Lyke's Blog

Great News, stupendous News!

2009-04-09T03:07:00.000-07:00

Not only stupendous, but fantastic, amazing and it all gives me cold feet and the collywobbles.

Last week my Mesh (PC) to you guys died no, went all queer on me! I had been having troubles with it, the mouse would freeze, or suddenly in the midst of working on something it would blank out and restart Windows again, a nuisance that let me tell you all. You should have heard the blue language. I spoke sternly at it, but to no avail suddenly when Windows started up there were a plethora of red lines right across the monitor, and that was IT. Next day I took it to my friend Igor the PC Dr. and he was having a look at it. And He found that although the hard drive was okay the motherboard had died. As I had been wanting to go over to Apple Mac like the rest of the family, although I had thought to wait till later in the year when the new Leopard: Snow Leopard had come out, I decided to change over there and then, took the bull by the horns, booked my a personal shopper and had Dave show me what is what in the Mac world. There just has been brought out a new i.Mac and I did a lot of research; originally thought I would go for the 24 inch, the bigger the better I thought; but Dave suggested the 2" easier on the eyes he said. He did suggest I upgraded to 4Gb memory and a 640 hard drive, stating that I would have more than enough.

I also added Aperture 2 and FileMaker to it as well as ordering a new HP printer: the HP C8180 which is a scanner, printer, fax, copier and has Lightscribe facility (this allows to print pictures/or label straight on the DVD) something I have wanted for a long time. Those of you who have had my holiday movie DVD would know why. I put this order in almost immediately and awaited the delivery notice, it would take a week or so although that would mean the delivery would occur. Sooner than that I got a delivery during the 4 days we were away. Luckily I scanned the invoice and found to my horror that they had put in an Epson printer almost the same as the HP only no Lightscribe facility. I phoned immediately and pointed this out and they couldn't have been more helpful. They ordered the HP and told me that they would arrange for the Epson printer to be collected and refund me. And then on Monday 20th when I was away all day with the 'In Stitchers' for our AGM and they to deliver 20 cushions we had made for Horton House a special charity for returned wounded veterans. Little did I know that I was also getting a delivery of my own.

Upon my return John told me that the hallway was full of packages, and it certainly was: the i.Mac and TWO printers; they managed to get the HP to me as well. Oh joy oh bliss.

I shoved everything into my work room; drew the curtains and blinds so no one could look in, imagine a break-in at this time, not to be thought of. So I am one happy bunny but also rather scared. So guess what I am doing this weekend. I am also planning to clear out a lot of extraneous stuff to make the workroom a bit more user friendly, so I will be busy for now on! Bookshelves will be seen too, as well as other brickabrac.

That's it folks from your froggy friend

Latest Update

2009-03-25T04:03:00.000-07:00

Just a quickie about my sisters Maryse & Jolijn's 75th birthday celebration. We, that is John and myself together with the Jellies had been invited for their special birthday dinner party on the 21st, although their actual birthday was on the 20th which they celebrated just among themselves in the company of company of David and Didi (Jolijn's only son) who came over with her from Holland on the 19th. Misa's son Martijn also the eldest, arrived on Saturday for lunch just as we did. We arrived nice and early having left home at 9 am and this time we didn't go via Stonehenge!!!

For their special birthday I had made each of them a sampler, something I love to do unfortunately this is the only picture I have of them, Misa's somehow got lost somewhere but it is just the same only with Maryse on it, and her roses are yellow. Got tired of doing the second lot with the pink.

as you can see it was a beautiful warm spring day, with lots of flowers everywhere. Misa's new fountain was running. this was a present of her children. A lovely lunch outside, and then afterwards we sat about either having a rest, chatting and getting ready for the evening do. There were 1 of us, luckily at two tables in a delightful hotel in Coleford, near where Maryse lives. Wonderful food and wine, company was enjoyed by all. The others being David's son and daughter-in-law and one of his daughter's and son-in-law. They both live not to far away. Maryse wanted us to meet David's children and Didi and Martijn and us two were from her side of the family. We stayed at the Cottage, she seems to have place for us all, although Martijn stayed at David's as he didn't want to share a bunk bed with Didi; they both being rather large chaps.

We all met up for a brunch at 10 am and then we all dispersed around 11.30, Didi going back to Holland via Bristol, Martijn to his home in Cambridgeshire and we home to Godalming via Christina's home in Long Compton so that we could see her, and pick up the marmalade she makes for John each year.We were quite tired as we came home a little late having to battle with the heavy traffic.

But on Monday eve we tootled off to St.Albans to see Caitlin perform in Much Ado About Nothing. She was playing Beatrice of of the leading parts, and very good she was indeed. It was a great performance these youngsters put on, and Caitlin was by far the best. (Not Oma-speak this but it is so) The stage setting was very imaginative with a huge circular cloth representing the forest and various cushions as well as a couple of stools which had the habit of emitting a loud crack when the person on it stood up. Also Beatrice got stuck under the circular forest. Due to the fact that the audience was meant to have gone out in the interval so she could emerge, and of course we didn't. But non the less it was great performance even though the actors spoke at a cracking speed which caused the play to end rather earlier than expected. It appeared also that some of them skipped a couple of pages which caused Beatrice to sprint across the stage in various directions. Shaun comment: "didn't know Caitlin could run that fast!" The proud Dad before the performance and unfortunately one of the few better pix.

Here is Caitlin in full make up afterwards at home. Not in her stage clothes, they were mostly dressed in modern costumes but that worked very well. The 'men' were splendid in beards and moustached but we were not allowed to take photos during the performance so I only have this one:

Thats it for now folks, till the next time.

About time too; Spring has sprung at last!

2009-03-14T08:13:00.000-07:00

Its been an age since I last posted a post. Life is just too short, or rather the days haven't enough hours I could do with more than 24. As you can all imagine I have been very busy the last weeks; what with my Mac training once a week which entails going up to London for the day. I thoroughly enjoy these sessions and have learnt a tremendous amount. Did iMovie and iDVD which was extremely useful for getting my summer movies edited as well as doing iPhoto for the photos. As you all know I turned these into album books as my Christmas presents for the family. All except for Louise as I am still working on that one. Her movies have to be burnt in the American video mode for viewing. Not Pal but the other one NTSC. Meanwhile Apple Mac have brought out a new version of iLife09 which has many more features and makes the editing especially in iMovie much better and easier. Just in time for the movies of the Demetres, and once I have finished these it will all go off as an Easter present.

The other thing I have to report is the visit the St. Albanites made to Peperharow Road on the Wednesday of their half term in February. Caitlin and Fiona were off to view Farnham Art School in view of the photography course that Caitlin might want to pursue. Its is still one of the best in the country as it was all those years ago when when Micko went there in the '70s. Of course it is still early times and things or her mind may change somewhat by the time she is 18. But she is growing up fast; and so is Shaun. He stayed with us while the others went to Farnham and went with us on a Jellies' walk. It was a new one for him. John had to go to the bank in Godalming and Shaun and I mooched about there after having gone to Waitrose to get some things for our supper/tea which we all had before they went home again

here he is disguised as a sheik

The bank took longer than planned so Shaun and I lurked in the Bay tree Cafe and had a drink and played with my new mobile phone. he was much better at using it than I am and was able to give me quite a few tips!! oh to be a member of today's youth.

Once home we all had our meal which was enjoyed by all of us. And all too soon it was time for them to be homeward bound. But not before Caitlin invited us to come and see her play Beatrice in Much to Do About Nothing on the 23rd of March. Will report back on that after that date, we are definitely going!!!

Meanwhile spring has definitely sprung there are daffodils out in our garden and polyanthus as well as out in the surrounding; tulips appearing every where in my pots or surprisingly elsewhere in the garden; but not in flower yet. It is also warmer when it isn't overcast or raining. We've had quite a harsh winter but hopefully that is now a distant memory

Thats it folks till next time (but don't hold you breath it may be a while) the Jellies send greeting too.

Present from Russia!!!

2009-02-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

Back of Copse Edge 02/02/

Last night when we went to bed the snow started to fall, we had been warned of the dire weather coming, and boy did it come. This morning we woke to a white world, everything covered the at least 2 ft of snow, and it was still snowing heavily. John got up at 6.19 and started dressing. He was going out to clear the drive. Of course then it was panic stations as he couldn't find his wellies. Well considering he hadn't worn them in a couple of years, they weren't where they should have been. For one horrible moment I thought I might have thrown them out, but then remembered where they were. Thanks to the ginkho biloba I take every day. It was stunning and beautiful, so silent and so white; and not at all cold.

by the side door, this is what we saw!
The Jellies at first didn't care for this at all and refused to go out so we all had breakfast and got on with our chores; John to feed the birds; who soon cottoned on they must have been hungry and me to my work room which was in a most terrible mess. On Saturday I had a plumber (Darren) come to desludge my radiators in flat 1. For several days during the last weeks the boiler had conked out so that I had to have the British Gas engineers around several times. They are very good and come almost immediately, but to no avail: neither of them could find what was wrong, they said they had checked everything and couldn't find a single fault. But every now and then all the radiators would be stone cold, and then just before the engineer came all would be working again. It was lucky though that the desludging took place as we have now located the problem, the Darren found out that the pump needs an auto air vent fitted to the pump. This at the end of the day after nearly 6 hours of work. He and I decided however to have the heating on all the time at a lower temp. and now we are ever so warm and cosy. But at soon as the pump does it again, out will British Gas have to come and I will tell them what to do. But to cut a long story short I had to take remove all the items around and near the radiators so that Darren and his mate could get at them; and boy was my work room a mess; stuff everywhere, I could hardly move. I was that tired so that yesterday I didn't go there at all, but this morning I had to come in and sort it out. With much pain I managed it, but the up side is that I found a lot of lost things or items I had forgotten about, plus was able to get rid of even more.

By twelve I felt that we, the Jellies and I (John thought a walk was a no-no) but we didn't; so booted and wearing a warm coat I opened the front door, and Jed and Nellie took off down the drive and out on the silent and quiet street. They LOVED it, gamboled about biting the snow, chasing each other. It was hard to control them so I turned back to the garden where they could have really fun. It was difficult to get up and down the steps since these were invisible, but by carefully feeling them I managed it.

The Jellies loving every minute of it!

Birdbath with snow

Gate into Charterhouse woods. This is what it is like everywhere. So here you have it, the first real snowfall as thick as this for 18 years. No wonder the berries had been so thick and so many this autumn.

A very great day: 12th January 2009

2009-01-25T03:33:00.000-08:00

You have guessed it! It was Alessia aka Beanie's first birthday and what an occasion it was! And there were balloons all over, although the biggest and the pride of the collection had vanished into the stratosphere from the push chair when Dad Mike and Alessia went to collect them.

She was beautifully dressed in a purple blue dress that auntie Giovanna had given her for Christmas and she was wearing it for the very first time she looked so sweet and lovely in it.

The whole Agrawal family plus Rita's cousin Paula from Sicily who comes every Christmas, and Alessia's godmother Rosie were already there. I was the last to arrive, just myself as John stayed home with the Jellies, there would have been too many of us. It was Alessia's day after all.

When I arrived she was having her birthday lunch: Clelia, Lidia and Paula all helping her. She was enjoying her meal very much in spite of all the attention to distract her as she loves her food. We were all had champagne drink to celebrate this special occasion; and once we had finished that it was time to go and look at the many presents she had received. Here is Rita taking her for the many cards and presents that there were for Alessia to open. There were quite few books for Rita and Mike to read to her every night. This was a great favourite

She was very much taken with sign of "Chateau Alessia Kobrak although Mike wasn't too sure where it could go as their new home in Tuscany will be called Ca' Alessia. One of her favourite Xmas present from her uncle Robert, was a fantastic walker with multiple items on the front such as bells and hooters and even with her own telephone! She even gave a demonstration how well she was learning to walk by going up and down the outside corridor of flat 30 accompanied by grandfather Ratan and other onlookers. I have a little bit of film but am not sure if I can get it into this blog However will have a try. If not till the next time.

And from now on I suppose she is no longer Beanie but Alessia although for her Oma she will always privately be "Beanie"

Here I am again this is the continuation from yesterday!

2009-01-14T02:37:00.000-08:00

Part II

Right where was I? Oh yes Fiona's 50th. As I wrote Fiona thought that it was going to be dinner for them four, with Paul Caitlin and Shaun on 3rd;there was another party on her actual birthday the 4th! She had no idea of the other guests who had congregated in town. Only in the afternoon after Nancy & Jim had arrived together with Sue and Alistair that morning, had gone for a walkabout in the afternoon ( they were not going to sit in their hotel room) and Nancy was trying on a blouse while Jim kept guard when all of a sudden he spotted Fiona at the same time as she spotted him. Fiona being Fiona did a double take gave her Dad a little wave and sauntered off. That evening they had a good laugh about it; and Fiona admitted she mentally enlarged the dinner to 6. But what a surprise when she entered the private room at Loch Fynne (the restaurant) and saw all the other guest. There were balloon a ginormous pink 50, champagne ready for pouring a black board decorated appropriately by John and Siena (Darra's daughter) and all of us signing Happy Birthday. Fiona looked lovely in her black top with 3 rows of pearlized buttons round her neckline and cuff. And me without my camera, I had been too cold that to remember it!!! A shame because we were all in our best finery. We had a wonderful time and meal lots of wine to drink for those who could and Fiona had some great presents including a diamond pendant to which we had all contributed and is on order. Well if you don't have diamond by the time you are 50 when then?

After this birthday it was John's on the 8th of Jan, a Thursday. We intended to go out for a special meal that evening at a super restaurant Kinghams in Shere. By special request. But unfortunately John had a very important meeting in Brighton, lunch with someone he was anxious to see, and I had to go along as a witness.

This meant the Jellies as well. We were due at 12 o'clock at a Manor near Brighton and left at 10 am which didn't give us much time for a walk and anyway it was fiercely cold so it was once around a picnic area at the bottom of the South Downs. We decided that two big meals on the same day was too much so we decided to postpone it all for a day to Friday. He had his cards which I had saved, and his presents some nice glasses to replace our chipped collection and another DVD series: Band of Brothers. Its quite a series which we had not seen and its very good, only after all that war, fighting and soldiers who all looked alike to me we decided to give it a bit of a rest. By as a contrast I got the Rosamund Pilchard series much more my style that John's. We now take turn and turn about. And all this time it was bitterly cold well below zer0. this was taken on Sunday 11th when we were envelopped in a freezing fog all day. But we went out specially to take some photos like this cobweb there were masses of them about, really spectacular. Unfortunately I find the cold really doesn't help my sciatic nerve and I was in too much pain to walk further and take many pix.

And then Monday 12th a very special day: "Beanie as she still is to me" was 1 year old and we had been summons to a family party at the Piper Building. There were at least 6 from Rita's side of the family and only me from Micko's side, as John elected to stay at home with Jellies; he had too much to do from his Thursday meeting. So I went on my own and thoroughly enjoyed myself.

The Birthday Girl looked so lovely in this gorgeous dress; French of course, Giovanna had bought it in Paris no less. When I arrived she was sitting eating her lunch with most of the females fluttering around . She got masses of presents from all over the world, a lot of clothes, in fact that girl could change clothes at least 3 x a day and not wear the same thing for a month! But she got lots of children books which her parents will read to her; and best of all lots of toys. Her favourite was a giant lego box. She loves taking things out and putting them back.

Here is one of her favourite men in her life who can't do enough for her!

She is definitely begining to walk and was given a wonderful stroller for Christmas with lights, tunes and even a telephone on it! Here she is going up and down the corridor with her Grandfather cheering her on.

