Books by MARILYN L RICE

            

Hello Everyone,

      

 Lady M here. I thought it was time to update you on all of MARILYN L. RICE'S  books.

Way back in 2001she published Time &Tide on her 50th birthday. This book is now out of print but second-hand copies are available on such places as eBay and Amazon.

                                                                    

'TIME AND TIDE' tells the story of Irene Joy Stephenson, born on January 1 1950. The Prologue sets the scene for her fiftieth birthday; chapter one goes back in time to her birth. She realizes that life is cruel at an early age when her mother attempts suicide and her brother dies on his first birthday. When she is ten the family move from a Nottinghamshire village to a country estate, owned by Lord Fordingham, where her father takes up the post of Estate Manager. She, and the gardener's son, Daniel become childhood sweethearts. They plan their future together; they both pass the 11+ examination and take up places at the local Grammar School. They are inseparable until he is killed in a car accident. She returns to school as a sixth-former, takes the 'A' level exams and then attends the local College of Education. In her final year she meets Philip White. They qualify as teachers and marry in 1972 before taking up posts in Birmingham. On her wedding night she realizes that it has all been a mistake. She does not love him but was infatuated by his similarity to Daniel. They drift apart; he has an affair with a sixth-former from his school. He and Irene divorce and he leaves the area with his pregnant girlfriend in disgrace. Irene is left devastated and alone again. Her Head of Department helps her pick up the pieces of her broken life. Their relationship develops; they marry and are happy but it is short lived. He has a tragic accident before he finds out he is to be a father. Irene returns to her parents at Fordingham and gives birth to a son who only lives for a few months. The local vicar tries to help her through the trauma. She becomes involved in the Church and eventually marries him. As the vicar's wife she feels that she has found her true vocation in life. In 1993 the Rev. Alistair Duncan finds that he cannot come to terms with female vicars. Priesthood for him is a male domain. His solution is to tell  the Bishop telling of his crisis of faith and his wish not to be found before disappearing. Irene spends the last years of the nineties just waiting for January 2000 when seven years after his desertion she will officially become a widow. She must carry on with her life in the new century because 'TIME AND TIDE' wait for no one'. Throughout the story, in the form of a diary written by Irene's mother, is a concise history of events, changes and discoveries during the second half of the twentieth century, possibly the most dynamic fifty years in our history.

No Regrets was published in 2003 and Stay in Touch in 2005. They are both available on the Internet or message her! 

                                                               

NO REGRETS

"When we meet the heroine, 30-something Joanna, she is newly divorced and trying to rebuild her life. We share her innermost thoughts, as she realises that she has to come to terms with being an available single woman for any predatory male among her neighbours and at the school where she teaches, a hotbed of professional and sexual duplicity. How she reconciles her new role in life, copes and fails to cope with the challenges, results in a diary-based novel startling in its frankness. Marilyn L Rice brings acute observation to her story which moves along at a pace, fully involving the reader. Many will identify with the agonising decisions facing professional women. This is reality in today’s world."  John Jenkins

STAY IN TOUCH

"Just what can drive a woman to murder? Or even three murders? Men. How can she become a serial killer, undetected and rich on the proceeds of her crimes? It all seems so simple for Christabelle after failed marriages to a homosexual and a bigamist. She confides only so much to her best friend as they recall their youthful wishes and dreams. If you have ever written down 50 things you intend to do before 30,40 or 50 you will understand and marvel at this black comedy.

Marilyn L Rice has written a story which races along with the pace of a thriller yet shrewdly observes the problems facing women today and a terrifying solution of how they can be overcome.

And when you have finished the book the story will stay long in your mind...whether you are a woman - or even more so if you are a man."   John Jenkins

In 2007, she launched her fourth book, Look After Each Other. It became the first in the Sofia trilogy although when she wrote it she was not sure it would work. 

The idea for this book was to interweave three things. The inspiration, came from events in her life. She once had the misfortune to meet a gentlemen whose sole aim in life was to complain and find fault. She  always had a strong relationship with her father and thirdly, had visited clairvoyants/mediums. What if? Could she work with a plot involving these three ideas and a lot of 'what if's?  It worked!

"Sofia Haslington is a 36-year-old mother and housewife kept under the thumb of her priggish, anal-retentive husband, Derek. Living by a second-to-second timetable and under strict rules enforced by her husband, Sofia decides to visit a well-respected clairvoyant, hoping for a bit of respite from her otherwise dreary existence. But what she is surprised to learn that day not only changes her life...it changes her. "

                                                               

(The hardback cover)

 SOFIA'S LEGACY

"This book answers the question," Is there 'life' after death?" Sofia has died, but come back from "upstairs" to watch her funeral. What a revelation! To be able to see and hear what people were saying about her now that she was dead and they had no idea she could see and hear them. And Derek? Well, if ever there was a hypocrite it's Derek. Her father, Scott was with her and while Derek was, trying to be the centre of attention, reading a passage from 1 Corinthians at the crematorium, Scott blew smoke rings in his face. He tried to shout above the smoke rings. It was hilarious..."

