Our last tango

 

Us in 1960

And now in 2022

Hello Everyone,

I had an incredible experience earlier this month…school reunion. It was amazing. I’d like to think it was because I instigated it and was the main organiser. No, I could not have done it alone. It was such a worthwhile event that I have written about it for others to possibly share the experience.

We moved to the beautiful village of Ashford-in-the-Water in March 1960. In those days there was easy access across Sheepwash and Hyde Bridges, both now closed to traffic. The village was a self-sufficient and supportive community. It was those golden days when everyone knew everyone else and people were happy to leave the house without locking the door. There were two pubs, three shops and a Post Office, a red phone box (still present but redundant), a fishmonger, a photographer, coal merchant, a tea-room, a recreation ground with swings, a cricket ground for the traditional Sunday afternoon match, a Police House with our own village bobby, a Hall, Memorial Institute, Methodist Church, Holy Trinity Church with a vicar who resided at the Vicarage and the C of E  primary school. Neither a holiday cottage nor second home insight.

Today’s moments are tomorrow’s memories. The photo of the school group in 1960 was taken by the late Mr McCrindle with a sophisticated camera for the era. He positioned us symmetrically and captured a moment of our idyllic salad days. If only we had realised then just how idyllic they were when the world was a different place. It was a moment we wanted to recapture 62 years later. There were 61 pupils and 3 staff. How did we do it? The arrival of social media, the fact that several had stayed locally was helpful and we had further assistance from The Peak Advertiser who kindly published an article about the event. We located 53 of our group and the youngest teacher, Miss Brocklehurst. Sadly, 7 had already passed away and 4 more left this mortal coil while we were making the arrangements. Only 8 could not be located, 5 were from the local children’s home and 3 seemed to have vanished.

We began planning and organising 18 months ago. It would have been in 2021 but like so many other events it was delayed due to Covid. Where did we start? Facebook! The place where one of the group had posted the photograph We set up a page and added people to it as we located them. Some were siblings or cousins. Find one and others follow. The initial problem was where to hold the event. The obvious place was the school so that the photo could be taken in the same place. Alas, those long gone days of primary education in the village when the local vicar would come in at 3.30 pm to end the day with a prayer are long gone. The school closed in 1988. This is where the sad reality dawned. The village has changed beyond belief. Most of what we knew or took for granted in 1960 had disappeared including one pub, two shops, photographer, police sergeant, fishmonger, coal merchant,  and the Methodist Church. Consequently, it was the third location choice, or to be more precise, the only option now available - The Memorial Institute. The whole event was planned round recapturing the photograph. Who would take the pic or several? Modern technology means that several would be clicking on phones and tablets throughout the event but one person’s husband agreed to taking the official ones. When? After much thought about the village’s geographical location and tourist situation neither winter nor summer would be good options. We were left with midweek in May or September. 

What type of event? We hoped for fine weather enabling the photo to be taken outside, so daytime as opposed to an evening function. We pondered over various possibilities. Finally decided on a three hour reunion from 12.00 noon until 3.00 pm. As the majority of people would be travelling a welcome refreshing drink would be offered between 12.00 and 12.30 prior to the photo shoot and then food and socialising. For those still in the village or living in the area the commuting was easy. In one or two cases it was a walk down the road. Others further afield planned either a day trip or a holiday period to spend a few days catching up with relatives. Six of our group were living abroad. Two returned mainly for the event. 

We widened the net and invited some who were at Ashford School in the fifties and knew or remembered many of the 61. As the time drew closer and we were in communication with each other, the excitement grew. Some of us had private meet-ups beforehand. I discovered that one other individual had been living about 20 miles away, and at one stage had been working round the corner from my home. Had we passed each other in the street? We met at a supermarket cafe for a good long chat, concluded that it was a small world and were both comforted by the thought that at least we would recognise someone on the big day. That was a question for most. Would we recognise those people who had been such a vital part of our lives all those years ago? Name tags had been suggested and were optional.

The day arrived. Wednesday, May 18th. Good fortune was on our side, it was a beautiful sunny day not a rain cloud in sight. The photo would be on the lawn in front of the Institute, an outside event. In the spirit of the event it was essential to use catering facilities from the village community. We thank ‘The Bull’s Head’ for doing the buffet for us, they provided a feast fit for royalty. I was salivating when all the dishes arrived. Also, It was imperative to remember those who were unable to be with us. Their names were on cards on a Memorial table with photographs, candles and flowers. In addition we had a copy of the school closure service, various photographs from school days on display and information regarding the event available by the door. 

Our Ashfordian buddies began arriving after 11.30 and congregated outside in the sunshine. It was magical as they easily recognised buddies they had not seen in decades. Hugs, smiles, laughter as conversational catch-ups began with those they never thought they would see again. Eventually, they ambled inside for drinks to welcoming relaxing music from the era. Many looking round the Institute trying to remember when they were last there. For me it was 1971. We also realised that at the same time in 1960, just after noon, we would have been walking through those doors for a school dinner. The conversations continued until it was time for the main event. The moment of recapture. Outside. We congregated as far as possible in the same positions as before. Clicking time and finally a thumbs up from our photographer indicating he was happy with the selection he had taken. Conversation continued as we ambled back inside for the buffet. Very different from school dinners. Each collected a plateful from the sumptuous feast and seated themselves round tables with old friends or family members they had not seen for some time. Phone numbers, email addresses swapped. Why had they drifted apart? It is what life does to all of us. When school days are over we drift through our lives moving to where work takes us. Family and new friends come along, old friends fade out. In our youth we looked forward. In our senior years we look back with both gratitude for what we had and hope for the future. Most spent some time looking at the Memorial table with their own memories of those who were unable to join us. Finally, it was time to leave. Was it all over? No, well not for all. Many walked down the road to the pub. It was a case of let the party continue because we have learnt that life is short. Most of us were born during the reign of King George V1. Our Queen is celebrating a 70 year reign and so we were reminded of our age and thankful to be together for one last tango. 

