Farewell to Ailsa - friend of the Loch Ness monster

A sad farewell today to the diminutive Ailsa who is leaving The Mercat Bar this week heading back home to live with her grandparents in the Great Glen, in sight of Loch Ness. I have enjoyed working with her, she has a lovely personality and was a hard worker - she will be missed.

Hopefully she will not end up being fed to Nessie, on the other hand the shy old monster might take a shine to her and pop up to see her some night!!

Was supposed to be on a day off today but ended up doing some cover in the Bar while the photographers were in doing some work on a new brochure for The Bar. Best bit was after they had photographed a nice "T" steak, and I fell heir to it, slightly more than a tasty snack, delicious.

Had a run out to Booker's Cash and Carry at Longstone, and had a chat with boss man Michael. Carrie, who I mentioned recently regarding the problems with her sick child was saying that she is getting the use of the Hearts Supporters Club, Tynecastle, for a fund raising night to get enough to keep the wee one at the special school in Cumbernauld for another term while she negotiates with the City of Edinburgh Council. If she has as much success as us she will still be waiting in four years time !!!

Headed home, via Bonnyrigg to see Grant of the aching elbow, all meeting up on Friday at the 60's night . Up to Thornton Farm, Rosewell, to see how the folks from the Riding for the Disabled were doing, hopefully they wills till qualify for some funding we have available at the Lodge and Chapter in Bonnyrigg.

Home and popped down to the Leisure Centre for a swim, and afterwards had a blether to Linda (or Lynda), originally from Zimbabwe, but now living locally. We got talking about ice hockey - in the sauna !!! and she was saying that she does some PR work for the Edinburgh Ice Hocky Team at Murrayfield, organises the kids games and fund raising, etc. It brought back memories of the days when I used to take RGB as a youngster to see all the home games at Murrayfield with the Racers. The big games in those days were against the Fife Flyers, and being the local derby match was always pretty violent - great fun for the spectators, and we did enjoy it. On one occasion I had a young Kenyan lad , David, who was over staying with a neighbour on a work exchange project. He had never seen ice and could not comprehend the concept of hockey on ice, so we took him to Murrayfield, all wrapped up with balaclava, scarf, gloves, etc., his bright teeth and wide eyes being all you could see from his face. He was fascinated with the game but terrified with all the noise when the fighting broke out - that night the Racers were playing / fighting a foreign team and there was blood everywhere - not sure if he enjoyed it, but it gave him something to tell his father, a tribal leader, all about.

Not a nice treat at Edinburgh Royal Infirmary

Just a bit subdued at the moment - still got a sore throat after my delightful session in the hospital and having an endoscope this afternoon- not amusing, but tests were negative I think !! back on Friday to find out. Nice wee nurse, Samantha, did her best to calm me down before the "intrusive investigation", but it did not really help - and as I was travelling on the motor bike there was no way I was getting sedated.

However, last night I had a superb session in the chair at RA 500 Laird O Cockpen with an attendance of 57 which included a good deputation from Provincial led by Alex Moonie Provincial Grand Superintendent and his Depute, Andy McKeen. Meeting went well, with a good report, and was followed by lovely buffet prepared by Mrs. B. well appreciated, with little waste at the end of the evening.

Next bash at the Lodge will be Friday night when we ( Big Ian and Dougie) are running a social with a 60's tribute band and a 60's disco.

The swine flu is causing a bit concern, and it looks as though RGB will be screened as he enters Hong Kong on Saturday on his stopover, en route to the land of Oz to see Robbie and Caitlan, leaving Pa and Sir Christopher holding the fort.

Watching the news tonight about the demonstrators in London, who were arrested four years ago following a so called impromptu demonstration and were wrongly arrested. They have been given compensation of £85,000 between them. BUT - they were all foreigners visiting London - so why were they getting involved, then having the dammed cheek to get lawyers involved, who will no doubt get their lions share of the claims. But it will not bode well for the Police Authority in view of the latest G20 carry on. Next demonstrations they should sit back and let the Civil Liberties people Police the event !!!!! That could be fun.

Next wine night at The Mercat Bar will be 26th May, when it will be French wines being sampled, along with good food, all for £15 , not a bad deal.

Might feel better tomorrow, especially if Arsenal can get a result against Manchester United tonight, rather than waiting for the second round.

The things that go through your mind

5.30 a.m. and a shocking night seeing every hour of the clock, once again, free from the effects of "John Barleycorn".
Mind has been churning over on this Swine Flu and the impending Pandemic . I was not all that bothered initially , and with lots of folks coming back from Mexico area saying they had the flu it was supposed that everyone was being cautious. Now we have the two confirmed cases in Airdrie (a young couple who had been on honeymoon) and some twenty of their friends now showing signs, question is how long before friends of those friends begin to show signs ? In this modern day and age it is so easy to see how it Can spread very quickly ( now cases in China now)- when we had the bird flu it seemed to circle the globe a bit more slowly , but with air travel, humans are moving faster .

Yesterday, a quiet day at The Mercat, other than the arrival of the temporary coffee machine which looks like a space ship. Home on the bus, but managed my first swim in about four months, apart from a couple of dips while on holiday in Thailand. Out again at night for a rowdy meeting of the Scribes and Principals of the RA within Mid and East Lothian.

Off early today to the Mercat Bar, and out tonight for my last meeting of RA 500 Laird O Cockpen , before the the summer recess - but I do have the official Provincial visitation this evening. Plenty to keep my mind ticking over today.

