Evening /or early morning, I am presently talking to Greg Karabin in Downington, USA, father of Kevin, who is enjoying himself here in Edinburgh , and now will be told to behave.
Pubs were busy with lots of rugby people and the games were good but the big one is Sunday against NZ. Having said that we had a couple of real "prats"from NZ in the pub who were rude and not what we expected from our visitors.
Had a good night out with Joe and Christine who made us really welcome, nice meal, and even had big Ian, Black Diamond Radio give us a request, but the music was modern dance, which was a bit too much for us , so we calmed down with val Doonigan and Michael Buble.
Sportsman was reasonably busy, Princess Kerrin, Elaine and Simon, did well, assisted by Stuart who helped out fpor a couple of hours. Looks like Shaun has decided to pack in, he will be missed.
Bed time
Sunday, 23 September 2007
Saturday, 22 September 2007
The Karabin Boy ( Kevin)
last night, having been at a masonic meeting in Gorebridge, I deciced to head for The Mercat, where it was busy, and actually stopped off in town to do one of my own jobs en route.
Mercat was very busy, so I ended up in the sink in the kitchen helping Claire and Stuart, who had been rushed off their feet.
Anyway, Graham says I should meet this young American, and low and behold it was a 6'6" tall, 21 year old kevin Karabin, from Downington, PA. Kevin is the son of Greg and Bonny Karabin who Graham stayed with some years ago when working in the USA and playing rugby, and both Ann and I have stayed with Greg and Bonny.
I had completely forgotton that he and his friend were coming over for the New Zealand match on Sunday, anyway they were very havppy, Grham had organised a bed for them , and they left with Stuart, the chef, to go to the Sportsman's bar, where I later heard them singing on the karaoke when I phoned Robbie ( Koala hugger) at 12 mn to see how things were.
We will meet up with the boys again over the weekend as they will be eating and drinking at The mercat and I suspect singing in the Sportsman's again on Sunday when the karaoke final is on.
Met Andy Brash last night, he had phoned Bob Malcolm at Forth 2 to complain that he had not been reading my daily E mails, however, as I had only sent one this week, he had nothing to read.
Anyway, off to Donna Murray's funeral this morning, I hope all goes well for family.
Mercat was very busy, so I ended up in the sink in the kitchen helping Claire and Stuart, who had been rushed off their feet.
Anyway, Graham says I should meet this young American, and low and behold it was a 6'6" tall, 21 year old kevin Karabin, from Downington, PA. Kevin is the son of Greg and Bonny Karabin who Graham stayed with some years ago when working in the USA and playing rugby, and both Ann and I have stayed with Greg and Bonny.
I had completely forgotton that he and his friend were coming over for the New Zealand match on Sunday, anyway they were very havppy, Grham had organised a bed for them , and they left with Stuart, the chef, to go to the Sportsman's bar, where I later heard them singing on the karaoke when I phoned Robbie ( Koala hugger) at 12 mn to see how things were.
We will meet up with the boys again over the weekend as they will be eating and drinking at The mercat and I suspect singing in the Sportsman's again on Sunday when the karaoke final is on.
Met Andy Brash last night, he had phoned Bob Malcolm at Forth 2 to complain that he had not been reading my daily E mails, however, as I had only sent one this week, he had nothing to read.
Anyway, off to Donna Murray's funeral this morning, I hope all goes well for family.
Good service
Morning,
Our Graham tries very hard in the The Mercat to provide a good service both from the kitchen and on the floor to the customers, and all manage to get it right most of the time.
It is nice to get out and about and find similar standards elsewhere, so having seen the total opposite with the sneaky traffic wardens in Edinburgh I would like to praise a couple of companies I have come across.
Yesteray was a good example, I went to Scott Cuppola, Electrical Wholesalers in Bonnington, place was busy as usual, but the five guys on the service counter are excellent, they work as a team, have a great product knowledge and are really helpfull with no messing about. there is a coffee machine handy so if you do have to stand you have things to look at also.
