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Blog
Sue
Sue is the boss, the leader, the one we all respect and bow down to. She is always right and never makes a mistake.She has the cheque book, she issues the wages, pays the bills, issues invoices and collects the cash.
Sue, we love you.
Sadly, there are plans to build a Mosque near to the site of the 9/11 atrocity and this is despite there not being a particular Muslim comminuty nearby. Allegedly, this building is being funded by the Saudi's and is a clear provocation but I have yet to hear of anyone of Hilary's ilk publicly condemn this. The families of the victims are outraged and hurt in equal measure and who can blame them.
Looking back at history it seems that most of the problems in the world have been rooted in religion and superstition and I long for a world free of this but, worryingly, kids around the globe are increasingly being indoctrinated in this dangerous tripe in one form or another.
In his recent series 'The Age of Reason' Richard Dawkins says that there will always be good people who do good things and bad people who do bad things but that belief in God gives good people a reason to do bad things.
Amen to that!
PAYE - introduced in 1944 as a way of collecting tax quickly to help pay for WW11.
Employers became unpaid tax collectors and it has remained ever since.
Over the last couple of years 'teething troubles' with a new system combined with a lowering of standards amongst Revenue staff, has resulted in a number of blunders and the latest one means several million folk have paid the wrong tax.
If you are one of those who have overpaid you should, eventually, receive a refund but if you are one of the unlucky ones who have underpaid then the Revenue will want to recover this. The advice seems to be that you should first check the information that the Revenue send you and, if you are happy that you have provided the correct details and that the fault is entirely theirs, you should apply for concession ESC A19 - which means they have to write off the loss.
And what have successive governments done with all this money that is taken from our wage packets before we even get paid?
Some of the waste is obscene and scandalous.
Apart from an illegal war resulting in so many unnecessary deaths we have had the Dome and QUANGOs galore and now we are paying for a state visit from the Pope - the head of a state of a few hundred people. More maddening is that we are also coughing up for protecting Blair - the egomaniac (maybe even megalomaniac) to promote his 'Journey'. Surely the man should pay for his own protection.
For Socialist read parasite.
Marks veggie were lovely, we enjoyed the french beans with some lamb, the beetroot with a scrumptious gammon and the chard, leeks and onions went in the pot with some of my own veg to make a smashing soup. The runner beans have been sliced up and frozen so along with the cabbages I quartered and froze a couple of weeks ago we have a nice supply of home grown greens.
Having watched The Great British Waste Menu last week I am on a mission not to chuck out any food at all - bread could be my downfall though, there is only so much bread and butter pudding I can stand.
There was a bit of 'chucking out' occuring on Saturday night though it seems. Some nutter dumped the contents of a black bin bag all over a small van across the street from us leaving a helluva mess. So on Sunday morning did the residents who own said van clear up the mess which had spread around somewhat?
Er, no! - They called the police!
So, while your granny was being mugged, your house burgled or your daughter assaulted on Sunday evening, two of HM Constabulary's finest were doing an hour long door to door reference the appalling bin bag crime!
I watched Usain Bolt being interviewed yesterday, what a cracking bloke. Now one of the highest paid athletes he spends some of his earnings improving life for people back in his home community. His book is out this week and I have to say I would prefer to buy that than the Jackanory that Blair is touting. OK, so he is donating a substantial sum to the British Legion but, as you may imagine, I am totally cynical about this - he's a wrong 'un.
Finally, it seems our MPs still haven't got the message. A number of elected members have been very abusive towards the staff now charged with verifying expense claims and 'allegedly' numbered amongst these is one Mr V Cable. Oh dear, he's proving to be a bit of a disapppointment - and he still hasn't replied to my email.
And ...
Mark has kindly brought me in some of his home grown veggies today, he's a bit good at this growing lark.
So, I am looking forward to cooking up something tasty later.
Thanks Mark x
Oatibix:
Tried it this morning - it's horrible.
Growing my own veg:
The cabbages have been fab - I've frozen the excess and the carrots were sweet and tender but the spuds have been a real disappointment. They have been small to smaller and not great for boiling or even roasting. They have been OK as seasoned wedges but as they take up a fair bit of room to grow they've hardly been worth the effort.
I have sewn some beetroot and silverskins but I am about a month late so I'm not holding my breath.
I will be better prepared next year.
Celebrity Masterchef:
Great stuff but it's all getting a bit silly.
John & Greg are verging on being Pantomime villains and as for the music - worthy of a Bond movie but a bit much with your mash!
X-Factor:
I don't care if they tweak the sound I enjoy the show. Star of week one was guest judge Geri Halliwell who 'engaged' with the contestants a little more than required.
Who Do You Think You Are?
I have only ever watched a couple of these before but last night it was Alexander Armstrong who traced his ancestry back to William the Conqueror - fascinating stuff and Mr. A was chuffed.
I did!
Honest I did!
OK - so it wasn't THAT Robbie Williams, it was my nephew Robbie Williams but it was as good a wedding as I have been to. A fantastic venue in Stoke Poges (been used for Pride & Prejudice and other lovely things) and by far the funniest Best Man speech I have ever heard - we were all crying with laughter.
So, congratulations to Rob & Sajdah (now in Indonesia for the honeymoon) may they enjoy a long and happy life together.
We made a bit of a weekend of it and it was lovely to catch up with some of the family members that we don't see too often.
PS.
Not a peep from Vince yet!
Baroness Warsi has ignored me and Caroline Spelman has probably 'junked' me.
The fight goes on.
He hasn't replied - but then he has been away!
Even so, I am not expecting much.
I have had a response from Caroline Spellman however - I emailed her when she mouthed off about how women should be free to choose to cover their faces. I was quite impressed that she took the time to respond but was disappointed that she remains firmly fixed on repeating that she didn't want to live in a country which dictated dress. She had completely ignored the issues I raised about the erosion of our culture, the oppression of thousands of women and the discrimination shown to other groups.
So, I have responded by sticking to the legal issue - pointing out that a motorcyclist must remove his headgear in order to be identified in, say, a bank or petrol station and yet a lady in a face veil can enter unchallenged.
If I get a reply I am expecting it to say she doesn't want to live in a country............................!
I am quite enjoying being an ageing rebel.
The bankers are also on my list of people to challenge - it's fun, join in.
And talking of fun we are off to Stoke Pogis for a wedding on Saturday and making a weekend of it. My nephew is taking the plunge and marrying his long term girlfriend, the very beautiful Sajdah.
I am definitely expecting posh.
I got a frock from Bicester Village to save a few pounds, have spent an obscene anount of money on shoes and we are staying in a hotel that I am told has been used in a number of films.
Let's hope it's more James Bond than Trainspotting!
Nice Dave wants Turkey to join the EU without a backward glance at those of us who believed he would take a tougher stance on the whole issue of Europe.
And Vince Cable, who sold his LibDem soul for a government position, wants to see unlimited immigration, apparently for our own good. Vince believes that our economic recovery is reliant on an influx of foreign workers. What a sad indictment of our country, we put good men on the dole, encourage the idle and feckless with generous benefits, sacrifice proper education and training in the name of progress, and then wonder why we have a shortage of willing and skilled labour. Not that the majority of those who come here are really guaranteed to be any better!
You have got it wrong fellas and would do well to remember that those who voted you in can just as easily vote you out!
So readers, if you are unhappy with the way things are going, get on the House of Commons website, find a contact email for your MP (or any MP you disagree with) and have your say.
If we just make a small effort, a big enough collection of complaints can change the tide - it's called people power and its fast becoming our only defense.
I have just finished reading Her Fearful Symmetry (courtesy of our lovely Mark) and, if you can suspend any disbelief you may have in ghosts, then it's a good read but didn't quite measure up to the author's wonderful Time Traveler's Wife.
Back to Terry Pratchett and Unseen Academicals - time for a good giggle methinks.
Watching
Unlike (it seems) most folk I have never been a Sherlock Holmes fan. I have always thought the books are fine for teenage boys and most film versions have been dire - the dreadful and dark TV offering with Jeremy something or other really plumbed the depths. BUT I loved the first episode of Holmes in a modern setting served up on Sunday evening with Benedict Cumberbatch (I think?) as the lead and Martin Freeman as his sidekick Watson. Silly story but very entertaining.
Eating
My home grown cabbage and carrots - sweet and tender. There is something very satisfying about the process. I have also managed some salad leaves which have been OK and am awaiting my main crop spuds. If all is successful I intend expanding my very small veggie patch for next year.
For Discussion
Dentists are white coated sadists
... you know the sort, all total self assurance and long blonde legs.
I am quietly sitting in the correct pre-booked seat on the train at Euston Station having enjoyed a smashing couple of days in the madness that is London, feeling tired but very content. Aching feet from visiting almost every shop in W1 and a head still full of the wonderful music from The Jersey Boys (what an amazing show!) and I am a happy lady.
She spat the words at me "I think you're sitting there" with a nod to the adjoining seat. I mumbled something ironic, with totally missed the mark, before saying I thought I was in the right seat but really didn't mind and then awkwardly shuffled myself across. My good mood was in danger of dissipating as she constantly interrupted the journey with -
1) Painting her nails
2) Chatting to her 'sweetie' friends about horses and parties - conversation studded with 'yah' and 'like' in equal quantities.
3) Spent the final ten minutes impressing the carriage with her student paperwork which she kept flicking just inches from my face.
By the time we had pulled into New Street I was feeling less than charitable, wishing her a pretty undesirable future before letting the whole notion go. I decided that the Fates will do a better job than I ever could. Who knows, she may face a dreadful life ahead with a broken fingernail or a fractured eyelash!
Now, I must respond to the blog response from Richard on 13th July.
You are right Rich, I could be living in a far worse place, but I am old and it is the hard earned right of all us wrinklies to complain. But I am really very happy, just working towards getting my Meldrew wings - my next moan will probably be about you young people!
The old darling has adopted a new daily saying which goes along the lines of: 'you don't want to read the front page today'. I go straight to the 'horror-scope' and then move on to the crossword, sudoku, kenken etc before caving in and reading the latest abuse of taxpayer/decent law-abiding citizen.
