Tea break, and deserve it as I have been chasing all over since I got up. Been to the cash & carry, banks, got my Euro's for Sunday. etc. Went to see Grant at Fotogenix in Bonnyrigg so, having copied all the images from my memory cardsI now have two clean cameras to take awy with me.
After all the trouble he wentto to get his new motorcycle grant does not like it and plans on changing back to a scooter.
Saw one of the local lottery millionaires this morning, out for run in his nice sports Bently - lovely car. Best of luck to him, I am sure we would all do the same.
Was down at S.A.C., The Bush, this morning to see Alan and Arlene in Facilities Dept., just my luck, the annual BBQ was on at lunch time and i am too busy, plus have to work, so just have to give it a miss again.
Sods law, heading home from Bonnyrigg and who do I meet again - yes, it was the same tractor which held us up last night, this time going in the other direction - with me behind it again.
Met one of my ex colleagues of many moons ago, Barbara - standing joke was that she slept with me on the nightshift !! She did - we could leave the office at 11 p.m. and she would be sound asleep inside ten minutes and I was left to drive around in silence most of the night. She has a good job now which takes her to China for about nine weeks a year, well done.
Must get on and get organised for tonight.
Friday, 31 August 2007
What happened to summer?
Well, just ever so tired this morning having had a long day yesterday.
Had a busy shift at The Sportsmans Bar, due to there being an afternoon race meeting at Musselburgh. But "no worries", Robbie was there to help me. Being busy helped the evening to pass quickly but is was still after midnight before we got finished.
I heard that Jackie, Jess and the golfers had a 5 hour delay in Malaga, waiting for their Globespan flight home - hope the plane is on time for me on Sunday.
One of boys, recently married, came in a bit shellshocked and said thet he was going to be a "daddy" - as he said, it was what they wanted but were surprised it had happened so soon - anyway I am sure they will both enjoy the experience of parenthood. I mean look what it did to Ann and I, having to look after both Graham and the budgie.
Spoke to one of my long time friends from Durham last night, Michael. I used to stay with his parents on my weekends off when I worked in Durham in the early 60's. He has not been keeping too well but called to say that his father had been taken into a care home as his memory was going and he had problems coping. I will need to go see him when I get back.
And guess what, Tam brought my camera back - so the evidence is not lost !!
It was really windy and getting cold when I returned home.
Today's message to Bob Malcolm.
You have no mercy, just because you are up we should be up, I'm shattered this morning, what with packing my wee case,cutting the grass and doing my chores before going to work last night.
Did my nut yesterday afternoon, I thought I had enought time to get to Musellburgh so I took the back road from Penicuik,via Rosewell and Dalkeith. Guess what, a tractor who had strayed off the bypass, there was a grand convoy of cars all the way, and this is true, from the new houses at Rosewell through to Whitecraig where I turned off.
A Mr Ronaldi was up at the Mercat yesterday, said he was a fisherman and knew you and wondered how we were so friendly ?
Anyway, looks like Summer has gone from the winds and blowing leaves this moning, so I am looking forward to a few "vino tinto's" in the sun.
If I get the chance I will send an "electro - postcard" and bring you some rock.
Beunas dias
Had a busy shift at The Sportsmans Bar, due to there being an afternoon race meeting at Musselburgh. But "no worries", Robbie was there to help me. Being busy helped the evening to pass quickly but is was still after midnight before we got finished.
I heard that Jackie, Jess and the golfers had a 5 hour delay in Malaga, waiting for their Globespan flight home - hope the plane is on time for me on Sunday.
One of boys, recently married, came in a bit shellshocked and said thet he was going to be a "daddy" - as he said, it was what they wanted but were surprised it had happened so soon - anyway I am sure they will both enjoy the experience of parenthood. I mean look what it did to Ann and I, having to look after both Graham and the budgie.
Spoke to one of my long time friends from Durham last night, Michael. I used to stay with his parents on my weekends off when I worked in Durham in the early 60's. He has not been keeping too well but called to say that his father had been taken into a care home as his memory was going and he had problems coping. I will need to go see him when I get back.
And guess what, Tam brought my camera back - so the evidence is not lost !!
It was really windy and getting cold when I returned home.
Today's message to Bob Malcolm.
You have no mercy, just because you are up we should be up, I'm shattered this morning, what with packing my wee case,cutting the grass and doing my chores before going to work last night.
Did my nut yesterday afternoon, I thought I had enought time to get to Musellburgh so I took the back road from Penicuik,via Rosewell and Dalkeith. Guess what, a tractor who had strayed off the bypass, there was a grand convoy of cars all the way, and this is true, from the new houses at Rosewell through to Whitecraig where I turned off.
A Mr Ronaldi was up at the Mercat yesterday, said he was a fisherman and knew you and wondered how we were so friendly ?
Anyway, looks like Summer has gone from the winds and blowing leaves this moning, so I am looking forward to a few "vino tinto's" in the sun.
If I get the chance I will send an "electro - postcard" and bring you some rock.
Beunas dias
Thursday, 30 August 2007
Daily Epistle
Note to Bob this morning
I bet you are pleased it was not me on the phone just out the shower - you with your new fangled "see" phone.
Came down this morning, found the note "PACK YOUR BAGS", and thought, "brilliant - I am getting time off for good behaviour". My mistake, just a reminder to look out the cap, string vest, baffies and speedos for my hols on Sunday.
Had a good run out on the motorbike yesterday, headed east on The A 1, then cut over at Grantshouse to Duns for my 12 th annual pilgimage to see my friend Andy Mimms at Border Bikes and get a service for the bike. Good to see him again, then home via Greenlaw, A 68, Pathhead, etc. Lovely round trip of about 85 miles, ideal for the Sunday drivers.
Is this a women thing ? as a good turn I emptied the washing machine and hung everything out on the whirlie thing, The good lady then goes out and rearranges it all - I thought clothes would dry just the same, inside out or upside down !! Or am I wrong again?
I bet you are pleased it was not me on the phone just out the shower - you with your new fangled "see" phone.
Came down this morning, found the note "PACK YOUR BAGS", and thought, "brilliant - I am getting time off for good behaviour". My mistake, just a reminder to look out the cap, string vest, baffies and speedos for my hols on Sunday.
Had a good run out on the motorbike yesterday, headed east on The A 1, then cut over at Grantshouse to Duns for my 12 th annual pilgimage to see my friend Andy Mimms at Border Bikes and get a service for the bike. Good to see him again, then home via Greenlaw, A 68, Pathhead, etc. Lovely round trip of about 85 miles, ideal for the Sunday drivers.
Is this a women thing ? as a good turn I emptied the washing machine and hung everything out on the whirlie thing, The good lady then goes out and rearranges it all - I thought clothes would dry just the same, inside out or upside down !! Or am I wrong again?
I thought he was dead
Yesterday, while driving past Pinkie Playing fields, Musselburgh, I remembered going there way back in the 60's to take part in the County School sports championships, where, despite not being a great big lad actually won the shot putt competition.
About two months later, having by then left school at the summer break, I had moved to Durham where I had joined the Police cadets. As part of our induction we were doing athletics, sports, etc., including the shot putt. Our instructor (Sgt Richardson) gave me the shot and was standing in my line of fire, I asked him to move as my aim was a bit erratic, but he ordered me to throw - which I did, striking him on the chest causing him to fall down and pass out.
There was obviously a bit of panic as we thought he was dead !! I was later reprimanded for hitting him, and despite the other cadets all insisting that I had warned him it was apparently my fault for not being more insistent.
About two months later, having by then left school at the summer break, I had moved to Durham where I had joined the Police cadets. As part of our induction we were doing athletics, sports, etc., including the shot putt. Our instructor (Sgt Richardson) gave me the shot and was standing in my line of fire, I asked him to move as my aim was a bit erratic, but he ordered me to throw - which I did, striking him on the chest causing him to fall down and pass out.
There was obviously a bit of panic as we thought he was dead !! I was later reprimanded for hitting him, and despite the other cadets all insisting that I had warned him it was apparently my fault for not being more insistent.
Wednesday, 29 August 2007
A visit to Duns
Had a good run down the A 1, via Dunbar, to Grantshouse then over through Preston to Duns where my long time friend Andy Mimms did a full service to my bike ( 750 cc BMW tourer). He has been looking after it for the past twelve years, but only moved to Duns a few weeks ago following a fire in the adjacent premises at Berwick on Tweed which has forced him to move out of his workshop.
While he took it away for a test drive I had a good blether to his mate Davy about things Masonic. I then headed homewards via Greenlaw, Carfraemill, up the A68 and cut off at Pathhead through Gorebridge and home. Round trip of about 85 miles, well worth a run as there is plenty to see, some nice stops, and a variety of road types.
After umpteen attempts
I have been trying to get this picture in for a couple of days.
Taken in Preinces Street Gardens, West End, of the fountain and Castle. I like it.
Manic Morning
Things are mad around here so it is a case of a few notes and then I will work on them later if needed.
1. Great news from Catlin, she has got her job as a specialist care nurse, means Robbie will have to go home on the prison ship alone.
2. Moira Purves called to say that Stuart and Louise are parents again, new baby yesterday, jack at 8lb 13 oz, new brother for Adam. Well done.
3. Tam forgot to hand the camera into the Mercat, must get it before the weekend.
4. Sad news from Irish Christine last night, Bernie Ketchin died last week having just been allowed home from hospital. Our thoughts are with Marina, Jools, tommy and the family.
5. Danny called to wish William a happy 60th next week, says that "old bricklayers always get laid".
6. Peter Wilson, Chief Constable of Fife, says school buses are no better than travelling gang huts and plans to put officers on to control pupils. What a good idea!!! I used to do that every dayshift in Penicuik, and Loanhead - about 25 years ago.
7. Must hit the trail, hopefully to go to Duns to get m/cycle serviced.
1. Great news from Catlin, she has got her job as a specialist care nurse, means Robbie will have to go home on the prison ship alone.
2. Moira Purves called to say that Stuart and Louise are parents again, new baby yesterday, jack at 8lb 13 oz, new brother for Adam. Well done.
3. Tam forgot to hand the camera into the Mercat, must get it before the weekend.
4. Sad news from Irish Christine last night, Bernie Ketchin died last week having just been allowed home from hospital. Our thoughts are with Marina, Jools, tommy and the family.
5. Danny called to wish William a happy 60th next week, says that "old bricklayers always get laid".
6. Peter Wilson, Chief Constable of Fife, says school buses are no better than travelling gang huts and plans to put officers on to control pupils. What a good idea!!! I used to do that every dayshift in Penicuik, and Loanhead - about 25 years ago.
7. Must hit the trail, hopefully to go to Duns to get m/cycle serviced.
Tuesday, 28 August 2007
The Heath
Losing the plot here, tried to put a new photo into the system but the other computer and internet connection are playing up.
The Heath, Runcorn, where I have visited every few weeks for the past two years as part of my work.
Arrived this morning after four and a half hours on the road and met by Jill at Reception, very keen golfer, and who has to put up with my regular rantings after an early rise and heavy traffic. Today I was doing my nut about all the yellow lines around the place. as the regular inmates take up all the good parking spaces, visitors are forced to walk some distance from the car parks to the various Receptions, and in my case often carrying several parcels.
Headed to my first port of call looking for Lorrraine, but met Liam, Barbara and Patricia, holding the fort whilst Lorraine had yet another day off. All in fine fettle and Liam did the business in quick time, second call to see Tracy, then over to the canteen where I found the other skivers !!! The very nice ladies !! in the canteen, had tucked away a bacon roll from breakfast for me as I was between breakfast and dinner times.
Christine ( canteen) is off for an eye sight test tomorrow, ( wed) as she now needs glasses I think. I said that she was in for a treat when she saw her husband in good light, however she said that she enjoys just feeling his body in the meantime.
Heading back to the car I met Mr Jobsworth, in his full regalia, yellow fluorescent jacket, fleecy lining, nato pullover ( on what was a pleasant morning), however on this occasion he did not have the opportunity of sticking one of his notices on my car. Maybe next time.
The Heath, Runcorn, where I have visited every few weeks for the past two years as part of my work.
Arrived this morning after four and a half hours on the road and met by Jill at Reception, very keen golfer, and who has to put up with my regular rantings after an early rise and heavy traffic. Today I was doing my nut about all the yellow lines around the place. as the regular inmates take up all the good parking spaces, visitors are forced to walk some distance from the car parks to the various Receptions, and in my case often carrying several parcels.
Headed to my first port of call looking for Lorrraine, but met Liam, Barbara and Patricia, holding the fort whilst Lorraine had yet another day off. All in fine fettle and Liam did the business in quick time, second call to see Tracy, then over to the canteen where I found the other skivers !!! The very nice ladies !! in the canteen, had tucked away a bacon roll from breakfast for me as I was between breakfast and dinner times.
