Irregular.

Last Monday morning I went to have my haircut and noticed at the local Village on my way to Alford the petrol price was down to £117.9p. per litre. This is as cheap it has been in ages, anyway I decided to fill up. According to the hairdresser she has 3 filling stations so has a larger pulling power.
 Later that day I had to go to the Opticians and she told me there was no need to keep putting drops in my eye. It was normal practice to only put drops in for 1 month. She also told me that they had made a good job of my eye and although I no longer needed glasses for distance I would need them for reading. I also told her I needed them for computer work so she told me she would get glasses that for reading I would read the print a little further away and for computer work I would get a little closer. Yesterday I had confirmation that the spectacles were ready but I will go and pick them up on Friday as I have a Surgery appointment that morning.
 Yesterday I had to ring up for more LPG but when I rung there was a recorded message informing me that the price had gone up £3 a 47kg. bottle. This morning they delivered the 2 bottles. I also noticed that Calor had taken away the 2 bottles that had been at the front of my drive, I got the men when they delivered about a month ago. Anyway I rung up Calor and told them that the remaining empty 2 bottles were ready to be picked up.
 This morning I have been baking about 42 mince pies mainly to give away. I bought the mincemeat from Lidl adding some brandy but without any additions the mincemeat is good value for money.
 I roughly cleaned the car, the first time in ages and noticed that some unkind soul had managed to put a small mark on my car. As it is metallic paint I don't know how I can make it invisible. This is why for the last many years I have had a solid paint car. However at my time of life it is not worth worrying about it.
 I have bought the lad from next door a game that he wants but I have made the parcel so that he has no idea as to what is in it. I have also bought his companion who is much more affected by learning difficulties a couple of presents, I have put on it from Santa so the two will have pleasure opening them on Christmas Day.
 From now I will only post occasionally as I am running out of ideas. I have done well over 1000 posts far more than I had expected to do. More occasionally.

Dentist

Last Friday I went to the dentist having booked an appointment a few days before. I did notice that the seating arrangements had been altered also saw a notice that Bupa were withdrawing their support. As they had only been supporting for less than a year I didn't bother to read the notice.
 I had been notified that the Dentist I had seen was leaving so on entering her consulting room I told her I was sad to learn that she was leaving. She told me it was her last day at the Practice so I asked her where she was going and she told me North. I then suggested that she was not going abroad meaning Scotland, My Sister lives in Scotland and I always say she lives abroad. She then let me know she was going to Newcastle. I immediately told her that the first thing she would notice was that the ability to shop for Newcastle is known for having a good selection of shops. She told me that she would go on a shopping spree.
 She asked me what was wrong and I told her that a piece of tooth had broken from one of my two remaining teeth. On having a look asked me if I would like her to fill it for me which I said yes.
 On completion we talked a little and I wished her every happiness saying that I would miss her for she had done so much for me. Turning to her assistant I told her that I would see her in late March. She looked at me then let me know that the Practise would close in February, adding that most of the assistants had found alternative work.
 I had a pleasant surprise from the dentist, she told me that no charge would be made so I asked her why? The answer is very personal but I left and went back to reception and saw a lass who I had got to know saying to her that I had heard the bad news that the Practise was closing. She told me that she had found a position in Louth ans suggested I get registered as soon as I could with a new Dental Practise which I have done.
 On Monday I had notification that the Dental Practise was closing in early February next year. According to the T.V. over 7000 are registered and there is no other Dental Practise in the immediate area.
 It seems to be that it is becoming increasingly hard to get an appointment with a G.P now a Dental appointment. All I can think of is that thank goodness my time on this earth is getting shorter by the day. More soon.

Lots happening

First I must inform all who read my blog that I am beginning to lose the ability to speak, when I say this I must explain, this I find hard when talking to get my words out and sometimes I get the words mixed up but I am capable of writing them down.
 My mate and his Partner picked me up to take me to Outpatients at Boston which I thank them very much for I do appreciate them both very  much.
 As I had an old Nokia mobile which the batteries were getting worn out I asked my mate to get me another mobile. I had no need to worry about the quality and price for BOTH are keen on price. Anyway he bought me one and spent a couple of minutes with me explaining how to use it when they came to pick me up. What he omitted to tell me was that you had to hold the button to turn it on for about 10 seconds so that eventually when I had finished my Outpatients I could not get the mobile to turn on so I went to reception and after a couple of minutes the receptionist managed to get it turned on. My mate had it worked out to a tee, he told me that when I was ready to be picked up give him a ring for about 3 rings then turn off and when he was about 5 minutes from the Hospital he would repeat the process.
 Back to the Outpatients, first I had to self register and was informed to go to the main waiting area. In the waiting area there was a a couple of screens with notifications and soon I saw my name instructing me to go to the Eye department so off I went not exactly knowing where I was to go but well down the corridor a Nurse asked me for my name and asked me if I had registered which I told her I had. She soon found my name and told me to take a seat in the waiting area if I could find one. Every seat was taken but I presume a young lass immediately got up n]and offered me her seat which I refused but she insisted so I sat down. I was pleased because the wait was long. After I had been waiting some 35 minutes a Nurse shouted and asked if anyone had been waiting for more than 45 minutes.. A man walked up and heard him say that the Lady  he accompanied had been waiting for about 75 minutes. Th4e Nurse immediately checked her list found that he was correct and informed him that the Lady would be next.
 Eventually I was called in to see a Nurse for an eye test just to see if I could see letters without my glasses then it was wait for another Nurse who put drops in my eyes checked them and asked several questions then it was again wait. I eventually called to see what I presumed was a Nurse Practitioner but she was a Sister. She put drops which she told me would sting which they did but only for a minute or so, examined my eyes with a strong light then told me that my left eye was borderline so we agreed that we should leave it for now. If I had insisted I think I could have had the left eye operated on but to be honest it is having to ask someone to take me to Hospital. If it was straight forward it would not be bad but not knowing just how long you would be there is a bind. The day of the operation there are 2 appointments, one is 8.00.am. and the other is Noon, I was fortunate to be first and I was discharged from the Day care unit sometime after 3. 15.pm. but the operation took about 20 minutes but if you say 15 minutes for each patient that would mean if I was last the discharge time would be well after 4.30.pm.
 Anyway the Sister on Outpatients after doing the tests informed me that in about 2 weeks I should make an appointment with my Optometrist and gave me a letter to give to her. I immediately let her know that I would still be taking my eye drops but she told me that I would not so I told her that I was told to take eye drops for 2 months, all she said was 1 month, I then told her that the day care had given me 2 bottles of eye drops and she told me that if I was likely to run out order in good time another bottle so I asked her why they had given me 2 months supply. All she could say was that she thought it was in case I ran out.
 I decided not to do what she told me so I went down to the Opticians explained what had happened and the male receptionist has booked me in for an eye test on December 10th. I will still be putting props in my eye until the day of the eye test. As the appointment is for 1.30.pm. I will put drops in my eye early in the morning and see what she says. Mind you I have great difficulty in getting the drops in my eye but on ordering another bottle I should have enough.
 Talking of ordering, a week last Monday I made an appointment for my 3 monthly blood test for the Hospital at the same time I ordered some more eye drops and also put in my repeat prescription. As nothing had happened I decided to ring up Lloyds Chemist as to if they had a prescription for me. She went to check and when I asked her if they would be delivered the same day she informed me that they did not do a repeat delivery. I told her that I had not received anything at all and halfway through the conversation my old Nokia mobile packed in. I was pleased because I had when I first went to Boston a warning that the batteries were low although I had charged the batteries up completely. They must have got the message for a foreign Lady came and rung the doorbell, within seconds rung it again then hammered on my door and started to look for another entry. I was only some 20 seconds in getting to the door she was blunt and asked me to sign then left but at least I have my medication for another month. Thus endeth the long epistle. More I hope soon.

Problem.

These last 2 or so weeks I have been without one of my vital medications that prevent my Colitis from flaring up. I went to see the Pharmacist last week and pointed out that on my repeat prescriptions it stated that in the event of not getting the medication a suitable medication should be given. This morning I called and saw the Lass there and immediately she saw me she let me know that last evening there was a delivery of a replacement so I hope that this will keep my Colitis in check.
 The other day I had notification from the Hospital informing me that an appointment had been made for me to attend Outpatients but also it gave me instructions not to drive as drops could be given, also I would see several doctors and it could last for 3 hours. I was not best pleased for I had hoped that I would drive to the appointment myself. Anyway I sent an email to my mate and his Partner asking them if once again they would take me to Boston. To be honest his Partner has been very good to me thinking of my well being. Last Monday after my eye operation she suggested to her partner as they were travelling to Mablethorpe and going past my place they could ask if I wished them to bring anything for me. I was naturally ve4ry happy to accept the offer and asked them to bring for me some milk. Even prior to that she made me feel more than welcome when I went to Skegness to have my eyes inspected prior to having my Cataract removed. I could not fault her at all. This is addition to them getting gradually things sorted out for they are eventually going to consolidate by moving into one property but naturally over the years they have accrued many of items that are duplicated which of course means downsizing but she still thought of me and that happens rarely these days.
 My mate is still hogging the car which I can understand for it is far more up to date than my car and my car is only just over 2 years old. I guess when they come to pick me up he will drive but I will be pleased to see them BOTH. That is of course my Colitis is under check. More soon.

