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Brian Cant has died, along with another part of my childhood.
KnightOwl
19-06-2017, 17:38
Awwww! I loved Brian Cant when I was a kid. He was wonderful!
Elizabeth
19-06-2017, 18:54
Dare I ask who is Brian Cant?
Children's presenter when those of us in our 40s were mere bairns.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-40335213
Elizabeth
19-06-2017, 18:59
Thank you Hawkeye. I did recognise his face although I was a bit old for watching his programmes.
Hello all! It makes me happy to be back on the forum after a crazy 6 weeks. Running around getting sorted for Peru, then having the holiday of a lifetime. Seeing rare sights in the jungle, 2 jaguarundi was my highlight, Kev preferred the harpy eagle. Hiking the inca trial (ouch) just too much to mention. Also with swollen knees and blisters from the trail I successfully completed the race for life 10k on Sunday, hottest day we've had up here but I didn't pass out so I'm happy for that too. It was a struggle!
Sad that all of this meant no queens for me this year but have a great time to all those going and hope to see you at Wimbledon!
hfwardhouse
20-06-2017, 10:16
Welcome back Jerry - sounds an amazing experience!
Thanks it really was! Though the 10k in heat followed by heatstroke and sunburn not so much. It was worse than the nosebleeds at altitude lol. Though the was worth the pain for the experience and the race for life worth the pain as it's for charity and I raised £50 :) only a third of last year but every little helps :)
if anyone wants to donate I can pm you the link of this is ok with the mods. If this isn't ok mods, let me know and I'll delete this bit of the post :)
Anyway no more holidays for me this year lol :) worth it for the trip of a lifetime though.
JAMES4578
20-06-2017, 12:18
Sounds incredible Jerry,well done on the Race For Life!
Hi Jerry! Nice to see you back. Sounds like you had the time of your life!! Wonderful experience for you. Maybe it's just as well you are missing going to Queens!:sad: Not so good there today!! Anyway look forward to all your upcoming posts! Hope you are recovered now. Heatstroke horrible! Take care!
banskogirl
20-06-2017, 19:26
Children's presenter when those of us in our 40s were mere bairns.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-40335213
Eh 40's?
Thanks Hawkeye ;)
Hi Jerry! Nice to see you back. Sounds like you had the time of your life!! Wonderful experience for you. Maybe it's just as well you are missing going to Queens!:sad: Not so good there today!! Anyway look forward to all your upcoming posts! Hope you are recovered now. Heatstroke horrible! Take care!
I am recovered thank you :) despite the disappointing result today. Peru was a wonderful experience but I won't bore everyone here like I've already bored friends and family. Hoping to go back to Peru in 2019, still so much to see! Maybe I'll start a travel blog and bore people that way lol
I am recovered thank you :) despite the disappointing result today. Peru was a wonderful experience but I won't bore everyone here like I've already bored friends and family. Hoping to go back to Peru in 2019, still so much to see! Maybe I'll start a travel blog and bore people that way lol
I am sure it will be anything but boring! Would love to hear about your adventures!!
supergran
20-06-2017, 22:48
I am recovered thank you :) despite the disappointing result today. Peru was a wonderful experience but I won't bore everyone here like I've already bored friends and family. Hoping to go back to Peru in 2019, still so much to see! Maybe I'll start a travel blog and bore people that way lol
That's a good idea. Do it!!
RosieBear
29-06-2017, 18:39
'Armed police and security barriers to beat terror threat at Wimbledon tennis championships'
https://www.thetimes.co.uk/edition/news/armed-police-and-security-barriers-to-beat-terror-threat-at-wimbledon-tennis-championships-fzl3b950w
A sign of the times :sad: - but hopefully reassuring to those who are lucky enough to be attending.
traveller7
03-07-2017, 12:30
Happy that I am back in the world of technology and have a laptop again which means I can come on here more!
patmoren
09-07-2017, 10:52
After a fantastic day on Centre Court on Friday (caught the last direct train home), yesterday I watched my recently 12 year old grand daughter, do her first Triathlon 200m swim (she wished that was longer and the others shorter!) 3K cycle ride, 1800m run. She did brilliantly and even had a race over the last 100m. I thought it was a lot for someone that age but wasn't a problem at all.
Delighted you've been able to get to some live tennis, Pat. Well done to your granddaughter - sounds gruelling!!!
I was generally have a horrendous day. we thought stuff being good let's get wine and watch a film. Went to Morrisons and got asked for ID which Kev us both a much needed giggle. Though I might not have been as amused if I didn't have any with me ;p :)
RosieBear
16-07-2017, 12:38
I was generally have a horrendous day. we thought stuff being good let's get wine and watch a film. Went to Morrisons and got asked for ID which Kev us both a much needed giggle. Though I might not have been as amused if I didn't have any with me ;p :)
Hey Jerry, hope things are better now :flowers:
Just gone and spilt loads of vegetable juice all over my laptop. Keeping fingers crossed it will be OK. Advised to wait a day or two before switching on, but also advised it is likely to be a write off.
hfwardhouse
30-07-2017, 07:35
Oh no Cazza :eek:
Oh no Cazza :eek:
Surprisingly it is working now it is dried out :):) :dance: But my spare laptop refused to communicate with ethernet yesterday, so I was stuck without either for a while.
patmoren
30-07-2017, 20:50
Surprisingly it is working now it is dried out :):) :dance: But my spare laptop refused to communicate with ethernet yesterday, so I was stuck without either for a while.
That was lucky have you got anyone who can make sure it is OK inside just in case.
That was lucky have you got anyone who can make sure it is OK inside just in case.
I didn't take it to them to check - I just waited a couple of days for it to dry out. They said that with water it is often OK but with things like juice it can dry inside and it is difficult to remove, but it also depends on where it has got to inside. So it is not worth taking it anywhere. At least I have backed everything up now just in case!!
I had free afternoon this afternoon, so I have indulged myself in an afternoon of Andy and tennis - the 2016 Wimbledon final followed quickly by the 2016 WTF. It has made me feel soooo good - I would thoroughly recommend it!!:thumbup:
Woohoo! Just got the results of Jess - our six year old lab's - post chemo tests and she has been given the 'all clear'! We have to go back for further tests in six months time but for now we're celebrating big style!
Woohoo! Just got the results of Jess - our six year old lab's - post chemo tests and she has been given the 'all clear'! We have to go back for further tests in six months time but for now we're celebrating big style!
So happy for you Alis (and Jess). Such a relief and a burden lifted off your shoulders.
RosieBear
30-08-2017, 11:08
That's fantastic news Alis and Jess - all dog owners/lovers can relate to what you've been through and I'm incredibly happy for you both. Enjoy the celebrations!
Was about to message you asking about Jess so this is great news! So pleased for you. x
Good to hear that Laura MacIntyre, 15, one of the victims in the Manchester Arena, has now been able to return home to Barra.
Best wishes to Laura and hope she will continue to recover well.
Delighted about Jess. Glad the news is so good. A woof from Millie.
Woohoo! Just got the results of Jess - our six year old lab's - post chemo tests and she has been given the 'all clear'! We have to go back for further tests in six months time but for now we're celebrating big style!
This amazing news absolutely made my rubbish day. So happy for you all xx
To add to our celebrations, our son is bringing home his Kiwi girlfriend tomorrow. She's never been to Europe before. I'm so excited - I so hope she likes Scotland although, sadly, I don't think there's any hope of them settling here and NZ is a long, long, way away to visit!
Who wouldn't love Scotland? I've only been home for 3 days and I wish I was back there :)
Thanks, Jerry. I really hope so. They've 'done' Edinburgh, St Andrews, Dundee, Pitlochry, Inverness, Fort William, Oban and all parts in between on their way to us, so hopefully she will have a feel for the place!
Hopefully Dundee doesn't put her off!