Wow it seems as if I had disappeared from earth into space

2009-01-13T06:17:00.001-08:00

Its been that long since I last wrote anything, and worse I also had no time to read other people's blogs and make comments. SO SORRY. So much has happened. November 29 th John had a car accident and had his thumb pulled out of its socket and was in a plaster/plastic caste for three weeks, (all is fine there) but his car wasn't, its still being repaired due to the insurance company ballsing everything up, and new parts that need to be imported from Europe. Luckily John was able to rent a car in spite of his advanced age so we weren't stuck as me and the Jellies not so happy about traveling in the Stag, although I miss an automatic, hire car = Ford Fiesta with gears.

Any way December wasn't easy what with Christmas and having to get my Xmas presents finished. All members of the immediate family received a Mac photo album + videos on a DVD. I had spent months learning how to do this, most of my one-to-one sessions were spent on that, but it was well worth it. And now (by request) I got from the family Final Cut 4 which should make my films a lot better. When I mentioned that I had been given this to one of my trainers their reply was that I must be getting on ever so well as only specialised trainers could help me there. I also got myself the corresponding book so perhaps I will be fine.

To begin with the Xmas festivities my ladies in Stitch & Chatter had decided not to go out for a Christmas lunch but instead have a Xmas tea here in Flat 1. Every one brought something, I resuscitated my Xmas table clothes and bought some special table candle decorations (which I later used in Flat 2) and we had a wonderful time feasting , giving cards and little 'gifties'. I really wasn't in the mood for too much Christmas decorations as my back and sciatic nerve was paining me so much that the pain killers took all my energy away (but of that more later). Actually I suddenly got in the mood on Christmas Eve after listening to the 9 lessons and Carols from King's College which was magical, and really put me in the mood. Nonetheless only the minimal decoration and our fake tree was brought up as John had stored every thing under the stairs in the cellar which was inaccessible . Still with greenery gathered/stolen from the woods it all looked quite festive.

However Christmas Eve and Day John and I were on our own, every one was celebrating with their own families, and John and I had our presents on Christmas day; lots of lovely things, one a super fleece top for me, and jeans and a new jacket for John as well as the Poirot series and Miss Marple with Joan Hickson for me. She was by far the best Miss Marple of them all. We went for some good walks and just took it easy although I was also working on Alessia's sampler that had to be finished by the 12th of Jan.

The various families came for lunch on various days after: John's two sons and new daughter-in-law on the 27th; the St. Albanites + Fred on the 28th, and on the 30th Mike, Rita & Alessia with Fred. He was staying with each of the families so of course he was welcome. I had ordered most of the food from Waitrose so all I had to do is stick food in the oven and lay the table. I had main courses, puddings and snick snacks for all the days. Worked very well only the fridge and freezer were overflowing and some of the food had to be stowed out side. Luckily the weather played along as after Xmas we had some very cold weather; it was freezing below -2 0r -1 for several days and below that at night. Waitrose came up trumps and included instructions with all the main courses, vegs. and even the snick snacks except for the glazed gammon. With that came nothing so I assumed it was table ready. On the 27th just before we were due to sit down I wasn't too happy about its looks, cut a sliver off and found it red and not pink. What to do, panic panic! Had brilliant idea and bunged it into the microwave for 20 min. on high. Then into the oven for final glazing. It was superb, and the best of all the main courses. I will remember that.

On the 28th as I said Paul, Fiona Caitlin Shaun and Fred came; and after lunch we gave each other the various presents; especially Louise's wonderful photo album with all her Tuscan photos. They are really great and something to be looked at many a time.

Opa Fred and Caitlin in the kitchen
And on the 30th it was Michael, Rita & Alessia came for lunch

as you can see Alessia loves to make a mess by emptying our bucket of theatre programs, and then she will tidy up again.

And she is about to start walking, with a little help from Opa.

After the New Year which we spent at home watching our new videos; there was Fiona's 50th surprise dinner in St Albans which was really wonderful, her parents and brother & sister-in-law plus Darra Paul's best man with his family and of course John and myself had been invited to lovely restaurant in St. Albans.

Because it was so freezing cold John gave in to my pleas and we left the Jellies at home, rather than taking them with us and having them for 4 1/2 hours freezing in the car. They were perfectly okay and I don't think the were aware of our absence.

the white icicles on this bush with red berries will show how cold it was.

Must go now to have my toenails clipped. And prepare Jellies and our meal afterwards

So bye bye ....................................................... to be continued tomorrow my post on Fiona's party, John's 81st and Beanie's first birthday party.

Letter from the Godalming: What a great night!!!

2008-11-05T05:38:00.001-08:00

It has been some hectic weeks on the global level, we followed the American election trail inch by inch and to think it has ended in such a triumph!! Although I suspect that there were many who might not agree with this. But after last night and listening to Obama's victory speech: we realized what an orator he is, and if he is so articulate on his feet we must be a good thinker, and that can only bode good not only for the US but also for all of us in the rest of the world. After the last 8 years we were made all aware & dependent on who the American President is. And what was worse none of us non- American can not even vote for someone so powerful and influential in worldly matters. If Al Gore's presidency had not been stolen from him, I am convinced that the world today would have been quite different; and also I think that if Bush had not been the President for these last years Obama possibly would not therefore have become the first black President destined for the White House. What a tremendous success out came this is. Although I must say that if it hadn't been for McCain's running mate who know things might have been different, although I respect him immensely for the way he took his defeat.

However as that may be, I do feel that the new President elect will have his work cut out and certainly inherits a fantastic amount of troubles and difficulties and problems to carry and to solve. It also will be very interesting to see whom he selects for his cabinet and advisers. As we know these are of the utmost importance when it comes to governing and running such an influential country. Let us wish him well and that he may solve all those problems with which he was landed. I somehow he will fulfill all expectations and be considered as one of America's great Presidents: together with Lincoln and Roosevelt.

For the rest we have chundered along, the autumn weather did not keep up to its promise although I was able to captured some of the more spectacular colours imaginable and yesterday in a grey overcast day we went to the Arboretum just outside Godalming even so I got one of the trees that was just turning, I love the greeny green. But the exciting thing was their sculpture trail that is on till 12 Dec. so I was very pleased when John suggested we go for a walk there with the Jellies. They however weren't as happy as they had to walk on the lead, both of them. Where as Jed was fine on the expandable lead, Nellie was on an ordinary lead and pulled a lot; she hates not being in the front; and it was muddy and slippery and she nearly pulled me over in order to be first in the queue . So I changed with John and had Jed, he was the gentleman he usually is, but when I wanted to stop to photograph he just went on, which was definitely not making my pix too good. Judge for yourselves!

These fellas are most amusing and very clever
unfortunately there were five of these 'wicker' fellas emerging out of the ground starting with the head. I thought I had all of them but it seems that I am missing one; a pity that 'cause he was having a hard time getting out of the ground.

I will leave all of you with this final pix. My only regret the sun wasn't shining; and I cannot go back for another shot as the colours are nearly over.

We saw a wonderful program on Alastair Cooke and his letter from America to which we listened religiously every Sunday till he died at 95 some years ago. Hence the title of my blog.

I can't believe it!!

2008-10-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Its been exactly, well no longer, a month ago since I last put up a post. Am so sorry, but I lead such an uneventful life that there is practically nothing to write about.

Well not much except we have had a super autumn, the colours are glorious I will show some of them. The only exciting things if you can call it that, are that Jed & Nellie this time together ran away last Saturday while we were walking on Newlands corner. Jed was on the expandable lead but on the way back to the car while along the open field with the magnificent views John let Jed off, and I must admit Jed was very good and stayed fairly close to us while enjoying running free. He actually skips and gambles about bless him. Only ....................................................when we were nearly back at the car park the last little bit narrows down to a wooded path and guess what? You guessed it they both disappeared completely and were gone for 1/2 hour. I went into my usual spin but said as little as possible though I thought plenty. John stated that "we are training him not to run away" Huh! Still they did appear after 30 minutes and we all went home. John let them have it he growled with the best of them, and Jed went of his own accord into the cupboard under the stairs! it near broke my heart, has he been that conditioned?

I have also been very busy at learning to make a web site with Apple and sorting out my holiday photos and videos, editing and putting them together. its a lot of work as I am a slow learner, and all sorts of little jobs crop up to distract me and keep me from doing what I want to do.

One of my changes in life I now have a cleaner who comes every Monday morning at 8.30 am. She wanted to start at 8 but we're not up that early and have trouble being ready for her at 8.30. It took her 3 mornings to clean the kitchen thoroughly and one whole morning to do the sitting room. But we have such clean windows and dust free services, she is much better than I am. Her hoovering is so good that I noticed that the front room carpet is getting thread bare!! Maggie is lovely and a joy; her English isn't yet that good but getting better which is just as well as my Polish is nonexistent. But my silver has been cleaned and the shower curtains washed (these were done by me) as I have to do something to keep the Jellies away from her, she isn't too comfortable around dogs, and Jed is quite formidable (?) at the moment.

But I have also started on Alessia sampler which I am determined to finish before her first birthday so that I can present it to her. Caitlin was very concerned whether I would one at all.Sorry it is such a small picture but it will give you all an idea. Am now working on it, starting with top middle border. Its slow work but I love it!! And I may still change it as I go along.

TaTa for now thought you might enjoy this one.

Jed's Adventure, or should it be Misadventure?

2008-09-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Wednesday afternoon John took the Jellies for a walk at the mushroom farm, not my favourite place as Jed had vamooshed from there twice before. But we always got him back thanks to the kind doggie people who would ring up. Once from Cutmill about 5-6 miles away when he joined a family party in the garden at the house of a friend of mine!!!!

But since he now walks on the extending lead I thought it would be a doddle and let them go happily I stayed home as I had my "ladies" coming for Stitch & Chatter. After an hour John came back:"they are both gone, I whistled and whistled and nothing" it turned out he had gone off with out the extendable lead, with out any leads at all; he had thought they were in the car when they were not. (Man never checks things it seems.) I immediately hared off to the car park luckily we had had our lunch; and when I got there there was a very kind scruffy chap who had Nellie on a length of string. A very muddy but happy Nellie. I stayed awhile whistling for Jed; but nothing. All of a sudden a car with a lovely woman and her mother turned up at the car park and asked if I had lost a black dog, she had seen him crossing the road a little way back towards Godalming but he vanished into the wood. (We exchanged mobile Numbers and names, hers being Emma, and she said she would phone if she saw him again or caught up with him). Aha I thought: "t'is walkabout Jed", he will surely come now when he hears my whistle. I waited and waited, and whistled and whistled but nothing not a sight of him. By now as it was 1/2 hour past the Stitch & Chatter start I decided reluctantly to go home. Not too worried as I had my mobile on, and he does have a disk with our phone and my mobile number on it, as usual we wait patiently till some one calls to say they had found him. Poor Nellie was hosed down and not at all happy at being alone.

By then end of the session I and my friends were getting slightly worried, and they persuaded me , although I didn't need a lot of persuasion to go back to the car park. They promised to wait till I got back. Again no Jed: again I waited and waited and whistled, Emma turned up again to see if he was there or if we had found him. After a long wait I went home again in time to catch my "ladies" awaiting me by the garage and I could say goodbye. Nellie was fed, and she mooched about with her 'soul' under her arm pit, as we say in Dutch. We had our supper and we were getting more and more worried. John went to look again at 7pm just in case.......but no Jed. He went again at 9 when it was getting dark. By that time I was rather frantic visualising Jed round around in the woods and sitting shivering in the car park thinking he was abandoned. We finally went to bed, Nellie sleeping in our room, I had the phone and my mobile under my pillow, you never know. As you can imagine we didn't sleep that well for worrying.

Next morning still no calls; John went again to the car park with a printed poster. Then he went to London while I went googling for a website to do with lost dogs. There are several, and one of the tips I got was to contact our Dog Warden. Called the Godalming one first but when I told them where we had last seen him I was told that that area came under Guildford and to contact the Dog Warden there. Can you imagine my relief when I was told that they had pick up a black Staffie in the area of Norney Farm, and that they would be delivering him to Treetops a Guildford kennels. I was told to wait a bit and to phone them a little later.

Which I did, and was told to come as he was just being delivered, but that I had to pay a fee and/or fine of £52!!!!!!!! I was so happy that we was being restored to us, and that he was not sailing away that I didn't mind; though I will charge John at least half of this. And all our friends & even Emma, who had gone once more past the car park were just as happy! The welcome I got, actually he charged and launched himself at me when he came out of the door, and couldn't wait to get into the car and home soon enough. Just as well as Nellie was rapidly becoming white with anxiety! And the reason why we got no phone calls and why he was picked up by the Dog Warden: his identity disk was gone, not his collar only the disk!!!!! He is now the proud owner of a new one, shaped like a bone.

That's all folks, "all 's well that ends well" but we hope he has learned his lesson.

Your

Where are you all? This Autumn!

2008-09-08T02:41:00.000-07:00

Here I had posted a new post since June, all about Caitlin's birthday.presents, balloons, champagne, grand food, and grandparents and a baby; even a video for your edification, and not a nibble, nary a visit or comment! Well what to do?

The only recourse I have is to tell you all that the Autumn to date has been dire; lots and lots of rain, although where we are we haven't been flooded yet, that is reserved for Wales and the Midlands. However our spirits aren't that brilliant as you can imagine. But I thought I would upload a a few pix, I took in between the rain.

Here is a view of some wonderful heather they have thrived

and what about this sky: guess what that holds, yes you have guessed it RAIN

Today I am off to Regent's street again for a training session, haven't been for weeks. Lets see what I I will learn today. By by till later

2008-09-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

Caitlin's 16th Birthday

2008-09-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

Lookit The birthday girl Sixteen today !!!

Finally I am back, at long last. So sorry for the long delay, and what is worse there is no post about our fabulous Tuscany holiday celebrating the big Birthdays : Fred's 80th on the 24/09, and Paul's 50th. All the photos and films I had taken, and I took a lot, were downloaded unto my Mac as I am learning to edit, make movies and photos there, but am at present unable to transfer those to the Mesh from which I blog. I have even learnt to burn the movies onto a DVD, actually am still working on that at the weekly training one-to-one course. I have learnt such a lot, but there is simply oodles more to learn. I am in the process of making a photo book of this holiday, but that is still in the future.

This post however is all about Caitlin's birthday, her 16th which fell on the Sunday as well! And of course there was no way that I could miss that. Her other grandparents Nancy and Jim were there as well. Caitlin had some fabulous presents: one of the main ones a lovely brown leather jacket. There was the Complete Series 3 of Dr. Who from the Demetres, a jar of jelly beans; a plaque of her favourite car: a Mini, to go on her wall, that is the car she is saving up for, in the future. She got a lovely bag, an enormous Filofax from Nancy & Jim, a lovely brown dress, 3 Shubert CDs, money for her savings etc. etc. (for more info go to BlogbyKobrak .)

Before lunch Rita and Alessia arrive, more presents and pink fizz, only Caitlin wasn't quite up to that so she and Shaun had something else.

We then had lunch, all dishes chosen by the birthday girl: dips with raw veggies and chips, after that lamb curry ( the poor things had to have a leg of lamb the night before) in order to have the lamb for this; with rice and for pudding two kinds of ice cream: mango with coconut which was lovely, and one other I can't remember now it was lovely too but not as nice as the mango one, and then of course there was the cake: sixteen candles no less.

one of the many photographers who was at the party snapping all sorts of people

as shown here.

That is it folks a lovely afternoon was had by all; even though it did take me 2 and 1/2 hours to get home. The weather was atrocious and the M25 packed with traffic, for some time were were going at the tremendous speed of 10 miles per hour! While the rain bucketed down. Still I got to hear a lovely Mozart quartet well worth it. So till the next time this is me saying so long not that I look like this YET

As a special treat I have posted separately before this post my video taken on Sunday. Actually I took two, but the first one I took portraitwise on my camera and it doesn't like that, should be landscape and so you can only view it with your head a a sideways angel. Too tiring! I could post it if enough people would like a go. So let me know.