Then went to Jewson Timber at Slateford Road, beside Matalan (my favourite clothes shop - so Ann says). I only wanted a wee bit wood, however I paid all of £3 for a 7 ft length ( 2.4 m), again the staff were excellent, helpfull and although the bloke who helped me was just new in the warehouse he was friendly, sociable, and I was able to cut it to length there and then.
Going back a few weeks to when I had my bike serviced at Border Bikes, Duns, by Andy Mimms, here is a classic of a small firm who would never had survived but for the fact their service is superb, friendly, they know your machines, etc. I would not have followed them from Edinburgh, to Gifford, Berwick upon Tweed and now Duns if they had not been good.
Our Graham tries very hard in the The Mercat to provide a good service both from the kitchen and on the floor to the customers, and all manage to get it right most of the time.
It is nice to get out and about and find similar standards elsewhere, so having seen the total opposite with the sneaky traffic wardens in Edinburgh I would like to praise a couple of companies I have come across.
Yesteray was a good example, I went to Scott Cuppola, Electrical Wholesalers in Bonnington, place was busy as usual, but the five guys on the service counter are excellent, they work as a team, have a great product knowledge and are really helpfull with no messing about. there is a coffee machine handy so if you do have to stand you have things to look at also.
Then went to Jewson Timber at Slateford Road, beside Matalan (my favourite clothes shop - so Ann says). I only wanted a wee bit wood, however I paid all of £3 for a 7 ft length ( 2.4 m), again the staff were excellent, helpfull and although the bloke who helped me was just new in the warehouse he was friendly, sociable, and I was able to cut it to length there and then.
Going back a few weeks to when I had my bike serviced at Border Bikes, Duns, by Andy Mimms, here is a classic of a small firm who would never had survived but for the fact their service is superb, friendly, they know your machines, etc. I would not have followed them from Edinburgh, to Gifford, Berwick upon Tweed and now Duns if they had not been good.
Friday, 21 September 2007
Relatives
I was rummaging about this morning and found an old wedding certificate of my Granfather William Deuchars Blaikie / Grandmother Eva Marshall Barclay who were married in 1914.
Discovered that he lived at 2 Perth Street ( off Hernerson Row) and she was from 58 Colinton Road.
Had a look at both places, Colinton Road was rebuilt in the mid 40's and I suspect that Perth Street was likewise, but I will need to check.
Interestingly, there is a paving slab outside the pawn shop, second hand shop, on the corner of Queens Street, Hanover Street !! with the name BLAIKIE engraved into it. This shop is only about 400 yards from Perth Street, and as my Gt grandfather was a merchant there might be a connection.
And , she died in 1935, aged 44, living at that time at 9 Eskside South, Musselburgh, which I think has also been built over.
This will give me something to check out.
Discovered that he lived at 2 Perth Street ( off Hernerson Row) and she was from 58 Colinton Road.
Had a look at both places, Colinton Road was rebuilt in the mid 40's and I suspect that Perth Street was likewise, but I will need to check.
Interestingly, there is a paving slab outside the pawn shop, second hand shop, on the corner of Queens Street, Hanover Street !! with the name BLAIKIE engraved into it. This shop is only about 400 yards from Perth Street, and as my Gt grandfather was a merchant there might be a connection.
And , she died in 1935, aged 44, living at that time at 9 Eskside South, Musselburgh, which I think has also been built over.
This will give me something to check out.
Sneaky wardens
Was in town this morning and in Canonmills, saw a warden hiding round a corner writing out a ticket for a car sitting on double yellows outside a hairdressoer. As the car window was wide open I would think that lady was probably making an appointment, but rather than make himself visible and give her a chance to move he just booked her.
They were sprinting up and down George Street, and one was booking a motorbike in Queen's Street, where he was obvioulsy delivering something to a big office. RATS
They were sprinting up and down George Street, and one was booking a motorbike in Queen's Street, where he was obvioulsy delivering something to a big office. RATS
Thursday, 20 September 2007
Pay the penalty
Home again after a 566 mile round trip to Runcorn, and feeling more than a bit tired.
