Old story

Do not look too closely at the photo. I know it is very poor but it is there just to show you how close the sea was to the Army Camp in Hong Kong, well the New Territories really.

I write this because my American friend told me that to live where he does is Utopia as the weather is near perfect.

I think I have mentioned it before but when I had to do my National Service, I was eventually posted out to Hong Kong. Most will not realise this but it is on the Tropic of Cancer line and the weather was generally great. Mind you, I was so young as most of us were. most under 19 virgins and very immature. I wished many years later that I had been a few years older. I would then have appreciated things more.

I arrived in Hong Kong in April 1956. The summer was almost upon us. I do believe that we were wearing Olive Greens (OG). In the winter we wore Battledress as normal. In the summer months morning Parade was about 8.00am. Work then commenced until noon. The afternoon was free. Most either went to the sea, less than 50yds away or we just lay on our beds.we called the beds, pits. The photo just shows you how near the sea was to our Camp. Although the weather did get hot at times, we really never seemed to notice it. All I can remember about the heat was that if you left anything metal in the sun e.g a spanner, after about 5 minutes it was not possible to pick it up without a piece of cloth. There also seemed to be no dangerous insects about although we had to take an anti malaria tablet every day. Every morning we did bang the heel of our boots just in case anything crawled inside them but never heard of anything being caught. Where we were stationed was on the mainland. Hong Kong itself was so small. In 1897 I think G.B leased Hong Kong and the New territories for 100 years. The New territories was part of mainland China. The border was heavily secured by I think 3 lots of barbed wire. I never saw any patrols though. Anyway we were stationed on the Mainland about 17 miles from the Capital of the Mainland called Kowloon. Very Americanised it was. We were at a place called Castle Peak Bay. A lovely place. The South China Sea was as you can see very near to us. The tide hardly moved much at all. The water was very clear and during the summer months very warm. There were no Chinese people at all , whether they were allowed on the beach I very much doubt. It really was almost a perfect climate. Diseases were not common although a rash called Tina which was controlled by the use of Gentian Violet. No need to tell you what colour the cream was. Another irritant was Hong Kong ear. Not serious at all but if you caught it, three or four days out of the sea cured it. The worst was Prickly Heat which a few managed to get. Uncomfortable for those who had it. Thankfully only a few did. All the time I was there which was about 16 months we only had one alert about a typhoon. We put all the lorries and jeeps in a big circle, just like the wagons in those westerns. We tied them down but the next morning all we seemed to have was what we would call here, a gale. The sea was a little rough though. Still that is not bad at all. Yes we had rain but it was seasonal and I did not notice any prolonged dry spells. To be honest taking all into consideration, I think the weather was almost perfect. In the winter it did turn cooler. I know a few lads went into the sea on Christmas Day just to say they had been for a swim on that day. To be honest, I think that perhaps an electric fire would be handy on the coldest of days but I guess it would not be used more than half a dozen times in a year.

Just a little more about the camp. I guess there would be 120 or so guys there we were a squadron so anybody who knows about Armed Forces would know how many there would be. The Camp was adjacent to the main road, which if one looks carefully one can see. Crossing the road led to a dirt path and led to the beach. Most of us didn't wear plimsoll's(the official issue) until the weather got too hot for us to walk barefoot.

About once a fortnight we would go into Kowloon. The cinemas were all Air Conditioned and in the more modern Cinemas the seats would recline. On entering you would be given a synopsis of the film. If you read it, you knew exactly what the plot was and the outcome was written down. So if you read it there was no need to see the film. It was always a funny leaving the Cinema. I always found it a little hard to breathe properly for a minute or so. The difference in temperature was rather large.

I think I have rambled on long enough. really it was only to tell you about the great climate they have out there. Mind you, now in Hong Kong and I guess Kowloon too pollution is a huge problem. Over 50 years ago, no such problem.

This is the last blog of 2010 so I wish all who bother to read my rubbish a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous 2011. More hopefully next year.

Update

Now to the update or saga of prescriptions.
I heard nothing at all on Thursday, as I said before, I had to go to Hospital to see my Consultant. He really is a great guy and we are friendly, he always calls me by my christian name. Anyway the first thing he said was to wish me a Happy Christmas, then we went into his consulting room. He looked at my latest blood tests told me he was happy as everything was normal. I then mentioned to him that the toxic drug that he originally prescribed was not available to me on a repeat order. He then told me that he had instructed his assistant several months ago to write to each G. P requesting them to be put on repeat. Mind you, I would not pay him in washers, he is only a Specialist Nurse, but he thinks he is the Consultant in charge. I don't rate him at all. Saying that, my Consultant asked me if I would see him the next appointment. I said yes to him. He told me finally that he would remind him to write to the G.Ps. Whether he does write to all G.Ps I doubt it.
Anyway when I arrived home I waited in vain for my order from the Pharmacy. I did not sleep too well on Thursday night because 2 of my medications are almost finished and I would certainly have enough to last me over a prolonged Christmas break. So early Friday morning I rung the Pharmacy, I was put in touch with some woman, who at first told me to re.order. I told her in no uncertain manner that I had ordered the prescription and I had proof. She then told me to wait a minute. Almost immediately I heard my name mentioned the woman then came back and told me that there would be a delivery later that day. I then asked her to find out how many items were going to be delivered as I should have 5. She confrimed that there would be 5. Thank goodness I received my prescription late Friday afternoon so I once again have sufficient.
I wonder just how many people are treated this way? As we get older, I think they try to take advantage of us. Thank goodness I had proof of ordering. Oh well let's hope 2011 will be a better year for all. More soon.

What a performance

The title says it all.
On Monday morning I went into town to make an appointment to see a Dr. No point in phoning as they are generally engaged or do not answer because they are dealing with those wanting to make an appointment. My appointment was for 10.00am. I was surprised because I got there early and the Dr. saw me early. I explained to him that I had a medication that I could not repeat myself. He was very good, explained all to me. The reason being that the prescription was originally issued by the Hospital Dr. They arrange for me to have blood forms and when I have to go for tests. He then informed me that they do not get the results of the blood tests so they do not know if they are doing right with issuing these toxic tablets. He went on the web and then spent about 10 minutes showing me all the rules they are now having to follow. I also asked him to take my B.P as the last time I went for a Blood Test it was high. Unfortunately it was even higher. He told me that he would double the dosage I was on to control my hypertension. He then said to me he would give me 1 months supply of the toxic drug but he asked me to mention the problem to my Consultant when I see him, which incidentally is tomorrow.
He saw me out of his surgery shaking my hand, I then went to the Nurse in the Pharmacy in the Surgery. I explained to her that I now had several prescriptions. She informed me that if I wished I could go to the chemist and collect these new prescriptions now. I told her that I would wait until all were ready. She then told me that I would not get the others as I had not ticked the boxes. I asked her to lend me a pen, ticked the boxes and gave them to her. She told me that she would send them off to the Main Pharmacy and they would be delivered. Yesterday afternoon, Nick the delivery man bought a small package. I immediately said to him "Is that all?" He told me that this was all that was issued. I opened the packet. It was the hypertension tablets, the increased dosage. Now this morning, he came again with another small package. He saw me looking funny and realised that this was not a complete order. I once again opened the package, inside was a repeat of the increased dosage of my hypertension tablets and my toxic drugs. None of the remainder was there. I reminded him what had happened, he left saying he would sort it out. He came back about 5 minutes later saying that the pharmacy had informed him that I had not ordered them. I told him what had happened and he said he remembered me telling him yesterday. I gave him the repeat 5 mg of tablets. He was astounded, I went to fetch what he had delivered to me yesterday, he looked carefully at them, did not know what to say but I told him it was not his fault but they often get things wrong. He was full of apology I told him not to worry. He then told me he would deliver to me tomorrow. I then informed him that I would not be in for several hours as I had an appointment at Hospital. He just told me that he would make sure I did get them. If the people in the Pharmacy was as conscientious as he is then all would be well. I will wait and see what happens.

Busy

Recently I have been busy, yesterday morning was taken up by going to the surgery, collecting my State Pension and getting things that I need for the week, namely milk and bananas.
Last night I was on the phone to my friend in Derbyshire, time went by and was talking to him for over an hour. Immediately rung off, the phone went. I thought it was my friend queering some comments that we had been discussing, but no. It was the man who took over my old business. he still keeps in contact with me although it was late 1997 when I sold it to him. Once again talk was long and it was again well over the hour. I finally decided that my blog would wait. Anyway, I have not too much to say anyway.
the weather is the main talking point everywhere you go. It has been so very cold for well over a month. It reminded me of an old Railway Driver who told me this old saying. By the way he told me that it came from an old farmer. "Ice in November to bear a duck, nothing much after but sludge and muck". So much for that old saying. Mind you, to be honest it has been generally a good yardstick in previous years.
Finally an update as to my Securities. I am sorry not to have reported this immediately but last week I disposed of Vodafone and yesterday, I sold National Grid. I made about 10% plus profit on each Security. All I have at the moment are Lloyds Banking Group and Aviva.
To be honest, I think I will just take a back seat for now as I truly expect a correction in the Stock Market within the next few months. All I wanted to do was to earn more than one could get on any savings account. To be honest to get more than 3% with instant access is a very good return so me getting over 10% is satisfactory.
Tonight or tomorrow we may get more snow. I hope not because on Thursday I am due at Hospital for a check up. More soon.