Big Day for the Kobraks & Thorpes

2008-07-03T09:37:00.000-07:00

Just a short post about Sunday 29th Alessia's Christening. I rather thought you must all be agog to hear about it! I haven't yet had time to edit and down load the photos and video clips, so here are just a few to whet your appetites.

The day was beautiful sunny but not too hot, which was the best for the Jellies as they had to come with us and spend most of the day in the car.

We had been bidden to arrive to the Church at 10 to 11am. We left so early and the traffic was so light that we arrived at the church by 10.30 which meant we could park just opposite the church entrance. However soon we were not the only ones, Sue and Robert (Rita's brother and sister-in-law) were next to arrive, and the the St. Albanites arrived and little by little the other guests as well and then the most important ones of all the proud Dad, with his daughter; then

and her Mum. Beanie was most bemused by it all the expression above on her little face says it all; she was desperately trying to figure it all out. And she was so good during the ceremony never cried even when the holy water splashed all over her little face.

As for the Mass it was beautiful, I have loads of video clips but you must wait for those. Am at present learning to edit these in i.Movie on my MacBookPro. The things I have learnt are amazing, and haven't reached the final depth of what is possible yet. It seems life is too short for everything I want to do. I will however download one of the video clips from my new camera (bought the afternoon before, but more of that in a later post) taken at Il Pagliacio were we all had a most delicious meal. A hilarious time was had by all as is shown on my movie clip.

my grandaughter and I will now take leave from you all till the next time.

I am sorry haven't had time to edit this yet but it will give you an idea.

Here it is, the explaination!!!

2008-06-20T02:06:00.000-07:00

I really shouldn't get that involved in new things, am desperately trying to get on top of i.Movie,and keep taking new clips that have to be edited; also have a lot of them from way back of the Demetres, some of them dating from 2003 which I want to put all together for the kids to watch when they come over here.

Then yesterday I went to a WVWorkshop on making special little books. Given by some one whom I had really admired ever since I saw her books at the last two Ramster exhibitions first one in 2005. That year her books were not for sale. But at the next one in 2007 they were, but a bit too pricey. So all I could do was admire them! Then this year Frances came to give us talk and lecture and this week she came over to give a workshop, I managed to go for the first day, which was all about covers, just what I wanted; and I have learnt such a lot for making my Altered Books especially the covers. Some of Frances' work and books in the making.

I still have two of these, # 4 and 6; and to my great delight both of them have been accepted for the VivArtis Exhibition at the King Edward VI school in Witley. This is a very prestigious exhibition in the South of England, mostly painters and sculptors, and they are in a very high class indeed. Three years ago they accepted 3 of my embroideries as they don't have much in that media, only some, but they were more incorporated into painting.

Last year I even sold one of my pieces there; and this year I took my Faces & Families Book to show for selection as it doesn't really photograph well enough.

At the last moment I took my Dragons & Butterflies Book as well and the piece of work I am working on at present, the Autumn leaves one. I thought I would frame I have been working hard on this piece and it is nearly finished, and really deserves to be put on the wall and exhibited.and if it isn't sold it will go into Book #7 having taken it out of its frame. Funny embroidery doesn't really photograph well while in the making. But scanning is even worse. this is straight from the camera, no editing, just to give you an idea. Must go and do some banking and then its "walkies" time again

So it is Bye Bye from all of us.

About time I think.

2008-05-31T09:39:00.000-07:00

So sorry about the lapse of time, but now that I am jumping from one computer to another i.e. my Mesh and my AppleMac I seem to have less time than ever. Am also cleaning my photo files and folders, a major job, and haven't got very far with this. Did my tax returns and those for Gatesgarth, am going for a one-to-one training every week, learning all sorts of things about the Mac. Very necessary; latest is about editing my movie clips. Boy do I need that, I was not to good at filming. However I have learnt a lot, and my filming has improved quite a bit.

Unfortunately its all on the Apple Mac and I haven't yet learnt how to get them in my blog. Am going to training on Monday and I will enquire. John is busy trying to let the bottom flat of his London house and I am also trying to get on with my Altered Book #7; have lots of ideas, and am even working on an embroidery: a photo I took of autumn leaves It has progressed somewhat further, am 1/2 way across, but it takes a lot of time, something I haven't got.

#6 went to the Exhibition and returned unsold, so now I will put it into another Exhibition in Sept-Oct.

Thought you all might like this pix makes a change!

To be continued as soon as I can

Finally read all about Shaun's birthday; his 13th no less.

2008-05-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

I have finally finished the tax returns, my own and the one for Gatesgarth. Actually it didn't take that long, about 3 1/2 days for the two of them, only I kept putting it off and postponing the starting. Somehow just didn't want get into it, there always were very nicer and more interesting things to do instead. But this meant I couldn't get to the new post all about Shaun's birthday celebrations, because due to my "calvinistic upbringing" I had to finish the chores first. Of course there was my weekly training at Regents Street interrupting the chores, and the practising of all I learnt. But more of that later.

Shaun's birthday as you all know was on the 2nd of May, a Friday, so the St. Albanites came to Godalming on Saturday as well Micko, Rita and the terrific bonus, Beanie aka Alessia. All from St. Albans were delighted to see the little one and all wanted to hold and cuddle her.

Even the Jellies behaved themselves around her after we all came back from lunch at Prezzo and they were allowed to be with us. They thought she was terrific. What she thought of the Jellies we do not know.
Everyone turned up at about 12.30 all together and what a reunion, ohs and ahs by the most of them all over, no not really Shaun, but the littlest member of the family! Still Shaun was delighted with his presents from the Demetres, he is now a great fan of the Portland Blazers. In fact he is acquiring quite a collection of baseball uniforms, last year it was the LA Lakers. After all had been exclaimed over, admired and tried on; off we went in 2 cars to our usual haunt Prezzo's for lunch. I had booked a round table over a week ago thinking it would be full, but there were only 2 other tables occupied. Still it was around 2pm on a hot sunny Saturday afternoon and the town fair was also going on. as you can see we all had a good time in the empty restaurant Shaun's favourite. Lovely food as usual; actually several of us had pizzas and garlic bread and all the rest that one has in an Italian place. Perhaps we were all gearing up for our Tuscany holiday in July!

By now it is Monday 19th, it has taken me three days to do this blog. Started it on Sat. 17th of May and couldn't finish it then, don't ask me why, there are always interuptions in my life. Sunday we had to go to a drinks party at 12 pm and didn't get back till 2, then took the Jellies for a walk, and guess what Jed diasappeared again, and he was found 3 miles way in Cutmill 2 1/2 hours later. The crazy thing was that he was found by one of my WVW pals; as I said to Stella I never thought I would get to her house this way. They were ever so nice, he had joined them in their back wood, and Stella's children just loved him. Can't say I felt the same then; and of course when we got home into Guantanamo he went (John has taken to putting him in the cupboard for a bit, thinks Jed will learn that way; I am not convinced, but actually today he was very good and never wondered off at all; it was Nellie who was the naughty one and so she spent some time there. I do despair).

Any way today was my weekly training at Regent's Street Apple Store. I take the 9.35 train up to Waterloo and get at the store by 10.45 having had a Costa coffee on the way. I had been training in iMovie; started it last week, and tried to edit my imported videos from my Mesh but got my knickers a bit in a twist . Its not as easy as you think when you are an ignoramus aabout Apple Mac as I am. Last Friday my friend June even came and we had go, but didn't get very far. I managed to get a good book on iMovie 08 and iDVD 08 from Amazon, actually they had a double offer for iPhoto as well which I also got. So now I should be making my little video clips into small movies. Today at training I learned a lot more; and wrote as much down as I could, so I hope it will stick. I had edited the Jellies as pups, and learnt to put text and transitions and even sound; they gambol to Beethoven's 5th no less. I must find doggie tunes; if any one know any good ones let me know. I can't put movie on here as it is on my Apple Mac laptop. But perhaps I can learn to blog there as well, will see. So here is a little clip for your enjoyment taken at Prezzo's. I think I am getting better at filming!

Some of us at Prezzo's.

Thats it folks for now, will be back some time to show you all our beautiful blossoms and spring going on.

My trip to Portland, the second instalment

2008-05-05T07:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry again! it took longer than I thought. Somehow I didn't get around to doing it on Friday, too busy, so busy I have lost all memory of it. Senior moments that. Then on Saturday the St. Albanites and the Chelsea-ites came to celebrate Shaun's birthday which was on Friday. I just managed to phone him around 9 pm; but then the phone had been busy. However I am not writing about that visit yet you all will have to hold your breath; till I have time to do that. Maybe tomorrow, Tuesday in the morning, although I should be doing my tax returns, and in the afternoon I cannot as I am stewarding at Guildford House at the WeyValleyWorkshop Exhibition.
Right so here is the remainder of my Portland visit: It was really beautiful in Portland,(when it was not raining) most of the trees were in bloom with such lovely blossoms, this was taken on the way to school. After the Spring break was over Louise, Milo and I would walk the kids to school and fetch them again in the afternoon much to the chagrin of "MoggyMoo" who hates to walk. But of course Milo loves it, its why I come, he feels, even if only once a year.

And then during the Break we went to the sea side. That day was the most amazing weather-wide: we had rain, sunshine, fog, snow and hail one after another. The drive to the sea side to visit friends of Louise and Morgan usually takes 1 hour, this time it was nearly 1 1/2. Here is why

here is another view of the drive there; would you believe that this is spring?

However when we got there the sun had come out, but then when we went to have lunch in this super fish-type inn it rained again. Nonetheless we had a lovely lunch there thanks to Molly's father Andy; some of us had clam chowder and fish and chips, absolutely delicious. But then the food in Portland and at the sea side was ever so good although such huge portions. Luckily a lot of places did do smaller combined meals which suited us very well indeed.

The next celebration was of course Easter: look what that "clever Easter bunny brought us", these two were up before 7 am on Easter Sunday even though they had taken part in two Easter hunts the day before! It was a lovely candy and chocolate period. When we were not munching on that Louise and I were having great quality time playing with my MacBook and hers, she downloaded all sorts of music and audio books onto mine from hers, the latter for my new iPod, did I mention that the last training session I also procured myself and iPod which I now can use quite well. And love to listen to the books Louise put on for me. Especially when I go up by train to my London training session, much better than books as the iPod is so much smaller and lighter. However that was just an aside:

One Sunday I think it was the last one, Darren took us all to Mother's, a wonderful place to have breakfasts or brunches: as usual we filled ourselves up to the brim "Moggy Moo's" favourite part of the meal,
Owen didn't do so badly either I think chocolate cake is his favourite! am not at all sure if this pix was my camera being funny or if he really looked like this at that moment of utter delight.

Owen's birthday was also a bonus that had been fore-planned, although I nearly wasn't there: my much loved brother-in-law Piet had died peacefully in his sleep the Thursday before and his funeral was going to be on the day I was flying back. If I had wanted to be there I would have had to leave on Owen's birthday; but I was unable to change my ticket to the Tuesday, so although I really was torn both ways I stayed to help celebrate his birthday, his 9th and took them all out for dinner at Porcelli's. Supposed to be good with home cooked Italian, but it wasn't as the portions were too much, and none of us could finish our meal.

So I would like to finish up by saying what a wonderful time I had with my two wonderful American grandchildren as you can see here (Louise's pix which I stole from her blog), but I also had a wonderful time being with Louise and Darren.
Just before I left I took one more pix of Morgan and her #1 fan , even if he looks fierce he really isn't, such is a poppet of a dog.

And just one more for your delight this was taken at the beach to show what the weather was like that day;

the dogs had a ball.
Thats it folks must go it is Jellie time, in the even though I find I am not that fond any more of that part of the house. Must be my age! See you all next time!

I don't really look like this even though I sometimes feel it.

Whee at last I have returned.

2008-05-01T05:03:00.000-07:00

Its been a long, long time since my last post, so much has happened and it was such a long time that I had even forgotten the password to get into my account!! Imagine; but luckily I have a secret place where I record these things and so found it again. Needed to look at all my pix that I have taken since my last posting.

So much to record: so here it goes; my last post was in Feb. when we went to Christina to fetch the marmalade she made for John (at my expense!)

Since then I finished my Altered Book # 6 entitled Faces and Families here is the front cover; the back is the same but not with the face (of course) and one of my favourite pages. I think in earlier posts I did give some glimpses to titillate. But now it is finished, was handed in on the 19th of March and is at present exhibited at the Wey Valley Workshop Exhibition at the Guildford House Gallery at the High Street Guildford. This Exhibition opens on Saturday 3rd of May, I shall be stewarding there in Tuesday afternoon so can see it all for myself, and it runs till the 24th. I also entered a sampler I made for John's great niece Nell. This one is NFS and awaiting to be presented to her later in the year. My Faces and Families book is for sale @ £475 no less. Lets see if it will go for that price. Guildford House Gallery is a very good venue; but I not bothered if I don't sell it. Have 2 more future exhibitions to which it can go.

On the 20th of march I flew off to Portland with BA to Seattle and then caught a local flight from there with Alaskan Airlines. And although BA took off an hour late and landed at 6 pm instead of 5 pm I still managed to catch my booked flight to Portland even if it was a tight squeeze; and I arrived with all my luggage at 8.45 pm where Louise was awaiting me. We went straight to their lovely house, but the grand kids and Darren were already asleep. The only one awaiting me was Milo who was looking through the curtains of the sitting room window. And what a welcome he gave me, he obviously had not forgotten me the mad dog. It was lovely to see him again as well as Owen and Morgan next morning when I woke up; It was hugs all around. Owen has grown nearly as tall as myself.

The children had a last day at school before their week's spring break so Louise and I hared of to the Apple shop where Louise had booked me a personal shopping appointment. When we arrived there I was overwhelmed with the friendly service of all those lovely guys who work there. Louise and I had a ball selecting the AppleMacPro laptop with all sorts of extras. The £ being so very good against the $. I was able to upgrade the RAM to 400 Mb, if that says anything. I also acquire the .Mac so that I can go on the Internet and have a new email address there. And I bought a Time Capsule in order to go wireless at home and as an extra hard drive for storage purposes. Don't ask how it all works because I still don't know. It all is a completely new learning curve. But I did get a one-to-one training course for a year and as such can go once week for an hour with a personal trainer. The first one of all I had that same morning after we had had lunch and they had upgraded the laptop. Boy did I need this. And am still going once a week here in London to the Regent Street Shop having also acquired a senior rail card for a good discount for my weekly train journeys. The Apple Store is quite something with a glass stair case.

It is however not as amazing as the New York store which is a huge glass cube out on the street.

I will need to go for many a week till next March 'cause there is so much to learn. I do know already that like all Apple Mac users I am totally in love with this terrific machine. Even though I also use my Mesh PC which is behaving quite well touch wood. This means running from one to the other, quite tiring that and no wonder I haven't much time.

Back to my Portland adventures: For Owen's birthday party we went to see the Portland Blazers (Basketball) team play the Washington Wizards, they beat these by 102 - 82 if I remember correctly we had seats quite high up so had an excellent view of everything going on. this came up in the screen in one of the intervals.

Even this floated past our amazed eyes at one point, the atmosphere was electric and we all had a ball. Came home quite late, and one of Owen's pals stayed for a sleep-over and the next day, when it rained. It rained a lot while I was there. but luckily not all the time.

To be continued:

That's it folks must go and feed the Jellies. Nellie awaiting her grub!