And, completing the trilogy,  book SIX, 

LOVE YOU FOREVER

Five years have passed. It is 2010. The reader sees how dramatic and unimaginable events have changed the lives of everyone Sofia left behind at Haslington Towers. Even more surprising events occur that lead to devastating consequences. You really will have to read it! I am not going to give anything else away!
But to quote from the blurb,
 "This stunning book series delves into karma, the afterlife, and more things in heaven and earth than you have ever dreamed!"

                                                  

All the trilogy are available from the publisher’s website:  http://sbprabooks.com/MarilynLRice  

Amazon, online retailers or paperback copies from the author. Just email for signed copies to marilynlrice@talktalk.net

The first two are in eBook format and the final book will be soon.

LIFE IS...

Published as a result of postings on Facebook! I think that answers a popular question of where do authors get their inspiration from!

                                                        

The Blurb

"I like most people on the planet, have become a great fan of social media and in particular, Facebook. During the last six months I have been posting daily. Firstly, it was 'Words of Wisdom' and then I moved on to 'Life is…' Some of my thoughts were philosophical, others humorous. Sometimes I added photographs and emojis or I dedicated certain sayings to individual people. On a couple of occasions I even added a short story telling the inspiration behind the quotation, for example…'Life is about turning left instead of right and having an adventure!'
I noticed that I was getting a lot of those 'like' clicks and friends seemed to be enjoying my humble daily offering. I had an idea… put all of my posts into a short book and publish them. I have placed one of the 'Words of Wisdom' on each page and the' Life is…' quotations follow with some illustrations, either photographs from my albums or downloads from the Net under creative commons licence. All the acknowledgements may be found at the end of the booklet after information on my books.
I hope that those of you who download this will delve into it on the dark days and find that it puts the smile back on your face.
How would I describe it? Humorous, philosophical, satirical, stimulating, inspirational, illuminating, intriguing, thought-provoking, fresh, invigorating and delightful.
Enjoy!"

Published as an eBook only on Kindle

 THE SINGING HORSES

                                               

                                 

                                      

"The uproarious saga of the singing horses begins when they leave the paddock in Alabama and travel to Memphis for votes because they all want to win The Best Equine Author of the Year contest. Although they’re competing to win, they work together in the entertainment industry as the famous singing horses’ troupe. They are widely known for their escapades throughout the United States and Europe, causing mayhem wherever they go. Each horse has a number and a special talent, such as #00, the dancing queen, #23, a ballerina and filly friend of #7 who is related to the racing legend, Red Rum. They ride on the Orient Express to Venice, where they face the paparazzi who chase them, so they go into hiding. The paparazzi put up a €10,000 reward for information on them. A McDoodles employee takes a photo of #7 eating chips and sends it to the paparazzi, forcing them to gallop away again. They flee to Moscow, on to Athens and then to the donkey sanctuary in Cyprus, all the while performing and neighing for votes. During the long wait for the announcement of the final ten authors, they travel to New Orleans, where they enjoy numerous cocktails and much merriment. Ultimately, the announcement of the winner is a big surprise to everyone but the judges! The remaining contestants refuse to leave their lovely paddock and stage a neigh-in. Bulldozers and diggers arrive to destroy the paddock, but the paparazzi stand in protest with the equine."

The Singing Horses is a delightful story full of hilarious adventures to delight readers of all ages."   Out of print but copies still available from the author. Please leave a message.

                                                                        

THE SAD LITTLE FOAL

                                                                 

This story was written not by a human but a small orphan foal, #7, who has little legs, is only eight hands high, and loves chips. We think it is based on his life with fantasy as are most stories. Have you ever read anything written by a young member of the equine community? #7 entered his foal story in a competition. He was delighted when Mr. J. invited him to ‘The Paddock’ to take part in a contest for a much coveted prize - a publishing contract and the title, “Best Equine Author of the Year”. The story of that contest is THE SINGING HORSES. #7’s foal story, THE SAD LITTLE FOAL, caused the website to crash as every human and equine wanted to read his manuscript. Now it is published all may read it. It is about a foal meeting his mama for the first time, falling asleep by her side. When he wakes his mama has gone. He is very sad and waits for her to return. Alas, she is in equine heaven. This little foal waits for his papa to come and teach him all the little foal things he needs to know. He’s surprised to discover his papa is a celebrity… In this book, THE SAD LITTLE FOAL  you may read information regarding the author, an introduction about the story before you read it, the foal story, two chapters from THE SINGING HORSES, extra information about the special equine language and etiquette. Finally, and naturally information about the author’s other books. Enjoy.

Suitable 8 -99! Only available as an eBook at the moment and from Amazon

The Sad Little Foal: A magical moving horse story for all ages. eBook : Rice, Marilyn L: Amazon.co.uk: Kindle Store

The author frequently sees secondhand copies online! 

Happy reading to all of my followers.