Christine ( canteen) is off for an eye sight test tomorrow, ( wed) as she now needs glasses I think. I said that she was in for a treat when she saw her husband in good light, however she said that she enjoys just feeling his body in the meantime.
Heading back to the car I met Mr Jobsworth, in his full regalia, yellow fluorescent jacket, fleecy lining, nato pullover ( on what was a pleasant morning), however on this occasion he did not have the opportunity of sticking one of his notices on my car. Maybe next time.
Accidents waiting to happen.
back home safe and sound after round trip of 5oo miles.
Left at 4.45 a.m. and headed to Glasgow on the M8, and it was not long before the 1st white van passed me going like a steam train, I thought I was driving with the handbrake on. Before long there was a steady procession, some one eyed (headlight), which is even worse when they come thumping up behind you, not so bad when road is quiet but when it is busy you are forced to give way to them.
Met Fraser at Glasgow and even had the car checked out by the Police !! Fraser is a motor cycle fan and recently did a flier over a car whose driver was not paying attention, so after some recuperation got a new bike and is back on the road again.
Headed south, and as daylight appeared so did the "loonies", white van men, boy and girl racers, it seems that everyone races to get to work early, probably to have a fag before going into the office. Twice I was passed by big "sprinter vans" doing well over the limit, and twice i passed them as they slowed down to chat away on their mobile phones, same applied to the young lady in her VW golf who nearly side swiped me as she searched in her bag to get her phone. Why, why, when for £5 plus you can get hands free kits ? I wonder how many the police inj Scotland caught on Monday during their crackdown.
Made it to "The Heath" at Runcorn ( see next blog), and then headed home. Lots and lots of caravans and camper vans on the road and those being towed by the "Chelsea Tractors" were certainly doing more than sensible speeds.
Having ranted and raved about white vans, the worst offender of the day was a boy racer in a shiny red VW Golf. I had turned off at Moffat onto the A701 and was heading north in a group of four cars all keeping up a steady pace and no heroics. I was nearly home, when on some bad bends near to Leadburn x roads this maniac came out of nowhere nearly taking out two of the four cars in the group as he tried to overtake us on the bends and was forced to cut in by oncoming traffic. Not content he was still keen to get on as we neared Leadburn but was forced to stay in line, last I saw of this bespectacled, baseball wearing youth was him shooting across the cross roads causing two cars to brake and swerve to avoid him. Last person to try that missed the junction, drove into the front of the Hotel , his car blew up and the hotel was burnt down and later demolished. I thought I had managed to get a photo of him, but camera angle was too high - pity.
10 minutes later, home in one piece.
Left at 4.45 a.m. and headed to Glasgow on the M8, and it was not long before the 1st white van passed me going like a steam train, I thought I was driving with the handbrake on. Before long there was a steady procession, some one eyed (headlight), which is even worse when they come thumping up behind you, not so bad when road is quiet but when it is busy you are forced to give way to them.
Met Fraser at Glasgow and even had the car checked out by the Police !! Fraser is a motor cycle fan and recently did a flier over a car whose driver was not paying attention, so after some recuperation got a new bike and is back on the road again.
Headed south, and as daylight appeared so did the "loonies", white van men, boy and girl racers, it seems that everyone races to get to work early, probably to have a fag before going into the office. Twice I was passed by big "sprinter vans" doing well over the limit, and twice i passed them as they slowed down to chat away on their mobile phones, same applied to the young lady in her VW golf who nearly side swiped me as she searched in her bag to get her phone. Why, why, when for £5 plus you can get hands free kits ? I wonder how many the police inj Scotland caught on Monday during their crackdown.
Made it to "The Heath" at Runcorn ( see next blog), and then headed home. Lots and lots of caravans and camper vans on the road and those being towed by the "Chelsea Tractors" were certainly doing more than sensible speeds.
Having ranted and raved about white vans, the worst offender of the day was a boy racer in a shiny red VW Golf. I had turned off at Moffat onto the A701 and was heading north in a group of four cars all keeping up a steady pace and no heroics. I was nearly home, when on some bad bends near to Leadburn x roads this maniac came out of nowhere nearly taking out two of the four cars in the group as he tried to overtake us on the bends and was forced to cut in by oncoming traffic. Not content he was still keen to get on as we neared Leadburn but was forced to stay in line, last I saw of this bespectacled, baseball wearing youth was him shooting across the cross roads causing two cars to brake and swerve to avoid him. Last person to try that missed the junction, drove into the front of the Hotel , his car blew up and the hotel was burnt down and later demolished. I thought I had managed to get a photo of him, but camera angle was too high - pity.
10 minutes later, home in one piece.
How sad is this?
Here is what I have just sent to Bob m. for this morning show, sent at 4.30 a.m. !!!!!!
Bob
By the time you read this out ( 8.15 a.m. hopefully) I should, with a good tail wind, be cruising through Cumbria or Lancashire on the M6 trying to avoid being doinged by the radar vans en route. Got a wee job to do in Runcorn, Cheshire and then back home via Glasgow.
Early start, but unlike yourself I just cannot cope with getting up at 4.30 a.m., I have been lying watching the clock most of the night in case I slept in!! and ended up sitting writing this at 4.15 a.m.
Yesterday was a nightmare, I ended up helping in the kitchen for five hours, "hells kitchen", it is no wonder Chefs end up fighting with each other or taking to drink. From now on I will have the utmost of respect for any kitchen staff and fully appreciate the pressures they are under.
Will you wish Big Chris (and Ailsa) all the best, they are off to Spain for a well earned break.
Cheers,
Bob
By the time you read this out ( 8.15 a.m. hopefully) I should, with a good tail wind, be cruising through Cumbria or Lancashire on the M6 trying to avoid being doinged by the radar vans en route. Got a wee job to do in Runcorn, Cheshire and then back home via Glasgow.
Early start, but unlike yourself I just cannot cope with getting up at 4.30 a.m., I have been lying watching the clock most of the night in case I slept in!! and ended up sitting writing this at 4.15 a.m.
Yesterday was a nightmare, I ended up helping in the kitchen for five hours, "hells kitchen", it is no wonder Chefs end up fighting with each other or taking to drink. From now on I will have the utmost of respect for any kitchen staff and fully appreciate the pressures they are under.
Will you wish Big Chris (and Ailsa) all the best, they are off to Spain for a well earned break.
Cheers,
Off now to Glasgow to meet up with Fraser, a colleague and collect some work which I need down south - long day ahead.
Monday, 27 August 2007
Hells Kitchen
What a nightmare today, not feeling 100 % as reported earlier, but decided to go into town on the bus, using the magic bus pass, to collect the car.
Went into The Mercat and discovered that there were only two staff on, one in kitchen, other in bar, as young Paddy had slept in. So nothing else for it but to get stuck into the sink and do some dishes - bad move. Two hours later Paddy arrived, and another two hours later the back shift of Stuart, David and Dreever appeared and I was finally able to escape.
I can only say that from now on, the chefs and any kitchen staff in any kitchen deserve a medal, it is high pressure stuff when the meals are being rattled through, especially in a kitchen where they use fresh food and have to prepare everything from scratch. Totally different ball game to those who use pre made meals and use the "ding" method of cooking.
Just leave me back behind the bar, pulling pints and arguing with the punters.
When I did eventually retrieve the car and get home there was a new programme on BBC 2 called " Kitchen Criminals", on every night this week - I can now sympathise with them.
Chris and Ailsa are off on holiday on Tuesday for a well earned break in the sun, hope they both have a nice time.
Early night tonight as I am off down south at 5 a.m. tomorrow.
I see there were some comments on this morning blog, as expected Mr A. F. did not let me down !!! just has no class the boy.
Went into The Mercat and discovered that there were only two staff on, one in kitchen, other in bar, as young Paddy had slept in. So nothing else for it but to get stuck into the sink and do some dishes - bad move. Two hours later Paddy arrived, and another two hours later the back shift of Stuart, David and Dreever appeared and I was finally able to escape.
I can only say that from now on, the chefs and any kitchen staff in any kitchen deserve a medal, it is high pressure stuff when the meals are being rattled through, especially in a kitchen where they use fresh food and have to prepare everything from scratch. Totally different ball game to those who use pre made meals and use the "ding" method of cooking.
Just leave me back behind the bar, pulling pints and arguing with the punters.
When I did eventually retrieve the car and get home there was a new programme on BBC 2 called " Kitchen Criminals", on every night this week - I can now sympathise with them.
Chris and Ailsa are off on holiday on Tuesday for a well earned break in the sun, hope they both have a nice time.
Early night tonight as I am off down south at 5 a.m. tomorrow.
I see there were some comments on this morning blog, as expected Mr A. F. did not let me down !!! just has no class the boy.
Scott Monument
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Found this picture of the Scott Monument, referred to in a previous blog.
Thought you might like it.
Still trying to ge the hang of transferring photos.
Will now move to a new title for todays news.
Just ever so delicate this morning.
Sunday was a bit hectic once I got on the move.
11 a.m. Had committee meeting for the O.S.M. at Gorebridge so it was a quick scoot over the back road from Penicuik, via Temple, lots of fishermen out on the reservoirs.
1.30 p.m. back to get changed and took Ann and Mark (Captain Calamity) into town to the BBQ at The Courtyard. Mark is so laid back that if they ever ban "vertical" drinking it will not be a problem for him.
The BBQ, well, over one hundred folk appeared to support the event organised by the East of Scotland Licensed Trade Assoc. Chefs had a good selection on the grill. The singer was great, everyone was singing along as he belted out Elvis, Queen, and lots of Golden Oldies.
I think that nearly everyone had a good time, I took lots of photos, many of the sneaky ones when folks were not paying attention so there will be a few unusual pics for SLTA folks to choose from for their magazine.
Good to see Eduardo and Vanessa, Sandra and Gordon; Lilian and Kenny (on the mend again) and many more of Graham's friends. ( Chris, Ailsa, Rob, Caitlin, Squirrel; Mikey, Graham, Brenda, Tam, Elizabeth , Catherine and the wonderful Mary Moriaty.
Mark was dragged off by Jamie Lloyd and two young ladies to see "Razorlight" at Meadowbank, he had no idea who or what they were, but neither did I. He is currently M.I.A.
Andy F. (a poor, sad, Dunfermline supporter) had better keep a low profile !!!
Big thank you to Tam and Catherine for driving Ann and me home, it is a serious detour going from Edinburgh to Musselburgh via Penicuik. Looking forward to seeing Tam's handiwork when he gets my Web site up and running . "StuartBlaikie.com"
Bob read out a brief E mail this morning.
11 a.m. Had committee meeting for the O.S.M. at Gorebridge so it was a quick scoot over the back road from Penicuik, via Temple, lots of fishermen out on the reservoirs.
1.30 p.m. back to get changed and took Ann and Mark (Captain Calamity) into town to the BBQ at The Courtyard. Mark is so laid back that if they ever ban "vertical" drinking it will not be a problem for him.
The BBQ, well, over one hundred folk appeared to support the event organised by the East of Scotland Licensed Trade Assoc. Chefs had a good selection on the grill. The singer was great, everyone was singing along as he belted out Elvis, Queen, and lots of Golden Oldies.
I think that nearly everyone had a good time, I took lots of photos, many of the sneaky ones when folks were not paying attention so there will be a few unusual pics for SLTA folks to choose from for their magazine.
Good to see Eduardo and Vanessa, Sandra and Gordon; Lilian and Kenny (on the mend again) and many more of Graham's friends. ( Chris, Ailsa, Rob, Caitlin, Squirrel; Mikey, Graham, Brenda, Tam, Elizabeth , Catherine and the wonderful Mary Moriaty.
Mark was dragged off by Jamie Lloyd and two young ladies to see "Razorlight" at Meadowbank, he had no idea who or what they were, but neither did I. He is currently M.I.A.
Andy F. (a poor, sad, Dunfermline supporter) had better keep a low profile !!!
Big thank you to Tam and Catherine for driving Ann and me home, it is a serious detour going from Edinburgh to Musselburgh via Penicuik. Looking forward to seeing Tam's handiwork when he gets my Web site up and running . "StuartBlaikie.com"
Bob read out a brief E mail this morning.
Sunday, 26 August 2007
Skinny dipping
Great excitement this morning, a most unusual occurrence.
budgie actually let me hold his bowl while he had a bath, normally he will only allow Ann this privilege. He was obviously in need of a good bath and afterwards his feathers and wings were so heavy he kept crash landing on the floor and had to be assisted onto his perch. Now a happy chappie, clean as a whistle with his cage also cleaned out and feeders full - "what more can a man wish for"
budgie actually let me hold his bowl while he had a bath, normally he will only allow Ann this privilege. He was obviously in need of a good bath and afterwards his feathers and wings were so heavy he kept crash landing on the floor and had to be assisted onto his perch. Now a happy chappie, clean as a whistle with his cage also cleaned out and feeders full - "what more can a man wish for"
An evening at The Sportsman's Bar
Just a wee bit tired having made it to bed at 3 a.m. , bumped into Graham when I arrived home. He was just home having spent the entire day at "The Mercat" apart from the couple of hours he was at Murryfield watching Scotland fail at the hands of South Africa.
