Recently Dr Grumble wrote about The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, which I subsequently bought and read. It is a very moving (but not tear-jerking) story of (and by) a young survivor of a very severe stroke.
This morning my copy of the magazine The Oldie arrived and I read some of it, to come across an article in the section Modern Life which mentioned the self same book. but also another book Robert McCrum's "My Year Off".
The article also mentioned the InteractReading Service, whereby currently unemployed actors go and read to stroke patients, and the benefits that seem to ensue..
Friday, 28 September 2007
Groan!
One faithful reader noticed the blanks in my posting and rang me this morning and more or less forced me to call the doctor, who, bless him, came to visit not that long after. All observations seem to be fine apart from blood pressure being rather lower than I normally find it. He has advised that I stop the furosomide for a couple of days. So I am up and showered and dressed, everything being done slowly - had another near fall when I turned round later. Can't really concentrate on anything, but otherwise no worries!
Sorry about lack of anything even vaguely interesting - this may last for a few days.
Sorry about lack of anything even vaguely interesting - this may last for a few days.
Tuesday, 25 September 2007
Feeling Just a Little Sorry for Myself!
I related to my faithful reader yesterday about my sore throat etc. Don't panic - no gory details in the offing, but this morning I had to get up, shower and dress for the organic veg box man to call; this actually does make you feel a bit better (no, the shower and dress part, not the organic veg box man, though come to think about it......... )
Today I have lost my voice. Many people would send up glad cries about this.
In the veg box came potatoes, carrots, onions, a good sized cabbage, 2 leeks and 2 smallish celerys (celeries?) together with a bag of chillies. They sent a recipe for a soup using celery and leek, so I shall give it a try and let you know if it is successful. The fruit was several apples, 2 pears and an orange. Also get 6 organic free range eggs as usual.
Today I have lost my voice. Many people would send up glad cries about this.
In the veg box came potatoes, carrots, onions, a good sized cabbage, 2 leeks and 2 smallish celerys (celeries?) together with a bag of chillies. They sent a recipe for a soup using celery and leek, so I shall give it a try and let you know if it is successful. The fruit was several apples, 2 pears and an orange. Also get 6 organic free range eggs as usual.
Monday, 24 September 2007
Pifflebunk!
Well, as I wrote yesterday, I went to bed early and slept like a log, waking at 5.45 with a sore throat. I have a bit of a wheeze, a bit of a productive cough as well as the sore throat. Now I know perfectly well that these things can be viral and antibiotics are no use against viral infections, so I plan to take things easy for the next few days, paracetamol and plenty fluids (I have about 10 or 12 2-litre bottles in the house. Don't like the tap water here as black bits come out the taps.)
As you can imagine, the filing went no further, but I did at least "hide" the remaining stuff at the front of one of the filing cabinet drawers.
Going back to bed now.
As you can imagine, the filing went no further, but I did at least "hide" the remaining stuff at the front of one of the filing cabinet drawers.
Going back to bed now.
Sunday, 23 September 2007
The Best Laid Schemes of Mice and Men .........
Gang aft agley, with thanks to Robert Burns.
All my schemes went agley yesterday morning when daughter invited me over to lunch as she had her elder brother’s 2 children until about tea time.
It was really good of her to ask me over and she supplied a wonderful lunch of carrot and coriander soup. We served this with the cheese and onion loaf brought by Mr and Mrs B yesterday. Oh, but it was good.
I caught up with daughter and elder son’s news and saw 3 of 4 grandchildren (the oldest was away with his grandfather)
Found myself quite shaky on my pins as I left daughter’s house (and got helped down the lower flight of stairs where there is no stair rail). Even when we reached “terra firma”, I still felt a bit wobbly; however I was all right sitting in the car. On the first occasion in quite a long while, I felt the need to use my stick to help me from the car and to walk home across the car park to here.
So, I tried to make a start on the files, came through to the computer, printed something, stood up and fell, this time luckily landing backwards on to my computer chair!
Think I shall have a nice quiet evening with my book.
However, did not feel too good, so no reading but went to bed early with microwave hot water bottle and the electric blanket on.
I don't feel ill as such but think I have caught a dose of "man flu", so am going back to bed with plenty of water.
All my schemes went agley yesterday morning when daughter invited me over to lunch as she had her elder brother’s 2 children until about tea time.
It was really good of her to ask me over and she supplied a wonderful lunch of carrot and coriander soup. We served this with the cheese and onion loaf brought by Mr and Mrs B yesterday. Oh, but it was good.
I caught up with daughter and elder son’s news and saw 3 of 4 grandchildren (the oldest was away with his grandfather)
Found myself quite shaky on my pins as I left daughter’s house (and got helped down the lower flight of stairs where there is no stair rail). Even when we reached “terra firma”, I still felt a bit wobbly; however I was all right sitting in the car. On the first occasion in quite a long while, I felt the need to use my stick to help me from the car and to walk home across the car park to here.
So, I tried to make a start on the files, came through to the computer, printed something, stood up and fell, this time luckily landing backwards on to my computer chair!
Think I shall have a nice quiet evening with my book.
However, did not feel too good, so no reading but went to bed early with microwave hot water bottle and the electric blanket on.
I don't feel ill as such but think I have caught a dose of "man flu", so am going back to bed with plenty of water.
Saturday, 22 September 2007
A visit, and another Recipe
Yesterday Mr and Mrs B came for tea and biccies, plus a grand blether; Mrs B is very interested in genealogy and came armed with a couple of booklets, which I look forward to reading.
We tend to exchange books and this time I have introduced Mrs B to Conn Iggulden (the Emperor series); I am currently reading the first of the following series which leads to Genghis Khan.
They left me with a cheese loaf and a pain au chocolat from the French market. Scrummy! After they left, I joined the ladies having afternoon tea in the lounge, but the holiday relief milkman did not appear. So, I have made a start of clearing some of the obvious stuff from my filing cabinet and printing off new file labels, with a whole bagful going to the refuse room.
Usually I give you lots of recipes, but this week I have been going through an “I can’t be bothered” phase, and haven’t even got around to taking food out of the freezer to reheat. Part of this is that I intended making a macaroni cheese as I currently have a lot of milk left. I know it is really easy, but something just reaches into the lazy part of me and says “I can’t be bothered.”
I really might make it today, especially if I get going in the morning.
My recipe for macaroni cheese comes in many varieties, but nowadays I don’t cook my famous one (not since I had gallstones and a gall bladder removed). The basic one consists of a mugful of macaroni, cooked in lightly salted water until al dente, (if you add a few drops of oil to the water the macaroni separates more easily), drained and placed in a casserole dish, with a good pint of cheese sauce poured over it and then all mixed together.
The cheese sauce is just a basic white sauce made usually with the roux method, using 2 oz butter, 2 oz flour, half a teaspoon Dijon mustard and a good pint of milk, with grated cheddar to taste added after it is ready and off the heat. However I do know someone who makes it thickened with cornflour.
After, grate some cheese over the top. It is then cooked in the oven at about 180 for about 40 minutes, or less if just cooked.
The super duper one has the addition of an onion, diced and sautéed in a little butter until tender, then drained and added to the macaroni (before the sauce is added)
It also sometimes has some lean bacon grilled, chopped and added to the macaroni with the onions, and also added before the cheese sauce.
We tend to exchange books and this time I have introduced Mrs B to Conn Iggulden (the Emperor series); I am currently reading the first of the following series which leads to Genghis Khan.
They left me with a cheese loaf and a pain au chocolat from the French market. Scrummy! After they left, I joined the ladies having afternoon tea in the lounge, but the holiday relief milkman did not appear. So, I have made a start of clearing some of the obvious stuff from my filing cabinet and printing off new file labels, with a whole bagful going to the refuse room.
Usually I give you lots of recipes, but this week I have been going through an “I can’t be bothered” phase, and haven’t even got around to taking food out of the freezer to reheat. Part of this is that I intended making a macaroni cheese as I currently have a lot of milk left. I know it is really easy, but something just reaches into the lazy part of me and says “I can’t be bothered.”
I really might make it today, especially if I get going in the morning.