C'mon Hawkeye - there's nowt wrong with Dundee!
angiebabez
01-09-2017, 12:55
Dundee is full o nutters. ;)
Dundee is full o nutters. ;)
Hence why I left...
Not quite full then ....
AllyB is full of something else entirely.
I'm very fond of Dundee and Dundonians!;)
AllyB is full of something else entirely.
Is it wit? Do I get a prize if I'm right?
I think if you changed the first letter for 2 you might be right!
Sad to say, I would probably never move back now. My mum and dad have moved out of the city now too due to the increasing number of lowlifes in the area they stayed in.
Well, we are evacuating from Jacksonville, Florida from Hurricane Irma. As you probably know we live in our motorhome traveling the USA ad so our house is on wheels and we can just take it with us. We are heading west to Pensacola and will watch where this thing goes. If we have to we can go further west or north. The roads and weather are good, we have avoided the traffic jams so far.
Unfortunately, we had to cancel our plans for Disneyworld on Tuesday. We were going to celebrate our grandsons 2nd birthday there but Mickey will have to wait.
Our son and his family and dogs are a day behind us but they are also on the road and heading to meet up with us.
Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone everywhere caught up in this.
We are fine and will be fine, just a slight diversion in life.
@Glenbrit - stay safe. Our thoughts are with all of the Americans and people in other places suffering because if extreme weather conditions.
Genbrit , how wonderful that you can take your home with you , thats awesome !!
Stay safe !!
Hope you manage to stay safe Genbrit. :grouphug:
JAMES4578
08-09-2017, 18:26
Hopefully you will be ok Genbrit, stay safe! :grouphug:Good you have the mobile home!
Hope you and your family keep safe, and that your son's house avoids any damage. It's certainly an advantage to live in a motor home. :grouphug:
Thoughts are with you Genbrit. Stay safe xx
hfwardhouse
12-09-2017, 08:57
Hope you made it safely out of the hurricane zone Genbrit.
Well I just want to say that I'm feeling very sad for 2 of our beloved forum members who are going through horrible times at the moment for very different reasons ....
Supergran and JerryD I am thinking of you both and sending lots of love :grouphug::grouphug:
Sorry this is going to be a long post, a lot has been happening!!!
Thanks to everyone for your good wishes. We did make it out safely, and are sitting in a campground in Pensacola, waiting for roads to clear, campgrounds to reopen and petrol(gas) to be readily available in the affected areas again.
I am upset that we didn't make Disneyworld (campground closed) for our grandsons 2nd birthday or our follow up campground (closed) in Orlando, but we're not prepared to go back to an area, before it has had a chance to recover and the people that live there are taken care of.
We will start to head back towards Jacksonville, which suffered flooding and power outages, as did much of Florida, on the 21st September. The campground there is still closed, we have a campground booked on the way, close to doctor appointments that we need to make.
The plan from there is to try and return to Jacksonville, on the 26th, to prepare for our trip to Spain & UK,hopefully on October 10th. But, who knows we may try and squeeze our trip to Disneyworld in there as well, otherwise we lose the money for our park tickets.
This country has suffered two disastrous hurricanes back to back in different areas, but what is amazing is the camaraderie it brings. Everyone working together and helping each other. It is one of the most scary things I've had to deal with. The unknown of exactly where it's going to hit, where is the best place to evacuate to. We chose well, although we weren't sure at the last moment if we would get the tail end of it. We ended up with very little wind and no rain. The motorhome didn't even rock!!! I spent days and days continuously monitoring the tracking maps to ensure we were going to be safe and it worked.
We are both emotionally drained and exhausted but safe. We have a lot to be thankful for, there are many others who are suffering far worse than us and our thoughts and prayers go out to them.
Not least of all our two forum members mentioned here.
Supergran, we have known each other virtually, and been virtual friends for a long, long while. You are an awesome woman and a wonderful wife. You know I'm always available if you need to talk in the middle of the night there. :hug:
Jerry D, I don't really know you, but what you are doing is amazing and I'm not sure how you have the strength to continue, but hope that you get the help you need to continue to work with Sam and get him the help he needs. Hope Kev is doing ok after the accident. :flowers:
Whew, after all that, I think we all need this. :wino: :cheers:
So glad to hear you are safe Genbrit
Some great news:- My lovely elder granddaughter (5'2" and size 6) has given birth to an 8lb4oz son this afternoon, and that a week early! No name yet but I'm so proud of her and can't believe that I'm a great nana (much too young of course)! ;)
Congratulations Rona, that's lovely news. You don't seem old enough to be a gran, never mind a great gran!
Aw Rona, I'm delighted for you. But a great-gran...awesome! You certainly don't look like you could possibly be a great-gran! :hug::flowers:
Lovely to have some happy news. Congratulations Rona!
Congrats Anor on becoming a Great Gran. That's extra special. :)
Thanks everyone! Can't wait to see Louie Gordon Alexander and his Mummy tomorrow.
Enjoy every minute, Anor!
goldfish
16-09-2017, 13:09
Excellent Rona - nothing better than (great) grandchildren.
BIG Congratulations anor , how special for you !! :flowers:
RosieBear
16-09-2017, 16:15
Huge congratulations, Rona - delighted for you. Absolutely love the choice of names - he shares Louie and Alexander with little Prince George, (although think he's Louis with an s) and I thought when he was born that they were lovely names. Enjoy your first visit tomorrow xx
hfwardhouse
16-09-2017, 16:50
Aw that's wonderful news Rona. Can't believe you've a granddaughter old enough to be making you a great Granny!! Congratulations xx
Our island is in mourning. This week we have said goodbye to a brave 16 year old who has lost her 13 year battle against cancer. A few years ago the island raised the money to send her to America for proton treatment, which seemed to have had an effect but, sadly, not a lasting one. Through it all, she was always positive. She was an ambassador for the children's hospital in Glasgow and raised a lot of money herself for children's cancer charities. Life just isn't fair is it?
So many sad happenings ...... a 16 year old who has obviously fought so hard for most of her life ...... life's a *****.
hfwardhouse
17-09-2017, 19:59
I saw that Alis, so unbelievably sad :crying:
Alis, so sad. Such a short life but sounds like a courageous one. It makes you wonder about life, it seems so unfair at times and yet makes you realize how lucky you are.
Seems to me after checking out the forum, and after what happened to us personally earlier this year,
we may be in need of a pick me up or two.
Just as a precursor to the get together at the weekend (really miffed we can't be there)
We hope this helps anyone who doesn't feel at their best.
1338
Happy to see that viagogo are no longer a partner of the world tour finals! http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/ticket-re-selling-firm-viagogos-11221894
lovetennis
24-09-2017, 21:03
Happy to see that viagogo are no longer a partner of the world tour finals! http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/ticket-re-selling-firm-viagogos-11221894
I am glad about it too. I really hated having to use viagogo last year to buy a final ticket for WTF. They are still selling Andy Live tickets now - I really want to go but will not buy from viagogo when it is charity event and I know Andy's charities would never see a penny of my money.
People will still sell their tickets through Viagogo, the "official" removal makes little real difference to the profiteers.
Feeling a bit sad today. My daughter was with me all week and she left again this morning. :sad:
jackie55
30-09-2017, 23:38
Feeling a bit sad today. My daughter was with me all week and she left again this morning. :sad:
Oh Pat, sending you lots of:hug::hug::flowers::flowers:
hfwardhouse
01-10-2017, 13:05
Aw Pat :grouphug:
Aw Pat, just read your post. Hope your feeling a little less sad now.:grouphug:
Feeling a bit sad today. My daughter was with me all week and she left again this morning. :sad:
Sorry to hear that pat. Hope you are feeling better now :)
Yes almost back to normal now thank you! :thumbup:
I know I seem really grown up and sensible (don't all object at once) ;p but the child in me absolutely loves halloween. The horror and gore and excuse to watch scary films and be a big kid. I do have strict rules on fancy dress though, superheroes and cartoons and Disney princess are not Halloween costumes. Yellowlivi has been warned before about that. Anyway I do up the house with all kinds of fun and scary decorations. Things that move and talk. Light up and scream. I carve pumpkins and get dressed up. I love it. Anyway aside from the happiness and excitement of knowing this fun is around the corner, my little nephew philip made me happy today. I showed him my new addition (I buy a couple of Halloween things each year, my collection is in its 11th year), his face absolutely lit up. He said oh auntie Jerry your house is always the best on Halloween though. It's the bossest house. I can't wait to show my mates. :) :) bless him. The new additions are a scary walking doll armed with a knife, I also got a misting cauldron. Along with some little bits. His school is across the road from mine so last year he had a parade of kids come to see it from after school just for a look around. I guess more of the same this year.