Lunch , Royal Scottish Museum and coffee

So it was a long lie this morning, and probably much needed after a long week, and with another few busy days looming. Watched the final stages of the London Marathon , just fantastic to see all these folks raising so much money for charity and running alongside such superb elite athletes.

Headed into town to collect the car which had been left overnight.

We decided go out for lunch for a change and have a look at some of the opposition, tried the Maison Bleue in India Street, for their two course special, then moved on to the Royal Scottish Museum in Cambers Street, looking for a coffee however we ended up viewing some of the exhibits , an old Albany car, going back to 1912, followed by a formula sports car which obviously goes just a bit faster , but not as fast as Jenson Button was going today in Dubai for the grand Prix, he is doing very well, although Lewis Hamilton did manage to do a bit better than he has recently.

Wylam Dilly, the 1813 steam engine, forerunner of all our locomotives, amazing to see how far we have come since then.

Moved on round the corner to the Hotel du Vin, Bistro and Bar, tucked away in a courtyard , a really excellent transformation from the original old building into a lovely hotel - owned by the same group who have No 1 Devonshire Place, Glasgow. We had coffee and petite fours in the whisky lounge, nice , relaxing and comfortable - a nice way to pass an afternoon. They have a very big range of whiskeys, wines, cigars, etc , (at a price) and even have a nice cigar lounge out in the courtyard, quite unusual. Upstairs in the Claret Lounge bar there was an unusual chandelier made out of wine goblets - nice touch.

Photos from the Wine dinner

All the happy campers during a wonderful night at the Mercat Bar. Next wine tasing is at the end of may, so watch this space.
Yvonne, the gang, tara and friend,

Sparky Mark,

The Axioss team

The Boss, four lovely ladies.

Four heroic chaps

Sir Christopher and Lady Ailsa @ Miss Talk a lot.

Five Star Dining at The Mercat Bar, Edinburgh

An absolutely marvellous evening was had by all - superlatives cannot describe the event - it was smashing .

Headed in to town along with Mrs. B ; collected Sparky Mark ; Sir Christopher's Ma, Elizabeth, and our Friend Carol en route to the Mercat where we met up with Gordon , Sandra, Tubs, Linda, Tam Finlay, Grant , Yvonne and many others for the Wine Club dinner.

The Menu.
++++++++++
Terrine of Smoked Salmon & Prawn or Carrot and Corriander soup.
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Tomato & Puff Pastry Tart.
+++++++++++++++
Fillet of Beef with Madeira Jus and Potato Dauphinoise.
++++++++++++++++++++
Peach Melba.
++++++++++.
Selection of Cheese.

Each course was served with a different wine, however, we each had a sheet with lists of wines on it and had to guess from the description given by Tara, from Mathew Clarks which wine we were drinking, and then had to work out how much it cost per bottle - in the form of a "Call my Bluff" and at the end of the evening there were two joint winners, Grant @ Photogenix and Jo Jo - who each received a bottle of champagne.

The menu and meal was chosen by the newest of the Chefs, Andy , who was assisted on the evening by Jamie and young Chris in the kitchen . Everyone was very impressed.

Photos to be added later.

A Bit of a shambles

The heading has nothing to do with last nights meeting of the Rifle Royal Arch Chapter at Lodge Waverley , but with the continuing tram works.

Sparky and I made it to Easter Road last night where we met up with Grant, Alex, Andy Alan Bert and Ian from RA 500, along with members of Esk 42 led by their worthy commander in chief, First Principal John Wright.

Meeting took place and at the finish Alan Black was made an honorary member of the Chapter , a fine honour to bestowed on anyone, and in recognition of his assistance to that Chapter.

Bit of a muddle so we were not able to get the photos as originally planned, and with an early rise, long day ahead i left early.

Saturday , awake at 3 a.m. - once again a very restless night and having had only orange and soda to drink in the past two days, there, perhaps is the problem !!

Into town on the motorbike, lovely morning - then it was non stop right through till 2,30 p.,m. when I left , just a constant stream of customers, from all airts and pairts, Italy, England, Ireland and Wales, so even with four in the kitchen at one stage of the day it was still hectic. BUT , they were also preparing for the special dinner tonight , which i am looking forward to having had an advance peek at the menu.
BUT THE REAL SHAMBLES was outside where the tram works people have now closed off Grosvenor Crescent which was a diversion, now everything is trying to get through from Haymarket in a single file !! total nonsense, Monday morning will be real fun, and with three busy rugby weekends next month - chaos.
Our illustrious workers were wandering aimlessly up and down the street and certainly not a thing was done on our section which has now been open since early December 2008. They have even cancelled the link from here to Granton - now on hold due to the credit crunch. They are likely to have a man on Mars before they finish this job. Spotted the latest "recruit" to the Tramworks team , this young lad was kitted out like one of the workers and was being shown the working, had the the same habits, stood with hands behind his back peering into the holes. Not sure why he was there but probably one of the usual PR jobs. Just happened that Ian, one of our daily clients was sitting in the bus shelter with his cup f coffee when I took the photo - he is a professional pianist who plays most nights at the Peebles Hydro hotel.

Headed home, for a wee rest , and have found a superb booklet "The Bridges of The Edinburgh and Roslin Railway" by Andrew S. Stewart, who was one of my former bosses and a friends. He must have popped it through the door this morning.

Edinburgh's New Town

Had a busy day today , plans all thrown into chaos by RGB Jnr, as we had to head to Bookers Cash and Carry fist thing to stock up The Mercat Bar. The worthy Manager, Michael, was on site and wide awake, so we had a bit blether to him before we left.