My recipe for macaroni cheese comes in many varieties, but nowadays I don’t cook my famous one (not since I had gallstones and a gall bladder removed). The basic one consists of a mugful of macaroni, cooked in lightly salted water until al dente, (if you add a few drops of oil to the water the macaroni separates more easily), drained and placed in a casserole dish, with a good pint of cheese sauce poured over it and then all mixed together.
The cheese sauce is just a basic white sauce made usually with the roux method, using 2 oz butter, 2 oz flour, half a teaspoon Dijon mustard and a good pint of milk, with grated cheddar to taste added after it is ready and off the heat. However I do know someone who makes it thickened with cornflour.
After, grate some cheese over the top. It is then cooked in the oven at about 180 for about 40 minutes, or less if just cooked.
The super duper one has the addition of an onion, diced and sautéed in a little butter until tender, then drained and added to the macaroni (before the sauce is added)
It also sometimes has some lean bacon grilled, chopped and added to the macaroni with the onions, and also added before the cheese sauce.
Friday, 21 September 2007
Keep Fit (Not)
Well, I was a bit concerned as to whether I would go to Keep Fit yesterday, because I was still feeling a bit stiff and sore. My mind was made up for me with a knock at the door opening to two of the other ladies who go. They were here to inform me that the person who takes the class had phoned to cancel, and they were on their way to inform the last one (another lady is away on holiday). I invited them all to have a cup of tea and we had this and a grand chat, until almost 4 o’clock.
On 11 September I did a post about Barbara’s reminiscences of being evacuated, and a few days later dizzy_the_ posted a reply giving an update to how things are nowadays. It was most interesting to hear that schoolchildren there are still taught about the evacuees and each year a class dresses as close as possible to the clothing worn in the 1940s, they carry a mock gas mask and bring a packed lunch more or less of the 40s.
Unfortunately dizzy_the_ has not posted a profile on blogger, so I cannot give you a link.
I printed a copy of this comment and showed it to Barbara, and she was delighted to get an update on that, and amazed to hear that the schoolchildren are still being taught about the evacuees.
We were both commenting about being the oldest in our respective families now, with nobody left to ask about how life and family were before our time. It is so important to hold on to those memories and pass them on before it is too late.
On 11 September I did a post about Barbara’s reminiscences of being evacuated, and a few days later dizzy_the_ posted a reply giving an update to how things are nowadays. It was most interesting to hear that schoolchildren there are still taught about the evacuees and each year a class dresses as close as possible to the clothing worn in the 1940s, they carry a mock gas mask and bring a packed lunch more or less of the 40s.
Unfortunately dizzy_the_ has not posted a profile on blogger, so I cannot give you a link.
I printed a copy of this comment and showed it to Barbara, and she was delighted to get an update on that, and amazed to hear that the schoolchildren are still being taught about the evacuees.
We were both commenting about being the oldest in our respective families now, with nobody left to ask about how life and family were before our time. It is so important to hold on to those memories and pass them on before it is too late.
Thursday, 20 September 2007
The Diving Bell and the Butterfly
Dr Grumble on 9 September recommended a book – The Diving Bell and the Butterfly by Jean Dominique Bauby; I assumed from the title that it was a book about (or even by) a patient in an iron lung (assuming also a diagnosis of poliomyelitis).
However, it was a book by a patient who at the early age of 45 had had a severe stroke, involving the brain stem; he could not move, except from being able to turn his neck a bit, and to blink one eye – the other eyelid was sewn down to prevent corneal scarring.
He dictated the book using blinks to select letters from an alphabet board. It is a very moving book that I had expected to make me cry, but it did not. Instead it shamed me into realising how aware patients (whom we had thought to be brain dead) were of what was going on round them and how frustrated they became when their wishes were ignored, usually through ignorance or carelessness. The author is greatly to be praised.
Mea culpa.
I did not nurse many patients in this condition (in fact I can remember only 1, although I remember her vividly). I may excuse myself by saying I only met her a few times when I was working on the nurse bank. However, now I feel the guilt. I tried, but am sure I did not communicate properly with her. We did try to differentiate night from day (not always easy in a hospital ward) by turning the lights out at "bedtime", leaving only a dim one, and we did talk to her, and yet....
Thank you Dr Grumble.
This book should be compulsory reading for all junior doctors and student nurses and indeed anyone working with patients who have similar problems.
However, it was a book by a patient who at the early age of 45 had had a severe stroke, involving the brain stem; he could not move, except from being able to turn his neck a bit, and to blink one eye – the other eyelid was sewn down to prevent corneal scarring.
He dictated the book using blinks to select letters from an alphabet board. It is a very moving book that I had expected to make me cry, but it did not. Instead it shamed me into realising how aware patients (whom we had thought to be brain dead) were of what was going on round them and how frustrated they became when their wishes were ignored, usually through ignorance or carelessness. The author is greatly to be praised.
Mea culpa.
I did not nurse many patients in this condition (in fact I can remember only 1, although I remember her vividly). I may excuse myself by saying I only met her a few times when I was working on the nurse bank. However, now I feel the guilt. I tried, but am sure I did not communicate properly with her. We did try to differentiate night from day (not always easy in a hospital ward) by turning the lights out at "bedtime", leaving only a dim one, and we did talk to her, and yet....
Thank you Dr Grumble.
This book should be compulsory reading for all junior doctors and student nurses and indeed anyone working with patients who have similar problems.
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Management
I stole this post from The Dinosaur, and have made a couple of changes to suit the NHS. With a couple of changes again, I am sure you could make this fit almost every organisation.
In the Beginning was the Plan.
And then came the Assumptions.
And the Assumptions were without form.
And the Plan was without substance.
And darkness was upon the face of the Workers.
And they spoke among themselves, saying:"It is a crock of shit and it stinks."
And the Workers went unto their Supervisors and said:"It is a pail of dung, and none may abide the odour thereof."
And the Supervisors went unto their Managers, saying:"It is a container of excrement, and it is very strong, such that none may abide by it."
And the Managers went unto their Directors, saying:"It is a vessel of fertilizer, and none may abide its strength."
And the Directors spoke amongst themselves, saying to one another:"It contains that which aids plant growth, and it is very strong."
And the Directors then went unto the Minister of Health, saying unto him:"It promotes growth, and it is very powerful."
And the Minister of Health went unto the Prime Minister, saying unto him:"This new plan will actively promote the growth and vigor of the NHS, with powerful effects."
And the Prime Minister looked upon the Plan, and saw that it was good.And the Plan became Policy.
This is how Shit Happens.
In the Beginning was the Plan.
And then came the Assumptions.
And the Assumptions were without form.
And the Plan was without substance.
And darkness was upon the face of the Workers.
And they spoke among themselves, saying:"It is a crock of shit and it stinks."
And the Workers went unto their Supervisors and said:"It is a pail of dung, and none may abide the odour thereof."
And the Supervisors went unto their Managers, saying:"It is a container of excrement, and it is very strong, such that none may abide by it."
And the Managers went unto their Directors, saying:"It is a vessel of fertilizer, and none may abide its strength."
And the Directors spoke amongst themselves, saying to one another:"It contains that which aids plant growth, and it is very strong."
And the Directors then went unto the Minister of Health, saying unto him:"It promotes growth, and it is very powerful."
And the Minister of Health went unto the Prime Minister, saying unto him:"This new plan will actively promote the growth and vigor of the NHS, with powerful effects."
And the Prime Minister looked upon the Plan, and saw that it was good.And the Plan became Policy.
This is how Shit Happens.
Tuesday, 18 September 2007
Sweary Words
Bugges! and pifflebunk! (which I hope are two sweary words that will not cause offense).
Yesterday, just as I finished my post on this blog, I was unhappy with the angle the monitor was at (pointing somewhat down), so making it difficult to read.
So I tried to tilt it back a bit and then the monitor detached itself from its turntable and I could not get it back. Slept somewhat badly as I was slightly anxious that it might fall. First thing, I struggled to replace it on its base. Each time I could get it to slot in and as soon as I tried to turn it the right way up, it fell apart again. So I showered and dressed (quite hard for me as usually I drip dry in a towelling dressing gown and do a whole lot on the pc - and here I had no pc!)
So there I was up and dressed quite early. Right, then, one more try. Same again!