My niece has flown to Ireland today to represent England in the WMO world championships. They have some more training over there before the competition starts. It is her first ever worlds competition, so she's nervous but I hope she can still do her best and more importantly enjoy herself.
Fantastic JerryD!
My elder son got engaged to his lovely girlfriend yesterday :love:
Good luck to your niece JerryD.:)
Congrats to your son Pat :)
Thanks guys. They all arrived safe and sound. I will let you know how she gets on.
Huge congrats to your son pat :)
Best wishes to your niece, JerryD and congratulations to your son, Pat.
hfwardhouse
10-10-2017, 09:26
Aw congrats to your son Pat :love:
Good luck to your niece Jerry :cheer:
RosieBear
10-10-2017, 12:03
Fingers x'd for Jerry's niece :peace: and congrats to your son and his fiancee, Mrs P :thumbup:
Looking forward to hearing how your niece gets on Jerry. What part of Ireland is she in?
Congrats to the newly engaged couple Pabbers. Every happiness to them.
Good luck to your niece, Jerry!
Ooh, another upcoming wedding in your family, Pat! Congrats to them.
They are in Dublin pat. Loving it too. Though not loving the exchange rate lol
Becky made her weight and her first fight is today. But nervous for her. Go becky!
RosieBear
11-10-2017, 12:49
GOOOOOOOO Becky!!!! :swingin::swingin::swingin:
She won her fights! Secured a place in the final !!! Just found out yey :)
RosieBear
11-10-2017, 13:00
She won her fights! Secured a place in the final !!! Just found out yey :)
That's fantastic, well done her. :clap:
She won 2 fights and lost one in the continuos catagory. So qualifies for the continuous final. The girl she lost to was a black belt and Becky's only a white belt so she did well. Even though the perfectionist in her is gutted. Tomorrow she has her points catagory fights, so we will see if she can make the final in those too :)
Well done Becky! Delighted for her.
hfwardhouse
11-10-2017, 21:23
Brilliant Becky!
goldfish
11-10-2017, 22:37
Great news Becky
Elizabeth
13-10-2017, 15:27
My husband fell off a ladder in the church hall yesterday and dislocated his shoulder and got a nasty gash on his forehead. He was back at hospital today and shoulder appears to be back in place okay but he has torn some nerves and can’t lift his arm up. He is to rest his arm, not drive and go back to hospital in two weeks’ time. He is not a happy chappie as he always has to be doing something and can’t sit still for five minutes. He has been told he can do anything involving legs but not his arm so I think we will be doing a lot of walking.
Oh no Elizabeth that's awful :( I hope he is on the mend soon.
Becky won her fights in points yesterday and has just won the final for the catorgory, taking the GOLD. Next up is the continuos final where she faces a massive Australian! Go becky!! So we are looking at a minimum of a gold and a silver :) I'll let you know how it goes.
Also my nephew philip is 9 today, he was happy with his pressies and even happier than we are taking to pleasure beach tomorrow as part of his present! A day of fair rides :)
Congrats to your niece JerryD :)
Becky took silver in the continuos against the 10ft Australian. It was always going to be a tall (lol) ask. She swears she is uninjured other than rebreaking her big toe. That's happens so many time it's a wonder it still fixes itself. They have a party on Saturday night and she will fly home on Monday. We've missed her. It's only been a week but she's generally around our house so much you'd be forgiven for think she lives here!
So it's silver and gold in her first world championships 10 months after taking up kickboxing. Hard work and dedication. Well done to boppet :)
A fantastic achievement, Jerry - you just be so proud of her!
Congrats to your niece Jerry, how awesome is that!!!!
Sorry to hear about your husband Elizabeth, I hope he's feeling a bit better.
goldfish
14-10-2017, 17:58
Fantastic effort Becky
Becky took silver in the continuos against the 10ft Australian. It was always going to be a tall (lol) ask. She swears she is uninjured other than rebreaking her big toe. That's happens so many time it's a wonder it still fixes itself. They have a party on Saturday night and she will fly home on Monday. We've missed her. It's only been a week but she's generally around our house so much you'd be forgiven for think she lives here!
So it's silver and gold in her first world championships 10 months after taking up kickboxing. Hard work and dedication. Well done to boppet :)
That is a remarkable achievement!! Congrats to Becky. You must all be so proud of her. But her toe...ouch!!!
It's amazing. I wonder if we'll have to call her world champion from now :)
Had a great day today with my sister, nephew philip, niece jade and KevD today, we went to the pleasure beach to celebrate Philip's birthday. It was great fun and everyone had a great time lol :) :)
hfwardhouse
15-10-2017, 12:33
Happy because we've managed to get the harvest finished (well the combine is finished) in time to let us get a week's hols from Saturday - didn't get away in the summer holidays because my mum in law was very poorly - bless her she managed to hold on right to the last afternoon of the holidays before she passed away ... so I was determined that we needed to get away for a battery recharge - we're both exhausted and actually if this week's anything to go by, we've not really had a chance to grieve properly either (we had a funeral of a neighbour on thursday which hit harder than either of us expected ...) anyway .... a cottage in Keswick has been booked and a week of r&r in one of our favourite places, with lots of lovely pubs a wee wander away, that'll do me nicely thank you very much! Just got to get loads done over the next few days ...
Happy because we've managed to get the harvest finished (well the combine is finished) in time to let us get a week's hols from Saturday - didn't get away in the summer holidays because my mum in law was very poorly - bless her she managed to hold on right to the last afternoon of the holidays before she passed away ... so I was determined that we needed to get away for a battery recharge - we're both exhausted and actually if this week's anything to go by, we've not really had a chance to grieve properly either (we had a funeral of a neighbour on thursday which hit harder than either of us expected ...) anyway .... a cottage in Keswick has been booked and a week of r&r in one of our favourite places, with lots of lovely pubs a wee wander away, that'll do me nicely thank you very much! Just got to get loads done over the next few days ...
Must be drier with you than it's been here lol. Although managing doesn't always mean ideal conditions. Don't think any of the country has had a great autumn by the sound of things.
Enjoy your break!
hfwardhouse
15-10-2017, 14:32
Must be drier with you than it's been here lol. Although managing doesn't always mean ideal conditions. Don't think any of the country has had a great autumn by the sound of things.
Enjoy your break!
It's been horrendous. Lovely today. Baling but as some has been lying a while it'll probably have to be wrapped... The joys. Our barley is so far gone it's coming in at 16% so that's one good thing :thumbup:
We're in the process of battening down the hatches in the expectation of the tail end of Hurricane Ophelia hitting us sometime tomorrow afternoon. I've just finished putting away the garden furniture and anything else remotely movable from the garden.
hfwardhouse
15-10-2017, 18:50
Been very windy here today!
I'm not really looking forward to the impending storm tomorrow. I am hoping that as I am in the far north of Ireland, we will not experience the worst of it. Every time it blows hard I have either trees or fences down!
