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.
Tuesday 30 November 2010
Monday 29 November 2010
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.
Thursday 25 November 2010
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.
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.
Tuesday 23 November 2010
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.
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.
Thursday 18 November 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday 17 November 2010
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.
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.
Tuesday 16 November 2010
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.
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.
Friday 12 November 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday 10 November 2010
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.
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.
Tuesday 9 November 2010
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.
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.
Monday 8 November 2010
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.
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.
Friday 5 November 2010
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.
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.
Wednesday 3 November 2010
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.
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.
Tuesday 2 November 2010
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.
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.
Monday 1 November 2010
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.
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.
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