Connection.

As mentioned before I was due to change Internet Provider on the same day I was due to go to hospital for my cataract operation so I went Online early Friday only to find that my previous Provider had disconnected me so I changed routers and connections and waited for 15 minutes which the new Provider had instructed. I guess it was nearer 30 minutes when I checked to see that the green lights were on but nothing was happening so I turned off the computer. I checked a couple of times later but found the same result. My mate with his Partner called to pick me up so I asked him to double check to see that I had connected the wires correctly and he told me I had, then he asked where the router was. Immediately he informed me that they hadn't activated the Internet yet so off we went to Hospital.
 He told me what to expect and where to go for his late Mother had been through the same routine, it certainly helped me. I booked in and was told to take a seat in the waiting area. No sooner was I sat down when I was called in to some checks, a Lady next to me told her carer that it was funny for I had only just arrived and I was being seen to.
 The initial check took about 10 minutes and I went out and the Lady told me that I must be first on the list for I had been seen straight away. I told her that I was a little early and we got talking so the time went quickly.
 A little later the trolly came round with tea or coffee which was a lovely surprise. In total there were 6 waiting for the cataract operation. To be honest we were treated like Royalty with undivided attention.
 Eventually after a few visits with the |Nurse the Surgeon came and I was taken to see him. He held out his hand to greet me and had a quick look at my eye so I asked him where I was on the waiting list and he confirmed that I was  first. That was about 1.00.pm. but it was just after 2.00.pm. when I was wheeled down to the Operating Theatre, in the annex next to the Theatre I was prepared and eventually wheeled in, the procedure took about 20 minutes and then I was taken back to the waiting area and the Lady next to me said to me that I was not gone long although it did seem to me it took a while.
 After sitting down for about 10 minutes an assistant came to ask whether I would like tea or coffee. I told her coffee would do nicely. Almost immediately she came back with a tray with hot water a sachet of coffee  together with milk and sugar. There was also a couple of rich tea biscuits all went down well.
 I was taken aback by what happened next, well I say next but it would have been some 30 minutes later, the Nurse who had shown such kindness and dedication went to fetch me and told me she would discharge me. She gave me some drops which she told me to take  4 times a day for the next 2 months but if I ran out I should get a new bottle from my Surgery. She also told me to keep my eye patch on for at least 24 hours. She also asked how I would get home so I told her my friend would pick me up. With that she asked how and I told her I would use my mobile phone so she offered to contact him if I wished but I did decline the offer and with that I was on my way and I guess it was about 3.15.pm.
 Eventually I got home and just before 5.00.pm. I went to see if my Internet was on, it wasn't for the ethernet light showed red. I switched off the router, changed the filter and waited for 5 minutes then turned on the router again. I had managed to get the red light removed but the ethernet connection was flashing but I did nothing that night.
 The next morning I contacted my new Provider and explained what had happened, after asking me to check my  connections he then did some checks his end, eventually informing me that he would send an engineer out on Monday between 8.00.am and 1.00.pm. I waited in vain for nobody came. I fung up later and informed the helpline what had happened, they were full of apologies and told me there would definitely be someone here to see me the next day.
 An engineer contacted me just after 10.00.am. letting me know that he would be at mine within 10 minutes. He duly arrived and immediately told me that he was out of his area so it took him a little while to find where everything was.
 I won't go into details but he was at mine for well over 2 hours not actually at my property but working to get me connected. He did tell me that I did not have a good line to mine. I did notice that he was up the pole outside near to where I live he also told me he had been to the exchange but finally after 5 days I was once again Online. More soon.

Things

I have managed to have enough potatoes to last me until this month and as potatoes are expensive this year I am satisfied. With the hot weather not suiting the runner beans I have been surprised that the warmer weather in October has meant that once again I have managed to eat fresh runner beans into November. I guess together with the potatoes I will have enough for the next 3 or 4 days. Regarding potatoes when I bought the new freezer the lad came with me and I asked him to pick a 25 kg. of potatoes and I didn't take particular notice but when I went to the checkout one senior assistant informed me that the bag was not 25 kgs. but half a bag so I was charged I think £6,95p. but when we got home I did notice that it was a full bag so I have a bag for that price.
 My Best Pal called yesterday, his last visit for the year, his site closes now until early March next year. He told me amongst other things that he had bought a 25 kg. bag of potatoes for £10 from Farmer Brown  and they were taking a bag home with them for it was the cheapest they had found. I then told him about my bag of potatoes so I guess I had a good deal.
 Tomorrow I have a busy day, first I am switching my broadband and secondly I have to go to Boston to have a cataract removed from my eye. It is sods law that both happen on the same day so I don't know how things will work out for my mate is travelling up from Skegness to take me to boston, I have to be there for Noon so it means we will leave about 11.00.am. to be there in good time There is always a risk attached to this minor procedure but if I do not have it done I will gradually lose my sight but before that I would also lose my driving licence and as I live in the country it is vital that I am able to drive. I got my mate to take me because of the reliability of TSAL which has a dreadful reputation. When I went for the pre-op medical the Nurse informed me that the service was not good and I have read and also heard on T.V many patients arrive late for their appointments and are left stranded because they do not come and pick them up after their appointment so I offed to pay my mate to pick me up from my home and take me there also bring me back home which should be about 4 hours later. He knows what happens because his late Mother went through the same procedure some years ago. Anyway I will be in safe hands. Originally the next door neighbour told me he would take me to Hospital but to be honest I never felt comfortable but once I arranged for my mate to take me I was happy.
 Let us hope all goes according to plan. More soon.

 

Continuation

With the result of the Fridge/Freezer problem I decide to write to ELDC asking for a suitable reply to my request for refusing to take anything that is higher than 6'. I also let them know that I was  over 80 a perfect resident with recycling and domestic refuse. I informed them that I only had a shopping bag full every 2 weeks.
 Naturally I got the usual response but to be honest it was almost immediate. The explanation was that they limited the size due to the wagon but I had already suggested that the fridge/freezer was only 2' wide. He carried on stating that it was a driver only to keep the costs down and finally said he could not help me. He did give me a list of where I could take the old fridge/freezer but I did mention when I wrote to ELDC reminding them that I was over 80 years old. I was not happy so I sent a reply adding that I was on 8 different medications and if a youngish man was unable to take a 6'6" fridge/freezer away how was I expected to take it away myself. My final retort was that they with the attitude was encouraging fly tipping, adding that with luck he would be old one day and I hoped he would be treated more favourably than I had been treated.
 Last Monday John Lewis delivered my new fridge/freezer and the two men couldn't have been nicer. It was raining but the two bought the item on the driveway took all the packaging off and placed in the lorry. Then they bought the fridge/freezer inside and asked me where it was going. I showed them where and immediately the senior man placed in situ checked to see if it was level and then explained all that I needed to know, he even plugged it in but told me not to switch it on for 4 hours to let the fluid settle. I had the lad a couple of days prior to them calling lifted the old one just outside and I mentioned to the two men that it was a pity they didn't take the old machine away. The one in charge told me they in fact did but I let them know that with this deal it was not possible to take the old one away. I then let them know how ELDC had been and they were disgusted. With that the other guy got his sack truck and did no more started to lift and shift the old fridge/freezer towards the lorry, the senior man asked me if it was fine because they charged £20 for removal of any appliance, naturally I told him it was fine. He then told me that as soon as he got in his cab he would contact Head Office and they would immediately contact me for payment. This happened a few minutes later I had a call from Head office and I paid so I was relieved to see the old thing go.
 I did write to let them know that I had first class service from John Lewis, surprisingly enough they replied and thanked me for the kind words I had written and the time I had taken  but I only told them the truth. From now on I will not be so environmentally careful for I don't think that ELDC deserve the care I have used up to now. More soon.