It's amazing. I wonder if we'll have to call her world champion from now :)
Had a great day today with my sister, nephew philip, niece jade and KevD today, we went to the pleasure beach to celebrate Philip's birthday. It was great fun and everyone had a great time lol :) :)
It's so lovely to read a positive happy post from you Jerry. Glad you've had some relaxation and fun. x
Thanks pat, I hope the storm isn't bad for you. Take care. Becky is flying home from Dublin tomorrow so hopefully it won't be too bad there either.
Glad you can have a rest now Jane, it doesn't sound much needed and deserved :) have a fantastic time :)
I really hope Becky gets away before the worst of the storm hits. It's due here after lunch. Probably a few hours earlier in Dublin. Safe journey to Becky.
I really hope Becky gets away before the worst of the storm hits. It's due here after lunch. Probably a few hours earlier in Dublin. Safe journey to Becky.
Thanks pat, they did, a few others on the team had later flights and so had theirs cancelled. Becky was only delayed about an hour. They landed fine in Manchester about 20 minutes ago. The wind is starting to pick up here too
Whoops I missed one of her golds. So it's two gold medals and one silver for becky, the double world champion at 14 years old! 1344
Amazing, Becky! :clap: :clap: :clap:
Brilliant Becky! I'm relieved she is safely home and beat the storm to it!
I was successful in te foo fighters presale on Tuesday and then successful in the sale for the killers today. I missed out on the original dates but they added a new one in Liverpool today and I got that :) very chuffed :)
Not sure who either of these are, but pleased you have got tickets. Enjoy. You deserve it.
Foos or one of my all time favourite bands and great live. I've only seen the killers once Kev was a bigger fan of them :)
supergran
24-10-2017, 12:34
Thought I'd try to come back and be in contact again. Once the funeral was over I experienced grief so overwhelming and so physical and emotional it really took me by surprise.I'd never imagined it would be so heart breaking. It hit me like a ton of bricks.....No Alan. I would never see him again. My days didn't have a purpose, I had no interest in anything, tennis, the news, getting dressed, eating regularly. The only times I roused myself were when I had lunch out twice and friends visit every Tuesday evening and MurrayAOne came last Saturday. I have to force myself to agree to see people, to go to the hairdressers, to do shopping, to prepare a meal. Was even thinking about selling my ticket for Andy Live as really couldn't see myself enjoying it. My son still comes and stays over once a week and he a d his wife with visit at weekends. Friends and family phone and send messages but when alone I am bereft. I have researched grief and know I am doing the right thing by crying but it is so hard. I realise it takes time but that doesn't help when all I want is Alan.
Thought I'd try to come back and be in contact again. Once the funeral was over I experienced grief so overwhelming and so physical and emotional it really took me by surprise.I'd never imagined it would be so heart breaking. It hit me like a ton of bricks.....No Alan. I would never see him again. My days didn't have a purpose, I had no interest in anything, tennis, the news, getting dressed, eating regularly. The only times I roused myself were when I had lunch out twice and friends visit every Tuesday evening and MurrayAOne came last Saturday. I have to force myself to agree to see people, to go to the hairdressers, to do shopping, to prepare a meal. Was even thinking about selling my ticket for Andy Live as really couldn't see myself enjoying it. My son still comes and stays over once a week and he a d his wife with visit at weekends. Friends and family phone and send messages but when alone I am bereft. I have researched grief and know I am doing the right thing by crying but it is so hard. I realise it takes time but that doesn't help when all I want is Alan.
Oh Mo :grouphug::grouphug: My heart breaks for you .... I am not surprised at all by what you have said. What you are experiencing is completely to be expected and I think it's always worse once the funeral is behind you because there is less going on, and it feels more final. When you love someone who you have spent your life with, losing them is like losing half of you. I think it's good to try to see people and get out but of course there are days when you just won't feel able to do that, and in the early days, that's ok too. I know that alone time is the hardest but it is also needed because it's time when you don't have to put on a front and you can just howl the house down if you need to.
Friends and family will want to do all that they can to support you but often people feel awkward and afraid of upsetting you ... they try to avoid the subject of (in your case) Alan for fear of upsetting you, but in my experience it is more upsetting for people NOT to talk about him. Let people know if you want to talk about Alan, remember good times, look at photos and yes it will make you cry but that's ok too. Your forum friends are here for you for whatever little we can do and you know you can contact me if you want to talk xxx
themass15
24-10-2017, 13:59
What a lovely post Caro and so well said.
:grouphug: :grouphug: Supergran
Aww Mo, it's totally understandable that you feel that way. :hug: Are you still going to church? That can be a real comfort.
Glad you made the effort to post here Maureen. It must have been hard for you, but the fact that you did it shows signs you are doing all the right things. It's so good to have you back...I had been wondering about you. It's a desolate time for you and there are no words. Just sending you love and thoughts aplenty. xx
hfwardhouse
24-10-2017, 21:14
Oh Mo, it's so hard. You will get there but you need to grieve, and if folk want to come let them. It will become less painful, but you will always feel the loss keenly. We're all here for you xx
WimbledonWestie
24-10-2017, 22:14
Totally agree with what everyone has said. Hope u go to Andy live- since I can't be there I want to see all my DC buddies having a blast on tv. Thinking of u, remember we are all here for you. :grouphug:
jeannie13
24-10-2017, 22:16
Maureen -we all feel for you. It must be very hard for you at the moment. Please keep writing your thoughts & feelings---We are here to listen. :grouphug::flowers:
supergran
24-10-2017, 23:37
Thanks everyone for your lovely posts. Friends were here tonight and we had a good time but they've gone now. Just spoke to my oldest friend telling her how I feel. She was widowed over ten years ago and she told me that I obviously loved Alan more than she loved her husband. Not sure that makes me feel any better. She suggested I go to the doctor but not sure about that as what I'm going through is normal isn't it? I've really nobody to compare with, just know that I'm so sad and miss Alan so much it hurts.
Thanks everyone for your lovely posts. Friends were here tonight and we had a good time but they've gone now. Just spoke to my oldest friend telling her how I feel. She was widowed over ten years ago and she told me that I obviously loved Alan more than she loved her husband. Not sure that makes me feel any better. She suggested I go to the doctor but not sure about that as what I'm going through is normal isn't it? I've really nobody to compare with, just know that I'm so sad and miss Alan so much it hurts.
I am sorry you are going through this. It just shows what a special man Alan was that you are missing him so much.
Can I suggest you think about the doctor. If you had a broken arm or leg you would think nothing of getting something to dull the pain, whilst the initial healing occurs. Why should a broken heart be any different? You are grappling with a very different world. Why not grab a little help?
Thanks everyone for your lovely posts. Friends were here tonight and we had a good time but they've gone now. Just spoke to my oldest friend telling her how I feel. She was widowed over ten years ago and she told me that I obviously loved Alan more than she loved her husband. Not sure that makes me feel any better. She suggested I go to the doctor but not sure about that as what I'm going through is normal isn't it? I've really nobody to compare with, just know that I'm so sad and miss Alan so much it hurts.
Yes it is normal, of course it is, but that doesn't make it any less painful.
Some people find talking therapy (bereavement counselling) very helpful and others need a little bit of temporary help in the form of medication to begin with but it can be difficult to know when is the right time to stop ... and it's not right for everyone. It sounds like you have a good relationship with your doctor though so talking to him in general about things would be good. You may find a book on bereavement helpful in identifying the stages of grief and as reassurance that what you are going through is normal. My sister also found an online support group for wives which she found helpful in the early days but quickly outgrew it ... sometimes other people's grief on top of your own is not what you need but for some it is comforting being able to talk to people who have been through the experience of losing a much loved husband. Little steps ... :grouphug:
WimbledonWestie
25-10-2017, 17:07
Also remember you were under a great deal of stress and strain beforehand as a carer, a lot of what you are feeling will be the pent up stress of that on top of grief, making everything feel so much worse. I'd say chat with your doctor to see what they recommend and help you cdecude how to move forward without feeling pressured into either feeling you must soldier on or accept some form of treatment. They should be able to help you decide what is best fir you.
banskogirl
25-10-2017, 20:04
Aw Maureen :grouphug: so hard to hear what you are going through. Who really knows what is best for each of us, we all react in different ways. As others have said, it really shows how close you were and how much you loved him.