The King and his Men

2008-02-12T03:03:00.000-08:00

I won't let you all wait too long with bated breath: so here is our tale of what we encountered in Warwickshire when we went to visit Christina to collect our marmalade. We left home around 10 am and got to near Christina's in Long Compton by 12 pm. The weather wasn't too good, and the poor Jellies were sitting in the back with their legs crossed. They needed a walk.

So John took a few turns off the main road and before we knew it we arrived at the Rollright Stones; we had seen signposting to the Great Rollrights and on the other side to the Little Rollrights. We ended up at the little ones. They weren't all that little. As John took the Jellies off , they were not allowed on the site, I went to have a look and took a few photos.

The Rollright Stones are one of the best known stone circles in the British Isles, dating from the late neolithic period (2500 - 2000 BC). They lack the spectacle of Stonehenge, but they have a stillness and reclusive mystery, hiding from the traveller like a fox in a bush. The scale is human and does not intimidate like the giant processional menhirs of Avebury, and it is still possible to have the stones entirely to yourself if you pick your time. I nearly had the stones to myself, as there was only one other couple there, who enlightened me that they liked to photograph these sites, and churches in the dark and in the evenings. When I commented that the site was only open from dawn to sunset he wasn't too worried, as there was nary an official person in sight. To be expected at this time of the year. The main circle of stones is called the King's Men. It is difficult to count the stones (legend says it is impossible) but most people arrive at a number between 70 and 80. I didn't even try.

They are most amazing: all the stones are weathered into grotesque shapes, as rotten and riddled with holes as old timber. this one looks as if he has an eye.

In a nearby field there is a large, solitary stone called the King Stone, and a few hundred yards away is a group of stones called The Whispering Knights Unfortunately I wasn't able to take a photo of these as they were further afield in a very muddy site. But I did manage to get one of the King himself In a nearby field there is a large, solitary stone a bit hard to see; I didn't really want to get my shoes any more muddy than necessary.

There is a great deal of folklore associated with the stones. Young women were rumoured to touch the King stone with their breasts at midnight for fertility. Fairies live under the stones. The stones dance. They go down to the stream to drink. The witch elder bleeds when cut. Witches have met there since time immemorial. There is no doubt that modern neopagans do meet there, and there are many accounts of nightime visitors coming across strange goings-on. Visitors should note that the main circle of the Kings Men is privately owned, and midnight frivolity could land you in trouble.

What therre is to see at the Great Rollrights I don't know, will have to leave that till when we go again that way. I hope you found this interesting, I did these places are really unique and fascinating.

Shall now sign off as we are going away on Thursday 14th till Thursday 21st to Honicombe Manor just inside the border of Cornwall, near to Tavistock. No doubt I will have something to tell when I get back . Will take my camera of course. thought you all might enjoy this pix.

PS I shall block off my email address so as not to be inundated with emails when I get back but you can reach me on my mobile anytime except in the middle of the night.

About time!!!!

2008-02-11T03:14:00.000-08:00

So sorry its been this long, but I didn't have a lot to write about; although i have been quite busy trying to finish Nell Timms' (John great niece) sampler, and get on with my latest Altered Book. Both of which I want to put in the Wey Valley Workshop Exhibition at Guildford House in May. Everything for this has to be in on March 19th, the day before I go to Portland. Phew can just make it, that is if the work is finished. The sampler just has to have the baby's weight added, and the book on Faces its cover done. Of course, me being me, I don't go for the easy option, no not me. I use a beautiful paper which I thickened with wadding; and then stitch on it. But thats not all, no I decide to enrich it with tiny beads, all very well only there may be more beading to do that I have time for; on top of which I am not at all sure that I like it. The colour I mean. But definitely haven't time to do another
this is the better colour, its not so bluey. Luckily all the pages are now finished except for an embellishment or two.

However we did take time out to go visiting, first to Christina who had finished making my order of marmalade for the year, and the on Saturday we went down to the easide as it was such a wonderful day; a real bonus of a day, wonderful crispy sunshine; the beach was crowded with people, kids and dogs. Our two had a great time socializing and playing around in the sand dunes. There were people who were fishing on the shore, or boating the wonderful rough water.

The meerkats weren't there, or better said I only managed to snap one as you can see; Nelliebel was most interested in this one! We all basked in the sunshine, the Jellies raced aroundand a great time was had by all. Since the seaside kiosk/cafe was closed tight, we went into Littlehampton to our favourite eatery: the East Beach Cafe for one of their wonderful meals. After which we came home again by 3.30 am, tired out wth good food, and fresh sea air.

Thats it folks for now, tomorrow or soon I will return to relate our experiences and adventures with the Kings Men and the King himself on Thursday last when we were with Christina in Warwicksire, so you will just have to wait a little longer as I must get back to beading my book cover. TaTa for now

All's well that ends well as Shakespear said.

2008-01-22T06:08:00.000-08:00

the Naughty one!!!

After I finished the post yesterday and had packed up, closed the PC down thank goodness a lady lady phoned from Cutmill about 2-3 miles from where we had walked and waited for Jed; to say she had him in her garden. he had been seen running through fields by other people, and turned up in her garden quite scared as he was yelping. John went to collect him and let him have it with rolled up news paper. He was not allowed any food till 8 pm about 3 hours after his usual time. He came home very subdued, and slink in, trying to make up to us both. I hoped that he had learnt a lesson, it seems as if he might have as this afternoon when John took them for a walk in the woods behind the White Horse in Hascombe, (there are deer there too) he behaved impeccably circling around John and popping up periodically. Phew they were a few bad moments. I still don't trust him totally but we will have to see. It certainly spoilt walks for me; and I had a bad night over it. This afternoon we are taking them to Mr. Cully the vet we used have for Emma as John wants a 2nd opinion on their condition.

Well that's all folks for now I must get on with my altered book cover and our vet appointment is at 3.45 pm on Cranleigh; its 14.33 pm now

Its about Time!

2008-01-21T03:34:00.000-08:00

I am sorry it has taken such a long time since my last post, in fact I don't know where to begin! Last post I think was about our New Year celebrations; and it has seemed as if the year is well under the way, so much has happened.

First John had his 80th birthday and I took him and the Jellies off to Bailiffscourt our favourite hotel.

Here we are at his birthday dinner his cake!

To think that that day we nearly lost the Jellies when they jumped over a wall in Arundal where we had gone for a walk about. On our way back to the car we went into a little park near the carpark, they rushed over to the wall at the end of the park bordering the Arun river which was in full spate, tide going out. They didn't realise the river was there, and the next thing we knew they were swimming for their lives, luckily there was a tiny strip of ground and grass along this wall and by coaxing them onto this they managed to walk along to a small boatyard next door where they could scramble on land. John had to climb the fence into this to lift them over the fence, they were too exhausted to jump back to me in the park. But if that strip hadn't been there we might never have found them as they would have been swept away in this

After this adventure we went back to the hotel, and then took them for a walk along the beach later onwater and sea was still very stormy.

It would have been a terrible birthday if they weren't such good swimmers; I now know that all dogs can swim they had never showed any inclination to do this. It really doesn't bear thinking about. So we had something special to celebrate besides John 80 years.

The following weekend 12/13th John had organized a family gathering in one of our local hotels for nearly all his relations in and around here plus his sister and niece over from New Zealand, his nephew, wife and baby Nell and Royce's sister-in-law as well as another niece and nephew who live herein the UK and various cousins and his favourite and only auntie Dorothy, 95 years old and still going strong. It was a real family gathering and a good time was had by all. But prior to all this John took the Jellies for a walk at Hydon's Ball. A lovely wood to walk where we have been several times over the years. And Jed ran away, after a deer John was unable to get him back whistling, so after quite a while he came home with just Nellie. I was "doing my nut" when a friend who lives around there rang to say they had found Jed in their neighbour's garden with a deer he had caught and was killing (they had to shoot the deer) so John hared over there to get the "bad boy" and then went to the hotel to get the room ready with all his paraphernalia for the evening. But the party and feast was a huge success, everyone thoroughly enjoyed talking to various other family members with:" remember when". Lots of good stories came alight. Next day Sunday was Nell's 1st birthday which we celebrated with some of the immediate family. Nell is an utter sweetie who entrances everyone. For her I had even baked a cake, me who isn't at all good at baking cakes, but I now have a fail-safe recipe which turned out quite delicious. Must do it again.

But the GOOD NEWS is that that morning Saturday 12th at 1.08 am my latest grand child was born: Alessia Lidia (after her two grandmothers) aka Beanie. She weight 7lb 5 oz and was & is a little poppet.Rita had a bad time, as the baby wasn't coming when she should have so she was induced; everything was going to plan till suddenly Beanie's heart beat dropped so they decided on a caesarean. But next morning mother and baby were fine and I was able to go and visit 3 days later here I am with her fast asleep on my arm, which after an hour or so went to sleep, my arm that is. Luckily her other grand parents and great auntie came for a visit so it was their turn to hold her. She is going to be much loved, cuddled and held and she can already wrap her Daddy around her little finger .

During all this going on, the Jellies haven't been in such a good fettle. Jed developed a sore along side his nose, and a week or so later Nellie also developed spots on her face, neck and upper body this looks worse than it is, and here is her scar. A visit to the vet resulted in having a biopsy done and the vet was then able to tell us what they had: ringworm!!!!! Very expensive and quite nasty. They are on massive dose of pills twice a day, it is early days yet and they don't seem to respond as of yet. But the vet said it would take at least 4 weeks for results to show. John has decided meanwhile to have a 2nd opinion from another vet to make sure they are getting the right medication.

And now for the final episode in this horrendous saga, when we went for a walk this afternoon in one of the wood not to far from our house Jed disappeared again, we think after a door. Nellie rushed around looking for him, we whistled and whistled; a kind walker who did the same walk said he could hear the whistling and that Jed definitely was not in the area. After waiting nearly an hour in the rain we went home but John will go back fairly soon to see if Jed is waiting in the car park. He does have our land line and my mobile phone numbers on his tag. He is also micro chipped but I am hoping and praying he will turn up at the car park; or that some one will find him. I will also phone our dog warden to see what else we can do. I am THAT anxious and worried about him. Except for Beanie's arrival and John's birthday party 2008 hasn't been that good.

I will keep you posted hugs to you all

In the New Year

2008-01-11T06:01:00.000-08:00

Here we are at least 10 days into the New year and I haven't written very much. Life has been that hectic. For New year's Eve we went down on the 30th, or is it up, no I think westwards to spend it with my sister Maryse and David at her super cottage in Glos. Lovely place. The Jellies were more than welcome.

We arrived on Sunday in the late afternoon; there had been no sign of Beanie as yet, but it wasn't due till the 31st. Had been afraid that we might have had to postpone it due to Beanie's imminent arrival, but not a bit of it. Nothing on the 31st so we celebrated in style: here we are at the festive table, with our crowns on and another

We managed to stay up till the end to see the fabulous fireworks in London on TV. They were out of this world and went on and on for 15 minutes exploding in an enormous finale. Just the thing to see the old year out and the new one in. Let us hope it will be a much better one, although 2007 wasn't that bad. Even though I turned 75, am getting more creaky and broke my leg.

Meanwhile still no Beanie, come along baby and show your self.

I salute you all and leave you with this little final gadget for you to play with.

Christmas 2007 and all that Oh Joy and Bliss!!

2007-12-29T08:15:00.000-08:00

Well finally we arrived at the BIG day which seemed to go on forever, well a whole week of it

actually the festivities started on the 24th Christmas Eve. The candles are lit, the fire blazing away here is another and

better view of our fireplace.

I had planned a little supper in our 'dining room' Where ever I could candles were lit!

Christmas Eve John and I spend on our own. Listening to the Nine Lessons & Carols from Kings College, Cambridge. An annual tradition if and when I can catch it. We also heard Benjamin Brittens' Christmas Carols, a wonderful piece of work, but not every one's cup of tea. For this little supper we had ll sorts of snick-snacks, salmon on brown bread ( couldn't quite finish them) little snacks from the oven = pastry spoon with tiny shrimps, a small shrimp and mango appetizer, quails eggs it just went on and on. I had gone quite mad this Xmas, for someone who didn't want to know about Christmas well you'd never guess. For Boxing Day I had a wild boar roast, it was okay but rather dry and I don't think I will have THAT again, but it came with all the trimmings, for the 27th when John's son Michael came for the day I had ordered 1/2 a cooked ham. Well! if that was 1/2 a one, I wouldn't like to order a whole one.. (We are still eating of it , sandwiches, and slices to New Year's Eve at my sisters; the bone for pea soup on the 13th of Jan, and bits and pieces for spaghetti carbonara (John's favourite) are in the freezer). We had of potatoes and baked celery as well as Christmas pudding which John had bought. It took all my persuasion that he didn't get the largest one; there is still half left.

Christmas day we had been invited to Michael and Rita's which was super: Rita's family was there, her dad Ratan, mum Lidia, auntie Clelia, brother Robert and his wife Sue, and Giovanna Rita's sister. Beanie was still with us, but not in the world yet. Rita looked well although she did get tired, but then we were such a noisy crowd. Our host and hostess set a superb table and we started with a glass of golden champagne. our host and hostess and some of the other guests: Robert, Giovana & Sue lighting the candles. As you see the table was loaded.

Dinner was thanks to Ratan, Lidia and Micko who all contributed and did the cooking. Their large kitchen at times looked quite crowded but oh what a feast, smoked salmon to begin with, turkey with all the trimmings, here are some glimpses:Lidia's and my dinner plates I like dark meat best, so I got the leg; but it looks a little small for a turkey leg, so perhaps it was chicken and not turkey as Micko told me later they had M&S stuffed turkey beast. Still it was delicious.and so were the veggies .

After all this copious meal yes you've guessed it it was time for the the pudding Micko serving it ands in charge of the fireworks here it is in its full glory: and most delicious it was too.

Even the Jellies were not forgotten! believe it or not they each had a dish of their own; once they had finished it was like us: OUFF, only we didn't collapse on the floor like that.

On the 28th when Paul, Fiona, Caitlin and Shaun came I had a 4 rib Rib Roast with sprouts & chestnuts, (not my favourite) and honey parsnips and small baked potatoes with a dip on them, Shaun of course had his usual penne with tomato paste and pesto sauce and fresh cut raw vegetables with dip and Pizza Express sauce. I think it is the sauce he likes best. But he did have the chocolate sponge pudding which was yummy. Nothing was left. There was a lot of the beef left, it was Wakeling's best, but that was wonderful as I love cold roast beef sandwiches. here are some pix for your enjoyment

Christmas is over, and the next one is in 362 days from now as the milkman once reminded me

and one more pix 'cause I like it

Thats it folks, till the new year!!!!!

Well I never.....not this year I thought.

2007-12-19T03:09:00.000-08:00

I never thought that I would go in for Christmas decorations and all that jazz, but on Sunday I woke up full of vim and vigour and decided something must be done; so we went into the cellar, John disappeared like a Xmas pixy into the hole under the stairs to retrieve the boxes of Christmas decorations, and we found all sorts of things, among them a bag which was full of a beautiful Danish tree, completely broken down with years, a synthetic tree in a tall thin box, it took two of us to get it out of its box; and then I decorated it will some glass balls and other little items. but it is still a pathetic little tree nothing like the full blown ones in the families. There will be no candles on this tree, I think its a bit dangerous with the Jellies careering around as they do every now and then.

There were also lots of boxes full of table decorations, I shall be doing the table in kitchen and on the coffee table in the sitting room with candles and greenery and balls of course and any other items I can find on Saturday or Sunday, so it doesn't dry out too much.

Then got into the swing of things and did the mantle piece in the front room, this was decorated with the remains of the Danish tree I had had for ever so long and was planning to chuck! Goes to show if you hang on to it long enough it will come in useful and handy. There were some really lovely decorations on it. And at least the greenery stays loking fresh, not like the real stuff dropping their needles and making a mess.