I have written this article because those of us in our later years have seen incredible and unimaginable changes in the world. Social media was unheard in the 1960’s. Not invented. Being social meant going to a party, disco or the pub. Many will have school photos in a box in the attic. Maybe, you have already found one, looked at it and cannot remember half the people or are wondering what happened to so and so who was your best buddy. Why did you not stay in touch? I would encourage you to post the photo on the Net and have your own reunion. Reconnect and enjoy the last tango.

Yours Lady M  xxxxxx

THE CHALLENGE!

Lady M loves champers!

 Hello Everyone,

Lady M here. I, like all I you, watch the news and feel over emotional, afraid, disbelief, sadness and despair. As I wrote last week, I just cannot believe what is happening in the Ukraine 🇺🇦 and my heart goes out to its people who are ‘lost’. Today, I shed tears as I saw a teenager being interviewed in Poland. Her father had spent 24 hours driving her to the border and safety. He was forced to return and fight for his country. They had said goodbye and she does not know if she will ever see him again. What if this were you? Could you bear it? First Covid restrictions and deaths, now this. Sadness permeates the world. We need happiness and positivity in order to survive.

With that thought in mind I am offering you THE CHALLENGE again.

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

So what makes you smile? What makes you happy? What do you enjoy? What makes you get up in the morning? What makes your life worthwhile?

Here are Lady M's favourite things that make her smile and decide that life is worthwhile and then she will challenge you. Think about Maria in “The Sound of Music”, when she is sad she thinks of her favourite things and then feels happier.

Tram riding, watching peeps and the world go by and book signing

First, beautiful books. She has the Charles Dickens collected works; the green leather bound edition bought in the early seventies. They were the first items she purchased when she started teaching, She paid for them over a period of time at £2 a month. She has not read all of them yet but they sit on the shelves in her lounge and she adores just looking at them. Then, there are all her other books amassed over the years in her upstairs library. They make her smile each morning. She loves all of her books especially the ones she writes. The proof copies all sit on the shelf by her fireside chair where she can admire them and smile at the achievement. There are peeps who say that books are a waste of money. She says, Philistines!


Then, there are childhood memories. It seems the older she gets the more she remembers them. She was brought up on a hundred acre country estate. Life in such a situation is hectic; always too much to do... livestock, gardens, the country house, land. All always needing attention and it was a case of all hands on deck 24/7. It's only in recent years that she realises how fortunate she was to have that experience and the memories.  Walking in the private woods. Rearing the pheasants (her responsibility!) Later she would hear the shooting and know they had met their fate; that was the way it was. Sitting by the boathouse reading books, (her favourite place.) Her lovely Jack Russell Terrier, Sally. Lambs taking their first bleat. Birthday parties and fun. The annual week's holiday at the seaside. Village life. Brownies. Guides. Sunday afternoon cricket matches. Chorister. Church bells on a Sunday morning. The smell of freshly mowed grass. The hum of the combine harvester.

Watching her father wash sheep here

Plants! In his latter years her father would bring her plants each time he visited. She now spends hours each spring, repotting and taking cuttings to keep his legacy alive. She still has one of the original plants from 1986 which refuses to die. It has been repotted three times, grows, is cut down and then regrows. Such fond memories of a devoted and perfect father. A man she idolised.

Other things which make her smile in her retiring years are the thoughts of ice cream, chocolate, pizza, chips, paninis, wine and more wine! Lattes, sunny days, warmth, jewellery, new clothes, bubble baths, candles, music, flowers, reading, board games, birds chirping in the trees heralding each new dawn, butterflies

What does she enjoy doing? Visiting the cinema, libraries, taking afternoon tea, tram riding, art galleries and museums. She has a thirst for knowledge and loves quizzes, learning anything new. She spends hours watching the pigeons and other feathered species feeding from her bird table. It is strategically placed so that she has the perfect view from her chair.

Food? Yes, please!

Holidays? Yes please. She hates the hassle of airports and getting to places but adores it when she reaches her destination. She loves experiencing foreign cultures. Her favourite place is Paphos and the harbour. It is her second home. Souvenirs? Oh yes. She buys fridge magnets from every place she visits. Then, in the mornings at home she can remember the wonderful places when she staggers to the fridge for milk in her coffee.

   

Paphos sunset

Another thing she likes is her little red car. It lives in its own apartment. Others call them garages. They have travelled many miles together and seen many beautiful sites.

She is a great believer in taking new experiences and adventures.

 

So, now that she has shared her personal delights with you she offers you... THE CHALLENGE!

Until next week, enjoy whatever it is you enjoy and tolerate the rest of your life.

Yours, Lady M 

                                                  

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 

 

 

 

Groundhog Day

Hello Everyone,

Yes! So happy. It is September 17th and my personal groundhog day. Traditionally, it is in February but if I could relive just one day for the rest of my life it would be September 17th, 1969.

Groundhog Day is February 2nd and the day when if the groundhog emerges from its burrow and sees its shadow it will be an early spring. If it does not see the shadow another six weeks of winter are in store for all. The film Groundhog Day features this day as the day which is repeated every twenty-four hours. The unfortunate weather man sees this whole thing as doom and gloom but eventually accepts that he will have to go through this miserable day for all eternity.

Why that day? Although, I didn't realise it at the time it was the happiest day of my life. Wedding day? Graduation? The day I gave birth? First job? None of those. It was the day I left home for College.

That morning was the beginning of a beautiful sunny, crisp, early autumn day. I remember the dew on the grass in the orchard next to our cottage. My father did the usual morning feed on the farm. My mother and I had packed the car ready. I had two cases in the boot, a weekend bag, train case and box on the back seat of our little red mini. Four years later, my father had to make four journeys to collect all of my possessions. We waited for father to come in for his breakfast before we left. I clearly remember saying goodbye to him but then while walking to the car I turned back, looked at him, and said, "Are you proud of me?" That is one of my most memorable moments with him. He nodded, smiled and said, "Yes". His glowing face spoke volumes.