Right, now it's temper tantrum time!
Well, I had long wanted a flat screen monitor, so off I went to Comet, where I was surprised at how cheap they were, so I bought a 20" widescreen monitor, and came home to connect it all up.
First you connect the monitor to the base, don't you?
Well, I didn't know what I had done wrong, but the screen was at a silly forward and down angle and would have toppled if I hadn't held on to it.
So, now what do I do?
I tried to phone Comet but did not have a telephone number as I always use the internet. I was not in a fit state by this time to drive, so I looked up computer people in the phone book. The third one I tried said that they really only did work for businesses; where did I live? Okay he would come later and fix it for me.
He found it difficult (don't feel so silly now!) and was a bit nervous as in the end it took a bit of BFI (Brute Force and Ignorance) He then plugged it all in and checked it was working - and even plugged in my external usb cord.
How much? I hear you ask.
Nothing.
And he was such a kind man.
This monitor even has built in speakers, so I am going to try and sell my old pairs on Freecycle
Yesterday, just as I finished my post on this blog, I was unhappy with the angle the monitor was at (pointing somewhat down), so making it difficult to read.
So I tried to tilt it back a bit and then the monitor detached itself from its turntable and I could not get it back. Slept somewhat badly as I was slightly anxious that it might fall. First thing, I struggled to replace it on its base. Each time I could get it to slot in and as soon as I tried to turn it the right way up, it fell apart again. So I showered and dressed (quite hard for me as usually I drip dry in a towelling dressing gown and do a whole lot on the pc - and here I had no pc!)
So there I was up and dressed quite early. Right, then, one more try. Same again!
Right, now it's temper tantrum time!
Well, I had long wanted a flat screen monitor, so off I went to Comet, where I was surprised at how cheap they were, so I bought a 20" widescreen monitor, and came home to connect it all up.
First you connect the monitor to the base, don't you?
Well, I didn't know what I had done wrong, but the screen was at a silly forward and down angle and would have toppled if I hadn't held on to it.
So, now what do I do?
I tried to phone Comet but did not have a telephone number as I always use the internet. I was not in a fit state by this time to drive, so I looked up computer people in the phone book. The third one I tried said that they really only did work for businesses; where did I live? Okay he would come later and fix it for me.
He found it difficult (don't feel so silly now!) and was a bit nervous as in the end it took a bit of BFI (Brute Force and Ignorance) He then plugged it all in and checked it was working - and even plugged in my external usb cord.
How much? I hear you ask.
Nothing.
And he was such a kind man.
This monitor even has built in speakers, so I am going to try and sell my old pairs on Freecycle
Monday, 17 September 2007
Bridge
A good turn out at the Bridge Club this afternoon. Therre was another new person there and the "boss lady" (who always plays with a new member to assess their standard of play) reckons that we are much the same. This could be very good news as, if we get on, we could possibly end up as more or less permanent partners, which would open up the possibility of Tuesday evenings too.
Meantime I have a lot of homework to do. I found the hand out notes we were given when I went for some bridge study weekends a few years ago, so I think that is a good way to start.
Meantime I have a lot of homework to do. I found the hand out notes we were given when I went for some bridge study weekends a few years ago, so I think that is a good way to start.
Sunday, 16 September 2007
"Down Came The Rain...
...It's happening again"
So, of course, I decided to leave my handbag and take my umbrella; I hadn’t yet tried to use an umbrella with my stick, but at least it wasn’t windy…
Got up to the church gates and, oh joy!, found one of the two disabled parking bays free and managed to manoeuvre myself (or rather the car) into it. Of course, my disabled badge was in my handbag, wasn’t it? Oh well, I decided to risk it. So next to get the umbrella up; it was one of these small fold-up ones, and what did I find?
Ah, you’re ahead of me.
It folded up beautifully, and unfolded, but would not stay up.
Fat lot of use that was.
And where was my rain hat? You are right; it was back at the flat.
Well it was quite a walk from the car to the door of the church and the paths were starting to flood, so by the time I got there I was pretty wet and cold. The church heating is not on yet, and even although there was a good turn out in spite of the weather, it did not warm up.
Still, it was a good service, with the minister continuing his series of sermons on the Gospel according to St Matthew, this week chapter 6; about not laying up our treasures on earth but in heaven, He spoke well on the subject, as he always does.
Home now, cold and still a bit wet (but thoughtful).
Time to put the fire on and have a nice Tio Pepe!
So, of course, I decided to leave my handbag and take my umbrella; I hadn’t yet tried to use an umbrella with my stick, but at least it wasn’t windy…
Got up to the church gates and, oh joy!, found one of the two disabled parking bays free and managed to manoeuvre myself (or rather the car) into it. Of course, my disabled badge was in my handbag, wasn’t it? Oh well, I decided to risk it. So next to get the umbrella up; it was one of these small fold-up ones, and what did I find?
Ah, you’re ahead of me.
It folded up beautifully, and unfolded, but would not stay up.
Fat lot of use that was.
And where was my rain hat? You are right; it was back at the flat.
Well it was quite a walk from the car to the door of the church and the paths were starting to flood, so by the time I got there I was pretty wet and cold. The church heating is not on yet, and even although there was a good turn out in spite of the weather, it did not warm up.
Still, it was a good service, with the minister continuing his series of sermons on the Gospel according to St Matthew, this week chapter 6; about not laying up our treasures on earth but in heaven, He spoke well on the subject, as he always does.
Home now, cold and still a bit wet (but thoughtful).
Time to put the fire on and have a nice Tio Pepe!
Sometimes I Sits and Thinks
and sometimes I just sits.
I am conscious that over the past week or so, I have moaned about my health or rather consequences of my ill health.
First off, I am 66, a bit disabled and have multiple pathologies, but that is not how I define myself, nor is it how I wish to be defined. Some few years age I was accused of burying my head in the sand; it was an opinion expressed repeatedly and somewhat forcibly, and caused me to lose my self confidence for a bit. However, that is past and gone.
I would prefer to define myself as someone with a cheerful disposition, caring, friendly and outgoing. I am so happy to be going to the local bridge club, and improving my game as well as meeting new people. In addition to that, I love my family and see them as often as possible. Getting a car through Motability was great as it gave me the ability to get to places otherwise impossible (or very difficult).
I love reading, particularly detective fiction; recently I have been reading authors from different countries (Italy, Sicily, Spain, Sweden, Iceland) writing the same sort of stories as Ian Rankin. They each have their own “Rebus” and they are each firmly grounded in their locality and their own climate. I enjoy seeing the parts that are almost a constant and the parts that are so different because of climate differences or other cultural differences: (In Italy, especially Sicily, the Mafia; in Spain the issues arising from the Fascist era; in Sweden the immigrants from Eastern Europe.)
I love jigsaws and recycle them through my sister, 2 friends here, and then to the charity shop. My dining room table is quite small, so I can do only 1000 piece jigsaws, which is something of a shame as the bigger ones are more challenging – mind you, some of the 1000 piece ones are very challenging too!
I love cooking, and I make it worth the effort by making large casseroles and so on and then freezing them in single serving quantities. I just love my new induction hob, it is so controllable: you can leave a casserole on it just bubbling away for 3 hours almost unsupervised.
After quite a long gap, I have gone back to the Church, and am so glad I did so. I left many years ago for rather foolish reasons involving a row with the rector and silly pride kept me away for some time.
Perhaps some of that can go towards defining me….
I am conscious that over the past week or so, I have moaned about my health or rather consequences of my ill health.
First off, I am 66, a bit disabled and have multiple pathologies, but that is not how I define myself, nor is it how I wish to be defined. Some few years age I was accused of burying my head in the sand; it was an opinion expressed repeatedly and somewhat forcibly, and caused me to lose my self confidence for a bit. However, that is past and gone.
I would prefer to define myself as someone with a cheerful disposition, caring, friendly and outgoing. I am so happy to be going to the local bridge club, and improving my game as well as meeting new people. In addition to that, I love my family and see them as often as possible. Getting a car through Motability was great as it gave me the ability to get to places otherwise impossible (or very difficult).