Into the Mewrcat, forgot to drop off everything, so I had to go back later on, down to see Eduardo our Pate expert, then out to Penicuik again via the Bush where I discovered that my earlier tirades during the week had certainly ruffled a few feathers.

Just getting set for a run to Bonnyrigg when I was called by Shzad and had to go into Grosvenor Crescent to see him, so to avoid traffic I took the motorbike, and ended up playing chicken with a whit van man who seemed to think that driving down the white line was the correct method.

Had a walk round Grosvenor VCrescewnt and di not really appreciate how beautiful some of these properties are. The one I was at was lovely , and I ended up on the roof where I took this picture of the Edinburgh Castle. Out in the rear garden , quiet, tranqil, sound of birds, and the neighbour had this lovely white tree out in bloom - no idea what it was.

Leaving in a couple of minutes for Lodge Trafalgar, Easter Road, for a meeting of the Rifle Chapter, and Alan Black getting honoroury membership. No doubt news and a photo later.

Perth - Gateway to the Highlands

Busy morning at The Mercat Bar, run off our feet especially during lunch time - Even had a French trio in who had two dinners each.

Headed home sharp, changed and then northwards to the the Fair City of Perth, sitting on the River Tay, where I had a meeting of the O S M there.

Arrived early and managed to get this picture of the River tay , and the bridges. this is where the old Port was and it is not so many years ago that ships of any size stopped going there. The town is nice, not so busy as the big cities, but with a pedestrianised centre.

Stopped off at the Bothy Restaurant , next to the theatre, which had a show on later , and managed to get a table, but had to be out by 6.30 p.m. as there was a full hiuse due to the show.

the place was set out very nice, mainly on one level but with a special private dining room downstairs which was beatiful. I think the place is tied iin Mathew Gloa's the maker of The Famous Grouse Whiskey. Unfortunately , I was not totally impressed with my meal, just a couple of wee things, but it was served very quickly and efficiently by a very nice young lady in a mini kilt - however, the barman in the brown and white kilt looked like a sack of tatties, with black shoes and socks round his ankles, not, in my opoinion the way a kilt should be worn or look like.

Off to the lodge bulding in time to meet mt friend kenny from Pitlochry and his mate Andy. The Degree was very good, four candidates, and a good attendance with Provincial and the Grand Visitor being present. Manged to stay for a bite aftrerwards, again an excellent meal.

Home at a steady toot down the M9 and over the Forth Road Bridge, stopping off via the Bush to check on our youthful tenants.

A day in the fresh air & the budget

Once again, a beautiful frosty morning - but the computer was calling, work had to be done and the sooner the better!! Word from Mr Lowe in the sunny south, yet another junket to the USA in the offing and him only just back from Belgium - pity for him that Manchester City are struggling despite all the money being invested in the club.

A chase them up call to the City of Edinburgh Council, seems that their post room needs investigating - yet another letter apparently lost in the mail, and then despite a promise that the correspondence would be E mailed over, looks like their broadband is not working either.

Last night, just before Sparky Mark and I reached the Lodge we spotted this cheeky wee bird in the car park who was not going to let our presence stop him getting his dinner.

On with the paperwork, lots of information on ACAS procedures and the Disability Discrimination Act, Grievance Procedures, Etc., but I got there.

Off on the road and having called into the Bush I had a couple of problems to resolve, our friend with the hot air balloon was having problems, sorted, and the folks in Renewable Devices, were having problems with me !! if they play ball I will play ball. However, I am sure that they will be happy with Mr (smarmy) Darling's Budget today as he is trying to promote alternative energy systems. No doubt when we are sitting freezing in the next ice age, he , and lots of others will be saying that they thought it would get windy with the global warming and there really was no need for new nuclear power stations - TOO LATE - now he is doing what gamblers do when they are losing, they double up!! is he right or will we all continue to suffer?

I did manage to buy a few bottles of wine at TESCO's before the budget increase took effect - so now there is one less this evening.

On the way out I spotted these two pairs of twins in the field, one couple were obviously looking for the "black sheep" of the family, while they other pair settled for a top up at the "bar".

Pleased to see that my four young ladies from Germany have all been on the blog looking at their photo - someone does appreciate my gossip.

I see that the classic old black and white movie "Whisky Galore" is on the TV on Sunday, my father thought this was the best film in the world, loved every minute of it and Gordon Jackson , then a young man- as I did, so if I get the chance and get finished quick setting up for next weeks meeting at RA 500, I will get the feet up.

Hit the local nursery at Pentland Plants, Loanhead, and bought a few bedding plants for the back garden, probably tempting providence as they could be damaged if we get any more frost, but at least it looks better than the past two years.

Had another go again at Barak Obama's book, he certainly had an interesting childhood in Indonesia and Hawaii, just managing a few pages at a time in the bath, instead of a ritual book, beats the rubber duck !! I wonder if they write a book about Susan Boyle from Blackburn , our "Britain's Got Talent" star, whether it will outsell his book. We had a customer in the Mercat who was wanting directions to Blackburn, West Lothian to go and see her !!

Mrs B going bananas at this banal, clone of Davian McColl who is fronting the "Hell's Kitchen" Tv programme, can the TV people not find alternative types of presenters.

Anyway, back towork a.m. at The Mercat, then later all being well off to Perth to a meeting of the O S M to see Mr Jack from Pitlochry being raised.

Tuesday night at Lodge 720 Dalhousie, Bonnyrigg

A nice wee "special" today about the nights meeting at Lodge 720 Dalhousie, Bonnyrigg.