Left at 5 a.m. , and as usual the white van men did not let me down, tearing past at breakneck speed throughout the journey. Met Bob D. at Glasgow, picked up my paperwork and headed south which was a good run as road was fairly quiet.
As I arrived on site at Runcorn I was talking to Ann on the hands free, and having been hunted around the site by the yellow coated "jobsworth" the last time I headed straight for the visitors car park, BUT , my way was blocked by Mr Jobsworth and when I tried to get round him he stopped me. Turned out that the car park was needed for "other" visitors, but he let me stop nearer the offices. I had forgotton that Ann was still on the hands free and was giving it laldy when she chipped in and gave me a row for all the swearing within the car, and muttering as i made it along the pavement.
Met Jill at reception who made me count to 10 and calmed me down before i met the folks inside. Nice quick meeting this morning, Liam and lorraine were in good sorts as were the other girls. Went to the Canteen for my roll and mocha where Chris, showed me her fancy new glasses which she had been made to buy after her last eye sight test ( Two pairs for £99 - a bargain).
Headed home and the fun started, first eejit, a guy in a brand new Ford Transit car transporter, possibly lost, nearly hit me on three occasions as he made it from the M62 to the M6, he was totally oblivious of anyone else around him ( nice set of dark shades). Then further north, eejit No 2 in black VW golf, as he answered his mobile swung out into my lane and braked at the same time, making me brake and skid as I had nowhere to go. Obviously ranting again about the use of mobiles without hands free kits. Further north, a black Transit, "The meatloaf show.com", he passed me, at speed chatting away on his phone, then just kept getting slower and slower.
In the meantime, it would appear that I was getting faster and faster, and a bit tired, when at Abington, as I crested the hill, there it was , a bloody camera van on the bridge ahead, nowhere to go, nothing I could do and I am sure I was travelling somewhere near the speed of sound !!! Anyway, it was my foot on the pedal, and if I was speeding that's my bad luck. The most annoying thing was that after slowed down a bit, there were loads of motors passing me. To make matters worse, as I came off the M73 onto the M8 going back into Glasgow I found a Police van on my tail, so slowed to let him past, and then followed for the next four miles, through, 70's, 60's and then the 50 limit, and what was he doing - about 75 with no blue lights, etc. There aint no justice in this world.
It was the same from Glasgow to Edinburgh, I felt that I was more of a hazard keeping to the speed limit rather than keeping up with the traffic in the outside lane.
Anyway, popped in to see my friend Danny and Katriona, so they calmed me down with tea and chocolate (white) biscuits, and we had a wee blether to catch up with the gossip.
Robbie ( koala hugger) has been on wanting to know if Mark has remembered the safe place where he put his shades!!
Now about to get ready to go back out again, another meeting tonight, but at least it is in Penicuik.
Left at 5 a.m. , and as usual the white van men did not let me down, tearing past at breakneck speed throughout the journey. Met Bob D. at Glasgow, picked up my paperwork and headed south which was a good run as road was fairly quiet.
As I arrived on site at Runcorn I was talking to Ann on the hands free, and having been hunted around the site by the yellow coated "jobsworth" the last time I headed straight for the visitors car park, BUT , my way was blocked by Mr Jobsworth and when I tried to get round him he stopped me. Turned out that the car park was needed for "other" visitors, but he let me stop nearer the offices. I had forgotton that Ann was still on the hands free and was giving it laldy when she chipped in and gave me a row for all the swearing within the car, and muttering as i made it along the pavement.
Met Jill at reception who made me count to 10 and calmed me down before i met the folks inside. Nice quick meeting this morning, Liam and lorraine were in good sorts as were the other girls. Went to the Canteen for my roll and mocha where Chris, showed me her fancy new glasses which she had been made to buy after her last eye sight test ( Two pairs for £99 - a bargain).