Anyway, Shaun and myself took over from Robbie the Aussie and Michelle. A nice group of regulars present most having enjoyed and being reasonably happy about the football results, other the Hearts supporters who had lost 5 - 0 to Celtic, but the banter was OK, all being friends so there was a general wind up with comments such as "give us a high five", Kevin, Darren, Colin, Kirsten,
Crowd away golfing to Marbella including Jackie Macnamara and Jess @ "Murphy", so sales of Glayva will be down dramatically.
"Karaoke" Ann appeared at 9 p.m. and soon had the singers on their feet Paul @"Peas" did his usual two numbers before leaving with Julie ; "Wee Paul" arrived late, but stayed later than usual. There were some good singers and some some who needed a bit more practice..
Joined on the bar by Wee Karen and Elaine, who kept Shaun going and did well with a good humoured crowd. Couple of new faces and many regulars missing, but a nice atmosphere.
Pauline arrived and apologised for accidentally wakening me at 1.05 a.m., Stuart ( chef) was suffering at the hands of a couple of young ladies!!!.
Shut the bar at 12.40 a.m. the place emptied itself without any fuss. Big Karen @ Kaz, wee Karen and Pauline were off "up the town" so Kevin F just had to tag along to keep them right - good lad, doubtless all will be suffering now.
Its is a lovely morning, sunshining , budgie going daft waining for his breakfast and making his presence felt as he zooms around the conservatory - he only stays in his cage overnight, rest of the time has freedom of the house.
Have a masonic committee meeting at Gorebridge this morning and then off to a BBQ at the Courtyard bar, Bonnington Lane , later.
Anyway, Shaun and myself took over from Robbie the Aussie and Michelle. A nice group of regulars present most having enjoyed and being reasonably happy about the football results, other the Hearts supporters who had lost 5 - 0 to Celtic, but the banter was OK, all being friends so there was a general wind up with comments such as "give us a high five", Kevin, Darren, Colin, Kirsten,
Crowd away golfing to Marbella including Jackie Macnamara and Jess @ "Murphy", so sales of Glayva will be down dramatically.
"Karaoke" Ann appeared at 9 p.m. and soon had the singers on their feet Paul @"Peas" did his usual two numbers before leaving with Julie ; "Wee Paul" arrived late, but stayed later than usual. There were some good singers and some some who needed a bit more practice..
Joined on the bar by Wee Karen and Elaine, who kept Shaun going and did well with a good humoured crowd. Couple of new faces and many regulars missing, but a nice atmosphere.
Pauline arrived and apologised for accidentally wakening me at 1.05 a.m., Stuart ( chef) was suffering at the hands of a couple of young ladies!!!.
Shut the bar at 12.40 a.m. the place emptied itself without any fuss. Big Karen @ Kaz, wee Karen and Pauline were off "up the town" so Kevin F just had to tag along to keep them right - good lad, doubtless all will be suffering now.
Its is a lovely morning, sunshining , budgie going daft waining for his breakfast and making his presence felt as he zooms around the conservatory - he only stays in his cage overnight, rest of the time has freedom of the house.
Have a masonic committee meeting at Gorebridge this morning and then off to a BBQ at the Courtyard bar, Bonnington Lane , later.
Saturday, 25 August 2007
Early morning notes
Just some notes, whole house in an uproar today, everyone up at 6.30 a.m. and Graham off to work early. Not enough time to get anthing down properly as I was off to Cash and Carry for the Mercat.
1. Samoan rugby team were training in the field opposite on Friday morning and I did not get a photo, they were playing Edinburgh District at night. I thought it was the Fijian team made up with soldiers from the Glencorse Depot. Shame.
2. Who phoned at 1.05 a.m. this morning, I was in a nice deep sleep and phones went everywhere, Mrs. B. went mental. Turns out is was Pauline Black, who has three different Stuart's in her phone.
3. Spoke with Mr. Robert Malcolm last night who has eaten all his sardines and is fishing for trout for his dinner during the rest of the week.
4. Horror movies, "SAW lll" was selected by RGB last night,but I did not watch it , terrible sick people who make these, just as bad to buy and watch them!! Mrs B . was watching ( through her fingers).
5. Pile drivers in the city - certainly will need earplugs and disprin if you live in the Fountainbridge area, it is a wonder that the houses are not cracking up with the vibrations.
6. Disappearing socks - just where do they go, explode, disintegrate, or the fairies. It is a mystery where these socks go, you put in so many pairs but never ever get the same number back. It is like these appliance manufacturers who I suspect fit microchips into systems so that they fail after the warranty has run out, especially if you have not taken them up on their expensive extended warranties.
7. Archers were out in the playing field today, appeared to be a local competition,normally there are a lot more there, qite spectacular in fact. Have taken a photo and will try and include it shortly.
Bye
1. Samoan rugby team were training in the field opposite on Friday morning and I did not get a photo, they were playing Edinburgh District at night. I thought it was the Fijian team made up with soldiers from the Glencorse Depot. Shame.
2. Who phoned at 1.05 a.m. this morning, I was in a nice deep sleep and phones went everywhere, Mrs. B. went mental. Turns out is was Pauline Black, who has three different Stuart's in her phone.
3. Spoke with Mr. Robert Malcolm last night who has eaten all his sardines and is fishing for trout for his dinner during the rest of the week.
4. Horror movies, "SAW lll" was selected by RGB last night,but I did not watch it , terrible sick people who make these, just as bad to buy and watch them!! Mrs B . was watching ( through her fingers).
5. Pile drivers in the city - certainly will need earplugs and disprin if you live in the Fountainbridge area, it is a wonder that the houses are not cracking up with the vibrations.
6. Disappearing socks - just where do they go, explode, disintegrate, or the fairies. It is a mystery where these socks go, you put in so many pairs but never ever get the same number back. It is like these appliance manufacturers who I suspect fit microchips into systems so that they fail after the warranty has run out, especially if you have not taken them up on their expensive extended warranties.
7. Archers were out in the playing field today, appeared to be a local competition,normally there are a lot more there, qite spectacular in fact. Have taken a photo and will try and include it shortly.
Bye
Friday, 24 August 2007
She may be small.
Had yet another row from Kirren / or is it Kerrin for getting her name wrong once again. She is little but rather a fearsome person when she gets angry.
Despite this she has asked me to be her guinea pig at college (or the big school as Robbie calls it)where she is doing " massage" and nail extensions this year, the massage I have no problem with having experienced many different types during our travels around the world. But nail extensions, no - hair maybe !!
Despite this she has asked me to be her guinea pig at college (or the big school as Robbie calls it)where she is doing " massage" and nail extensions this year, the massage I have no problem with having experienced many different types during our travels around the world. But nail extensions, no - hair maybe !!
A wee experiment
OK, going to mess about and try put a photo in !!
Well done me,. managed to get the "psycho" budgie into print after a couple of tries.
At the moment he is doing back flips as Graham is tormenting the living daylights out of him / or her , as we have now no idea what sex it is and he/ she answers to bluey and boaz.
Will close on this one and add a wee short one.
A day in the pub
It is now several days since I worked a full shift in The Sportsmans, and today was the day.
Down for 10 a.m., as the place was cleanand tidy, Chick have been in doing the business during the early hours. All set up and doors open on the note of 11 p.m. ( Town hall clock). fairly quiet morning, Rob and Ian were in for their usual tipples and a wee chat, hard for me to hear at times with music in the background, other folks talking and quiet speakers.
Anyway the day went well, got a few jobs done, and had everything organised by the time Rob appeared at 4.p.m.
Keith (Hi there), our resident computer expert has been reading this "blog" along with Brian's good lady Janet - so they were abreast of all our goings on. Keith must get fed with me as I am always asking him about the many "gremlins" which keep appearing in this lap top. Brian is our TV expert, he has all the TV's sussed and the various remote controls so when one of the staff get muddled Brian sorts it all out.
Came home the back road via Whitecraig and Dalkeith, now two lots of temp traffic lights but massive changes in the roadworks around the new Dalkeith by pass.
Controvesy - with the increase in violence, highlight being the murder of the 11 yr old Ryees Jones in Liverpool, and general street disorder, has the pendulum not swung far to far in favour of the criminal and not the victim. The so called European Bill of Human Rights has done nothing but cause us problems.
There was another serious assault in The Stand, Musselburgh, last night with a 50 + man being struck in the face with a glass or bottle, assaulted by a well known local youth who has apparantly just gone completely off the rails.
Mobile phones - not just the use by drivers behind the wheel, there are many different types of hands free kits available. But see more and more often workmen downing tools to take calls when they should be working, this morning it was a bucket motor (again) with one man standing along the street chatting on the phone and the motor with driver and colleague sitting idle waiting for him.
We are going to be hard pushed next week, Claire, Chef is off to Arran with ma, grandad, brother Graham, sister in law and baby, Hope she has made the pies before she leaves.
Time to break.
Down for 10 a.m., as the place was cleanand tidy, Chick have been in doing the business during the early hours. All set up and doors open on the note of 11 p.m. ( Town hall clock). fairly quiet morning, Rob and Ian were in for their usual tipples and a wee chat, hard for me to hear at times with music in the background, other folks talking and quiet speakers.
Anyway the day went well, got a few jobs done, and had everything organised by the time Rob appeared at 4.p.m.
Keith (Hi there), our resident computer expert has been reading this "blog" along with Brian's good lady Janet - so they were abreast of all our goings on. Keith must get fed with me as I am always asking him about the many "gremlins" which keep appearing in this lap top. Brian is our TV expert, he has all the TV's sussed and the various remote controls so when one of the staff get muddled Brian sorts it all out.
Came home the back road via Whitecraig and Dalkeith, now two lots of temp traffic lights but massive changes in the roadworks around the new Dalkeith by pass.
Controvesy - with the increase in violence, highlight being the murder of the 11 yr old Ryees Jones in Liverpool, and general street disorder, has the pendulum not swung far to far in favour of the criminal and not the victim. The so called European Bill of Human Rights has done nothing but cause us problems.
There was another serious assault in The Stand, Musselburgh, last night with a 50 + man being struck in the face with a glass or bottle, assaulted by a well known local youth who has apparantly just gone completely off the rails.
Mobile phones - not just the use by drivers behind the wheel, there are many different types of hands free kits available. But see more and more often workmen downing tools to take calls when they should be working, this morning it was a bucket motor (again) with one man standing along the street chatting on the phone and the motor with driver and colleague sitting idle waiting for him.
We are going to be hard pushed next week, Claire, Chef is off to Arran with ma, grandad, brother Graham, sister in law and baby, Hope she has made the pies before she leaves.
Time to break.
Now in a rush
Wee problem so i have to skip the chat, todays letter to Bob
feeling a bit off this morning, rough night with bad dreams and leg cramps.
Good weather yesterday so hit the town to catch a few more fringe happenings. But first we had to go to Frasers at the West End, so say Hi to the smelly girls in cosmetics and to Gillian in "Gerulin" who was having trouble with her drawers - not enough room to get the new stock in11
The Mound and the Gardens were just great, it is only when you really take time that you appreciate the passion, enthusiasum and skills that many of these performers have - a bit like yourself !!
Back to work today for the weekend, lots to do between The Mercat and Musselburgh, Claire is making some lovely special pies for us for Saturday, not quite as good as the Rommano crowd are going to have, but I have tickets for a fundraising / social BBQ at The Courtyard Bar, Bonnington, on Sunday afternoon.
Hope you and your listeners have a nice weekend.
feeling a bit off this morning, rough night with bad dreams and leg cramps.
Good weather yesterday so hit the town to catch a few more fringe happenings. But first we had to go to Frasers at the West End, so say Hi to the smelly girls in cosmetics and to Gillian in "Gerulin" who was having trouble with her drawers - not enough room to get the new stock in11
The Mound and the Gardens were just great, it is only when you really take time that you appreciate the passion, enthusiasum and skills that many of these performers have - a bit like yourself !!
Back to work today for the weekend, lots to do between The Mercat and Musselburgh, Claire is making some lovely special pies for us for Saturday, not quite as good as the Rommano crowd are going to have, but I have tickets for a fundraising / social BBQ at The Courtyard Bar, Bonnington, on Sunday afternoon.
Hope you and your listeners have a nice weekend.