This being the last meeting of the season before the break, there was a good crowd to start with, however as Kenny (Bomber) Harris, I.P.M. of No 10 Dalkeith Kilwinning was getting Honorary membership the numbers increased by an extra twenty five as his Deputation arrived, which then had the Lodge up to near capacity. He was duly presented, etc., by Alex McBeth our R.W.M..

With one candidate to go through a Degree the office bearers carried out their duties in an impeccable manner apart from myself, who took "stage fright" on the floor - no idea why this always happens at 720, it is the only place which seems to trouble me. just a bit disappointing when all the others were spot on.

After the meeting , one of the visitors, James M Hindman, District Deputy Instructor 53, of the Grand Lodge of Michigan, and Past Master of The Birmingham Lodge No 44, Bloomfield Hills, MI, USA, presented a clock and some masonic pins to Alex McBeth, who in turn gave him a tie and some gifts from No. 720.

Long night and longer day

I think I must have been really , really bad when I was young , not only did I get a big paper round, but I just cannot get a decent nights sleep - spent half the night watching the clock, it is really annoying !! to say the least.

Never mind, it was quite a nice morning when I left at 6.30 a.m. upon the trusty steed of steel ( BMW 750) heading for the town , at least I was not having to pay parking fees, and found the solo motorcycle bay free from unloading lorries.

I had the doors of The Mercat Bar open for business at 8.20 a.m. even although we were not expecting anyone this early , but as usual a couple popped in when they saw that the door were open.
Had a busy morning and lunch time, even managed to fall UP the stairs, watched all the crockery bouncing , but not a break or chip - just me , shaken but not stirred.

My friendly tram workers are having fun , now digging up more of the stuff they have just filled in during the past couple of weeks. Then they even moved the gas pipe which has been lying outside for the last three weeks, but had to borrow a bogie from the Utilities blokes - "Fred Carno's Army" was better than this lot.

Next - our cheerful dray men from Bellhaven Brewery arrived, but could not get parked as someone with an invalid badge was parked in the loading bay area - an even nicer (NOT) parking attendant arrived and threatened to book the lorry so they had to leave without doing the drop, but they eventually returned and did the business. (so to speak).

Just getting ever so pe++d off with the Chief Executives Office of the Edinburgh City Council, ( who appear to be as bad as the Children and Families Department), if they cannot respond to my letters of complaint, how do they respond to contacts by other members of the public !! So , tomorrow, all being well - yet another epistle will be winging its way towards Waverly Court, Market Street.

Anyway , off to 720 tonight with Sparky Mark.

On the hop this morning

Another chilly morning followed by a bright sunny day, something around 17C in the afternoon , although at one stage the thermometer in the car was showing 22.5 C , I know not why.


Had an early rush at The Mercat Bar with just me and Andy the Chef on site - but never mind they were well fed.


Once again there were visitors to the city from all points, with this nice group of ladies from the Frankfurt area of Germany who had been in a couple of days ago. Vanessa ; Heike; Susi; and Annika In the interim they have done the usual Edinburgh sights, including the royal Botanical Gardens, which they said weere great - even hugged a tree for me !! and talked to a few plants. They had also managed a bus trip from Glasgow, up to Balloch to see Loch Lomond, over to Stirling and then back - but had not been all that impressed I think as it was all a bit rushed. Never the less they had enjoyed their holiday.





We also had a Danish gentleman from Copenhagen who was megga happy with the sirloin steak which he ate very very rare, obviously possible as the meat was in good condition.


Another couple, shattered, fresh off the plane from Ottowa, vai London and staying at the Grosvenor Hilton - doing their best to stay away and even managed to get a late breakfast so that they could sample the black pudding.

With the sun shining so much the tables on the balcony were always filled, but the tramworks are a bit of an eyesore, only consolation today was that the men were either away skiving or working elsewhere. The section in Manor Place had more than its share of "gaffers" today - following yesterdays revelations.

Pleased to get home, then back out into the garden for a bit more weeding - the fresh air is just what I needed, but I think the weather is to change again tomorrow.

Had a nice e mail from Lucy in Nottingham to let me know that she and her hen party ( see Sunday's photos) had made it back home in one piece, very tired, but had thoroughly enjoyed their weekend in Edinburgh

Tomorrow, once again in the Mercat, then at night it is back to Masonic business as usual, off to the blues at Lodge 720 Dalhousie Bonnyrigg, where I have some floor work to do - head now buzzing !!

Sunday part 2

- And spelling is being affected by the light infusion of G & T ( Gordons of course). So, on my way into town I took my first two pictures of the twin spires ,ancient and modern, which is very much a modern phenonema in most cities.

Had a great day at the bar, as per Part 1, with a visit as usual from Ian " the pianist", busy, but I was gobsmacked to discover that the workies were out doing their thing at the tramworks - Double time said I - but no, the lads were on basic , and some were sweating as to whether they were getting paid or not for the weekends work. But even worse - I was told that all the work done in filling in the section between palmerston Place and Manor Place last week was being dug up again as the Gas Board did not want the other utilities so close . So on Omnday all the "high heid yins" will have a meeting to decide what to do next !! No wonder this project is costing a fortune - no bugger knows what they are doing.

Young Graham the barman, was amazed at the way I was getting on with the customers, time the staff all paid heed.

Headed home to commune with nature, in my case, not to hug a tree or run naked through the forrest, but to get on with weeding my front garden, which I manged to do in lovely sunshine - with the occasional pauses to talk to passers by, Bobby Watson who was on about the big dinner being organised by Penicuik Rugby Club on 1st May, and my neighbours daugter with her new baby.

While I was in the front garden, Mrs. B. was doing a better impression of Edward Scissor Hands with her secateurs, destroying the back garden, and that was without drink!!!