I love reading, particularly detective fiction; recently I have been reading authors from different countries (Italy, Sicily, Spain, Sweden, Iceland) writing the same sort of stories as Ian Rankin. They each have their own “Rebus” and they are each firmly grounded in their locality and their own climate. I enjoy seeing the parts that are almost a constant and the parts that are so different because of climate differences or other cultural differences: (In Italy, especially Sicily, the Mafia; in Spain the issues arising from the Fascist era; in Sweden the immigrants from Eastern Europe.)
I love jigsaws and recycle them through my sister, 2 friends here, and then to the charity shop. My dining room table is quite small, so I can do only 1000 piece jigsaws, which is something of a shame as the bigger ones are more challenging – mind you, some of the 1000 piece ones are very challenging too!
I love cooking, and I make it worth the effort by making large casseroles and so on and then freezing them in single serving quantities. I just love my new induction hob, it is so controllable: you can leave a casserole on it just bubbling away for 3 hours almost unsupervised.
After quite a long gap, I have gone back to the Church, and am so glad I did so. I left many years ago for rather foolish reasons involving a row with the rector and silly pride kept me away for some time.
Perhaps some of that can go towards defining me….
Saturday, 15 September 2007
OUCH!!!
Well, today I did a job I have meant to do for ages.
We-ell, I started to sort out my filing cabinet, and put a whole load of things that I no longer need, some of which goes back years, then (as is the way when you get older) I got sidetracked into doing another job that I have been meaning to do for ages, namely to sort out my wardrobe. I did a fair bit of culling of both when I moved here over 2 years ago now, but it is amazing what you find lurking in the depths!
So had a good look through my wardrobe, throwing out things that I haven’t worn for over 3 years, leaving room for more recent things i.e. things that fit instead of being too small.
Why do women do this; hang onto clothes that are too small, telling themselves (a triumph of hope over experience) that they will get into them soon. Let’s face it, if/when you do lose weight, you don’t want to wear these old things; you want to celebrate by buying a whole new wardrobe – one that says “hey, look at me, don’t I look good now?
So, there I was, with a big black refuse bag full of old clothes (how could there be so much?) and a carrier bag full of paper. I opened the door to my flat prior to going along to the refuse room, and the weight of the sacks (in my left hand) threw me off balance, and I went over backwards, legs apart, hitting my head against the corner of the hall into the living room. I lay there, a bit stunned, and hoped against hope that nobody would come past and see me like that. Fortunately nobody did, so I pulled myself together and crawled to the foot of the bed to pull myself up.
This time I got everything successfully to the refuse bins.
Ouch, I’ve got a sore head, and bet there is a lump there; a bit sore down my left side too.
The filing cabinet can wait. This afternoon is going to be spent in a comfy chair, with a microwave hot pad at my back and the latest Ian Rankin – “Exit Music” to read. (As you will gather, I have finished "Reasonable Doubts", which I highly recommend.)
We-ell, I started to sort out my filing cabinet, and put a whole load of things that I no longer need, some of which goes back years, then (as is the way when you get older) I got sidetracked into doing another job that I have been meaning to do for ages, namely to sort out my wardrobe. I did a fair bit of culling of both when I moved here over 2 years ago now, but it is amazing what you find lurking in the depths!
So had a good look through my wardrobe, throwing out things that I haven’t worn for over 3 years, leaving room for more recent things i.e. things that fit instead of being too small.
Why do women do this; hang onto clothes that are too small, telling themselves (a triumph of hope over experience) that they will get into them soon. Let’s face it, if/when you do lose weight, you don’t want to wear these old things; you want to celebrate by buying a whole new wardrobe – one that says “hey, look at me, don’t I look good now?
So, there I was, with a big black refuse bag full of old clothes (how could there be so much?) and a carrier bag full of paper. I opened the door to my flat prior to going along to the refuse room, and the weight of the sacks (in my left hand) threw me off balance, and I went over backwards, legs apart, hitting my head against the corner of the hall into the living room. I lay there, a bit stunned, and hoped against hope that nobody would come past and see me like that. Fortunately nobody did, so I pulled myself together and crawled to the foot of the bed to pull myself up.
This time I got everything successfully to the refuse bins.
Ouch, I’ve got a sore head, and bet there is a lump there; a bit sore down my left side too.
The filing cabinet can wait. This afternoon is going to be spent in a comfy chair, with a microwave hot pad at my back and the latest Ian Rankin – “Exit Music” to read. (As you will gather, I have finished "Reasonable Doubts", which I highly recommend.)
Friday, 14 September 2007
I've got those Limehouse Chinese Laundry Blues
(with apologies to George Formby).
Today, once again I had a large washing, but I fell lucky and got a smaller machine for a quick wash of my dark clothes, and when it was finished and ready to go in the drier, the bigger machine became free, and so I was able to get all my bedding and pyjamas and undies washed. Because the laundry room was so quiet I managed to get it all dried and put away by lunchtime.
Now see what an exciting life I lead when this becomes important enough to post!
Met up with some of the other residents and had a cup of tea while waiting for the fish van to call and to pay the milkman. Bought a piece of salmon for my tea. Somebody who had the good idea to catch a number of us (even though she usually steers well away from any social occasion) was the treasurer, round collecting subscriptions to the Residents Association; 0f course in light of my opinion of this committee and the damage it has done to relations here, I refused to pay. The fee is only £2.50, but it is a matter of principle.
I am reading Gianrico Carofiglio's third book "Reasonable Doubts". The author was an anti-Mafio prosecutor in Southern Italy and his knowledge and experience are put to good use in his legal fiction. His prose style is far from commonplace and the books move along a good pace. I have received the latest (and final) Rebus story by Ian Rankin, but have deferred reading it until I have finished Reasonable Doubts. Now, to anyone who knows me, there can be few higher degrees of approbation.
Today, once again I had a large washing, but I fell lucky and got a smaller machine for a quick wash of my dark clothes, and when it was finished and ready to go in the drier, the bigger machine became free, and so I was able to get all my bedding and pyjamas and undies washed. Because the laundry room was so quiet I managed to get it all dried and put away by lunchtime.
Now see what an exciting life I lead when this becomes important enough to post!
Met up with some of the other residents and had a cup of tea while waiting for the fish van to call and to pay the milkman. Bought a piece of salmon for my tea. Somebody who had the good idea to catch a number of us (even though she usually steers well away from any social occasion) was the treasurer, round collecting subscriptions to the Residents Association; 0f course in light of my opinion of this committee and the damage it has done to relations here, I refused to pay. The fee is only £2.50, but it is a matter of principle.
I am reading Gianrico Carofiglio's third book "Reasonable Doubts". The author was an anti-Mafio prosecutor in Southern Italy and his knowledge and experience are put to good use in his legal fiction. His prose style is far from commonplace and the books move along a good pace. I have received the latest (and final) Rebus story by Ian Rankin, but have deferred reading it until I have finished Reasonable Doubts. Now, to anyone who knows me, there can be few higher degrees of approbation.
Wednesday, 12 September 2007
Out for Coffee
This morning I went to visit the very good friends who left here recently following the difficulties I wrote about earlier; they moved into their new home about a month ago, and have had to carry out a lot of work. The house is a good size with 2 double bedrooms, bathroom and single bedroom which they are using as a study; downstairs is a large sitting room/dining room with kitchen off, and a toilet. There is a good sized garage at the side.
Since moving in the lady of the house (whom I shall call L.) has painted all the cupboards before unpacking into them as they were very dusty; now the unpacking has been done. The garden was overgrown and they filled 2 skips with garden refuse, so there is still a lot of work to do there. They plan all sorts of things for the future in making this the house of their dreams, but are taking a well-earned rest for the meantime.
We enjoyed our coffee and blether and I stood up to leave and come home, when Mr L. said where was I going? They were taking me out to lunch at a near by good hotel (which they describe as their local hostelry). As usual I ate too much.... I drove us there and they walked back leaving me to do some shopping, fill the car with petrol and claim my free car wash and wheel scrub.
Since moving in the lady of the house (whom I shall call L.) has painted all the cupboards before unpacking into them as they were very dusty; now the unpacking has been done. The garden was overgrown and they filled 2 skips with garden refuse, so there is still a lot of work to do there. They plan all sorts of things for the future in making this the house of their dreams, but are taking a well-earned rest for the meantime.