Love Lady M xxxxx

One year on ….#7 neighs about the Meghan interview

 

Hello Everyone,

I was scrolling through the archives and looked back to this week last year. Can you believe it is a year since we experienced this drama? Since then, Meghan has continued to make herself headline news on occasions. It seems she does not like to be ignored for long and prefers to be in the starring role. Alas, a month later we lost Prince Philip. He joined the love of my life, Captain Sir Tom! The Singing Horses are still singing. If you have not got your copy yet, where have you been? Through all of this our lovely Queen soldiers on and on 6th February reached a milestone, her Platinum anniversary of accession to the throne and a secure place in our history as the longest serving monarch exceeding Queen Victoria by six years. In a couple of months we will have a long weekend of celebrating her achievement. Long may she reign!

                                 *********************************************

Neigh everyone, #7 here.

I have been having a rest because I only have little legs, and I tire easily. I have hoofed Lady M's weekly humble offerings, and have pleaded with her to let me host this week's blog. I am the singing horses' mascot. It is a role I love and hosting on here is another role I enjoy. We, equine, listen to all your news. Sometimes, we question human sanity while on other occasions you amaze us. The item which has attracted our attention in the last days has been the bombshell interview with Meghan and Harry. So, I neighed about this with #5 and #6 and they agreed that I should hoof Lady M's version of it on here. 

                                           

Day 351 Tuesday 9^th March, (Lockdown 3/ Day 64)

Good morning Peeps, candle, and pigeons. Okay, I am up, the sun is shining, and I am ready to face another day. Downstairs. Alarm off. Kitchen. Kettle on. Cereals in dish. Outside. It is quite warm for March. Refuge has collected the recycling material. Collect bin from the pavement. Pesky pigeons know my every move. They are ready and waiting on the fence. Two today. They stare and glare and coo coo, “Food. Food”. I surrender and put food on their table. They wait until they hear me lock the door and then they swoop for breakfast.

Inside, I take my breakfast into the lounge. Tv on. Watch pigeons through the window. There is only going to be one main item of news today. Last night’s interview was described as a ‘bombshell’ interview. If you are not aware of it are you visiting Mars? I made notes for you. Apparently, the setting was at neither Oprah nor Meghan’s mansion although they live at different ends of the same road in LA. It was somewhere in between at a friend’s home. Meghan began chatting and Harry joined her later. Why? I have no idea particularly as he was watching it from somewhere inside. Maybe Meghan wanted a solo role as an actress. She began by saying that she had met the Queen at a family lunch with Andrew, Fergie, and the princesses at Royal Lodge, Windsor. As they arrived Harry asked her if she knew how to curtsey. This surprised her as it was not a formal occasion but lunch with his grandmother. But she learned to do a deep curtsey quickly, taught by Harry. Meanwhile, the need to curtsey must have crossed Sarah’s mind or maybe she remembered her first lunch with the Queen. Meghan told of how she rushed out of the house and asked the same question. Could she curtsey correctly. So, even at family lunch you curtsy to the Queen. Memory alert. My friends, do you recall how I learned to curtsey in front of Princess Margaret for my graduation? That was a ‘bob’ curtsey. I can still see the dean trotting to the centre of the stage and showing us how it was done.  Short, sweet, and respectful. I guess it is nice to think that such things still happen in our modern-day society when so many things have been ousted.

Oprah asked was she silent or silenced. She was silenced. She showed respect for the Queen and the family throughout, the Queen made her feel welcome, but talked of the two teams, family and Institution. Where have we heard this before? From both the Duchess of York and the late Princess Diana. Does this mean that the Institution have learned nothing? Another question, did she really make Kate cry before her wedding? The media made much of this. Meghan said that it was the reverse. Kate forced her to tears over some issue and later apologised. The Institution reversed it. There were different standards for her and Kate. Her biggest regret was that she did not receive protection from the Firm. Other members of the Royal family received protection, but she did not. She experienced racism, loneliness, lies told about her to protect other members of the Royal family, constant criticism, suicidal feelings, and mental health issues. She asked for help, but it was not forth coming. When pregnant she learned there would be no title for her child and a member of the RF asked Harry what colour skin he thought the child would have. This person has not been identified but Harry has stated that it was neither of his grandparents. The comment left Oprah speechless, her face was aghast for several seconds before she uttered, “What?” I am wondering if this has all been taken out of context. She is of mixed race and he is white. In such marital situations it is a fact that the offspring may be white or not. However, from the information she received she clearly felt that her child would be treated differently from his or her cousins because of race. William and Kate’s children are all HRH princes and princess. But there are historical reasons for this, dependent on where they are in line to the throne. I think, from listening to a historian this morning, that only the children and grandchildren of the monarch are given HRH Prince(ss) titles. This means that Harry’s children would or could receive such titles when his father becomes the monarch. Prince George was given the title due to his direct accession to the throne and the Queen intervened giving his sister and brother the same titles. Meghan admitted that she did not research the Royal family but relied on Harry to guide her with regard to duties. As an American she did not learn about it in school and had little knowledge prior to her relationship with him. I think she should have done more research and then would have had less expectations of the grandeur and been more aware of the exhaustion and demands of the job. She would have realised that it was a different type of acting and she would not take the star role. Also, would have been aware of how the titles are bestowed on individuals and it has nothing to do with race. She also claimed that she and Harry were married by the Archbishop of Canterbury three days before the official wedding day. Truth or fiction? Will the Archbishop be asked? If this is fiction what about the rest of it? Remember, she is an actress.