Then, the thieving pigeon arrived next door to steal food from the bird feeder, it is a bit big for the feeder which is designed for tits, finches, etc, all the totty ones, so the pigeon kept falling off the feeder. Mrs. B. thought it was injured, not the case, just a greedy bird.

Talking of "birds" - switch to "filly's", the dreaded Sparky Mark was at Ayr Races yesterday and claimed he was was being stalked by young females !!! ( managed a couple of phone numbers) then arrived back at the Mercat with his pals - at the end of the day it was Paddy our bar Supervisor who gets the award of the day for taking Sparky home and putting up with his gibberish en route.

Now, time for a kip, another long day ahead.

Sunday - part 1 - the ladies and "Hello Magazine"

For what started off as a very frosty Sunday morning I ended up having a super day, probably one of the best I have had for ages at The Mercat bar, and for that reason I am splitting my days report in two.

From literally first thing , about 8.45 a.m. we had young ladies on the premises, starting with a couple from Sardinia, who were mortified to think that I had mixed them up with the Mafia ladies in Scicily, then it was French , a couple of Germans, Irish and a very buxom English lady who sat in the sunny window seat but denied she was doing an impression of the ladies in Amsterdam !!

BUT at midday the fun began when Lucy Farrell and fifteen of her friends, up from Huddersfield, for a hen party to celebrate Lucy's impending marriage in July arrived. they were shown to the VIP lounge where fifteen ordered lunch , one young lady being just a bit too ill to manage anything stronger than water - poor soul was not really looking forward to a fife hour run south in a mini bus. I discovered that during their stay in the City they had not managed to get a "team" photo, so I got them organised and managed to do my impression of a Dunns River Falls guide by taking pictures of the group on about eight different cameras. They were telling me that they had been out on the town on Saturday night and ended up in a bar in the Grassmarket where on arrival they thought "their luck was in", lots of guys with chests exposed, but soon realised that most were holding hands with another bloke !!! Big dizzy there.

However, they did have a good weekend and Lucy seemed to be happy with her send off - although she did not realise that had she taken a bucket with her, blokes would have filled it with coin in exchange for kisses, although one chap had given her £20 to buy a drink.

Eventually a happy , but tired group left to wind their weary way south.

BUT - BUT - about the same time another six lovely ladies arrived a couple having previously visited our wonderful establishment. This "party" of ladies had arrived from all points north , south, east and west, for a reunion , having orginally met some time ago whilst on a group tour in Vietnam. Within the group, and I have to apologise for not remembering all their occupations, were a film producer, bank manager, HR manager ( who got some stick from me); tourist officer from the Scottish Tourist board, an art and crafts lady ( does not knit woolly jackets for lambs), and the sixth whose job I cannot remember. However, they got themselves organised for lunch, bought a nice bottle of bubbly Rose, and generally settled in. At one point whilst all the usual photographs were being taken I did my bit and took the group photo, it is a shame that the photographer never gets in the photo - and a comment was made about the photo being sent to the Hello Magazine, at which point I was informed that the ladies had all appeared in the Hello Magazine as one of the Editors was a friend of theirs - very good, and well done ladies.

I did discover during conversation that a one of the ladies was "looking for a male friend" , for company, to look at her etchings, eat fine food and drink fine wine, etc. I did suggest that Jamie @ Shrek, our chef might well be available as he was present in the bar at the time, but he took to his heels and fled, mortified - to watch the Rangers - Hibs game in peace down stairs!!! Just where are his priorities.

Anyway, the ladies thoroughly enjoyed their lunch and the "banter", said farewell and parted, although the one who lives locally has promised to come back with her work colleagues - so "Haste Ye Back " ladies.

Moving on to part 2 Sunday.

Old friends and new -mixed couple of days

Saturday night and I have lost a day - so catch up time.

Had a long day Friday, on my feet all day and very busy with a big stag team over from Dublin, kept us all amused, and busy in the Mercat Bar.

On the way home did our "shop" for the bar at Bookers cash and carry. As I have said before, Michael and his team are very good and we always have a chat. We were talking to one of the girls, Carrie Innes, who is currently having a real ding dong with the City Council, trying to get specail funding for her two year old daughter ellie, who suffers from an extremely rare disease called microcephaly hemiplegia, which cases paralysis down one side of her body. She laso has a very rare genetic condition which the doctors cannot identify. Wee Ellie was getting specialist treatment at the Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments, Cumbernauld, but the funding has been stopped as the centre is outwith Ellie's home area. Good luck.

Home, changed, picked up my former colleague and friend, Phil Cronin and dropped him at Lasswade Rugby Club for Ben Kelly's retiral doo while I headed off a meeting of Dundas Lodge in Council at Newbattle as part of the annual provincial deputation. BUT having promised to be Ben's doo I had to make my apologies and leave early to get there for his official presentation.

Made it in time to hear Superintendant Jackie Conway, from E Division, Lothain and Borders Police, give an superb brief on the career of one Bernard Kelly, who had a career in the Police lasting just over thiry years as a police cadet and then police officer. She had done her homework well, and her insight into Ben's career was very interesting. Ben had worked with me for five years prior in the Community Services Department prior to my retirement and was brillant to work with. Latterly he was a Community Police Officer in Bonnyrigg where he was born and brought up, and had worked for most of his service - he will be missed within the community.

There were several of the "older" troops presen, Ian Nimmo, Ian Ross, Des Young, too many too name - but managed a photo with Des, Ben and Phil.

Made it home before I turned into a pumkin, or burst after all the orange and lemonade I had drunk.