Recent Snow

It is the recent bad weather that bought to mind a story about a young guy. This was around 1973. He was a Young college student, very well spoken, a businessman's son. He used to visit me occasionally. One day he came to see me and told me that he had been turned down by this girl. Incidentally she was a stunner. He told me he could not understand it and asked her why. He then told me she just said to hm "Why does the sun shine", I told him to try to forget her. When he was 17 his father gave him a car, I only saw him on odd occasions after that. Well he went to University and the first Christmas he came home, for two reasons, first to get money from his father and to try again for the girl he wanted. He was successful in one out of two, namely getting money from his father.
Anyway he called to see me over the Christmas vacation, there was snow on the ground and parked his car, came to see me and have a coffee. Eventually leaving, getting into his car, a few minutes later he was back. I asked him what was wrong, he then told me his car would not move. I said to him I would go and see what was wrong. He got in the car, started it then put it in gear tried to move off and his wheels just slipped on the icy snow. I then tapped on the widow. he wound the window down, I then told him to put his car into 2nd gear, do not engage the clutch quickly and gradually put his foot on the accelerator. He did this and away he went. A couple of days later, when the snow had almost gone, he came in to thank me. I just told him that this was the norm. When we were his age, the lads who had cars would pass on any tips about driving, this way we learned many things. I told him also that every winter there should be some weighty things in the boot to help with traction. He took it all in and left. It must be remembered that all cars then were rear wheel driven, all cars were made of steel. any dent in the wing or anywhere else was hammered out and if a filler was required filled then repainted. Every garage had a panel beater or someone who was capable of repairing dents. Tyres were only cross ply and very thin. Anyway I never saw him again.
This is not the end of the story though, it would be, I guess 3 years or so later, two guys who used to hang around with him were in the Restaurant. I heard one of them mention his name. It was an unusual name. Anyway. on hearing his name mentioned, I listened to the conversation. It went something like this. "Did you hear about *****?" No, what about him?" Well, he's in prison for living off immoral earnings". It seems that he had about 3 prostitutes working for him. I was astounded, he was such a quiet unassuming young man. It just shows you, you never know about someone until you live with them, then you do not always know. More useless stuff soon.

Old Tale

This story was bought to mind by watching an episode of Poirot on Sky. It was one where he was mistaken for a newspaper celebrity that if a member of the public accosted him with a copy of the newspaper and stated that he was the said man, he would be rewarded with a cash sum.
Well, remember I mentioned the Carnival well in the Carnival Programme it stated something similar. It said something like. If you see Mr Personality carrying a programme and challenge him, you will win £5. It is only the first person to challenge him successfully but it runs for 6 days. Sunday to Friday.
Well this was I think in 1970. The programmes cost 1/- or 5p now.
I employed a young student who was always trying to catch me out. He never did though. I decided to get one over him. I have mentioned the Fish Shop over the road. The proprietor was not particularly friendly. It seemed that everyone who was new to business, they were ignored. It took me about 5 years before they realised that I was there to stay.
Well the Fish Shop sold wet fish on a Friday, I think that was the only day he sold wet fish. I had also noticed that he also wore a straw boater only of course when he sold wet fish.
Well I told this lad, who I got to know well worked with me in the kitchen. I suggested that he buy a programme because I knew who Mr. Personality would be but did not know exactly which day he would be the one. He didn't believe me at first but I convinced him so much that eventually he bought a programme.
I was very serious when I told him who it was. I made him promise me that he would never tell anyone. He agreed. I then told him that when the man in the Fish Shop wore his straw boater, he was then Mr. Personality for that day but he must hurry up because it was only the first person to challenge him successfully that won the £5.
Anyway the day came, a Friday, I told him as soon as I saw the straw boater on the Fishmongers head. He dashed over with his programme. It took me all my time not to laugh, anyway I didn't hear what went on but I saw. The l;ad came back red faced. I asked him if he got his £5. All he would say was that the Fish Shop man told him to piss off and not to be so bloody stupid and stop wasting his time.
I just laughed heartily, mind you he never tried to catch me out ever again.
By the way, yes that was the same Fish Shop man who became very friendly years later. More soon.

Slight Thaw

Just a quick note, today has been a little warmer, the temperature did reach 4c. That was as high as it managed and to be honest, walking was treacherous. My postman called and told me that a Lorry had just slipped off the road a few hundred yard away, I think it made him more careful.
Now to something different. L have had Sky since I came here and before that. As I have been here almost 18 years you have some idea as to how long. Anyway I have had Sky+ for several years but the last few months it has begun to play up. Finally all I had on my hard drive disc was 2 hours of recording time. I think it originally had 80 hours. I have never had a service contract as I do not think they are value for money. Originally it cost £50 a year, my mate's Brother has a contract and it costs him about £90 a year. Anyway I had through the post an offer stating that if I took a self set up. a H.D box would be sent free, also delivery would be free and for a bonus 2 months free viewing but I must sign up for a 1 year contract. As a call out would cost about £95 to repair my Sky+ with no guarantee that it would last, I decided to order the H.D.Box. Yesterday my mate came and set it all up and got it working. All I had to do was ring Sky so that they could authorise the card so that it worked.
Yes now I have H.D. T V. Am I impressed? NO not really, to be honest I can not see much difference at all. Mind you I do not see too good, however the good thing is that I have a new box with a new remote control. Am I pleased that I changed? Yes but whether I carry on after the 1 year I am not sure. I think too much has been made about H.D.T.V. Still it may be me. Perhaps after a few weeks I will change my mind. More soon.

Dogs

No! I haven't gone to the dogs, well I don't think so but this is about dogs. A friend will understand.
Now as anyone who reads this blog will realise that I am on toxic drugs. This means that I have to have regular blood tests. At first it was every 14 days then gradually to every month now after about 2 years I am allowed to have a blood test every 3 months. I tell this because I used to get the same Nurse to take my blood. We became friendly and eventually she would talk of other things. I take her tomato plants each year. She told me about her Parrot. She was upset because she had only bought the parrot less than 6 months. The cost was £1000. Well she decided to buy another young Parrot. Her husband started to train it to talk with the odd expletive but she was and is thrilled that the bird is talking and very much a part of the family. Again this cost £1000. She bought photos to show me, she had an old Labrador and a young poodle . I remarked that it looked like an Apricot Poodle, she confirmed to me that it was. I remarked that they were not common at all.
Well early this year, she told me that her husband and her had discussed whether to let her dog(bitch) have a litter of pups. She knew of a dog Poodle which was Apricot. Now remember I am now not seeing her too often. The next time I saw her, she had took her bitch to the dog, she told me the first time her bitch was not cooperative at all but the next time she laughed and told me she could not get to the dog soon enough. She told me the coupling was good and although a second meeting was advised, she was sure that it had been a success. The cost she told me was £50. If tit was a blank, no refund was given.
I was angry because I went to see my Consultant at Louth Hospital and he wished me to have a blood test immediately. I went back to my local surgery but my regular nurse was not available. I saw another who I knew well. I was telling her about the other Nurse and her Poodle, she then told me that she had been with her Granddaughter to see the pups. 9 originally but 2 died. She then told me that her Granddaughter was disappointed because the Parrot did not talk. I told her that it was perhaps just as well as the parrot sometimes swore. We laughed.

Now luckily enough the other day I went for a blood test. Yes it was with my old Nurse. She gave me all the information and showed me the photos. They looked cute. She had 7 surviving dogs 5 bitches and 2 dogs. Originally when we discussed the cost of the pups. The woman whose dog was used told the Nurse to advertise them on the Internet and charge £700 each. She told me that she didn't think they would sell. I told her about my younger Sister. She wanted a Chihuahua, I told her I called it a glorified rat but everyone to their taste. I could not remember just how much she paid but it was well over £200. This was about 6 years ago. Now my Sister lives in Scotland and I told her she came to Wragby to get this dog, they called it Wragby after the place it was purchased. That cheered her up a bit.
Now she told me that she advertised them on the Internet. Young bitches £750 and the dogs £700 for each one. She told me that for a week, nothing then they were inundated with enquiries. She told me that she had 2 left. One dog was sold and would be collected shortly and she was keeping one for herself. Now she had to register them with the Kennel Club. She told me this was costly. I never ask anything about price so I do not know how much it costs. She told me that there is an annual fee but it was not too expensive. I asked her if she was going to put her bitch to a dog again, she told me that it was highly unlikely but the young bitch she is keeping will perhaps be put to a dog eventually.
Finally this brought to me a good colleague who passed away several years ago. He used to come in to my place every weekday, he was a window cleaner but never charged me at all as I always gave him his morning tea, we used to have a little get together putting the world right, there would be about 6 of us. Anyway one day when we were alone, he told me that him and his wife was going to make a fortune. I asked him with what and it was sometime before he told me. He was going to breed dogs. Now they had a Pekineses bitch, he had shown it a couple of times. He told me a judge went over to see them and told them they would not win until they had been showing for about 6 months, the bitch was a beautiful dog and would certainly start to win regular. When he told me this. I told him that if he made any money, I would pull my hair out by the roots. Well unfortunately they spent a fortune preparing everything but unfortunately did not have Internet access so they failed dismally. Mind you I did not realise just how much money some folks will pay for pedigree dogs. I hope my friend from the Peak District is taking notice. Enough of this for tonight. More soon.