Also being a carer takes up much more of your life than I think we realise when we're in the middle of it. Often when my brother is in respite I find myself forgetting constantly and heading to his room to see what he's up to or I panic when I think I've missed his supper.
Thoughts with you and lots of hugs x and lovely that you have been so honest.
Yes, after being a carer there must seem to be a void. I'm sorry I'm not more eloquent, Mo, but I do feel for you and continue to hold you in my prayers. :hug:
Mo, it is normal to feel how you do. You have been together a long while and now Alan is not physically there with you.
He will always be watching over you and you can still talk to him as if he's there. Who cares if anyone thinks you're crazy!!! No one will know anyway.
I don't think it would hurt to talk to your doctor if you have a good relationship with him.
A good friend of mine, who lost her husband last year, goes to a support group where everyone has lost someone close to them, and it seems to help her to talk to others in the same situation.
As others have said everyone is different in dealing with grief, you will find what works in time.
You have already made the first step by talking and opening up about your feelings. That in itself is a courageous first step.
Love and hugs to you xx:grouphug:
Our neighbours' son died yesterday from cancer at the age of 41. One of our son's best friends from primary school died last week at 35. Two young men with most of their lives still ahead of them - life's just not fair, is it?
That is terribly sad :sad:
Josephine
27-10-2017, 10:24
Sad to say, I would probably never move back now. My mum and dad have moved out of the city now too due to the increasing number of lowlifes in the area they stayed in.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-tayside-central-41761399
Is it April 1st?
I'm not suggesting that it's cause and effect, because they were very welcome, but the massive central and riverside regeneration projects, have meant that other parts of the city have suffered.
Dundee has so much going for it apart from the new V&A Museum. It is a great cultural centre with the Dundee Rep Ensemble leading the way in rep theatre in the country, having won numerous awards over the last decade. It is the base for the Scottish Dance Theatre and has a vibrant contemporary arts scene. Dundee is also leading the way in scientific research - the College of Life Sciences at Dundee University is one of the largest and most productive research institutes in Europe and the Centre for Gene Regulation and Expression has attracted researchers from 60 different countries. Added to that, Strathtay University is the leading institution in the country for the development of gaming technology and all this is set on the most beautiful Tay estuary with the Sidlaw hills as a backdrop. I can absolutely see why Dundee has been named as a hotspot. Of course, there are parts of the city that could benefit from regeneration but that's true of any city - we spent 15 years living in the city and loved it. Sadly, it's often Dundonians themselves that run the city down.
RosieBear
27-10-2017, 17:43
Happy to have been sent a welcome gift from British Tennis. Would be even happier if I actually knew what is was. I'd be much obliged if someone could tell me what that little round thing is. Ta.
Call yourself a tennis fan? It's a racket dampener.
RosieBear
27-10-2017, 17:57
Ahhhh, thanks Hawky. I also got a clear plastic band thing, which the round thing fits on, so thought it might have been a bracelet :facepalm:......now, anyone know what that clear plastic thing is?
Ahhhh, thanks Hawky. I also got a clear plastic band thing, which the round thing fits on, so thought it might have been a bracelet :facepalm:......now, anyone know what that clear plastic thing is?
So glad I wasn't the only one confused!!!
WimbledonWestie
27-10-2017, 18:20
Glad I'm not the only one who was baffled by the gifts!
For the Dundee bashers out there, a snippet from today's Scotsman:
'The University of Dundee is the world's most influential pharmaceuticals research institution, according to a major global survey that places it ahead of the likes of Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of California Berkeley. This year's The State of Innovation report by Clarivate Analytics ranks Dundee as the most influential scientific research institution in pharmaceuticals for the period 2006-16. Research at Dundee's School of Life Sciences and School of Medicine is having a significant impact on research into therapeutic areas including cancer, arthritis, diabetes, lupus, hypertension and Parkinson's disease.'
supergran
29-10-2017, 11:00
Re the gift......I opened it, studied it then closed the box saying to myself "I must ask what this is when I get to Glasgow. Glad not the only one!!
WimbledonWestie
29-10-2017, 11:44
Well I look forward to you all figuring out what the clear plastic thing is for . However..... will all suggestions be allowed on a public forum.? :laugh::laugh::laugh:
I can only say, I am with the majority here. I put it back in the box and decided it was a problem for another day.
The clear band is for attaching your membership card to your bag or belt or whatever. The round thing is a dampener for your racquet.
Ah - who's the clever clogs then?
Had an absolutely wonderful weekend. Rushing around like a nutter on Friday bringing halloweeen to my house and gardens. Pickling hands, putting eyeballs in jars, limbs in pans. The works. The house looked amazing once I had finished. I am so much of a child I love Halloween more than Christmas. Not just the silly excuses for crazy decorations and zombie punch but the light and the leaves of the season. Saturday didn't disappoint, despite having a large amount of no shows this year and a storm that made life hard for outside decorations, the Halloween party was fantastic fun. Childish games and catching up with friends, along with screams of guests who were startled by animated figures and decorations on their way to the loo, past a misting cauldron and life size skeleton. My zombie make up took an age to do but as my skin peeled off through the night it certainly only ended up more convincing. The party was missing my favourite guest but hopefully Livi can beat kevD at table football during the Christmas party :) it was a great night, even caught up with an old friend. Then Sunday we just lazed around before taking my niece becky, nephew philip and their dad , along with kevvD to the cinema. It was Philips first ever imax 3D and first ever trip to the huge odeon in Liverpool. In June we took him to his first ever cinema trip to see guardians of the galaxy but it was only a little local cinema. And only in 2d. You can imagine his joy and amazement when he walked in and saw the imax screen. He's been counting down the days for ages. We saw Thor ragnarock. It was a great feel good funny film, very different to the ones that came before. We all loved it and Philip's amazement was a joy to watch. We had all the sweets and popcorn and junk any kid could want. Then treated everyone to drive through, taking meals home for my niece jade and my sister. Philip raved about the day the whole way home.
It is great to be in a position where we can treat them to a day like that. Michelle was happy not to cook and jade who is far too cool to come to the cinema with us was happy for her share of junk food. It really was just a wonderful weekend. A very happy one. Plus there is so much to look forward to going forward, Philip's parade of friends tomorrow while he shows off our Halloween house. Along with the excitement of all the local kids who come knocking on Tuesday. A family bonfire night with fireworks in the garden on Saturday, the killers next week and then the world tour finals. Having the energy to go to the gym and moving on sorting the house. I feel like the new year and fresh start has already begun today. Very pagan. Lol. Excuse the Disney like optimism, it is sickening. But very welcome I my own head at least.
So glad you had such a good weekend Jerry. You deserve every second of your disney like optimism ... from this optimist, never ever apologise for it! And from the facebook photos I can confirm the house and your get up for the party was 100% halloween! Arrrgh!!
And how lovely to be able to enjoy real quality time with your other nieces and nephews. So happy for you that life has turned a corner.
Really glad to hear you're having such a great time, Jerry! :)
Enjoyed reading your happy post Jerry. It's no more than you deserve. Your Halloween house sounds amazing. I would love to see some pictures...I don't do Facebook! Have a fab Halloween tomorrow.
Enjoyed reading your happy post Jerry. It's no more than you deserve. Your Halloween house sounds amazing. I would love to see some pictures...I don't do Facebook! Have a fab Halloween tomorrow.
