort the shopping (especially at the moment) and put it away. I very much agree that we need to tackle the scourge of plastic bags but I don't think Tesco's solution is the right one. Hardly suitable for older or disabled people!
Never ever apologise for opening up to any of gang. I'm sure I speak for each one of us in saying that. I agree with you completely, having family to confide in, 'offload' on, seek advice and reassurance from is a boon of help even when no solutions to any particular problem are forthcoming. We may only be on screen but each one of us is here for you.
I'm almost staggered that the woman responsible for writing the Code is the very same woman that opened the establishment where you live. Almost staggered but not quite because clearly the private company that bought it are the ones contravening the Code!

Oh Nortsat I hope the results are good too xxxx

I've just been for my pneumonia jag and the nurse gave me one for shingles in my other arm. Aren't I lucky. And I get the flu jag next week.

.Your boat trip for tea sounds lovely Doodle although it's blowing a hoolie here so that would not be a good time to go boating.

Were you asking about my DGC? They are aged 14 down to 3. She's just turned 3 but when I asked her how old she was she said 4. This is no doubt because she has been told she can start a Highland dancing class with her big sister when she's 4. She's a bright wee button.

I am awaiting Nicola's pronouncement which is to happen at 8pm this evening when we will be told the extent of our lockdown.
I only hope that my in-law's carers can still come to look after them as they are finding life increasingly difficult and lonely.

Enjoy those parties when you still can NfkD and Mamissimo when is yours?

`Afternoon my gangster chums.
Again weather continuing to stay just fair although I rather think our lovely hour in the warm sunshine yesterday maybe our last this year...........we were lying back soaking up the peace and warmth,only to be disturbed by the early arrival of no other, but Tesco if you please!!!

With 2 floors and long corridors to "race through" to open our door and dash inside ready to press the right buttons allowing the delivery to reach our flat was quite some feat.
However I managed whilst (just!!)...... my dear man limped home a bit later!
Sadly no further deliveries in small plastic bags (of course we agree about this overuse of plastic) however in this instance I could have cried seeing our amount of shopping in huge plastic cartons.
It meant hauling them in along the floor,then having a laboriously slow system of picking them up,disinfecting and finding homes for one carton at a time.
I was literally bathed in perspiration as this took the best part of 2 hours...........thing is our kitchen cupboard space were not designed to store a few pandemic extras!!

Cherry I appreciate your concerns but we really need to get to some real home truths about this establishment,I cannot rest until I get to the bottom of certain areas.

First of all it was rather fascinating discovering the lady responsable for writing this Code of Practise for Wales was the same lady whom actually opened THIS establishment in 2010...........
Further to this being an Extra care Sheltered Housing along with its sister called DeClareCourt,(offering very many beneficial extras to normal Sheltered Housing, they were both first under the care of the council doing exactly what the name denotes.
Everything worked like clockwork we hear.
Then a few years later it was sold to a private company..........and from that day to this, came the changes and lowering of standards.
We the residents are roughly divided into about one third that pay our own way (as we do) the rest are funded by benefits etc.

I am not going to revisit this at length,but it has worried me about the way I react sometimes,so have given this much thought.
Over and over in my life I have proved extra strong in many very delicate circumstances,yet latterly I seem to well and truly "fall to pieces" initially.
What was pointed out to me ......and please tell me what you think.........in most cases people have the back up and support of family first and foremost,they are able to "offload",talk over worrying times etc...........I on the other hand have no one.
It is only since my beloved has been so badly incapacitated that I have what appears great panic attacks when faced with the greater problems.
Given a week or two to ponder deeply,iron out my hectic emotions...........and I am back on track again....slowly.
What I seem to be doing is coming in here firstly when I panic and think the bottom has fallen out of my world!!telling you all about it...............and it takes that week or two until I can again collect my own thoughts,settle back somewhat and move on.

If this is so please accept my humble apologies for opening up my heart .............whilst offering those of you with outsize understanding and caring hearts reaching out to me the greatest thank you from the deepest pit of my being.

It is again particularly sad on our corridor here,despite there being just 11 flats, we have now had 3 deaths here in just over the year......our latest death was a real lady,such a caring soul.