Carnival

This was reminded to me by my American friend whose blog is well worth a look. Far better than mine.
Anyway, when I first started my business in the late 60s early 70s there was what was called a Carnival Parade. This had been going on for quite a few years before I started. It was always the case, most locals moaned stating that the Carnival, which ran for a week was not of any use to the youngsters as they were at school. It was also known as the last week of the season. It was originally started to prolong the Summer Season another week. Carnival week started the first Monday in September, the children going back to school on the Tuesday. The Parade itself was on the following Saturday. This day was a little better than the preceding 5 because they were of little or no use at all.
In those early days, most Holiday Camps closed their door at the end of September, the last 2 weeks were reserved for owners only. There were a couple of private sites that closed on October 15th. It was then a long winter.
Over the years though Holiday Camp sites changed hands and the season was extended to the end of October. This did make the season last although in general, it was only at the week ends that trade was brisk. The Parade which was always on the last day was altered. It was then decided that the Carnival would be in I think early August and the Parade was on the Sunday, really starting the Carnival week.
Over the years, there were many regulars who came to take part. I remember one in particular. A fellow dressed up as Old Mother Riley. He was very good. He used to come in and have lunch every season. It was as I was nearing my lease end that he told us that reluctantly this was to be his final appearance as it was getting too much for him. I decided to give him the meal and a thank you for the pleasure that he had given so many, and of course the monies that he had helped to generate for charities.
The most complaints we had was the distance that the Parade took. Many were children of tender years and to march. or rather walk for about 90 minutes was too much for them. It was really well supported though.
Unfortunately the last few years, I lost contact as I was on the sea front with my business so missed the Parade.
I will tell you this though, there was one display of a Spitfire, it was to fly past the playing fields. As I was on the sea front, I had a perfect view. It was brilliant as it did 2 fly pasts. I can not just remember how much it was but the organisers told me that the insurance was astronomical and it was definitely a one off. I managed to see it for free. a sight I will never forget. I guess this was in 1994 or thereabouts. More soon.

Record Temperatures

What a few days we have had here in the U.K. On Friday morning the temperature at 11.00am was minus 4c. do believe this is about 24f. Today has been even colder, I went out for my State Pension at 9.30am and the temperature was minus 6c. 21f. I was not fortunate enough to get all of my State Pension as the Post Master informed me that he had not had a delivery since last Wednesday so he had to restrict everyone because there was a shortage of money. I have never known anything like this at the seaside and I have lived here over 40 years.
Yesterday my postman called, he told me that it was the first day he had delivered mail to me since Wednesday last week. On Thursday and Friday, the sorting office was instructed not to venture out at all, on Saturday the country deliveries were suspended but the town deliveries went ahead. So it seems as if most things ground to a halt.
I did manage to get out on Sunday though to get some fresh mil a d bananas. I planned today that as I was going to the dentist, I would call on at the local shop and get some vegetables. Unfortunately the veg shop was closed. To be honest, I thought it might be as they sell produce from their Son and Daughter's small holding near Boston.
I eventually went to the Dentist, he told me that the temperature this morning when he set off was minus 15c about 5f. He then told me that he had about 2ft of snow where he lived and could not get to work until yesterday. I guess we have to be thankful for living near the sea as all we had was about 6" After all of that he finally extracted my loose tooth, he told me that he thought it was broken but he was not going to dig the root out, this suited me. He then suggested to me that I wait for an addition to my plate because he could not guarantee the plate would be returned before Christmas. I agreed so I have another appointment in early January.
My mate who lives in Skegness informed me that his Mother is not well. To be honest, I just don't know how she has lived for so long. The last time I saw her she was very frail. Anyway, all this means is that I do not know if he will be calling to see me this week. I have been fortunate really as he comes about once a fortnight and brings me what I have ordered. All I do is feed him and if there are any jobs I want doing he readily does them for me. It may be that I will have to go to visit him myself if he cannot get to me. I have told him, he must not leave his Mum alone for long. More soon.

Weather

The cancellation of Lincoln Christmas Market reminded me of a story my Accountant gave me many years ago. To put you in the picture as to my Accountant's mind worked I will just say this. He once told me that he could not save me any money at all as I was single. However if I had a house full of kids he could save me lots. I remarked that if I had a houseful of kids, I would not be in business.
Not to the story. He always called to see me on Boxing Day every year. This Boxing Day, I guess it would be around 1983, he came in and we were having a drink of coffee when he said to me that I was in the wrong trade. I asked him to explain more. He then said something like this. " You know the new Lincoln Market?"I said yes although I did not know of it's existence. He went on" This man who is a one man band went there to sell the Father Christmas hats. I guess you have seen them, they are all the rage." I must admit that they were seen in abundance so I said I had seen them. He then went on to say " He bought them at 25p each and sold them at 50p each and made £5000 profit." I asked him in how many days did he take to sell them. He retorted, that this was in a day. I immediately said to him " Never on your life, it is impossible to take that sort of money being a one man band especially as the Market was only open for about 5 hours and I think at the time was only a 2 day Market" He told me that he was only there for a day, I then started to work things out. I told him that to make £5000 he would have to sell 10,000 hats. he readily agreed. I then suggested to him that to make things easier to work out, I would say that he worked for 5 hours a day for 2 days making a sale of 1000 hats on an average in 1 hour. I reminded him that this would mean about 1 hat every 4 seconds maximum. I suggested to him that he could not give the change to the customers in such a short time as everyone would not have a 50p piece handy. I then reminded him that this was for 5 hours continuous serving, not taking into consideration as to how the hats would be packed. I presumed in boxes of 144. This would mean over 30 boxes to be stored and of course opened when more were needed. I told him it just was not possible to do as a one man unit, and this was giving extra time to what he had been told. Anyway after about 2 minutes of silence, he looked at me and then said, " You are right, if you put it that way it is definitely not possible." I then said to him ,"What other way can one put it?" He then said to me that on reflection it was a silly thing he had been told and told me to forget it.
I mentioned this to my best pal, he told me that most Accountants worked on figures and not logic. Just put a lot of figures in front of them and they will work out all sorts of permutations he told me. He also told me that there are 3 necessary evils in this world. Estate Agents, Solicitors and Accountants. I just said to him, I wonder if I was the biggest fool for employing him. Unfortunately, all Accounts had to be presented to the local Tax office by an Accountant. At that time, most towns in England had a local Income Tax office. The nearest one to me was about 20 miles away. Anyway I didn't try to sell any Father Christmas hats. More soon.

Windows part 2

As I had to wait until I had enough money to have built an extension instead of the conservatory it was 2 years but was well worth it, apart from the John Carr windows. Eventually I decided to have one front window taken out and French Doors in UPVC fitted in the place where the window was. I also had a front door fitted in UPVC. I had originally an entrance lobby, small but it was draughty. It certainly stopped much of the draughts. Then one by one I had all the other windows replaced. By now the local Council had jumped on the band wagon and insisted that all new replacement double glazing had to be inspected by one of their representatives, at a cost to anyone who has had them fitted. I can't remember just how much it cost but they send a certificate stating they comply with Building Regulations. Anyway I had them all done with the exception of my garage window and door. My mate has an account with a UPVC windows and doors firm so he ordered a new door and window, he did the fitting and I was just the labourer. As it went well he suggested, about 4 years ago that we could replace the soffits fascia barge boards and guttering. This, he said would finally complete the whole bungalow.
We started the work in November, it was cold but he knew what he was doing, we stripped everything down except the gable ends. It took us about 3 days to complete, his brother took the old guttering away. I kept the main barge boards for the edging to a path. The only snag we hit was when we came to fit the guttering on. It started to rain, it is surprising just how much water runs off the roof. We both were soaked but we did finish it.
By the way, the whole lot cost us less than $1000. oop. Quotes were around £4500 and all they would do is attach the plastic to the existing wood. Anyway all I have is one door that is not connected to the property, whether I will change that I doubt very much. The best of it is, now all I have to do is wash the plastic down occasionally and it still comes up like new. Much cheaper and far less work than painting.
Had a phone call today from the Dental Surgery, I have another appointment date, next Tuesday. He was not at work again today, the receptionist told me that there was 14" of snow where he lives. More soon.

No dental appointment

With all the snow about, my dentist who lives out in the Lincolnshire Wolds was unable to get to work so no dental appointments for anyone today. The roads were very good here at the seaside, with the strong easterly winds the salt seems to lift the temperature just enough for the temperature to be above freezing. Most of today it was about 37f or 3c.
I guess this is one of the pluses of living in rural Lincolnshire, mind you I have to pay an awful lot for my heating. I went to Grantham last Wednesday and my sisters were comparing their bills. One pays about £60 a month and the other just a little less, this is for their combined heat and light. I just told them that although I was pleased with the £250 winter fuel allowance, my next LPG bill would be in excess of £350. also I would have at least another 3 more bills of the same sort of price and that I had already had a fill in early September. They do not know just how lucky they are being on the mains gas. I wish was.
My American friend has just painted his front door, it looks good too. He tells me that he employs someone to cut his grass as he is too lazy. I told him it is sensible to get someone to cut his grass. I sorted my garden out so that I have NO grass at all, unless it is in weed form.
Anyway, back to the painting. When I had my bungalow built in 1992./3 I had wooden double glazing windows, it had been mandatory to fit those sort of windows for about 5 years. Anyway I could not afford a large bungalow but insisted that I had the best windows. I had fitted Magnate and Southern cedar wooden framed windows. I originally had a conservatory on the rear of the property facing south west. I used to get home from my work to an oven, I decided that as soon as I could afford it I would have the conservatory demolished and have an extention instead. This took me about 2 years to find the money. The man who did the extention told me that John Carr windows were very good. I mentioned this to my mate who also told me that they were the best. When all was done, I looked at the windows, they were rubbish. I compared them to Magnate and Southern being a BMW and John Carr being a Lada. My mate had to agree that they were not in the same league as Magnate. This made up my mind, I would gradually change all of my windows and doors for UPVC windows which by now had become popular. To keep my wooden windows looking good, I bought Sadolin Extra cedar which is not cheap and had to paint the windows and doors every 2 years. To be continued tomorrow I hope.