We enjoyed our coffee and blether and I stood up to leave and come home, when Mr L. said where was I going? They were taking me out to lunch at a near by good hotel (which they describe as their local hostelry). As usual I ate too much.... I drove us there and they walked back leaving me to do some shopping, fill the car with petrol and claim my free car wash and wheel scrub.
Tuesday, 11 September 2007
p.s. to Stiffy
I was struggling to get up from my chair just now, when I burst out laughing.
A long time ago, when I was a Staff Nurse on an acute medicine ward, which largely took elderly patients, we would quite often get patients admitted with an informal diagnosis of "off his/her legs" which was referred to in the vernacular as "aff his/her legs"
Almost full circle.........
A long time ago, when I was a Staff Nurse on an acute medicine ward, which largely took elderly patients, we would quite often get patients admitted with an informal diagnosis of
Almost full circle.........
Organic Veg. Box
Set the alarm to be up early for the delivery. Today's offerings were:
potatoes, carrots, onions as usual plus a bag of (kohl rabbi) oops, it was curly kale, a bag of Swiss chard, 2 leeks and 4 white turnips; also 5 apples and a pear and the usual half dozen eggs. These eggs are excellent (organic and free range, of course) and cost only £1.30 (they were £1.25, but went up this week due to the rise in the cost of feed).
The quantities I get appear to be just right for me - I currently had only 2 onions left from the last delivery.
Doing things this way means that I clean the veg drawer in my fridge every fortnight.
Thanks to some advice from S. I now know that the Good Housekeeping Cookbook has a whole section on the cooking of individual vegetables, which is great as quite a few I had never come across before. curly kale you treat like cabbage, and you should cook it soon as it otherwise goes bitter; Swiss (or ruby) chard you cook like spinach.
potatoes, carrots, onions as usual plus a bag of (kohl rabbi) oops, it was curly kale, a bag of Swiss chard, 2 leeks and 4 white turnips; also 5 apples and a pear and the usual half dozen eggs. These eggs are excellent (organic and free range, of course) and cost only £1.30 (they were £1.25, but went up this week due to the rise in the cost of feed).
The quantities I get appear to be just right for me - I currently had only 2 onions left from the last delivery.
Doing things this way means that I clean the veg drawer in my fridge every fortnight.
Thanks to some advice from S. I now know that the Good Housekeeping Cookbook has a whole section on the cooking of individual vegetables, which is great as quite a few I had never come across before. curly kale you treat like cabbage, and you should cook it soon as it otherwise goes bitter; Swiss (or ruby) chard you cook like spinach.
Stiffy The Goalkeeper (ctd)
I told you about being very stiff and finding it very difficult; so when I got up yesterday, I proceeded very gingerly to shower and dress. My head felt full of "mince", so with the difficulty moving and the thick head I thought I would not make it to bridge; however as the morning went on I felt a bit better, so I went. Did not play well on the whole, but getting to know more of the people.
Came home to a tea of cold meat and salad; I had previously made potato salad and last night had the second of quite a large quantity (probably enough for 4 meals). As I was clearing up and washing up I went to put the bowl with the rest of the potato salad into the fridge covered with clingfilm, when it slipped from my grasp and fell to the floor, smashing the bowl to smithereens. Dropping it may have been something to do with having arthritic thumbs and had been using them to hold hands of cards all afternoon.
Now clearing up a smashed bowl and a large quantity of potato salad is a difficult business; I did most of it bending down and picking up the larger pieces, then I had to get down on my hands and knees to get the rest, using kitchen roll to help.
Ah, you're ahead of me here.....
Yes, I could not manage to get up, even using the arm of the settee, so had to crawl through to the bedroom to be able to "push and pull" myself up to standing; this happened twice. Hope nobody was looking as it must have been an amazing sight!
However, all cleared by the end, and so dishes done and off to bed.
This morning I am happy to report that I feel much better, although the quadriceps are stiff and sore.
Came home to a tea of cold meat and salad; I had previously made potato salad and last night had the second of quite a large quantity (probably enough for 4 meals). As I was clearing up and washing up I went to put the bowl with the rest of the potato salad into the fridge covered with clingfilm, when it slipped from my grasp and fell to the floor, smashing the bowl to smithereens. Dropping it may have been something to do with having arthritic thumbs and had been using them to hold hands of cards all afternoon.
Now clearing up a smashed bowl and a large quantity of potato salad is a difficult business; I did most of it bending down and picking up the larger pieces, then I had to get down on my hands and knees to get the rest, using kitchen roll to help.
Ah, you're ahead of me here.....
Yes, I could not manage to get up, even using the arm of the settee, so had to crawl through to the bedroom to be able to "push and pull" myself up to standing; this happened twice. Hope nobody was looking as it must have been an amazing sight!
However, all cleared by the end, and so dishes done and off to bed.
This morning I am happy to report that I feel much better, although the quadriceps are stiff and sore.
Sunday, 9 September 2007
Stiffy the Goalkeeper
Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear!
I think this is a cry for sympathy. I don't know if this is caused by the lack of sleep over the past two nights, but I became quite unsteady on my feet (and, no, despite what you might think, I was sober at the time), but I have found it increasingly difficult to move from sitting to standing; normally, I use my arms to assist, but now I am so sore - my arms, across my shoulders, my thighs - and while my friend was here I needed help.
Currently the only way I can get up is geting on my hands and knees at the foot of the bed (so that I can use the wall to brace my feet) and haul myself up from a kneeling position.
Go on, laugh - it must look hilarious.
I was too worried about not being able to get out of the car to go to church today, very disappointing as it was Communion Sunday.
The title is a phrase my father used to use......
I think this is a cry for sympathy. I don't know if this is caused by the lack of sleep over the past two nights, but I became quite unsteady on my feet (and, no, despite what you might think, I was sober at the time), but I have found it increasingly difficult to move from sitting to standing; normally, I use my arms to assist, but now I am so sore - my arms, across my shoulders, my thighs - and while my friend was here I needed help.
Currently the only way I can get up is geting on my hands and knees at the foot of the bed (so that I can use the wall to brace my feet) and haul myself up from a kneeling position.
Go on, laugh - it must look hilarious.
I was too worried about not being able to get out of the car to go to church today, very disappointing as it was Communion Sunday.
The title is a phrase my father used to use......
Friend to Dinner
As mentioned yesterday, I had my friend J. to dinner and to stay over last night We started with a glass of Martini Extra Dry, then moved on to a meal of Chicken Liver Pate (recipe below) served on oatcakes, followed by Shin of Beef Casserole (recipe given on 21 August) with boiled organic new potatoes (variety Bard) and steamed purple cabbage. We had a nice Cabernet Sauvignon with it.
The conversation flowed, with another glass or two of wine. She is one of the few people who can talk as much as I can! The time flew past, then I showed J. to the guest suite. By the time I had finished the washing up, it was almost midnight (well past my usual bedtime) Slept like a log, waking shortly before the alarm time and so was able to be up, showered and dressed before I got a text from her asking if I was up.
Breakfast was freshly squeezed orange juice, followed by bacon and tomato rolls accompanied by my favourite blend of tea. This is 1 tsp Darjeeling, 1 tsp Earl Gray and a pinch of Assam. J. has now left to hit the town shopping (including a visit to Ikea, a thought that fills me with horror!)
So I promised you a recipe for the pate:-
CHICKEN LIVER PATE CORDON BLEU
1 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped finely
3 oz butter
8 oz chicken livers
parsely, bayleaf, a few sprigs of thyme
seasoning
1dessert spoon brandy
Soften the onion and garlic in 1 oz butter
Add chicken livers and saute for 2 - 3 minutes.
Sprinkle with herbs, season well and continue cooking for 1 minute
Cool, then liquidise
Stir in remaining melted butter and brandy
Pack into a mould, then chill
Turn out and serve with fresh toast and butter or oatcakes.
(I find that the butter is not necessary as the pate is so rich.)
I use chicken livers from the Farmers' Market. This pate freezes well if you are making it in advance.
The conversation flowed, with another glass or two of wine. She is one of the few people who can talk as much as I can! The time flew past, then I showed J. to the guest suite. By the time I had finished the washing up, it was almost midnight (well past my usual bedtime) Slept like a log, waking shortly before the alarm time and so was able to be up, showered and dressed before I got a text from her asking if I was up.