This year John isn't doing his 'fairy grotto' as he always did when Caitlin and Shaun were little. And when I said fairy grotto that's exactly what it was. The little 'uns loved it cause it was different from what there was at home; and I think John may secretly have been pining to do it again. However Next year he can let go again for when and if Beanie comes.

I even did some cookie plates for friends and our Dr. for him the bag with the bottle of wine. (Darren should be pleased that it was a Californian wine; haven't come across wines from Oregon, although I know they exist). This was my workroom at the Xmas period.

We have been invited to Michael & Rita's for Christmas Day lunch really lovely to see her parents and family, all being that Beanie doesn't decide to join the festivities.

And to keep up the winter scheme here is one of my favourites: I love the bare trees in winter; what I call Rembrandt trees.

Winter is here and Christmas is 'a cumming'

2007-12-15T04:33:00.000-08:00

Winter has really arrived, the last days have been bitterly cold, one morning there was heavy frost and so I took the Jellies for a walk along the river bank here by Peperharow Road. the leaves were all rimmed with frost, and there was lots of it about, some plants had a beautiful icy cold coat. and even the river bank looked wintery it was really very beautiful, as there was some sun out, but it was cold brrrr.

nonetheless the Jellies had, as usual, a lovely time. The mud was hard frozen, which made walking a bit treacherous even with my walking boots.

But to show I am sort of getting into the mood of Christmas here is a shot of part of my work table, my usual gifts for giving away, not the beads though.

After this I must get on with my altered books I only have two more pages to do, and then must get going on the cover.

Here are a few more pages: Fred's Page and the page on Swans, not quite finished yet. A Merry Christmas to you all, we are off on Christmas Day to Michael and Rita; and Beanie-to-be.

Its about time I think

2007-12-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

Xmas is coming, and I couldn't sleep on Sunday night worrying about it all, got so bolshie I decided I didn't even want to do anything at all... Worry worry niggle niggle. As I used to say many years ago I wanted go into hibernation till it was all over.

But I gave my self a good talking to and next day sat down and made lists of what I needed, list for menus and lists of ingredients and shopping. So many list I got snowed under, had to dig myself out several times. However it is a lot clearer in my mind now. And I can go to sleep easier.

I went shopping in Guildford for John's birthday present, I am giving him 3 items for starting this new phase in his like of being over 80; will let you know after his birthday what they are, as he sometimes reads this blog. I also got myself and him new dressing gowns to go with our new slippers we got each other in Madeira. So we will be resplendid on Christmas day when we are on our own!!!

The weather has been foul and wonderful on alternative days. Here are a few pix I took along the River Wey in Guildford last week. it was truly magnificent this fir tree, as red as a flame.

Jed sniffing this gnarled old tree while we were sitting along the bank

and a wonderful pix of the sun reflected in the water although it is a bit difficult to see.

John was getting quite impatient with me as I tarried along, but I couldn't resist stopping every few steps to click on my trusty Fujifilm camera.

And to end it all here is video of the Jellies at play. This is taking

forever!!!!!
although this does need some editing towards the end. One of the things I mean to do over the winter when I have finished my 6th altered book. Have only 2 1/2 more pages to do. By half I mean I nearly have finished that page its an experiment which has taken me a lot of time and effort. All sorts of family photos that I have first turned into greyscale and then posterized them. Got some quite different and astonishing results. I hope to have all the pages done by Christmas so that I can concentrate on the cover!!! Photos will be blogged in the future. Here are just two to whet your appetite

This is it folks till next time; must go and recue my potatoes.

One more for Thanksgiving

2007-11-23T03:11:00.001-08:00

This says it all

I know it is over, and we didn't celebrate it, although coming to think of , it we did by going out for a meal, we went to the Kings Arms and Royal Hotel in the middle of Godalming (do you remember that is where Darren's family stayed prior to your wedding the Wednesday and we had meal altogether there) The hotel and pub has just been done up and newly refurbished but in the right style for a pub from circa 1600's, well not quite. Any way we didn't have turkey as thanksgiving is not a celebratory day in the UK , so John had a rib eye steak and I had the most delicious calf's liver, pink and tender. The kitchen there is very good, and we will certainly go again as it is also quite cheap.

I think I might upload one of the videos I took at Littlehampton of the Jellies, if I can find it! And here as well is one of my favourite dogs Milo, he looks so happy, the Jellies would love him, well Nellie would at least.

Jed likes to paddle, but as you see, Nellie's doesn't really like getting her feet wet! Scrapping yes, its their way of telling each other off.

This blogging is a bit of pain, I spent all morning catching up with other peoples, and doing this post. And it is now walkies time, but the weather is lovely, crispy sunny and cold for the UK, but nothing like in Portland. I really must get back to my altered book, only have the cover and 3 pages to do. One page is giving me a lot of gip but for another I have some good ideas, if only I can get at it!!! the wait if for the uploading of the video. I am so slow just like this little beastie.

Tata for now.

15 November at Bailiffscourt

2007-11-22T07:35:00.000-08:00

We set off on the 15th, just a week ago; and only now did I get around to creating a new post; as it takes me that long to write my posts.

On a beautiful sunny wintery day, not too cold and hardly any wind

for Bailiffscourt in Climping near Littlehampton,

a place the Jellies dearly love, and where they are as welcome as we are; as you can see in this pix, basking by the fire. Having two staffies together on one split lead gets us a lot comments. Bailiffscourt is a hotel that looks medieval but actually was built in 1931. It belonged to the Guinness family, they used to come to Climping for their holidays camping with their children. Then in the late 1920's Climping council was intending to redevelop the whole area with council housing. Lord Guinness countered that by buying the entire area; and his wife had the most enormous fun of building this hotel, together with her architect they scoured the country for derelict buildings no longer in use, and all sorts of items of the period.

All around the main hotel building are various other buildings in similar style. We were in this one, quite near to the hotel entrance

our bedroom door from the outside! it looks pretty authentic doesn't it.

Inside our bedroom, called Broomwood there was areally great bath room a comfortable bed, as well as tea and coffee making facilities. And even biscuits for the Jed and Nellie.

We had a truly wonderful meal, their chef is great and I am getting quite pernickety about food we are served, so often I feel disappointed but certainly not this time. I had wood pidgeon breast, something I have never had tried, and it was delicious; a really great celebration for all four of us, although Jed and Nellie had their usual food of mixed tripe and turkey & rice kibbles. Nothing fancy for them alas.

Next day another wonderful day we went our usual walking place by Littlehampton golf course by the sand dunes we were in luck the tide was out so there was a vast amount of sand in stead of the usual pebbles 3 meters wide. The Jellies love to romp on the sand and Jed even goes paddling.

Here is John with his camera

Usually the beach is quite empty but this time there were all sorts of different things on it!!Like a tractor and truck working on the pebbles. Two riders who came galloping along. I had hoped to take a little video but my card was full! And then the Jellies having fun together Nellie waiting to pounce. We walked a long way along the sea side and then we went back to the car park via the sand dune alleys, they love that even more.

After that we had a big bowl of mussels as the East Beach Cafe,that really wonderful restaurant with food as good as at Bailiffscourt, and that is saying some. Then home where we were just after four.

I was sent this really great little video which I will try to upload, but it is a windows media (TM) file so it might not work. It is proof that it was the Irish who first colonized Africa.

It did come in; so that is it! Isn't killing?

And now a happy thanksgiving to you all

Till the next time!!! Adio

Rita, Mike & Thingie

2007-11-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

Mike and Rita came last Friday all the way from Basildon. They were staying with Lidia, Rita's mum as Ratan (Dad) and Giovana(sister) had gone off to India on Wednesday to visit Ratan' oldest brother who unfortunately has Alzheimer's and Ratan wanted to visit this beloved brother who had done so much for him when Ratan was a student all those years ago. Lidia doesn't much like travelling or flying such long distances, but if she had known that they were to be upgraded maybe she might have changed her mind, nonetheless this gave Micko and Rita and Thingie ( don't think this is what they call it, but never mind) a chance to stay with Lidia as their flat in the Piper Building was let out.

They set out around 12.30 after Rita had managed getting rid of her breakfast and turned up in Peperharow Road at 2 pm. John meanwhile had taken the Jellies out and I could put the finishing touches on our meal. Wasn't sure how much Rita would be able to keep down, so did a chicken and apricot casserole, with carrots which I had sliced so finely that 1/4 of them burnt. But luckily I had some little tomatoes and rice. There wasn't much in my fridge ; Ocado was coming the day after on Friday. But the meal turned out fine and Rita felt fine, even had a second helping, I was that pleased.

I had my camera on the ready so I could document how Rita had progressed since she was last her. Here she is showing off "thingie" together with Michael.

And here is "thingie" in all its glory. They had had a scan film done, everything was hunkeydory as it should be, and they could show us the baby on the DVD. It was most interesting to see its face, and its feet in its mouth as well as a hand. But no vision of what "thingie" is going to be: boy or girl; they didn't want to know.

Just before lunch I took one more picture: and off to lunch we go.

The Jellies meanwhile took it easy while we were eating. And after the day was done so did John

In the evening I couldn't find my little camera, I looked everywhere, sitting room, bedroom kitchen, bathroom and loo, you never know where I could have put it in my absent manner. I even looked in the workroom in case I had returned it after all to its cradle although I had no recollection of doing this. But no! nowhere to be see. This went on for several days, and I got quite uptight about it. Said prayers to my guardian angels and even begged St. Anthony all to no avail, till an inner voice said, go and have another look in the sitting room, look on all the shelves, behind all the photographs (of which I have quite a number) everywhere you can think of, again nothing, till as the last resort I looked on the sides of the sofa, nothing.......till I looked on the right hand side under the cushion; this was the last resort, AND lo and be hold! there was my little fujifilm snuggled up ever so comfortably, wondering what all the commotion was about. And here I was even contemplating getting perhaps? a new camera. But all this meant that this post didn't get published till now

Tomorrow we are off to Climping near Littlehampton to celebrate our 29th wedding anniversary at Baileyscourt! Lovely hotel where the Jellies are as welcome as we are. We will be back on Friday when the weather is turning nasty. Will keep you all posted:
Hasta la vista!!!!

Hello! and Hello!

2007-11-07T03:27:00.000-08:00

Well well here I am at last and again, finally having something to say! Sorry about the long silence but things have been a little fraught lately. Hence no me. To begin with on Monday 5th of November Bon Fire Night I went to the hospital in the morning where my cast was removed. Just a reminder of what it was like 6 weeks ago.and now. Actually it doesn't look very good, but although swollen it isn't as bad as it looks. It does hurt more now, but that is because the support is gone and there is muscle wastage. I am told this will get better but that it can take up to 2 years for it to be back to what it was. Considering my feet were always my weak point I not holding my breath but will wait and see till 2009. Things are a bit odd with this blog, but never mind.

Autumn is here with the most beautiful colours especially when the sun is shining I have managed to take a few pix the few times I was out with John and the Jellies. Don't ask me what I have done here but probably it may look better as I go along. this is along our street just before I got into the car. Newlands Corner. I had hoped for some more outstanding pix, there were plenty along the drive here, but we couldn't stop as the Jellies wanted their walk and there was a fair bit of traffic on the road. This one was taken later in the afternoon and this is a sunset pix and this one even later

Meanwhile while I was incarcerated I had plenty of time to work on my altered Book "Faces", and have nearly finished it.

Here to wet your appetite are a page or two both these pages have actual embroidery work of mine!

I now have to go and feed the hordes (is that the word I want?) n.l. John and myself for lunch. Actually he really deserves a rest and so do the Jellies:-

So I will sign of for the last time as

Hopalong's updates

2007-10-19T07:54:00.000-07:00

Because I don't get about much these days I don't have a lot to report, just the boring statement that not a lot had happened in the last 3 weeks since I became Hopalong. We did go to a 007 dinner last Saturday, all in evening wear, I managed to hide my plaster leg okay, only not my crutches, but these were quite a conversation topice, and everyone rushed about getting me a chair and were careful of me. But we all had a wonderful time and I didn't fall over once; when you think the evening started with a vodka martini (with olive) "shaken not stirred". Sorry there isn't a pix of us in our finery as I forgot my camera in all the excitement of getting out of the house.

Next morning we all had a 'lie-in' even the Jellie!!

the bed was too small as neither Jed nor me are in this pix We lasted till mid day although Jed got a little agitated as his early morning walk was cancelled. They did get a good one at 12 pm.

Then on Wednesday we went to the sea side and while I stayed in the car reading my enormous book, then the Jellies & John went off into the dunes. The Jellies had a ball and even managed to catch and kill a rabbit their first!

Unfortunately our favourite seaside caff was closed so by the time they got back it was after 3pm. We went into Littlehampton itself and found of all places a Portuguese deli who had wonderful coffee and even better or favourite Madeira cake "pastel de nata" the real thing.

After that we went along east to the very end of Littlehampton, and John gave Jed & Nellie another walk and discovered this amazing restaurant it was a work of art. Took 18 month from its start till the finish, the design was based on drift wood, and it was quite fascinating, and the food was absolutely great! Welcome to EAST BEACH CAFE
"Delicious recipes from the jaw-droppingly modern cafe that has just beached in Littlehampton"Sunday Telegraph Magazine Our spectacular building, designed by Thomas Heatherwick, sits right on the beach in Littlehampton, West Sussex. The East Beach Cafe serves delicious food every day, all year round and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They have 45 seats inside, all with a great view of the sea, and 80 seats on decking outside as well as a take-away kiosk for those who prefer to eat on the beach. Unfortunately the pix doesn't do it justice.

Any way that is it from Hopalong thought I would change my image.

Further news from Hopalong

2007-10-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

Well went to hospital yesterday morning for another x-ray and to see the 'bone man', (so young they all are! )But he was pleased because the x-ray showed everything is fine, and the ligaments are still in place holding the ankle to the bones, even the broken one.

I don't have to keep my foot up in the air anymore, that was to get swelling down which as happened. So that makes life easier. no more of this.

He said he wants me to use the crutches most of the time, even though I seem to be able to walk without them for short distances, more so that I remain stable and upright, i.e. not fall over says its like having a tripod to walk about with!

As things are now I am to see him in 4 week's time on the 5th of November when the plaster comes off for another x-ray. Whether it goes on again we will see. And I'll probably will have to have physio. So more hospital visits, a great delight for John sniff sniff. As he has to fetch and bring me, no really the other way round.

That's all folks, will be posting again later on, definitely after the weekend as we are going to a 007 dinner at the King Edward VI school locally were at the moment there is a big art exhibition on, and the dinner is to wind it all up and end it.

Forgot to tell you all I have 3 pix on exhibition am very pleased they accepted them as they have 500 exhibits and had so many entries that 60% were rejected! And best of all I even sold one to date as far as I know .

PS the weather is foul, when John took the Jellies for a walk they turned around and came straight home.

Meet Hopalong aka Lyke

2007-10-04T08:03:00.000-07:00

Well I have done it again, not not really again, just done it well and good this time. Last Saturday when I was walking the Jellies along the river Wey at the end of our road, it had rained a lot and the path was quite muddy and on the way back my shoe slipped from under me, and I fell with one foot stretched out in front of me, but the other one doubled under me. I know I have lost some weight but my poor foot did not appreciate about 10 stone on it. A stone is 14 lbs so (figure it out). Still I managed to scramble up right by putting my left hand in the nettles next to the path, and stood up. It was a painful, but I was able to hobble along home. There was nothing for it as I was all alone with only the Jellies in sight. I did have my mobile along, but it would have been difficult to get help down the muddy footpath. And anyway I was home fairly soon with a swollen foot.