We arrived at the College about 10.45 and went straight to my Hall of Residence. The Hall President, a second year student, met us and showed us to my room. By today's standards it was quite primitive but for 1969 it was one of the best. Many colleges had dormitories or students sharing rooms and all facilities were communal. This Hall was only two or three years old and built to accommodate the increasing number of students required to cope with the population increase as a result of the sixties baby boom. It was a single room with private wash-basin plus the best furniture and spacious. Kitchen and laundry facilities were communal. After unpacking we went down to the famous Crewe Station to use the photo booth. I needed pretty pics of me for such items as NSU card and meal card. Yes, all meals and accommodation were paid for by the Government unless you had really wealthy parents and then you would be expected to make a huge contribution. Everything was 'means' tested and parents made a contribution if they earned over a certain amount.

Next, we went up to the main town of Crewe, had a look round and lunch. My mother left about 2.30 and I watched others arrive. Early that evening we had a meeting and were told all about freshers week, college procedure and events before being taken over to the dining room for our first meal. That evening we were getting to know each other and our way around the place. It was so exciting. I could go through it all again and get the same pleasure from it. That College was flourishing then with 900+ students. I've heard that it closed in July 2019 due to falling numbers. Changing times!

So, that was my groundhog day. Which day is yours?

Love to you all on my fav day! Lady M xxxxxx

R.I.P Prince Philip Covid days 383/4

 

Hello everyone,

It was a sad weekend!

Day 383, Saturday, 10^th April 2021 (Lockdown 3/ Day 96)

Wake up. Grey miserable day. Remember. Sad. R.I.P Prince Philip. Struggle to force my old aching body out of bed. Saturday, BBC News Channel on. Only one item of news. Prince Philip. I wonder if the Queen is watching it? Okay. Face the day ahead. Must be more productive than yesterday. Dress. Downstairs. Alarm off. Lounge. Morning little candle! Yes, my little candle is still brightening up my morning. Second tv on. Kitchen. Kettle on. Cereals in bowl. Coffee. Collect pills for aching joints. Lounge. Brekky. iPad.

News. At 12.00 noon there will be a 41-death gun salute to respect Prince Philip. Meanwhile, the pics and the stories continue. There was one story which I really liked. Prince Philip was our Queen’s consort for almost 70 years, walking two steps behind but always supporting her. Apparently, he saw a little girl holding a daffodil for the Queen. She did not see her but carried on the walk-about. Prince Philip noticed. He lifted her over the barrier and told her to go and give her daffodil to the Queen. Touching. Shows what type of man he was. I am thinking of one of my own quotes, “A man’s character is best described in his epitaph”. As a man who often made news for his gaffs rather than his goodness, even he is probably saying, “Wow” at the obituaries. It is so sad that we all need to wait for our demise before our good deeds are recognised.

Someone has just mentioned our Monarch. How would she be feeling this morning? She has woken up as a widow for the first time. Prince Charles paid her a visit yesterday. He, Princess Anne, and Prince Edward spoke briefly of him in a BBC programme last night. Interesting that Prince Andrew was conspicuous by his absence. Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex have just visited her. Peeps ask about the Queen. Sophie can be seen saying she is ‘amazing’. I guess she will have prepared herself mentally for this event and will carry on dutifully doing her duty as she has done since 1936. She has signed off the funeral arrangements. He did not want any fuss so he will probably be pleased that there will be no lying in state or grand procession or big funeral in Westminster Abbey. Instead, due to Covid, it has been scaled down. It will be at 3.00pm next Saturday in St. George’s Chapel, Windsor. There will be no more than 30 peeps present, socially distancing and wearing masks. Boris has declined to attend so that there is more room for the family. Let’s face it, there is a lot of them. Oh, Harry is returning minus Meghan. Anyone disappointed? She would probably have tried to take centre stage proudly showing all her bump. He will have to self-isolate first and take a Covid test so I guess he will be arriving tomorrow or Monday or he will miss the funeral. Is this where he will regret his big decision? Will he decide to stay here? Will he want to be Royal again?

11.30. Thirty minutes before the gun salute. Feed pesky pigeons. Take rubbish out. Wash up. Tidy round. Get second cuppa. Sit down and watch this historic moment.

This 41 death gun salute is taking place at Woolwich Barracks, The Tower of London, at sea, and in numerous cities around our country, in Edinburgh, Cardiff, Belfast and Gibraltar. It has already taken place at Parliament House in Australia. The guns being used at Woolwich Barracks are the same ones that were used for both their wedding in 1947 and the Coronation.  This event is done with military precision. There is one salute every minute for each year of his life. That’s 99. We can only see one on our screens, but they are happening simultaneously in the numerous locations. Amazing. If it were me organising it, they would be seconds apart! What a spectacle.

The continuous news is closing now after twenty-four hours and stations are reverting to the scheduled programmes. The closing pics are beautiful. They are of the two of them looking at each other, like when your eyes meet across a crowded room when the rest of the world does not exist. They understood. They were united in love, duty, and service. They thought as one. Lovely couple. The longest married Royal couple in our history. She is our longest serving monarch and he the longest serving consort. Sad. It has also been pointed out that he accepted his inevitable role when he married her in 1947. He would always be ‘two steps’ behind her in a supporting role at a time when men were the bread winners and the main stay in relationships. They brought home the bacon while the wife kept house. He had a glittering career ahead of him in the navy but was forced to leave it when she became Queen in 1952. I guess he hoped he would have longer to pursue his career and she, likewise, would have liked more time as Princess Elizabeth, naval wife with her children. She has talked of how she enjoyed her life in Malta where she enjoyed so much freedom. I believe she has also said, when passing the average semi house, how nice it would be to have a little house and retire with Philip. Fortunately, they both have the capacity to accept the roles handed to them in life and both have been sustained by their strong faith. It is that faith which will keep her Majesty going for the remaining period of her reign.