Breakfast was freshly squeezed orange juice, followed by bacon and tomato rolls accompanied by my favourite blend of tea. This is 1 tsp Darjeeling, 1 tsp Earl Gray and a pinch of Assam. J. has now left to hit the town shopping (including a visit to Ikea, a thought that fills me with horror!)
So I promised you a recipe for the pate:-
CHICKEN LIVER PATE CORDON BLEU
1 medium onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, chopped finely
3 oz butter
8 oz chicken livers
parsely, bayleaf, a few sprigs of thyme
seasoning
1dessert spoon brandy
Soften the onion and garlic in 1 oz butter
Add chicken livers and saute for 2 - 3 minutes.
Sprinkle with herbs, season well and continue cooking for 1 minute
Cool, then liquidise
Stir in remaining melted butter and brandy
Pack into a mould, then chill
Turn out and serve with fresh toast and butter or oatcakes.
(I find that the butter is not necessary as the pate is so rich.)
I use chicken livers from the Farmers' Market. This pate freezes well if you are making it in advance.
A Wake
A long standing friend came yesterday evening for dinner and to stay for one night. She trained as a nurse a year behind me and her husband was in the “block” between us. I am older than she, and her husband was exactly ten years younger than me. It was devastating when he died after a long illness nearly 2 years ago; he was such a larger-than-life figure, who loved cooking and entertaining friends and also loved his work, latterly as a psychiatric nurse tutor. He was well known for throwing the syllabus out of the window occasionally and bringing in some of his home baking for the students,
He was my “best buddy” and adopted “brother” as we were quite alike in many ways. We learnt to make wine together (pretty foul stuff, I have to admit), then beer which, once we moved on from buying kits, was actually very good indeed. We both played bridge, along with another couple who later moved away. It was not bridge club level, and I seem to remember that it involved the consumption of some wine.
I have never been to a funeral like it; the place was packed with so many friends, fellow staff, students and former students. One eulogy was presented by a mutual friend who flew over from darkest France (somewhere in the Charente) and the other by a colleague. The music was “House of the Rising Sun” which we had long discussed before he became ill. At the crematorium, the undertaker was rather shocked to discover that the music (chosen by him before he died) was to be “Come on Baby, Light My Fire”! Some of his oldest friends at the back felt he deserved a proper send off, so we were to be found dancing to the music at the back of the crowd, with tears running down our cheeks,
Then it was back to a hall at his place of employment for drinks and food and a slide presentation of photographs of him. It was a time of deep sorrow, but also pleasure at meeting up with so many old friends.
It was good that J. and I last night were able to share some happy memories of him, times we spent together both in this country and inFrance.
I still miss him.
He was my “best buddy” and adopted “brother” as we were quite alike in many ways. We learnt to make wine together (pretty foul stuff, I have to admit), then beer which, once we moved on from buying kits, was actually very good indeed. We both played bridge, along with another couple who later moved away. It was not bridge club level, and I seem to remember that it involved the consumption of some wine.
I have never been to a funeral like it; the place was packed with so many friends, fellow staff, students and former students. One eulogy was presented by a mutual friend who flew over from darkest France (somewhere in the Charente) and the other by a colleague. The music was “House of the Rising Sun” which we had long discussed before he became ill. At the crematorium, the undertaker was rather shocked to discover that the music (chosen by him before he died) was to be “Come on Baby, Light My Fire”! Some of his oldest friends at the back felt he deserved a proper send off, so we were to be found dancing to the music at the back of the crowd, with tears running down our cheeks,
Then it was back to a hall at his place of employment for drinks and food and a slide presentation of photographs of him. It was a time of deep sorrow, but also pleasure at meeting up with so many old friends.
It was good that J. and I last night were able to share some happy memories of him, times we spent together both in this country and inFrance.
I still miss him.
Saturday, 8 September 2007
Diamond Anniversary
Yesterday I got a surprise invitation to a party for friends who live in a flat here who had recently celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary. This means that they were married in the same year as Queen Elizabeth (then Princess Elizabeth, of course) was married to Prince Philip - in other words, 1947. They showed me the card they had got from the Queen. Now, I am not a monarchist, but even I, cynical old thing that I am, was rather moved and impressed.
Funnily enough there used to be a church on the site of the flats, and they were married in that church; now that is a really spooky coincidence.
We had a great time particularly as I knew everyone there (I get a bit shy in parties full of strangers).
It's also good to be able to walk home!!
I have written about being a very old blogger, and Dr Grumble pointed out that I was not the oldest on two occasions, giving me links to their sites; however A. has directed me to a site (The Ageless Project)where elderly bloggers are listed, along with their year of birth. I am humbled; not only is there a 95 year old Spanish lady whom I mentioned before, but also there are many others much older than me.
Now the couple who celebrated their diamond anniversary are by definition also rather older than me but, although they don't blog, are very much internet savvy.
Funnily enough there used to be a church on the site of the flats, and they were married in that church; now that is a really spooky coincidence.
We had a great time particularly as I knew everyone there (I get a bit shy in parties full of strangers).
It's also good to be able to walk home!!
I have written about being a very old blogger, and Dr Grumble pointed out that I was not the oldest on two occasions, giving me links to their sites; however A. has directed me to a site (The Ageless Project)where elderly bloggers are listed, along with their year of birth. I am humbled; not only is there a 95 year old Spanish lady whom I mentioned before, but also there are many others much older than me.
Now the couple who celebrated their diamond anniversary are by definition also rather older than me but, although they don't blog, are very much internet savvy.
Friday, 7 September 2007
WORDS WOMEN USE
I don't remember where I came across this one, but I found it funny (not to mention true!)
FINE
This is the word women use to end an argument when they feel they are right and you need to shut up. Never use “fine” to describe how a woman looks – this will cause you to have one of those arguments.
FIVE MINUTES
This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the trash, so it’s an even trade.
NOTHING
This means “something” and you should be on your toes. “Nothing” is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. “Nothing” usually signifies an argument that will last “five minutes” and end with “fine”.
GO AHEAD (With Raised Eyebrows!)
This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over “Nothing” and will end with the word “Fine”.
GO AHEAD (Normal Eyebrows)
This means "I give up" or "do what you want because I don't care". You will get a "Raised Eyebrows Go Ahead" in just a few minutes, followed by "Nothing" and "Fine" and she will talk to you in about "Five Minutes" when she cools off.
LOUD SIGH
This is not actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A “Loud Sigh” means that she thinks you are an idiot at the moment and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you over “Nothing”.
SOFT SIGH
Again not a word, but a non-verbal statement. “Soft Sighs” mean that she is content. Your best bet is not to move or breathe, and she will stay content.
THAT’S OKAY
This is one of the most dangerous statements that a woman can make to a man. “That’s Okay” means that she wants to think long and hard before paying you back for whatever it is that you have done. “That’s Okay” is often used with the word “Fine” and in conjunction with a “Raised Eyebrow”
GO AHEAD!
At some time in the near future, you are going to be in some mighty big trouble.
PLEASE DO
This is not a statement, it is an offer. A woman is giving you the chance to come up with whatever excuse or reason you have for whatever it that you have done. You have a fair chance with the truth, so be careful and you shouldn’t get a “That’s Okay’
THANKS
A woman is thanking you. Do not! Faint! Just say “You’re welcome”.
THANKS A LOT
This is much different from “Thanks”. A woman will say “Thanks a Lot” when she is really ticked off at you. It signifies that you have offended her in some callous way, and will be followed by the “Loud Sigh”. Be careful not to ask what is wrong after the “Loud Sigh” as she will only tell you “Nothing”
FINE
This is the word women use to end an argument when they feel they are right and you need to shut up. Never use “fine” to describe how a woman looks – this will cause you to have one of those arguments.
FIVE MINUTES
This is half an hour. It is equivalent to the five minutes that your football game is going to last before you take out the trash, so it’s an even trade.
NOTHING
This means “something” and you should be on your toes. “Nothing” is usually used to describe the feeling a woman has of wanting to turn you inside out, upside down, and backwards. “Nothing” usually signifies an argument that will last “five minutes” and end with “fine”.