Back home I put ice packs on it, and ibuprofen gel and anything cold and settled back thing it would get better soon. Well next day It was still swollen, I couldn't get into a shoe, and at the nagging of Mary (to who I am really grateful) instead of waiting till Monday and going to the surgery I contacted a Dr. who sent me off to the A&E Dept of the Royal Surrey County Hospital, where after a not too long a wait, as the waiting room was full of other casualties, they took an x-ray and guess what .............................................................................. yes there was a fracture on the outside bone just above my ankle, in other words I broke it!! They put plaster on it up to my knee, and kept in over night to assess my condition next day. Thank goodness the orthopedic surgeon decided an operation wasn't necessary but I had to go into plaster up to my knee, and remain so for 6 -8 weeks.

it certainly make life rather difficult and I must rest that foot most of the day; no walkies for the Jellies who look on in puzzlement, but I do spend a lot of time with them now, read a lot of books. I must go and feed the Jellies as John is in London (again) to see to his flat. The house is a mess, and our meals are rather odd , but can do my shopping on line, bless Ocado who bring it right into the kitchen.

As a special treat June took a video with my camera, I will post it, only you'll have to look at it side ways!!! Sorry there is an error with the video, maybe just as well. It might come another time; but don't hold your breath as I get very tired hopping along

I will now go to feed the Jellies

so this is Hopalong signing off

Caitlin's birthday Celebrations

2007-09-11T03:43:00.000-07:00

On Saturday 8th of September we celebrated Caitlin' s 15th birthday which was on the 31st of August. Imagine my first grandchild being 15, almost unbelievable when I think of how she came into the world 15 years ago as such a tiny scrap of humanity. But she has grown apace and has not only always been "our miracle baby" as Fiona and I used to call her, but she has grown into such a delightful person. Intelligent, interested in so many things, especially photography, computering just to name a few. This is my favourite pix of her taken at her celebration luncheon. Could almost be her official photograph!

Because John and I had had to go to a wedding on the first Saturday after her birthday on the 31st we arranged for them to come to Godalming and I would take them all out to lunch on the o8/09 the following Sat. An added bonus was that Micko and Rita were also present, Michael being in the country and not at work.

They all arrived at the correct time of 1 pm and we first had a talk about THE birthday girl and her presents, her main present was this fantastic camera to which we had all contributed and to which she used a lot of her saved up "dosh" but also Oma's present from her sisters the walking cane was much admired by Micko. Shaun wasn't that interested. And here are Rita and Paul. Rita is feeling so much better now she can eat and enjoy her food again and has even gained some weight. We had been so worried while she was feeling so sick but now you must agree she looks very 'bonnie' and even pregnant in fact she looked so happy and radiant.

We then went off to the restaurant where I had booked: Prezzo, an Italian chain fairly new in Godalming. We had a round table for eight and the food was great. Even Shaun could enjoy it! Caitlin was to be the official photographer, some of the other guests and last but not least we three 'musketeers

We all had a stupendous meal with 2 bottles of wine as Paul doesn't drink alcohol any more, and 3 cokes, 1 sprite and innumerable bottles of mineral water. We had pre starters starters, mains and puddings, and coffee and we didn't leave till 3.30pm Went for a little walk and look-around in Godalming. A new shop had just opened selling the most gorgeous cashmere sweaters, but at £200 each, no thanks.

Then it was back to 138 Peperharow where the Jellies were awaiting and every one enjoyed the 'footie' on the telly. As you can see Jed joined them, Nellie isn't a fan.

As as a final treat and ending here is a little movie taken by Caitlin on my Fujifilm camera, hers doesn't do videos. The first shot is horrendous, but the rest is okay. just don't look too closely.

Just click on the middle it should work.

So now I am clocking off tata to you all and happy hopping

One more treat.

2007-09-05T02:24:00.000-07:00

As the video came over so well in the Jellies' birthday post I will now down load what was the first one and I think even nicer, although it could do with some editing. Something I don't seem to have enough time for to do.

So here it is:

The Jellies were 2 years old on Saturday September 1st.

2007-09-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it, the Jellies Jed and Nellie were two years old yesterday and they certainly have grown up. We celebrated the day for them with a most enormous marrow bone each. Nellie could hardly carry hers, and Jed loves to nick it, but then that gives her a chance to investigate his. They are both absolutely sure that the other's bone is the BEST. But they are very good and don't fight over them.

To celebrate their life here are a few of my favourite photos:

These were about a year old in 2006.

When they first came to live with us just weeks old in November 2005 this what they looked like:

they were always together day and night. In fact even today when they each have their own beans bags, Jed's is the biggest, as he now weighs 26 kilos!! and to think when they first came i could tuck both of them under my arms to hurry them out of door for toilet training. But even now they are still 'babies' in that John sings them to sleep every night with "my bonny lies over the ocean" (which I turn into "my Nellie lies over the ocean", the few times that I have to put them to bed. They snuggle up under their blankets as good as gold and settle down for the night.

As you can imagine we love our Jellies, but John in particular as this pix shows this is the bench they all sit on after a walk in the back woods they feel they must wash him or its their way of giving out kisses.
or when he has a coffee break. They go for a good walk every day and we make sure it is in a different place all over the county. They are allowed of the lead, able to run about, explore and sniff their "newspaper" not like a lot of dogs we meet who have to walk on the lead poor things. They are getting better and better at obeying and now walk very nicely on the pavement having become quite street wise
Bit their favourite place to walk is at the sea side, and we often go to Littlehampton on the coast where they rush about in the dunes hiding from each other, fighting like March hares, only its more play than fight; many games are enjoyed like these below:

But what I really want to share with you all is this little video that I managed to take Dec 2005:

They are two, but it takes too long to up load the two; even one may take a while but it is worth it, definitely.

I will upload the second one in a short while once I know how it is received. Saludos to you all.

Back from sunny Madeira, a lovely holiday!

2007-08-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

Here I am back from sunny Madeira, sorry it took a little while before I managed to start this log, we have been home for nearly 5 days. But didn't get back till after midnight on the 27th, exactly a week later. We had a super holiday, although we were both a bit apprehensive as to what my time share would be like; not having gone before. But need not have worried Carlos a very nice taxi man came to fetch us, and soon deposited us at the Regency Club. A journey that took less than half and hour, there are so many tunnels and new free ways built since we last came. It should be known as the tunnel island Also it seems thousands of new homes are sprawling up the hillsides. They greeted us very well, gave us the key to the studio flat and left us to get on with it. We are/were on the third floor, in a very nice oddly shaped hotel room, with the usual furniture: bed, table chairs, etc plus a sofa bed and dining table 2 chairs a very nice and spacious bathroom and a kitchenette with

everything needed in it. There also was a balcony overlooking the creche of the Savoy Hotel which towered above us. It was often filled with babies and toddlers, so it made up a little for not having a sea view like this. However we saw lots of wonderful views. We went on a day tour of the north-west of the island to Porto Moniz on the rugged north side via Riviera Brave, same side as Funchal where we stopped for coffee and saw lots of people and kids enjoying the beach, well if you could call it that!
I loved these two little girls playing ball.

We then went up to the mountains to cross over to the Paul da Sera, the highest plateau of the island, once the main crater of the volcano. We stopped for spectacular views like these all along the road were masses of agapanthus' growing wild, blue and white when I thought of my two
single ones back on my patio well words fail me.

Another really great photo I took of the cloud misting over the mountains. Am quite pleased with this one. Soon we went on arriving over Porto Moniz we had lunch there and afterwards had some time to photograph the spectacular waves breaking and sea spray as you can see it was quite spectacular and never the same; actually I missed some really wild ones.

Another day we went to visit Maria and Jose in Porta da Cruz, on the north side again we had lunch with them and spent the afternoon visiting their little house way up the mountain side. It was spic and span and kept just like my mother's home. They invited us to stay with them, but that was a bit too much I think. We went there and back by bus which took us along memory lane all sorts of places we used to visit with my mother. And it only cost 3.10€ per person one way. But the journey was 1 1/2 hours! it was great.

Another time we went to the market in Funchal, John wanted to see the fish market. I found I couldn't cope with these poor creatures all lining the wet counters dead. It was too much carnage for me thee was even a tray with only eyeballs, that did it for me.

these last ones are espada fish who live so deep in the ocean that they have never even brought one up alive. They are fished at night with little fishing boats with a lantern in the stern.

So I went off to the flower part and the fruit and veg area and bought 3 orchid roots, a lovely pink one, a yellow one and a red one. Optimistically thinking I could grow them back home. In sunny Madeira anything is possible. But back here I wonder if it is possible.

On our last day but one we went up to Monte in the cable car; its a lovely village/small town overlooking Funchal bay. Some people even go back on the toboggans. Two chaps with boater hats will propel you down the mountainside in a basket on wooden runners. Although tempted we both had done it so opted out and
went back by cable. Well that is it, we had a lovely time, visited two super museums, one a photography museum, a must for any one interested in photographs and history. It was started by the family Vicente 5 generations of them who took all the worthies of Madeira. There are lovely albums to browse through and a good display of cameras and photographic equipment. The other museum was all about the history and development Of Madeira. Up shot is: I won't sell my time share and certainly we will go back as soon as we are able. The Jellies were eagerly awaiting us everyday. and no Nellie did not go white with worry in the meantime!!!

So this is goodbye and so long, speak to you soon

Shaun's Adventure on the River Wey July 2007

2007-08-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

Shaun came to stay with us for a couple of nights on the 30th by himself as Caitlin was away on a boating trip with some school friends. She was gone for a week and so we had Shaun staying with us. It was great as Grandpa John decided that he should teach Shaun to drive a narrow boat. In order to do this he rented one for the day on the 30th. And we asked June and Paul Luck to come along as well as I wasn't really prepared to do the locks, not being very good at that etc. June and I did the food while the men did the driving.
The Jellies of course came as well.
Shaun took a few photos in the beginning with my camera, he is quite good at it as these will show: at first some other friends said they'd like to come as well, but there was no room on the boat! then some decided to go their way

this is a brilliant pix, well done Shaun I think I will nominate you as official blog photographer, look at this one

At first Shaun was a bit apprehensive 'cause he worried about the boat overturning. But we all assured him that a metal narrow boat could not do this. And pretty soon he was more at home especially after John and Paul showed him the ropes. Here are Skipper 1 and Skipper 2, soon Shaun was so good at it that John and Paul could take a coffee break although he found it a bit hairy especially when the riverbanks came too close!

Here is the skipper and his crewJed being Jed was in on things from the beginning.We all had a good time having coffee and all the lovely food brought along. John had ordered 2 plates of Hector's overlarge chips with his home made mayonnaise yum yum.

All too soon it was time to turn around and make back to the boathouse as we had to be there by 5.30 pm But before that there was the lock to be negotiated, and lo and behold a lock-pixy to help with this hard work.

When we finally got back there was a small flotilla of friends to wave us farewell. A super time on the river on a sunny summers day was enjoyed by all.

A big thank to Grandpa John and his crew

oh yes a sad thing this little fella was found inside my Kirby when the Kirby man came to maintain my machine; unfortunately he had not survived. How he got there the Lord only knows, I don't remember hoovering him up.

Phee I will now sign off and go to sunny Madeira for a week

More Birthday celebrations, but don't hold your breath

2007-08-10T07:17:00.000-07:00

This may take a while, am very busy at the moment upgrading the Wey Valley Workshop, one of my tri-annual (if such a word exists) jobs. Every time a new term rolls around or is about to there is upgrading to be done. And as usual it takes longer than I think. Also all sorts of mysterious things seem to happen. However I was able finally put some new items in, and also more photographs. I love putting in animated clip art and am afraid that it may be a bit over the top at times.However this post is about the continued birthday celebrations. John had told me we would go off somewhere the next weekend after my birthday, and that the Jellies had to go into kennels again. I was quite unhappy about this until I realised that Nellie just loved the place and everyone there. Jed, as his usual laid back person probably took it in his stride. I was also told that I couldn't take an overnight bag, everything had to go into my handbag. I am getting ever so good at minimalist luggage. Off we went by train to London first class at that; and then a taxi from Waterloo. By this time I had some suspicions, thinking that perhaps Fred would be there. We arrived at Rules one of our favourite restaurants. Were taken upstairs to a private room with on the door.And when the door opened there were about 13 people all singing happily SURPRISE: my sister Maryse and David, Paul and Shaun, unfortunately Caitlin and Fiona were unable to come as Caitlin was going off on her boat trip, Fred was there as I had thought grinning all over his face, you know what he is like. Friends like the Lucks, Mary Mac. Sally and Eric; even John's son Philip whom I was very pleased to see. And of course Michael was away working, and sadly Rita was still feeling unwell. but we all had lots of this to drink and a wonderful meal. There were speeches laughter and lots of talk and the afternoon slipped away. Before I could it all in it was all over, but not before we were given a a tour of Rules; and we were told that the room we were in was where Edward VII used to entertain Lily Langtry and others. It had the advantage that he could enter through a secret entrance without having to go through the main dining rooms. Quite useful that I should think. Here is a rogues? gallery:

All my good friends and family where there what a celebration.

After that John took me to my favourite hotel The Goring, the one with almost life size sheep, there was one in our room plus a bottle of champagne on ice which we really couldn't face that evening. So we had it next day for lunch but before and after a lovely breakfast, not too heavy there was roast beef on the menu we went for a walk in St. James Park, in walking distance from the hotel. It was a lovely day and there were hundreds of people about mainly Japanese I think, they were all awaiting the changing of the guard and we watched the guards marching in their splendid uniforms. After a wonderful lunch which was lubricated with the champagne and ended with a birthday candle on my dessert we caught the train back to Godalming, dashed home to change in our walking and dog proof clothes went to collect the Jellies from their 'holiday home'

They of course were overjoyed to see us and to go for a walk even though it was after 4 pm.

What a wonderful celebration John gave me the 'sweetie'. And as a surprise this was awaiting on the patio. What a a weekend.

Update on Holland trip, and my 75th.

2007-07-27T08:34:00.000-07:00

Well here we are after about a week or so. We left on the 20th of July from Guildford Station in the pouring rain for the Netherlandsto celebrate my sister's 5oth wedding anniversary and my 75th birthday.

And we arrived in Holland in wonderful sunshine. Imagine. John and I went to our hotel Bel Air near Jolijn's flat but were not allowed to visit her as we were a surprise for my nieces and nephew, they were not to know we were in the country till Saturday evening when we all met up for a very special dinner. More about this later.

John and I therefore went off on our own to a super fish restaurant where we had a lovely meal, fish of course.

Next morning we went into town centre which neither of us knew very well and wondered about on the Lange Voorhout where se saw this mum and her baby

looking a bit apprehensive. These were part of a sculpture exhibition and they were scooters.

We wandered about and saw quite a bit of the Hague and especially the museum Mauritshuis, were we spend most of the morning looking at all the wonderful paintings from Holland's Golden Age.

here is John in front of het Maurits Huis, and another view of the Hague's inner city where the seat of government is:

We got back to the hotel at about 3pm to meet up with Maryse. At about 5pm we set of to this special restaurant to which Jolijn had invited us. It was in a lovely old house, and we were led through corridor after corridor all lined with cases of champagne. Good start we thought. We were led into a dining room with a large table bereft of any settings, through a kitchen into the room where the feast was to be. My brother, sister-in-law and Fred soon also arrived and we waited till the v Bs arrived in order to surprise them, although Jolijn of course knew we were there. And then he fun began, the chef welcomed us all and told us what the menu of 4 courses was to be, and then we are invited to select the course we would like to cook. Yes to cook, I have never been to a dinner party in a restaurant were I had to cook my own dinner. But a lot of fun was had by all and as there were about 12-14 cooks who each chose a course it wasn't too onerous, we even had aprons and chef hats. And I even learnt how to chop chives in restaurant style. Only you need very sharp pointed knives, the chef even said if I did this for a week or so I would soon be proficient. The meal was great, lots of lovely wine, laughter and jokes as well as superb food. To think all cooked by us.