I found a couple more photos. Looks nice but stops me from getting any vegetables. I guess that it will give the fruiterers an excuse for putting up the prices. I can understand the reason for increasing the price when the weather is like it is now but can not understand why they never drop the price again once the temporary bad weather relents. That's my little whinge.

Snow in November

Fancy this! snow in November, at the seaside too. This is outside my front door on Sunday afternoon, it is below freezing.
I was worried that it would get a lot worse as this morning I was to have a blood test at 9.20am. The weather was a little better though, I left early for the surgery about 4 miles away as I did not know what the conditions would be like. However I was surprised, the easterly wind lifted the temperatures enough for it to not to freeze. The main road was not bad and when I arrived in the village, the roads were better and when I turned into the side road and parked. All was well because the snow was not icy. I even had time to call in at the local shop and get some milk and bananas. Mind you I was pleased to get home again. Now tomorrow I have to go to the dentist to have at least one tooth extracted and it is twice as far away and the weather forecast is not good. Still I will wait and see what tomorrow brings. More soon.

Horrendous traffic

On Wednesday I went to Grantham to see my Sisters. I will not be going over there again this year. The traffic was absolute hell. I could not understand just why everywhere was more or less gridlock. It took me 30 minutes to get into the Supermarket from the outskirts of town. It then took 15 minutes to get out of the car park after getting a few bits and bobs. Eventually I called at Asda filling station. I know the lady there and mentioned the traffic. She then told me that there had been an accident on the A1 and diversions were being used. I think every car came to Grantham. I eventually went to see my Sisters, they confirmed what the lady had told me, they also noticed that the local bus was running very late. I only stayed there for about 30 minutes then headed back to the main road. It was nose to tail all the way, I was lucky as immediately I was at the junction a woman let me in the queue. It still took me over 30 minutes to travel about 1/2 mile, 800m. I eventually arrived home, it took me more than 30 minutes longer than normal. as I did not feel 100% I was glad to get home and in the warm.
This morning I got up early to watch a little cricket. I noticed that we had a smattering of snow, however as it broke daylight it started to snow again. As it was fereezing it settled and we soon had about an 1". Around 9.30am the temperature rose a little and the snow started to melt. Unfortunately about 30 minutes later we had a heavy snow storm lasting about 45 minutes. When it had finished the main road was completely covered. I was so pleased that I had gone to Grantham yesterday. Later in the day, most of the snow had gone, but I suppose there will be more soon as the forecast is not good for the next week or so.
Finally the cost of petrol at Asda in Grantham was 115.9p per litre. Here it is 1.22.9p. I guess that is why the country is becoming less populated. Mind you it has it's advantages. More soon.

Teething problems

As most will know who bother to read this will realise that I have an illness that means I lose most of my calcium.
It was because of this that on Friday I suddenly found I had swallowed a portion of one of my 5 remaining teeth. Unfortunately, this was a front molar, anyway I immediately rung the surgery and managed to get an appointment for this morning bright and early. 8.45am. This is several miles away but it was no problem. I decided to do several jobs while I was out. I went to the bottle bank, only to dispose of a coffee jar. I then went to the Medical Centre to put my repeat prescription in then booked a blood test. I am due at hospital next month and my consultant wishes to see that my blood is O.K. as I am on a toxic drug. I only have to go for blood tests now every 3 months, it started off by being every 14 days but has gradually decreased.
I went to see the dentist, thinking that he would confirm my worst thoughts, both teeth would have to be removed, one at the top and one at the bottom. I was surprised when he suggested that he would try to fill the top front tooth but admitted that the loose tooth on the bottom would have to be removed. He duly filled the top one and we are both keeping our fingers crossed. He then asked me to find my old lower denture so that he could have a false tooth fitted where the loose one is coming out, he told me that he did not know though just how long it would take. I have found the old lower denture but it has some scale on it. I will try to get something from Grantham as I hope to go there tomorrow. The next appointment is for Tuesday next week.
Finally for M. I have been in touch with my friend who was supposed to be here last week and does not know if he will be here this week either as his Mother is suffering from vertigo. I will keep my fingers crossed though. He has a lot of coffee for me. More soon.

Shares

This morning I ws up a little later than usual. I lay in bed not knowing the time, I eventually decided to get up and check the time. It was about 8.15. I am normally up and about before 8.00am. I went through my usual routine, after I had finished turned on the T.V. wanting to watch cricket on Eurosport. I was surprised to see nothing of the sort was on so I turned to CNBC to check on the Stock Market. Much to my surprise the headlines was about National Grid, stating that profits had increased and that the dividend had also increased. I immediately went online and checked out the National Grid web site. True enough the interim results were posted, I downloaded them then read them, they were good.
I went back to CNBC then went on Bloomberg there they have a ticker every few minutes giving the up to date prices of the Ftse 100. I was surprised to see that N.G. had fallen a few pence. I went back to CNBC to watch the ticker tape going by. It gives an up to the minute of transactions of decent sizes of stocks. I was horrified to see that the shares in National Grid had fallen by over 10 pence from yesterday's close. I did no more, I immediately rung my broker and bought a few hundred more shares. I do mean a FEW hundred as they cost over £5.70 a share. The broker was surprised when I asked him if they had suddenly gone EX Dividend as the fall was so surprising to me. He told me he had not even had any notice that the interim results had been announced. Anyway I thanked him and still bought the shares. At one stage the shares in National Grid were the worst performing shares in the S.E. 100. Eventually though thyey gradually went back up so that eventually they reached parity on yesterday. Finally, they were 2p better than yesterday.
Anyone who is considering buying securities, I would suggest that a close look at those of N. G. The interim dividend is 12.9p. It is anticipated that the total dividend will mean an overall dividend of about 6%. Far more than any Bank or Building Society would bring. Mind you, share can go down as well as up.
A final footnote was that the compare was interviewing a man, I think from Barclays Wealth. He suggested that they were a buy on his list and that over the medium term, he expected the share price would rise so that the annual income would be a little less than the current 6%.
I think tomorrow, I will be acting more normal. Hopefully.

Catering Exhibitions

I will tell you about one or two of the Catering Exhibitions I went to. They were set up to get you to use their services during the season.
The best venue I ever went to was the Petwood Hotel in Woodhall Spa. There is so much nostalgia regarding the Dam Busters and all that surrounded 619 Squadren. I do believe that the Officers Mess was at the Petwood. It was, when I went to a frozen food company that held it's exhibition there. Just about large enough for them.
The best for another thing was held at the Festival Pavillion in Skegness. There was another held in Skegness. It was called Caterex. I think it is still going. It was a large concern and covered the Embassy and Festival Pavillion with a bus shuttle available. The trouble was that there was little security so that lots of strangers went to Caterex so it was crowded.
Now to the best one. I will start by saying my Restaurant was unlicenced. There was a licenced restaurant about 6 business away. Well the salesman called to see me, I told him I was unlicenced but he could have a cup of tea with us if he wished. He did so then asked if we sold soft drinks. I said yes, so he said he could supply with us with soft drinks at a good price. Anyway I agreed and during the season we got on well together. At the end of the year, he told me that he would send me 2 tickets to go to his exhibition, to be honest I had been told about this and also told it was the best one going.
I didn't think about it and closed for the winter, I had a young man who helped me who was at college and would see me regular during the winter. Early Rebruary I duly received tickets to admit me and a friend to the Festival Pavillion. I just left them lying around, when the lad, who was approaching 18 came to see me, noticed these tickets, asked me if I was going, I told him probably not. I could see he was disappointed, so I said O. K. we will go.
At the outer door was a couple of men asking if we had tickets, I told them I had, they then opened the outer door. This led to another door just before entering the hall. I was then asked to produce the tickets. They were inspected and one of the men told me that they had to be careful as nobody who did not have a licenced premesis was allowed in. He then allowed us in with a curt, enjoy yourselves. The first thing we saw when we went in was a stand and this man asked us if we would like to taste some real ale. We both refused, I did not drink much and Freddie. I will call him liked lager. This was around 1981. There were about 60 stands. As you can imagine. most of them were beer stands, there was also about 4 whisky stands 2 rum stands, and I think a couple of wine stands. The wine was not given so freely but the whisky stands were well supported and there was plenty of spirits offered to taste, generous portions too. I was really interested in a dry Bain Marie, I had a wet one, well I found a stand and made arrangements for the rep to visit me, as soon as I had left, I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was the rep from Hobart. I had known him for about 5 years, having bought a microwave, mixer and steamer from them. He asked me how I had managed to get into the building as it is strictly for licenced premesis only. I just griined. He then produced his Diary and pointed to the note in red. It stated the time and date of the exhibit and underneath was "A great free piss up". He then told me that all the reps looked forward to this one as it was the best of all.
Anyway Freddie enjoyed his time there he was well cut by the time we left.
The first time after the show the rep asked me if I had been to the show. I told him I had, he then told me something that surprised me. He told me that no orders much were taken at the show as most went there for a good piss up and what happened was that when he called on them, they felt obliged to stay with them for the coming season. I told him I had made arrangements for a salesman to call on me. He grinned and told me nothing would come of it. He was correct.
He enjoyed calling on us and in early May I think it was, he told me that Skegness had been chosen to play the game "It's a Knockout" only this year it was going continental and the Skegness was going to go to France. I can't remember exactly where. He then told me that he was on the team, but only as a reserve. I think the team was 6 plus 2 reserves. He then told me that the BBC had told them that they would have to wear the same clothes. I think the BBC supplied the blazer which they had to pay for, they had to wear grey flannels. I can't remember though if they had to pay for their own transport and hotel costs. The disappointment for him was that he never appeared on T V as he was only a reserve. I think he was disillusioned especially having to pay for the blazer. He did wear it once to show us. I think it had BBC It's a Knockout on the top pocket. Hope I have not bored anybody More soon.