What will happen to the title, Duke of Edinburgh? Our Queen remains the Duchess of Edinburgh, among other titles, but when her time comes, the title will go to Prince Edward and Sophie Wessex. Isn’t Sophie, Countess of Wessex lovely? She just fits in so well and accepts her role and position in the pecking order. Thinking. Must Google first. Yes, Sophie did go out carriage driving with her father-in-law. It was Prince Philip who pioneered carriage driving as a sport to the UK when he was 50 and decided to give up polo. What could he do instead? Well, he wasn’t one to sit idle, was he? Ah, sweet. There’s pics of The Lady Louise, his granddaughter, taking his ponies out carriage driving yesterday. Back to Sophie, yes. My second memory is correct. In 2016 she accepted the Duke of Edinburgh’s Diamond challenge in relation to his Award scheme which was 60 years old. She did the 445-mile bike ride from Holyrood House to Buckingham Palace raising £180,000 for the charity. Go Sophie, Go! Isn’t she great!

Normality this afternoon. Football matches are going ahead. The Grand National horse race will be run at Aintree later. Last year it was cancelled. This year without spectators and those present socially distancing.

What am I doing this afternoon? A little spring cleaning, I think. Tidy up the desk. Sort out a few papers. Working on my ancestry. Fascinating hobby. No, I have not forgotten my attempts at origami. I shall have another go next month. Writing. Playing. Pottering. Sort out a few more plants ready for summer. Keep an ear open for Antonio, although it is a little dismal for him today.

Memory alert. Corfu where I had an enjoyable holiday in 2008. Prince Philip was born there to Princess Alice and Andrew, the King of Greece, in 1921. Their home was Mon Repos just outside Corfu town. I remember seeing it. Was it palatial? No. An insignificant, rundown, small place which you would pass without realising it had been owned by royalty. Another thought on this one. I left Corfu on a plane. The Prince left or rather escaped in an orange crate. There was a coup in Greece and he, with his sisters and parents were forced to flee. They were rescued by a British ship. So, Royalty leaves in a crate and little old me leaves like royalty on a plane. His life has not been the typical or ideal image of Royalty born with a silver spoon, has it? That is probably why he is so down to earth, and practical.

Watching ‘The Grand National’. Wow! A first. The winner Rachael Blackmore is the first woman to win this race on Minella Times.

Dinner. Wait a minute. Prince Charles is outside his front door at Highgrove paying tribute to his father. "My dear Papa was a very special person who I think above all else would have been amazed by the reaction and the touching things that have been said about him, and from that point of view we are, my family, deeply grateful for all that. It will sustain us in this particular loss and at this particularly sad time. I particularly wanted to say that my father, for I suppose the last 70 years, has given the most remarkable, devoted service to the queen, to my family and to the country, but also to the whole of the Commonwealth."

 

Okay, dinner. Chicken and bacon slice with peppers, onions and tomatoes. The rest of the evening? My usual place. It is the third episode of ‘Keeping Faith’ at 9.00. Then it will be bubble bath time and I shall retire.

 

Oh, rumour has it that Prince Harry has boarded a plane in LA and is expected to arrive here soon.

 

Goodnight my friends.

 

 

Day 384 Sunday, 11^th April 2021. (Lockdown 3/ Day 97)

Good morning.

Downstairs. Pigeons! Brekky. Churches around the UK are remembering Prince Philip and offering prayers for him. Many have tolled bells 99 times. Breaking news online. The Archbishop of Canterbury is paying tribute to the Prince Philip at a special remembrance service.

Justin Welby, who will lead the Duke of Edinburgh's funeral, said that the Duke of Edinburgh had led a “great life” and accepted without question the hand he had been dealt. He said: “For the royal family, as for every other, no words can reach into the depth of sorrow that goes into bereavement. We all know that it is not simply a factor of age or familiarity. It is not obliterated by the reality of a very long life remarkably led, nor is the predictability of death’s arrival a softening of the blow. Loss is loss. Our lives are not completed before death, but their eternity is prepared. So we can indeed pray that the Duke of Edinburgh may rest in peace and rise in glory. We may pray for comfort. We may pray and offer love for all who find that a great life leaves a very great gap. For the royal family and the millions who have themselves suffered loss, we can know that the presence of Christ will bring peace, and the light of Christ will shine strongly, and it is in that light that we can strengthen one another with eternal hope.”

Meanwhile, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward, the Countess of Wessex, and the Lady Louise attended a service at All Saints Church, Windsor. This is the small church on the Windsor estate where Princess Beatrice married during Covid restrictions last summer. It is where the Queen and Prince Philip were photographed with the bride and groom (socially distanced, of course). Remember? The Princess instead of a massive wedding with the special wedding dress and pageantry which normally accompanies Royal weddings, like her sister, had a recycled one! Recycled dress from the Queen, and tiara with a small number of guests.

Prince Andrew spoke to reporters afterwards stating, the Queen felt that the loss of her husband had left a huge void in her life. “The Queen as you would expect is an incredibly stoic person. She described his passing as a miracle and she's contemplating, I think is the way that I would put it." Nice to see and hear from him again, isn’t it? He and Prince Harry will be attending the funeral but wearing suits as opposed to their military uniforms. Remember? They lost their ranking in the military when they lost their HRH titles. Uniforms disappeared.

Oh, Prince Harry has landed on English soil, security officers were on the tarmac waiting for him. Back to his old lifestyle with security. Wonder if he has missed it?

Prince Edward said, "It has been a bit of a shock, however much one tries to prepare oneself for something like this it is still a dreadful shock. We are still trying to come to terms with that. It is very very sad but I have to say that the extraordinary tributes and the memories that everybody has had and been willing to share has been so fantastic. It just goes to show, he might have been our father, grandfather, father-in-law. But he meant so much to so many other people. Just being here this morning with everybody from Windsor Great Park. He was a ranger here for more years than any other ranger and he means so much to so many people here."