Headed home and the fun started, first eejit, a guy in a brand new Ford Transit car transporter, possibly lost, nearly hit me on three occasions as he made it from the M62 to the M6, he was totally oblivious of anyone else around him ( nice set of dark shades). Then further north, eejit No 2 in black VW golf, as he answered his mobile swung out into my lane and braked at the same time, making me brake and skid as I had nowhere to go. Obviously ranting again about the use of mobiles without hands free kits. Further north, a black Transit, "The meatloaf show.com", he passed me, at speed chatting away on his phone, then just kept getting slower and slower.
In the meantime, it would appear that I was getting faster and faster, and a bit tired, when at Abington, as I crested the hill, there it was , a bloody camera van on the bridge ahead, nowhere to go, nothing I could do and I am sure I was travelling somewhere near the speed of sound !!! Anyway, it was my foot on the pedal, and if I was speeding that's my bad luck. The most annoying thing was that after slowed down a bit, there were loads of motors passing me. To make matters worse, as I came off the M73 onto the M8 going back into Glasgow I found a Police van on my tail, so slowed to let him past, and then followed for the next four miles, through, 70's, 60's and then the 50 limit, and what was he doing - about 75 with no blue lights, etc. There aint no justice in this world.
It was the same from Glasgow to Edinburgh, I felt that I was more of a hazard keeping to the speed limit rather than keeping up with the traffic in the outside lane.
Anyway, popped in to see my friend Danny and Katriona, so they calmed me down with tea and chocolate (white) biscuits, and we had a wee blether to catch up with the gossip.
Robbie ( koala hugger) has been on wanting to know if Mark has remembered the safe place where he put his shades!!
Now about to get ready to go back out again, another meeting tonight, but at least it is in Penicuik.
In the middle of the night
Above . being the name of a song, BUT, I am not singing as I prepare to head out into a dark, cold wet, night / morning , to go to Glasgow and then Runcorn.
Someone phoned the house at 2.20 a.m., two rings, enough to waken me , then hung up, so I have been restless since.
I can feel the effects of yesterday's massage, just slightly tender, however, another 24 hours and I will be like a new man.
Good result for Rangers / Scotland last night at the football, just listened to it on the radio.
Sandra phoned from London to say that William was pleased with his phot the other day, in Hong Kong with Gerard heullier.
Off into the cold now.
Someone phoned the house at 2.20 a.m., two rings, enough to waken me , then hung up, so I have been restless since.
I can feel the effects of yesterday's massage, just slightly tender, however, another 24 hours and I will be like a new man.
Good result for Rangers / Scotland last night at the football, just listened to it on the radio.
Sandra phoned from London to say that William was pleased with his phot the other day, in Hong Kong with Gerard heullier.
Off into the cold now.
Wednesday, 19 September 2007
Feet up now - long day ahead
Costco - then Bookers, and into The Mercat with our purchases.
We had a 12 md appointment in Edinburgh but is was cancelled, so we just took it easy at The Mercat, where Claire made me the most wonderful sirloin steak, served on a sizzler with onion rings, tomatoes, mushrooms, fries and a mustard sause - accompanied by a nice glass of red wine.
We then went over the road to Imarni's beauty salon, Torphichen Street, where I had a neck and back massage. It was really good, Ann, the therapist used hot stones to get deep into the muscle. She was in her element when she found all the knots in my neck and shoulders and spend nearly an hour working them out. She said that they are caused by stress, bad posture and sitting in the car for too long, its just a pity that I have an eleven hour drive tomorrow which will undo all her good work. However, at the moment I am feeling just brilliant. I will just have to get booked up for another session in the next couple of weeks.
I was telling her about the various massages I had whilst in China, a rather raunchy Thai massage in The Holiday Inn, Wuhtan, where I had a young lady working my spine with knees and elbows, a session of "cupping" which is a very Chinese style massage using little glass globes, they are placed on your body with a flame inside, then as the air is used up a vacume is formed and the skin and underlying muscle is drawn into the globe which apparently draws the blood up to the surface ( I think) . We passed a back street "clinic" in Chin Chong (population 19 million) and saw a man on a table covered in these little globes, did not look too pleasant, however I am led to believe that lots of top movie stars in the USA get this treatment.
Anyway, now back home with feet up, resting before I head south at 5 a.m., just getting a bit too old for all this running about !!!