Shock

Before I talk about things, I must make a comment. I just saw on T V an advert by I think Wonga. It was about the cost of borrowing money. The payback if nothing out of the ordinary was done was in excess of 2000%. I was staggered, I thought this sort of charging had been abolished.
Now, I said that I had heard nor seen any fireworks this year. This now is not true, on Saturday November 13th, about 7.45pm there was a lot of noise, I realised that there was fireworks being let off. No fire though as far as I could see. The letting off of fireworks lasted for about 45 minutes. I guess it would have cost an awful lot of money. On Sunday morning I noticed several spent rockets on my back yard. Where the fireworks were let off was about 3 houses away, but the wind was blowing perfect for the fireworks to finish up in my garden. There were also other cartridges found, mind you the wooden rocket sticks come in handy for sticking young fuschia plants.
As it was a reasonable day, I did a little tidying up for the winter, a sad time I always think. Anyway I have some more clearing up to do and I still do not know if the next green waste will be the last for this year. I will ask my friend who has told me he will, all being well be here on Thursday. I rung him up last night and he told me the electricians had just left, so he has now had the installation completed. More soon.

Shopping

After a wild and windy night I decided to go to the loacl town shopping. I was told that Cost Cutter was a good place to go for milk and there was a long date on the milk. Anyway I went to town, managed to park fairly close to the shops. I innocently walked about 100 yds to the shop. Innocently not looking immediately where the shop was but looking at the vegetable shop almost opposite. I walked across the road and stared in amazement. No Cost Cutter. All there was there was shutters and a sign informing that the place was available for rent.
It was just as well I did not go there especially to go to Cost Cutter, I then crossed back across the road and went about 30 yards to the local butchers. Mind you, I do not think they know what Best end of Lamb is or Crown Roast is they are both the same. I asked if they had any, and the reaponse was negative, I then asked if I could order one, I was informed that they don't get any in. There is no answer to that. I did though get some sirloin steaks and a few lamb chops with lambs liver and sausage. I also ordered first some cooked ham, it really is nice there.
I left and went down to the veg, shop. It is run by an elderly couple whose Son and Daughter in Law or vice versa have a small holding near Boston. I bought a couple of swede a stick of brussel sprouts and a cabbage. All for £2.20, very reasonable indeed. I then called in my usual place where I get my milk and made my way home. By the way, sand was plentiful as the wind had blown lots off the beach.
Now tonight I rung my friend up and asked if all was well with his replacement boiler. He told me that the boiler was working well and the plumbers had finished Wednesday afternoon, however he was waiting for the electrician to finish off the wiring. I asked him if he had a day when the man would call. He informed me that all the plumbers said was that the electrician would be there in a few days. I wonder if they have heard of co-ordination.
Finally I have had my renewal for my motor insurance. Last year it was around £150 this year it was for £186.56. When I rung up to pay, the man on the other end asked a few questions then told me that he had good news. My premium was reduced to £172.95. I thought it was very reasonable as my car is a G.T. Anyone who wishes to know the name of the insurer, just e-mail me and I will gladly give them the information. Now to the week end. More soon.

Autumn time

Today has been a lot better weather than the last few days. I decided to take the runner beans down, unfortunately could not put them in my garden waste bin as it is full. I have just left them where they were growing for now. Tomorrow, the bin men come and take away the recyclable bin and garden waste bin. I think that in a fortnight's time it will be the last time they take away garden waste until April next year. This may be O. K. for townies who have in general small gardens. Here in the country, we have larger gardens , still we will have to put up with doing without until next April.
I have saved runner bean seeds from my bed, three different sorts, Enorma, Painted Lady and Scarlet Emperor. I dried them with some broad beans that I also saved and took them to my next door neighbour. I also gave here a surprise, about 2lb or 1kg of tomatoes of different varieties and told her that if there was one particular type she liked, let me know and I will save some seeds and sow them next early spring. I did warn her though that they would not be as sweet as the summer ones as it is the sun that ripens the fruit and sweetens them. Still they will be nice. I then took a couple of spent tomato plants up out of the greenhouse. I should get a few more tomatoes, weather permitting for a couple of weeks or so. Now it is more about getting ready for winter, a time I am sad about because for the next 2 months, all we have to look forward to is dark days and cold weather. Still as my G. P. said to me some time ago, we have next year to look forward to. More soon.

Autumn time

Odd story

This is true, all I write is true and this happened I guess around 1971.
When I first went into business, I of course had no money and was told that to keep your head above water encourage youngsters during the winter. Incidentally, this was a cafe/snack bar. I turned it into a restaurant about 2 years later.
I was not the only business who catered for the youngsters, the local cinema did a similiar thing. I met the owner and she was nice. She used to have, in the winter months every 2 week days a different couple of films and on Sunday a different lot too. In other words youngsters had the oportunity to go to the cinema 4 nights a week to see different films. By the way, I had an advert with Pearl and Dean, so when that ad came on the youngsters used to be rowdy. As I told you I met the owner, I went to see her because I was informed that the projectionist did signs in his spare time. I asked her if I could see him. It was not really a cinema and to get to the projection room you climed up a ladder just as if you was going up in the loft of a house. Well he came to see me, several times actually. Once when he came he told me that he was going on holiday(always in the winter or spring never in the season)and a relief projectionist would take his place for a week. He said he would tell him to use my cafe.
As it happened he did come in and I used to go and sit with him and have a talk, he came from Lincoln. On the last day, he came in just to say cheerio and said that when he was here again he would come to see me.
I told you that I catered for the youngsters. I had a half day on a Wednesday. I closed at 4.00pm. The rest of the week it was 8.00am to 10.00pm.
The youngsters would come in early, some would then go to a youth club then be back to mine after 9.00pm. If they were going to the cinema, they would always ask me to stay open for them. I always refused as it was a long day as it was and the cinema did not finish until about 10.15pm.
The time came again for the relief man to be here, he was true to his word and his first port of call was to see me.
It was I think on a Tuesday the youngsters told me as usual they were going to the cinema and would I wait for them, as usual I said no. Well about 9.45pm the youngsters came rushing in laughing and giggling, something had happened. There is always one lad who is more talkative than the rest. He came up to me and told me what had happened. He said they were watching the film and it started to speed up. For a minute or two they thought it was supposed to happen but it went faster. One or two started to shout, the usherette came out to see what the noise was all about, saw the film was on fast forward, put the lights on soon after the safety curtains were closed. Then there came an announcement that the film show was over for the day and everybody should leave. He told me that eventually they decided to leave and when they got outside a police car was there. He said he did not know what had happened though.
I did not see the relief man the next day, but early on Thursday morning he came in and had his usual. then sat down. After a couple of minutes I went to sit with him and asked him what had happened and where had he been. He firstly told me that he had only just been released from custody and that he had to go and report to Lincoln Hospital. I asked him what had happened. He then explaind he wanted a pint of beer(closing time was 10.30pm)and he had seen the film before, he thought that if he just speeded it up a bit, he could just manage to finish in time to get a pint. He then told me that he almost certainly would lose his job, I agreed and that he would not see me again. I have never seen him since. I did not tell the youngsters though.
This happened really as a consequence to that. I decided to change the place from being a snack bar/cafe to a restaurant. This meant I had to get rid of the Juke Box. which I duly did. About 4 months later, I guess in June a large man came in had a good look round then remarked that I used to have a Juke Box. I told him that was true, he then asked me if I had any piped music, radio or T. V around. I told him I had not and I was not interested in playing music only serving meals. He then produced his I.D. He was a performing Rights Inspector. He told me that I had a permit but it was withdrawn, it was paid by the firm who installed the Juke Box. He then gave me the news that if I had even a T V with news only he would have demanded a payment. I thought what a devious man. He came from Lincoln and as far as I know never came again as he could see that the place was now a restaurant. Oh well more soon.

Guy Fawkes

Well last Friday, for those who may read this and are not British. You will probably not have heard of the custom of Guy Fawkes night. This is held on November 5th. each year to celebrate the capture of Guy Fawkes and his associates. I can only remember vaguely one, Thomas Catesby. They attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament. No comments such as you wish they had succeeded. This was ages ago in I think 1604.
Well this is celebrated by having a bonfire and lots of fireworks. Last Friday night it rained all evening so I did not expect to see any fireworks so I was not surprised. However on Saturday the weather was much better but still no fireworks or bonfires about. I know I live in the country but this is the first time ever I have never seen or heard anything different to an ordinary evening. I have lived here for over 17 years. I wonder if the times are changing and bonfires in one's garden and letting off fireworks is becoming a thing of the past. I do realise that there are many organised bonfire parties around, mind you not here.
It will be interesting to see if next year things are the same.
I have just rung my friend up this evening asking for an update on the fitting of a replacement boiler which is more efficient. He has this done free for him as his Mother is 85 and not in great health. Well to my surprise, he told me that they had been there today and started with the work, he was not sure just how long it would take but he guessed that by late Wednesday, they should be done. Remember mine, I know I did not have every new item as my timer pump, Yplan and thermostat was all in good working order, but they only took from Wednesday lunch till Thursday early afternoon. Of course this was not paid by the government so I presume that they had to work sharply as it was an agreed price. A lot less than my friend was informed his would cost. Just about half as much. Still that is the government grant system for you. As for my system, it seems to be working O.K. I will not know just how efficient it is for some time.
That is enought for now. More soon.