Thursday, 23 August 2007
Todays bit and bobs
Been a good day, will start with Bob's note, it is just a pity is a bit of duplication taken from yesterdays events.
2 nd sunny day on the trot - what is happening?
Yesterday turned out to be very pleasant. As planned we went to The Mercat for my steak and egg breakfast ( with a glass of wine), the chef Clair made a lovely strawberry cake for Ann.
From there to chill out at Ocean Terminal where I had a superb deep tissue back massage with paraffin wax, Ann had her face tweeked but there was "an administrative error" so she never got her feet done. What a pantomime, your ladies will know what it is like to feel naked in the street, with no nail varnish on their toes !!
Never mind, up to Princes Street and watched the aborigine musician by the Scott Monument playing with his "diggeri doos" in public !!!
Then met up with Archie and Tracy with wee Cameron at The Standing Order, they had come over on their day off to meet us and had a very nice bottle of "Tattinger Brut" on ice. Being a nice afternoon/ evening we all went into the gardens where the three girls had a shot on the Carousel , no idea what the odds were on those horses - so not worth a bet today.
Finished off with pizza and wine in the Grassmarket.
It was a nice day, couple of things got my dander up, but I will keep the controversy for later.
O.K . back to today,
Just a reminder, we were watching the programme, Tribes, on Tuesday night and budgie went berserk, he was responding to all the animal sounds on the TV - quite funny.
Anyway, today, got a lift into Mercat and then walked along to Fraser's Store in princess Street. While Ann went rummaging i had a blether to Gillian and the girls on the cosmetics ( Guerlin !!) counter, which saved me from trailing around the building.
Into the gardens just wandering, up to the S.O. for coffee and wine, then back into the gardens via M &S foodstore for sandwiches.
We sat in the east gardens beside the Scott Monument, 200ft 6 ins high ( 61 m) opened in 1846, but the architect George Meikle Kemp died in 1844 when he tripped in a fog and fell into the Union Canal and drowned. having walked past, driven by , etc for years you really have to sit down and look at it, it is wonderful, with either 64 or 67 figurines depending on whose account you read, all representing characters in Sir Walter Scott's novels.
I actually sat in the brilliant sunshine for about two hours, listening to the Aborigine musicians again, but in the background there were bagpipes, drums, flutes, singers, etc, just a real blend of music. In addition, many , many different accents of the visitors passing, it was just very interesting sitting, listening, watching - and eventually dozing off.
Needing revived and feeling a bit flush, we went into the Balmoral Hotel, where we had wonderful coffee and shortcake in the drawing room - very restful, but I did draw the line at afternoon tea (£21) per head. It was not that bad, by using my bus pass I saved a £1 which went towards the cost of the coffee. ( Miserable person)
Big strike on in Edinburgh, council workers against proposed cuts in the workforce and a rally of parents protesting about future school closures.
Today's grump's, the number of obstacles the council and bus company are erecting on the pavements . They have a cheek to complain about traders putting their goods and signs out, but they seem to feel totally immune to same.
Litter in Princes Street gardens, - the tourists, visitors, are really good and bag up their rubbish and when the bins are full, place it beside the bins. There was one park ranger trying his best to dispose of the rubbish, the other was chasing away some of the performers, but where were the bin men - striking!! I need to be fair here, I am annoyed about the five man team we witnessed yesterday in Shandwick Place , however, i have friends in both Midlothian and East lothian who work the big bin lorries and they are hard working and very conscientious.
2 nd sunny day on the trot - what is happening?
Yesterday turned out to be very pleasant. As planned we went to The Mercat for my steak and egg breakfast ( with a glass of wine), the chef Clair made a lovely strawberry cake for Ann.
From there to chill out at Ocean Terminal where I had a superb deep tissue back massage with paraffin wax, Ann had her face tweeked but there was "an administrative error" so she never got her feet done. What a pantomime, your ladies will know what it is like to feel naked in the street, with no nail varnish on their toes !!
Never mind, up to Princes Street and watched the aborigine musician by the Scott Monument playing with his "diggeri doos" in public !!!
Then met up with Archie and Tracy with wee Cameron at The Standing Order, they had come over on their day off to meet us and had a very nice bottle of "Tattinger Brut" on ice. Being a nice afternoon/ evening we all went into the gardens where the three girls had a shot on the Carousel , no idea what the odds were on those horses - so not worth a bet today.
Finished off with pizza and wine in the Grassmarket.
It was a nice day, couple of things got my dander up, but I will keep the controversy for later.
O.K . back to today,
Just a reminder, we were watching the programme, Tribes, on Tuesday night and budgie went berserk, he was responding to all the animal sounds on the TV - quite funny.
Anyway, today, got a lift into Mercat and then walked along to Fraser's Store in princess Street. While Ann went rummaging i had a blether to Gillian and the girls on the cosmetics ( Guerlin !!) counter, which saved me from trailing around the building.
Into the gardens just wandering, up to the S.O. for coffee and wine, then back into the gardens via M &S foodstore for sandwiches.
We sat in the east gardens beside the Scott Monument, 200ft 6 ins high ( 61 m) opened in 1846, but the architect George Meikle Kemp died in 1844 when he tripped in a fog and fell into the Union Canal and drowned. having walked past, driven by , etc for years you really have to sit down and look at it, it is wonderful, with either 64 or 67 figurines depending on whose account you read, all representing characters in Sir Walter Scott's novels.
I actually sat in the brilliant sunshine for about two hours, listening to the Aborigine musicians again, but in the background there were bagpipes, drums, flutes, singers, etc, just a real blend of music. In addition, many , many different accents of the visitors passing, it was just very interesting sitting, listening, watching - and eventually dozing off.
Needing revived and feeling a bit flush, we went into the Balmoral Hotel, where we had wonderful coffee and shortcake in the drawing room - very restful, but I did draw the line at afternoon tea (£21) per head. It was not that bad, by using my bus pass I saved a £1 which went towards the cost of the coffee. ( Miserable person)
Big strike on in Edinburgh, council workers against proposed cuts in the workforce and a rally of parents protesting about future school closures.
Today's grump's, the number of obstacles the council and bus company are erecting on the pavements . They have a cheek to complain about traders putting their goods and signs out, but they seem to feel totally immune to same.
Litter in Princes Street gardens, - the tourists, visitors, are really good and bag up their rubbish and when the bins are full, place it beside the bins. There was one park ranger trying his best to dispose of the rubbish, the other was chasing away some of the performers, but where were the bin men - striking!! I need to be fair here, I am annoyed about the five man team we witnessed yesterday in Shandwick Place , however, i have friends in both Midlothian and East lothian who work the big bin lorries and they are hard working and very conscientious.
Wednesday, 22 August 2007
Long day but good
Evening, ready to go to bed, been a long day, good but we are shattered.
Firstly, spoke to Grant who manged to retrieve some of his lost work, but has not yet finished the job.
Went to town with graham, had a steak and egg, wine, breakfast at The mercat, and the most beautiful cake, frshly made as a surprise by Claire.
Then headed off to Ocean Terminal by bus, en route watched an Edinburgh Council cleansing motor, one of the small ones which empty the litter bins, SB06WBN, two men on the pavement, three (inclusive of driver) in cab, and the driver was chatting away on a mobile phone - and this I the council who want to make cuts in Education and Social Work .
Just as bad in leith Walk where theyare causing chaos doing work relating to the new tram ilines, two sets of road works, at one, there were two me, one lying dozing in the cab of his mini digger, the other was sitting in the sun on a pile of muck drinking tea (1155) and at the other , five men just staring into the hole in the road - none of these guys would survive if they were self employed.
Anyway, went for out Spa treatments at Pure Spa, had a lovely deep tissue massage with hot oils and paraffin wax, Ann had a facial but they had forgotton that she was due another treatment so we sat for 50 mins then got fed up, had words and eventually had to leave.
Bought a copy of Robert Coopers book, "The Rosslyn Hoax".
Met up with Archie, Tracy and wee Cameron at the Standing Order, where they had a lovely bottle of Tattinger Brut on ice for us. Sat for a while then we all went down to the Princes Street Gardens where "the girls " had a go on the Carousel and swings. From there, round to the Grassmarket, stopped for pizza and drinks and just to people watch it being such a lovely night.
Aound 9 p.m. made it to the bus and home. Very nice day.
Just watching the documentary about the death of Princess Diana, and the news photographers who are nothing but predators.
Firstly, spoke to Grant who manged to retrieve some of his lost work, but has not yet finished the job.
Went to town with graham, had a steak and egg, wine, breakfast at The mercat, and the most beautiful cake, frshly made as a surprise by Claire.
Then headed off to Ocean Terminal by bus, en route watched an Edinburgh Council cleansing motor, one of the small ones which empty the litter bins, SB06WBN, two men on the pavement, three (inclusive of driver) in cab, and the driver was chatting away on a mobile phone - and this I the council who want to make cuts in Education and Social Work .
Just as bad in leith Walk where theyare causing chaos doing work relating to the new tram ilines, two sets of road works, at one, there were two me, one lying dozing in the cab of his mini digger, the other was sitting in the sun on a pile of muck drinking tea (1155) and at the other , five men just staring into the hole in the road - none of these guys would survive if they were self employed.
Anyway, went for out Spa treatments at Pure Spa, had a lovely deep tissue massage with hot oils and paraffin wax, Ann had a facial but they had forgotton that she was due another treatment so we sat for 50 mins then got fed up, had words and eventually had to leave.
Bought a copy of Robert Coopers book, "The Rosslyn Hoax".
Met up with Archie, Tracy and wee Cameron at the Standing Order, where they had a lovely bottle of Tattinger Brut on ice for us. Sat for a while then we all went down to the Princes Street Gardens where "the girls " had a go on the Carousel and swings. From there, round to the Grassmarket, stopped for pizza and drinks and just to people watch it being such a lovely night.
Aound 9 p.m. made it to the bus and home. Very nice day.
Just watching the documentary about the death of Princess Diana, and the news photographers who are nothing but predators.
Wedding anniversary
Wahta beautiful morning, bright sunshine here, although I hear that Edinburgh is shrouded in mist.
37 years married , despite Ann's best efforts to convince me it was only 34 because she had forgotton my card and used an old one. We have a nice day out planned .
You know, I am typing this and in the background the Council recycling lorry has appeared and there is a terrible racket of glass being smashed, etc. last thing you need for frayed nerves.
Today letter to Bob
What a story today. - Yesterday being awful weather I went to see my mate Grant at Bonnyrigg, disturbed him on his computer causing him to press the wrong button and lose FOUR hours work - he was a bit upset.( Mild understatement) His tropical fish had just died but unlike you or your posh friends in Romanno Towers he does not have a BBQ.
Later, Ann did not know what she wanted for tea and was not keen on the idea of your reheated sardines, plus wih a puncture I could not cycle up to Carlops. You know I have never ever had a sardine, just did not like the look of them. Was once offered them fresh off the boat on the grill at Portimo but still resisted.
ANYWAY, today is our 37th wedding anniversary, 37 yrs without a wrong word ( hearing aid switched off), so last night bought flowers at Tesco, hid them in the garage for this morning but - left the garage door open and something has eaten the heads off them.
Gave Ann a lovely card, she gave me one which said Happy THIRTY FOURTH - I said that she had made a mistake, eventually she admitted that she had not bought me one but had used an old one.
We are off to town, Graham treating us to breakfast at the Mercat, then off for some beauty treatments, Ann is getting her face and feet tweeked while I get a quick rub down. And at 4 p.m. Archie at the Standing Order has promised us a wee surprise treat.
I am looking forward to my day out.
Stuart
37 years married , despite Ann's best efforts to convince me it was only 34 because she had forgotton my card and used an old one. We have a nice day out planned .
You know, I am typing this and in the background the Council recycling lorry has appeared and there is a terrible racket of glass being smashed, etc. last thing you need for frayed nerves.
Today letter to Bob
What a story today. - Yesterday being awful weather I went to see my mate Grant at Bonnyrigg, disturbed him on his computer causing him to press the wrong button and lose FOUR hours work - he was a bit upset.( Mild understatement) His tropical fish had just died but unlike you or your posh friends in Romanno Towers he does not have a BBQ.
Later, Ann did not know what she wanted for tea and was not keen on the idea of your reheated sardines, plus wih a puncture I could not cycle up to Carlops. You know I have never ever had a sardine, just did not like the look of them. Was once offered them fresh off the boat on the grill at Portimo but still resisted.
ANYWAY, today is our 37th wedding anniversary, 37 yrs without a wrong word ( hearing aid switched off), so last night bought flowers at Tesco, hid them in the garage for this morning but - left the garage door open and something has eaten the heads off them.
Gave Ann a lovely card, she gave me one which said Happy THIRTY FOURTH - I said that she had made a mistake, eventually she admitted that she had not bought me one but had used an old one.