Thanks pat :) I will send you some via email. I will do thanks x
Happy Halloween folks 1347
And to you! I don't get home till gone 6 so I've missed the youngest children but I put my pumpkin out straight away and have had about a dozen kids call already :)
Happy Halloween folks 1347
Scary stuff!!
lovetennis
03-11-2017, 13:23
Just found out my elder daughter has got a distinction in her Masters degree. Fingers crossed now for the job application she has just sent in
hfwardhouse
03-11-2017, 13:25
Brilliant - well done that girl and good luck with the job!
goldfish
04-11-2017, 01:08
Caroline Wozniacki is engaged! So happy for her to have found a new partner.
JAMES4578
04-11-2017, 02:54
Great for your daugther Kath, glad you had good time Jerry! Hope things a bit better Supergran but obviously tough time, Not been on here so much lately!
Well done your elder daughter Kath. Fantastic achievement.:clap::clap:
Congrats to your daughter Kath, that is amazing :)
Congratulations to your daughter - that is no mean feat!
Caroline Wozniacki is engaged! So happy for her to have found a new partner.
Really pleased for Caroline. She won the year end final and got engaged all in the same week - good for her!
patmoren
06-11-2017, 19:46
Just watched the video of Andys' O2 win last year. Just as good the second time round!!!!
My star niece was in the local echo yesterday with the other medalists from her club 1349
At the back second on the left
supergran
15-11-2017, 16:02
A quick update: It's Wednesday and the last time I sobbed and wailed uncontrollably was last Friday. Obviously still have very sad times when I weep for my loss but coping. Was helped by being with friends on Saturday, family on Sunday and friends last night. The arrival of Cardboard Andy cheered me up. Now in lounge with Alan's casket. Tim and Sarah coming on Sunday and just keeping busy as well as watching tennis. First interest I have shown since Alan died.
supergran
16-11-2017, 08:39
I spoke too soon. Very bad evening last night. I shall stay off this thread for a while.
I spoke too soon. Very bad evening last night. I shall stay off this thread for a while.
I think you have to accept that you are going to feel like excrement for the immediate future. It will get better, but it’s going to be up and down for many, many months to come. What would it say about your relationship with Alan if after a few weeks you were bouncing up and down happy as my dog when she finds Fox poo? I think C S Lewis said the pain now is the price you pay for the years of joy. Cowards like me will never grieve, but we will never know the joy either.
To lower the tone completely - why is it that dogs are so partial to the droppings of other species? My dogs go nuts for cow poo, rabbit poo, goat poo and there's absolutely nothing better than fresh horse poo - the wetter the better!
Mine as well, although I do think fox is her favourite. Could be they are just revolting? Although if you are referring to eating the stuff, she does that as well given half a chance.
They definitely love eating the stuff whenever they get the chance, preferably with a dessert course of seaweed. To watch them you'd think they were never fed - revolting creatures!
sir coolerking
17-11-2017, 10:24
What I want to know is how they decide what is edible and what is a perfume to be smothered all over their body?
Jana Navotna has passed away age 49. I am saddened and shocked. It's on the BBC sports app.
Jana Navotna has passed away age 49. I am saddened and shocked. It's on the BBC sports app.
Yes Pat - what a shock. She was so lovely to watch and I loved her commentary too.
themass15
20-11-2017, 09:08
Just heard this news. So sad. I remember seeing her at Wimbledon in the semi finals in 1998
jackie55
20-11-2017, 09:10
Jana Navotna has passed away age 49. I am saddened and shocked. It's on the BBC sports app.
Yes, l have just heard, she seemed a lovely lady, so young, sad news
RosieBear
20-11-2017, 09:33
Unbelievably sad and shocking. I didn't even know she was ill. She was an amazing player who I'll never forget watching, especially that Wimbledon final, and a warm, likeable personality. Too sad :sad::sad::sad:
hfwardhouse
20-11-2017, 09:41
I just heard as well, I'm so sad - she was a lovely player to watch and so gracious. Another one taken far too young :crying:
Sallydaisy
20-11-2017, 09:45
Link to BBC news item:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/42049507
exislander
20-11-2017, 10:25
Very sad news. Apart from Wimbledon - that loss to Graf and finally winning at the third attempt - I remember her as a brilliant doubles player.
JAMES4578
20-11-2017, 14:14
Shocking and so sad,R.I.P. Jana. Certainly was a fan and enjoyed her style of play, maybe didn't have the confidence of some and that Graf defeat must've been so gutting but people did warm to her. Whilst didn't get same attention she was supreme in doubles. I was delighted when she finally won the singles title at Wimbledon, hadn't heard she was ill either but thought she hadn't been at Wimbledon this year (used to play the invitational event). Apparently few knew her health had deteriorated.
RoastLamb
20-11-2017, 14:18
Link to BBC news item:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/tennis/42049507
That is a really lovely tribute to her. :thanks: I still can't believe it tbh. :crying:
supergran
20-11-2017, 16:00
Very sad news, so young. Loved watching her in singles and doubles.
Sallydaisy
21-11-2017, 18:56
RIP Rodney Bewes - a very Likely Lad.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-42067506
exislander
22-11-2017, 00:30
That is sad - Bob and Terry were such great characters and so well acted by Rodney and James (Bolam)
And now David Cassidy has died, aged 67 :sad:
hfwardhouse
22-11-2017, 09:39
What a horrible week :sad:
Josephine
22-11-2017, 13:03
At least mass murderer Mladic has been jailed for life.
Rosalind
22-11-2017, 14:12
And now David Cassidy has died, aged 67 :sad:
A superstar for some of us who know all the words to every hit. For everyone else, (it seems) it's difficult to name a tune.
I still remember all the words... I think I brain-washed myself. sad news. I feel he could deal with neither living with it or living without it.
supergran
22-11-2017, 15:02
So happy and relieved today. My daughter has finished her cancer treatment. Gruelling radiation and chemotherapy. She burst into tears as she rang the bell. From being diagnosed on the 12th September, finishing yesterday she has remained positive even though in a lot of pain and discomfort with radiation burns. Also grieving for her beloved dad has been hard but now,hopefully she can look to a better 2018.
Well done to your daughter, SG, for remaining positive through all the stress she has experienced lately - it can't have been easy for you either. I really hope things are better for her, you and all your family in the coming year.
Goodness me Maureen, you and your family have certainly been through the wringer this year. So pleased this is some good news for you both.
Times like this I really miss -J-
Yes, has anyone heard from him?
supergran
23-11-2017, 13:36
J/Jaydu still posts photographs on Facebook.
Well I'm still ill and don't so have much of a voice so I couldn't do much shouting for them, but my niece and nephew had a kickboxing comp today, and I went to support them. I've got used to becky doing it now so I can watch, she's got her gold medals and it's getting rare for someone to get near enough to do her any damage. But philip, he is 9 and this is his first ever comp. so I was nervous for him. He looked so anvious and stressed. I couldn't bare it. He fought hard and he lost in 3 close fights. He really struggled after the first loss, fighting not to cry. It was horrible. He wouldn't be told that he had done well. Then in the next he was too angry and frustrated so wasn't accurate. But he still did well. He was crushed but eventually could see we didn't care about the result and how pleased he should be.
I wasn't worried for becky until the weigh in. It turned out she couldn't fight in the under 16s (she's 14), they offered to move her up to 16-18 but no one else was entered in that age. So she had to fight on the adult comp. Then I was nervous. She wasn't fazed, she had 3 fights and won each one. Winning the trophy for the over 18 70 weight. She is only 63 weight. Philip was happy for her and moved on from not getting a medal himself. I wish at 9 years old he could like football more, he's so little, but this is his love. He wants to be just like becky. They are both shattered now and philip is just interested in training harder to be ready for his second comp in March
Well we're off to the enthronement of the Archbishop of Wales today. The kids wanted to know how on earth we'd been invited (we're not even regular church goers). We reminded them that Dad went to uni with him and he was best man at our wedding 37 years ago ;)
RosieBear
02-12-2017, 09:56
Yes, have a lovely time Mrs P xx
Sallydaisy
02-12-2017, 11:10
Well we're off to the enthronement of the Archbishop of Wales today. The kids wanted to know how on earth we'd been invited (we're not even regular church goers). We reminded them that Dad went to uni with him and he was best man at our wedding 37 years ago ;)
Hope you have a 'lovely time' ...