GO AHEAD (With Raised Eyebrows!)
This is a dare. One that will result in a woman getting upset over “Nothing” and will end with the word “Fine”.
GO AHEAD (Normal Eyebrows)
This means "I give up" or "do what you want because I don't care". You will get a "Raised Eyebrows Go Ahead" in just a few minutes, followed by "Nothing" and "Fine" and she will talk to you in about "Five Minutes" when she cools off.
LOUD SIGH
This is not actually a word, but is a non-verbal statement often misunderstood by men. A “Loud Sigh” means that she thinks you are an idiot at the moment and wonders why she is wasting her time standing here and arguing with you over “Nothing”.
SOFT SIGH
Again not a word, but a non-verbal statement. “Soft Sighs” mean that she is content. Your best bet is not to move or breathe, and she will stay content.
THAT’S OKAY
This is one of the most dangerous statements that a woman can make to a man. “That’s Okay” means that she wants to think long and hard before paying you back for whatever it is that you have done. “That’s Okay” is often used with the word “Fine” and in conjunction with a “Raised Eyebrow”
GO AHEAD!
At some time in the near future, you are going to be in some mighty big trouble.
PLEASE DO
This is not a statement, it is an offer. A woman is giving you the chance to come up with whatever excuse or reason you have for whatever it that you have done. You have a fair chance with the truth, so be careful and you shouldn’t get a “That’s Okay’
THANKS
A woman is thanking you. Do not! Faint! Just say “You’re welcome”.
THANKS A LOT
This is much different from “Thanks”. A woman will say “Thanks a Lot” when she is really ticked off at you. It signifies that you have offended her in some callous way, and will be followed by the “Loud Sigh”. Be careful not to ask what is wrong after the “Loud Sigh” as she will only tell you “Nothing”
Thursday, 6 September 2007
Birthday Treats
Today best friend S. had a significant birthday, so we went to the hairdresser together - we share the same hairdresser but it is quite rare for us to go together. When I went to book my next appointment for 6 weeks on, I discovered that that was when I would be away to visit son and daughter in law again, so made appointment for 5 weeks on .
After, we did some shopping. Eat your heart out, Tesco, I was able to get the Noilly Prat from Morrisons that I failed to get in Tesco's last delivery. In fact I bought the whole stock of 5 bottles and a bottle of rather inexpensive Tio Pepe (to make it 6 bottles for the 5% discount - well seen I am a Scot!), then we came home for tea and pressie opening. Many of the presents had a story to go with them as to why - and often when - I had bought them.
It is rare that I go out specially to buy presents, but it is amazing how often I just see something on my way round numerous places that appears to jump up and say "hey I would be perfect for ....) I collect these presents in two places in my flat, a drawer in one of my chests of drawers and on the floor of the wardrobe.
We were very lucky to have a beautiful, warm, sunny day. The sun is still shining. It would be wonderful if we were to get a spell like this to set us up for winter.
After, we did some shopping. Eat your heart out, Tesco, I was able to get the Noilly Prat from Morrisons that I failed to get in Tesco's last delivery. In fact I bought the whole stock of 5 bottles and a bottle of rather inexpensive Tio Pepe (to make it 6 bottles for the 5% discount - well seen I am a Scot!), then we came home for tea and pressie opening. Many of the presents had a story to go with them as to why - and often when - I had bought them.
It is rare that I go out specially to buy presents, but it is amazing how often I just see something on my way round numerous places that appears to jump up and say "hey I would be perfect for ....) I collect these presents in two places in my flat, a drawer in one of my chests of drawers and on the floor of the wardrobe.
We were very lucky to have a beautiful, warm, sunny day. The sun is still shining. It would be wonderful if we were to get a spell like this to set us up for winter.
The Oldest Blogger
Dr Grumble (Wow, he reads my blog!!!!) has noted on my post entitled "An Even Older Blogger" that there is an older blogger still at the address below:
http://amis95.blogspot.com/
This lady is worth a visit.
Hope I could live this long and be as alert and feisty as she is.
http://amis95.blogspot.com/
This lady is worth a visit.
Hope I could live this long and be as alert and feisty as she is.
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Outpatients
Went to the hospital today to Outpatients. About the blogs from GPs complaining about referring patients to a consultant and finding that they were seen not by the consultant, nor even a "junior" doctor, but by a nurse; I have been fortunate to have been seen by the consultant on each of 3 visits. He has run his clinics to time, and always takes the time to explain things to you, so that the decision taken is a joint one.
I went today not entirely sure what decision to take, as the probability of success (by-pass of small leg arteries) is 50%. I asked if that probability was for one leg or for two - it is for one leg. Having studied probability I knew that that meant that the probability of success for two legs would then be only 25%.
Accordingly we decided to do nothing in the meantime (especially as I have pretty good pain control on amitriptyline), although I have to be careful of cuts or ulcers.
He said he would be very happy to see me again quickly if circumstances were to change.
I went today not entirely sure what decision to take, as the probability of success (by-pass of small leg arteries) is 50%. I asked if that probability was for one leg or for two - it is for one leg. Having studied probability I knew that that meant that the probability of success for two legs would then be only 25%.
Accordingly we decided to do nothing in the meantime (especially as I have pretty good pain control on amitriptyline), although I have to be careful of cuts or ulcers.
He said he would be very happy to see me again quickly if circumstances were to change.
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
China (Part 3)
We left Beijing by plane for Xian. I should comment here that every flight we were on (with one exception, which I shall tell you about later) left the ground (not the gate) at the advertised time - most impressive. We visited the Great Mosque - our guide had been raised in the muslim quarter.
Then on to the highlight - the Terracotta Warriors. There were 3 air-conditioned buildings, the main pit (below) and two others where work is still going on, so that we saw all stages of the archeological site: reconstructed warriors, pieces of warriors in situ, as found, the reconstruction site where the warriors are painstakingly reconstructed, and pits still to be excavated. Originally these warriors would have been very colourful.
Above is a picture of the farmer who discovered the pit with the terracotta warriors signing a copy of the book about the site for us.
You may (or may not) be surprised to know that, if you see someone else's photograph of the farmer who found the pit signing a copy of a book for them, the farmer looks quite different! Of course we knew this would be the case, but enjoyed doing it anyway.
Then on to the highlight - the Terracotta Warriors. There were 3 air-conditioned buildings, the main pit (below) and two others where work is still going on, so that we saw all stages of the archeological site: reconstructed warriors, pieces of warriors in situ, as found, the reconstruction site where the warriors are painstakingly reconstructed, and pits still to be excavated. Originally these warriors would have been very colourful.
Above is a postcard showing the inside of one of the buildings erected over them; no photographs were allowed. The scale is breathtaking.
This shows one of the warriors in detail. Every warrior is supposed to be different.
Above is a picture of the farmer who discovered the pit with the terracotta warriors signing a copy of the book about the site for us.
You may (or may not) be surprised to know that, if you see someone else's photograph of the farmer who found the pit signing a copy of a book for them, the farmer looks quite different! Of course we knew this would be the case, but enjoyed doing it anyway.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Bridge
Today I went for my third bridge session. This time, instead of playing with one of the leaders of the club (who had taken me under her wing) I was let loose on a proper bridge partner, who has graduated to playing on the competitive Monday nights. I confess to facing this with some trepidation. He is a really nice guy and kept telling me to relax and enjoy it and not to worry, as I kept making mistakes; some of these were just learning issues (and once I caught him out in return!) However, on one occasion I had got my knickers in such a twist that I could not even remember which suit was trumps!!!!!
Anyway, I really enjoyed the afternoon, although I know our partnership has not done very well, at least we were not bottom scorers on some of the boards, Now I have a book away - that's my "homework"!
Quiet evening now.
Anyway, I really enjoyed the afternoon, although I know our partnership has not done very well, at least we were not bottom scorers on some of the boards, Now I have a book away - that's my "homework"!
Quiet evening now.
A Quiet Weekend (Not)
Well, the weekend started with a wonderful evening with S and P; we started off with champagne cocktails, and continued with a delicious meal PLUS pudding PLUS petits fours (and of course wine). They are such good hosts. After dinner we sat in front of a lovely fire. Slept the sleep of the just and was wakened in time to have a breakfast of freshly squeezed orange juice and scrambled egg on homemade soda bread with a cup of tea.