We are off to town, Graham treating us to breakfast at the Mercat, then off for some beauty treatments, Ann is getting her face and feet tweeked while I get a quick rub down. And at 4 p.m. Archie at the Standing Order has promised us a wee surprise treat.
I am looking forward to my day out.
Stuart
Tuesday, 21 August 2007
On a roll now
Ann returned home and I was working diligently, managing to get through some of my own work, bearing in mind that I actually do have a job of my own other than helpung Graham.
Being the very considerate person I am, ran a lovely hot bubble bath for Ann, then went off in search of something nice for dinner. (Tesco's).
Met Graham's pal, Ian Love @ Lovie, who is Manager of the Cuiken Inn, Penicuik, great lad who was one of my group many years ago on a Prince's Trust project. He and Graham took Ann and I out for dinner and the cinema one night - and used two for one vouchers for Pizza House and the Cinema !!
Eventually presented her with dinner and a glass of wine, (Blossom Hill white zinderfel), which is her favourite tipple which at 10% proof is ideal, bearing in mind that you should not drink on an empty head.
Dinner was new potatoes in butter, boiled (thin) leeks wrapped in honey ham, with roasted mushrooms stuffed with brie and topped with cheddar cheese. I had a nice oak aged "De Bortoli" Durif, Australian wine.
Ann thought I had arranged for someone to make it, eventually accepted that it was my work so apparantly from now on I am the cook.
Phone kept going with text messages and I am just not up to this new fangled technology. it was Archie and Tracey from the Standing order inviting us to a BBQ on the 8th, but as we are otherwise engaged not possible. BUT I did phone Archie, waste of time calling him on his land line, he is paranoid about telephone salesmen, so I had to phone him on his mobile to tell him to answer the phone.
Tracey is a bit silly, she has been unable to find this blog so far, so I can say anything - But she was a lovely bride when we were at their wedding in Barbados, no idea how she puts up with Archie. their daughter , Cameron, has a birthday one day before mine so we have joint parties, the bairn loves karaoke, beer, and a BBQ.
More pet hates - boy racers with loud music and cars and motorcycles with megaphone exhausts.
Likes - Highland Park whisky and Hendricks Gin.
Thought, I hope the weather is better in Edinburgh than it is here, Rob and Caitlin are going to the tattoo and it will be miserable sitting in the cold with a light drizzle.
Being the very considerate person I am, ran a lovely hot bubble bath for Ann, then went off in search of something nice for dinner. (Tesco's).
Met Graham's pal, Ian Love @ Lovie, who is Manager of the Cuiken Inn, Penicuik, great lad who was one of my group many years ago on a Prince's Trust project. He and Graham took Ann and I out for dinner and the cinema one night - and used two for one vouchers for Pizza House and the Cinema !!
Eventually presented her with dinner and a glass of wine, (Blossom Hill white zinderfel), which is her favourite tipple which at 10% proof is ideal, bearing in mind that you should not drink on an empty head.
Dinner was new potatoes in butter, boiled (thin) leeks wrapped in honey ham, with roasted mushrooms stuffed with brie and topped with cheddar cheese. I had a nice oak aged "De Bortoli" Durif, Australian wine.
Ann thought I had arranged for someone to make it, eventually accepted that it was my work so apparantly from now on I am the cook.
Phone kept going with text messages and I am just not up to this new fangled technology. it was Archie and Tracey from the Standing order inviting us to a BBQ on the 8th, but as we are otherwise engaged not possible. BUT I did phone Archie, waste of time calling him on his land line, he is paranoid about telephone salesmen, so I had to phone him on his mobile to tell him to answer the phone.
Tracey is a bit silly, she has been unable to find this blog so far, so I can say anything - But she was a lovely bride when we were at their wedding in Barbados, no idea how she puts up with Archie. their daughter , Cameron, has a birthday one day before mine so we have joint parties, the bairn loves karaoke, beer, and a BBQ.
More pet hates - boy racers with loud music and cars and motorcycles with megaphone exhausts.
Likes - Highland Park whisky and Hendricks Gin.
Thought, I hope the weather is better in Edinburgh than it is here, Rob and Caitlin are going to the tattoo and it will be miserable sitting in the cold with a light drizzle.
The best laid plans.
So much for , "I will get into the garden as it is going to me nice". Bit of a laugh looking at the Penicuik weather forecast which bears no resemblance to looking out the window. HOWEVER - at least we do not have Hurrican Dean on our doorstep dropping tons of water and causing havoc. Being flippant, just think of all those towels blowing about in Mexico, placed there by Germans booking sunbeds.
Anyway, Graham got up, growled as usual - had an intimate conversation with Bluey (budgie) who is seriously in love with him, then eventually conned me into taking him into The Mercat do do some work.
I headed out to Bonnyrigg to see my friend Grant at Photogenix, the whiz kid with photographs and all things techno. Bad move - had a look at his new motorbike in the street, walked into the shop and said "hello" or something like that and received an earfull !! I had given him a fright and he pressed the wrong button his computer and accidentally lost a job which he had spent four hours working on. Never mind, having done it once he should be able to do it quicker next time after all that practice.
He rattled off the pictures I had taken yesterday of the group from Irvine so they are away in the post.
He had a bereavment this morning - one of his tropical fish, bred from a tiddler to a two pounder was found dead in the tank, but he is not sure what kind of sauce to use with it this evening. Perhaps he should send it up to Bob Malcolm who plans to BBQ sardines in the rain at Carlops tonight (so he said on the radio this morning).
I also met an old colleague, former Police Sergeant William Carmichael, now eighty one years young and retired for over thirty years. When I worked with him in Bonnyrigg in the late '70's he was the real old school Policeman, a proper gent, a hard but fair boss. We had a wee blether and he although he has not been too well he is getting out and about, improving every day. I remember the boys saying that they had been with him at a retiral doo or social and he insisted on drinking half a pint of cola with his vodka, insisting that he would not get drunk as the alcohol was diluted - he drank the same number of rounds as everyone else !!
Listening to young Arlene Stuart doing her Festival show, looking forward to hearing "Mr Bouquet" this afternoon, but some good tunes in the hall of fame.
Anyway , better do some work before Ann comes back and catches me skiving.
Anyway, Graham got up, growled as usual - had an intimate conversation with Bluey (budgie) who is seriously in love with him, then eventually conned me into taking him into The Mercat do do some work.
I headed out to Bonnyrigg to see my friend Grant at Photogenix, the whiz kid with photographs and all things techno. Bad move - had a look at his new motorbike in the street, walked into the shop and said "hello" or something like that and received an earfull !! I had given him a fright and he pressed the wrong button his computer and accidentally lost a job which he had spent four hours working on. Never mind, having done it once he should be able to do it quicker next time after all that practice.
He rattled off the pictures I had taken yesterday of the group from Irvine so they are away in the post.
He had a bereavment this morning - one of his tropical fish, bred from a tiddler to a two pounder was found dead in the tank, but he is not sure what kind of sauce to use with it this evening. Perhaps he should send it up to Bob Malcolm who plans to BBQ sardines in the rain at Carlops tonight (so he said on the radio this morning).
I also met an old colleague, former Police Sergeant William Carmichael, now eighty one years young and retired for over thirty years. When I worked with him in Bonnyrigg in the late '70's he was the real old school Policeman, a proper gent, a hard but fair boss. We had a wee blether and he although he has not been too well he is getting out and about, improving every day. I remember the boys saying that they had been with him at a retiral doo or social and he insisted on drinking half a pint of cola with his vodka, insisting that he would not get drunk as the alcohol was diluted - he drank the same number of rounds as everyone else !!
Listening to young Arlene Stuart doing her Festival show, looking forward to hearing "Mr Bouquet" this afternoon, but some good tunes in the hall of fame.
Anyway , better do some work before Ann comes back and catches me skiving.
Aches and pains
Good morning,
feeling a bit sore this morning after my session in the garden last night, however, managed to get a lot done and will do more today if it stays clear for a while.
Had a couple of nice e mails last night, Liz Warham gave me a wee update on life in Forres and after many years of writing is getting one her books published on the web. Also friends in the USA who I spent time with a couple of years ago were in touch. Their son is now working in Mumbai, India, so if possible I will try and meet him for a chat when I am over there in November.
Morning letter to Bob Malcolm.
Have been listening to you since 6 a.m., you are so cheery and I have to say that Joanna sounds lovely.
That song "Sexual Healing" and your dirty laugh gave me the sex and lust theme for the day.
Yesterday I spent a few hours in the Sportsmans, and we had a lovely group drop in for a "wee refreshment", They were over from Irvine on a day trip. A couple of the ladies were looking for "Musselburgh rock", which I thought was was a long gone thing, but I wandered along to Luca's Ice cream parlour and found some !!!. I wonder if lettered rock tastes the same as non lettered, and do people still have piles of decaying rock lying in their attics. I mean what is the point in travelling miles to buy rock which tastes the same everywhere, then eat it !!
Bit of role reversal in our house, son - Graham keeps getting on at us, says it is time we settled down and behaved, he sounds like that actress who recently published the book about how to cope with "wayward parents",.
This is sad, took me ages to work it out. (Ken theme) "Ken him over there" As in Do you no KEN HIM OVER THERE.
Anyway, great excitement, big day tomorrow - but that will be another story.
Stuart
feeling a bit sore this morning after my session in the garden last night, however, managed to get a lot done and will do more today if it stays clear for a while.
Had a couple of nice e mails last night, Liz Warham gave me a wee update on life in Forres and after many years of writing is getting one her books published on the web. Also friends in the USA who I spent time with a couple of years ago were in touch. Their son is now working in Mumbai, India, so if possible I will try and meet him for a chat when I am over there in November.
Morning letter to Bob Malcolm.
Have been listening to you since 6 a.m., you are so cheery and I have to say that Joanna sounds lovely.
That song "Sexual Healing" and your dirty laugh gave me the sex and lust theme for the day.
Yesterday I spent a few hours in the Sportsmans, and we had a lovely group drop in for a "wee refreshment", They were over from Irvine on a day trip. A couple of the ladies were looking for "Musselburgh rock", which I thought was was a long gone thing, but I wandered along to Luca's Ice cream parlour and found some !!!. I wonder if lettered rock tastes the same as non lettered, and do people still have piles of decaying rock lying in their attics. I mean what is the point in travelling miles to buy rock which tastes the same everywhere, then eat it !!
Bit of role reversal in our house, son - Graham keeps getting on at us, says it is time we settled down and behaved, he sounds like that actress who recently published the book about how to cope with "wayward parents",.
This is sad, took me ages to work it out. (Ken theme) "Ken him over there" As in Do you no KEN HIM OVER THERE.
Anyway, great excitement, big day tomorrow - but that will be another story.
Stuart
Monday, 20 August 2007
May come up as a duplicate .
Posted this this morning I THOUGHT, but so far it has disappeared down the spout.
so here is this morning note to Bob Malcolm.
Morning Bob,
rather tired this morning after a long weekend working, these late nights ( 4 a.m.) are just as bad as early mornings when you cannot get a long lie, especially at my age.
Managed to taken in the new Jason Bourne movie on Friday before work, lots of action and violence , and with a tiny twist at the end.
Heard Paula Whitelock talking on the book fair show to an author who was saying that you need sex and lust to sell a book!!. I wondered how to raise the subject in this Blog, still thinking about it, Ann's suggestion of " mention Bob and Carol Ann" is not quite enough, but then I do not know what you wore to the BBQ.
Thanks to the Scottish Power guys for helping out yesterday afternoon - they did the biz.
Must dash, got my ironing to do!!!!
Cannot remember what else I said.
Anyway, have had a good day, went to the Sportsmans to do some work, had a lovely crowd in from irvine on a bus trip. Bought some Musselburgh rock for two ladies, did group photos, etc.
Made it home by 4.30p.m. and spent some time in the garden, very much needed as I have done nothing at all for months and it was really bad.
My mate Frank took the car away for a wee service tonight so it is ticking along nicely.
Edinburgh Council had a cheek, complained about rubbish lying out overnight, it had been there for four days as the bin men refused to collect it - soon shifted it today.
so here is this morning note to Bob Malcolm.
Morning Bob,
rather tired this morning after a long weekend working, these late nights ( 4 a.m.) are just as bad as early mornings when you cannot get a long lie, especially at my age.
Managed to taken in the new Jason Bourne movie on Friday before work, lots of action and violence , and with a tiny twist at the end.
Heard Paula Whitelock talking on the book fair show to an author who was saying that you need sex and lust to sell a book!!. I wondered how to raise the subject in this Blog, still thinking about it, Ann's suggestion of " mention Bob and Carol Ann" is not quite enough, but then I do not know what you wore to the BBQ.
Thanks to the Scottish Power guys for helping out yesterday afternoon - they did the biz.