In a bid to change my attitude, which in all honesty had reached a permanent scream worthy of Munch, I dismiss whatever I read with a shrug and a 'why should I care'. And indeed why should I. Does it matter to me that some bloke from Somalia, has dragged his wife and obscene amount of kids, across Europe (most of which would have given them asylum) to this ailing country of ours because he gets a better financial deal here - in the form of a posh house and all the benefits he can grab? Does it matter to me that he was unhappy in the freebie house he had been allocated because it wasn't good enough and has therefore been housed in a two grand a week pad?
Of course it doesn't. Why should I care? If the mass apathetic citizen can't be bothered to write to his/her MP why should I bother?
No, I have given up! My MP is a Labour geezer who is not interested in my views anyway and as a lone voice I know I can't make any difference so why bother, why lose sleep over it?
No - I have joined the masses - all I care about is Cheryl Cole and the price of cider at Tesco glug, glug.
In my more lucid moments I have started to read the next Niffeneger book, Their Fearful Symmetry (courtesy of Mark) - so far it's brilliant.
Mark kindly brought me some of his homegrown beetroot yesterday so as soon as I got home it went in the pot.
It was scrummy, served hot with just a little white pepper it made a superb accompaniment to some lovely salmon and herbed new spuds. Thanks Mark x
My own home-growing efforts are limited to spuds, carrots, cabbages and salad leaves. All seem to be doing well, the cabbages are huge and we have been enjoying a continual supply of salad leaves - and no plastic bag!
Sad to see Murray out but I read somewhere that he had made more than seven million so far from his game so I don't feel too sorry for him, and Nadal was a worthy winner - golly, he's fierce!
Not much else on telly seems worth watching and I am doing my best to avoid over-exposure to the news - so I'm just about managing to keep a lid on things.
So, I guess the weather is still lovely.
That's me - blessed with amazing weather for our week in Wales.
Not a cloud in sight, hotter than some of the Med islands and, throwing in some stunning scenery, it made for the perfect break. I enjoyed some lovely food, mainly cooked up by my daughter & her hubby, and the week was topped off with an excellent meal at the Harbourmaster in Aberaeron.
I relaxed my way through a couple of books, Mark lent me The Time Traveler's Wife (very good) and a pal recommended The Shadow of the Wind by Carl Luis Zafron (beautiful).
I caught the Wimbledon highlights but blocked out the TV news and resisted buying a newspaper - and do you know life improved beyong all measure.
Sadly, the holiday lifestyle couldn't last, before you know it we are back in Brum and all the things that make me angry are 'in yer face'.
My little holiday made me realise that I am in a minority in thinking that I can change anything. I foolishly believed that if I harped on enough it may open eyes and that may stir the apathetic into action - I now realise that's not gonna happen.
So, instead of worrying about things I can't change, and no-one gives a monkeys about anyway, I am gonna concentrate on improving my own life. I have started by removing the English flags from my house - I mean, how can you be proud of that bunch of overpaid, mamby-pamby weaklings?
Be prepared for some serious small talk - isn't the weather lovely!
The kids are joining us so we are looking forward to a really lovely break and I have a pile of books to enjoy, many bought on the recommendation of friends and Mark has kindly lent me The Time Travellers Wife. He picks cracking books so I am hopeful. His last recommendadtion (One Day) was brilliant.
Mark also brought me some of his home grown raddishes yesterday - whoppers! Not hot but full of flavour and simply sliced in a salad they were very tasty. Thanks Mark.
In modern times, effectively since the end of the Second World War, GB has been welcoming immigrants from all around the world in substantial numbers. Initially this was because we needed people to fill jobs left vacant due to wartime losses and then, in the dying throes of the 'empire', because we had an obligation to those whose counties had gained independence. Quite right too.
There is no doubt that life was tough for many who arrived here, a cold climate and a cold shoulder in many cases but from my own perspective I saw the average working Brit behave decently. Of course, there were some folk who were hostile and, despite its attempts to change its image, the BNP remains a stain on our society.
People who chose to come to this country did so because they saw an opportunity for a better future for themselves and their families. Jobs, housing, health, education, freedom, justice, equality and fairness - these are the things we value, these are the building blocks of the British way of life. This is why they came.
Initially, with a view to real integration, most of our new friends made a true effort at adopting our lifestyle whilst still managing to maintain their religion and customs. They did so in the knowledge that the British were open to new experiences, the colour, the vibrancy, the taste of other cultures, were all wonderful after the austerity of the post war years.
The second generation of settlers were seen to embrace our lifestyle wholeheartedly, western clothing being the most obvious indicator and for a few brief years in the seventies through to the nineties, I think we really felt there was a chance at complete integration.
Sadly, something seems to have gone amiss because, when I look around some of our cities, (Birmingham, Bradford and Leicester are good examples) we don't have integration at all. Thirteen years of unchecked immigration under a labour government has seen immigrant numbers swell and swathes of our cities have become almost autonomous communities. The original population has all but disappeared; the new communities have their own shops and businesses and have begun to reject the way of life that was the initial reason for being here.
For many children, despite being born here, English is becoming a second language and the young girls who a few years ago would have been trawling around TopShop and Selfridges are now permanently clad in the style of their parents and grandparents. Weekend news reports of Guy Ritchie espied in his doorway, clad in his PJ's, were written with some disdain and although I understand that this night-time attire is back in vogue, I think most of us would agree that any feller dressed in this fashion in the streets would be considered indecently clothed. So why is it acceptable for men from other cultures to walk around our streets in what are essentially no more than long pyjamas? This style of 'traditional' dress is a very visible rejection of our lifestyle and is increasingly commonplace. As Jaz so eloquently stated just a few weeks ago - 'when in Rome.....' or as Dorothy would say - you're not in Kansas now.
These same men are quick to condemn girls in mini skirts, do they not realise how offensive their own clothing is?
The burqa and niqab are now a common sight where I live and if ever there was a strip of fabric that could create division then the face veil is it. Most wise Muslim scholars agree that it is not a requirement of the Koran, and is instead a tribal item adopted by fanatics for political purpose. Silly, misguided women wear this in the belief that they are more devout but in fact do no more that humiliate themselves and deeply offend other women. Burqa wearers get on buses flashing their passes and the drivers are unable to ascertain if they are the genuine holder yet are powerless to confront them. Many drive with such limited vision they are perilous on our roads . Day after day, I see these top-to-toe black-garbed religious fools drop their children off at the local C of E and Catholic schools!
Religious cherry picking I say.
In case you are in any doubt, some clothing offends me but leaving that aside, for purely practical reasons the veil should be banned in public.
In the spirit of fairness I have to say that the fashion of the last year or so - blokes wearing their trousers so low down that their underpants are almost entirely visible, is just as offensive.
You look silly, pull yer trousers up!
Christine is a lovely creature, and apart from being the face of the Beeb's One Show (and a WAG to boot) earned our admiration when she water-skied the English Channel, but is she really worth such an astronomic salary for a half hour stint on a lightweight magazine show? Reports are that she will add to her job load by being the front for the 2012 Olympics.
Why?
We have some well qualified sports presenters who would be justified in feeling a little put out at this and we have got a wealth of ex-sportsmen and women who would do a stirling job so, to my mind at least, giving the job to Christine and paying her such an obscene salary is a poor choice.
I am looking forward to being especially grumpy next week so expect a tirade of anger in the Tuesday column, I've had enough of being nice!
A book called 'Sluris - They Called Their Website What?' by Andy Geldman, gathers together examples of how to get it wrong: -
Take Who Represents is a directory of showbiz agents and they went a bit downmarket in choosing whorepresents.com whilst the Red Foxes baketball team opted for goredfoxes.com (ouch!)
I loved the choice of the Antiques Exchange, they went for antiquesexchange.com but have now changed it to the more acceptable antique-exchange.com.
Other examples are a stationery firm who went for penisland.net and a firm called Effective Office Environments who chose Effoff.com - genius!
Don't worry, Mrs Angry is currently fighting to get out and will no doubt be back in full fury soon.
To be fair, despite the department being crammed with drunks, junkies, injured policemen and wastrels, she was whisked straight into a cubicle and within an hour a delightful, and very pretty, auxiliary nurse had completed the paperwork, taken an ECG and done all her 'obs'. For a few brief hours this efficient and hard working girl restored my faith in nursing - it was short lived, she was a one-off.
At 3.00 am an army doctor examined Mum and admitted her to the medical assessment ward. Although we had already given a full account of her existing conditions, care, diet etc we had to go through it all again once she was on the ward and at this point the following were stressed on at least three occasions:
- She cannot move, she is completely immobile.
- She has a soft diet - everything has to be pureed.
One of the last questions was 'does she get out of breath when she walks from her bed to the chair?'
When I explained again that she was unable to move and needed to be hoisted the nurse replied with 'Oh, so she can't move then?'
Stupid
I got to bed at 4am, spent a large part of Friday and Saturday at the hospital and despaired when I saw that their definition of a soft diet consisted of a filled bread roll - no wonder her notes said she wasn't eating.
That's stupid and potentially dangerous
We managed to fit in a trip to Bicester village, the designer outlet, on Sunday - it was rammed and it took ages to find a parking space but I did manage to snap up a bargain frock for the August wedding of a nephew. We saw quite a few burkha clad ladies floating from designer shop to designer shop (moving along like black daleks) buying beautiful clothing from Armani, D&G etc. These women consider themselves defiled if the likes of me set eyes upon their beauty (how arrogant) and outwardly reject the western way of life yet will adorn themselves with the trappings of the west within the confines of their own homes.
Hypocrisy - or just stupidity?
We then enjoyed a lovely roast at the Boot in Mappleborough Green (an old favourite) before a visit to see Mum - who had improved a little, in part at least this is due to family aiding with her feeding. It's just common sense but....
....Common sense seems to be pretty uncommon of late!
Becky & Rob came for the weekend - lovely to see them both and it gives me a chance to spoil them a little bit but I admit to being worn out by the time the visit was over. They are joining us next month on a break in Wales so I will be handing over the oven gloves !