Harry joined her and we learned from him that our Queen is soon to have another great granddaughter. Harry moved to Canada, then to LA when he realised that his security had been removed by the Firm. This was because of his change in status, he was no longer a senior Royal even if he was the Queen’s grandson. Harry was concerned about the safety of his family and feared history would repeat itself, but it would be more dangerous than in Diana’s day because of social media and racism. He did not blindside the Queen. That info came from the Institution. There was a time when his father would not take his calls. He would not have stepped back from his Royal position if it had not been for Meghan. He was trapped by the system but did not realise it at the time. He was fortunate to be able to step away. His father and brother are trapped in the system. He was asked what he thought his mother would think about it. He thought she would be angry at how it has all panned out. He was cut off by his family and without the money from Diana he would have been broke. He will always be on good terms with the Queen. There was a lot of work to do with his father. His brother? They have been through a lot together. Now it is a time for space, but time is a healer. He is sad at what has happened but confident that he did everything he could in the situation.

The final question was she both surviving and thriving now after her comment after the South Africa tour that it was not enough to just survive. An ecstatic, smiling Meghan replied, “Yes”. I still think, and you may disagree, that this is what she wanted all along. She is back home in America as a duchess. She is annoyed that she is not the mother of a prince. She dislikes being ignored but likes being the star of the show. She was in the leading role and has managed to embarrass or even outrank the Queen in her starring role. If she really had respect for our country and the monarchy, she would have remained silent. They left this country because they wanted privacy so why do this? Who wears the trousers in the relationship? It looks to me like Meghan. Harry does as he is told. Why was he not with her from the start of this interview? Was he ordered to stay in doors? That is food for thought.

Newsflash. The Queen has broken her silence and issued a statement “The whole family is saddened to learn the full extent of how challenging the last few years have been for Harry and Meghan. The issues raised, particularly that of race, are concerning. While some recollections may vary, they are taken very seriously and will be addressed by the family privately. Harry, Meghan and Archie will always be much loved family members.” Well done, Ma’am. Once again, she has acted with dignity and handled a tricky situation with tact and diplomacy.

I, for one, now want to put this issue to bed and leave Meghan to hopefully get on with her life away from the limelight.

Oh dear. Piers Morgan is one of Meghan’s victims. Now his programme is too early in the morning for Moi but apparently yesterday he said that he did not believe she had been close to suicide. There were 41,000 complaints. This morning he walked out of his show and tonight we hear he has left for good. But, so long as Meghan has got her own way and is happy! Did she think about the possible consequences of the interview? Probably.

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We are still neighing about it! Remember you can read all about us by purchasing our book from The Singing Horses | Book| Austin Macauley Publishers or your local Amazon Market Place #thesinginghorses 

Love you all, #7 🐴🐎🐎🐎🐎🐴🐴

Pandemic. Plan B

 

Neigh, #7 still here.

Do you like the pic? It looks a lot like us. I found it in Lady M's archives. We, equine, are happy and relaxed animals. We take life as it comes. Humans have learnt a lot from us over the years. You can read all about us in Lady M's book "The Singing Horses" We are available from #amazon, the Internet, libraries, bookshops. If you live in England, in the Midlands we are on show at the Blue Sheep Books shop in Wednesbury. Pop along and treat yourself. Allegedly, restrictions in England are coming to an end soon. So, this will be the last time I will be neighing you from her Covid Chronicles. Enjoy!

Day 663, Saturday 15^th January 2022, (Day 47, Plan B) The end is in sight. Light at the end of the tunnel!

 It’s the weekend. Apparently, it was very foggy last night and this morning? Really? It was beautiful and sunny when I rose earlier today. Oh, it’s afternoon now. However, When I came downstairs and opened the curtains Mrs Pigeons was looking for me. I obeyed her glare and went outside into the January sunshine. I took seed outside for her and hubby. She flew to the fence and stared. Ah, I understood. Coo! Coo! There was a large block of ice on the top of the water, and she was thirsty. I, being a kind person, removed it for her. I came back into the kitchen for my brekky, and she flew to her table for her breakfast, Hubby joined her. So, all is well in my garden.

It is Saturday. I put the BBC news channel on. What is this? Our Booster Boris has been in isolation since Thursday as someone in his family had a positive Covid test. Is this totally true or is he in hiding? The Labour leader and even Tory supporters are demanding that he must go. More revelations of parties in Downing Street. I am wondering if there was ever a time when they didn’t party during our lockdown. They had ‘wine time’ Friday while Covid rules were in place. It sounds like our country has been run by a load of party revellers or alcoholics. It doesn’t inspire confidence in our government, does it?