 So sad. Pour Moi. Carry on as usual. Waiting for ‘Songs of Praise’. As expected, this was a special programme paying tribute to Prince Philip and hosted by Aled Jones. I loved the hymns chosen as a tribute. First, “The Lord is my Shepherd” which was sung at their wedding. Then, there was “For the beauty of the earth”, that brought tears to my eyes. We sang it at my father’s funeral. Three more followed, “Great is thy faithfulness”, “Love divine…” and “Abide with me”. Aled spoke with several peeps who had known the Prince for many years. They spoke of his enormous knowledge on numerous subjects, his many interests, and ideas. He was determined to use his knowledge and position to make the world a better place. He had a strong sense that God had brought him here for a purpose. He never doubted that faith could move mountains. He was a conservationist before it was fashionable. He often felt the press misunderstood him, making fun of his gaffs but not reporting many other things. Some of the ‘gaffs’ were not even true. There are numerous stories regarding his ‘one-liners’ but his jokes were always intended to put people at their ease. What a man!

Ah, Princess Anne has just paid a tribute to her father,

“You know it's going to happen but you are never really ready.

'My father has been my teacher, my supporter and my critic, but mostly it is his example of a life well lived and service freely given that I most wanted to emulate.

'His ability to treat every person as an individual in their own right with their own skills comes through all the organisations with which he was involved.

'I regard it as an honour and a privilege to have been asked to follow in his footsteps and it has been a pleasure to have kept him in touch with their activities.

'I know how much he meant to them, in the UK, across the Commonwealth and in the wider world.

'I would like to emphasise how much the family appreciate the messages and memories of so many people whose lives he also touched. We will miss him but he leaves a legacy which can inspire us all.'

Actually, I am a little tired today so I am going to have a siesta and then I will give you the weekly update.

5.00 pm. Ah, feeling refreshed. What? Looked out of window. God has still got a dandruff problem. Must advise him to change shampoo. That white stuff peeps call hail stones is descending and crashing on to bird table and ground. Pesky pigeons have disappeared.

Data time. Global total case figure is 136,295,557. Last Sunday it was 131,858,063. That is an increase of 4 + million again. Things are not getting better.  Total death toll is 2,942,490. Perilously close to 3 million. Recovered 109,604,090, almost 110 million. Good news. If you catch the dreaded lurgy the odds are in your favour. We now have 24 countries who have passed the 1 million mark. Romania is the latest country. The next two are likely to be Belgium and Iraq. Here in the good old UK, we have a total case figure of 4,369,775. The death toll 127,087. That’s 100,000 more than some MP originally predicted.

Right, my friends, I am off to have my dinner now. Treat this evening. Pizza. Later it’s ‘Midsomer Murders’. Wonder how many murders tonight? Originally a murder mystery would have one murder. It was a ‘who dunnit’ not a ‘who done them’! Now, it seems the longer these series go on for the more murders there are. Will it be five or six?

Goodnight. Stay safe.

Lady M 

Lockdown 13

Almost 10 years ago and a different world

Hello Everyone,

Hope you are all okay and surviving this crazy world. As I write this Beijing has gone into lockdown for the second time. I think that is a warning for all of us. This pandemic is not going anywhere soon. Somehow, we have to get used to a new way of life with the good old days as a distant memory. The pic this week is the champers on my 60th birthday at the Alexander Hotel in Paphos. That was a wonderful day and I think all we have now are our memories.

I'm sharing last weekend's logs of this pandemic. Enjoy.

Day 82, Saturday 13^th, Weekend time again.


Morning peeps. I’m up bright and early today because I wanna watch the Queen’s official birthday celebration at Windsor Castle. Now, Britain is almost obsessed with tradition. The trooping of the colour is a tradition which normally takes place on the Queen’s official birthday at Horse Guards Parade in London. It is an event when most of the Royal Family are present, today just her Majesty. We watched the Welsh Guards march round the castle before assembling on the grass area for the actual presenting the ensign. It was all done with social distancing. So, instead of the guards being shoulder to shoulder they were two metres apart. It was different but just shows what you can do. It’s our Queen’s first public appearance since March. Hey, she’s still working.

What else is happening today? Hopefully, Antonio will arrive and I’m pleased to announce it’s sunny and feeling warmer. I am distressed to see that the protest marches are continuing. Why are marches not banned? I am also disgusted because we have to protect our statutes erected to eminent people like Churchill and Baden Powell. They have become objects for racist graffiti and destruction. This shows a total lack of respect for our country and heritage. I would like to respectively remind the black lives matter brigade in this country that firstly, all lives matter and secondly, we are traditionally a white, Christian country. We have welcomed other societies into our land and accommodated their religion, culture and way of life. If you’re not happy here there is a simple solution.

On the Covid front Brazil is in an alarming state with 820,000 + cases and 40,000 + deaths. They now have more deaths than Britain and numerous more cases than anywhere other than the USA. Beijing has had another breakout of the virus in the largest market in the city. Six cases have been confirmed after fifty days of freedom in the city. Now, certain parts are in lockdown again. I think it’s a warning for all of us.

Oh no. Disaster. I was upstairs when I heard my love’s melodic tones. I rushed downstairs, in desperation collected my coins and went out of the backdoor just as he drove off. No ice cream. Back to proof reading. Made my phone call. No answer. It’s just not my day.

Hopefully tomorrow will be better.

Oh dear. I’m not the only one having a bad day. There’s been numerous protest marches up and down the country in various cities and towns. Violence has erupted and police injured. A man has been pictured urinating on the Westminster memorial to PC Keith Palmer killed in the terror attack on Westminster in 2017. He has been arrested. What is the matter with people?

And we end the day with rain and thunderstorms!

Goodnight Peeps!