Left clutching goodies from the garden, a couple of courgettes and some beetroot, then drove the long way round the centre of town to seek a parking place for church.
After church, daughter and family came as arranged to go for lunch at the garden centre and then on to the cinema to see The Bourne Ultimatum. Enjoyed the car chases – always liked playing dodgems as a child!
They came back to me to see my new kitchen, and then had to leave shortly afterwards. Bless daughter - she brought me a pressie of a couple of bottles of Noilly Prat. She certainly knows what I like..
Have to say that, what with Saturday's dinner and yesterday's lunch, could not eat a thing yesterday evening!
This was a good weekend!
Left clutching goodies from the garden, a couple of courgettes and some beetroot, then drove the long way round the centre of town to seek a parking place for church.
After church, daughter and family came as arranged to go for lunch at the garden centre and then on to the cinema to see The Bourne Ultimatum. Enjoyed the car chases – always liked playing dodgems as a child!
They came back to me to see my new kitchen, and then had to leave shortly afterwards. Bless daughter - she brought me a pressie of a couple of bottles of Noilly Prat. She certainly knows what I like..
Have to say that, what with Saturday's dinner and yesterday's lunch, could not eat a thing yesterday evening!
This was a good weekend!
Sunday, 2 September 2007
Invitations and a Cook-In
Well, yesterday I had planned to be a cook-in day. On Friday evening I removed two chicken legs (rather large ones of the Marks and Spencer “Oakham” variety) and four chicken thighs.
I had intended to cook the chicken legs to have one for yesterday and one cold for today, and to use the thighs to make a curry for freezing.
However, “The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft agley”, so firstly daughter phones and suggests lunch followed by the cinema on Sunday. Great idea, so I suggested a garden centre near the multiplex for lunch. She would pick me up after church. After the cinema she would come back to inspect my new kitchen (but not stay long enough for the boys to get bored: it is hard to find enough to keep them occupied in a small flat.)
Secondly, I was sitting at the computer yesterday updating the previous blog off line prior to posting it, when in comes an email from S. inviting me over for dinner and a sleep over. Of course I jumped at the offer.
I then decided that the first priority was to cook the meat – can’t leave defrosted chicken hanging around uncooked. So I quickly looked in the fridge and cooked:-
CHICKEN CASSEROLE
2 chicken legs
2 leeks, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 onions, chopped
1 organic chicken stock cube
Place all in a casserole, cover with boiling water and cook at 180 for ½ hour, then 160 for 1 ½ hours. Leave to cool and put in the fridge till tomorrow,
CHICKEN SOUP
This is just a variation of the chicken soup I wrote about before. These things all depend on what you have in the store cupboard.
4 chicken thighs
1 leek, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
Handful of long grain rice
Place the first 4 ingredients in a heavy pan and cover with boiling water, bring to the boil and simmer for 2 hours.
Remove the thighs using a slotted spoon and leave to cool.
Add the rice and season to taste.
Bring to the boil and cook for 10 minutes
Remove the skin from the meat, then take the meat from the bones and cut it into the soup
I had intended to cook the chicken legs to have one for yesterday and one cold for today, and to use the thighs to make a curry for freezing.
However, “The best laid plans of mice and men gang aft agley”, so firstly daughter phones and suggests lunch followed by the cinema on Sunday. Great idea, so I suggested a garden centre near the multiplex for lunch. She would pick me up after church. After the cinema she would come back to inspect my new kitchen (but not stay long enough for the boys to get bored: it is hard to find enough to keep them occupied in a small flat.)
Secondly, I was sitting at the computer yesterday updating the previous blog off line prior to posting it, when in comes an email from S. inviting me over for dinner and a sleep over. Of course I jumped at the offer.
I then decided that the first priority was to cook the meat – can’t leave defrosted chicken hanging around uncooked. So I quickly looked in the fridge and cooked:-
CHICKEN CASSEROLE
2 chicken legs
2 leeks, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 onions, chopped
1 organic chicken stock cube
Place all in a casserole, cover with boiling water and cook at 180 for ½ hour, then 160 for 1 ½ hours. Leave to cool and put in the fridge till tomorrow,
CHICKEN SOUP
This is just a variation of the chicken soup I wrote about before. These things all depend on what you have in the store cupboard.
4 chicken thighs
1 leek, chopped
1 carrot, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
Handful of long grain rice
Place the first 4 ingredients in a heavy pan and cover with boiling water, bring to the boil and simmer for 2 hours.
Remove the thighs using a slotted spoon and leave to cool.
Add the rice and season to taste.
Bring to the boil and cook for 10 minutes
Remove the skin from the meat, then take the meat from the bones and cut it into the soup
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Wash Day
This block of flats has a laundry room in the basement with 3 washing machines and 4 tumble dryers. (We are not permitted to dry washing outside.) You may not use more than one washing machine at a time, so as you can imagine, it can sometimes be difficult to find a machine available. Yesterday my laundry bin was full, so I needed to do both a dark wash and a white wash. I trekked down to the laundry to find to my delight that the new machine with a bigger drum was available, so in went the bulky white wash to a short but hot programme, and then returned to my flat. Half an hour later I returned to the laundry room to find my machine on its last spin. I then was a little bit naughty and put my less bulky dark wash into the machine next to it for a “once worn” quick wash and almost immediately transferred the first wash to the new, bigger and better tumble dryer.
I returned to my flat for brunch and half an hour later returned to the laundry to find the dark wash ready to spin and put in the dryer. A further half hour or so later, both washes were dry, so I folded them and brought them upstairs to put them away.
All this before 2pm when it was time to go to the residents lounge for a cup of tea and wait for the milk man to come for his money. (Yes, we get doorstep milk here – and he even can deliver my organic milk!)
So yesterday was a really good day; usually I hate a wash day as it can be really difficult to get a machine free, and I hate when I have to work on with it until evening.
I can, however, tell you of a rather funny story about this. A demand came from TV Licencing for "Flat 5". Now we have no Flat 5. The house manager brought it to me as a query and I said I would look into it. Eventually I worked out that "Flat 5" was the laundry room. So I phoned TV Licencing and told them so; however they were still insistent and I kept saying there was no television in the room, only 3 washing machines and 4 tumble driers. So they said they would come to inspect the "flat". They told me they would write to "3 washing machines and 4 tumble driers" to arrange an appointment.
Well, after I stopped laughing, I managed to convince the guy that it was not a staffed launderette (where someone might watch a television) but merely a facility for residents to come and do their own washing (and what's more, get out of there as quickly as possible.)
Okay, so he accepted that, but he told me that they would send out another letter demanding payment in 2 or 3 years time to ensure circumstances had not changed!
You could not make it up.
I returned to my flat for brunch and half an hour later returned to the laundry to find the dark wash ready to spin and put in the dryer. A further half hour or so later, both washes were dry, so I folded them and brought them upstairs to put them away.
All this before 2pm when it was time to go to the residents lounge for a cup of tea and wait for the milk man to come for his money. (Yes, we get doorstep milk here – and he even can deliver my organic milk!)
So yesterday was a really good day; usually I hate a wash day as it can be really difficult to get a machine free, and I hate when I have to work on with it until evening.
I can, however, tell you of a rather funny story about this. A demand came from TV Licencing for "Flat 5". Now we have no Flat 5. The house manager brought it to me as a query and I said I would look into it. Eventually I worked out that "Flat 5" was the laundry room. So I phoned TV Licencing and told them so; however they were still insistent and I kept saying there was no television in the room, only 3 washing machines and 4 tumble driers. So they said they would come to inspect the "flat". They told me they would write to "3 washing machines and 4 tumble driers" to arrange an appointment.
Well, after I stopped laughing, I managed to convince the guy that it was not a staffed launderette (where someone might watch a television) but merely a facility for residents to come and do their own washing (and what's more, get out of there as quickly as possible.)
Okay, so he accepted that, but he told me that they would send out another letter demanding payment in 2 or 3 years time to ensure circumstances had not changed!
You could not make it up.
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