 One person was interviewed because he had a bar in his garden. No law against that but during lockdown he was feeling low, like the rest of us. Three friends came and joined him one evening for drinks. Did they social distance? There was plenty of room. I don’t know but a law-abiding citizen phoned the police. They arrived and the four of them were fined. At the time, they thought… fair enough! Now, they are wondering if they should demand their money back. During the first lockdown it was rather like prohibition days. Peeps would have lock-in parties and if caught the fine was a maximum of £10,000. Numerous peeps were fined. How many will demand a refund or insist on our politicians paying the maximum fine of £10,000 each?

 Enough, time to look at essential item…tv mag. Ah, ‘On the buses’, a great comedy film from the 70’s. That suits me for the rest of the morning.

 Okay must make some effort today. Tv off until later. Time to potter and remove the Christmas décor form the dining room. Then, I guess I will have to flitter round with my feather duster and wander round the house until I discover where the vacuum cleaner is hiding. Be back later.

 What is newsworthy this afternoon? Our #1 tennis player is back in detention in Australia. His visa has been revoked. The Judge decided on this action after protests regarding his anti-vaxxer attitude. Will he play in the Australian Open next week? Will he be allowed to defend his title? Your guess is as good as mine.

 There has been a tsunami in Tonga in the South Pacific. We seem to have had a lot of those in the last fifteen years or so. I don’t remember any prior to 2004. Interesting.

 We are excited locally because the Commonwealth Games will be going ahead from the 28^th of July and hosted here in Birmingham. Covid will not stop us. Neither will it stop the plans for our Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. Events are planned from 6^th of next month, the day of her succession to the throne. Do you know, my friends, there was actually a King on the throne when I was born but as the only Monarch, I have ever know is our lovely Queen, I find it hard to believe. ‘The Queen’s Green Canopy’ has been in operation since May of last year and was set up, with the aim of planting trees during this period to commemorate her Jubilee and to increase and protect the native tree cover. Nice, isn’t it?

 Playing time. Then dinner and another quiet night in.

 Day 664, Sunday 16^th January 2022, (Day 48. Plan B)

 Greetings, my friends. All is well. I have been out and fed the pigeons. Sunshine. I am having a lazy day. but I will give you my traditional Covid update.

 Oh, Novak Djokovic is on a plane back to Serbia. He has been deported, visa revoked and will not be playing in the tournament. The decision to deport him was made on the grounds of health and good order. His anti-vaxxer principle may well cost him future tournaments.

 Covid! Things are getting better for us, in the UK, both our case figures and death statistics are falling as a result of the high number in our population being jabbed. 70,924 cases with 88 deaths.  However, we are still at #4 in the global league table with total case figure at 15,217,280. France at #5 appears to be in a worse situation, 14,000,000+ total cases and today’s figure 278,129. That is more than India who are in the second position globally. The US remain in the lead with 66,995,553 total cases, almost twice that of India (37,380,253) Then, remember, my friends, I frequently question how accurate these figures are and feel that in reality they should be doubled.

 Tomorrow is Blue Monday. So, what do we have to do? Stay cheerful!

Day 665, Monday, 17^th, January 2022 (Year 2, Week 97, Day 49 Plan B. Whatever)

                                           BLUE MONDAY!

 Greetings from myself, pigeons, and Wheelie Bins. All of my family wish you a happy Monday. I confess I was late waking up this morning and feeling blue. Psychological because I know it is ‘Blue Monday’. I had to give myself a good talking to. I told all my aches and pains to go away. Sunshine was streaming through the drapes. Happiness is a state of mind. I smiled. Right! Out of bed! Stroll into other rooms. Life is good. I am lucky (well, I will be if I win the lottery). Get a move on, girl. Soixante-neuf et deux is perilously close. I must enjoy the life I have left. Things to do.

 Downstairs. Brekky. Gyles Brandreth is on the box talking of happiness and this blue Monday. He is giving advice. Things like create a passion. Go out. Be a leaf. That one fooled me. He explained that leaves stay on tree as individuals but when they fall to the ground they die. Clever. Basically, he agrees with me. It is up to ourselves to be happy. Happiness is from within.

 Why is it ‘blue Monday’ when the sun is shining, the grass is green, buds on the trees, buses are passing by, although not many passengers travelling? Well, I guess some peeps have snow, rain and cold. Anyway, it is because it’s three weeks after Christmas, the bills are coming in, festivities are over, and gloom follows. In addition, these days we have the Covid factor which has resulted in unexpected fatalities, job losses, evictions, financial issues when Rishi’s magic beans failed to arrive.

 Tv mag. Yes, “Guess who’s coming to dinner” is on Channel 51 this afternoon. I shall watch it. Why? It’s got that drop-dead gorgeous guy starring in it. Sidney Poitier. It’s a golden oldie from 1967 and poignant highlighting the racial problem of the day. Oh, wait a minute. No- one has problems now, do they? I should say it addresses the issue. If you haven’t seen it, it is about an eminent man of colour falling in love with a white woman which shocks both families. The language, attitudes etc would not pass the censorship for films these days. It’s fantabulous!