We had a 12 md appointment in Edinburgh but is was cancelled, so we just took it easy at The Mercat, where Claire made me the most wonderful sirloin steak, served on a sizzler with onion rings, tomatoes, mushrooms, fries and a mustard sause - accompanied by a nice glass of red wine.
We then went over the road to Imarni's beauty salon, Torphichen Street, where I had a neck and back massage. It was really good, Ann, the therapist used hot stones to get deep into the muscle. She was in her element when she found all the knots in my neck and shoulders and spend nearly an hour working them out. She said that they are caused by stress, bad posture and sitting in the car for too long, its just a pity that I have an eleven hour drive tomorrow which will undo all her good work. However, at the moment I am feeling just brilliant. I will just have to get booked up for another session in the next couple of weeks.
I was telling her about the various massages I had whilst in China, a rather raunchy Thai massage in The Holiday Inn, Wuhtan, where I had a young lady working my spine with knees and elbows, a session of "cupping" which is a very Chinese style massage using little glass globes, they are placed on your body with a flame inside, then as the air is used up a vacume is formed and the skin and underlying muscle is drawn into the globe which apparently draws the blood up to the surface ( I think) . We passed a back street "clinic" in Chin Chong (population 19 million) and saw a man on a table covered in these little globes, did not look too pleasant, however I am led to believe that lots of top movie stars in the USA get this treatment.
Anyway, now back home with feet up, resting before I head south at 5 a.m., just getting a bit too old for all this running about !!!
Police Statistics
Just wanted to comment on a TV programme which was on STV on Monday night relating to the use of statistics by the Police.
An ex met PC has been doing an expose of how the numbers game is seriously effecting policing.
This is not a new problem, when I joined the Police in 1966 it was a problem also. My boss used to complain if I put in a crime report for something which we might not be able to solve.
There was one Sunday morning, very early, a milkman said that there was a car in Mayburn, Loanhead, with the door open. When I went to check it out I ended up with 15 cars in the area all broken into , and several hours later I was sitting in the office writing out all these Crime Report Forms ( No 17) when the Sergeant arrived. He went ballistic, ranting and raving, etc, and told me that I could just stay on and phone them all down to the DHQ which took ages.
HOWEVER, totally different ball game about a week later when the two culprits were caught, The Sergeant sat and did all the cancellations ( 17 A) and put his name on the bottom as the reporting officer.
In the early 80's when I was in Crime Intelligence I used to go though the Annual reports with a fine tooth comb and work out the "real" solvency rates, and more recently I did the same with the 2005/2006 Report and the problem still persists.
In the 60's / 70's there were always either three or four officers on duty in Penicuik on all shifts, nowadys you are lucky to have two on at a time and they sometimes have to cover more than one Station.
Current problem here is that the former Divisional Commander for Mid and East Lothian overspent his budget by so much that they cannot afford to pay ovetime to cover shifts. He managed to get himself a plumb job in London but has been recalled at the insistence of his peers who have been suffering as a result of his incompetence.
An ex met PC has been doing an expose of how the numbers game is seriously effecting policing.
This is not a new problem, when I joined the Police in 1966 it was a problem also. My boss used to complain if I put in a crime report for something which we might not be able to solve.
There was one Sunday morning, very early, a milkman said that there was a car in Mayburn, Loanhead, with the door open. When I went to check it out I ended up with 15 cars in the area all broken into , and several hours later I was sitting in the office writing out all these Crime Report Forms ( No 17) when the Sergeant arrived. He went ballistic, ranting and raving, etc, and told me that I could just stay on and phone them all down to the DHQ which took ages.
HOWEVER, totally different ball game about a week later when the two culprits were caught, The Sergeant sat and did all the cancellations ( 17 A) and put his name on the bottom as the reporting officer.
In the early 80's when I was in Crime Intelligence I used to go though the Annual reports with a fine tooth comb and work out the "real" solvency rates, and more recently I did the same with the 2005/2006 Report and the problem still persists.