As it was also my birthday my sisters gave me a special birthday present: a walking stick with about 12 little strips of special dates of my life on it. I wondered if they felt I needed this in particular at this time in my life. Also it wasn't easy to get it back to the UK as I was told at the check-in desk that I wouldn't be allowed to go on board with it, and as it was too long to fit in the suitcase I was advised they might let me on if I walked as if I needed it, so I practised all the way to the plane. It must of worked as nothing was said and I got it home okay.

Before that on Sunday we mooched about again in the Hague at the flea and antiques' market, and in the morning we went to Scheveningen, to the sea side and we walked through this magnificent hotel, pure 1900, we kept expecting elegant Edwardian ladies in large hats sitting about having tea. But alas they were all gone so we walked on to the promenade, where thousand of dutch people were enjoying themself in the sunshine or line dancing.

Next day we took the train to Bussum to my brother's house were we stayed for 2 days. It rained a lot but as well in the evening the sun came out and we could enjoy my sis-in-law's wonderful garden. Here are a few pix to show you. wonderful agapanthus, and a white one at that, my niece Laurentine and another view of the garden
we in particular liked the Lutchen's seat.
Alas the 5 days came to an end on Wednesday when we flew home, arrived about 3.30 pm in time to fetch the Jellies from their kennels. And were they overjoyed to see us, we were licked to an inch of our livesit appeared though they had been quite happy in the kennels. Which is lucky as they will be going pretty soon again.
Well that is it will continue on Monday. So bye bye for now.

Well, well its no longer boohoo, rather hip hip

2007-07-16T07:32:00.000-07:00

Actually I don't want to hooray too much as I have lost all faith in this Mesh. But to update it finally was returned to me on the 10th July, Louise' s birthday. Maybe it was a present from her to me via the Mesh people. No, I think it was because of the 2nd stinking letter I sent to the manager which really gave results. They then bend over backwards to get the Mesh back to me. They even paid extra for the courier to deliver before 10 am. And it did come, well 10 past 10. So this is what arrived:

June hurried over to help me after I unpacked it, they even included the new wireless keyboard. But that also caused problems, it took ages and another call to the repair centre at base. Luckily Kumar who had been finally in charge and who had expedited everything, was available after some throwing about of weight and he talked us through it. Hopefully we will be able to do the same when the batteries run out and new ones replaced. But at June's prompting everything we did was written down in my little book.

It is now nearly a week and it is behaving itself. I have installed several of my programs, one of the first was AOL so we could get back on the Internet. After that my new Microsoft Office 2007 which is really great although it has taken me some time on a learning curve. It is so brilliant that it takes me twice as long as I have to find where everything is. Its quite different to Microsoft XP Office, but no doubt like XP itself after a while I will have no more problems; it should be rather intuitive.

So I will sign off like this and keeping my fingers crossed.

Not much news, Boo Hoo.

2007-06-10T03:01:00.001-07:00

Its been a week again, and as the title says there is not much news, have been waiting all week for news of the Mesh, when it will come home. Finally by Wednesday I managed to contact the repair centre and the swore it was being seen to right then by the engineer. Was supposed to be finished by friday and they would let me know when the courier would deliver. I asked if that could be after Friday as I had a hospital appointment and John had to go to London, to see his new tenant, yes a lovely girl who will be perfect. She loves the flat and is so enthusiast, and best of all she will be moving in next weekend.

As to the Mesh there has been no news as yet, so tomorrow I will be on the phone again, as I don't think in this case "no news is good news". I have meanwhile also written off a blast to Mesh who had the nerve to send an email advertising their new products; so I told them what I thought of their product and their customer services. Don't suppose it will help Boo Hoo.

Thats it for the moment.

Well back again after the most horrible weather here

2007-06-02T06:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long silence, but have been extremely busy. I had two sets of american visitors, both Bryn Mawr friends. One of them, Anne: she was my elephant auntie at College, and she has been my friend for 54 years, the other one Carla friends for 67 years. We met when I was 8 and she was 7 1/2, at Northlands, our english school in Argentina; when I was asked to look after her. She had just arrived from the Netherlands and her english was non existant. Mine wasn't much better but I could state: please, thank you and may I be excused. This latter phrase was of great importance. We have been friends ever since, went through College at Bryn Mawr together; Carla selected that for us as she was then in the US and could look around. I stayed at her parent's home in New Rochelle during the holidays, I was her bridesmaid at her wedding. And we remained firm friends in spite of her leaving me behind at BMC while she embarked on married life. All these years we have remained in touch mostly by phone, latterly by email very few times by snail-mail; with some occasional visits as well. When ever we were in touch we just took up our sentences and conversation where we had left off.

so here we are 67 years years hence; inside we feel no change at all, but outside I'd say: we did age a little ?

After an extremely wet bank holiday, with John away in London for 3 days on the trot showing people around at his flat in Clapham we went off on Tuesday to visit Christina who had made 12 pots of marmalade for me in January. They had been awaiting collection so we went to Long Compton where she lives to gather them in, and to take her out to lunch at her local pub. Of course the Jellies came along too, they behaved impeccably although Nellie was pretty smellie after having rolled in something unspeakable. We had a lovely lunch, John and the Jellies a nice walk in unfamiliar surroundings and we didn't get home till almost 9 o/c. I did take my camera but the only pix I took were these two:

Since then I have been very busy creating a blog for John about his properties in Clapham to show his prospective tenants. It took me and afternoon and half a morning refining. It was however a great learning curve, and I discovered quite a few new things about blogging. The address is www.johnedwinthorpe.blogspot.com have a visit and a look-see. Bye for now till the next time.

Mesh Saga and a visit to the Seaside

2007-05-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

Well here we go, an update on the Mesh Saga, hopefully one of the last except for my jubilantly announcing the return of it fully restored. I should be so lucky, and "certainly am not holding my breath" in anticipation. The yellow label for returning it back to base turned up on Saturday with a letter of instructions. It did state that if I didn't have the original box to make sure that it was packaged with suitable materials to adequately protect it in Transit.

After I had tried in vain to get a box big enough I packed it first with a layer or two of bubble wrap, then a layer of corrugated packing and finally with brown parcel paper, sticking each layer down with miles of tape , and finally outside one with this tape shouting: FRAGILE all over.

So now its out of my hands the courier is coming on Wednesday 23rd, I did tell them I didn't have a box, and they said not to worry they might provide one. Well we'll see. Once it arrives it was stated that the turn around time is 5 days, but considering I don't suppose they will get it till Thursday and there is a Bank holiday Monday at the weekend I don't expect it back till late next week. Fingers crossed.

After all this gloom and misery on the next really lovely sunny day we decided to go to the seaside. The Jellies love to go there and John loves going in the Stag, so here we are: us in the front and the Jellies in the back.

They are getting used to travelling this way,

in particular Jed who loves to be slightly adventurous;

they are however firmly attached to a special split lead held by me. But you can imagine the impact they make as we travel along. We had a lovely time at the beach, the tide was out and there were miles and miles of sand for them to rush about in. In the dunes there were quite a few "meerkats" those blokes who like to sun themselfs in the nude. The Jellies love to rush into their nest and lick them all over. Don't think the meerkats are too happy, but that is the chance they have to take.

Right this is it, am signing off, have to go and feed the Jellies and also get our dinner ready, we are having roast chicken, recipe of Jamie Oliver, it has a lemon pushed up its bum. He says this is his favourite way of cooking a chicken so I thought I would give it a try.

Continuation of the Mesh Saga

2007-05-18T02:38:00.000-07:00

the most "unfriendly one"

Latest update, it is now 18th of May:

I have just been on to Mesh and finally got the correct phone# and spoke to a proper english speaking bod, who had all the details of what happened at his finger tips, well on his screen, he knew exactly what had happened and on what date and intimated that they would certainly put things right back at their repair centre.

He also assured me that the labels had been sent on Wednesday and I should have them today or tomorrow. Advised me to pack the tower as firmly as possible with tape and bubblewrap and corrugated paper something I which I have done. I must say he sounded very reasuring and has somewhat restored (slightly) my faith in them. But only slightly; and am not at all sure if I go for them again. And here was about to write a real blast of a letter to the managing director about my complaints. I might still do that if necessary! But have taken Mary's comment on board re this. Although I was also going to send a copy of this letter to the ComputerActive magazine who might look into it and get them to pull their "stoppers out". They are good at that, and as they were the ones on whose recommendation I purchased the Mesh I feel they should.

Thats it for now, what this space!

The unbelievable Saga of Mesh

2007-05-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Well here we go again, hopefully no fax arrives as then I get cut off and lose everything I have just written. Any way after the engineer left with the "moribund" motherboard I eagerly awaited notification as to when he would return, that took another two weeks with a multitude of phone calls. When you call a big company in the UK you get: "your call is important to us" and a lot of music to entertain you while you await for someone to come and talk to you. Also many of theoperators are Indian whose english isn't of the best, or maybe it is my fault but I find them difficult to understand and have to ask them to repeat themselves several times. And the one time when I did get and english bod he stammered so badly that it was almost worse.

I was assured that they hadn't forgotten and that the order would go out any minute. This took nearly 3 weeks till the engineer came again, by now Warren & I are old friends and as you all can imagine, I welcomed him with open arms. June also came as soon as Ellie her poodle returned from the hairdresser. Meanwhile Warren opened the box in which all the new parts had come. This comes sealed and he can only open it in front of the customer. He soon had the PC open, took out all the old parts except the hard drive, for which I was relieved as I had been unable to copy the iTunes I had on it. And so he went to work, only found that the CPU processor wasn't included and nothing would work. Can you believe this? I can't, I was completely gobsmacked, shell-shocked and speechless. Warren suggested that we contact Mesh immediately which June very kindly did for me as I was unable to cope. At best I'm not too good anyway on the phone. After a lot of explaining and to-ing and fro-ing they stated that it would be best and quickest to send the PC back to base so they can sort it out. I wasn't too happy about this especially as I no longer have the box it came in, having thought that in view of having a on-site warranty for 2 years it would be unecessary. It never is. Moral of the story: keep the box what ever you do even if you have to under the bed.

So now I am awaiting the labels, must pack the tower in the box I managed to scrounge. They did say that upon receiving the PC it would take a 5 days turnabout. Do I believe that or not?

Well what am I to do. If I had opted to wait for Warren again, it probably would be a further 3 weeks with no guarantee that the right components would turn up.

One thing I am quite sure of, it will be a long time before I buy a Mesh again. And am thinking of writing a blast and sending it to the Managing Director. To let him know my love affair with Mesh is over.

It will be a Dell next time.

Shaun's celebrations for his 12th

2007-05-10T07:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry Guys

that it has been such a while but am still struggling with the Mesh breakdown. I took masses of photos on Sunday 6th when we were up in St Albans to celebrate Shaun's 12th birthday. We set off quite in time to arrive at 12 o'clock having fitted in a walk for the Jellies on the way. The place we chose was crawling with dog walkers and their pooches, so the Jellies had a good time meeting new friends. Nellie also jumped up at me which I didn't appreciate as I was wearing cream trousers. Not a good choice when walking dogs. But luckily we have had very little rain so it wasn't yet muddy.

Anyway we had nearly arrived at 15 Selby Avenue when my phone rang and it was Paul wanting to know where we were. Laughter when I told him in Chiswell Green, as it turned out they were much further away from visiting Darra where they been on Saturday. So John took the Jellies for another run in a field south of the cathedral and soon we were on our way, arriving almost simultaneously at #15. Oh for the joys of mobiles.

Shaun looked and acted very grown up, never queried about presents, not like yester years. His main present had been a basketball stand and net, and he and Caitlin were ever so good at playing basketball. I have a nice little video clip but can't post this on the blog, but will work on that in the future. He is very much into basket ball and his other present from his Opa and Oma as well as from the Demetre clan was Laker team out fit, shorts and top plus a pennant. Unfortunately the shorts are for the 'away' kit and not for the 'home' team. When louise and I purchased these did we know that there was such a thing? Nobody told us at the sports shop; but Shaun knew alright. hopefully we can get the 'home' shorts to him soon. But on the whole he is very pleased with it all, especially as it is Bryant's top his favourite player on the Laker team. For those who are not in the know:the Laker team is the Los Angeles basketball team. And as usual Shaun knows everything that is to be known about basketball and especially this team; just as he does about football. he is hoping that he might be selected for the school basketball team next September, hence all the practising.

here is Shaun having his birthday cake, a donut with a candle on. actually he had TWO donuts. We had a lovely lunch which was much enjoyed by everyone.

And after that we went to the park with the Jellies who ran about after the ball or running up to those people brave enough to sit down on the ground and licked them all over. Luckily most people fall in love with them and don't seem to mind.

And here are Caitlin and Oma signing off.

Till the next time.

Glorious spring

2007-04-30T03:42:00.000-07:00

It really is glorious - we have had nearly seven weeks without rain, and everything has sprouted. Most trees are wearing a splendid mantle of fresh green leaves.

The bluebells are rampant in our woods behind the house and everywhere else in the woods around. The scent is overpowering especially in the evening, and early morning. In fact the scent from blossoms everywhere is magical. Wish we could bottle it.

The Jellies just love running through the sun-dappled wood.

The wisteria was better than ever this year, and I took the Jellies out one midday, and got some really beautiful shots of a wisteria spilling over a garden wall along the River Wey. It was a cloudy afternoon but the pix are great. They are easily my most favourites of the early spring flowers.

Peperharow saga continues.

2007-04-27T06:27:00.000-07:00

Well the carpets have been cleaned and every thing is back in its place bar a few items. I couldn't quite remember where I had put them; and some of the surfaces like the fireplace mantle need dusting. I did wash all my glasses and glass animals, they hadn't been done in years. Are back now on their shelf and don't they look sparkly. John just has to replace the lamps which at present are on top of our wardrobe in the bedroom. I suppose all the upheaval was worth it, and am feeling quite virtuous with our massive spring clean. All though the Jellies are doing they best to turn it back to the old filthy place. Exclamation mark = E M

I have also commenced in tidying up my workroom; as I wrote earlier Louise's Stop & Crop really motivated me. It needed it: see pix

Have tidied the top off my architect's chest of drawers,

as well as the first drawer and was able to put all my stamps and other equipment as well as special papers, sketch books etc. in it. Found ever so much stuff that I vaguely knew I had, as well as a lot I had forgotten. E M. So am getting ready for Altered Book # 6. Having sold # 5 I can't wait.

To be continued a.s.a.p: will tell you all about our most beautiful spring. Haven't had any rain in 7 weeks the gardens need it but the spring flowers, blossoms and fresh new leaves couldn't be better.......................................

Horrendous doings at Flat 1

2007-04-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

Horrific is the word. Immediately after I got back, and I was getting the things ready for Ramster I needed to print out the items I was going to take found instead my HP printer refused to do anything, it just sat there, connected to the power and to the Mesh. But it kept telling cheerfully that it was not connected. I felt in a kicking mood pretty soon after. My good friend June, my guru came over on Saturday and even she couldn't get it to work, and if she can't - well there is no hope. We literally tried everything. And meanwhile I was unable to get onto AOL, there I kept getting the message that AOL needed to download some files, and that I would then have to restart the PC. This I did several times and each time I got the same message. It wasn't AOL as John downstairs had no such problem, and neither did I on 'the old faithful' my Mesh from 5 years ago. We also found I was unable to burn any CDs and several weird and wonderful message kept appearing. Finally we decided I had better contact Mesh as I have a 2 year warranty on site. At first they told us to disconnect the power to the hardrive, and this meant going inside the PC. June very bravely did this, but nothing happend so the Mesh people decided an engineer's visit was the answer. I was called fairly soon after to tell me that he would come on Thursday. This meant staying at home close by the Mesh all day, and ..............................

to cut a long tale short he didn't come. They had assured me that the engineers will take as long as it takes although the working hours are from 9 - 6pm. Mike and Rita came for a visit and as my kitchen was out of commission(more about this later) we had to go out to eat. We left the house at 19.30 as he still had not come. Bummer.