Good and Bad

We were notified about a week ago that last wednesday we would have an interruption to our electricity supply for the purpose of tree trimming. It was proposed that this would take much of the day. however the day before the proposed interruption we had notification that it had been cancelled due to  County Highways restrictions but last Friday we had a power cut of about an hour.
 Now to the bad news, last Tuesday my Fridge/freezer suddenly ceased working so I immediately went Online to find a suitable replacement but the one I desired was not readily available. Currys which I prefer for they take away the old appliance for a fee did not have the model in stock and noted that it would not be available until mid November. I did find one Company that had it in stock but the earliest I could get it was this Monday some 6 days away. Typical also is that the weather was like July not mid October with the temperature being in the mid 20s c.
 I decided to go to the local place in Mablethorpe but on rushing I missed the cup holder where I usually put the keys to my home only to find that they had disappeared.
 The lad from next door heard me and came round, he looked all over but like me couldn't find the keys so he went and fetched his Carer she  could find nothing so she went to see her Partner and as she was going I asked her to see if a locksmith would come out for I could not get in my home.
 Her Partner came round and suggested that the house key had fallen behind the hand brake so he went back and found some special tools ans undid the nuts and asked the lad to see if he could feel anything. He didn't say anything but after a minute or so retrieved my house keys. Immediately told him to go and tell his Carer that we had the keys so we didn't need a locksmith, he was just in time.
 I then told the lad I was going to Mablethorpe to get the cheapest freezer for everything was defrosting rapidly. He offered to go with me, thank goodness he did. On arriving we went to look at deep freezers and the cheapest was £110 so I bought it and asked the salesman if it could be delivered later that day but he told me that it would be the next afternoon before it could be delivered, so he asked me what car I had and when I told him he let me know that almost certainly it would fit into the rear of the car which it did. Of course there is a delay before you can switch on the appliance due to the gas which has to settle, in this case it was only 2 hours. We got it back and with the lad's help managed to get the packages removed and upright so I had to wait for a couple of hours. As for the contents of the fridge compartment I could do nothing so I did lose a few items over the coming days. It's sods law even the nighttime temperatures were far higher than the normal daytime temperatures but I had to accept this. The Company that would supply me is John Lewis but it stated that with this product it they were not able to remove the old appliance, that didn't bother me too much for ELDC ha a policy of offering to take up to 4 items for a one off fee of £25. When I went Online to fill in the form I noticed that the maximum height of the Fridge/freezers was 6' and mine was 6' 6" so I did no more Online and rung up the Council. I eventually got through to a nice young Lady who when I told her of my predicament seemed surprised but asked me to hold on while she sought some answers. After a couple of minutes she came back and asked me to keep holding for  she was trying to get some information. A minutes or so later she came back with the news that I was correct and the restrictions  and that there was nothing she could do for me. More soon.

Card

I may have said that I have my Pension put directly into my Bank so I used my debit card for the first time using my 4 digit number, well that is what I intended to do when I had a winter check for my car. As I had done less than 3000 miles in 2 years I decided that I didn't need a complete service.
 When I put what I thought was the 4 digit number I was advised that the number was incorrect. I paid by cash and went back home and immediately went Online to my Bank, managed to find the link and followed the instructions. I was surprised that I did it and received the confirmation that my request for a different 4 digit pin number had been successful but I had to wait for about 5 days for the new pin number to arrive. It did in about 4 days and immediately noticed that there was a note stating that before I could use the card it had to be unlocked at either a Link or my Bank hole in the wall.
 Earlier my best Pal had rung up saying he would be here later that day so I thought before he got out of his car he could take me to the hole in the wall to get this sorted. He had used the system before, I had never used the system at all. I had my debit card for several years but only used it Online or by phone to pay for fuel.
 He duly arrived and before he turned off his motor I asked him if he would take my 3 miles to the cash machine. HE naturally agreed and I explained to him as we were going what I had to do.
 We arrived at the new Co-op in Sutton-on -Sea only to find it was not one of the 2 machines that I must use. We were about to leave when this Lady came out of the shop and immediately told us of the problem she had using that machine. The machine faces West and the sun was shining so that you had great difficulty reading it and went on to say that it had asked her if she wanted more time to get her business done. I then told her that this particular machine was not the one that I needed so I would go to the Post Office where there was one. Immediately she told us that the machine was out of action and the Post Office was closed. Fraud was the main cause and told us all about it. she was very talkative but also very informative too. She went on to say that there was another cash machine outside the Spar Shop but they charged £1.50.p. for each transaction. I then told her that we would go to Mablethorpe and use the machine there. She went on to tell us that the Bank was closing but the sooner the better for a Woman she knows does some cleaning there at night and the other night when she went in there was money all over the place. She told us that her friend phoned up and told them to send somebody round to put the money in a safe place.
 By now I told her we must make tracks and so we went on to Mablethorpe, one at the machine the first thing it prompted was to insert the card as soon  as I did this the card disappeared. I looked at my Pal and he told me I would eventually get my card back. We then followed the  instructions in fact they were quite easy but with the numbers being used so frequently they were not all that clear.
 Eventually I did get my card back so I said to my Pal I would try to get a little cash out to make sure all was well. I once more inserted my card, it disappeared so I thought that is normal I then requested £20 with a receipt and soon I received the £20 but had to wait about 30 seconds for the receipt. That made me feel a lot better for yesterday I had troubles which I will relate soon. More soon.

Anglian Water

Last Monday morning the representative fro Anglian Water arrived, he was a youngish Man and I asked him where he lived. He told me the other side of Holbeach which I guess is some 50 miles away.
 Anyway he sat down and asked me several questions about my water usage, put the answers in the lap top he had, when the answers had come out he told me that I used little water and was very efficient, to be honest I already knew this.
 HE then went out to his van and bought a few free things in, one was a device to put in my toilet tank. It seemed to consist of a piece of paper but he told me it was a bag which would swell up and would mean I would use less water for each flush of the toilet. He also gave me a different shower head which he did attach for me. All in all I didn't feel too impressed for I had expected a fitting of my toilet system to have a dual flush fitted but that would not happen.
 Anyway he left and I asked him where he had to go next. The reply surprised me for he told me his next call was Horncastle, I guess some 30 miles away. This meant he had travelled at least 80 miles that morning. I wished him well and he went on his way.
 The next morning I checked my inbox and found I had a message from Anglian Water, they gave a summary of the day before meeting and gave the details. To me it was a basic reply stating that to save water I should have water butts. I decided to reply and stated that I was  little disappointed at their response to my requests stating that I had severe prostate problems and used to toilet many times a day and with the block they put in my cistern I would still use the same amount of water if it was solids or liquids. Adding that the young man was very nice and helpful. What happened next was a pleasant surprise.
 The next morning after sending a reply to Anglian Water I had a phone call fro a nice Lady, she immediately informed me that they had received my email so I let her know how sad I was that all I received was a bag which the Plumber inserted into the cistern and that as I used the toilet many times a day I would use the same amount of water whether it was for liquids or solids.
 She said she understood but they did not if a dual system at all and all they provided was this bag which swelled up. She then added that she had looked at my water usage and it was excellent adding that someone living in a property like mine she would expect a person to use at least 4 or 5  times as much.
 I informed her that I also had solar panels fitted and used the washing machine only when I had  a complete full load and that I had done my washing earlier for the sun was shining, adding that I was environment conscious and used the electricity sparingly.
 I then told her what my monthly charge for electricity was and she told me she wished hers monthly charge was anything like mine.
 She talked for a further few minutes and finally she asked me if I would like to be put a a Priority List for bottled water if there was a break in the water supply adding that I would be one of the first to have bottled water delivered to me. I told her that I was be happy to accept her offer,
 We parted on very good terms she added that the conversation would be pinned to my account should anything else come up.
 Over the last few days I have been a little under the weather, it doesn't help either for the Surgery to contact me several times, the outcome is I have been summoned to appear today at the surgery for further blood tests. More soon.

To continue

I don't know if I have given an update for my eyes, anyway I went to boston Pilgrim Hospital and although it was not as easy as I would have liked eventually I was seen by a lovely Nurse and the whole process took about 45 minutes. So now I will wait for an appointment to have a cataract removed from my eye.
 With the Post Office part closed I have decided to have my State Pension put straight into my Bank. It was easy for I had received a letter stating that they preferred to have my Pension put straight into my Bank. As it was a freephone number I rang up and the Lady on the other end then sorted it all out for me but added that I would have to collect my next weeks Pension from the Post Office as the money would not be in my Bank until the week after. She then told me that I should ask for a closure form when I picked up my money adding that I did nothing until I checked to see the money had in fact gone straight into my Bank.
 As I had checked and the money had been transferred I filled in the closure form and took it to Mablethorpe Post Office which is in the Co-op. There was a large queue but I thought that this would be the last time I would have to use it for some time.
 It was my turn eventually but when I went to the counter the Lass told me that she was a trainee so she could not help but told me to wait to see the Lady in the next window. Once she was free I went to give her the closure form, immediately she handed it back saying that it must be filled in black ink. I immediately told her that if she thought that I would buy a black ink pen she had another think coming, What she said next was helpful she offered me a black pen and told me that I could fill it in at a desk nearby adding that if they were not busy she would have filled it in for me. She then let me know that once I had filled in the form bring it straight back and not to queue again.
 Once I had filled the form I took it back and she checked it and asked if I had my card with me which I told her I had she then asked me to put the card in and put my 4 digit number to check my account was empty which it was. She then asked me for my card which she told me would be destroyed and gave me a signed receipt to confirm the closure of my account. So that was that.
 I originally had an appointment for Anglia Water to call but the day before they were due I had a phone call informing me that due to unforeseen circumstances the appointment had to be cancelled and a new appointment was made for October. Last Friday I had another call saying that they had a cancellation so they could call on me the following Monday which was a couple of days ago. Will give you the result soon.