Up kind of wabbit, headed into town , got the Orange coated street helpers to unload the car, and then managed to get open in time to greet four young German ladies over for the weekend from Frankfurt, followed closely by a female vegan from Milan !! Me - I could not live without my eggs. Our boyoos from Dublin were not far behind, once more checking out the Heiniken and Magners.

Mad rush to get away heading for No 10 Dalkeith for the Installation of Simon Peter Fairly into the Chair as Preceptor of the Knights Templars, Preceptory of King David of Ballentraddoch, and made it with about two minutes to spare holding up the formal entrance of the "high heid yins". The installation went well, conducted by James McQueen, BEM, RN Retired, and his team , so Simon was well installed. This was followed by a very nice buffet " pilgrim's fayre", speeches, etc during which time, Bert Waite (Taffy) was seen to open his wallet causing moths to escape and Kenneth Baxter (two soups) Campbell to nearly fall off his seat.

Home to find Mrs. B. just in the door having been to the hairdressers, a lunch session with Jo Jo and "Miss Talk a Lot", in George Street - bargain hunting and then back on the big bus.

Now watching the "Britain's got Talent" show on TV, Some folk have either no shame, are balmy or have been so wound up by their friends that they honestly belief they have talent.

Nice messsage online from upside down Robbie's dad, Phil in Canberra. land of OZ, which was coincidental having had a visit from Harry Hepburn, Canberra, on Wednesday.

Lynda Evans - Anthea Turner - memories and what else

Well, as I said this morning it was foggy, but eventually the wind rose, cleared away the fog and the sun came out. In the meantime our tram workers were, for once quite industrious, but maybe that was to keep warm between trips to the loo, for fags, to Gregg,s The Bakers, etc, however, they did manage to get some of the hole filled in. I was shouting at the foreman asking if they would be finished by this x-mas but he scuttled off much to the amusement of some folks queuing in the bus stop. The bus Inspector was monitoring how many buses were being delayed with the works.

Had some really nice visitors in today, from Ireland, France and the USA (New York), along with our regulars so I quite enjoyed myself.

Home and despite the cold did a bit more weeding, before hitting the outstanding paperwork. The Johnston's of Egham called to say that after a busy day Mrs. J. had managed to get organised to join us in Dublin in July, she even has better tickets than mine for Riverdance, but will not swop - what a friend.

Currently watching Hell's Kitchen on the TV with the celebs getting a roasting in the kitchen, BUT more interestingly for me, Anthea turner is a Prices Trust ambassador, and years ago when she did the Breakfast Show on GMTV we met her daily for a week when we were on holiday in Torremolinos, Spain. She was the host of the show and had Derrik Evans, Mr Motivator on the same show every day. She is very nice, but got a lot of hassle from some yobs who were in her hotel. Even better, Lynda Evans, ex - Dynasty, is also on the show tonight - I used to think she was amazing - and she was, BUT - she came to Edinburgh for a Royal Command performance to the Queen at The Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre, during the Commonwealth Games ( way back - I cannot remember the year). So, there I was as a search team leader doing my thing in the theatre which obviously meant that we had access to EVERYWHERE - so as team leader I popped into all the dressing rooms and met all the stars, including Lynda Evans, who was beautifully and a real gentle lady, Shirly Bassie - gorgeous, with legs all the way up to her bum, fabulous, with a great sense of humour, Bob Monkhouse, the Rolly Polly's; Frank Carson, and lots more.

Anyway still watching Hell's kitchen, and what a lot of pretentious tw++s ( not twitts - or eejits)there are in the restaurant as guests, including the Compere who is trying to do a Davina McColl, I would rather see the food going to real people.

Now back to real life people, a wee warning lesson about a friend who has just been on a family holiday holiday to the USA. he had his flights, but booked accommodation on the Internet - Local company got him a villa in Orlando, so he paid them ( about £800). right - he later gets a message to say that villa is not available but he has been given alternative accommodation at the same price.
Arrives in the USA and is sent to the accommodation which is out of this world, a penthouse suite, just super - signs the usual paperwork which he presumed to cover any extra expenditure he might have - seemed normal. His own paperwork from the UK appeared to be in order as the accommodation folks accepted him.
However - after a brilliant holiday, got home, no problems, then five weeks later he receives a Visa bill with an extra £2800 on, from his accommodation !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! starts making enquiries and is getting nowhere fast, seems that there was a middle company involved, who got the money from the UK firm, then were supposed to ;pass it on to the accommodation folks - but now they have disappeared, no longer trading, and our friend is apparently left with with an unpaid bill - so MBNA have to sort it out.
Up early, big group due in from Dublin on the early Ryan Air flight, then out at night to Gorebridge Lodge in Coucil, and back to Lasswade Rugby Club for ben kelly's retiral doo.

Another foggy day in the City

Made it to Colinton and Currie R A. last night where they had a visitor from the land of the upside down people - Harry Hepburn , a member of R. A Caledonia 177, from canberra, formerly No 803 in the Scottish Constitution. Nice wee photo of him , on right, with Alex Moonie, Provincial Grand superintendant (Left) and John McNeill ( with two ll's ) from Tranent.
Harry actually originaes from Aberdeen and is over on a nine week holiday - taking in lots of masonic visits when he can.

Headed home in very thich fog - on the A720 Edinburgh City By Pass the overhead gantry boards were warning of thich fog - stating the obvious. Then on the A702 I ended up following someone in one of these tiny little Honda vans, with either a six volt system , or carbide headlights, ( I do remeber the old carbide lamps the miners had, also the police, and yes, there were cars with carbide headlights) who was crawling along causing havoc.