Day 83, Sunday, special day of the week

Today is a new adventure, a blank canvas, a day of opportunities and a day to enjoy. Positivity after yesterday.

The sun is announcing a glorious day. I’m up early ready for the morning service. Downstairs. Breakfast and candles burning by 10.45. A beautiful service for the first Sunday after Trinity from Manchester’s Holy Trinity Platt Church. Later Songs of Praise.

Hey, I hear him. Rushed out and got my ice cream today. All is well with the world.

I can’t believe it but it’s three years since the Grenfell Tower fire disaster. It is newsworthy and the point is made that lives were changed that day. It’s not over. There are still too many, I think they said 200 tower blocks with the same dangerous, fire hazard cladding. There was a service to remember the 79 who lost their lives that night. I still remember my horror when I put the tv on the next morning and saw the fire still blazing away. It was like the film, The Towering Inferno. Fiction becomes reality.

Sadly, Covid 19 is taking second place to the riots and marches. Covid is far more destructive and dangerous. Why are these peeps congregating in masses and not practising social distancing. Those of us with brains know what’s coming next. Why are these global activities not being banned? The whole situation is out of control. Another black man has been shot by a police officer in Atlanta. He was being arrested, struggled and took a police officer's taser as he tried to escape. The whole thing was filmed and has become headline news as the officer chased him and, presumably in fear of losing a man who had failed a breathalyser, shot him with either two or three shots. Didn’t count them but it was like watching a movie. Another police officer, too trigger happy and dismissed from his post.

Over here during the riots in London an opposite scene has become the main news item. A white man was on the ground and black men lifted him up. One black man, Patrick Hutchinson put him over his shoulder and carried him away from the masses where he would have been trampled on and probably lost his life. Please note I am allowed to say black and white now.

This, like so many things over the last months, has taken me down that memory lane to the sixties. I recall the famous Martin Luther King I have a dream speech. Later, in 2003 I visited the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee where he was assassinated. Just a wreath lay on the balcony. It just looked so small and insignificant for such a major piece of history.


I’ll be back tomorrow. Have fun my friends and stay safe.


Lady M xxxxx

Lockdown 12

A holiday memory, Yeriskipou Church, Cyprus

Hello Peeps,

Lady M still here and somehow surviving Lockdown in what I can only describe as a desperate country. It is now thought that we should have gone into lockdown a week earlier, and then the number of deaths would be half what it is now. Well, we are only second to America. Fourth in the global table and we have the worst situation in Europe. We see New Zealand on the news, a country totally free of the virus. They have moved back to normality. The secret? Early lockdown and good testing. 

This week I would like to share my log for last weekend. 

Enjoy!

Day 75, Another weekend!

Wow! I’m looking at the news and am seriously alarmed. Protests are going ahead worldwide over the death of George Floyd. Yes, okay. All for it. "Black Lives Matter" but we are in a pandemic. What do I see? Thousands of peeps in close proximity at Parliament Square, London. Both the Home and Health Secretary have pleaded with peeps not to gather in large numbers at this time; in fact not more than six peeps. Their pleas have been ignored. Clearly, peeps desire to protest over racism against blacks is stronger than their concern over the pandemic. We all know what that means. Soon that ‘R’ figure is gonna rise again. Look out! Lockdown will be back.

An interesting point has just been made. Technically, these peeps are breaking the law. Are the police going to arrest them? Unlikely. I see a poster at the lead, as they’re marching to the Home Office, JUSTICE FOR and beneath it pics of about eight peeps who have presumably lost their lives through injustice and police brutality. I’m now hearing that George Floyd is not alone in this situation of being unable to breathe and pleading for his life. The PM of Australia is on the news. He has given the same message to peeps, but Sydney is alive with throngs and masses of protestors. The Australians and the rest of the world are united. Covid 19 has taken second place to racism. Okay, things are wrong and need to be put right, but now? Surely, this will add fuel to the fire of racism when more peeps lose relatives as a result of increased victims of Covid 19.

Actually, I think it’s confession time. I am a white British individual and deffo not racist but I am guilty of that ostrich approach to the racist situation largely through ignorance. I have had Sikh neighbours for many years. In more recent years we have had serious parking issues on our little street. The police have been involved and my neighbours have said that the police both listened and treated me differently from them. I didn’t believe it, but then I’m educated to degree level, an author, and former teacher. The lottery of life. I guess it’s been a case of ignorance being bliss. How many others can identify with me? 

Moving on. It’s after 2.00. What have I done today? Lazed. What am I going to do? Laze. I blame the weather. It’s drab and that wet stuff occasionally falls from the sky. So different from last weekend when all the windows were open and the sun ruled the sky. Oh well, it will return; it’s just having a little rest at the moment.

Gonna watch the film "Carousel" later. Have fun, folks.

Had lunch. Hey, Antonio has been in between that wet stuff falling. Made my day. The film is as good as ever. Waiting for the famous song, very appropriate for today, "You’ll never walk alone".

Will make my phone call when the film finishes.

Such a sad ending. Made the call, and had dinner. Now I’m looking at the figures. Today the UK has 1,557 new cases. Worldwide the figure is 86,239. Lockdown is easing? What planet are those peeps on? After today’s worldwide protests it will probably be double that in a couple of weeks. There’s a time and place for everything. This is not the time for protest marches whatever the reason. So much has happened virtually in the last weeks why can’t the civil rights movement use virtual reality for now and protest later? 

Okay, I’m saying goodnight now. Back tomorrow.

Day 76, Sunday June 7th Trinity Sunday.

Today is a day of many happy memories. I’ve been looking at my photo album from the sixties. I have pretty pics of me in chorister robes walking through our lovely little village, Ashford in the Water, at the Blessing of the Wells. This is an ancient Derbyshire tradition; peeps gave thanks to God for the gift of wells and life giving water. I wonder if it’s happening this year? Our church was the Holy Trinity Church, hence the reason our thanksgiving was on Trinity Sunday. 