Update.

I went to have my appointment for Pre Op. medical. I didn't know exactly where it was but all I knew it was in the area of the Main Hospital.
 I arrived in good time, just as well for it took me ages to find a space to park the car, it was too tiny for most to squeeze in but I managed it. On getting out I noticed an elderly Man walking so I asked him where the eye department was, he told me to follow him for he was going that way. He also told me that today there were no parking charges for the main barrier was open. As we walked he told me that the first thing I had to do was log in but that was not as bad as it seemed for at the machine was a helper who told me what to do. After I had logged in  she then told me to go to the large waiting room and added that I would be on T.V so I should keep an eye on the screen.
 I went into the large waiting room, I guess there were about 100 patients waiting for their appointments, some were walking to the left and others to the right. I wondered which way I should go when eventually my name appeared on the screen, but as I was about 10 minutes early I just watched others go.
 After about 15 minutes, which meant less than 10 minutes after my appointment time I thought among the noise my name and a Nurse was standing there. I went over and she confirmed that she had called my name. She led me towards the exit but turned left and made her way to her consulting room. She first told me that she would ask several questions but I first handed her a copy of my current prescriptions that I was taking. She asked me if she could keep the copy which I told her she was welcome.
 After the questions was a B.P check which she told me was fine, this surprised me but I was happy, she then noticed I was a diabetic so checked my blood sugar which was acceptable. it was less than 10 and she told me that they prefered it to be less than 12. Considering that I had my midday meal and done no work since I was satisfied. I then asked her where she came from. A place called Transylvania a part of Romania to which I then asked her if she would like to make her life here. She was honest and told me that she missed home, which I told her I could understand but she added that it was the climate here for it was damp in the Winter here but home it was cold, snowy but the atmosphere was relatively dry. She then told me that her 2 children was at school here so I asked her if they liked it here, she told me they loved it and spoke better English with no accent at all adding that her Husband was a Surgeon at Pilgrim Hospital in Boston.
 Then it was on to the eye photographs which she commented me on taking the instructions correctly, adding that it was nice not to take several shots because the eye had moved slightly. Then it was taking photos with my spectacles on this was to measure the prescription of the glasses.
 The final thing was to explain how the operation worked and the procedure I was to follow. Firstly she tole me that the main objective was only to improve my distance in sight. After the operation which took about 20 minutes I would be taken to a recovery room but as the Surgeon would be performing several operations he would not come out and inspect the outcome until he had finished his morning surgery. I would probably be invited to go to have the operation either arriving at 7.30.am. or 11.30.am. but it would be about 4 hours later when I would be allowed to go home.
 The final things she told me was that firstly I would report to the main Hospital and make my way to the 2nd. floor and secondly that I would not be able to drive for a few days and preferably not drive until I had gone to her department for analysis which would be about 3 weeks after the surgery.
 So that was that and I made my way back home.
 I don't know if I mentioned it but a couple of weeks ago I went to get my State pension only to find that and I quote. "Due to unforeseen circumstances this Post Office will be closed until further notice." Much more very soon.

Busy Times

These last week or so has been busy and there are no signs of it reducing.
 I did eventually get the Karcher Pressure Washer exchanned without much trouble.
 Last Sunday, yes Sunday British Gas contacted me to offer an earlier date for mt Annual Boiler Service it was for saturday just gone so I accepted. They came and gave my Boiler a clean bill of health.
 Tuesday I went to get my State Pension only to find that the  P.O.Counters was closed. It stated owing to unforeseen circumstances this Post Office will be closed. I managed to get to Alford which the last time I was there a Post office was on the main road. I went only to find it was now a Butchers Shop. I stopped a Lady and asked her where the Post Office was now, she informed me that it was in a local Supermarket. Off I went but found it to have next to no privacy at all but I did manage to get my Pension.
 Later that day I had mail and among it was an invite to get my money paid directly to my Bank. It stated that it was the Government's aim to eventually have all payments paid directly to Banks. there was a contact number as it was a freephone number I rung them up and within a few minutes had my State Pension paid into my Bank but not for a week. I would have to check my Bank details to make sure that the first payment had gone into my Account. After this all should go according to my instructions. So I will wait and see.
 Tomorrow I go to Boston Hospital for my pre. op. so that I can have my cataracts removed but only one at a time and on Friday I have Anglian Water visit me, it was typical for they rang me up last week and wished to visit me tomorrow but I told them it was not possible for I had a Hospital appointment so Friday this week they will be here in the afternoon.
 Then next Monday I have an appointment to have my eyes examined a retinopthay procedure where they put drops in your eyes. It does affect your sight for several hours but it is encouraged for those who have Diabetes so I do go. More soon.

Most unusual.

Last Friday I received a letter giving only my house name and it said the main road at my Village. It had a second class stamp on it so I opened the letter.
 There was a small piece of paper with some writing on, incidentally it was decent writing.
  It asked me if I would be good enough to post the envelope which was also in the letter with this piece of paper. It asked me if I could post the letter where there was a white Sports Car for sale. She went on to add that as she was on the bus the only property with a name clear enough was mine.
Anyway I went out and walked about 500 metres down the road but saw nothing. As there is no footpath to the North I got the car out and went some 400 metres North but once more saw nothing. By now my main meal was ready so I had that and decided to open the other envelope and read it.
 The gist of the letter was that she saw this sports car and wanted to know all about it ending with an email address.
 I decided to email her with the news that the car which she had seen was no more and that I had a good look both North and South.
 I did get a reply thanking me very much adding that it was nice for complete strangers to help with a strange request.
 I mentioned this to the lad next door and he told me that sometimes there is a car for sale. I suggested to him that if there is a car for sale and a contact number is on write it down then give it to me so that I can forward it to the Lady.
 Update on the Karcher. I had sine the telephone call informing me that the earliest they could exchange the Pressure Washer was last Friday. As I was going to a Hospital appointment on Tuesday I didn't go Online at all on Tuesday. I did call at the local Post Office and asked the Proprietor if he sold some tape for securing a box. He found some tape which turned out to be ideal.
 On Wednesday morning I went Online and saw in my inbox a notice informing me that they would be exchanging the washers later that day. I immediately go to work on the box making it as secure as possible. When the guy came the box was small, I noticed that the Pressure Washer had to be assembled. I didn't think about the original one for my mate put it together but had been disassembled it would have been a lot easier to send.
 The replacement id not quite the same quality as the other one but it will do me. More soon.

Karcher.

Last year in February I purchased a Karcher Pressure Washer. I used it and let the lad from next door play with it also and to be honest it was great.
 With the dry Summer we have had I had not used it at all  this year but with the recent rain I decided yesterday to go and water my polytunnel as it was like a desert. I plugged it in and fitted the hose turned on and started. I must admit that it had a peculiar smell but put that down to water but after using it for much less than 5 minutes it gave up. I felt the casing and to be honest, although it was warm it was not unusually warm. I did notice a smell though and thought that the motor had failed.
 I decided to go Online and found the helpline and sent an email informing them what had happened but I made an error in the purchase date putting 1917 instead of 2017.
 This morning I had a reply asking me many questions but on a second reading it was not too difficult to understand. Among things they requested was the number beside the serial number which I had given They also wished to know the date and receipt of the purchase.  The coupling and the rate of electricity I used.
 I did reply informing them that I had registered the product Online in February last year but could not say if it was Currys or Argos where I purchases the product. I answered what they wished and sent the reply. This was about 10.30.am. this morning.
 I was just having my DINNER, this is what I call my midday meal when the phone rang. It was Karcher they asked me a couple of questions and said that they had a swap programme for these sorts of happenings. He told me that the swap would be made next Wednesday, which I confirmed I would be available but then told me that it must be in a box. Obviously I do not have a box of that size so I have wrapped it in a sack that contained bird seed. So now I will wait for an email informing me the time slot for a swap.
 I must admit that Karcher have been first class, first in replying to me almost immediately, secondly in the swift way that they decided to swap my Karcher Pressure Washer for a replacement.
 Bank Holiday is upon us once more and Sunday the forecast is not good let us hope that the forecasters are wrong. More soon.