 Okay. Get moving. Routine. Chores completed by 3.00pm. Film. Then, routine, take out Miss Bugsy Blue and Mrs Grisly Grey and converse with neighbour. A good point. The early evening is getting lighter.

 What is newsworthy? Wow! Do I not always say that you get away with nothing in life? Today, the 66 year old, Paul Shakespeare, has been sentenced for the crime of rape he committed over 30 years ago. He moved on with his life, even moved 250 miles away and judging by the look on his face when the police arrived at his home last year to arrest him, he had forgotten all about it. Got away with it. Wasn’t he clever? DNA! A sample was taken at the time, but DNA was in its infancy then and there was no match on record. As a result of another crime and Paul’s DNA was taken and hey presto! A match!

 Princes Harry and Andrew are in the news again and seem to be there more frequently than the rest of the Royals who are still ‘Royal’. Prince Harry is planning on coming back to England with his children this year presumably for the Jubilee celebrations. He is concerned about protection and wants to pay for the Royal protection squaddies to look after him and his children. Alas, not possible. It’s all to do with red-tape and legalities. He is not a working Royal and therefore is not entitled to it. Neither can it be paid for. Is Meghan coming? Doesn’t sound like it. As for Andrew, Jeffrey, and Miss Maxwell. Well, Jeffrey went for sword rather than dishonour allegedly committing suicide in jail. Miss Maxwell is awaiting her sentence. Why? When she is unlikely to see the light of day again. Andrew? Facing a civil court case in New York having been stripped of Royal titles and dignity? He will face the court as an ordinary man and not a prince. Maybe, that is what it is all about. Retaliation. Virginia Giuffre just wanted him to lose everything. Guess we will find out in time.

 A more serious problem has hit the headlines tonight. Life in Kabul under the Taliban ruling. The reporter showed us families homeless, in financial despair and without food for the winter. Snow on the ground and children with bare feet. Dismal. Aid should have got through to these people. Alas. No. One man is even selling his daughter because he cannot care for her.

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Aw, that is so sad. A papa selling his daughter because he cannot look after her. Sad. We neigh you a happy week ahead. Brighter days are coming. Stay positive and happy. The Singing Horses love you all.

                                        The Singing Horses | Book | Austin Macauley Publishers 

                                                         

 Neigh, #7!

Plan B

 

                                                         

Neigh, #7 here,

At last I am back and from all the equine community I neigh you 'A Happy New Year'. We all enjoyed ourselves in our new Oklahoma home. Remember, you may read all about us in Lady M's book, THE SINGING HORSES. The Singing Horses | Book | Austin Macauley Publishers. #exciting, #adventure #escapism #gift 

We equine know about things in the human world and watch your behaviour with interest. We find you amusing. This week, I am bringing you Lady M's account of Day 657 of your pandemic. #enjoy

Day 657 Sunday, 09 January 2022, (Plan B Day 41) Songs of Praise Day.

 

I was so pleased this morning when my eyes opened at their usual time. 9.30 am. I beheld sunshine through the drapes/curtains. Yes, smile. Much better than yesterday. Out of bed. Look out. All is good. Free parking on Tesco’s car park therefore our little street is deserted. Beautiful. Downstairs. Cereals and first cuppa.

 

Time to be brave. Coat on. Shoes on. Go outside, feed pigeons, put recycling material in Miss Bugsy Blue Wheelie. Shocked. That Mr Sunshine is deceiving. He is still blinding me but… it is cold. Never mind. I will still clear some of the things out of the garage store. Take Mrs Grisly Grey round to the front and prepare. Back inside. Close up the back of my mammoth property in case I get an intruder while at the front. Collect car key. Out of the front. Open garage. Little car excited. She thinks we are going on a little jaunt. Oh dear. Disappointed. She is just parked on the road. Time to pick up some of the rubbish from the front garden and then a few items that have been stored needlessly into the waste bin ready for their disposal by the refuse department on Tuesday. (That will be Day 43 of Plan B). Return car to garage ignoring her disappointed tantrum. Lock garage. Inside. Remove coat and shoes. Time for the well-earned second cuppa. Relax. It’s not even noon yet!

Hey, those buds on the trees are deffo getting larger. Leaves will be coming soon. I did observe while collecting the rubbish from the front that I have shoots growing through the bark. I will have pretty flowers, too, soon. Isn’t nature wonderful?

 

Next thing today. Songs of Praise. The theme is baptism, as it is baptism Sunday, and brought to us by Sean Fletcher. A lot of hymns which I enjoyed and sang along with joy. In particular, O Jesus I have promised to serve thee to the end… Memory alert. The first time I sang that after my confirmation in 1965, and fully aware of its meaning. Yes, it was in Holy Trinity Church in that little Derbyshire village I have frequently referred to, Ashford-in the-Water. I remember the Bishop confirming me into the Church of England, and then taking my first communion at the altar rail. I remember the white dress I had specifically for that purpose and how different I felt after that first taking of the bread and wine. I had freely taken a vow to live my life as a Christian and that meant putting Jesus first, then others before myself. Or as someone recently described it. JOY! Jesus, Others, Yourself. Fifty-seven years ago. My life, probably like yours, my friends, has been a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, good times and bad but through it all I have held fast to my faith and promise. I was flattered a few years ago when one of my Sikh neighbours told me I was the most Christian person he had ever encountered. Maybe, I’ve got it right. Well, at least some of the time!