Funny

These last few days I keep remembering an episode when I was at the restaurant, I smile every time I think of it, so have decided to share it with those who have nothing better to do than read my blog.
This fellow businessman used to visit me often, we were sort of friends and I knew him quite well. He had only been in business for a couple of years so I gave him tips if he asked me. What he had was a fast food takeaway.
One day he asked me if I would do him a favour, I of couse said I would if I could. He then told me that he had a young boy who was 15 working for him at week ends and wanted to know if I could save him a three course lunch on a Saturday afternoon, it would be after 3.30pm. I told him that it would be fine. I actually knew the lad who worked for him, he was a nice lad but sexually active, he would occasionally tell me of some of his conquests. This then gives you an idea of the lad. I liked him though I thought him a very nice smart young man.
Well, everything went fine and for several weeks he came in, we would then have an hour or so talking in general.
One Saturday afternoon the lad came in and asked if he could see his boss. I walked away as I did not wish to know what he wished to ask him. Within a few moments his boss just said,"Is that all? Don't come and bother me with trifles like that". I could see that the lad was a little embarrassed, but turned to leave, he got as far as the door when his boss asked him. "By the way, who won the singles final". The reply was instant "Strap on cocky"the lad replied then left. I couldn't stop laughing. As you can guess it was the Ladies Wimbledon Final. Anyone who does not know who the person is, I will gladly reply to any e-mail enquiry.
Update, managed to dispose of Lloyds Banking Group shares, for a small profit. I think I was rather fortunate as the Banking Group is being hit by government charges. More soon.

Farming matters

Over the last few days the field opposite me has been a hive of activity.
First thing Monday morning equipment came and started to lift the sugar beet. I was amazed just how quickly this was done. When I was young on the Railway we had what we called Pick-ups. This was where we dropped wagons or picked them up from designated areas. Some farms had a small siding where we would drop a couple of 13ton wagons. Often these were for such as sugar beet. It would take a week or more to fill those wagons. This field was completed in less than 2 days.
Today I noticed that work was going on at a pace, I went out to see what was happening. Just then one tractor stopped at the field end. The man got out of his tractor and came over to see me. I recognised him as he would often acknowledge me. It turned out to be the farmer himself. I remarked that he had been very busy and that the beet looked very good. He told me that it was so. I told him that I had every intention to take a photo and put it on my blog as it was such a long time that I have seen such organisation in a field. I told him that the first tractor was ploughing, the second was harrowing(Breaking the soil down to a fine tilth) and I presumed that the third which was the one he was driving was setting(drilling). Yes he admitted that was the truth. I asked him what he was setting and he replied wheat. He then told me that he thought that he would manage to get over 30 tons an acre of sugar beet. I remarked how efficient the operation was, but I thought that perhaps he was a week or so later than the optimum time. He agreed that he wished that he could have been a week sooner but it was the contractor who had this machine that lifted and trimmed the beet, then a tractor and trailer would get close and the contraption would fill the trailer in seconds.
We went on to discuss several things for the next 30 minutes, I thoroughly enjoyed the time as it was several years since being involved in any sort of the farm life.
By now it was raining a little and getting dark. I told him that the photo would have to wait, he then told me that he should be here tomorrow to finish off the field. By the way, I guess the field is about 8 acres. Perhaps a photo tomorrow. By the way I was cold when I went indoors, guess I am not used to it. More soon.

Updates

First I give you the latest about my friend who was supposed to have his new gas boiler fitted this week. Unfortunately for him he was out at the time someone phoned and his Mother who is frail took the message. It seems that they will not be at his home tomorrow as the boiler has not arrived. The message was taken yesterday, the order for installation was taken about 3 weeks ago. Mind you, the whole saga is organised by Warmfront. I use the word advisedly as they were hopeless with me. I contacted them several times and asked if I qualified for a free top up regarding loft insulation. Each time I was told in no uncertain terms, I was not eligible.
It was not until I looked at the local paper my sister sent me that I saw the advert, rung them up and was informed that I DID qualify, the insulation was duly done, I also told my best pal who used their services. I only hope that my other friend gets the boiler fitted soon as it talks of getting colder. His Mother is not too good.
Now to the latest about my securities. I thought I would gamble a little on Lloyds Banking Group, I purchased several thousand and hoped that they would appreciate a few pence so that I could make a small profit. Nothing happened during the last week or so. Today there was the third quarter statement from Lloyds stating that the last quarter had been good and that the full year should be acceptable, or words tyo that effect. I then listened to an expert who was being interviewed on a financial T.V station and he said that he thought Lloyds was a good investment, not for dividends but for the long time as they seem to have got things in place. Anyway I bought another lot. Oh dear, they gradually, well sometimes not so gradual. went lower, I now have several thousand shares that are substantially lower than when I bought them today. I must say though, I do have faith in them, it only means I must hold them for much longer. Aviva, National Grid and Vodofone are all performing well, fingers crossed. Vodofone interim figures are out next week and Aviva has just given a bullish 3rd Quarter results, so here's hoping. Will as always keep all informed. By the way I am in profit on securities that I have sold a total of £2000 and a few pence. I have one share though that is not performing well at all. Their interim is later this month, if it is not good I will cut my losses and sell them. More soon.

Autumn

Well the week end has come and gone, I was outside on Saturday filling my green waste bin, we here have 3. One is green waste, another is for cardboard paper, some plastics and tins. The third is for kitchen waste and plastics that are not recycleable. To be honest I very rarely put out my kitchen waste bin, I use a supermarket bag, this is sufficient. The bins are emptied every fortnight. Unfortunately the green waste bin will soon not be collected again until March or April next year.
As with all European Countries, here we put back our clocks 1 hour, I noticed that in the USA the clocks had not been put back, I was wondering if they had ceased the operation and was going to ask my American friend when I heard someone say on CBC I think it was, that here in Europe had put our colcks back early this year and they were putting their clocks back this coming week end. As everybody knows here it falls on the last Saturday in October and this year was as late as it could be.
The weather has been a little kinder this late Autumn, so much so that I will probably have a taste of runner beans, I still have plenty of Tomatoes and outside the beetroot are still growing so I should get another few feeds.
I think my neighbour has returned from her holiday in Australia, I went out in the garden this morning and I noticed washing out on her line, I guess I will get to know all when I see her next, it will not be before Friday though.
By the way, my American friend has a blog, he is an accomplished photographer and his blog I think is called And the days dwindle down. It is an enlightening read, well worth a visit.
Tomorrow I may ring my friend to see if he has heard from the gas men about the fitting of a replacement boiler. Will keep all informed.

Driveway done

Yesterday I finally finished my driveway, I am pleased the way it looks. While I was out the neighbour came to see me with her paving brush, yes she had bought one. She is pleased with the way it cleans the moss out of the blocks but once again said it was so labour intensive. Still that is my driveway completed and should last until the spring next year.
Today, I lifted the potatoes out of my polytunnel, I will be honest and say that I was a little disappointed, there was an awful lot of potatoes that were so small. I did not realise how unwell I was, it is obvious to me that I had not given them sufficient water. I do now feel somewhat better. My consultant has given me some extra medication and for now it is helping me.
Anyway back to the potatoes, the ground was bone dry, so it was obvious to me that I had failed in looking after the potatoes, they were first early potatoes, Arran Pilot. They do keep well in the ground as a rule and are excellent boiling potatoes, but I only managed to get a few lbs of potatoes. I was lucky as my friend bought me a sack of potatoes ther last time he came. He will not be calling next week as hopefully he is having a new energy saving boiler fitted. Different to me though, I had to pay but had it fitted within about 3 weeks he has been waiting since the late winter. I hope for his sake they do get and do the job, they should start on Wednesday November 3rd. Will keep you informed of the progress, or lack of it. Now I will tomorrow, go ansd water the polytunnel so that when I set my produce, the ground will be well prepared. I guess that is it for today, just to say although it was dry and mild, it was just like night all day. A typical late November day. Tomorrow should be brighter . Let's hope so.
P.S.When I went outside the front door yesterday morning I noticed some rose cuttings, I immediately set them, let us hope at least one grows. They are cuttings from a beautiful yellow rose with an old fashioned scent. Wonderful. My neighbour confirmed that they were cuttings from the yellow rose. Here's hoping. More soon.