We moved to this village in March 1960. I recall talk of wells dressing and had a vision of peeps taking clothes to put on the wells. Alas, that is not the case. The dressing is large clay boards with flower petals and foliage pressed into the clay to create an image, usually Biblical. Each Well had a name and a specific group in the community was responsible for it. Once completed and erected they would stay in place for a week. Visitors would come to view them; they were also a source of income. When it was over they were removed and stored until the next year; six weeks before the event they would be taken down to the river and placed in the water to soften the clay. Clever! That first year, sixty years ago I helped for the first time. My allocated well? The Children’s Well. I stayed with that one through to my last time, in 1969, prior to College days. Treasured memories. 

Last year, I was looking at a page on Facebook on the history of that village and saw a short film of one of those years. I couldn’t believe my eyes; there was my father crossing the road. Yes, my father alive again. Wonderful. What’s that phrase, “Today’s moments are tomorrow’s memories?”

This morning I watched the service from St David’s Cathedral in Pembrokeshire and later "Songs of Praise". Today, “S of P”was a special one and not the one originally planned. It highlighted the murder of George Floyd and the racist issue. Illuminating and certainly a better way to look at the problem than marching in large crowds and adding to the pandemic problem. A phrase has just come to mind… Houston, we have a problem!

It is still wet and drab here but my darling delivered. His melodic tones brighten any day. How many more peeps chose to buy ice cream today? Probably not many. Who cares?

There’s no update on the virus this weekend. I wonder why? Has our government gone into hiding, in fear of the community, after so many mistakes over Covid19? There are more protests this afternoon in various cities. Why have they not been stopped? The figures? Total cases has now passed the 7,000,000 mark. 

Okay, off for lunch now and possibly a bit of ironing I think plus games, tv and work. I shall end the day with a bubble bath.

Have fun. Just think. The easy option is always the easiest but it may not be the best. There’s no problem that does not have a solution but finding it is the hard part. For the sake of your sanity accept what you cannot change.

Stay safe, peeps. Lots of love, Lady M xxxxx

Lockdown 9

Hello Everyone,

Here we are in the ninth week of Lockdown in the UK. Some countries are ahead of us, some behind us. Almost all of the 213 countries, that have declared cases, sadly have to announce some deaths. As I write this, the update is on the television, and despite our case number going down, we still have 35,704 deaths. We are second only to USA. Over 35,000 families here who have lost someone they love to this virus. In the USA, the figure is 92,333. Alarming. My sympathy goes out to all families who have suffered as a result of this pandemic. The total global death figure at the moment is 324,240. Just how high will it go?

I've posted two pics from the archives today. Afternoon tea poster at Langley library, and the Odeon Cinema locally. These were  two places I visited weekly in the pre-Coronavirus days. Memories. I, last visited them both in March, two months ago, but it seems like a decade since normality. I've posted them because I feel we have to hold on to our memories as we look forward with hope of better days in the future. 

I have been sharing some of my daily logs with you through this distressing time. This week, I am going to share last weekend's postings. Please enjoy.

Day 54, Saturday, 16^th May. Half-way through another decade!


 Another weekend has arrived although the meaning is not the same as it used to be, is it? It was a kind of reward for having worked a week; a time to let your hair down, relax, have a drink, go out, meet friends, and enjoy yourself. Mentally, prepare for the next challenging week of enterprise and slog which enabled you to earn a living, a comfortable lifestyle or survival. Thankful that you were not homeless, penniless, and destitute. Well, now we know that all that slog for dosh was a waste of time. Money is like magic beans. The Bank just manufactures it at will.

I have great news for you. This morning I received my new toy, a thermometer. Yea. I wonder if I could get into the Guinness Book of Records for taking my temperature the greatest number of times in a day. It’s digital, like most things these days, and beeps, but great fun. I do not have a high temperature or fever. Interesting that I’ve survived for years without a thermometer, but now, it’s like they’re fashionable, or the ‘must have’ gadget. Sold out in shops but available online.

It’s sunny but still chilly, I live in hopes of real warmth arriving soon. Although, the weather is causing panic at our tourist spots. They fear masses will visit them this weekend now that peeps can drive anywhere in England. There are signs up in places like the Lake District, saying it’s closed to tourists, and go home. Normally, they welcome visitors as it’s their main source of income. Someone was on the box last night pointing out that everywhere was closed, cafes, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, museums, and toilets. Don’t come!

What am I going to do today? I’m pleased to say that I’ve completed all the tasks I intended doing this week so that’s something to be pleased about. Now, I’m enjoying the Andrew Lloyd Webber free download of "Cats". It’s 12.20 and I’m on my second cuppa. The rest of the day? Potter. Be happy. Take my temperature. Play. BBL

Hey, peeps, I don’t believe it. It has happened. I almost missed it. I was busy working at the front of my mansion, oblivious to what was happening at the back. I heard a knock at the door, rare these days. I looked down from the upper rooms, and thought I was hallucinating. It was a mirage. It must be. It’s been so long. I never thought it would happen again. My neighbour, and friend, Candice, was standing on the step with an ice cream. So pleased she did not have phone to capture my expression. I rushed downstairs, and opened the door. “Has he been?” “He’s there now,” she replied. “What?” as my eyes popped out of my head, I’m salivating just looking at that delicious ‘99’ with chocolate sauce. Social distancing? Hell, who cares? Grab the ice cream. Say thank you. Don’t know. Too much shock, and excitement. Inside. Through to the kitchen. Look through back window. Yes, he’s there. My darling, Antonio’s little ice cream van, parked by my back gate. Why is he allowed to come round during this time? No idea? Do I care? Nope. Thinking back about two weeks at the Oldbury Retail Park I did notice the burger van was open and peeps were buying them. They were queueing to get into shops at a safe distance but happy to walk right up to a burger van and have a burger, chips, whatever handed to them. Logic during this pandemic? Non-existent. From now on, I’ll collect my £1 coins and I’ll be ready for Antonio. What lessons have been learned from this experience? Do not play music while working you never know what you might miss. And, always keep on good terms with the neighbours!