 

Earlier in this pandemic I probably told you of my humble, but unsuccessful attempt at Origami. That is high on my list for this year. I intend mastering it if it is the last thing I do.  More recently, thinking of my spiritual and psychic side I purchased a crystal ball. I have had one unsuccessful attempt at looking in it. I, also intend getting the hang of that this year. Stay tuned, my friends.

 

The weather today 6° or 43°. I prefer the latter, but it is still too cold for Moi!

 

3.00pm. Lunchtime. Chicken and mushroom pie with a vanilla latte while watching the classic film, Jane Eyre on the Classic channel. Oh, Mr Rochester and Grace Poole. It’s a black and white classic, (1943) but it is still a film depicting the time of writing. I just love watching that, what is now, primitive way of life. Whether I would have liked it is another matter. No Motorways, traffic jams, mobile phones, television, fridge-freezers or washing machines. Just a slower life eating the seasonal food, accepting life for what it was. I love the dresses as well.

News. What is happening in the world today?

 

In America the great Golden Globes ceremonies begin in Los Angeles. However, no red carpet, no stars present, no glamour, not even televised. Changing times.

 

While we were enjoying the ‘personal responsibility’ approach to Covid after our shackles had been removed in July, there were big changes in Afghanistan. America withdrew its military forces, and Britain followed. The Taliban took advantage of the situation and were in control again. Panic and despair ensued. Chaos and confusion as thousands with UK or US passports descended on Kabul airport to escape before the deadline in August. They feared for their lives if they remained beyond the deadline. Alas, it was not possible to get all of them out in time. In all of the chaos a baby became separated from its family, was handed to a US soldier, then lost but found in the airport on the floor crying by a taxi driver. He took him home where he and his family looked after him. He would have brought him up as his own if the child’s family could not be located.  After five months the boy has been reunited with his grandfather still in Afghanistan, his parents have been able to see him via video links. They are now in Texas and hope that their son will be joining them soon. Don’t you just love a happy ending and one where you can see the kindness of strangers?

 

At least twenty-two tourist are dead after becoming stranded in their vehicles as a metre of snow fell overnight in North-East Pakistan. What an awful way to die. Freezing in your car with no escape.

 

Kazakhstan! Apparently, 5,000 peeps have been arrested over the last few days because of rioting over the rising price of fuel. I didn’t even know it was happening.

 

Here in the UK, there is talk of reducing the isolation period, if testing positive, from 7 to 5 days. This would ease the problem of staff absence. Our case figure today is 141,472 with 97 deaths. Not bad. Looking good unless you are one of the fatalities. It is the lowest figure of the week. Two days ago, Friday, we had 313 deaths. Things are getting better. What is the global figure? We have passed the 300 million mark and now have 307,862,252 total cases. The death figure has passed 5.5 million and stands at 5,505,967. The US is at the top of the league (61+ million) followed by India (35+ million) and then Brazil (22+ million). We remain in fourth position with 14,475,192. Almost 14.5 million total cases. France is catching up with alarming speed, at 12+ million. It’s scary.

 

I think that is enough from me for today. I am going to enjoy my evening. I hope you will all do the same. Best wishes and stay safe. Goodnight!

Neigh #7 

 

 

 

#7 neighs about Covid-19

 

Neigh #7 here,

I, and all of the singing horses, hope that you are #stayinghome and #stayingsafe . We are very concerned for all of you. I am only a little foal so I do not understand it all but those big stallions neigh it to me. It still puzzles me how a 'virus' can take control. This horse day I have chosen two days from Lady M's chronicles to share with you. What's a chronicle? I must hoof it in my hoofing dictionary.  Happy hoofing, my friends.

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Day 306 Saturday, 23 January 2021, (Lockdown 3/Day 19) ANOTHER WEEKEND

Good morning!

I looked out late last night. God is suffering from dandruff again. However, this morning it seems as if he has swept some of it up. There are still traces of that white stuff but much more greenery.

Feeling happy today. No real reason. (Blue bus going to the station. Empty). I think that those of us who survive this pandemic will be the lucky ones and the only way to survive is to accept the situation for what it is. Obey the rules. Stay home. Find things to do. Take up a new hobby. Reading. Writing. Origami. Whatever. Just stop complaining. You do not need a holiday abroad. Accept staycations. Think of the adage, “North, South, East or West. Home is best”. The fact that you are reading this means that you have a mobile phone, or Internet facilities. You have a home. Be thankful for that. Count your blessings.