Text message

I had a phone call from my youngest Sister's Husband. He asked me if I had received a text message. I told him I had not checked so he informed me that my eldest Sister's Husband had just died. He also told me that his body was accepted and would go to research so I assume there will be no funeral.
 I will await my youngest Sister's email to inform me as to what will happen. I presume there will be a Memorial Service at some time.
 My Brother-in-Law did happen to talk about his garden and the produce or the lack of produce. I concurred with him and we left it at that. I did turn on my mobile and sure enough there was a text message. I very rarely turn on my mobile for I have difficulty writing messages because of my sight.
 As for me and my garden, I have had a very poor harvest of potatoes, they are plentiful but so small with the lack of rain. Those in the polytunnel were acceptable but those in tubs and sacks have been disappointing. My runner beans too have been poor producing hardly enough for me to have a couple of meals a day. Also with the heat my climbing french beans have more or less ided off. I did sow some broad beans for a late harvest but they too failed. I do have plenty of fruit although the apples are rather small compared to previous years but it looks as if I will have more than enough plums.
 It is still muggy and hot here but we are promised near normal temperatures from tomorrow.
 The lad from next door told me last week he was going to College last Friday so I saw him on Saturday and asked him how he had got on. His reply was that he had not done well so I asked him what was wrong. I think he was given a times table starting with a 5 times. I told him that this was easy and let him know that if it started with an odd number such as 3x5 or 5x5 then the figure would end with a 5 but if it started with a 2,4,6,or 8 then the answer would end in a 0. We will see how he gets on this Friday. More soon.

Cancellations.

I don't know if it just me or others go through this.
 About a month ago I had an appointment for me to attend the Outpatients Department in Louth giving a date in late July. A couple of weeks later I had another letter stating that "Due to unforeseen circumstances we have to change your appointment to another date". This was late August. I must admit that in general most appointments are altered.
 I have just come off the phone, it was British Gas calling. Incidentally I had a recorded phone call on Saturday confirming my appointment for this Tuesday  7th. August. The operator was very nice and apologised first saying that they had just been informed that due to heavy workloads of breakdowns my appointment for tomorrow has been cancelled. She then checked the availability of appointments and told me the earliest appointment would be October 1st. No wonder  British Gas is not performing well but she did add that because of the inconvenience caused they would compensate me with a £30 cheque. This is very nice and unexpected.
 Now to other serious matters. I think I wrote about my Brother-in-Law having prostate cancer which had spread to his bones. My youngest Sister rung up on Saturday giving me the latest on him. Itis not good, the Doctors wished him to go to a Hospice for the remainder of his life. The Doctor told his Wife(My Sister) that it could be days or at most weeks for him to live. My Sister told me that his vital organs are packing up and he looks yellow due to his liver failing.
 They have arranged for Macmillans Nurses to attend also some other organisations to attend to give my eldest Sister aid, she is 85, her Husband is 88 so of course she will not have the energy to do what she did many years ago. I expect to get a call anytime informing me of his demise and that the funeral date has been set.
 I do have several appointments due, I have the Hospital on August 28th. Surgery appointment on September 3rd. and I have my preoperative medical on September 11th. so as you can see my appointment book is rather full. I keep my fingers crossed that this sad day will not clash with my appointments. More soon.

Quite a surprise

Early Friday morning I was awoken by the sound of thunder. This was about 4.00.am. as it got worse I decided to get up at about 4.50.am. It had been raining but the ground was not completely wet but as the day broke the rain got a little heavier and the thunder was continuous. As it got lighter the rain got heavier so when it had finally stopped it was about 9.00.am. and when I checked my water butts most were full or almost full.
 I had a delivery of LPG around 3.00.pm and it was a female who was delivering so I asked her if she had been awoken by the thunder but all she told me was that it didn't bother her much at all. I then asked her if they had the rain, again she didn't seem bothered saying that they had the odd shower. I told her my water butts were about full. She was surprised at that because she looked at the ground and I must admit it was once more dry.
 Around 5.00.pm. we had a repeat performance of thunder lightning and heavy rain. The rain was so heavy at times that my Sky Satellite could not send a picture and when I got up Saturday morning I could see that we had. I guess about 2" of rain over the 24 hour period.
 I sat down to watch the qualifying of the Hungarian Grand Prix but all of a sudden I lost power. I decided to go outside in the garden for about 10 minutes and when I came back indoors I decided to contact the powers to be. It is a 3 digit number and when I got through it is automated but eventually I did get through to an answering service informing me that they knew of the problem of a power outage and the time expected to reconnect was at 3.30.pm. This meant I was not able to produce any electricity from my Solar Panels. However just before 3.00.pm. the power was restored.
 About 5.30.pm. I had a phone call, it was from the company that supplies electricity. It was a female who apologised for the break in supply and asked if i had been connected yet. I let her know that I was once again with power and told her that originally I was given a time of reconnection that was easily beaten and that made me happy. She told me that she was very pleased adding that the engineers had managed to rectify the fault a lot sooner than expected. This is the first time I have ever been contacted because of a power problem, it was nice of them to contact me. More soon.

Increase

I went to check my LPG bottles and noticed that the needle had informed me that I had run out of over half so I went and contacted Calor to ask for another delivery, first requesting the price increase. I was informed that with the delivery charge it would cost me for 2x47kgs. of LPG would cost me £121.68p. I then let the receptionist that in the last 2 years LPG had increased by over 20%. She concurred saying it was bad.
 The Government has always stated that they try to keep the fuel price increase to a minimum but if it had been Mains Gas or electricity I am sure they would have done something about it, but of course users of LPG for heating and cooking are in a minority so there is no pressure at all. Unfortunately those who live in the country do not have the opportunity of using mains gas which is a shame.
 Things are getting serious over the lack of rain, many vegetable farmers are complaining about the drought and naturally vegetable prices will inevitably increase over the Winter period. As for me and the stored water, I do have sufficient for about 2 weeks but I have been using it sparingly only watering the tomatoes in the greenhouse and using water only on those few plants I have in the polytunnel. I have been watering the tubs with Dahlias in. I decided to buy several dahlia tubers early this year and to be honest I have been very pleased with the display so far. I noticed that the bees love the flowers because whenever I go up that way I notice many bees on the flowers.
 I am watering my runner beans and to be honest, although they are slow I am getting enough means for a meal every day, sometimes I have sufficient for a couple of meals a day. As I am low on ferritin iron to us old fashioned folk, runner beans are full of iron so I like to eat at least a portion each day for as long as they produce. I hope to get enough to eat for at least 2 more months.
 heat is a problem but yesterday we had a breeze which made it a little more bearable. The day before was dreadfully hot so I sympathise with all who live in large towns or cities, it must be dreadful. Over the next few days it forecasts that we will get some rain. We keep fingers crossed. More soon.

DUKW

With the tragic news that many had perished travelling on a lake in the USA , The transport being a DUKW.
 As those who follow my blog know that I moved down to the Coast in early 1969. Among the attractions at the seaside was a coupe of DUKW, they offered trips out to sea from the beach. At the time I though it was hazardous for the visibility of the driver was limited and they were large. Many youngsters were playing with the sand on the beach, I think they only operated for a year or two. Years later I mentioned this to another fellow businessman who had forgotten about the DUKW. There were the odd boat also giving trips at that time ubt as time passed it looks as if there are no attractions on the beach these days, I don't even know if there are donkey rides for kiddies.
 The last two days have been dreadfully hot and like many others my produce in the garden is suffering. The soil in the polytunnel is like desert sand dry and parched. I had a few peas on but the went to seed very quickly. The carrots did not germinate at all outside but I did set a few seeds in the polytunnel and they germinated well. I am giving them water each day as I am looking after 4 climbing french beans. Outside my kidney beans are doing fine as are the lads next door. I went round to see his garden on Saturday and looked at his kidney beans. I pointed out that he should tell his Carer for soon they would have enough beans for a meal. In his greenhouse his tomatoes look very good with plenty of tomatoes on but none ready yet. As for mine I am picking a few up but I did plant mine a week or so earlier then we planted his. This was mainly due to two factors. The first being that my  greenhouse has stronger glass and secondly the Beast from the East damaged his greenhouse and it is only the last month that the Carer,s Husband fitted some plastic to make it more  like a greenhouse. He is looking after his garden well. The weather does not help too much as all are crying out for water and somewhat a little cooler weather. I guess we are never satisfied.
 By the way, according to my profile this is the 1000th. post. I never thought firstly that I would live for that long and secondly I didn't think I could write so many posts. More soon.

Heat

As one gets older, I for one cannot stand the extremes of temperature, that is too hot or too cold, it has been uncomfortable for me these last few days. This morning however was near normal temperatures.
 the dry weather has played havoc with my garden. In the polytunnel the soil is like a desert and I now have to peel my potatoes. Mind you I have been eating this seasons potatoes for over 2 months. The peas have been plentiful but small pods, also they have gone dry quickly so all it means I will have some peas for next year. they are Little Marvel and are a Heritage pea so most don't stock them.
 I have just enough runner beans for a couple of days but they are slow to grow. As for the broad beans, I did plant some Green Windsor, 12 in all but the strong to gale force winds damaged some of them, that is after I did tie them to stakes. I will have about 3 meals so I can't grumble. I have set a few seeds in the polytunnel and they have germinated so hopefully I will get a taste later in the year.
 I am surprised at the progress of the kidney beans, there are several small beans on them and I guess within a week or so a taste will be had.
 naturally with all the hot dry weather my plum tree has been shedding fruit but I will still have sufficient for me and enough to give some away.
 I don't know what happened but I lost all and was taken back to the main page but eventually I found my way back after what seemed an age.
 Next Tuesday I go to Louth Hospital for an appointment regarding my Ulcerative Colitis. The time is at 11.40.am. so I expect to be there for ages. I also had a wait for the delivery of my repeat prescription, I received it late yesterday afternoon, I had visions of going to the surgery for I had run out of one of my medication but I was able to take my medication this morning.
 I checked my blog and noticed that this post will be my 999 post. I don't know just how long I will continue for I have run out of ideas but I will definitely get to my 1000 posts. More soon.