Great excitement today - yawn, as I believe that the UK Government ( Cabinet) is going to meet in Glasgow today , the first time in ninety years - wonder what the weegies will say about that.

Thick fog again this morning , but I had a lift in from RGB, however, the workmen are outside at the tramworks doing "something", probably too embarrassed to work when weather is clear in case their relatives and friends see them working. I did ask the forman if they would be finished by the summer !! but he cleared off not amused - but then again , neither am I.

Need to get on with some work.

Aunty; Aunty, Aunty Claire

Well the bright news of the day is that Auntie Claire, one over is now thrice over as her brother Graham's wife Allison gave birth to twins, a boy and a girl earlier today - all five are doing well.

Apart from that , it has been raw, chilly cold today, 5.5 C , with a thick sea fog, not good, should have been a duvet day.

Up with the larks, or whatever as I could not sleep found the place in darkness as the lights would not work. Eventually fixed a fuse wire and lo and behold - no bangs but there was light.

Having missed the "Riverdance" show when it was in Edinburgh in March, our beloved son manged to get some for us in July, in Dublin, so that will be something nice to look forward to.

Started crunching numbers at 6.30 a.m., and carried on till I went off to see my dentist, Sharon, for a scape and polish. Thank goodness, as I hate dentists at the best of times and have even passed out in the chair, with fright, and ended up on the floor.

Back to the computer and paper - so much for a paperless society, it is just duplicating everything.
Had a run into town to see the new birthday girl, Carol, who is needing to dry out after a very long birthday party !!, well done. Just a wee break before returning to the paper - but I am getting there with the annual accounts.

Heading off to Currie this evening to the Colinton and Currie Cryptic Council, where the usual squad from Provincial will be there.

Leith and Ocean Terminal

Up reasonably sharp, and out into the garden to murder a few weeds, the wheelie bin is now overflowing - but activities cut short as we had to head for town.

Dropped off RGB at work while we popped out to Ingliston to visit friends before heading back to town, via Maybury , Barnton , Granton and along to Ocean Terminal.

I was just a bit hungry so we had a bite at Ma Potters, which was not bad.

There was a big ship in beside the Royal Yacht Britannia, the "LOGOS HOPE" which I later discovered was a former car ferry used in Germany / Scandinavia and now owned by a religious Organisation that travels the world holding conferences and conventions. It is leaving Edinburgh tomorrow and heading north , then over to Ireland and later in the year will be in the West Indies - quite interesting.

Bit of a wander through the shops and then up to the New Kirkgate, Leith , where I had another wander while Mrs. B. was visiting a friend

This part of Edinburgh is steeped in History, the Kirkgate was visited by Queen Victoria and there is a nice commemorative statue. The Lodge Trafalgar dates back to 1808 when it was chartered, used several premises, i.e. Potter Row, and then the present purpose built lodge was built in 1888. On the outside of the building there are many masonic marks relating to several degrees including all the working tools of the various office bearers. There is a good history on the web.

Then into the South Leith Parish Church yard which can be traced back to the 12th Century but with a more fuller history from 1483, and even in 1484 King James III donated 18 shillings to the funds.

Over the centuries the church was used as refuge, a prison and an armarie ( by Cromwell). In the graveyard the oldest grave I found was dated 1656. Robert Louis Stevenson even used the name off one of the graves as a character in his book "Kidnapped" (Frew) , while one of the other characters was found on a grave up on the Calton Hill

Across the road is Trinity House, which dates back to 1570 when it was a charity for mariners, it was eventually rebuilt in 1816 and is now a maritime museum holding some pieces over 600 years old. You have to remember that the biggest wooden warship ever built , the Great Michael was built in Leith, and as a harbour and trading port Leith was active for four hundred years trading with Europe before Glasgow took over the No 1 mantle.

The museum is open to group visits by appointment

Head full of history and dates which I will never ever remember, so home to get on with some work (paper) which is mounting.

Easter Monday - tourists on board

Bitter freezing cold Easter Monday morning , but with bright sunshine so I decided to wrap up and use the motor bike. Got into the town and of course the motor cycle bay was taken up by lorries unloading so I had to go around the block to the Hilton hotel, to get parked. Yet another problem caused by the tram works and continual delays.

Easter Monday and the town was quiet, plenty of tourists around, and from what I heard Edinburgh Zoo was jam packed with crowds there to see the new monkey house. Eventually, our customers arrived, from France, India, Ireland, England, and locally. The French group had flown in from Marseille by Ryan Air, hired a camper van and had been to Perth, Fort William, Oban, etc., and were on their way back to the airport. The Indian lads were heading for Glenkinchie Distillery at Pencaitland, ( a lovely single malt whiskey - and also the makers of Haig,s Dimple blended whisky) before driving south to London - but seemed to think they could fit in a quick run to Pitlochry to see the salmon ladder, and to Pittenweem, Fife, just a bit impossible.
One couple were in for breakfast before their twelve mile walk round Arthur's Seat, down to Leith and back up into the City. As it was the lady's birthday , she was coming back for dinner, with 10% discount, of course.

NCP are playing silly works again, their system is rubbish so we are having to produce our evidence to say that we have a parking permit - I wish they could get simple things right.

Headed home early, roads were busy with the weekend holidaymakers heading north, worse than Sunday drivers - sun still shining so a few more weeds bit the dust.

Had a call from The Johnston's of Egham, who have had a peaceful weekend due to the fact that the "Little Roses" with parents of course are in Antwerp for a couple of weeks. To, Mrs. J. just to confirm that your sender in Egham made the mistake, asked for a Friday delivery.