It is 1.08. I am at the computer in my library. So far, this morning I have had porridge for breakfast because it’s cold. Pottered, worked, and played. Looking at films for this afternoon. Gonna take a break now. BBL.

2.12pm. Wow! White stuff falling! God needs to change his shampoo!

Just completed day 19 of my Marketing Challenge. I have updated my Amazon Author Page. To be honest I had forgotten I had one. You see, it is amazing what you remember when you take up a challenge as well as what you can learn. Please go to Amazon, put any of my book titles in with my name or you could be scrolling through a hundred pages. At the bottom of the details, it says “Follow the author”. There is a pretty pic of Moi. Click on it. Read all about it and even be a follower. Incidentally, the Amazon ratings are mysterious to all, but one thing is definite. The more peeps click on to look at the details the higher the ranking. So, my friends, be kind to me, keep clicking!

Lunch next and the afternoon movie.

Okay. Lunch was my surprise soup. Golden vegetable. If you are new to these postings and wondering about surprise soup it is like this… I take about 30 packets and mix them up in a box and just pick one out. It makes lunch more exciting and also prevents me having to make a big decision.

The afternoon movie was “Never Say Goodbye”. An oldie. You know I love those best because I am one of life’s veterans. It was set in the war years. A surgeon thinks his wife is dead until she walks back into his life. Beautiful and with a happy ending.

Dinner. Pork chops with eggs, carrots, mushrooms, and jacket potato with vino. And another normal evening. Back tomorrow.

 Day 307 Sunday January 24^th, 2021, (Lockdown 3/ Day20)

Wow! It is about 10.00 am. Time to leave the place of my slumber. Count my blessings and stay positive and happy throughout another day. Today is “Songs of Praise” day and that puts a smile on my face. Venture into back room. Look out of window. Double wow! God sure does have a problem. That white stuff is about an inch deep out there. Positivity. It looks pretty. Front window. The same. Take pics of virgin snow for FB, Twitter and Instagram. Dress. Downstairs. Say good morning to the candle. Am I going outside? Don’t be silly! Kitchen. Kettle on. Porridge day. Cold. Temperature 0°. Brekky. Annoyed. Really annoyed. Beyond really. “Songs of Praise” has moved to BBC2. Why? Football matches are being shown on BBC 1.  Peeps are going to see their idols hugging each other. What are they going to do? Certainly not obey instructions of ‘hands, face, space’.  Actions have consequences. Case numbers and deaths are severe. Showing football matches is giving the wrong message.

So, how to spend today. Television. Potter. Play. Work. Just another Groundhog Day with snow on the ground. Treat? Pizza for dinner. Afternoon film? “84 Charing Cross Road” Another oldie. I have seen this one before, but I like it. Also, gotta finish a Clockmaker game before midnight to get big reward.

What is happening in the outside world beyond the snow? Oh, snowball fighters are being threatened with fines. Throwing snowballs contravenes Covid-19 rules. Joe Biden has attended his first Mass as President. I notice Trump has faded into oblivion. How long will it last? A man with his ego, even if he has been silenced on social media, cannot stay out of the limelight for long. Wow! A man in California has died, he tested positive for Covid-19, was given the vaccine but passed away an hour later. For Moi, that rings alarm bells. Experts are saying they do not know how long immunity will last after the vaccine. Neither are they sure how successful it will be for the new strains. Also, in the UK, a decision by someone was made not to give the second dose after three weeks as instructed by the manufactures but to leave it for twelve weeks enabling more peeps to have the first dose. Will that prevent immunity for those already vaccinated? (Bus alert. Mini blue bus with one passenger heading for town. Second empty blue bus following.)

“Songs of Praise” time. Aled Jones is hosting today from Windsor Chapel. Lots of lovely old hymns and memories of historic occasions.

Back to the computer and Clockmaker. Ring. Ring. Telephone. A nice break as I chat to someone else, I met in Cyprus. Memories.

It’s surprise soup and film time. BBL.

5.00pm. Looking out of library window. Wow! Neighbours are making the biggest snowman they can from the white stuff lingering on the ground. They even have a bin (grey one, household waste) to stand on. Pic later. The film was great. Lunch was golden veg again.

Okay. Time to look at those figures. My weekly update. Have we reached the one hundred million? Not quite. Globally, 99,544,378. Last week it was 95,173,803. So, that’s 4.5 million more. Things are not getting any better, are they? I predicted the milestone figure as between today and Tuesday. Looks like it is gonna be tomorrow. Here, in the UK, we are at 3,647,463. Russia is at 3,719,400. We are in danger of overtaking them and becoming #4^th globally. If we ever pass America’s figure… well most of us will be pushing up daisies.

Downstairs. Pizza and television. “Dancing on Ice” is back. I love the music. That’s followed by a new edition of “Who want’s to be a Millionaire” without an audience. Then, a new drama, “Finding Alice”. I’ll be back later to finish that Clockmaker game before midnight.

 Neighbours snowman!

#7 still here. They neigh me to remind you that you can hoof all about us at

 The Singing Horses | Book| Austin Macauley Publishers

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