Appointment

Yesterday morning I travelled to Skegness to my mate's home as he informed me that he and his Partner would take me to Skegness Hospital. I was pleased especially as I would have had difficulty finding the place but when he took me in I was impressed not because of the size but also the cleanliness and the friendliness of the staff.
 After being called in to have my BP taken and drops in my eyes I eventually saw the Doctor. He was very friendly also and after inspecting my eyes told me what I knew that I had indeed cataracts in both eyes. What he said next surprised me for he then let me know that he would put my name forward for the operation, first doing the right eye and about 6 to 8 weeks later having the left eye sorted. He, of course informed me that there was risks which I knew and after signing the consent form told me that the operation would take place within 18 weeks but first I would have to travel to Boston to have my eyes measured.
 I left I guess about 45 minutes later where both of them were waiting for me and we went back to their home.
 With the drops in one's eyes your vision is affected for about 4 hours so I was made welcome in their home and my mate stopped with me talking of things past. Eventually about 12.30.pm. I let them know that I felt sufficiently comfortable to drive so I left them. I told them that I was calling at Aldi, which is on the way back home and a detour was only a few hundred yards out of my way. It was hectic there so I only called to get the essentials. coffee was the main thing I required I also picked up some milk, frozen cod in batter and some ham pieces then it was off home.
 When I arrived home it was my first job to get my dinner prepared and to cook it. Whilst it was cooking I picked some peas out of the garden. Although they are plentiful the pods are small. I also picked a few broad beans. I only set about 12 seeds, one of which I intend to let them go to seed so that I will have enough seeds for next year.
 By the time I had picked the vegetables my meal was more or less ready. After having my meal I then went to water some plants and then rested.
 I didn't realise just how tired I get. I recall my late Mother telling me that she was worn out after I went to see her. I couldn't understand why because I did most of the work preparing the meal but now I do. I guess it comes to us all after attaining the age of 80 and we must accept it. The outcome of it was that I was too tired to even go Online. So yesterday was a blank day for the computer.
 Tuesday was taken up by picking the blackcurrants off the bush then taking them individually off the stalks and putting them into 3 containers. It took me ages to do and I got fed up with doing them. This morning I decided to take them out of the cartons and put them into one large bag so I decided to weigh them just to see how I have done. The weight was approaching 4lb. which did surprise me.
 Finally for now I have just picked the first outside runner bean, there are several more which will be ready shortly, also the tomatoes are beginning to ripen in the greenhouse. I don't think I shall be buying any for the foreseeable future. More soon.
 

Heat

I don't know if it a good thing or bad thing but the extreme heat of the sun in the polytunnel has seriously affected the runner beans in there. It seems as if the runner beans can't take up sufficient moisture to make the beans grow. I must admit though I have had enough beans for this week. The lad will be round tomorrow and I have saved well enough for us to have plenty.
 I have also picked some peas out of the garden, although I have noticed the length of the pods are not as long as in previous years but we will have plenty. Also the potatoes in the polytunnel have more or less gone past the scraping and I will soon be peeling them. I have also lost a lot of plants in the garden due to the lack of water. I obviously can't water my garden as it is so large, anyway I need the water for the greenhouse and polytunnel.
 On  disappointing note Calor have sent me the latest price increase. It has increased by almost 7p a litre, I did have a conversion table on how many litres there were in their 47kg bottle but the increase is but the increase is about £7 for a delivery of 2x47kg. bottles. Thank goodness I do not use much at all in the summer months, just hot water and cooking. I guess they will lose a few customers. I will use electricity as much as I can, especially as I have solar panels.
  With my mate coming last week and fitted a printer cartridge today I finally decided to write to a couple. They send me a Christmas card every year and were good customers when I was up at Seaview Kiosk. They wore last year that they had sold the caravan so I have written to them with an invitation to visit me if they come down to the area. It is 20 years since I last saw them although they have called years ago.
  I don't seem to have any motivation to go Online but as I am approaching a milestone I will persevere. The milestone is I am approaching 1000 posts on my blog, I am well into the 990s so I must keep going. More soon.

Sorted.

I did manage to have a taste on runner beans in June although I left it late it was June 29th. when I picked the first lt. As you can see there is about 8onz. of runner beans and plenty on for at least a week. the outdoor plants are very slow this year.
 As I had a couple of letters confirming my appointment at skegness Hospital for Tuesday 10th. July. The time being 9.00.amThe second one informed me that I could not drive to the appointment so I asked my mate if he would take me to Skegness hospital. I would travel to Skegness and park nearby and he could take me to Hospital at the appointed time. He told me there would be no problem at all and I could park on his driveway, but if it is possible I will park on the road nearby for it means he has to take the car off his drive so that I can put mine there. I bet there are double yellow lines to prevent me from parking.
 I have been advised that my sight will not be fit to drive for at least 4 to 6 hours after the drops have been administered so that they can examine the rear of my eye thoroughly.
  The lad told me that the Couple from next door had won a pigeon race. I normally ask how they have got on but it was not until Friday last week that I saw the Man, I asked him how he had got on and confirmed the lad's comment. He told me he was satisfied with the result. I told him that I would have been over the Moon. With that he admitted he was feelin the same for it had been 2 years since he had won anything. I reminded him that his father who had been racing pigeons for many years had NEVER won anything at all. He confirmed that. I guess it was his father that got him into racing pigeons. More soon.

Mate called

This morning my mate called to see me, it was nice to see hi once more. I had owed him some money for he had ordered and paid for some wood and also he bought some other things for me which I was grateful.
 the first thing I asked him was to do me a favour. Last thursday I received a phone call inviting me to Skegness Hospital on Monday July 9th. at 3.40.pm. with confirmation in a letter. saturday I received a letter with a different date and time, this was also confirmed on Monday this week. The new time is 9.00.am and the date is now Tuesday 10.th of July. So I asked my mate if I drove to his home in Skegness and ask him to take me to the Hospital and drop me off. naturally he readily agreed adding that he could park in Morrison's for there is a 2 hour free parking there and as I had an appointment at 9.00.am. he would expect me to be there no longer than an hour at most. Anyway we will see.
 After a mug of tea I asked him to look at my Shower unit, he immediately told me that he would take the handle off and asked me for a couple of screwdrivers one of each. He mended that in no time. I must admit that I would have had no idea on how to start, the outcome is that I can use my Shower once again.
 The next thing was to install a replacement black cartridge in my printer, the old one had dried out through lack of use. He did that easily and then I gave him a few leeks to plant in his garden a couple of very small lettuce plants and a swede.
 It was then dinner, naturally I have had new potatoes for several weeks but it was the first new potatoes he had for his dinner this season. We had chicken with cauliflower and cabbage. He thoroughly enjoyed his potatoes. The cauliflower was tasty but it had began to get past it's very best..
It was soon time to go back to Skegness and the time had flown by so quickly.  I did give him a tray for his george Foreman Grill which he had to remind me. I had told him ages ago that I did have a spare one, I also managed to dig out a larges sheet of sort of plastic to catch the hedge trimmings. I guess that his Partner will have that job.
 I did ask him if he had any runner bean seeds which he told me he did so I suggested that he sow a few because they are the best value for money vegetables.
 I went out and showed him my runner beans in the polytunnel, I hope to get my first feed before the end of this month. The photo shows there are many forming well.

More soon.

Appointment.