I guess that Wenlock and Mandeville are old news now but Ye Gods! Who thought that spending £400k of taxpayers money to design Olympic mascots that look like sex toys was a good idea. Seb Coe was drumming on about how it would 'engage the kids' and, rather patronisingly I thought, explaining the symbolism of each little bit of the design. What is it with these people? Vast sums of money have been paid to 'designers' to come up with a bloody awful 2012 logo, a pile of twisted metal for a landmark and now these appalling one-eyed things. It's all a bit 'Emperor's New Clothes'. Say you think it's rubbish and you will likely be told you are stupid. Gee, I am so stupid.
If they really wanted to engage the kids they could have run a national competition in schools to come up with a mascot that would have got their imagination and interest fired up - or is that too simple?
It's a bit of a pain having to get up early on a Monday morning to put the bin bags out for collection and all of my neighbours do it on Sunday evening, some of them under cover of dark.
So I gave in to temptation and joined the mob this week only to be well and truly foxed!
I got up to visit the bathroom just before five and saw that my bag had been utterly destroyed and the contents spread all over the road. Now, I am pretty good at not wasting food but the bag did contain substantial remains of Friday night's steaks (Sainsbury's Taste the Disappointment) and a well stripped chicken carcass, so I guess the foxes had a meagre sort of feast.
I couldn't go back to bed knowing it was my stuff littering the road so at five o'clock on
a Monday morning I was out sweeping the road - there must be more to life?
A couple of hours later the bin men run along chuucking bags into a massive pile and then another lot come along to chuck them into the lorry - managing to split open another bag and scatter the contents - right outside my house. Needless to say they didn't stop to clear it up - mine is not a happy broom.
Nor was I happy to read this weekend that the last government (1997-2010) are alleged to have been invilved in some very dodgy financial dealings - known as 'off-balance sheet'. It won't happen of course but those involved should be in the dock.
Talking of 'the dock' I see that a magistrate 'up north' is under investigation because he called a low life in his court 'scum'. Seems that the court clerk took exception to this and made a complaint - probably something to do with 'Yuman Rites'.
Has the world gone completely mad?
Isn't this weather lovely.
13 years ago, despite some social problems that needed serious attention, the UK was economically in the best state it had been for decades. The last Conservative government had dragged a country once referred to as the sick man of Europe, a country mocked around the world, a country gripped in economic turmoil and rife with strikes into being a nation to be proud of.
Then came the unholy trinity of Blair, Brown and Mandelson: -
Blair, a megalomaniac desperate for glory who has probably got three sixes about his person, dragged us into an unnecessary war at the cost of thousands of lives. His reward is to be a peace envoy!!!!
Brown, the architect of a financial system so admired it was adopted around the world but was so flawed it led to this current global crisis, so convinced of his own abilities he has tried telling us that his is the only way to solve the problems. It looks as if he will be aiming for a top job in world banking!!!!
Mandelson could pop up again anywhere but wherever it is you can be sure he will make a fortune.
You will forgive me reader if I sing:
Goodbye-ee, goodbye-ee,
Not a tear, Gordy dear,
In my eye-ee.
I truly hope that the new government will be given a fair crack of the whip as they attempt to deal with our bankrupt economy but folk are fickle and once the pain starts, and I really believe it will hurt, I fear that the unholy three will be rosily regarded as the best thing since Cromwell.
Luther last night was excellent. If you aren't watching you are missing a real treat. The scotch was pretty good too.
Politics - the art of governement, has become the art of power.
Maybe I am just being cynical but listening to the constant sound bites about 'the Nations interest' is beginning to annoy - the only interest this lot have is their own.
And is it just me that is fed up with 'rolling news'. A couple of news bulletins a day used to suffice unless there was a major catastrophe. Now we are subjected to the same news all day every day. And it's the same stuff repeated over and over again interspersed with 'expert' opinion. Boring!
Back on the bandwagon about spitting - some bloke who appears to be living 2 doors away from us (there is a high turnover of visitors at this house) left the house this morning, walked to ours, spat on our drive and then calmly went back. Nice!
This evening my doors will be firmly shut, the blinds drawn, a small tot poured, the news ignored and I shall settle down to watch episode 2 of Luther - one of life's small comforts.
I watched the Beeb's new drama offering last night - Luther, about a maverick cop.
Ok, so maybe it's a tried and tested format but I loved it and am looking forward to enjoying the next 5 episodes.
We also popped over to Notts to see Becky and Rob who were hoping to wow us with a BBQ but the weather put paid to that and we had lunch at one of the village pubs. It was excellent, beautifully cooked beef with all the trimmings hit the spot and it brought home the lack of such establishments where we reside. I want to move now - right next to the pub please.
I can't blog without mentioning the up-coming election and watching the TV this morning actually heard someone refer to the possibility of an 'HP'. Seems that it's the journalist's new speak for a hung parliament. I don't know about you but if indeed we do end up on Friday with an 'HP' we may have to go through all this palava again in a few months, so if you value your sanity I recommend voting a straightforward red or blue to ensure we get a government with a clear majority who can get on with ther job. Let's be honest, whoever gets in has got a bloody awaful mess to deal with and it's us suckers who will end up paying whether it's Gordy or Nice Dave.
It's gonna be a tough couple of years.
So, here is a little bit more of my political 'wish list'.
Spitting in public
Make it a criminal offence - punishment to be a week on hands and knees scrubbing our city centre streets with a toothbrush.
The Health Service
Records amounts of money fail to address some of the major issues. Staffs Hospital is a dreadful, though not entirely untypical, example of just how bad things can be. And let's not fall back on the excuse that is forever churned out about failing systems. The plain fact is that it is people who fail to do the job properly and in this case it comes down to doctors and nurses. In the last few days Gordy has been trying to win the massive vote of the medical 'profession' by referring to nurses as 'angels'.
It is certainly true that fifty years ago our nurses were dedicated folk who chose nursing as a vocation but things have changed and although a few good nurses are undoubtedly still around there are a lot who fall short and are not worthy of being referred to as angels. Many of them look as if they need a good scrub and I get cross when I hear some overweight smoker in a uniform lecturing patients on lifestyle. So I would like to see all nurses subject to some re-training, the core of which based on the real meaning of the word 'nursing'. According to the OED it means the care and comfort of the sick and injured.
Care and comfort, not form filling and food fights.
And why are our NHS hospital paying extortionate amounts of money employing agency nurses. All this does is line the pockets of the agencies who act as an expensive HR department. This practice should be abolished and staff employed direct by the NHS.
The public expectation of the NHS also need addressing. Hard though it may be for those who have problerms conceiving surely the vast sums of money currently expended on IVF would be better utilised drugs for the sick.
I know that desperate couples may find this a heartless statement but what can be more heartless than denying life saving drugs to a dying person.
I had intended to discuss immigration but it's a big, important and extremely emotive subject so maybe some other time.
Meanwhile, I would urge people who are seriously thinking of voting LibDem to take a look at their policies. Nick Clegg may have presented himself in a good light and there is no doubt that Vince Cable has grasped the economic nettle but dig deeper folks before you place your cross. There policies on immigration and Europe are not in the interests of this nation.
In a bid to win our votes they will say whatever they think we want to hear, and even then they can't get it right. Are these the best we can come up with to run our country!
So, here's the start of Sue's manifesto:
Let's begin with the elected members shall we.
- Full time only, no outside interests.
- £100k per year
- small car for business use - say a nice little Corsa
- Fully serviced accommodation provided near Westminster thus eliminating the two homes dodge.
- Admin assiustance provided at a sensible level - perhaps based on the old 'typing pool' system eh!
- Subject to the same employment rules as the rest of us.
- Loss of seat gives entitlement to redundancy pay on the same terms as the rest of us.
- Ministers and PM on a higher salary scale but with same terms & conditions.
Maybe they would do a better job if they worked a proper year and knew that loss of job meant loss of earnings full stop!
Banks
- All banks that have been bailed out by the tax payer to repay monies BEFORE any consideration is given to bonuses.
- If they tell us that they will lose staff if they don't pay bonuses then let them walk - where are they going to go? They should consider themselves fortunate that they still have jobs, without our money they would be on the dole and there will always be someone who can do the job.
No-one is indespensible.
The Benefit Culture
- All of our current politicians are afraid to tackle what has become the elephant in the room .
- The original concept of the welfare state is a noble and admirable one, a safety net to help and support the weak and vulnerable. Thats a long way from what we have now.
- So I propose that benefits are cut back to their original purpose to stop this culture of scrounging. Last week saw yet another example reported of a couple who live on £42k in tax free benefit because they want a tribe of children. They happily stated they were ENTITLED and it was STATE money as they enjoyed their two top of the range motors, the plasma screen and Sky TV. Sue's rules say get of your fat lardy backside and support your kids yourself - this working pensioner pays tax and I don't do it to support the lazy, the feckless and the selfish.
- If an otherwise fit and healthy unemployed person is offered a job within an accessible 10 mile journey from home and refuses to take it then benefit should be stopped without any ado.
I know that this brings a risk of unscrupulous employers offering minimum wage only but surely we can come up with a scheme that ensures fairness.
Our benefit bill now exceeds income from taxation, I reckon this would save billions and end the unfair accusation of 'they come over here pinching our jobs (even though I don't want to do it) '
Crime
Get tough
- Paedophiles. Much as I would like to see them burn in hell we do live in what is considered a civilised society so something a little more humane - interred forever means they would be allowed to live, which is more than they deserve. Harsh perhaps but horrific crimes against innocent children mean they forego the right to live in decent and free society. Something along the lines of the Russian Gulags sounds pretty darn fine to me, no less than they deserve.
- Child killers - hang 'em.
- Sentences should be what they say, get 10 years, serve 10 years, no remission.
- Prison lifestyles. Prison should not be an easy ride so none of this key to his own cell malarky.
The economy
Some of the above would save billions and I reckon Vince Cable could save even more whilst helping to stimulate businesses. He is the only real plus the Lib Dems have.
Next I will be tackling Immigration and the Health Service.
This is The Grumpy Old Ladies Party - wanna join?
So, three of the MPs who have been charged with fiddling their expenses (that's stealing from you and me) have been granted legal aid for their defence (that's you and me again!)