Must dash, got my ironing to do!!!!
Cannot remember what else I said.
Anyway, have had a good day, went to the Sportsmans to do some work, had a lovely crowd in from irvine on a bus trip. Bought some Musselburgh rock for two ladies, did group photos, etc.
Made it home by 4.30p.m. and spent some time in the garden, very much needed as I have done nothing at all for months and it was really bad.
My mate Frank took the car away for a wee service tonight so it is ticking along nicely.
Edinburgh Council had a cheek, complained about rubbish lying out overnight, it had been there for four days as the bin men refused to collect it - soon shifted it today.
Sunday, 19 August 2007
Really p......ed Off
I have just sat and typed an account of Sunday, but it was lost in the system and I am so tired I cannot get round to repeating it.
Was a bad day, cannot talk about much that occurred as it is sub judicea,
Will see how I feel in the morning , sorry.
Was a bad day, cannot talk about much that occurred as it is sub judicea,
Will see how I feel in the morning , sorry.
Sub judicea ( or something like that)
Good evening, as I have had a whole day since the last post.
Unfortunately much of what I wanted to say this morning falls into the sub judicea category so I cannot write about it, much as I would love to do so. Suffice to say I never got home till 4 a.m. and was up again early to head off to Bookers and work.
Pub was very quiet at Musselburgh, probably becoause many clients are Hibs supporters and they were not interested in the coverage of the Celtic - Aberdeen match, which meant bthat there were plenty of sandwiches for those present.
Graham had to close the Mercat for the afternnon and call in emergency electricians, as recent work proved to be badly done and a faulty circuit closed down part of the premises.
Was listening to Nicola Whitelock at the book festival and she was saying that many authors work on the principle that you need sex and lust to sell a book. What do you need to sell a blog or make it interesting. I.e. there were lots of sex ( sacks) of rubbish on the pavement in West Maitland street. Bluey was lusting after a pigeon, god help him if pigeon had got into the conservatory.
Ann suggested that in my letter all I had to do to imply sex and lust was to mention Bob and Carol Ann, not quite sure how he would react.
had planned on speaking to the delightfull Ms Stewart on the subject of alcohol and violence ( rather topical) but was forced to zoom around the town working and never made it. her show as actually quite good today as she managed to get a lot of callers, compared to last Sunday which was awful. People participation is needed.
One interesting fact - ex member of staff is now a dancer at "Hooters", so the money she paid for a boob job has paid off.
Unfortunately much of what I wanted to say this morning falls into the sub judicea category so I cannot write about it, much as I would love to do so. Suffice to say I never got home till 4 a.m. and was up again early to head off to Bookers and work.
Pub was very quiet at Musselburgh, probably becoause many clients are Hibs supporters and they were not interested in the coverage of the Celtic - Aberdeen match, which meant bthat there were plenty of sandwiches for those present.
Graham had to close the Mercat for the afternnon and call in emergency electricians, as recent work proved to be badly done and a faulty circuit closed down part of the premises.
Was listening to Nicola Whitelock at the book festival and she was saying that many authors work on the principle that you need sex and lust to sell a book. What do you need to sell a blog or make it interesting. I.e. there were lots of sex ( sacks) of rubbish on the pavement in West Maitland street. Bluey was lusting after a pigeon, god help him if pigeon had got into the conservatory.
Ann suggested that in my letter all I had to do to imply sex and lust was to mention Bob and Carol Ann, not quite sure how he would react.
had planned on speaking to the delightfull Ms Stewart on the subject of alcohol and violence ( rather topical) but was forced to zoom around the town working and never made it. her show as actually quite good today as she managed to get a lot of callers, compared to last Sunday which was awful. People participation is needed.
One interesting fact - ex member of staff is now a dancer at "Hooters", so the money she paid for a boob job has paid off.
Temple Village
Despite the fact it was raining, I was picked up my my friend mark and we went to the village of Temple, near Gorebridge where we were to meet others at the old churchyard there, home of the Knights Templars since 1153 when King David granted them the "manor and chapely of Balentradoch.
However when we got there , only three of our friends had arrived so we had a short visit of the churchyard and rather end up "too droochit" headed home, picking up somelovely fresh farm eggs form a roadside stall - complete with honesty box.
After lunch I attended a full meeting of Knights Templars, Preceptory of King David of Balentradoch, in Dalkeith, before heaing on to work - where all the fun occurred. Read on
However when we got there , only three of our friends had arrived so we had a short visit of the churchyard and rather end up "too droochit" headed home, picking up somelovely fresh farm eggs form a roadside stall - complete with honesty box.
After lunch I attended a full meeting of Knights Templars, Preceptory of King David of Balentradoch, in Dalkeith, before heaing on to work - where all the fun occurred. Read on
Saturday, 18 August 2007
Back to bed - maybe
7.10 a.m., bad night with little sleep and now the sky is grey and it is pouring with rain. Unless I can find something more important to do in the next few minutes it is back under the covers for me. Even poor Bluey is fed up, would not come out his cage when he saw/ heard the rain - still rather subdued, but then again it is Saturday and Bob is not on the radio !!
Busy trying to learn ritual for the Royal Arch, but cannot concentrate on it at the moment.
Busy trying to learn ritual for the Royal Arch, but cannot concentrate on it at the moment.
Friday, 17 August 2007
Venting frustrations
Late at night, and from what I can see only Jeremy and Tam have shown any interest so I can say what I like.
On the 22 nd I will have been married for 37 years to Ann, who I love and have loved very dearly, despite all our ups and downs.
For the past four years we have had problems brought about by her managers at Edinburgh Council, culminating two years ago with her suspension based on false allegations by a clerical assistant (who can be proven to be both a liar and manipulative) so much so that she took her own manager to the cleaners, the other, a more senior Manager just became the aggressor rather than pick up the phone and apologise for a mistake she had made. However, end result is that my wife has been subjected to extreme pressures which have seriously affected her health both mentally and physically, totally destroyed her confidence and have had a major effect on our financial well being. There had to be be a certain degree of collusion on the part of three managers who have been long time friends and progressed up the ladder in tandem over the years. A "hammer was used to crack a nut", where simple common sense and a couple of phone calls would have resolved the situation.
The council's policy on whistle blowing is a sham, managers are lying and smoke screening to cover their own mistakes and inadequacies, and I am supposed to sit back and smile while our lives are being destroyed and the so called due process takes place.
Just what is fair about that?
On the 22 nd I will have been married for 37 years to Ann, who I love and have loved very dearly, despite all our ups and downs.
For the past four years we have had problems brought about by her managers at Edinburgh Council, culminating two years ago with her suspension based on false allegations by a clerical assistant (who can be proven to be both a liar and manipulative) so much so that she took her own manager to the cleaners, the other, a more senior Manager just became the aggressor rather than pick up the phone and apologise for a mistake she had made. However, end result is that my wife has been subjected to extreme pressures which have seriously affected her health both mentally and physically, totally destroyed her confidence and have had a major effect on our financial well being. There had to be be a certain degree of collusion on the part of three managers who have been long time friends and progressed up the ladder in tandem over the years. A "hammer was used to crack a nut", where simple common sense and a couple of phone calls would have resolved the situation.
The council's policy on whistle blowing is a sham, managers are lying and smoke screening to cover their own mistakes and inadequacies, and I am supposed to sit back and smile while our lives are being destroyed and the so called due process takes place.
Just what is fair about that?
Rainy day - so cinema
This morning, despite the forecast it turned out terrible with rain and clouds. We headed though to West Lothian to visit a friend and then to Livingston to McArthur Glen shopping centre.
We went to JD Wetherspoons, Almond Bank, but left without food as the staff were not prepared to accommodate our request.
BUT we went to the cinema to see the new Jason Bourne Bourne movie, really good, kept us on the edge of our seats and the stunts were superb. Good story line with yet another open ending.
Headed back to the city - another gripe, why do the City fathers not have cameras over the bus lanes to stop all these folks dodging along the inside of queues, if they can do it in Aberdeen and other cities , why not here.
At the Mercat for dinner, Ann had the most wonderful steak fajitas, she was mega impressed. Clair had shown Stuart how to cook them and he made a great job.
Another complaint, there were loads of rubbish bags on the pavement, apparantly the Cleansing boys had come along , ooked at the bags and refused to lift them - what an unsightly mess, compounded by a big bus stop, litter bins, red ticket machine and a pole which serves no purpose.
We went to JD Wetherspoons, Almond Bank, but left without food as the staff were not prepared to accommodate our request.
BUT we went to the cinema to see the new Jason Bourne Bourne movie, really good, kept us on the edge of our seats and the stunts were superb. Good story line with yet another open ending.
Headed back to the city - another gripe, why do the City fathers not have cameras over the bus lanes to stop all these folks dodging along the inside of queues, if they can do it in Aberdeen and other cities , why not here.
At the Mercat for dinner, Ann had the most wonderful steak fajitas, she was mega impressed. Clair had shown Stuart how to cook them and he made a great job.
Another complaint, there were loads of rubbish bags on the pavement, apparantly the Cleansing boys had come along , ooked at the bags and refused to lift them - what an unsightly mess, compounded by a big bus stop, litter bins, red ticket machine and a pole which serves no purpose.
Sore head this morning - wonder why.
This morning letter to Bob on Forth 2.
Whole house is up this morning, Graham is on the breakfasts today at The Mercat so when he is up we are all up and Budgie is going wild being left behind. Ann is wandring about is a daze telling me to say happy birthday to everyone !!!!
Anyway, yesterday turned out good after all. Made it to the mini tattoo in the Gardens, what a wonderful show and great opportunity for the locals to get a taste of the main event. Precision drilling and great music. Wandered the gardens afterwards talking to some of the bandsfolk who are just loving the Scottish hospitality in Edinburgh. Then something no one will see in the tattoo, the Essex County Volunteers, in full period costume all had a ride on the Carousel, what a sight, hurtling by, sabres drawn,they enjoyed themselves, why not.
Had a glass of wine with Archie and Tracy at The Standing Order, and THEN, made my day, had a chat to the lovely Arlene Stuart in the Lane Bar, what a charming young lady, very kind of her to take five minutes out from her show. No one warned her about talking to strangers I think - anyway she loved Budgie.
Hope you enjoy your BBQ, complete with the Green Marrows, Cousin Walter normally brings is ginormous ones for the pub, but weather this year put paid to that.
Unlike you, I will be working this weekend.
Whole house is up this morning, Graham is on the breakfasts today at The Mercat so when he is up we are all up and Budgie is going wild being left behind. Ann is wandring about is a daze telling me to say happy birthday to everyone !!!!
Anyway, yesterday turned out good after all. Made it to the mini tattoo in the Gardens, what a wonderful show and great opportunity for the locals to get a taste of the main event. Precision drilling and great music. Wandered the gardens afterwards talking to some of the bandsfolk who are just loving the Scottish hospitality in Edinburgh. Then something no one will see in the tattoo, the Essex County Volunteers, in full period costume all had a ride on the Carousel, what a sight, hurtling by, sabres drawn,they enjoyed themselves, why not.
Had a glass of wine with Archie and Tracy at The Standing Order, and THEN, made my day, had a chat to the lovely Arlene Stuart in the Lane Bar, what a charming young lady, very kind of her to take five minutes out from her show. No one warned her about talking to strangers I think - anyway she loved Budgie.
Hope you enjoy your BBQ, complete with the Green Marrows, Cousin Walter normally brings is ginormous ones for the pub, but weather this year put paid to that.
Unlike you, I will be working this weekend.
Have plenty to do this morning and hope to go to the cinema tonight, will report in later.
At least the sun is shining and forecast is reasonable for the day, bit rain later on , but we hope to go see the new Jason Bourne movie tonight,as this is release day.
Thursday, 16 August 2007
Just like in the movie - I think !!
I think "Groundhog Day" was the correct comparison for me - yesterday all went wrong so I tried again.
Made it into Edinburgh where weather was not too bad, breakfast roll at the Mercat then off to the British Heart Foundation to lodge some cash which the patrons of The Sportsman's Bar had collected in memory of Gundy who died two weeks ago.
The sad thing was that Gundy, living alone lay for a couple of days undiscovered. Just what does it say for the society we live in. I remember that when my father, RGB ( Snr) was alive he always drew over his downstairs curtains last thing at night and first thing in the morning opened them up. His neighbours in Currie knew this and if they were not open by 9 a.m. they would go look and see.
In my case I had a lovely lady, Margaret who would watch for our kitchen light to come on in the morning and then ring me - if I did not get the call one of the family would go and check things out. Some folks do similar things with "fish" signs or cards in the window and the posti or neighbours can be on the lookout.
To progress, I headed to the Standing order where Archie and Tracy were on duty, had a blether , and also to Archie's dad , (old Archie) - seems it is the done thing for the siblings to keep Ma or Pa working as long as possible.