I think it time I delved deeply in the posts and carrying ons of my fellow gangsters, and my word some of you truly live life in a fast lane!
Thinking especially of you Bradfordlass.As usual you never fail to impress,having been there and done most things,you must have several cupboards filled with T shirts!!

Special thoughts with you Norstat,hope you are feeling better and all goes well for your cousin.

You truly are pushing the boat out Doodle ........in more ways than one,hope the trip proves a good one!
I was watching "Wisley Garden" the other day,remembering the many times you have enjoyed visiting,such a lovely place,mouth watering in fact.
Not nice are burglaries,like you we have never had one though sadly your family have..........it must be something very difficult to get over.

I rather think our daily strolls may well be in the minority too Grammaretto now the weather is being less inviting!
Perhaps you could tease your dear man ........offer him the one thing that may tempt him most......so as to get him out there walking!!
Somehow I don`t think you need persuading yourself!!

Mamissimo please do tell where you find all this energy,not only having your treatment then you add about the planting of a whole lot of spring bulbs, you truly make me feel pretty useless!!

Just before leaving a quickie hello to you NFK, and of course you too Missedout............I will get back to some proper posting soon,meanwhile my semi shielders all,with all these new rules about to arrive on our doorsteps,I wish you all well,enjoy your whatsoevers,keep smiling and most of all do keep safe!

Nortsat just picked up on GM thread that your cousin is having a brain scan today. I do hope all goes well and the results are good news.

Nortsat sorry you’ve not been too good. Glad you are feeling better today and sitting comfortably with your coffee ?
Yes looking forward to our afternoon tea trip. It is on a large boat (plenty of space for social distancing) that usually only does large parties at quite a high price. We have often seen it and wondered what it was like inside but it cost too much to go on (as you had to book the whole boat!). Due to the lockdown their trade has ceased so they have come up with the idea of using it for lunch and tea parties for individuals.
So you and Cherry are both medically excused from wearing a mask. That must be difficult if people don’t know they might just think you’re avoiding the rules.
I hope you enjoyed your lunch out. The masks do make you hot. Panic attacks are not good (I have had many due to claustrophobia) always leave me shaky and out of sorts.
I second your desire to learn more about Bradfordlass’s list of achievements, like the work with the British Army or the sketches on TV.
You are right about getting a diagnosis for autism it is a hard road. I hope your friend’s daughter has the strength to battle on.
DH is very excited. His new printer has just arrived. I am quite excited too as I’m hoping he will print out a big copy of my painting by numbers to help me see what goes where ?
Have a good day all. Back later to check up on you.

Good morning gangsters, I have my coffee and am sitting comfortably (thank you Doodle).
I have had a couple of rough days, but am feeling much brighter today.

Missedout I so agree, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the current situation. I think shielding is likely to be reintroduced. Missing the family must be universal now ... but it doesn’t get any easier. ? for you ... and delighted to hear your son is moving forward positively.
Gosh Panache an 11 foot shark, 35 miles off Milford Haven ... that must have been quite a sight.
How is your spreading of wild oats going? ... it sounds like a good plan.
Oh Mammissimo, no Potfest? I was waiting for the photos. I hope all went well with your treatment yesterday. ?
Doodle, now that we’ve all seen your red, strapless, sequinned number ... you’ll have to wear a real corker for the fondue party. Start checking that wardrobe, woman!
We look forward to hearing about your afternoon tea on the river... what gracious living.
Cherry, hope you had a decent night. Thank you for the heads up about the documentary White Riot. That could be a good present for my partner’s Chr***mas list.
I have been wearing a mask, though I am medically excused. We had lunch out last week - first time and it was lovely. However, whilst I was waiting for my partner to bring the car round to the front of the pub, the wretched mask nearly gave me a panic attack! Life feels like a complex landscape to navigate at the moment.
Grammaretto, so glad that it’s now cats appearing in your garden... yes it is a good sign. I think even the smell of cats can keep unwelcome visitors away.
I hope your DD and her family are getting over the loss of their possessions. You must be ‘heart sick’ for her.
Bradfordlass, it was fascinating to read about some of your achievements. There must be interesting stories attached to all of them. I, for one, would love to hear more.
Regarding the autistic spectrum, when I trained as a Children & Families social worker, in 1992, understanding of autism was still very sketchy. So if Universities/academics knowledge and awareness was weak, parents and children were left in the dark. Indeed I think it can still be a challenge - I have an old school friend, whose daughter is struggling now, to get a thorough diagnosis for her son.
Nfkdumpling, all those family birthdays, how lovely. Yes, let’s seize the day, before more shielding looms on the horizon.