You couldn't make it up!
Conned
I am trying really hard not to get too angry with all the baloney that is being spouted in the election campaign - but it's hard to watch & read as they all try to con us. Seems a hung parliament is on the cards, well let's hang 'em all I say!
Fed
The weekend was lovely and included a catch up with an old friend - we had a very nice lunch at Woktastic in Paradise Place - oodles of lovely noodles, it's worth a visit.
Yes, this is probably the most important election in recent times but we are all in danger of being overwhelmed by the media frenzy, and the politicians who are going to take advantage of todays method of communication. Every vote will count but we are likely to be the most confused, bemused electorate in history so I recommend taking a deep breath, standing back and taking a look at the broader picture that the last 50 years presents - you get a better perspective. The past is a good indicator for the future.
Staying in the OTT theme I have been following this seasons Masterchef which has reached new heights in going a tad too far. It's been great telly but come on, is Alain Ducasse really in posession of the most refined and greatest taste buds in the world? Just who decides on this kind of silliness? It all smacks of the Emporors new clothes.
Well, our plans for a trip out to the Cotswolds at the weekend went belly-up!
The old dear was feeling rough and he spent most of the time tucked up in bed surfacing only for food and his favourite TV programmes.
I did manage to get out with a pal to see Alice in Wonderland which, despite some poor reviews, I thoroughly enjoyed and would happily watch again, but that was it.
So, I was at home when a nice young man rang asking me if I would consider voting for the Labour party.
My mind wandered back a few decades and I knew that had I been asked that same question my younger, red flag waving socialist self would have had no hesitation in answering in the affirmative. But I've gained a couple of brain cells and a wealth of experience in the interevening years so had to tell the poor bloke a resounding NO!
We had an in-depth conversation about my reasons, there was a long list, and fair play to the bloke he had to concede that I had some valid points that he could not argue with.
Then came the tricky question of who I would vote for and I must admit I am really not convinced yet that Nice Dave and his buddies have really got to grips or are strong enough to deal with the massive socio-economic issues. I keep getting the feeling that they are saying what they think we want to hear.
Well Dave, it's a bloody mess out there mate.
Now, where's my handbag!
Trains & Planes
Maybe I am missing something but the media seem to be showing some bias towards employers when it comes to reporting on the BA strike and the up-coming rail strike. There has been barely any coverage of the reasons why the employees are taking such drastic action, action which does nothing to gain public support and everything to disrupt the lives of ordinary working men and women.
Having said that I do think that unions have forgotten what they are really all about. They are a great instituion, responsible for ending some pretty dreadful working practices and for obtaining decent pay and conditions. Members or not, we all now benefit from the sacrifices made by previous campaigners.
We now enjoy the benefit of legislation for minimum wage, restricted working hours, health & safety, holiday pay, sick pay and much more, so I am at something of a loss to understand exactly what role they now have.
One thing is for sure though, it is not the job of unions to run companies or make decisions about how they are run, they need to stick to the original brief!
Currently Reading: -
Winston Churchill's History of the British Speaking Peoples - a surprisingly good read. I know that History is generally viewed as a bit of a dry (if not dead) subject, but it's the greatest source of how to do/how not to do anything and this book imparts a great understanding of what makes we British tick. It should be on the National Curriculum.
The weekend: -
My sister came and spent some time with us following her op for breast cancer. She amazed me with her stoicism treating the whole affair the same as if she had just been to the dentist! She certainly hasn't lost her appetite and it was a pleasure to cook for her, raise a glass to all those brave ladies.
It's Red Box Day
Don't get excited, it's red box not red letter!
Yes folks, it's budget day, the final one before the election and Mr Darling will no doubt be wearing his most beneficial face as he tells us all how the government have made us a better society during the last 13 years. This will be followed by his gravest face as he tells us we must now deal with the defecit, brought about by external forces of course, and that things may be tough for a while, but not as tough as they would be if the opposition got in. This will be followed by his optimistic face as he talks about preserving jobs.
It will be bunkum!
It's a stage for a bit of electioneering and the jobs he will be working so hard to preserve are his own and those of his cronies.
There is nothing in it for you and me matey!
Ian Huntley
It is reported that the cost of protecting this evil child killer from any further attacks could reach up to a million a year.
Sorry, but as far as I am concerned he should take his chances, he committed a vile crime and he should be paying the price, it shouldn't be us who bear that burden.
It's high time this kind of madness stopped.
A million would be better spent supporting the prison officers who risk life and limb every day dealing with the drugs, weapons and mobile phones that are now rife in our prisons.
It is supposed to be a place of punishment - why aren't they breaking rocks!!!!
Smoking
The medical profession have called for it to be an offence to smoke in any vehicle, including a private car.
I was once a heavy smoker but gave up in the early nineties so you would probably expect me to be one of those holier than thou evangelists - but no!
OK, the intention is an honourable one but how can we ban the private use of tobacco when it is sold legally and a large percentage of the proceeds from it's sale go to the public purse?
It would be impossible to police - look at how many drivers still use mobile phones.
No, sorry doctors but until fags become illegal then people should be free to smoke in their own homes and cars.
So, that's just some of the news in today's media - I think I will just look at my stars and do the crossword now.
I could bang on about MPs and the latest sleaze or maybe comment about the state of our prisons, I may be tempted to comment on a whole raft of things that plague our society - but I'll give it a rest today and talk food.
I tried Raymond Blanc's apple tart (his Mothers recipe) a couple of weeks ago and was disappointed - it was just apple tart in the end. But undeterred, I had another go at the weekend,: - less pastry, more of everything else - apples, calvados, cream, sugar. It was a hit and got polished off pretty quickly.
I made a start on the garden on Sunday - glorious weather - and have cleared one small corner, lots more to do but now I am in the groove I expect to spend a lot more time out there - may even get that veggie patch this year!
I kicked off on Friday with a spot of baby-sitting, Tom & Harry were very entertaining and went to bed on the dot leaving me to enjoy a whole night of telly - haven't done that for a while and I loved The Mentalist.
We did a 'Mothering Sunday' visit to Radcliffe where we were treated to a superb Sunday Roast and a tootle around the nearby villages before setting off back home to catch up with the weekend's papers.....
....which are full of doom and gloom. ...
...we are being talked into a 'Hung Parliament' even though none of us have voted yet and the electoral campaign gets murkier by the day.
...the do-gooders are debating the issue of whether a ten-year old murderer should be considered old enough to know the difference between right & wrong with little or no regard for the feelings of a mother robbed of her beautiful son.
...Gordie (you know the bloke, PM and leader of the not so socialist Labour Party) has condemned the union who are fighting BA ( six of one, half a dozen of the other!) whilst saying nothing about the East Anglian company who flout racism laws by employing only Polish workers.
...MPs charged with fiddling their expenses continue to protest their innocence
...bankers continue to get bonuses before their organisations have repaid the taxpayer
....those of us who have worked all our lives ( I am in my 49th working year now), have contributed to the wealth of the nation, have always been self-reliant and have provided for self and family are likely in the future to be rewarded by having to pay for any care we may need in our old age.
Thank heavens for this lovely weather, they haven't taxed it yet - have they?????
They plan to sell the potholes - the idea is that you buy a pothole for about 15 Euros and, when the local authority fill it in they inscribe it with a name of your choice, so you can dedicate it to your loved one.
Great idea for businesses too I would have thought, a new version of street advertising.
Of course I can imagine lots of people wanting to buy a pothole, have it inscribed with the name of their spouse, and then run over it - several times!!!
None of us can speculate about why, we can only hope that it was a small misdemeanor, but at best it demonstrates that the authorities are monitoring him and his like. On the other side of the coin it raises the question as to whether he should have been released in the first place.
Now Peter Sutcliffe is about to launch a legal-aid funded bid for freedom, it will cost us millions. This vile creature, dubbed the Yorkshire Ripper during his reign of terror, says he is cured and I read that he is in contact with a number of deluded women at least one of which is desperately 'in love' with him!
Regular blog-watchers will be in no doubt as to my opinion about the likes of Sutcliffe but whether you agree or not with my hard-line surely no-one can be in any doubt that our judicial and penal system has forgotten it's purpose, which is to punish the guilty and protect the public - it's not there to treat and cure.
Last night was Apple night: - Mamans Apple Tarte (Mums Apple Pie) looked scrumptious, I will be having a bash at the weekend, and he did an apple souffle (I'm not attempting that!).
He is an unrivalled talent but he does have one advantage in the shape of Adam - Adam responds immediately to:
Get me (sugar, apples, pots, pans, etc etc)
Whisk this
Chop that
Put this in the (fridge, freezer, oven)
Clear this ....
I want an Adam in my kitchen!
Adding to the fun one of the panel had a list of what are now standard judging remarks, you know the sort of thing (more later).
I have also been tuning in to watch quite a bit of the Winter Olympics - holding my breath at the dare devils who speed skate and career downhill on the edge of their skis, it's really scary stuff.
Clearly all this TV has had an effect because at sometime during the night I had a really scary nightmare. In a freezing theatre sited on the edge of a mountain I was part of an X-Factor judging panel and first up was Nice Dave who gave a rendition of Home Sweet Home. This was rewarded with Simon Cowell saying 'Very nice Dave, you have potential but you need to be a bit more convincing'. Sadly the theatre was empty and the roof crumbling.
A kind of Vampire band then did a turn, Mandy was complete with horns and cloak as he slimed the words to Change The World accompanied by Toothy Tone with Bully Boy Brown running around in his underpants hitting the backing singers (Hazel & Harriet I think). I turned to see a full house, cheering away and heard a disembodied voice say 'That's what this competition is all about, you owned the stage'.
I must stop eating cheese late at night.
We get our anorexic hyperthyroid cat back today. She went to the Vet for a 'dental' last week but they weren't happy with her pre-op blood results (kidneys aren't too good) so they kept her in the Hospital and put her on a drip. She has now improved, has had six teeth out, and I have to see the now Vet to discuss where we go from here. Poor little mite has been my companion for nearly 17 years so I will grin and pay up although I am expecting it to be a hefty bill this time. Good job I love her eh!