Mundane matters

Now back to the present.
Tuesday morning it was cold and damp, I went to get my pension, called into the local supermarket to get milk, bananas etc. then across to the newsagents to pick up my weekly T V paper. When I left the shop, it was only raining slightly so I decided to go for a hair cut about 3 miles away. the barber had been on holiday to Mexico for a fortnight so my hair certainly needed cutting. There were a few waiting so I was in there about 45 minutes. When it was my turn he told me about his holiday, apparently it was an all in holiday in a complex in Mexico. He told me that even to have a drink you never touched anything, when your glass was empty, it was automatically topped up. Nothing was spared, he told me that one day they had lobster with champagne, he did say though that the day trips were expensive, even so he told me that he spent over £5000 .00p As long as you enjoyed it I remarked, he said it was great and wanted to go again but not next year. I guess it was just too expensive and he had to save up. Anyway I duly paid, £3.80 which I guess is about the cheapest haircut in England.
I went then to the local butcher, I have not used him before, I went in and a woman was buying some cooked ham. When it was my turn I asked for 6 slices of cooked ham. It really looked great the woman who was serving me cut off all the excess fat before weighing it. I remarked that she must have known I could not eat much fat. She told me that she did this for each customer as her Mother was a diabetic. I said that I too was a diabetic. I then asked if she had any loins of pork, she wanted to know if I wished a joint, I said no I wanted boneless loin chops. What she said next surprised me. She looked at what was in the window display then told me that they were no good for me as they had too much fat on them. Away she went and after about 3 minutes came back with a butcher holding a complete loin over his shoulder. It was the leanest loin I have ever seen. I thought I had better order a few, so I asked for 12, while the butcher was cutting them I asked if they had any English Lambs liver, yes was the reply so I asked for 4 small slices. The pork loins were duly given to the woman who wrapped them and put them in a bag, with the ham and liver, I asked for 8 links of sausage, the best quality, I then asked if she had any best end of neck of Lamb(crown roast) the reply was we have no lamb until Thursday. I then asked if she had any sirloin steaks, again the reply was no, not until Thursday. I was surprised but she told me that until recently they had 2 deliveries a week Tuesday and Thursday, now it was only Thursday, so had to get used to ordering enough. I thanked her for looking after me, left then called at the local veg shop. It was the one I gave some plums to but they did not recognise me, thank goodness. I picked up a January King cabbage, a large one and asked the lady how much, 50p was the reply. I was delighted so off I went back home. I weighed the cabbage, it was 2kg just over 4 lb. Value for money I would say.
As for the ham, it is fantastic, the lambs liver was beautiful, the sausage is not bad at all. I had liver and sausage yesterday and today. Before anybody comments, liver is dreadful once it has been frozen, hence the 2 meals in 2 days. Tomorrow I will have roast ham. I have put all the pork in the deep freeze so will not be having them for some time but if they taste anything like they look, they will be nice. That's it for today. More soon.

Part 2.

So now my brother in law Jim was Farm Manager to the Belton Estate owned by Lord Brownlow. (Edward Cust)
Things were no different workwise as he had been in charge more or less from the day he started. It did mean though that they had to move into the village where the Farm House was situated. Next door lived the Canon of Grantham retired I should say, living in the samehouse was the Archbishop of Canterbury's Sister. The front door of the Farmhouse was at right angle to the next door.
It was something of a surprise when one day Jim noticed the Archbishop of Canterbury was next door. It appeared that he occasionally came up to the village to visit his Sister. He came incognito and had, as far as anybody could tell, no police protection. By the way. His name was I think Ronald Runcie. He was the Archbishop who performed the wedding ceremony at the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana.
One day my Sister and Jim were out in the back garden, the Archbishop was there and started a shortish conversation, stating how nice the roses were looking and the runner beans looked nice. Jim gave him some runner beans. When they went back indoors, my Mother who was staying there stated she had no intention of meeting him.
A couple of mornings later. my Mother in her dressing gown went to the front door to get the milk in, Youv'e guessed it as she was about to pick the milk up the next door opened. Archbishop was about to do the same, get the milk. He looked up to see my Mother. just said,"Good morning" My Mother replied and he then remarked, "Lovely day isn't it?" My Mother said yes and hurriedly closed the door. She then realised that she had been seen by the Archbishop of Canterbury in her dressing gown.
I was invited to Christmas every year and it was our job, Jim and I to feed the cattle, they did not take them into the sheds until early January. It was good, I enjoyed riding on the rear of a tractor, then on the trailer, slinging out lots of hay for the cattle to feed on. In January they were bought into the sheds for calving. The herd size was about 120. Every bull calf was castrated. They just put a ring round it's testicles and they rotted off. When the bullocks were about 18 months old, they were sold for slaughter. The female calves were kept. All they were interested was getting the herd larger, it was just a store cattle herd. If a calf died, Jim would milk the heifer and of course use it. I found out also, that for every calf born a subsidy of £100 was paid. I do not know if this was for bull calfs too.
I was there regular during the winter months and enjoyed most of it although it was hard work.
Now this incident happened during the spring when I had started to work so was not going over to see them.
According to them this is what happened. There was a a firm from Scandinavia, I think from Sweden, but not sure. Anyway they were over here testing the land to see if there was any oil available underground. They had been in this country for several months and around Lord Brownlow's grounds was to be the last check. According to Jim, they laid a long cable then fired a sort of charge and then the results were checked by computer. Remember the sensitive area? Well when the saw all these vehicles with foreign number plates phoned the Grantham Police and asked them to investigate. They duly did so and immediately noticed that the special tax discs that allowed them to stay in this country had run out. They were due to leave the country within the next week to go to the Carribean. This was postponed
The Police immediately impounded all of the vehicles. This included the managers cars as well as the trucks, about 8 vehicles in all. They were told to put them in the Farm yard and Jim was instructed to make sure the gate was locked. The outcome of it all was the firm had to pay all of the Road Tax Licence and also fines. The total was in excess of £2500. This was about 1984. They eventually left for the Carribean about 3 weeks late.
Back to more mundane matters tomorrow.

Something different

I think all that read my blog will know that I used to have a cafe/restaurant at the seaside. Definitely seasonal. In the summer months, 7 days a week from dawn till late. However during the winter months I did nothing. November , December ,January was completely free of work. October and February was only limited week end work so I had plenty of time on my hands.
I used to go to visit my Mother and Sisters in Grantham about once a week. When I first started to visit she worked at the Electricity Board. Much before it became a PLC. She was divorced and she was an office manager, she met this fellow who was also divorced, he was the stores manager. Well eventually they got married. A couple of years passed then my brother in law was asked by his father if he would like to be farm foreman on the Belton Estate. Lord Brownlow's home(Edward Cust). Belton House is where he lived with his wife Shirley. The farm was about 25000 acres, there was arable, store and woods which there were deer. Store cattle meant that all they were interested in was enlarging the herd. Any bull calfs which was about 50% of the calfs born, were castrated and when thet reached about 18 months were then sent to be slaughtered.
Anyway my brother in law agreed and soon the moved into a cottage, very near now to Belton Woods Golf Course. It was a nice south facing cottage and my sister soon got into the country ways. She had chickens and ducks too. Jim, that was my brother in laws name, was very good at meeting people and was very popular. It was not long before he was getting his potatoes from one farmer, my sister was given a small pig from another, he also went out with his men when a tree had been blown down, chain sawed the tree into usable logs, would then share the logs between the farmers and his father and themselves.
He actually met Diana Spencer before she became Princess. He was on his usual run around to see what was going on when he saw a small group of people. He went to investigate, certainly did not readily notice her. He was always diplomatic and just asked them if all was O. K. Diana asked him what he was doing on the estate. Jim replied that he might just be asking the same question about the group. She replied that that were here for a few days as guests. She also said. "By the way I like your snazzy hat." He then made a remark like I hope you have a nice time, by the way I am the farm foreman and left. Princes Diana had a sister who lived just a few miles away so she was up that way on more than one occasion. It was suggested that Prince Charles also came this way but we do not have proof.
t was during the time that he was foreman that I started to take my Mother out to their home, it was on my way back to the seaside. He suggested that sometimes I might like to go shooting, I said I might but to be honest was not keen. He did show me round the farm, it was huge. I think they had a 40 acre field, it was immense. They grew Oil Seed Rape, this was just becoming popular, a little Wheat but mostly Barley. Of course they had every contraption you would want. The corn drier was a godsend, he would dry the corn for the farmers around, this made him so popular as the drier the corn is the better price they get.
Well eventually his father retired. I think I will tell more tomorrow as it goes on a little.

Funny period

This week end was not the best weather wise. Saturday it rained and on Sunday, it was supposed to be mainly dry but on the coast we had intermittent rain showers, the ground never managed to get dry. This morning as it broke daylight the temperature dropped. I went into the garden to pick some carrots, they were muddy because of all the rain we have had, I have a couple of small stainless steel containers which I let get full of water so I can wash my veg. Well this morning, the first time this winter there was a thin film of ice forming. I guess that is it for the runner beans, I think the tomatoes in the greenhouse will be O K though.
I forgot to mention it but on Friday, my friend bought me another block paving cleaning tool. I could not use it over the week end so I thought I would explore the net for another car. I did so with a couple of web sites. I wrote to one and then phoned the site, but although they said they would get back to me, they didn't do so. However this morning I had a phone call and a nice guy spoke to me. I told him what car I wanted and he told me that he would find out when the car would be available, I also informed him that I wished to part exchange my car. A Peugeot 207 G. T. 150 HTP. Thuis was about 10.15am.
Several hours later he contacted me again. I summised that he had problems as he had been so long. The upshot of it all is that no car will be available until January next year. It seems that no cars are being produced, well he told me this, without a firm order. I guess that is the way the situation is at present. Anyway, he offered me a fair price for my old car. Although they do not take cars themselves they use agents who have contacts.
Later he sent me an e-mail with all details concerning the car, I have decided to purchase the car, when it is ready, sometime in January next year so I have tonight written a cheque for £350.00p as a commitment to purchase so now the car will be ordered. Now I must wait and see what happens next.
As to my cleaning of my driveway, well the remainder of it., I managed to get about 30 minutes of work done. This is plenty for me. Mind you, I can see the difference the new cleaner does. Will probably have to do it again early spring next year. Something different tomorrow.