Have a good day gangsters. ?

Cherry I’m glad you had a good long sleep. Sometimes our bodies need to have a catch up. I usually let DH have a long lie in once or twice a week. His nights are so disturbed he needs some extra hours sometimes.
I am in awe of how you cope with your epilepsy. You make so little fuss about it. That’s a bit of a problem with the mask issue. Please keep yourself safe.
Yes my DIL was upset to lose the necklace her father gave her. They still live in the same house but they had all the windows replaced and my son installed a really good alarm system.
I am going on a boat trip tomorrow. Afternoon tea on the river. Hope it stays dry, I don’t want soggy sandwiches ?

Noswaith dda ?

I slept for Wales last night Doodle ?. Woke up very late this morning. It was lunchtime before I knew it ?. We didn't make it to the supermarket until 2pm. I was a bit nervous going at that time of day but we needed basics like bread that we only buy from Sainsbury's. I needn't have worried really, it was very quiet. We felt quite relaxed, I think the fact that everyone has to wear a face covering helped. Though... I've actually been told it's not safe for me to wear one since I can stop breathing during a seizure.

Missedout it's good to know that your DS is making plans for the future, that there is improvement in the quality of his life (even if covid-19 is trying to scupper so much). I hope you do get the opportunity to see him this week.

It's a case that the autistic spectrum was ill understood, and not that long back either BradfordLass. Publications were few and far between and advice, let's face it, didn't really exist. How could you know and understand a condition that hadn't really been studied and explored properly medical professionals. How could anyone with a child on the spectrum? You live, you learn, you meet the challenges, you adapt.
Rather than having a bucket list I think what you have done is achieve many of your ambitions and live a full and interesting life BradfordLass. I think your list, bucket or not, 'ticks' happy fulfilments on life's journey.
I'm in awe at the fact that you have swam a marathon, that's an incredible feat. Diving at Goat Island must have been amazing. I like swimming but am a very poor swimmer. I very much admire the fact that you got someone out of a refugee camp, you can't really plan for that can you even doing so by intent doesn't always achieve such a thing.
I pleased you made it back to New Zealand ?

That's a lovely list of yours Doodle, seriously it's very heartwarming ?. I love the professional way you have laid it out too!
Sorry to hear that both your sons have been experienced burglaries. It must have been upsetting for your DIL to have jewellery her father bought her stolen as I'm sure that would hold some sentiment. It's the loss of sentimental 'stuff' that's harder to lose. Feeling safe or unsafe, that's another matter, of course if you are renting privately then that's not so difficult to do something about.

I hope your back is okay now Grammaretto ?. The main reason I queried about the clay was because if it can block a drain then there are environmental implications and disposal via ordinary waste collection wouldn't be allowed, would it ?. It's clearly not doing any harm on a rough patch at the back of your house ?.

I hope that ARHM Code is useful Panache, I really do ? I hope it doesn't mean you are taking on too much with it all though, I'd hate to think of you doing anything that will add to your stresses.
It's good to know that you are still getting your morning stroll. Hope you were able to sit out in the sunshine. Glad to hear that Mr P's latest chemo session was easier for him.

Getting a cuppa now...