Last Woman Standing takes 5 female British athletes to complete against tribal champions in some of the most remote parts of the world.
Last night the girls were with the Xavante tribe in the Mato Grosso region of Brazil competing in log running - running in a long (I think it was at least 5k) relay race with a 50kilo log on their shoulders in blistering heat.
European Boxing Champion Lesley Sackey was last night's champ and I have to say she is a great ambassador for her sport - as well as being very fit she is beautiful, witty, funny, articulate and intelligent. And she can pack a punch!
....Gordie baring his soul to Piers Morgan - sorry but the cynic in me just sees an election looming.
I didn't watch Episode 3 of Tower Block of Commons either - just not in the mood for any more politicians at the moment.
I diud see some of the Winter Olympics however, how scary are they? The moguls on Sunday made my knees ache just watching - fantastic stuff.
Today is Shrove Tuesday. It has been a long standing joke at home that my daughter suffered a deprived childhood 'cos I couldn't master the art of pancake making so we went without them.
I have bought some ready made ones for tonight - cynic and cheat!
I watched part two of 'Tower Block of Commons' last night and felt absolute despair.
MP's who are paid more than £60k plus expenses (don't get me started on expenses!) are living on the equivalent of state benefits with some of our unemployed for a few days.
One of the unemployed asked an MP how he could justify expenses such as claiming for a bag of crisps or cleaning but did not get a straight or sensible answer.
Another of the unemployed had £150 a week for her food bill and, having spent £105 at the supermarket proceeded to blow the remainder on fags!
The MP's were really unable to justify their expenses and the unemployed all appeared to consider their benefits inadequate, despite laptops, tattoos, weed and ready meals!
Stuck in the middle of this is the good old taxpayer, who funds both of these extremes.
Now I know that it is a case of 'there but for the grace of God' and any of us could find ourselves unemployed and living in council housing but there did seem to be a distinct lack of ambition - I kept shouting 'get of your a**' which was probably unfair as there did not seem to be anything in place to encourage or help people on the road to self sufficency.
The programme is a real insight to modern Britain and it's one I don't like. Even our PM has resorted to crying! What's happened? When did we become this weak, snivelling breed? When did kissing strangers on both cheeks as soon as you meet become an acceptable replacement for a good handshake and 'how do you do'?
Where is the famed British stiff upper lip and good strong backbone?
Mines a double!
Interesting isn't it that the most honesty and integrity has been demonstrated by two women - the other being Elizabeth Wilmhurst who resigned as Deputy Legal Adviser in the FO in 2003.
Girls Rule - OK!
I had kippers for dinner last night - with a poached egg and some lovely fresh crusty bread and butter.
It was heavenly.
Apart from spending a couple of hours on Saturday morning making my very small contribution to a medical research project I had nothing much planned this weekend, other than the usual shopping, cooking, cleaning.....etc.
So, I seemed to watch a lot of telly.
Watching TV in the afternoon seems somewhat decadent but I thoroughly enjoyed the Dolly Parton concert on Saturday before cooking the old man his favourite curry.
Sunday night's Dancing on Ice produced some pretty unacceptable comments from judge Jason. Comparing the beautiful Sharon Davis to feotal matter swimming around was just a step too far. Apparently he has now issued an apology but I really do wish he would grow up, learn some manners and think before he speaks - it's just not clever.
Last night brought some more serious matter to the small screen in the form of a Channel 4 project whereby a few MPs spend a few days living Tower block life. They didn't know what had hit them!
Lib Dem Mark Oeten in Barking made an effort but was clearly shocked at the state of the property.
Tory Tim Loughten in Birmingham's Newtown made a real effort and was impressed by his hosts attitude and ambition.
Best of all was Labour's Austin Mitchell who insisted on having his own flat, his wife to 'do' for him and his car - which he used to great advantage when he scooted off to have dinner with friends - ah so that's socialism!!!
It was a clear picture of the extremes we have in this country - privileged, cossetted, out of touch MPs and the underclass that our welfare state has created, often drug fuelled, living in very near squalid conditions and lacking any ambition because the benefit system does not encourage self reliance. I can't wait until next weeks episode.
.. to ignore some of the heavier stuff in the news without passing comment, so here goes:
The Iraq Enquiry
This may not have the allure and glamour of the Brad & Angelina break-up but is far more important - despite my misgivings that this would be yet another whitewash I really do think we are getting somewhere near the truth. The truth of course won't bring back the dead and it is unlikely that Blair and his cronies will ever stand accused before the Haig, but I have a small glimmer of hope that at the very least he will finally be seen for what he is. He is yet to give his version of events and I am expecting a vomit worthy performance, no doubt followed by a visit to his priest for forgiveness!!
Our children
Our Social Services are a national disgrace - each tragedy is followed by some spokesperson trotting out the now meaningless mantra of 'lessons being learned'.
Sadly, they never are.
Another two young boys have been removed from society (for rehabilitation rather than
punishment) for dreadful crimes of torturing other children. Social services were well aware of their 'toxic' home life yet instead of removing them before they were turned into monsters, they did nothing.
In contrast to this a young couple who were deemed by social services as not intelligent enough to raise a child had their baby snatched from them. They may well have proved to be good and loving parents yet no process was in place to offer them support or supervision to raise the child.
How can they keep getting it so wrong - lessons are not being learned and the whole system needs a bloody good shake up.
We continue to see terrible scenes of deprivation in Haiti - it's the plight of orphaned children that really makes you want to do something. Adoption agencies will be overwhelmed by well intentioned couples wanting to adopt (has Madonna been there yet?) but the country needs to keep these kids - they are it's future.
I have long been a supporter of SOS Childrens Villages, they do fantastic work. Orphans are raised in there own culture, in small groups with a 'Mother' and sponsorship helps to feed, clothe and educate them to be productive members of their country. Check them out, if you are feeling generous send 'em some money, who knows you may be instrumental in the making of a future nurse, doctor, teacher or food grower.
So, in essence Cadbury workers are bankrolling a deal that may ultimately see them lose their jobs!
You couldn't make it up.
I know that sometimes I can go on a bit about the old man but despite his (many!) faults he is a safe driver so our incident on Thursday evening shook us both.
He picked me up in Solihull and was driving home when a dog shot out in front of the car. The thud was sickening yet the dog ran off and, in as far as we could, we established that it was OK. The same can't be said for the car - a massive crack in the nearside wing and god know what else the body shop will uncover!
Please keep your doggie on a lead.
The situation in Haiti is desperate and I reckon that if I were in those circumstances I would climb over anyone to get food and water for my family - lets hope that the aid effort becomes more efficient soon. Friends in Sri Lanka contacted us after the Tsunami to say that those made homeless had been given small tents and blankets - which were no use at all in that hot and humid climate - they needed food, water and the equipment to resume their business .,
Cadbury workers must be spitting feathers - what a shame that one of the last British companies in the area is set to join all the other foreign owned concerns - there's not much left of our own now it seems!
Sometime in the last few days ( I have lost track of time for some reason) I watched a TV re-run of Elvis in Hawaii - he would be 75 now but he has no equal - is still the King.
It's been about 20 years since I did any knitting but for some reason fancied taking it up again. All the High Street wool shops have disappeared so I ended up in Hobbycraft, bought some wool and some pins as I couldn't remember if I still had any. I found them later - but they are numbered from 1 upwards as opposed to the new ones which seem, like everything else with a measurement, to have gone metric. So I am knitting - nothing in particular, just practising the stitches, it's very relaxing. It may be a scarf or a blanket - who cares.
Had my porridge with honey to start the day and listened to Chris Evans on R2 on the way to work this morning - so much better than Tel. But he played the new stereophonics release which was dreadful, the same lyric endlessly repeated - a waste of airtime.
Travelling was easier today as most roads are clear and the ice is starting to thaw but I have been struck by how relaint we are on the local authorities to do everything for us. People moaning about the state of the pavements, yet back in the day shopkeepers and householders would, as a matter of course, clear outside their premises and then spread salt making most pavements passable. No-one bothers any more, maybe they are all scared of the Elf and Safety brigade. I came across them last week when I bought some paint and stuff in Homebase. The lady on the till put some of the stuff in a bag but advised me that she was not allowed to put even the small tins in - seems that if they fell through the bag and hit my toe it would contravene H&S procedure - madness.
Someone (was it Napoleon) said we were a nation of shopkeepers but I think we have become a nation of sheep!
Just saw the picture of Shaun's new cat - I am in love!
There was lots of cooking (and lots of eating) and I confess I was pretty tired (but happy) by the time Sunday rolled around. So, New Year was a non event and I was happy to just sneak off to bed at midnight.
2009 was fine on the personal front so I am not complaining but it was a dire year for us as a country, a year when any delusions we may have had about our politicians and our bankers was finally dispelled, a year when we have to accept that we are a broken society and the world is a more dangerous place now than ever.
So much for progress!
So will the next decade bring a better world - nice idea isn't it?
Sadly I think that things are set to get a whole lot worse - economic and social catastrophe are a very real threat and there is no-one on the horizon who has the integrity and mettle to steer us through.
Will it be Bumbling Brown, Nice Dave or Nerdy Nick - what a shower!
Happy New Year.
The weekend flew by as usual - my eldest sister put on a meal for the family on Saturday. Historically these events usually end up with a sibling argument, mainly because I bite at something but I am proud to say I managed to keep my mouth shut this year and it all passed off peacefully. Wisdom at last eh!
I then spent the best part of two days cleaning the house to within an inch of it's life (it's a girl thing!) and finally sat down with a cuppa to admite my shiny home knowing all I need to do is keep on top of it all over Christmas. I watched as the cat strolled through the living room leaving a trail of fur and the old man covered his bit of carpet with the crumbs from the bag of crisps he was scoffing. Wisdom don't last long!
I am now looking forward to the festive season, the kids are with us for a few days and I can do the Mum thing, the problems of the world can go on hold briefly and I may enjoy a glass or two of my favourite tipple.
Happy Christmas to you all.