Talking of neighbours. My neighbour of two doors down on Treddles Lane, the one who painted his back wall white a while back, is now turning the front area of his house into a parking space for one of his vehicles. Ah, memories. When I first came to this property, almost forty years ago, all three of the houses on this lane, (Yes, there are only three) had beautiful front gardens as expected for mid-1930 properties. Over the years I have seen those beautiful gardens disappear. I still have one, albeit, changed for easier maintenance, but I still have a lovely hydrangea, beautiful white daisies, blue and pink geraniums plus trees. The grass has gone, replaced with bark chipping making it easier to manage. Next door, one bush left, the rest… Now, two doors down what had been raised, and changed into slabs is at present a mess, while he’s taking it back down to ground level, removing a wall, and making a new parking area. A skip arrived a couple of days ago, and sits in front of the door. It’s the changing times, or the new normal, gardens disappear to be replaced by parking spaces and garages. Although, remember what I said a few days ago? We are all being encouraged to walk or cycle to work, we are not to use public transport for leisure. Will the car become redundant or at least we may return to one per household as opposed to one, per person? These are uncertain times.

Update time. The main topic. Children are due to return to school on June 1^s,t or two weeks’ time, providing five tests are met. Here we go again; those famous five tests. This applies to England only, not Scotland or Wales. Schools are preparing by moving classroom furniture around ensuring social distance is maintained. No more than fifteen in a class. Staggered entering, break, lunch, leaving times. Only Reception, Years 1, 6, 10, and 12 will be returning before September. These years have been chosen specifically because they are transitioning or pre-exam years. The Secretary for Education, Gavin Williamson, was at the helm at today’s briefing justifying his decision. We are following other countries in Europe, particularly Denmark. There were some interesting things which gave rise to comment. For example, children may take their own lunchboxes but not pencil cases. The reason? They are far more likely to share pencils than lunchboxes. The Government have conceded that the final decision, if the schools do reopen, will be that of the parents. They will decide whether they are happy with heir children returning to the classroom.

Just looking at pics. Yes, many peeps have hit the beaches and tourist spots despite the warnings. Also, the figures for today are 468 deaths making the UK total deaths, 34,466. Second only to the USA. Apparently, the ‘R’ figure is still under 1 but only just. I cannot see how places can reopen, and not give rise to a second wave of Covid 19. Looking at those pics again; there’s a kind of ignorance to the disaster. Peeps are thoroughly lackadaisical. There’s a protest in Hyde Park against lockdown. Someone has a poster saying “No” to the new abnormal, forced vaccines, being trapped and chipped, being controlled by fear. “Yes” to Life and Freedom. Are these peeps living in cloud cuckoo land? Are they on a different planet from me? I know I say these figures are fiction but Covid 19 is real.

Okay, downstairs. Time for fodder… sweet and sour, I think. Am I going to cook from scratch. Don’t be silly, it’s a meal for one from a famous supermarket. Has anyone else noticed that these meals are decreasing in size? It’s been gradual over the last few years. I microwave it, and then plate it. There used to be a plate full of food. Now, it’s only about half full. So, you nibble at other things because the meal still leaves hunger pangs. Each time the plastic container changes it’s because the size is slightly smaller. Keep your eyes peeled.


Later, tv, games and bed. One more Groundhog Day down!


Day 55, Sunday. Special Day

I’m downstairs, with my candle burning, watching the morning service. Today, it’s the Sixth Sunday of Easter and the service is coming from St David’s Cathedral in Pembrokeshire. Brought to us from Wales. Guess, if we can’t go there, it can come to us.

I sang along to two of my fav hymns, "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" and "How Great Thou Art." It sent me down memory lane to my early childhood days at Syerston, a small Nottinghamshire village. The Norman Church was a centre point in the village, and the vicar took afternoon services, as he was also the rector for other churches. I recall walking up the lane, with little teddy in hand, Mum and Dad on either side of me. We joined the other villagers for those services. We sat together in one pew, I think it was the fourth from the altar and in front of the pulpit. I recall singing my heart out. Such happy memories of my early days, and learning that Sunday was special. I still visit that church, roughly once a year, to clean my sister’s gravestone. And that will be my final resting place, I have left instructions for my ashes to be interred in that grave. I’ve been talking a lot about things going full circle, or back to the past. I guess my life will be like that. I will return to where I spent my early days.

 Nostalgia! Back to the present and work before Songs of Praise. BBL

Taken my temperature. 35.7C. I’m alive and it’s normal. I think I’m like that ‘R’ thing which has to be below 1. It goes up and down from .5-.9, if you believe the figures. Downstairs again, waiting for "Songs of Praise", wondering will my darling Antonio return, and park by my gate again? I’ll be listening today, ready and waiting, coins by the kitchen door.

Aled Jones is introducing "Songs of Praise".  Bye for now.

Hey, was watering the plants when I heard it. No, not the nightingale in Berkeley Square or the cuckoo but those melodic tones heralding my darling, Antonio. Yes, summer is here. All is normal. I grabbed my coins and rushed out. Almost normal. He was wearing mask and gloves. Sad reminder of the times. Such a tonic to hear him again. Oh, the ice cream was good as well!

8.30 pm. The rest of my day. Boring really. So, yes, today I am a boring person. I tackled the mountain of ironing; it doesn’t get much more boring than that does it? Made a phone call. Watched the box and played games. Looked at the washing up and thought, nah! One boring job a day is enough. Had pizza for dinner. About to watch "Killing Eve". Then, I shall retire and prepare mentally for another Groundhog Day, and the beginning of another week in this decade they call "May".

So goodnight. Oh, yes, I’ll take my temperature again just for fun.


Be safe, Lady M ❤❤❤❤