Panache glad you enjoyed yourselves at Mamissimo’s BBQ. Good companionship is a wonderful thing.
You can dash in and out as much as you like. We just love to hear from you.
Hope you enjoyed your stroll and your rest this afternoon.
Your mention of the shark made me quite glad I don’t go swimming in the sea ?. It does look like further lockdowns may be in place but we have survived before and will do so again. Good luck with spreading your oats. Hope you have a bountiful harvest. ?
Grammaretto it will be a shame if you don’t get to potfest. The name still makes me giggle. We haven’t been burgled either. I hope we never are. It’s a horrible thing.
I didn’t know you had 7 DGC. That’s a lot of birthdays to keep track of. How old are your oldest and youngest if you don’t mind me asking.
Jeeves, after his day lounging in the sunshine, is firing on all cylinders tonight, he is ready with hot chocolate. Alcoholic and non alcoholic cocktails, Danish pastries, ice creams. Whatever you want.
NFK we had a lovely time. Sorry you missed it. Hope you can make it to the fondue night for Mamissimo’s 65th. That sounds like fun.
A helicopter ride and white water rafting my goodness that sounds very exciting. I expect our helter skelter is a bit tame by comparison ?
Have a peaceful evening all ?

Evening All

Sorry, I should have sent my apologies for not being able to make the party. It sounds as if I missed a really good Do. Helicopters an' all! I've only been in one once and DH hogged the front seat - but it was up a canyon in Queenstown before white water rafting back down it again! I kid you not - we really did! What things we did in our Yoofs.

The weekend clashed with not one but two family birthdays. Saturday was my DGD2's and today was my DDiL's. Because of this only six meeting rule it all got very complicated. We nearly ended up with time slots! But it worked!

Its DGS's birthday next weekend so the whole game starts again!

Will catch up again later - Panorama tonight looks interesting and if I record it it'll vanish in the heap I have to catch up on!

How did your treatment go Mamissimo? I hope you got on alright and planted the crocus bulbs.

I think with the new lockdown rules which will be announced here tomorrow, I won't be going anywhere at the weekend. It's Potfest and I had volunteered to help.

Hey well we are used to this in here aren't we. sigh.
You are good you Panaches to keep getting out for your walk. I can't persuade MrG to walk at all.
How interesting about the shark! Why would it be caught?

I love your list of achievements Doodle

I am sorry to hear about burglaries too. Touch wood, we have escaped ourselves apart from some things lifted from the garden. An extension lead, left out and a rope swing!

My Dsis was burgled when they lived in London and they left that flat soon after, as they were never comfortable again.

Your achievements are fabulous Bradfordlass they really are.
It's interesting to make a list and reflect isn't it.
DH and I are so proud of our 7 DGC and our DC ofcourse, though there were times when they were growing up that I felt a failure. Teenagers were not easy.

Time for a G&T methinks. Jeeves! can you oblige please.

`Afrenoon my gangster chums............talk about it being the morning afer,in our case it is the morning after the morning after....................if you catch my drift!!!

My dear man has only talked of the warm welcome recieved by the Mamissio`s and you lot,their garden has truly impressed and is being repeatedly discussed, as well as the goodness of Jeeves when he had a few issues with getting into and out of the helicopter!!
Even his latest chemo session was a lesser evil!

It has certainly uplifted me and got me thinking and even planning,whilst forgive me for simply dashing in and then dashing out but there are quite a few things going on here...........having taken your advice on board Cherry regarding the ARHM Code of Practise for Wales.

The weather is glorious and despite extreme tiredness our morning stroll has been a joy and I am now preparing for our afternoon small sit out session in the sun.We have to make the most of what is left of summer! as I believe there will be changes as from tomorrow..........the Equinox, which always was the point that sent us packing up from our long term summer caravan holidays!!

A Tesco delivery this afternoon should keep me busy for a while.

Just one note of interest,our local fishermen have recently caught a 11 foot shark just some 35 miles off Milford Haven......that will have been quite a feat.

Hoping to be fully operational soon, as you all move in such fast circles you keep leaving me standing............mouth well open!!
With you all in my heart and I wish you well in your deeds of the day.
Keep Safe.............as it appears this Virus threat and the Government reaction to it growing at this fast pace means further restrictions in the offing........???????
I am going to spread wild oats whilst I still can!!