Nothing boring I hope

Today, my friend came and finally fixed the gas fire, he fitted some aluminium backed tape to seal the flue, he also mended my clock and then fitted my new sign to the outside wall, I say new, I have had it since I moved here 17 years ago. My best friend who was here this week had a man who was very good with his hands make it. Unfortunately the man is no longer in this world.
Now an update on my securities(shares). I originally had 5 they were Severn Trent, United Utilities, both of these I have now sold. National Grid, Aviva and Vodafone. The proceeds of the two sales made a small profit, not enough to buy a car, but I am looking into the purchase of a new car.
I do not think I have mentioned it before, but for the last couple of times I have bought cars over the internet. Really this was sort of forced on me. When I wanted to purchase my last car, a Peugeot 207 G.T. I went to a Peugeot dealer. I had a Hyundai coupe 2 ltr. It cost me just over £16,000 20 months prior. I unfortunately had an operation and found it very hard to get in and out of the car as it was a sports type. Well I went to see this rep. A nice mature guy, I told him what I was after and he told me they did not have one in stock but the only thing he could tell me was that it went like"Shit off a shovel". He asked me what I had got to part exchange. I laugh now but was not happy at the time. He looked at the car and remarked what a lovely colour it was, then said something like."I can't even think to give you a price for that, you see we will not be able to sell it here and all we will do is sell it on. I will have to ask the boss." Out came the proprietor, took a cursory glance and said the allowance would be about £8500. Now bear in mind the car I wished to purchase was over £14,500 and I was going to have leather seats the cost was another £700. The rep was a little embarrassed and told me he would ring me later at my home and see what he could do. True to his word he did ring but with no improved offer. So I went online. I eventually got another £500 trade in although the company did not generally do that sort of thing. I also saved around another £1500 on the purchase. The only draw back is that the cars are what is know as pre registered. This means that I was the second owner although the mileage was delivery mileage only.
Well I am now looking to change my car, I will keep all informed as to what is happening. It will be interesting to see just how much I will save. More soon.

Quickie

After the last blog, I think it best just to write a quick note.
Yesterday, my friend from Derbyshire came to see me, his wife dropped him off and then came back later. We had a good old talk about old times. I did mention to him that as he is in his mid 70s I was surprised that he had bought a tourer caravan, also he had to buy anothe car as the one he had was really not powerful enough. I said to him that most people would think about getting rid of their tourer, not beginning to start touring at his age. He then reminded me that his wife is over 20 years younger than him. I said no more. We went out in the garden and I gave him some tomatoes, cooking apples and a bunch of grapes. His wife then arrived and time seemed to fly by, it was almost dark when they left. It was nice to see him again. His wife was enthralled by the grapes and tasted them, commenting on their sweetness and how juicy they were. I said that the longer they were left on the vine, the sweeter they became.
Today has been a very cold day for October, I think my friend and his wife will be making their way back home. Caravans are not the warmest places when it is cold. More soon.

Glass of sherry part 2

This is a long drawn out story, I hope I do not bore anyone.
Soon after my father died I thought it would be prudent to purchase a property close to where my Mother was living, with the thought of eventually moving back to be near to her. Things did not work out that way though as I never went back at all to live.
Anyway I bought this property and my Mother and I went down cleaning and modernising the property, the aim was to let it furnished. Well one day while we were down at the property, a man knocked on the front door I went to see who it was, he asked me what I was going to do with the property. I informed him that I would be letting the property furnished. He told me that his daughter would be interested and could he bring her to see me. Well eventually we agreed a price and so I had a tenant. All was well for about 18 months then one night during the season she informed me that she had been offered a council house so decided to leave but knew someone who wanted the property to rent. I told her I was not happy at letting anyone have the property without first interviewing them, she assured me that all would be well. Stupidly I agreed mainly because I could not get over there for about 3 months. For the first couple of monthe rent was paid O K then all of a sudden, nothing, I eventually had to take him to court ans he did not appear so formal posession was granted. I was out of pocket with rent arrears ans court costs of around £1000. This was in the early 80s. To cut a long story short, the first time I went to visit the property was in September, I had just had my dinner at my Mothers when there was a knock on the door. It was the gas man he asked me if I had anything to do with 33 the property I had. I told him I was the owner, he said he wanted to gain access to read the gas meter. I walked down with him and told him that I was owed a lot of money, there were several catalogue demands for money. He went in and the first thing he said to me was that he thought the windows were frosted glass, then he could see that it was just filth. He eventually looked round, read the meter and said something that surprised me. " This man is not going to get away with this, I will make sure that when we find him, and we will because he will need gas or electricity wherever he goes, you will be given his address." I naturally didn't expect to hear anymore but my Mother rang me up several weeks later with the address of the man. He was now living in Boston. I contacted my solicitor, I managed to get about £25 off him then nothing. I decided to leave the debt on the books just in case he ever won the pools. The Lottery was not then conceived. Well after the dabble into rental properties I decided to sell. It was on the market for several weeks, but to be honest the place was in such a state. It cost me £50 to have the place cleared of furniture and carpets. One day out of the blue, I was at my Mothers, I used to go once a week in the winter months, she told me that a couple from over ther road asked her if I would consider renting out the property to her daughter becuse she had to move out of her rented accommodation as there was a compulsory purchase on it. My Mother informed them that almost certainly I would not but if her daughter came to see me then I could tell her myself.
The next week the daughter came to see me, asked if she could view the property, said it was just what they wanted, 3 bedrooms and they would be happy to clean the place as long as they could rent it. I told her that I was not prepared to rent the property but I was perepared to let her and her husband purchase the property, I being the guarantor and the rent they would normally pay would be the mortgage. I told her to inform her husband that I would give a favourable fixed interest of 4% per annum. The rates around then were about 9%. I gave her my phone number and told her that if she agreed, I would then arrange for both parties to go to my solicitor and draw up the contract. Her husband readily agreed and so we went to my solicitor. He tried to talk me into getting a better deal, I informed him that I was satified and that the mortgage would commence 2 weeks from the signing of the contract. The 2 weeks was to give them time to make the property habitable. My solicitor did, however insist that before they signed he would want proof that they had taken out an insurance policy covering either party if one of them died.
When all was done, Joan and John were so greatful and could not stop grovelling, I told them that I was happy to get rid of the property.
Her parents, who incidentally were very very nice, quiet reserved people, came over the road to see my Mother, they asked if I would go over and see them. When my Mother told me, I knew what was going to happen. I said to my Mam, that I did not wish to go but she insisted that I did. So over the road we went, I knocked on the door. I thought they were going to kiss my feet. They invited us in and asked if we would have a glass od sherry with them. I was about to say no when my Mother nudged me, so I politely said yes please. For the second time a bottle of sherry was opened especially for us, once again a decent quality of sherry. The mother did the talking stating that they all would be eternally greatful as Joan and John would never ever be able to afford a property under normal circumstances. I just told both that I was only to happy to get the property off my hands and this way helped 2 people.
These two insisted in calling me Mr as Joan and John did, I said I prefered to be called by my christian name, but they thought I was a cut above them. This was nonsense of course.
The final outcome was that about 3 years later Joan's husband John who was along distance lorry driver collapsed and died in one of the service stations. Her solicitor told her that although she had the money from the insurance, he suggested that she put the money in a Building Society and get more interest than what she was being charged. She told me that she sent the solicitor away with a flea in his ear as I had been goodness itself to her.
A few weeks later she was diagnosed with angina and sold the property to live with here eldest daughter. Sorry if it has been a bore.

Glass of sherry part 1.

For the next two blogs, I will tell you how I was given a glass of sherry.
My parents lived in the same town as me but as my father was about to retire, they decided to return to their home town. Within a week he unfortunately had died, so sudden it was but it was the way for him to go, however my mother was devastated. Well about a month after he died she asked me if I could go to the local bank in my town and get my late fathers money out of the bank. I of course told her I would go to the bank and see what I could do.
I duly made an appointment to see the Bank Manager, on the appointed day I arrived and the Manager met me and invited me into his office. The next thing startled me, he said,"At last we meet, I have been waiting for so long to meet you, I have heard so much about you." Seeing I was at a loss he then informed me that his son worked for me and had often talked about the place and things that happened. I then informed him that his son only told me that he worked in a bank, not that he was the Manager. He then asked me to call him Harold, I naturally told him to call me by my christian name. He then enquired what I wished to see him about. I informed him that my late father had an account with his bank, a sum of about £95. I then asked him if I could withdraw the sum for my mother. He told me that this was not the usual way to do it but as he more or less knew me through his son said that he would arrange it there and then. He went to the door asked someone to come in. I gave him the passbook and he left. Harold then said to me,"Let's have a glass of sherry." I was surprised but agreed, he went to his safe, unlocked it and bought out a bottle of sherry. I can assure you it was not the cheap stuff, also it was unopened. He broke the seal and proceeded to get two glasses and pour a generous portion to both glasses. We passed the next 10 minutes or so talking pleasantries, eventually the man who had the passbook knocked on the door, was invited in and handed the book and contents to me. He then left and Harold and I spent a further few minutes together before I made my excuse and left, never to go into that bank again. I still smile when I think of it. Most people who are offered a glass of sherry are asking for a loan of large proportions, here was I asking to close an account. I can assure you that this was true. I have, today my best friend here for a few days with his wife. I only today told him the story. He found it incredible. The next time I was offered a glass of sherry was totally different. It is a long story which I hope to tell tomorrow.