I then popped into the Lane Bar, George Street, where I met a lovely young lady, one Arlene Stuart of Forth 2 fame who does a daily show from the bar during the Festival. She was kind enough to chat for a few minutes before going on air. There is no doubt that she is a lot better on the eye than my friend Bob Malcolm, but as Bob is always up early he has an excuse !!
She was very complimentary of the dreaded Budgie, Bluey, who insists that I always carry his photo!! Clever bird , (I have a card which says, if found drunk please contact Bluey.)
Arlene was asking if I was going to be controversial in my blogs ? That is the Million Dollar Q, as there are, like many things I would like to say. Edinburgh Council and the bullies within the workforce; the tax man who cometh and hath no mercy; traffic wardens who seem to be able to hide behind lamposts; smokers who do not see fag ends as litter, and so on and on and on. Maybe laterI will enlighten further.
I eventually made it to Princes Street Gardens (or the big park as I heard somone calling it) where, lo and behold the Mini tattoo was on. It was really superb, massed pipes and drums, steel band from Trinidad, Scottish Country Dancers, marching bands, just wonderful and the rain managed to stay away. Afterwards I managed to chat to a couple of the bandsmen, one, an army officer, immaculate in his best dress, said that he was having a ball and enjoying his stay in Edinburgh. My chatting companion during the show was a lady who was home from South Africa for several weeks and then taking her father out there for the winter. She said that she was getting homesick after a long time away and was considering coming back to Scotland again. The quality of life was changing there and personal security for expats was a big problem.
The members of the Middlesex County Volunteer Band, in full period costume caused astill when they all paid for and went on the Carousel ride in the Gardens, several members had obviously not heard that it was not the done thing to brandish sabres, whether on real or dummy horses.
En route back to The Mercat, I met Danny Fair, the Doorman at the Caledonian Hotel, resplendent in top hat and tails. he is a wonderful man who I have known for a very very long time. Not everyone is aware that Danny was a master glass cutter who cut and designed at The Edinburgh Crystal Co., now closed, suffering the same fate as many with the need to reduce costs by buying in from abroad, quality failed and people ultimatley lost thier jobs.
Back at the Mercat I had a wonderful croque monsieur (cheese piece), made by the lovely Clair. Bar was busy with Graham and Ian working hard to keep up with the orders.
There was a new act on downstairs in the Free fringe, a young lady comedien who whose risque sense of humour ( not quite a family show) seemed to be going down well with the crowd.
Said too much tonight BUT - when the mood.
Made it into Edinburgh where weather was not too bad, breakfast roll at the Mercat then off to the British Heart Foundation to lodge some cash which the patrons of The Sportsman's Bar had collected in memory of Gundy who died two weeks ago.
The sad thing was that Gundy, living alone lay for a couple of days undiscovered. Just what does it say for the society we live in. I remember that when my father, RGB ( Snr) was alive he always drew over his downstairs curtains last thing at night and first thing in the morning opened them up. His neighbours in Currie knew this and if they were not open by 9 a.m. they would go look and see.
In my case I had a lovely lady, Margaret who would watch for our kitchen light to come on in the morning and then ring me - if I did not get the call one of the family would go and check things out. Some folks do similar things with "fish" signs or cards in the window and the posti or neighbours can be on the lookout.
To progress, I headed to the Standing order where Archie and Tracy were on duty, had a blether , and also to Archie's dad , (old Archie) - seems it is the done thing for the siblings to keep Ma or Pa working as long as possible.
I then popped into the Lane Bar, George Street, where I met a lovely young lady, one Arlene Stuart of Forth 2 fame who does a daily show from the bar during the Festival. She was kind enough to chat for a few minutes before going on air. There is no doubt that she is a lot better on the eye than my friend Bob Malcolm, but as Bob is always up early he has an excuse !!
She was very complimentary of the dreaded Budgie, Bluey, who insists that I always carry his photo!! Clever bird , (I have a card which says, if found drunk please contact Bluey.)
Arlene was asking if I was going to be controversial in my blogs ? That is the Million Dollar Q, as there are, like many things I would like to say. Edinburgh Council and the bullies within the workforce; the tax man who cometh and hath no mercy; traffic wardens who seem to be able to hide behind lamposts; smokers who do not see fag ends as litter, and so on and on and on. Maybe laterI will enlighten further.
I eventually made it to Princes Street Gardens (or the big park as I heard somone calling it) where, lo and behold the Mini tattoo was on. It was really superb, massed pipes and drums, steel band from Trinidad, Scottish Country Dancers, marching bands, just wonderful and the rain managed to stay away. Afterwards I managed to chat to a couple of the bandsmen, one, an army officer, immaculate in his best dress, said that he was having a ball and enjoying his stay in Edinburgh. My chatting companion during the show was a lady who was home from South Africa for several weeks and then taking her father out there for the winter. She said that she was getting homesick after a long time away and was considering coming back to Scotland again. The quality of life was changing there and personal security for expats was a big problem.
The members of the Middlesex County Volunteer Band, in full period costume caused astill when they all paid for and went on the Carousel ride in the Gardens, several members had obviously not heard that it was not the done thing to brandish sabres, whether on real or dummy horses.
En route back to The Mercat, I met Danny Fair, the Doorman at the Caledonian Hotel, resplendent in top hat and tails. he is a wonderful man who I have known for a very very long time. Not everyone is aware that Danny was a master glass cutter who cut and designed at The Edinburgh Crystal Co., now closed, suffering the same fate as many with the need to reduce costs by buying in from abroad, quality failed and people ultimatley lost thier jobs.
Back at the Mercat I had a wonderful croque monsieur (cheese piece), made by the lovely Clair. Bar was busy with Graham and Ian working hard to keep up with the orders.
There was a new act on downstairs in the Free fringe, a young lady comedien who whose risque sense of humour ( not quite a family show) seemed to be going down well with the crowd.
Said too much tonight BUT - when the mood.
Very remiss of me
Hi,
obviously a sign of old age, but I do do get things wrong from time to time.
Ann reminded me that I had promised to say hello to Abagail and Erin, two very young ladies who me met in the Princes Street Gardens on Wednesday. They were with their Granny and had her well warned that if she misbehaved "she would be grounded" for a week. They like us has come upon the bus for the mini tattoo and were really disappointed.
To Kerrin, sorry I spelt your name wrong yesterday- you might be small, but you have a big heart, cheers.
To Brian, hope you are happy now, so do not give the dog ( Glen) a hard time, and to George, sorry about the cake jokes, just keep your trowel handy - you can use it to dig a tunnel. ( sorry folks but that is a Sportsman's in house joke.)
Robbie, at least you and Caitlin managed to get a day off - thanks pal.
obviously a sign of old age, but I do do get things wrong from time to time.
Ann reminded me that I had promised to say hello to Abagail and Erin, two very young ladies who me met in the Princes Street Gardens on Wednesday. They were with their Granny and had her well warned that if she misbehaved "she would be grounded" for a week. They like us has come upon the bus for the mini tattoo and were really disappointed.
To Kerrin, sorry I spelt your name wrong yesterday- you might be small, but you have a big heart, cheers.
To Brian, hope you are happy now, so do not give the dog ( Glen) a hard time, and to George, sorry about the cake jokes, just keep your trowel handy - you can use it to dig a tunnel. ( sorry folks but that is a Sportsman's in house joke.)
Robbie, at least you and Caitlin managed to get a day off - thanks pal.
Might be like "Groundhog Day"
This mornings note to Bob on Forth 2.
Morning Bob,
What a bad day I had yesterday, all my plans went wrong, Mini Tattoo was not on - it's TODAY, but the Evening News published the wrong date, went to see friends but they were in a meeting, Next to a posh place in George Street for lunch which took ages to arrive and was sent back, cold ( no - it was not a salad).
Then to crown it all I got a call to go to work to help out at Musselburgh, but I did get a photo of Brian and Dave because Brian was complaining that I had a nice photo of his dog, Glen, dressed as "superdog" on the wall in the pub.
Your snap, crackle and pop guys are superb, I cannot remember who sang what last week let alone umpteen years ago. But how is this for a coincidence - I had a half pint of "Summer breeze" yesterday at lunch time, Ann said that's a " song title" and she was right. Sung by Seals and Croft in 1972, The Isley Brothers in 1974 and The Three Tenors in 1996. BUT OF COURSE YOU KNEW THAT !!!
Fingers crossed for today
Morning Bob,
What a bad day I had yesterday, all my plans went wrong, Mini Tattoo was not on - it's TODAY, but the Evening News published the wrong date, went to see friends but they were in a meeting, Next to a posh place in George Street for lunch which took ages to arrive and was sent back, cold ( no - it was not a salad).
Then to crown it all I got a call to go to work to help out at Musselburgh, but I did get a photo of Brian and Dave because Brian was complaining that I had a nice photo of his dog, Glen, dressed as "superdog" on the wall in the pub.
Your snap, crackle and pop guys are superb, I cannot remember who sang what last week let alone umpteen years ago. But how is this for a coincidence - I had a half pint of "Summer breeze" yesterday at lunch time, Ann said that's a " song title" and she was right. Sung by Seals and Croft in 1972, The Isley Brothers in 1974 and The Three Tenors in 1996. BUT OF COURSE YOU KNEW THAT !!!
Fingers crossed for today
Thanks to Jeremy for his comment.
Phoned my "Uncle" Walter Blaikie last night, who is actually my father's cousin. He was concerned that the weather had effected his garden this year and was not able to supply me with ginormous marrows - which we use for soup and treats at the Mercat.
Walter, is to be fair, getting on a bit, but I remember when I was a little nipper being taken round the block at Bangholm on the back of his motorbike. He is still very keen on all types of motorsport but now depends on his daughter Mary ( who shares his passion for sport) to drive him around these days. He has promised to come up to the bar for lunch.
Elvis anniversity today , so lots of good music on air, Graham will be happy as he tries to do the odd Elvis tune on the karaoke.
Breakfast time.
Wednesday, 15 August 2007
Just never went to Plan
Been a long day and it just never went to Plan, A , B or C.
Started off Ok this morning with my usual daily note to Bob on Forth 2,
Hi Bob,
great excitement, I actually saw the sun this morning when popping the recycling boxes out ( getting rid of the empties), and with us heading for a wee look at the mini tattoo in Princes Street Gardens today I hope it stays fair. Afterwards will see if there is any of that "Tacrem" chicken Tika left at the Mercat.
Big thank you to old Andrew from Wallyford, better known as "Bing" for my weekly vanilla slice yesterday, He is 90 yrs young, comes into the Sportsmans every week for a tipple and always brings me a slice.
Adrenilin rush yesterday when ambulance motor, lights flashing and horns blaring passed me at Bilston heading for Penicuik ( Driver Under Instruction). Anyway, by the time I reached Penicuik it was stopped outside "Vikki Wines". Turned out that the trainee drivers were changing places and not the instructor seeking "medication".
Well done to the lady from East Kilbride who won the £35 million - what would we do with that ?
Started off Ok this morning with my usual daily note to Bob on Forth 2,
Hi Bob,
great excitement, I actually saw the sun this morning when popping the recycling boxes out ( getting rid of the empties), and with us heading for a wee look at the mini tattoo in Princes Street Gardens today I hope it stays fair. Afterwards will see if there is any of that "Tacrem" chicken Tika left at the Mercat.
Big thank you to old Andrew from Wallyford, better known as "Bing" for my weekly vanilla slice yesterday, He is 90 yrs young, comes into the Sportsmans every week for a tipple and always brings me a slice.
Adrenilin rush yesterday when ambulance motor, lights flashing and horns blaring passed me at Bilston heading for Penicuik ( Driver Under Instruction). Anyway, by the time I reached Penicuik it was stopped outside "Vikki Wines". Turned out that the trainee drivers were changing places and not the instructor seeking "medication".
Well done to the lady from East Kilbride who won the £35 million - what would we do with that ?
Anyway, then left in the car via The Mercat to drop off Graham who was off to Stirling, then Ann and I went to the cash & carry. I like that, loads to look at and lots of impulse shopping. On the way to the pub dropped in to Matalan, 1/2 price sale and got bargains.
Emptied the car and left it in the car park and went along to Prices Street Gardens to see the mini tattoo - NOT - 1st upset of the day, Evening News had published the wrong information and it is on tomorrow instead.
Up to the Standing order to see Archie and Tracy - NOT - they were in a meeting and could not be disturbed. Had a half pint of "Summer Breeze" cask ale, very good.
Then along to one of the so called "posher" watering holes in George Street where I looked forward to a nice panini - NOT - food got lost, took ages to arrive and was cold when served. The place is nice, good staff approach, but it only takes a small thing to spoil it.