Morning all.
Cherry I hope you slept well. DH had a good night last night for a change. Mind you we didn’t go to bed till 2.30 as he was trying to organise some photos to send off for printing.
Sorry that you had things stolen in a burglary. It’s horrid isn’t it. My son and DIL were burgled and they had jewellery stolen including a necklace which her late father had bought for my DIL. It took them a long time to get over the fact that someone had been in this house. My other son was burgled too at night when they were asleep. The thieves stole DS’s laptop and their car. Fortunately they got the car back with little damage.
Bradfordlass ah if only we had the benefit of hindsight how different our lives would be. I’m sure you did the best for your son. Autism affects so many in different ways. The saddest thing is that it makes it difficult for so many with friendships and relationships.

Yes I’m looking forward to the fondue party too. I may wear something less formal this time. Fondue reminds me of the 60s. I may wear my hippy long dress and a floppy hat.

Bradfordlass you could never alienate us we are your friends. I have just read your list of things you have done in your life. What a life you’ve had. I know you’re a writer and had written some books but I didn’t know about the poems. I’m not surprised you’ve had stories read on the BBC, you are such an interesting writer.

I will now give you my comparative list for a bit of a giggle
Writing: Story about the Titanic published in school magazine.
Art: Lino cut of a jam jar with two paint brushes featured in same magazine
Mountains: Been to the top of the Jungfrau (by train) and from there trekked to the Monch (took us 2 hours each way) not bad for two elderly asthmatics ?
Cruise: Done a few of those
Swimming: Doggy paddle for a width or two.
Aurora: YES third time lucky we saw the aurora borealis.
Lover: I too have lived with my lover and painted (by numbers, quite recently) ?
Skills: my quilting, I’m not bad at that. ?
As you say, most if it is life. Like you, being a loving mum and grandma is number 1.
Seriously though, that is an amazing list. You have certainly had a full life.
I am so glad you got your wish to be back in NZ. You so obviously love it there so much.
Grammaretto it is an interesting thread indeed. The various twists and turns. Nice to get to learn new things too.
Like you I have no burning ambitions. I am quite happy with my lot. There are places I would like to visit that I haven’t done so yet. The virus stooped our travelling.
Your drain cleaning seemed to be a job well done.
What’s the next thing to be .....potted, cast, thrown...sorry what’s the correct word?
Hope you have a nice visitor arriving in the car.
Have a good day all. Kia pai to ra Bradfordlass ?

What a lot of interesting reading there is on this thread! It's quite a web. You can be taken along one route and find yourself on quite another. Very Alice in Wonderland.

Bucket lists: I discovered these only recently and . I didn't know where the notion had begun. See Naples and die? is an ancient saying. As in - if you've seen Naples you have seen everything.

I have no burning ambitions. Am I odd? probably

I am very glad that your son is improving/happier Missedout

I am of the no use crying over spilt milk mentality regarding the DD fire. They are simply very glad that no-one was hurt. That was the first thing she said btw. We are safe.

The drain clearing was extremely satisfying Cherry though my back was aching last night. When the gush of water finally came though, my friend's face was a picture of joy! we got a picture. The clay mountain has gone on a bit of rough ground at the back of the house. It's just clay so cannot do any harm. It's more piles than mountain.

I've just heard a car arrive. Better get on with the day. See you all later.

Grammaretto I'm still heartsick for your DD and when I heard Marian Keyes talking this week, I agreed. 'Don't shrug aside your disasters and try to find a redeeming feature - rage!'


Missedout high hopes for your dear son. As Doodle says, however old they get, we still hurt for them.

I relate so much to that. I've recently been researching autism and learning it has a thin end of the spectrum where the effects may be slight but still a challenge - and to my shock (and huge guilt) recognised many of the pointers in my 50 year old son's past behaviours.
How very different his life could have been if, as he grew, I'd known and understood what he was going through.

Missedout A fondue party? I look forward to that and of course Doodle you'll wear your best red Leicester cheescloth dress.

Cherry I never made an actual bucket list (and haven't seen the film) but I had three big ambitions growing up: to live on a farm; to have children and most of all, to get away from the mucky back streets of Bradford.

I've managed all three.
When I first read about bucket lists, most of the ambitions, such as Visit Las Vegas; Achieve My Ideal Weight; Meet a Celebrity were things I shuddered at, though I have met and spoken with several celebritites, politicians and royalty.