Mrs. B's big treat for Easter was to be driven round Penicuik's new roundabout !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A few years ago we spent an Easter with Wayne and Mary Kief in Westchester , P.A., USA, and on Easter Day they had a wonderful Easter egg treasure hunt the boys had a great day- all the houses and gardens were beautifully decorated, it was marvellous. We then headed up to New York where the weather changed and we had blizzards, folks were stranded outside the city in deep drifts, and when we climbed the Statue of Liberty I could not see a thing due to the snow - old memories, including the fact that having climbed all the way to the top and back down again, I could hardly walk when I reached the bottom - only consolation was that had the place been busy I would have been climbing the spiral staircase cheek to cheek with a stranger!!!!!!!

Only consolation was that Macy's store was fantastically beautiful with the entire store decked out in massive floral displays - now I only have a field of daffodils to look at.

Somewhere under the rainbow

Easter Sunday and I did not have an egg , not even a fried one !! But , nevermind, Mrs. B. was given a lovely bouquet of roses by Jo Jo, which saved me!! miserable person.

had to waken the bold Sparky so that we could get away to the Cash and Carry, what was worse was that his sister was up at his house looking for him as he was due to be dog sitting.
Not sure waht was going on at Costco's, gates were closed so we ended up at Bookers, Slateford, and then into the bar. Had a problem getting parked due to all the church goers at the cathedral and the church around the corner. So I had a shouting match with a traffic warden , "L" driver on his scooter who was weanting me to carry all the stuff from the car about a quarter mile - not bloody likely.

Headed hoem as the sun was shining and took myself out to pull a few weeds, and ended up falling asleep in the sun for an hour.
It began to cloud over a bit, so after dinner I got out the steed of steel went for petrol, and stopped to get a photo of Penicuik's first round about, and the new Lidl store being built - we will need to wait and see how many shops close due to it's appearance.

Decided to have a short run, out by Carlops and onto the moor road, when I saw the rainbow ahead, and as usual when you are trying to find that ellusive pot of gold, it keeps on moving further away - but it was impressive and the photos do not do it justice.

So, there were a few happy chickens yesterday, Hearts managed a 1 - 1 draw with Celtic at Tynecastle Park, while Rangers picked up three points for their win, so the Premier league is back to a tight finish at the moment.

Not really following the US masters golf this year, but from what I have seen , the golf is amazing and the course is in wonderful condition with greens running so fast you need to have a surgeons touch.

Wee bit of reminiscence this evening when we watched John Travolta and Olivia Newton John in "Grease" - a great movie with good music and dancing, interesting to see how they have both progressed over the years.

Early start again in the morning to get the Mercat up and running.

A fine and varied Easter saturday

Up with the larks at 6.30 a.m., or whatever type of bird was twittering outside, got myself ready and caught the 101 McEwans bus into town. My ex scouter, the bearded Fergus at the helm, and with quiet roads we were in early and I had a nice stroll down Morrison Street, past the Edinburh International Conference Centre, arriving on time.

Was semi organised when young Paddy arrived, followed by Sarah, Isla, Sir Christopher and RGB, with Shrek and Andy in charge of the cooking later aided by Lauren. Claire arrived later and broke the news to me that the new menu will have a 16 oz T bone steak !! just wonderful, so I will have to put off becoming a vegitarian for a bit longer.

Plenty visitors in the City and with it being such a fine morning we soon had our tables filled with a variety of nationalities - South African , Chinese, Irish, USA, very interesting chatting to them. Laurence, our daily regular was in, as usual working on his crossword, but finds it hard to concentrate with all the things going around him, so he and I often carry out very long convesations, simply because I keep breaking off to serve someone, answer the phone, or whatever - but it keep us going.

Outside while talking to Jani from next door, I spoke to a very nice little old lady who passes daily on her wanderings, she is Irish and lives up in Dalry. We had a wee blether and she told me that she was originallly from Donegal, came over to Ayrshire when she was fouteeen to the "tattie picking", stayed there for a while and then went up to Ullapool to work in the fishery there. Bearing in mind that Ullapool was a very busy port some sixty years ago, and also a base for the Russian trawlers and whaling fleet. From thre she movedto Peterhead to work in the herring sheds, and eventually down to Leith, Edinburgh for the kipper sheds. her final work before retiring was at dobbies nurseries, dalkeith where she was planting out seedlings, etc - a very hard working wee soul - so next time she passes she will gether cuppa and another chat.

As I was going to the Squaremen , sparky mark arranged to meet me at the Standing Order but by the time he arrived Tam was en route to The Edinburgh Masonic Club, so we had a nice walk along Queen Street, York Place, and down Leith Walk, to meet up with Tam, giving him enough time to get in first and set up the drinks !!

A very good attendance at the meeting chaired by Andy McKeen and aided by the old yin, Jim McQueen, BEM, RN retired. Four candidates, one from my own Chapter 500, and all well kent faces, duly initiated in good humour.

Tam was meeting his good lady, Cathryn at the Melville Castle Hotel, Eskbank, with friends, so he took advantage of a lift with Andy, Jim, and Alex Moonie, while Sparky and I remained for a chat before heading up to the North Bridge for the bus. Took this shot of the City of Edinburgh Council headquarters, Waverly Court, built on the site of the old fruit market at Waverly Station, the whole area is steeped in history.

Eventually made it home, long way round on the 37 bus, where RGB , Jo Jo and Mrs B. were waiting, so after a very nice dinner, our evening turned out to be a good laugh, with Sparky falling asleep and getting the spare bed.