On Wednesday afternoon I returned to the Opticians to have drops put into my right eye to enlarge to pupil. All went according to plan you have the drops then wait for your eye to dilute sufficiently for the Optometrist to examine the rear of your eye. After she had finished she asked me if I had read the leaflet she had given to me the week before and I told her that I had read it. She then let me know that she would be writing to the Hospital so that a further examination of my right eye to see if I was able to have the cataract removed.
 To my surprise the next day. yesterday I had a telephone call inviting me to have my eye examined in Skegness Hospital in early July, so now when I ring my mate up tomorrow I will ask him where the Hospital is.
 I was laying in bed a couple of days ago when I remembered this story. It is true.
 I guess it was early 1973 ish for I was open until 10.00.pm each day. I was standing outside waiting for the floor which I had mopped to dry so that I could put the chairs down prior to going to bed.
 It was in early July and as I stood this old Man came up to me, I guess he was in his 80s. I was still in my 30s. He asked me if I sold any pie tobacco. I replied unfortunately I did not but I sold cigarettes and if he wanted any I would sell him some. He declined then as we stood he started to talk about his life. The first thing he told me was that he worked in London for a wealthy Gentleman who had a car. He went on to say that he was the first person to drive a car in mablethorpe. I guess this was in the first decade in the 20th. century. He told me that his Boss had given him permission to travel from london to Mablethorpe which is about 120 miles. He told me that it was a risky journey but he was young. He added that there were very few petrol stations selling fuel but he managed to find sufficient for him to get to Mablethorpe and eventually back to London. He also told me that many folks came out to see a motor car for the first time.
 He told me a few other things most of which I have forgot but this stayed in my mind. He mentioned as a young boy the telephone was just in it's infancy. He said that he told his Mother that one day people will not only talk to one another over vast distance but they would also see each other. This he told me cause his Mother to clip him around the ear and told him not to talk such rot. He was certainly ahead of his time. I was pleased that I had met him, I never saw him again. More soon.

B.G.

The end of May I received a letter from British Gas with an urgent printed on the front for my attention. I opened it and it informed me that I was due for a service on my Central Heating Boiler and timer. As I had this done in early October last year i did not immediately give it much attention. However about 2 weeks later I read the letter once more and found that I could go Online and book an appointment to suit me which I thought was good. Naturally they gave me security numbers and told me where to book Online. Naturally it was not that easy. Anyone who has used any system with security will know just how difficult it is to do. I did eventually find the right page and after a couple of times they accepted my security number and I clicked on to choose a time and date.
 To my amazement I was given 2 dates the first was an AM. appointment in early August and the second was the following day at a PM. appointment the early appointment is for between 8.oo.am. and Noon. which I did accept the other was from Noon to 5.00pm.
 As I have several Surgery appointments, a Hospital appointment which I expect within the next month it is far from certain that I will be able to keep that appointment, I hope so.
 I am getting sufficient strawberries out of the garden now to keep the lad happy. I will only have the odd strawberry for firstly if I eat too many it starts my Colitis off and secondly the small seeds get under my denture plate. To be honest it doesn't bother me much not eating them. I don't think I will even make any strawberry jam as the seeds in the jam are like a brick in my mouth.
 Just had a phone call from my Best Pal he will call on me later today, on Saturday I managed to catch my mate in and hopefully he will be visiting me next week, it will be nice to see him.
 I asked him about his cauliflowers that I gave him months ago, he let me know that he will be eating one over the week end and is happy although they make huge leaves. This is the norm for growing anything under glass or the polytunnel. My broad beans have produced enough for about 6 meals so I can't grumble. They are The Sutton broad beans, they are supposed to be dwarf so that in windy conditions that thrive, some of mine in the polytunnel are well over 5' tall. My runner beans in the polytunnel are producing plenty of flowers but I noticed that the greenfly had attacked them. After spraying them I have noticed that the odd flower had set, so keeping my fingers crossed I will have a taste of runner beans towards the end of the month. More soon.

Opticians

The photos I have taken a few days ago show the potatoes in my polytunnel are more than ready it also shows just how large the plants grow. The cauliflowers are massive, the leaves grow very large but do not have many small leaves on them. The cauliflower on the plate is the same one that I took a photo when it was in the ground. Whether I have any left for when my mate calls is a guess.
 This morning I went to the Opticians in Mablethorpe, I was surprised because each time I passed the place I could see nobody inside. I must admit that I don't go by often, however this morning I went in and there was a guy being served and I waited to be booked in. Whilst I was waiting a lady came out of the examining room followed by the Optician. After she had seen to the patient she asked if I was the one who was waiting, I did concur stating that although I had been there for 10 minutes I had not been booked in so she booked me in and led me to the examining room.
 She gave me a good exam and when she finished she let me know that I had cataracts, I informed her that I already knew and I had them confirmed several years ago. She told me that my right eye was worse than my left eye, something that I knew but at least she told me so. After the thorough examination she then told me that she wished me to return making another appointment for she could not see the back of the eye because of the cataracts, she also added that she could improve my sight but it would be a fraction and suggested that I do not change my spectacles for I would notice no difference. She ten told me that if I wished she would contact the place where the decision to have a cataract operation is performed because she thought my right eye was sufficiently ripe for surgery.
 The outcome is that I have an appointment for next Wednesday for a retinopathy examination, this is where they dilute your eyes and take photographs of them. I did mention that I had this done annually for my Diabetes but she wished to see for herself. Anyway she has done something that I have not done, firstly suggesting that I do NOT spend any money on new spectacles and secondly will after the next appointment write to the powers to be about my cataracts. She did admit that my eyes were good enough to continue driving for now. More soon.

Health.

I had a little disturbing news the other day concerning my eldest sisters Husband. My youngest Sister rung me up to inform me that he had prostate cancer and it had spread to his bones and was in Hospital having tests. since then he has been discharged but the prognosis is not good. The Doctors could not understand it because he has no pain at all which baffles them. My eldest Sister had only 1 boy and he married a Nurse. She is in a Private practice and is quite by chance a cancer Specialist and according to my youngest Sister she has told my eldest sister that her Husband, her Father-in Law will not suffer at all. She will make sure of that adding that they have special drugs which are not prescribed on the NHS. As she works for a private Hospital and is a cancer Specialist she has access to all drugs.
 The local Doctors has told him to eat and drink plenty and if he feels like going on Holiday then he should go, so now we wait and see what happens.
 As for me, I have no worries prepared to my Brother-in-Law. I went to see the Nurse and booked in but added that I was due to have a 3 monthly Blood tests this month and as I was also due for my annual diabetes check I wished if possible to have them both at the same time to save money. As I explained the senior receptionist butted in to inform me that I was having a diabetes check. I told her that I was only having a BP check this morning but she insisted that it had been booked for my Diabetes check and extra time had been booked. I then let her know that had I known I would have bought a urine sample. She asked me if I could give one now but I told her I had had my breakfast. She also told me that if I wished to book an appointment for a Hospital Blood test I could book it later after I had my appointment.
 In I went to the Nurse and she explained what she had done, gave me a small urine bottle and told me to take a sample in within a week. In fact I took it in yesterday. She also told me that last time she gave me a complete Blood test that the Hospital could look and see the results adding that she wished to see me in August but it was too soon to make an appointment, this would also do for the Hospital. I left thinking that the next appointment would be for Blood test and BP in August.
 I went to make an appointment in Mablethorpe to have my eyes tested, I was not too happy for either my eyes are getting very poor or the strength of glasses are not strong enough.
 I went in and to be honest the shop was not open until 9.s0.am. but the lady was displaying the spectacles so I knocked on the window, she beckoned me to enter and the first thing I asked was how much was the cheapest varifocals. Once she told me I booked an appointment for next Wednesday. This was far quicker than British Gas, they sent me a letter informing me that my annual boiler service was due and I should go Online and book the appointment. After several attempts I was offered a slot, believe it or not in August, still it has been confirmed it is an AM appointment.
I heard the Met. Office confirm that May was the warmest month on record. naturally that doesn't include the East Coast which has been rather cold and dull for ages. Yesterday we had some sun but today and the preceding 3 days has been misty very windy and cod. so much so my Central Heating has been on. More soon.

Typical.

It has been typical Bank Holiday weather here on the East Coast, a strong Northerly cool wind and dull in general but no rain yet.
 I went to Lidl this morning to do my shopping and when I got back I was busy taking the goods out of my car when I heard my name called. It was the Man from next door, he is on his own because his Mother and her Partner had gone to Australia for almost a month. I asked hi if he had heard anything from them since they left, he told me he had been in contact and at this moment they were in Sidney. I suggested to him that it would be a lot warmer over there than here. He then told me that yesterday he mowed the field with his overcoat and hat on because it was so cold. This will let you know how cold it can be on the East Coast when the strong winds are off the sea and it is predominantly dull. For the second day we have not even had sign of the sun. Incidentally my Central heating has come 9on early and later I have had my gas fire on. Mind you it has not stopped my new potatoes in the polytunnel grow. I was surprised just ho big some of them are as you can see. This is just off one tubor. I also have several cauliflowers ready or just about ready. That is the trouble with vegetables, especially cauliflowers they all come more or less at the same time and with cauliflowers you can't leave them too long before they bolt. Still it saves me a little money for at this time vegetables are scarce and those available are expensive. More soon.