But as I read more sensible lists, I realised I'd done so many things others only dream of, especially as a writer.
So at the risk of alienating everyone with my arrogance, here goes.
I've had books, poems and articles published, stories read on the BBC; sketches on TV; my own column in a glossy magazine. I've saved 2 lives; changed the destinies of others; got someone out of a refugee camp; swum with dolphins; seen the Aurora Australis; learned a language; perfected many skills; worked with the British Army ; climbed a mountain or four; dived at the Goat Island Marine Reserve; swum a marathon; had my art works in galleries; been on a cruise and road trips; lived and painted in Paris with a lover...... and much, much more - but really, most of this was just life and not planned, as is implied by 'bucket list'.

Being a loving Mum has always been No.1

Cherry my Mum, who never wanted children, was the exact opposite of yours. I was determined my children would always know they were loved and of course I've often fallen short but my boys are happy, healthy and have good jobs they enjoy, so they've survived my mistakes

Getting back to New Zealand; which I love with a passion; was my desperate ambition when, for a few years, I was trapped and pining in Bradford again.
Achieving that has filled me with relief and a joy I'll never lose.
Some people have 'Visit New Zealand' on their bucket list.
I live that dream every day and believe me, I appreciate every single moment.

Just a quick post from me, I feel quite tired and will be giving it ? before long I think.

Maybe it's the thought of your chain gang activities today Grammaretto. It sounds like it was quite some job! Well done ?. What will you do with all that clay, it'll have to be disposed of carefully won't it ?. I know nothing about these things.
Glad the rat ? had gone!
I feel so sad for your DD and SiL. Not the same thing but when we had our belongings stolen it was hard to start again. Living in a private rental, short term let, we had no insurance. Have they lost absolutely everything?

Missedout, that's the devil that has come with this virus, missing being with the ones you love, the presence. They are still there but feel somewhat intangible. All I can say there is love itself is intangible but it never leaves. You love them, they love you, that is always there. This weird time we are living through will pass.

Thank you for the lovely day yesterday Mamissimo. Ooh another invite - for your 65th birthday no less. Fondue you say, very retro, count me in ?
I hope your treatment goes well tomorrow.

Doodle, whatever you wear you'll look resplendent I'm sure ?.

Oh, Nortsat have you heard that White Riot the documentary about Rock against Racism came out in the cinemas today? We were only chatting about it a few weeks ago. I don't think I've got the courage to venture to the cinema but I'm sure it'll be on release to buy before Christmas (oops, C word alert).

Off up the wooden stairs for me, night all ?

Grammaretto it was a lovely day indeed. I hope you took some goodies home for Mr G. We wouldn’t have wanted him to be left out.
So you’ve been practicing being dyno rod today. Glad you’ve got your drain flowing again.
That’s a real shame about your DDs belongings. Did they lose much in the fire? You would have thought the owner would have mentioned the contents weren’t insured.
Missedout you were missed. ? if visions of the Full Monty flashed through your mind I’m not surprised you broke your string of pearls. Come on, be honest, you were so overwhelmed at the thought of your own private performance that you swooned. ?
That is such good news about your DS. You must be pleased to think he’s getting stronger. Doesn’t matter how old they are, we still worry about them. Hope things pick up for him soon.
Jeeves was on his best behaviour last nigh. He was making sure Mr P was well looked after as well as going round pumping up cushions and rubbing sore backs. I have given him the day off today as he worked so hard last night. He is in the garden snoring on a lounger.
Mamissimo we had such a lovely time. What a lovely garden you have. We all had such fun.
I think you’re right. We may well be under lockdown again.
Hope you enjoy your lunches.
A fondue party for your 65th sounds great. You can count me in. Now what shall I wear ......?

Morning all....I've just about got my head above the parapet now. Jeeves was a super help with the washing up but he put everything away in strange places. Mr M was most impressed by the music and said the Gran in the red dress certainly knew her stuff. High praise indeed.

I have my treatment tomorrow and when I get back I'll have to buckle down and plant some more crocus bulbs before the weather gets colder at the end of the week.