Thinking I may need to the last of the Christmas shopping I had left the weekend free but, as I had already managed to get pretty well all the pressies, found myself with a spare Sunday. Determined not to waste the time I thought I would paint the box room/office/dumping ground and had almost finished the ceiling when unexpected guests descended! Now it is lovely to see folk but when they don't let you know they are coming it is a bit disturbing - I struggled to clean myself up, make drinks and stretch the food but we coped. I haven't got back to the painting yet!
They left in time for us to see the X Factor final, which was an excellent show. Li'l Geordie Joe was a worthy winner and I wish him every success. I think they showed a few of the failed wannabees too - a Greek geezer who looked like some sleazy Mafia hood did a turn and an old scouser dressed in a 1960's suit croaked his way through a couple of numbers. Funniest of all was Robbie from Stoke who did a fabulous James Cagney impression.
Sadly not everyone enjoyed the show - there is a campaign on Facebook in support of a rather explicit number by Rage Against the Machine in the hope that it will stop the X Factor winner from hitting the No. 1 spot for Christmas - how sad that they can't make it in their own right and have to resort to such a shoddy trick.
I heard Carrie Grant (or is it Cary Grant) the vocal coach condemning the X factor process which I thought a bit petty - wasn't she involved in a similar show with her hubby at one time? Sour Grapes methinks.
OK, so it's not the South Bank show or a classy arts or culture programme, it's just entertainment and more than 19 million of us love it. I don't care if Simon Cowell makes a mint from it, I just wish we celebrated success in this country instead of knocking it.
No doubt in 20 years Melvyn Bragg (or his equivalent) will make a serious (hypocritical) cultural programme about the genre and it will be viewed differently.
There is a bit of a Saturday night gap now - let's hope there are some good movies in the pipeline.
The Equalities and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has a new project.
Whenever you encounter a state organisation, such as when you go into hospital, you will be asked your sexual orientation and this information will be passed to the EHRC.
They say that this will enable future social planning to be fairer.
Now I don't believe that social planning should have any relevance to whether you are straight, gay, bisexual or have any other legal preferences. I have long held the belief that what consenting adults do is their own business.
Regardless of preference we all pay the same dues and as such are all due the same treatement so I recommend that if you are asked this question you tell them to sod off and mind their own business.
Birth Control
Back in 1950 (when I was playing with dolls) the population of the world was 2.3 billion
Experts tell us that this earth of ours can only sustain 5 billion
Today the population stands at 6.1 billion
The net increase (Births less deaths) is 70 million a year
The estimated population in 2050 will be more than 9 billion
I am just a little old lady so I am unlikely to live long enough to see the catastrophic effects that will ensue if this rise isn't stemmed, and indeed reversed. But you and your kids - well folks you need to take action to protect your future.
This massive increase is primarily in the third world where women do not have ready or free access to birth control and as a result churn out child after child that they cannot adequately support. They are desperate for help.
Sir David Attenborough , I think you will agree he is a very credible bloke, is patron of an organisation which promotes population offsetting. So - take a flight, donate to birth control.
It seems to me that this will have greater benefits than anything that the almost 300 countries will come up with on their jolly in Copenhagen.
I am joining the cause.
Chocolate
I love the occasional square of Cadbury's - draw your own conclusions!
My lovely friend Chris has won a bar meal for two and has kindly invited me to share it with her so this evening I will be enjoying a free scoff (and a good old chat).
My lovely daughter has won a make over for two with top stylists in London and has asked her old Mum to join her so In January I will enjoy some pampering and (hopefully) return home a new woman.
They say thing run in three so I am hoping that one of my loved ones wins the lottery next!
On the monetary front I read an interesting article by James Palumbo at the weekend. Mr Palumbo was a top financier and is now head of the very successful Ministry of Sound so I guess he knows a bit about money. He reckons that the country is in a far worse financial state than we are being led to believe, that the politicians are keeping the truth from us and that the safest place for your money is in cash and under the mattress!
I have more faith in Mr P than in Mr Brown.
Back in the day it was an offence to spit - notices adorned walls and buses advising 'Spitting is Prohibited' and people were, quite rightly, reviled by the habit.
Somewhere along the way it has become almost obligatory in some sections of our society to spit at every opportunity and seems to no longer be an offence - yet it remains a disgusting habit.
This morning a boy of no more than about twelve crossed the road in front of us and spat happily as he went, in fact there were several such instances on my short journey including a woman!
Now perhaps this is some kind of myth but I think I read somewhere that TB can be transmitted in saliva - the very same TB that we had almost eradicated in this country but which is now on the increase, coincidence maybe?
And we have some wonderful role models - footballers seem to have incorporated the habit as part of the game. Admittedly I am not an expert so perhaps the modern footballer has some physical reason for needing to spit on the pitch, but what excuse is there for managers and coaches to go on the pitch at the end of play and join in?
Stop it - it's disgusting
....overdraft charges is outrageous.
I am hoping that someone will set up a new 'People's Bank' and we can all shift our business away from the greedy grasping breed of banker currently ripping us off in all directions.
If this does ever happen a I hope any new bank will refrain from installing self service - following on from my IKEA experience I popped into the bank at the weekend to pay in a cheque for the old man. Having duly filled in the slip and popped it into a deposit envelope I put it in the quick deposit in the knowledge that a human would eventually deal with it. Then I looked for another batch of envelopes for next time - there were none. So I asked a member of staff who advised 'we don't do them anymore'. Seems that we now have to make deposit using a self serve machine.
Now I know it's cutting my nose of to spite my face but I am damned if I will - so I will stand in the queue and make a body do his/her job - or do they deserve to lose the job for being so bloody compliant - slaves to the machine soon to be unemployed!
X Factor is great entertainment and I am already getting hooked on 'I'm a Celebrity' which is in danger of becoming the Katie Price Show - who cares, it's a good watch. I love designers Justin and Colin and of course Kim is just brilliant. I have no idea who a couple of the celebs are - who is Stuart?
But tonight it all goes on hold - class wins in the form of Spooks ( and a glass of something relaxing methinks).
So, I've done the obligatory trawl round IKEA (in case there is anything new and exciting) before picking up my flat packs and heading for the checkout. Happily standing there with just three customers before me, I am pounced on by a member of staff who asks how I will be paying. When I advise that it will be by card she drags me off to stand in a 'faster' queue - only when it's too late do I realise that I am now at the self-serve checkout! By this time I have lost my place in the human queue and having endured a frustrating conversation with the machine slave who accosted me I stay where I am, only to see that the original line I was in has moved at a pretty slick pace. By the time I reach the machine I would probably have been halfway home.
The halfwit I spoke with assured me that the introduction of these damned machines didn't mean a loss of jobs as there were two people employed to supervise the four checkouts - guess I can't add up anymore then!
I have no doubt that my dislike of these self service points will be attributed to age but I know of a number of young techno happy people who dislike them as much as me - they are not really any faster, often don't work efficiently and are replacing humans.
Service is on the way out - we have to pick our own goods and cart them around the store and even where humans still scan the items the till operators no longer swipe the card - even that is now self serve!
I am just not comfortable about having a machine bark orders at me and there is an Orwellian whiff about peoples acceptance and obediance - Is it just me who finds this all a bit wrong?
Something else that is wrong - oh so very wrong - is our species poor performance at caring for our young. It's hard to credit that so many children were sent to Australia in the 40's, 50's and even 60's, often without the knowledge of their kinsfolk and often into terrible circumstances. Today's news advises us that increasing numbers of children (it runs into tens of thousands) are preyed upon by pheodophiles and yet more fuss is made by the public over fox hunting!
It really is high time we dealt with these vile people in a fitting manner - once found guilty of this heinous crime they should be locked away forever. Lock 'em all up together, let them abuse each other, nuke them, whatever, just don't let them loose again.
On a more positive note, we had a smashing lunch at the Boot at Mappleborough Green on Sunday - it was packed but we got a table and enjoyed great food and good service - long may bit last.
Left 62%
Right 38%
I am no wiser now!
I was born just off 'the pool' which was a busy thriving shopping area that holds fond memories - Mr Morris the butcher was a local farmer selling his own produce, the Home & Colonial - a forerunner of the deli , the Spiv shop which sold everything from socks to aprons, pillowcases to tea towels, lots of shoe shops, clothes shops, a cobbler, dry cleaner, chemist etc etc. People came from miles to shop or visit the 'flea pit' cinema which closed decades ago and there was a jumble sale almost weekly in the church or school halls.
But, times move on and that way of life has disappeared. Don't get me wrong, life was not a bed of roses, it was pretty hard for many and I would not like to see a return to some of it's aspects. But occasionally I do feel a twinge of sadness when I see the changes that have been so dramatic they have wiped out an entire way of life.
One enjoyable aspect of that bygone age was bonfire night. As kids we would make a guy and do the tradional 'penny for the guy' in order to make enough money to buy some fireworks. We had a garden bonfire on 5th November, let off our fireworks and scoffed baked spuds. As we got older we would trawl around the street bonfires that were often held at crossroads (traffic was minimal in those days and car drivers just drove around them) - can you imagine the reaction that you would get these days from the 'Elf & Safety' brigade !
Fireworks still form a big part of all sorts of celebrations and the area we live in now enjoys them for more that three months a year - it starts with Eid, moves on to Diwali, then Halloween and bonfire night ending up with Christmas and New Year. Sadly, the celebrations are not restricted to those special days and pretty well every night from Eid to New Year some loon feels the need to compete with some other loon to see who can make the most noise. And the modern firework is a pretty powerful noise in comparison to the weaklings we had back in the day (don't believe the urban myth about blowing off dustbin lids - it never happened).
Rob has gone off with my old sewing machine, he is going to clean and service it and then have a go at some tailoring - if he's any good I'll be over for a fitting.
I have been watching a little programme on Monday evenings about families in Wales who have gone back to 1944 living - small miners cottages and the exact way of life that was experienced in wartime. It has been fascinating watching them adapt to rationing, digging for victory, taking in evacuees etc and it has brought out the very best in people, stay at home women helping out the working women without any prompting by cleaning and cooking for them. Despite a way of life that is hard in comparison to modern living they seemed to have had a lot of fun and although we will never return to that situation there is something to be said for the spirit that binds people in hard times.