;)
It was great fun thanks and the Archbish, or his Grace, hasn't changed a bit! Talked about if Jesus was around now, people would be wanting selfies with him :lol:. So we nabbed him after and said in the absence of Jesus could we have a selfie with the next best thing!
My dad was horrified when John became a vicar.........."but he drinks, he smokes, he swears".....yes.....goodness knows what he'd think now! Remember going to visit him for a Xmas do in one of his Welsh parishes and one of the parishioners sucked in their breath and said "oooo he does a lovely funeral" :laugh:
Robin and I both had appointments at the hospital in Glasgow yesterday. I couldn't believe it - appointments on the same day with an hour and a half between and at times that suited both the outgoing and homecoming flight - couldn't be better. How wrong was I? Well, not entirely, our consultations were both positive but the rest of the day was like a sitcom!
My day started at 5.30 - the alarm went off - I got up and went through the shower, So far so good - I went to the kitchen and made Robin a cup of tea. 'Why are you getting up in the dark?' says he, 'You can't take the dogs out in the dark.' ' I'm up because we are going to Glasgow,' says I. 'I'm not going to Glasgow,' says he. 'Yes, you are,' says I, 'get up and go through the shower.' So I go through to the kitchen and lay the table for breakfast - 15 mins later I go back to the bedroom and Robin is still in bed refusing to move! Anyway with a lot of bullying and much bribery and corruption, I finally get him up and into the bathroom. Three quarters of an hour later, Robin comes through showered, shaved and fully dressed - result! So we sit and have breakfast. By now it's nearly 8 o'clock and beginning to get light so I take the dogs down the beach. I come back, dry the dogs off and feed them - Robin is nowhere to be seen. I go through to the bedroom thinking that perhaps he has gone to clean his teeth and lo and behold - he is lying, fully clothed, on the bed! 'Come on,' says I, ' we are leaving for the airport in 5 minutes!' 'Why, where are we going?' says he. Anyway,after another round of gentle bullying - by 8.35 a.m. we are ready to leave. Our friend from the village arrives to look after the dogs and I feel as though I've done a day's work already!!
We get to the airport and check in. We manage to get seats together there and back - so far so good! While we are sitting having a cup of tea and chatting to some of the other passengers, the news comes through that the plane is 40 mins late leaving Glasgow. Not unusual for Loganair but not the end of the world - we can still make it in time for Robin's appointment. We get on the plane and find that behind us a young woman is sitting with her 2/3 year old, who proceeds to kick the back of my seat and whine all the way to Glasgow. I manage to keep my teacher instincts under control and just thank my lucky stars that the trip is only 45 mins and that he's not sitting behind Robin!!
We get to Glasgow and walk very slowly to the exit. I stop at the ATM to get some cash and the machine eats my card! I go to the desk to report it to the assistant and she tells me that the machine must be faulty as it's the third time it's happened this morning - she proceeds to stick an 'OUT OF ORDER' notice on the machine while I refrain from asking why she didn't do that after the first person lost their card! While we're waiting for the taxi, I phone the bank to report my missing card. Thankfully, I have Robin's card with me.
We take a taxi to the hospital and check in at Neurology. The system works like clockwork and Robin sees his consultant on time, who is pleased with his latest blood work and hopes to be able to reduce the very high dosage of steroids that he is on at the moment. I ask the nurse at the desk if it is possible for me to get a wheelchair to take Robin to the main hospital because it is too far for him to walk and she tells me not to worry, she will order a buggy for us. 'That's great,' I say, 'I didn't know there was such a service.' So we wait in Reception for the buggy to arrive and we wait and we wait and we wait. It doesn't come. I begin to get twitchy because the time is fast approaching for my appointment. I go to the desk to ask if the buggy is likely to appear anytime soon to be told that a buggy hasn't been ordered for us! Okay, I go back to Robin and tell him that I'm going to look for a wheelchair. 'Don't do that', he says, 'I can walk it's not that far.' Well, against my better judgement, I take him at his word and we start to walk. Before long it is very obvious that it is too far and he's just not up to it. What do I do? Do I leave him in the middle of the concourse while I go and look for a chair or do we proceed very slowly. I decide on the latter. We make very slow progress with multi stops and manage to make the Children's Hospital building. We go in and I find Robin a seat while I go to find some water. We sit for ten minutes but by this time I'm cutting it fine for my appointment so we walk on - very slowly - to the main hospital.
You can see how our day was shaping up and that was just the beginning - can you stand any more?
It was great fun thanks and the Archbish, or his Grace, hasn't changed a bit! Talked about if Jesus was around now, people would be wanting selfies with him :lol:. So we nabbed him after and said in the absence of Jesus could we have a selfie with the next best thing!
My dad was horrified when John became a vicar.........."but he drinks, he smokes, he swears".....yes.....goodness knows what he'd think now! Remember going to visit him for a Xmas do in one of his Welsh parishes and one of the parishioners sucked in their breath and said "oooo he does a lovely funeral" :laugh:
We could do with more like him!
Well, if you're sitting comfortably, I'll go on with the next instalment of our saga.
We get to the Orthopaedic Clininc and I check in. The receptionist tells me that I need an X-ray, so I deposit Robin in a chair with his paper and my bag and coat and tell him that I will be half an hour at most. I take myself off to X-ray. I'm gone for 20 minutes at the most but by the time I get back Robin is nowhere to be seen! 'Your man just up and left', says the guy in the chair opposite, 'so I've been keeping an eye on your stuff for you, Lass.' It's a long time since anyone has called me Lass, so I thank him profusely and go in search of my errant husband. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Glasgow is vast - more like a village than a hospital - and he could be anywhere. I eventually find him on the first floor wandering around the cafeteria looking for me. He had gone to the loo and become disorientated. We get back to the clinic and the nurse says to me, 'Where have you been? We've been calling you.' There's no point in trying to explain. I go to see the consultant and, thankfully, the outcome of the interview is positive.
By this time Robin is starving so we decide that our best bet is to go back to the airport to eat. Luckily, we manage to find a taxi without too much hassle and make our way back. We head straight to security and this is where I make my big mistake. I scan my boarding card through the gate first. Robin tries several times to scan his card, unfortunately, without success - well the gate does open once but he isn't quick enough to get through. He is beginning to get very frustrated and the air is in grave danger of turning blue! I manage to attract the attention of an assistant who comes across to help. He must have crashed the system because she can't get it to work either. In her wisdom, she decides to usher him through priority screening - disaster because I'm on the other side!
I try to duck under the tape to join Robin who by this time is looking in complete disarray. Unsurprisingly, I am accosted by a large jobsworth who tells me I can't do that. Well, I probably shouldn't but I have. So jobsworth and I have a heated conversation about why an apparently inoffensive septigenarian would break all the aiport's rules while bystanders look on in disbelief and amusement and Robin has a total meltdown! You really couldn't write the script!
We have all been there when the jobsworth pushes us too far. I can remember plonking myself in First Class on a packed train, and announcing to the Conductor that there was no way in hell I was going to risk my brand new hip fighting my way through Standard Class. He started on the “Its not fair to the other passengers spiel”, and got my most withering response about “Did he think it was fair that I had to have my first joint replacement surgery at 26?”. For some reason the tone of my voice got through to him that he was not going to win this one, so he backed off very quickly. (It might have been the crutches I was waving about menacingly mind you....!!!).
I hope you made it home without further incident.
Just to end our saga .................................
We eventually get through screening without any further mishaps and even negotiate the duty free perfume department, where Robin sits on a seat where he can see me while I make my purchases and then we slowly - very slowly - make our way to the eating area.