Somehow we have managed to book three lunches out this week so it's going to be a busy one. I have a distinct feeling that Boris will be taking away the keys again soon so perhaps it's a good thing that we're seeing some old friends while we can.

I'm a tiny bit tired tonight so it's early doors for me....thank you all for coming. Shall we have a fondue party to celebrate my 65th? We've got a few weeks to get our livers in peek condition...

Sleep tight

Hi, I'm sliding in very sheepishly. You sound as if you all had a wonderful time yesterday. At the last minute, I thought I would join you and put on my glad rags and came along. However, I didn't really check the party venue properly. When I arrived at what I thought was the Mamissimos', I sneaked a look over the wall into the garden and saw a man wearing just a leather apron in the process of lighting BBQ briquettes! Hmmmh.... then I took a deep breath, rounded the corner and there was a whole team of fire fighters waiting around outside a gate. Visions of the film "The Full Monty" flashed through my mind (yes, I know they were steel workers in the film), perhaps I'd come to a hen night by mistake. I clutched my pearls in anguish and the string broke. Now on my hands and knees, feeling around in semi darkness for missing baubles, a helicopter flew low over me with a spot light shining underneath. I'm sure passengers must have seen me crawling around in the undergrowth and assumed I was some sort of voyeur! At that point, I lost my nerve completely and made a bolt for home. I only have myself to blame. Mamissimo and gangsters I'm very sorry I didn't take part in your BBQ. Mamissimo, if you check around your garden back wall, you may find a few loose pearls and a big bag of marshmallows that I brought (for toasting over the fire) and then dropped in my haste to leave. I hope they aren't too soggy now.

I wish I hadn't missed the music too and Doodle's orchestral debut with Norstat's partner.

Apart from failing miserably as a guest, I haven't been doing much. I find that this current covid phase is worse than the original lockdown. As long as I keep my routines, watch escapist entertainment and keep my mind active with puzzles, crosswords and my IT interests, I'm fine but as soon as I start thinking about my little families and how much I miss them, I have a wobble even though they are all OK.

Mamissimo, I love the photo of you with your little one, I'm so envious.

Cherry, I hope you were sitting comfortably last night and that your back improves.

Grammaretto, such a shame about the bothy, at least your DD is spared the cost of new bikes.

DH is not only working on the car but also sorting out the new shed, which, he tells me, is actually a cabin! The 'cabin' now has shelves, a work top and electricity. I think my DH could generate his own electricity - I don't really feed him, it is more a matter of refuelling! We also have a smart new area of patio which we are getting used to but the fallen apple tree remains until the tree surgeon can fit us in.

This week, we are hoping to spend some time with one of our DS who has taken some time off work after studying for recent exams. As I have said before, DS has had some serious problems but, despite the covid restrictions severely limiting opportunities for making friends and rebuilding his life, seems to be getting stronger and is actually making plans for the future. I don't ask for more than that.... a very good reason to be cheerful.

I'm glad Jeeves is OK, I had to hide the 'good stuff' while he was 'helping' us on the boat, so I did wonder how he fared last night!

Hello lovely gangsters,

I feel fine today despite overeating and drinking. Wasn't that a super day/evening/night and the rain stayed off.
I'm sure there were beans in the burgers.

I hope you got home OK Bradfordlass? Your singing was beautiful.
The helicopter drop was amazing. I would not like to try that.You are one brave lady!

I also hope Jeeves did the washing up? I had to get back. DH is sorry he missed it but with the shielding and all, he couldn't come. Next time?

I have been part of a chain gang drain clearance today and we did it. The pottery drain is at last flowing free. We cleared enough clay from the filters/traps to build a small house.
No more rodents seen but 2 cats so I think that's a good sign. I have been advised what to do about the creature I saw yesterday. It involves the council whose rubbish is piled next door so it probably is implicated.

I discovered the bothy which burned down was insured by the owners but not the contents so it was up to DD & SiL to insure their own stuff but they didn't. They will in future. He was wearing his only pair of boots . Everything else was burned. Not the children's bikes though as they were left outside.
Enjoy the rest of the day folks.