So, we are propping up the banks again! Something like another 30 billion of our money is to be pumped into them even though they are to be sold off! Mr Darling was trying his best to present this as a positive on this morning's news but it seems fairly evident that the good bits will go and the toxic debt will be left in our laps. Seems that the government has no choice however as the directive to sell off parts of the banks in order to create many more, smaller, more competitive companies has come from Europe! All the talk of a referendum and ratification seems to be smoke and mirrors - looks as if we are already governed by Europe.
Finally, I have to mention Andre Agassi! I know he wants to sell his book but the wig story would have been enough, did he really have to confess about the drugs? Taking them is unforgiveable, getting away with it was shameful but confessing after such a long time does no-one any good. What is this modern-day obsession with having to unburden yourself - there is much to be said for discretion - it's the better part of valour!
,,, some of his home grown produce in yesterday so last night we enjoyed delicious sweet leeks - sauteed gently in a little salted butter - as an accompaniment to chicken. The leeks were the star dish, there is no comparison to the sterile veg I usually get from Sainsbury.
Tonight we will be scoffing his betroot. Beets are a real favourite of mine and I am looking forward to dinner already.
Becky and Rob are coming over on Sunday so I am pondering on what culinary feast to spoil them with - but it won't be the leeks and betroot 'cos I'll have eaten it all by then.
The Beeb were guilty of stage managing the debacle, perhaps to dilute the criticism that had been levelled at them for inviting the questionable and somewhat slimy Nick Griffin on to the programme, and the carefully selected audience were blatantly unrepresentative of the public at large.
I will refrain from commenting on the individual behavour of the panelists but will state that not one person there represented me or my views, but then according to one panelist, there is no such thing as being either English or 'indigenous' and so it appears I don't exist.
Another telly programme of interest is the series where celebs spend a week 'living on the breadline' - generally these are people on benefit and are classed as poor. One single Mum with 5 children has to 'manage' on two hundred and sixty five pounds a week (more than many a working family man takes home). Now I have never been in that position so it's hard to pass judgement but is the modern definition of poverty really an excuse for not cleaning your house, not parenting your children?
There is a disabled pensioner, classed as living on the breadline, who plays bingo three times a week at 16 pounds a time and feeds the slot machines on a regular basis.
Keith Allen, spending a week as a substitute Dad has been impressive - cleaning a filthy kitchen and cooking good wholesome food.
So - between paying taxes to pay banking bonuses and help support the (poor) I'm not doing too bad for someone who doesn't exist am I.
As you can imagine, I have been shouting at the telly again!
Digressing - I started a new audit at a car body repair business and had been there about an hour when the proprietor asked 'D'yow know 'ow to use kettle?' My yes answer was met with 'well gerroff yer a*** and meck me tea then'. Now I wasn't particularly well paid at the time but knew that the practice who employed me would bill me out at about 25-30 pounds and hour, so I was happy to take my time making his tea knowing it would be the most expensive cuppa he ever had.
Back to the plot - I was quite happy making toast for the builders mid-morning break, supplying sandwiches at lunchtime and endless cups of tea all day but also had requests for:
- Have you got a piece of 3 x 2?
- Have you got a silicone gun?
- Have you got a couple of damp cloths?
- Have you got a dustpan and brush?
- Have you got a broom?
They didn't arrive until well after nine and were done b y 3.15.
Bring back the bloke who started at 8, had his own tools, a packed lunch and a flask and put in a full day.
And I had to clean up!
This followed a quiet weekend - I picked a red cabbage and preserved some oranges in spicy port - lovely with game or ham. And of course I watched X Factor. Do I observe correctly? Is Simon a little smitten with the lovely Cheryl? If so, it would explain the playground behavior - when he is nasty to her to hide his feelings .........Oh dear am I losing it?
Probably - I spent 20 minutes this morning looking for my purse.
It was in the bread bin - where else!
He made his 'come-back' appearance on Saturday's X-Factor and I don't think I am alone in noticing his eyes or the state he was in. Sad boy.
I love X-Factor.
I don't love greedy MP's - can you believe that they still don't get it.? Seems some of them are seriously thinking of challenging the auditors demand for payback on the grounds that he has changed the rules. As I understand it he has done no more than exercise the spirit of the existing rule of being reasonable so they should pay up and shut up. If they don't then I think we should take to the streets and demand they be removed from the House.
And, as you know, I love a good grumble too.
And mackerel formed the skills test in last night's Masterchef - I just love this programme and this year we have Michel Roux Jr. and his sidekick Monica - who is just marvellous - more please.
The old darling rattled a few pots on Sunday when he did a magic roast dinner - pork, all the trimming and mouth watering crackling.
Finally, I think the Party Conference season is drawing to a close with the Tories having their bash - you would hope that with an election looming and the country in such a sorry state someone would have the guts to grasp the nettle and tell the truth. Instead Nice Dave has followed the other leaders and has become annoyingly adept at avoidance. My Dad used to have a saying that involved 'they all' followed by P and pot!
It's all going to pot.
.. with Chris - we met up for a meal and a darn good moan last night and had a good giggle into the bargain.
She gave me a great tip for getting rid of nuisance phone calls . It involves Jesus so I won't elaborate in case it offends anyone - but it is funny.
Then I had a moan about the silly girl in the hairdressers - I rang last week to make an appointment, it went something like this:
Me: Can I make an appointment for Friday afternoon with Becci please?
Receptionist: We can't do the afternoon, can you come in the morning?
Me: Sure, about ten or eleven maybe?
Silly Receptionist: We can do 2.30
Me: OWKAY! 2.30 it is then
Her: What's your name?
Me: I give my name and add: 'if I arrive 15 minutes earlier can I see the beautician for a brow shape?'
The idiot: 15 minutes - that will be two o clock then
Me: Er no, that would be 2.15
Dumbo: Oh yeah - 2.15 - what's your name?
Me: The same as last time you asked.
Dumbo idiot: Oh right, what's your name?
I'm sure her Mum loves her
I am not watching Strictly - it's my little 'old lady' protest over the whole Arlene business - instead I am watching the X Factor - just as rubbishy but we all love rubbish sometimes.
I did a spot of baby-sitting on Friday - it was a much later night than anticipated so I was a bit 'bleary' on Saturday and had lots to do as Becky & Rob made a lovely surprise visit.
We hit the shops on Sunday and then I did a Delia recipe with a lovely leg of lamb - with a redcurrant, orange and mint sauce - followed by lemon cream and raspberries.
It was smashing to catch up with Becky - she recently had to do a short spell in the Ukraine so I was keen to hear all about it - it's not exactly four star it seems, the hotel was pretty grim, the food unpalatable, the bread often stale and there were days when milk was just unavailable. She was however, very impressed with the people, as a new democracy they cherish their vote and all take an active interest in politics.
I watched the Beeb's 'Wounded' last week which looked at how our very injured and maimed soldiers are treated here in Birmingham's Selly Oak Hospital. Regardless of whether you agree with the action in Afghanistan or not, no-one watching it could fail to be deeply moved and there is no doubt that these guys are true heroes - it was humbling. Sadly, I do question whether or not we are a country worth their sacrifice. Maybe if more of us took the Ukraine view towards politics and how they affect all our lives we could make this a more worthy place.
I'm catching up with Chrissie this evening - we will have a bite to eat and cure all the evils in the world at the same time - we girls are pretty good at multi-tasking.
The implementation of this wonderful and altruistic concept has had some pretty interesting results!
A friend of mine retired this year after 30 years as a primary school teacher. Her last intake of 32 children included 27 with completely different languages most of whom had no English whatsoever, a significant number who were not toilet trained, and many who could not use a knife and fork let alone button up their own coats. Those kids, who come from what is mythically referred to as a cohesive community, have a hard job to catch up, that's if they ever do, and the teachers have no chance of teaching them to read and write within the existing curriculum when they are so busy acting as substitute parents.
Another friend, in his thirties, has recently made a complete career change and gone into education. At the weekend he was telling me that at his school they have needed to introduce teaching life skills to the 14 year old girls which begins with personal hygiene - because they have no idea about basic cleanliness.
The CBI are recommending that students should now see an increase in the fees that they have to pay from just over 3 grand to 5 grand per year.
I am probably a lone voice I know but I really do believe that as a nation we are sleepwalking into social and economic catastrophe. These kids are our future, they are tomorrows wealth creators, our carers, our pensions, our way to a better society yet we do not invest in them properly. What kind of society can we expect in a few years when these badly raised, poorly educated no hopers form the main body of the country?
Education is undoubtedly the way to a better future but it needs to be properly constructed and properly funded. Child Trust Funds are just a waste of money.
No child should be given entry into school until they meet a basic requirement of being able to speak English, can use a toilet and wash their hands, can eat with a knife and fork and can button up their own coat. Teachers can then get on with the job of teaching. It is an appalling indictment to us as a supposed civilsed and progressive nation that we have a generation of kids who are less equipped for life now than I was when I left school at 15 in the very early sixties after the most basic form of education.
Forget the lofty concept of having 50% of kids going into University, often on soft useless courses, forget child trust funds and do away with lumbering students with debt incurred to fund fees.
Let's invest in giving all our kids a good solid education that really equips them for the future and let's select a reduced number to go on to state funded Uni based on ability not wealth or positive discrimination.
Yes, it will cost money but it would be a far better investment than lining the pockets of more greedy bankers and politicians.
The future is pretty frightening but as I am likely to end up with dementia it's likely that I won't care.
I have loads of things to rant about but, you will be pleased to hear, I am just too busy to blog.
The Fixer - Episode 2 last night was excellent.
Facts:
Some City Bankers are sueing their German Investment Bank for not paying their obscene bonuses - you couldn't make it up.
My ham sandwich is smashing
Other newsy stuff in the last few days has been less entertaining. Two more feral children arrested for the torture and attempted killing of a couple of youngsters - having read the reports of what they did the victims will surely be mentally and emotionally scarred for life, the terror they must have felt is unimaginable.
Reports indicate that the offenders will be treated in much the same way that Jamie Bulger's killers were - lots of psychiatric help and understanding, good food, up to the minute clothing and games and new identities once they are freed.