Weathermen

As usual the weathermen don't consider us on the east Coast. yesterday began sunny but soon the clouds rolled in and gradually it got worse, the temperature was hovering between 12 and 13c but according to the forecasters it would be 16c and mainly sunny. Today dawned very dull and clod, at least the weathermen did alter their forecast stating that it was possible the low cloud would persist right on the coast and the temperature would be about 13c a lot more than it is here for it is just 10c and my Central heating is on once more may be similar to today but on Friday we may have some rain and the week end is supposed to be nice, sunny and warm. I will believe that when it happens.
 yesterday morning the lad came round to plant the kidney beans, while we were planting them the Partner of his carer came to see to the pigeons. I asked him if he had any bamboo canes for if he did I would give him some runner bean plants. We talked about other things and eventually I told him that I had to go back home for I was frozen. To be honest I didn't get warm for the rest of the day.
 This morning I went for my haircut and found the assistant was there instead of the Proprietor, she had mentioned it before but she was a lot slower than the Proprietor but made a good job of my hair, I may well go once again on a Wednesday morning for she works on that day plus on a Saturday.
 As I had onl7y nne fairly large old potato I decided to boil it up so that I could have bubble and squeak, a thing that we had as children many many years ago. This was to save money by utilising any left overs. It was alright but I don't think I will be having it again soon.
 So now it will be new potato time. I want to dig up the potatoes first in the Greenhouse because if they get Potato Blight they will pass it on to the Tomatoes and I definitely don't want that to happen. The potatoes in the polytunnel are doing well so hopefully my potatoes will last me a few months or at least till the potatoes for sale will last. More soon.

Busy

The first picture was of the first taste of New Potatoes out of the greenhouse these were picked I think on Tuesday last week. I decided to see if the second potato in the greenhouse was any better for it looked as if it was. As you can see it was well packed with many potatoes. In fact I had the lad round on Saturday and there was plenty for us plus another meal for me yesterday.
 I had originally asked my mate if he could supply me with a base for the shed but as I hadn't heard from him I knew he was having difficulty in finding a supplier who would cut the formed wood to size so on Thursday I decided to go to the local Jewson. They were most helpful and when I told them what I wanted they let me know there was no problem. It cost me just over £41 which I though was reasonable especially as they had it cut for me to the size I wanted.
 I let my mate know by email and he told me that nobody in Skegness was interested. He rung me up yesterday afternoon just to let me know he was travelling to Mablethorpe with his Partner to visit some friends, asking me if I was in so that he could deliver the Flora Proactive which he bought from Tesco when it was on offer. I told him that he could see my handiwork when he arrived.
 On Saturday the lad came early but I had already more or less emptied the shed ready to put another floor on top of the existing floor which is not of wood but some composite.
 The first thing I did when the lad came round was to go and sort his garden out and whilst he dug the ground I weeded his garden and sprayed with weed killer in his greenhouse where the panes of glass have been damaged.
 Then it was off to mine taking the last couple of items out of the shed. The lad laid the first  plank of wood remarking that it was a perfect fit. When I came to nail it down I noticed that the floor was bowed so that the wood didn't lie flat. To overcome that I told him that we would nail the remaining wooden panels and as they were away from the front well over an inch. What we did next was to get the lad to cut  a length of wood so that it could fit under the planks that were raised. That did the trick for when I nailed the planks to the wood it fitted very well and it was solid to walk on.
 We had dinner and as a treat I bought an Strawberry Cheesecake for his pudding. To be honest I think I am going back to my childhood for I told him to close his eyes and I bought out the cheesecake. I do try to keep the pudding a secret if I can. needless to say he was very happy and he had a second helping which is normal for the puddings I make. In fact he had almost half of the cheesecake. I managed to finish it off today.
 This morning my mate came and I went out to see his Partner to see if she wanted to come inside but she told me she was not too good with trouble which I know a lot about. My mate gave me the Flora Proactive and then went out to see what I had done. I than asked him if it passed muster and he told me that the floor would probably outlast the rest of the shed. Anyway with him calling I had planned to go to get my haircut but it will be Wednesday now, tomorrow is Auction day and no room will be available at the Car Park which is FREE. More soon.

Tired

Yesterday I was too tired to go Online after helping the Lad next door yesterday afternoon.
 I told you about my Sisters visiting me recently but what I didn't mention was my younger Sister went to the Supermarket, I will not divulge the name but there was on offer at a reduced price some Stewing Steak, they were getting near the sell by date but had a couple of days before the sell by date was reached. She decided to get a couple of packs. I can't remember if it was 500 or 800 gramme packs, I think it was 800. When she got home she decided to split the packs into 3 so that she could freeze them. As my Sister is precise she got out the scales and worked out precisely how much each pack  would hold making them all equal. When she weighed the last pack she found that it was not the same as the other 2 so she checked the weight on the original cartons and weighed the combined meat and found that it was short. She decided to contact Customers Service and she explained the weight was short. At first the guy on the other end was apologetic and asked for all details which she gave. Then she let him know what had happened. She informed him that she had worked on an assembly line producing meals and let him know that the weight on the production line had been set too low. She told him that normally if the nett weight should be 500 grammes the weight on the line  should be a fraction higher and any that was below that weight would be rejected. He then said to her that someone would contact her.
 It was a couple of weeks later that she received a letter thanking her for the news and they had contacted the suppliers and had rectifed the discrepancy and if she took the letter to the Manager of the Store she would get a full refund.
 Off my Sister went to the Supermarket and asked to see the Manager, he was helpful and informed her that a full refund would be given to her but if she was shopping she should give the letter to the checkout girl where the sum would be deducted from the total and if it was more than the total, a refund would be given. She explained to the Manager that there was a 30% discount because the items were getting near the sell by date. He assured her that this made no difference and she would get the full refund on the original price.
 The outcome was that she spent a lot less than the refund so came out with more money than what she went in with. She was well satisfied so I guess the scales will be out regular.
 Finally I had a taste of New Potatoes yesterday, they were small but very nice and tasty, I will post the photos next time I go Online, I also have a couple of cauliflowers ready, my Best pal has just rung up so when he calls I will let him have one of them. More soon.

Hectic.

As expected my Sisters came to see me yesterday, they arrived just before 10.30.am. and left a little after 4.30.pm. We had a great time reminiscing but before that the first thing I did was make a few mince pies so that when they arrived they had a coffee and mince pie.
 I told them that I had done a rhubarb crumble and also I was going to give them a demonstration with the Phillips Air Fryer. I had told them that we would have a meal of sausage and chips. Before that though we had a tour of the garden, in  particular my potatoes look fine, mind you they are not in the garden for the soil is very poor. I did ask the guy next door how he had got on with the pigeon racing and he told me he had finished 9th, but had only lost one bird. He then mentioned the new raised bed he had done, putting his pigeon manure on but he told me that with the heavy rain we have had the soil had set like concrete. I mentioned to him that mine was like that too.
 After taking my Sisters round the garden I then showed them the easy way to cook chips. I had previously peeled the potatoes, sliced and cut them into chip shape, soaked them in water to get rid of the starch. I then drained the chips and put them in a cloth to dry a little then I took the chips and placed them in a bowl, took out some oil(extra virgin rape seed oil) and took a teaspoon and poured some iol and filled the teaspoon then poured it on the chips and moved the chips with my hand to make sure all the chips were covered in a little oil. I opened the Fryer and placed the chips in the container and set the timer for 25 minutes. I got the sausages ready to put on the George Foreman  Grill and got the plates ready to warm. I also got everything ready for the meal, after 15 minutes or so I opened the fryer container and gave them a good shake, this is done to make sure that the chips are cooking evenly. I then put the grill on and started to cook the sausages. It didn't take long before all was ready, my Sisters were impressed but my youngest Sister noticed that it wouldn't do a fresh fish in batter. I told her that it was not a deep fat fryer but it cooked by circulating air Mind you they both said the chips were very nice and the Air Fryer looked neat.
 After the meal we went to the sitting room and talked about old times. I am sure I have told you that my Sister, the eldest one went on the Farm for 2 weeks in I think October starting in 1946  and went for a second year. It must be remembered that this was 1948 and 1947. Most of the men serving in the Armed Forces were not demobbed until late 1946 or early 1947 so labour was very scarce. She told me one of the jobs was beet singling back aching but she said it was better than school.
 I don't know if I told you this but she asked me if I remembered the Orange saga. I told her I certainly did. I would be towards the end of the War and a troop train was waiting to enter Grantham Station and it was stationary on the bridge above the main road. An American shouted down and threw an Orange, there was a rush with my Sister winning the race. It must be remembered that fresh Oranges were like hens teeth. The Government used to issue us children with concentrated Orange Juice. Cod liver oil was another thing they used to supply us youngsters with but nobody liked the cod liver oil, however we had to take it.The long and short of it my Sister took the Orange to school with her, guarded it carefully and when she came home we had a taste of fresh Orange. To be honest I could not remember tasting a fresh Orange Bananas were another fruit that I didn't see until about 1947.
 It was a ritual that we had either stewed rhubarb or prunes. They came from America and were dried and had to be soaked in hot water to reconstitute them. In fact they were nice. My Mother used to buy tinned prunes well into her late 80s.
 We had laughs and the time went all to quickly and then it was time for them to leave.  We enjoyed the time together but a thought went out to my other Sister in Scotland for she has dementia. More soon.