Next day however I was told he would definitely arrive, and he did at 12 pm, John just was taking the Jellies out for a walk and June was on her way here. He worked for nearly an hour and half, finally decided to put in a new motherboard only to find that the brand new one (we watched him unpack it from its cardboard box and plastic cover) didn't work at all and as he put it was D.O.A. All that time wasted, as he will have to come back again with yet another one. He thought possibly by Friday, but as I haven't heard yet I rather doubt it. We will see.

The Jellies are barking for their supper, so must go. To be continued........

Here I am, back from my travels.

2007-04-20T06:46:00.001-07:00

Its a week since I returned from my stay with the Demetre clan, I had a really super time, I hadn't realised how stressed I had become before leaving, so it was great to be there. On the way over BA surprised me with upgrading me to Club Class, a pity they didn't do it on the return but I now know that I can travel quite well in Worldtraveller Plus, a bonus.

The Friday after my arrival we flew to Portland as Darren and Louise were going to visit the new house to talk to painters and floor men, so I got to see it once again I feel it has great potential, does need things doing to it, like a new kitchen, but I have the feeling that Darren can't wait to get stuck in. We also visited the new school, within walking distance, its a wonderful school with lots of facilities. Every child must learn a musical instrument starting with the recorder. Owen is already playing the piano and learning to read music. We went bowling, something I haven't done for nearly 50 years but much to my surprise I managed strike! Still all the others including Owen beat me and Morgan. But it was fun.

On Sunday 1st of April we celebrated Owen's 8th birthday by going to the Lego Convention which just happened to be in Portland. It was teeming children and grownups, many of the latter had made the most amazing and fantastic models.

The grandchildren have grown apace, and it was delight to be with them. Owen can read for himself and Morgan is beginning to, quite a feat at 5 1/2. Colouring and drawing is a favourite pastime.

Since I have been back my new (Oct 2007)Mesh PC went awol and I have been waiting for the engineer since last Thursday, it is now half way through Monday and he still hasn't come. Also John decided that all the carpets in Flat 2 need to be cleaned which was a major amount of work getting all the furniture and misc. objects removed.

It took us all Sunday cleaning all the skirting boards, windows and window sills. Lots of things found their way to my workroom which I was intending to tidy up and sort out, having been inspired by Louise's Stop and Crop workroom. As you can see it didn't come to anything, but I am still motivated.

I never knew I was such a lousy housewife! Shame on me.

To be continued....................................

My Altered Book Angels & Poppies

2007-03-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

Phew, I have finally done it, by the skin of my teeth and finished my altered book that I have to have ready before I leave on Wednesday as I only have 3 days after my return on the 12th, everything has to be in by Sunday 15th or latest Monday 16th. Since I don't like to be in my workroom on Sundays I thought I might just as well aim for the 15th. But although I said I have finished, there are always the last little things that must be tidied up. Things have a manner of unsticking themselves, or the pages don't seem to line up. This means cutting and chopping. Only, if I am not careful the book will end up even smaller, and that won't do.

So here it is my Angels & Poppies book.

It is the 5th I have done, the first two I made for an In Stitches exhibition and sold them immediately. Made me think that perhaps I didn't price it right. The third one called "Book of Flowers" was also sold for more of course; this was ar Ramster Embroidery Exhibition in 2005. My 4th, "Dragons & Butterflies" for the Wey Valley Workshop Exhibition last year, this didn't sell, maybe I asked too much? but am very glad I didn't because there is such a lot of myself and my family in it. Especially the grandchildren.

Big news: I did sell the Angels & Poppies last Friday 20th. When John and I arrived at the private view at Ramster Miranda Gunn (organiser) came and told me she had sold one of my items; the very first that went. I think she was just as pleased and thrilled as I was when I saw the red dot on the label. Of course I had another look and was quite surprised at how good it was, had forgotten that, or perhaps I had been too much on top of it and too stressed about it before leaving for LA. Am now planning the next one, and that will be even more in price.

This book is about Angels: I received so many beautiful Christmas cards that I was quite inspired. And the poppies came from a photograph I had taken the previous summer. And that was with my old camera. My new camera is brilliant takes much better photos, so hopefully I will have lots of great ones for book # 6.

So watch this space.

No, first I will have to go to South Pasadena and see Owen and Morgan before I start another.

The ill wind did blow good.

2007-03-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

In my last post I wrote that I had trouble with my camera, it only took the two pix that I posted, all the others had disappeared. At first I thought it was battery problems, but when I had a moment on Wednesday morn to try and sort it out by putting in 2 new batteries and trying to take another picture of my Camellia what had grown fantastically it wouldn't take a pix at all. So off I tooled to the London Camera Shop in Guildford where I was told that it probably would have to be sent away to be fixed as it wasn't battery problems. This was a no-no as I was leaving for LA in a fortnight and it definitely wouldn't be back, and would over £90. When he heard that it had to fixed over a year ago - a new motherboard. The man said that it might be better to think of getting a new one. Lo and behold there was a brand new little camera just in the day before, and only £129.00 When I say little I mean little, not much bigger than a credit card, it fits ever so well in my hand and in my pocket. I did have the fleeting thought of trying to get one in LA or at the duty-free as the £ is so strong, but but thought the better of that. It comes with a guarantee so anything goes wrong I can toddle off to the camerashop in Guildford, much easier.

It comes with everything you need, a bigger battery, one of the square ones; and it charges up in a cradle. Have taken a few pix which I think are great. here is one. I am also adding one of our daffodils for Fred, as he said they don't have any in NY.

but even better is this of my Camellia. Hope you will like them. I have a lot to learn about this mini camera, but will take the instruction book to read on the plane. I have 9-10 hours and should get somewhere.

Tomorrow Sunday we are going to Mike & Rita's for mothering Sunday. Will tell you all about. I have a card already from Paul.

Will continue soon I hope, but my Altered Book still isn't finished and that had priority at the moment.

Our Visit to Greenpeace

2007-03-14T04:17:00.000-07:00

Well, we had to get up at 6 am in order to leave the house at the crack of dawn, at 8 am. That for me is the crack. We managed our usual routine: walkup hill for John and Jellies, washing, 4 breakfasts and were in the car by 7.45 equipped with dog stuff, walking boots and cameras. John had primed the TomTom to take us to Canary Wharf where the greenpeach ship was moored. To our surprise we were directed to the M25 going westwards, but after Heathrow we were sent onto A4 and through town past the Museums, Harrods full of spring clothing. It seems as if beige is THE colour this season. Ugh. Then through Picadilly past Fortnum and Mason and then we were directed towards the river, past the Tower and lo and behold we arrived half an hour early which gave us the oportunity to find a parking space; not easy even though it was Sunday, everywhere double yellow lines. John decided that we should take the Jellies with us and tie them up at the railings by the Greenpeace tent. They were a great hit, all the young people who work with Greenpeace just loved them and made a tremedous fuss of them. They just lapped it up and didn't mind too much when we left them there to go and see the Arctic Sunrise, one of the Greenpeace ships.

Two very nice young and enthusiastic girls took us all over the ship. She is a 35 year old ex-seal hunter, and pretty basic as far as luxuries went, but with all the equipment necessary for hunting whalers and causing trouble for rainforest choppers and police who try to stop the Arctic Sunrise like when it were up in Scotland blockading the nuclear sub. base. There is a lot of hoo ha going on about replacing the Trident missiles, something that will cost approx. £25bn a sum too large for us to take in, but Tony Blair has no trouble with that. He is forcing it through Parliament as fast as possible. Quite a few of his back benchers won't vote with him, two or three ministers have resigned, the Lib Dems will vote against, but it is expected that even so he will get it through with the help of the Conservatives. They of course will vote for it as it means a lot work and sales etc. But why we need to be lumbered with acquiring these missiles and subs when anyone who has any 'nouse' will realise that we could never use them. And don't give me that these are sophisticated missiles that can target undergound targets and such.

Any way Greenpeace is demonstrating today out side Parliament both at lunch time and at 6pm. Not that Tony Blair and his lot will take much notice of what the people want or think.

The rest of the day we took the Jellies for their daily walk in Battersea Park. Great for them as it was a lovely spring morning and there were loads of walkers with dogs about as well as children riding about on reclining tricyles. These looked great I wouldn't mind having a go on one some day. The Jellies had a lot of socialising and running about. After that we went to our favourite restaurant The Ghurka Diner opposite Du Cane Court for a meal . We've been there often whenever John is letting out Du Cane appartment. They certainly remembered us and greeted us with open arms so to speak. After a super meal, Indian type but not so spicy, in fact much more delicate, we went home and arrived there about 4pm just in time for Jed&Nellie's meal. We were so full we didn't have anything that evening. It was a great day.

8th day finally

2007-03-10T09:21:00.000-08:00

About time that I posted some more news about us. There seemed very little to report, not like Louise, but then she leeds (or is it leads?) such a busy life with her twosome.

I think here Spring has finally sprung, the daffodils are out all over the place some times too much of a good thing for me, all that yellow. But the magnolia next door is full of buds and flowers; and my camelia, in a pot which I was given last year by the In Stitches members as a thank you for what they said was my hard work, something I was not aware of at all. Any way my camelia is in full bloom after John put the put on the patio table and I was able to take a few pix. I even managed to capture a busy bee gathering honey and pollen.

Today we went out with the Jellies for their daily walk and Nellie disappeared once or twice. She roams far and wide, but after whistling for her she will always return. When we got to place where we had to turn back she was no where to be seen. A lot of whistling from me and from John, then my mobile phone rang; no she hasn't learnt to use that yet although I wouldn't put it past her, but someone had found her and contacted me to say that she had been chasing a fox right into their farm yard and that they had her. And to think we are not allow to "hunt foxes with dogs". But was I glad that I had their ID disks made with both our landline phone and my mobile # for Nellie, Jed's has John mobile # on it but he always comes back every now to see where we are. Much more the sort of dog you like to take for a walk. And was SO glad I had taken my mobile.

This is all for today. We are off to London tomorrow to visit the Greenpeace ship at Canary Wharf. An early start for us: 8 am off. I'll take my camera. So watch this space.

Just a post script

2007-03-03T02:28:00.000-08:00

We are now back again and there is not much to report, the Jellies though are back to their usual routine and are basking in the sun in the front room. They are great sun worshippers. But I thought you might like some more pictures of our holiday. It really looks it was a boating holiday, but it wasn't, much more beach holiday specially for the Jellies.

At the moment I am very busy with finishing my Altered Book (the 5th) Angels and Poppies which has to be finished by the 26th as I am leaving on the 28th for S. Pasadena for my annual visit to the grandchildren. I return on the 12th of April and it all has to be in by the 15th of April for the exhibition at Ramster. .

This was my first.

So I will leave you now

Our holiday in Hampshire

2007-02-28T02:22:00.000-08:00

Here we are back home again for the second day. I only found out how to post on the blog site on Sunday and we didn't have much time as we had to go to the beach for the last time. We went to Studland Bay on the Isle of Purbeck, look it up on a map, its a wonderful bay with the sand sweeping along for miles. There were lots of people and dogs about so the Jellies had a wonderful time running and playing. We spent some time sitting at the dunes reading but there was so much going on that didn't get much reading done. This is on upon return from Studland taken from the ferry, you can see the bay in the background.

We also went to Wareham to collect John's laptop which has wireless fitted so we could us it in the hotel. But we only got it back on Saturday. Went for a walk along the river bank, it was pretty muddy and the weather was so so. But as usual the Jellies had a wonderful day as they were with us all the time.

Here is Nellie along the path.

Here is my most favourite photo of them all!!

John & Jed out side our hotel

our days at Mudeford

2007-02-25T00:16:00.000-08:00

We arrived here on Tuesday last after loading up the car almost like a furniture van; the Jellies need a lot of stuff!!! John and I had our own as well of course. Thanks to the TomTom we arrived without any mishap, and were soon esconsed ? in our, what was to be for nearly a week, home. The Jellies' bed was established by the radiator much to their satisfaction, and while John took them exploring I unpacked everything. We are in a complex of little bungalows, well really rooms right at the end in #63. The Jellies love the garden which borders on the seshore, and when the tide is out there is even a small island to explore. Only there was a lot of mud about but Nellie just flew across being so much lighter in weight, Jed poor soul got stuck inm the mud and gave up. But he loves to look out across the sound, I have a super photo of him watching the wind surfers. Unfortunately its still in the camera and as I am on the hotel PC I can't get at it.

However this is the only one I can get. The sunsets weren't quite like this. The first day here was beautiful and we found a wonderful beach whrre the Jellies had the time of their lives. Racing up and down, meeting other dogs;there were a lot of them about as well as children as it was half term here in Hampshire. Unfortunately the following days we had a lot of rain and bad weather, but we managed to go on a "puffer" ride, infact we even saw Thomas the Tank Engine and met up with the Fat Controller who was the right size. The Jellies weren't that impressed though. But they loved the train ride as they were even allowed to sit on the seats. Once we got to Swanage via Corfe Castle, which loomed up above us as we chuffed along, there was another wonderful beach for them with plenty of canine friends. In fact this holiday seems to be a lot of beach work. I find them a bit tiring on the feet though but the Jellies love it.

I took me till today to figure out how to add to my blog, sorry but then not much happens to us and to the Jellies. The food is very good at the hotel, but the menu although quite large is always the same and after 6 nights I would have problem if it was'nt for the Chef's specials, 2 starters and two mains to choose from. Till today sunday I have had fish every meal, and me not such a fish eater! So tonight I may have meat.

Must go and have breakfast, and once we are home I will post the pix. Tata for now.

Saterday Afternoon

2007-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

We went for a walk along the tiver by the Farncombe boathouse, as it was such a nice sunny afternoon. The Jellies as usual loved running along the tow path.

After a shortish wlk John and I had chips at Hector's Bistro. I had a plate of skinny chips with 2 fried egs and John had a ginormous baked potato with cheese AND a plate of fat chips with mayonaise. Imagine! After we ate all we Jed and Nellie had John skin (potato) and some of his fat chips he couldn't manage. What day for the Jellies.

Tomorrow we are of to Christchurch to the Avonmore hotel on the side of the sea shore. We'll take Jphn's laptop and hopefully I will be able to fill you in with what we are doing. We're back here on the 26th/27th so watch this space.

Snowy day a week ago

2007-02-16T06:48:00.000-08:00

Just to keep you up to date with the Jellies, a week or so ago we woke up to a snowy garden, everything was white. We haven't had that in years, and now all of a sudden 2 days, altho several apart. The Jellies didn't know what that white stuff was and tried to eat it. They gambled about in it, I took several little videos as well as photos. But am not at all sure that we can post videos on a blog. But here are a couple of Jed & Nellie enjoying themselves.

And here is another in our garden, I think it is Nellie this time.

2007-02-15T06:54:00.000-08:00

Day 1

Jed found an enormous bone today in the woods, he carried it home ever so proudly. Nellie stood about hope and awaiting her change to snaffle it. Which she managed after a little while and also got to chew it on the bigger bean bag. Jed was really good about it. When we went for their second walk I took them on my own as John had to visit his 94 year-old aunty; Nellie as disappeared for quite a while which had me whistling for ages. They both had gone, Jed was back first, then finally Nellie; and then they both disappeared again - after pheasants, they liove to chase them I think its the whirring noise they make with their leathery wings as they take off.