It may surprise some to know that I am not one of the 'bring back the birch' brigade, I don't think that capital punishment for all murder is a good thing, stoning adulterers and chopping hands off thieves is not my bag. But I do think we have allowed the bleeding heart liberals to go too far in the other direction. Only last week a transexual won the 'right' to be moved to a woman's prison so that he can live as a woman before his final 'op' - he is in prison for raping a woman!
We perceive, incorrectly it seems, that the law is there to deliver justice. Imprisonment should serve several functions but the most important of these should be the protection of the public from any further acts followed by a suitable punishment for the crime. Instead the other matters seem to take precedence - rehabilitation is all very well but it should not be the prime purpose and as for human rights!!!!
The whole concept of human rights is a fantastic one but surely it is meant to be the right to live in freedom and equality, the right to food, water and shelter - when did it take on all these other meanings. Those guilty of acts against their fellow human beings forfeit their right to live amongst us and whilst their basic needs should be met I think it's high time that prison life got tougher.
An extra 2p tax - the third tax hike on fuel in 9 months. The Government say it is to fund expansion so there can't be any connection with the fact that....
.... the benefit bill for the country now exceeds the amount of income tax collected or that they poured more than we could afford in propping up those greedy bankers - yep that still smarts!
Then there is this bloody minded determination to force us to be 'energy efficient' by banning the manufacture and import of our good old fashioned light bulbs. Apparently the new bulbs are energy saving but some experts say they are not as environmentally friendly as we are being led to believe and are hard to dispose of.
How long before we have light bulb police I wonder?
As for the weather - our Aussie friends say that our summer is not much better this year than their winter - how depressing is that?
Despite all this we had a lovely weekend and indulged in steak and chips on Sunday instead of the obligatory roast - and somehow the world seemed a better place.
We had gone up to enjoy the wedding of Esther and Paul and it was a true 'no expense' spared affair at Nunsmere Hall near Nantwich - Esther looked stunning and we had an amazing time. I truly wish them a long and very happy life together.
Having been back home for just one full day (time enough to do the washing eh!) when we cherries were whisked off to North Yorks for the Clevercherry 10 year birthday bash at he Yorke Arms. This culminated in a very special 9 course meal prepared for us by Michelin starred chef Frances Atkins and it was a true taste experience - magical.
Before that however we worked up an appetite with a 5 mile hike. I love walking but a couple of factors mean that I struggle these days but these lovely folk I am privileged to work with were patient and supportive and this old lady finally made it.
So a big big thank you to my colleagues.
Living it up doesn't mean I haven't been keeping track of what's been going on in the world however and my opinion that this country has gone completely bonkers continues to be reaffirmed - where else in the world would a paedophile be released into the community only to be given viagra? And don't you just sense that Madleson and Blair have their dabs all over this Libyan affair? I smell skulduggery.
....for a few days as my daughter was on tele last Thursday - Sky, Ch4 and the Beeb, even did a stint on Simon Mayo's radio show. It was all down to the fact that Women's boxing will be part of the Olympics and, as she is National Development Manager, she was fielding questions.
It is such a controversial subject, so many people find the thought of ladies thumping each other quite abhorrent, but I think she aquitted herself well and I was extremely proud of her - she loved Mr.Mayo - said he was just smashing.
Talking of smashing - having some windows replaced a couple of months ago seems to have caused a structural problem and I now have a ruddy great crack down the back of the house. I spoke to the insurance company who immediately used the dreaded word 'subsidance'.
Now I am pretty sure that it's nothing of the kind - the assessor is coming tomorrow so I will know more then - but it's bad enough that some of my bits are going south without the house joining in!
We've just had a nice weekend visiting pals in The Cotswolds and we are off to a wedding this coming weekend 'up North' so I am looking forward to seeing the lovely Esther, who is one of my very favourite people, looking stunning and wedding her lovely bloke.
Brummies are kind, warm-hearted and generally industrious folk, we are not perceived as being amongst the brightest, often portrayed as being 'thick', but it's Brummies who supplied the world with some of the finest products of the Industrial Age. Here in the Jewellery Quarter men and women working in small, often cramped places played a huge part in making this the city of a thousand trades. Whenever the country has faced financial difficulties, it has been this city that has been at the heart of it's recovery.
Having enjoyed a glorious weekend I switched on the TV news to see disgraceful scenes of violence in my home town - the result of clashes between the extremist groups that now seem to dominate our society. Some misguided religious fanatic, who has probably never heard of Chamberlain or Priestley (it was Priestley who advocated equal rights for religious dissenters) and has probably played no part whatsoever in building this free and tolerant society spat out the words "THIS IS OUR CITY NOW".
I look out of my window at home and see the burqa and the niqab, symbols of repression which have no place on the streets of any free society, rapidly becoming commonplace. I recently walked along the street where I was born and spent my formative years and was viewed as an intruder and I wondered just when it was that the Brummagem I loved died.
At some time in the future I am likely to hand over the keys of my home to someone who has no idea of the history of this city, let alone of this country, who at best may have vaguely heard of Henry V and Agincourt, but will have no understanding of their significance. Will they know of Stamford Bridge or even the more recent battles of Ypres or Salerno, will the names of James Brindley or Burne-Jones mean anything? The new brummie may be someone who, by the good grace of the folk who welcomed them or their fathers, has maintained their own culture but is unwilling to live in harmony with the established traditions.
They will build a new Birmingham, their Birmingham, but it won't be mine anymore.
My heart is, truly, broken.
......Well the plaster started to come off so I will be getting in a professional but in the meatime I have emptied the room in question and most of the stuff is in our room so now I have to do a bit of climbing to get into bed.
I have also found a few things I fancy car-booting and on Friday had the lunatic notion to add to this by rooting around for stuff in the attic. So there I am, fairly dishevelled and dirty when the doorbell rings.....
......We have quite a few friends who have relocated to Australia and New Zealand over the years and for some reason - (could it be the cricket?) quite a number of them are over here just now and a couple had decided to pay us a surprise visit. It was such a treat to see folks I haven't seen for about five years and so I left the DIY, the attic and the carbooting and enjoyed some lovely company instead, Brian you may be five years older but clearly the change of lifestyle has worked wonders and you look five years younger.
I did return to the attic yesterday and have found some stuff I can get rid of, the attic is no less cluttered however, as I have stored some more stuff up there - you never know when you might need it.
My weekly supermarket shop is not the highlight of my week so I have had a couple of bashes at online shopping. On both occasions, some stuff was not delivered and most of the fresh foods were only a day or so short of the sell by date, so I have not done it again.
So back to plodding round Sainsbury's, where I have shopped for more years than I care to count, but I got a bit miffed recently when I bought what I thought was a meal deal...........Buy 2 x 400g curries and 2 x rice for 8 quid. Only it came to about 14. When queried I was told that it didn't apply to the curries I had purchased, despite the fact that they were in the meal deal curry section, were not specifically separated and were 400g. For that money I could get a freshly made take-away.
Now I am no genius but I am not entirely stupid, I can't believe I am the only one who fell foul of this misleading display, so I felt aggrieved at being treated as a dimwit by the customer 'services' lady. So mnuch so that I flounced out with a 'I will never shop here again' retort.
On Saturday I went to the local Tesco - it was dire! Lack of choice, poorly laid out and seemingly frequented by the rudest shoppers I have ever encountered. I ended up doing the fresh food shopping in Waitrose which was in a different class altogether but I couldn't shop there every week - it's too tempting and I would be bankrupt.
I also went to B&Q.
In all of these stores there is the slow creep of self-serve checkouts. Now I am no technophobe and am quite happy to see us all take advantage of the fantastic stuff that is now available but I want to be served by a real human being. I don't want to be channelled like some moron towards a machine that tells me to scan, pack and pay.
For now I will return to shopping In Sainsbury's but in case the customer 'services' lady sees me I will be scurrying round with a scarf and some dark glasses.
But if this steady march of the machines continues to force customers onto the conveyor belt, and reduce the numbers of available check out jobs, I will be looking for an alternative - my local shops do not cater for my needs and the local farm shop is not really local so if you have any ideas please let me know.
In the meantime don't use the self service - every time you do you are reducing someone's employment options and encouraging stores to drive old ladies insane.
The Chateau is a beautiful building in a stunning setting and in the 50's and early 60's was the kind of place that 'working class' people would have considered very very posh. My lunch companaion (61) and I (not telling!) were almost certainly the youngest customers and it's possible that some of the clientelle have been going there since the 50's.
There was a slightly Fawlty-esque air about the place and even though the service was fine, if somwhat dated and East European, I kept expecting Basil to appear at any time.
I ordered pate for starters (huge portion) and scampi for main. There was enough scampi for three but as it came without any accompaniment I had a side order of fries. Price-wise it was reasonable but Alex Polizzi would have a field day with portion control. One of the regulars took a doggy bag.
It may not have been the moon but crikey it felt like a parallel universe.
I must mention the latest series of Jimmy McGovern's 'The Street' which is superb. Last night Anna Freil played a desperate Mum who had resorted to the oldest profession in order to pay her mortgage - it was gripping and it's a real treat to see class drama on telly.
The kids have been over for a few days bringing home grown spuds with them which we have really enjoyed. They cooked up a lovely 3 course meal for us and cut the wretched conifer hedge for me so the visit was all the more appreciated.
I can recommend pistachio encrusted rack of lamb - yummy!
Away
As a result of the tragic loss of life of 8 of our finest in just one 24 hour period in Afghanistan there is huge debate now about whether or not we should even be there.
The problem is we have a government that has consistently lied to us - going into Iraq was justified with lie upon lie and most of us still have questions over the death of Dr.Kelly.
So it's difficult to accept that our presence in this inhospitable place is for the greater good but on balance I think it probably is.
Having accepted that there is a need then we should expect our troops to be properly equiped with whatever they need to do the job and to protect themselves, but yet again there is a lot of hot air emanting from Westminster which contradicts totally from the military on the ground.
Let's not waiver - Hitler would have won if we had pulled out because of the deaths of our soldiers way back in WW2, although looking around today I'll bet a good few old soldiers would question what it was they were fighting for.
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