Rest of the day to ourselves - NOT - received a phone call and had to head down to The Sportsmans at Musselburgh to cover for Kelly who had an urgent appointment. Place was fairly quiet.
Brian, Davy, Keith, George, Helen, Chick, amongst others were in, but I still got a few things done before Shaun relieved me and I jumped on a 44 bus back up to The Mercat to meet Ann and Graham.
Princes Street was bedlam with tea time traffic, just one long line of buses, but when I suggested that this might "Doo the drivers head in" he said that it never bothered him, he just got used to it. I would love a shot at driving a double decker, have driven coaches but nothing that big.
Mercat was busy, with Chris in working on his day off as well, so we just headed home to get the feet up. En route stopped off at the Flotterstone and had a nice pint of "Edinburgh Cascade" ale, one of Steve Stewart's four ales, again , very good.
Ann was surprised when I used the word "discomboobriated"earlier today, she had never heard of it, wonder why!!
Getting organised for a BBQ at The Courtyard Restaurant on 26th August, 12.30 till late, £10 each - everyone welcome, and being run by South East Region Licensed Trade Assoc.
Now time for a Johnny Walker Gold Label and to contemplate tomorrows plans.
Tuesday, 14 August 2007
Every day is different
I had no real plans for the day and therefore thought that it might be quiet, boring, etc, with little to report.
However, I eventally headed off this morning and went to see my friend Grant who has a photo /processing shop in Bonnyrigg. He is another "technocrat" or whizz with computers and machines and tries to keep me right but I just get lost. Here I was getting yet more photos developed which could be in this blog somewhere.
Grant has a scooter, but will soon become the proud owner of a motorcycle - which surprisingly will cost him less for insurance as there are more accidents with scooters than bikes.
From there onto the Sportsman's at Musselburgh, where one of our oldest clients, Andrew or "Bing" as he is known, was there. 90 years old, comes in every week and every week he brings in a vanilla slice for me and Graham. He has been quite a character in his day, married for 65 plus years and his dear lady wife is 93. I took his photo with Kirren, she was mortified as he would have loved to get her sitting on his knee.
After leaving the pub I headed home and at one point saw the flashing blue lights and heard the siren behind me and having pulled over discovered that it was an ambulance vehicle with "Drivers under instruction". It disappeared ahead of me and turned off up into the country. However, a short time later whilst in the bank I heard and then saw the same vehicle speeding through Penicuik. Much to my surprise a few minutes later I found it parked in the High Street where the trainee drivers were changing seats for their next "blast" through the countryside. I do not know how many times I have heard people saying, on seeing hearing Police and ambulances passing, " They must be in a hurry for their tea". In this instance I thought it might have been better if they had gone out into the country and changed drivers.
Going back thirty plus years we had an ambulance driver who certainly did use his siren when he was in a hurry to get home, it was a standing joke, but everyone knew him and he was a great paramedic.
Eventually got that Indian meal, very nice, but I thought a bit expensive for what we had as a carry out.
Although I am not an ardent football fan I sat and watched Glasgow Rangers playing Red Star Belgrade . I thought it was an exciting game, however Red Star were certainly dirty players and lucky not to have anyone sent off for the blatant fouling. Good result for Rangers and well done Nacho Novo. There will certainly be a hostile crowd in Belgrade for the replay.
Quote for the night - "Places that are empty of you are empty of all life", Dante Gabriel Rossetti, (1828-1882)
Ok, "Tomorrow is another day"
However, I eventally headed off this morning and went to see my friend Grant who has a photo /processing shop in Bonnyrigg. He is another "technocrat" or whizz with computers and machines and tries to keep me right but I just get lost. Here I was getting yet more photos developed which could be in this blog somewhere.
Grant has a scooter, but will soon become the proud owner of a motorcycle - which surprisingly will cost him less for insurance as there are more accidents with scooters than bikes.
From there onto the Sportsman's at Musselburgh, where one of our oldest clients, Andrew or "Bing" as he is known, was there. 90 years old, comes in every week and every week he brings in a vanilla slice for me and Graham. He has been quite a character in his day, married for 65 plus years and his dear lady wife is 93. I took his photo with Kirren, she was mortified as he would have loved to get her sitting on his knee.
After leaving the pub I headed home and at one point saw the flashing blue lights and heard the siren behind me and having pulled over discovered that it was an ambulance vehicle with "Drivers under instruction". It disappeared ahead of me and turned off up into the country. However, a short time later whilst in the bank I heard and then saw the same vehicle speeding through Penicuik. Much to my surprise a few minutes later I found it parked in the High Street where the trainee drivers were changing seats for their next "blast" through the countryside. I do not know how many times I have heard people saying, on seeing hearing Police and ambulances passing, " They must be in a hurry for their tea". In this instance I thought it might have been better if they had gone out into the country and changed drivers.
Going back thirty plus years we had an ambulance driver who certainly did use his siren when he was in a hurry to get home, it was a standing joke, but everyone knew him and he was a great paramedic.
Eventually got that Indian meal, very nice, but I thought a bit expensive for what we had as a carry out.
Although I am not an ardent football fan I sat and watched Glasgow Rangers playing Red Star Belgrade . I thought it was an exciting game, however Red Star were certainly dirty players and lucky not to have anyone sent off for the blatant fouling. Good result for Rangers and well done Nacho Novo. There will certainly be a hostile crowd in Belgrade for the replay.
Quote for the night - "Places that are empty of you are empty of all life", Dante Gabriel Rossetti, (1828-1882)
Ok, "Tomorrow is another day"
A short one for Kirren and Rob
Hi,
Kirren was working today at the Sportsmans and did not believe that I had written about her. Hopefully she will believe it now.
To Rob, you must be in the library if you are reading this.
Planning on having an Indian meal tonight even although spicy food does not always agree with me.
Musselbuurgh Races are on tonight and the weather is terrible, seems to be the same all over. The TV news has just shown pictures of the beach at Weston Super Mare, not a soul in sight, not good for business , but the donkeys are getting a rest!!
Another gripe, the Red Bull advert which goes on about being 32% bigger, better, etc, and all the things it does which are 32% better - what a load of codge!!
Heading off for dinner.
Kirren was working today at the Sportsmans and did not believe that I had written about her. Hopefully she will believe it now.
To Rob, you must be in the library if you are reading this.
Planning on having an Indian meal tonight even although spicy food does not always agree with me.
Musselbuurgh Races are on tonight and the weather is terrible, seems to be the same all over. The TV news has just shown pictures of the beach at Weston Super Mare, not a soul in sight, not good for business , but the donkeys are getting a rest!!
Another gripe, the Red Bull advert which goes on about being 32% bigger, better, etc, and all the things it does which are 32% better - what a load of codge!!
Heading off for dinner.
Copy and paste
Cheating a wee bit this morning, I have just written my morning E mail to Bob Malcolm on Radio Forth One, and have just discovered that I can copy and paste into this site. Hopefully no one will mind a but of duplication.
Bob
woke up suffering from "work lag", too much and not enough sleep to recover, however, Budgie and I have just been singing / chirping along to the Proclaimers, very good.
Yesterday, set off with the "bus pass" waiting on the McEwans 101 but it sailed past full to the gunnels, bodies everywhere ( just like the buses you see in India). Anyway, travelled in style on the X47 - driver must love zooming by all those stops.
The roads department were joining in with the Free fringe, they had done an "Andy Worhole" at the foot of Liberton Brae, coned off the inside lane and cleared off - no hole / workers, etc Saves them getting abused by the motorists.
My free fringe show yesterday was Pete Gold at Venue 282 (Mercat), a singer /comedien ( bit like yourself) who was good . Accompanied by nice bowl of soup and a "croc monsieur" ( big ham and cheese toastie).
Rumour has it that the chefs are doing an experimental "Tacrem chicken tika" special today" ( mercat spelt backwards)
I see that there are swarms of flying ants all over the place, unusual site, but they are doing no harm, other than frightening folks who are scared of creepy crawlies.
Another gripe - people with umbrellas, they just charge along the pavements and it is up to the poor innocent to dodge aside to avoid getting jabbed or blinded. Smaller ladies are the worst as their brolllies are at head height !!.
Time for a cuppa.
Bob
woke up suffering from "work lag", too much and not enough sleep to recover, however, Budgie and I have just been singing / chirping along to the Proclaimers, very good.
Yesterday, set off with the "bus pass" waiting on the McEwans 101 but it sailed past full to the gunnels, bodies everywhere ( just like the buses you see in India). Anyway, travelled in style on the X47 - driver must love zooming by all those stops.
The roads department were joining in with the Free fringe, they had done an "Andy Worhole" at the foot of Liberton Brae, coned off the inside lane and cleared off - no hole / workers, etc Saves them getting abused by the motorists.
My free fringe show yesterday was Pete Gold at Venue 282 (Mercat), a singer /comedien ( bit like yourself) who was good . Accompanied by nice bowl of soup and a "croc monsieur" ( big ham and cheese toastie).
Rumour has it that the chefs are doing an experimental "Tacrem chicken tika" special today" ( mercat spelt backwards)
I see that there are swarms of flying ants all over the place, unusual site, but they are doing no harm, other than frightening folks who are scared of creepy crawlies.
Another gripe - people with umbrellas, they just charge along the pavements and it is up to the poor innocent to dodge aside to avoid getting jabbed or blinded. Smaller ladies are the worst as their brolllies are at head height !!.
Time for a cuppa.
Monday, 13 August 2007
Late call
I had planned to be in bed by now, however, Kirren, our bar person at the "Sportsman's Bar" , hs not cashedup yet, and with the quiz being on tonight the bar was busy.
Listening to Iain Waugh on Forth One. good show, but he is seeking slightly younger "punters" to win a night out at a club in the town, not sure if I could stand the pace.
Just spoken to my Graham who is still at "The Mercat bar" and he was saying it was busy, so the free late night shows are attracting visitors.
I am led to believe that one of tomorrows specials is to be "Tacrem chicken tika" ( look at Mercat spelt backwards) but at least the food is fresh AND EXCELLENT.
Clair(the chef) phoned me tonight, she could not believe that I had actually praised her home made pies - proof was that every one was sold and eaten by happy customers.
Listening to Iain Waugh on Forth One. good show, but he is seeking slightly younger "punters" to win a night out at a club in the town, not sure if I could stand the pace.
Just spoken to my Graham who is still at "The Mercat bar" and he was saying it was busy, so the free late night shows are attracting visitors.
I am led to believe that one of tomorrows specials is to be "Tacrem chicken tika" ( look at Mercat spelt backwards) but at least the food is fresh AND EXCELLENT.
Clair(the chef) phoned me tonight, she could not believe that I had actually praised her home made pies - proof was that every one was sold and eaten by happy customers.
Clever cookie
Thought I had finished for the night, however, have just spoken to my It expert, Tom Findlay, who has found me on the web - what a thrill to have someone read your scribbles. He says it is simple to put photos up but I am not so sure - I am not quite a silver surfer as my hair is too thin to reflect the heat.
Anyway, Tom has been a bit lazy with his site, TF77.com, but is going to pop some thoughts down.
Tonights late night tipple is "Johnny Walker gold Label" whiskey, very smooth, no ice just a little drop of our local tap water, sufficient to open up the flavour.
Today there was much discussion on the radio about suggestions by the licensing board in Perth to forbid "vertical" drinking, and make more use of plastic tumblers. Well , I am against both, but I have in my hand the most beautiful Edinburgh Crystal, knurled glass with the thistle emblem, which really does enhance the taste of the contents.
Flashback, whilst in "The Mercat Bar" this afternoon the chaps from the South East of Scotland Licensing Assoc appeared, it was good to see them as I was in France with them four months ago visiting the wine yards and champagne caves of Bollinger and Piper Heindsick. If I had the cash I could survive on a nice rose.
Signing off to write a note to Ian Waugh, on air with radio Forth 1.
Cheers.
Anyway, Tom has been a bit lazy with his site, TF77.com, but is going to pop some thoughts down.
Tonights late night tipple is "Johnny Walker gold Label" whiskey, very smooth, no ice just a little drop of our local tap water, sufficient to open up the flavour.
Today there was much discussion on the radio about suggestions by the licensing board in Perth to forbid "vertical" drinking, and make more use of plastic tumblers. Well , I am against both, but I have in my hand the most beautiful Edinburgh Crystal, knurled glass with the thistle emblem, which really does enhance the taste of the contents.
Flashback, whilst in "The Mercat Bar" this afternoon the chaps from the South East of Scotland Licensing Assoc appeared, it was good to see them as I was in France with them four months ago visiting the wine yards and champagne caves of Bollinger and Piper Heindsick. If I had the cash I could survive on a nice rose.
Signing off to write a note to Ian Waugh, on air with radio Forth 1.
Cheers.
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