With a plate of food in front of us, things begin to look distinctly rosier. Robin is enjoying a glass of wine and I am lulled into a false sense of security. I say to him, 'Are you okay to stay here for five minutes while I pop across to Boots?' He assures me that he is and so I take my purse and head off to Boots. I fill my basket with all the essentials I can't buy on the island and queue for five minutes for the check out - all the time thinking was this a bad move? I get to the check out and the assistant puts through all my goodies and then asks for my boarding card. Rats - my boarding card is in my bag and my bag is with Robin! I had forgotten that they need a boarding card - although why they do for toileteries escapes me. I leave my goodies and hurry back to Robin. Thankfully, he is still there - I heave a sigh of relief and resolve never to leave him alone again!
Robin needs the loo again so I think the best thing to do is to go to the gate where the loo is close by and I can keep an eye on the door. It takes a long time and multi stops to make the gate but finally we get there. We sit and we sit and the time comes for boarding and nothing happens; the time comes for departure and nothing happens. No announcements are made but we all rightly assume that they haven't made up the time they lost in the morning. Eventually we board 45 minutes late.
At last we're home. The dogs give us a tumultuous reception - I feed them and I'm just about to put some food in the oven for us when all the lights go out! I call the electricity help line to be told that there is a major fault on the network and all consumers on Islay, Jura and Colonsay are off - great! I light all the candles and the fire - pour us both a large gin and tonic and settle down to wait - actually it's quite cosy and relaxing after the day we've had - romantic even! Luckily we are only off for about an hour. What a day! A day not to be repeated in a hurry, I hope, but at least we survived to tell the tale!
themass15
06-12-2017, 18:05
A day you won't want to repeat in a hurry!
My goodness, what a day!
By the way, for a flight wholly within the EU it is not compulsory to show your boarding card when making purchases at the airport.
My goodness, what a day!
By the way, for a flight wholly within the EU it is not compulsory to show your boarding card when making purchases at the airport.
They don't seem to have read that memo at Glasgow, Linda!
Our day did lead me to wonder why, in this day and age, patients in rural communities can't access their consultants through video consultations. Robin and I both probably spent 15 minutes at most with our consultants. Additionally, Robin had bloods taken - which could have been done at our GP surgery and I had an X-ray which could have been done at our cottage hospital. Aside from the hassle, our day in Glasgow cost the NHS a lot of money in air fares. I'm sure that over the year video consultations would save the NHS a fortune. I can't be the first person to have thought of this so why, I wonder, isn't it happening?
WimbledonWestie
06-12-2017, 21:33
They don't seem to have read that memo at Glasgow, Linda!
I know! Even for a wee bottle of water and a mars bar! Couldn't be bothered saying they didn't need to see it but really....
They don't seem to have read that memo at Glasgow, Linda!
Or any other airport I've ever shopped in.
The last time I forgot my boarding pass I asked the lady behind me if I could borrow hers.
Luckily she agreed and to my amazement the guy behind the till accepted it.
Which I found most bizarre.
Although I was only buying my beautiful 1 yr old grandson some sweeeeeteeees.
hfwardhouse
07-12-2017, 15:00
I have done a video consultation once locally and have heard of others too. I just had to go to my local GP's surgery and they did it there. I'm sure it will come....
Thanks, hfwardhouse - that's really good to know. It would make so much sense for patients in rural areas.
hfwardhouse
07-12-2017, 16:56
Thanks, hfwardhouse - that's really good to know. It would make so much sense for patients in rural areas.
It was a big help. Saved me making good a 60 mile round trip into Aberdeen. Not as far as you of course!
supergran
12-12-2017, 15:17
This will be my last misery post of the year. Almost three months since Alan died and it seems to get harder every day. I still find it hard every morning when I wake up and he's not here. I feel so alone and lonely and miss him so much. Sometimes I don't get dressed, often I stay downstairs until the early hours of the morning and during the day I don't know what to do with myself. My life has no purpose now. I get through housework etc automatically. Everything has changed and its horrible. My family and friends are kind and visit. My son and daughter-in-law include me in outings etc and this weekend we are all going to the Lake District to celebrate our son's birthday but nothing is the same and it never will be. When I'm with people I chat, am cheerful but there's always an ache wishing Alan was with me. I cry almost every night, heartrending
sobs that sometimes take me by surprise. Knowing that I'll never see him again breaks my heart..people tell me he's with me but he isn't. They tell me I'm strong but I'm not, they say it will get easier but it won't. My life will never be the same. I never really understood what grief meant until now. I miss him constantly and now realise I'm on my own for the rest of my life. We loved each other so much and this is so hard to bear.
patmoren
12-12-2017, 15:33
You need to find an interest Maureen to give you something to focus on. It does get easier but you have to make the effort
It’s important to vent, so please do so. Things will get better, I promise. You will never stop missing him, but you will start to remember the good times. Remember it is better to have loved and lost than not loved at all. Have you read CS Lewis “A Grief Observed?” He describes the rawness you are feeling so well.
It’s only been 3 months, after a life time. It wouldn’t say much about your relationship, if 12 weeks on you were running around like a spring lamb. Try writing a diary of how you are feeling. As for not getting up and dressed, it took about 6 months after I retired before I was managing to be up and dressed before 15:00. It worried me, but the doctor said I had been battling for so long to keep going I needed it. You have had to be strong for Alan, to get through it as he became more and more disabled. You have a lot of grieving to do. You need to accept you are going to be feeling like excrement for a long time to come. Can you contact the organisation for bereaved spouses? I think it’s called Cruise.
Hang in there.
I do feel for you, Maureen. Would it help if you socialised with others in the same boat? In this area there are quite a few clubs for widows/widower (I stress not dating clubs but mutual support groups). Probably there is the same in your area. Ask around or look online. And have you talked to your priest? If you have, I expect he will have told you that you will see Alan again in heaven. Although I know that in times of stress, it can be difficult to hold on to your faith. But you should try to hold on to it if you possibly can.
Aw Maureen, sending hugs. And the time of year doesn't help either. How fortunate that you loved so deeply but unfortunately grief is the price we pay for having had, and lost, a great and true love. It's hard to bear but contrary to what you believe, you are strong. That strength will eventually see you through this torturous path and onto a smoother one. You must grieve, as you are now....all part of the journey. You are on course....you just happen to be on the roughest part of the journey now.:hug:
Three months is no time at all, SG. Life will never be the same again but you will find a new you - give it time.:grouphug:
supergran
12-12-2017, 23:33
Thank you so much Teresa, Linda Patlowe and Alis for your understanding and lovely posts. I just wanted to tell you all how I'm doing and as I said it will be the last misery post. I've been doing lots with family and friends; meals out, Christmas lunches, Manchester Christmas Markets, entertaining friends on a weekly basis, decorating the house etc. I have a weekend in the Lakes and then Christmas both with my family. In February I will be in Marbella and then joining my oldest friend in Dubai where she she spends three months with her son. She's already there and I hope to go in February.I really don't want to be told that I have to make an effort. I do every day.
Can I suggest that at some point, you think of getting a small dog. It does make a difference having another being in the house. You also have to take them out - it takes an incredibly strong will to resist “the look”. Since I retired a great deal of my social life revolves round my furry dictator. Some of her best mates slaves have become my friends.
RosieBear
13-12-2017, 14:16
Sending you big hugs, Mo :grouphug: I hope it's not insensitive to post happier news, hopefully it will make you smile....I passed my PhD viva yesterday (only two minor corrections):):):) Elated, relieved but also a bit lost - a big part of my life has come to an end. Pleased Christmas is around the corner, because looking forward to that is helping avoid an emotional cliff-edge. Thanks to all forum friends who expressed an interest and encouragement when we used to chat about my research at DC :thanks: :flowers:
supergran
13-12-2017, 14:32
Fantastic news RB. You have worked so hard so enjoy your success. You deserve it.:cheer:
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