In the 60's / 70's there were always either three or four officers on duty in Penicuik on all shifts, nowadys you are lucky to have two on at a time and they sometimes have to cover more than one Station.
Current problem here is that the former Divisional Commander for Mid and East Lothian overspent his budget by so much that they cannot afford to pay ovetime to cover shifts. He managed to get himself a plumb job in London but has been recalled at the insistence of his peers who have been suffering as a result of his incompetence.
Frustrating day
Well, Tuesday Turned out to be fairly quiet, but one of thosedays that someone wanted to talk to you all the time so it was impossible to get much done.
Couple of Mondays patrons arrived, one quite cheery having been to the bookies to collect his winnings, albeit it was only about £15., The other for a hair of the dog, and to admit that he had lost about £400 on Monday. He was saying that he does not have much luck at the horse, but does a lot of punting on golf tournaments where he does very well.
Engineer arrived so the Sportsman Bar is the proud owner of a flashy double chilled tap for Tennents Lager and Stellar Artoir, but you cannot please everyone - the beer is so cold that it pours without a head some times so you have to liven it up off the normal tap.
The lovely Michelle took over prompt so I had a quick run up the road, losing the plot in the traffic queues and jams in Dalkeith, I need to drive with the windows closed to stop people hearing me cursing.
Sparky Marky picked me up in his "heaterless" Ford to go to Bonnyrigg to a meeting at 720, Lodge Dalhousie. I am the ass treasurer, but as the Treasurer, Walter Dick, had forgotton to bring the books he was holding for me I had a quiet night. I won 1st prize in the raffle, nice bottle of Grouse Whisky which will add to my collection
Cletic lost 2. 0 at the football but Scotland won at Murrayfield against Romania. Might be different on Sunday 23rd against New Zealand. I believe that our Graham was at the match and is still snoring off the effects of celebrating.
Off today, so going to town with Ann, chance to rest before heading south again tomorrow.
Couple of Mondays patrons arrived, one quite cheery having been to the bookies to collect his winnings, albeit it was only about £15., The other for a hair of the dog, and to admit that he had lost about £400 on Monday. He was saying that he does not have much luck at the horse, but does a lot of punting on golf tournaments where he does very well.
Engineer arrived so the Sportsman Bar is the proud owner of a flashy double chilled tap for Tennents Lager and Stellar Artoir, but you cannot please everyone - the beer is so cold that it pours without a head some times so you have to liven it up off the normal tap.
The lovely Michelle took over prompt so I had a quick run up the road, losing the plot in the traffic queues and jams in Dalkeith, I need to drive with the windows closed to stop people hearing me cursing.
Sparky Marky picked me up in his "heaterless" Ford to go to Bonnyrigg to a meeting at 720, Lodge Dalhousie. I am the ass treasurer, but as the Treasurer, Walter Dick, had forgotton to bring the books he was holding for me I had a quiet night. I won 1st prize in the raffle, nice bottle of Grouse Whisky which will add to my collection
Cletic lost 2. 0 at the football but Scotland won at Murrayfield against Romania. Might be different on Sunday 23rd against New Zealand. I believe that our Graham was at the match and is still snoring off the effects of celebrating.
Off today, so going to town with Ann, chance to rest before heading south again tomorrow.
Tuesday, 18 September 2007
1st Frost
Morning, very chilly outside and we have the first real frost of this coming winter. Will have to defrost the windscreen.
Thought Bob Malcolm was off to Las Vegas, but no, he is bright as a button on the radio.
Pub quietened down last night so the little princess (Kerrin) looked after the quiz folks and put place to bed, whilst Robbie, Coala Hugger, and I am guessing here headed to the Mercat where he led Graham astray. They are both off to see Scotland at Murrayfield tonight playing Romania - better do well. And Celtic are away o the Ukraine.
Anyway short and sweet - need to head off soon.
Thought Bob Malcolm was off to Las Vegas, but no, he is bright as a button on the radio.
Pub quietened down last night so the little princess (Kerrin) looked after the quiz folks and put place to bed, whilst Robbie, Coala Hugger, and I am guessing here headed to the Mercat where he led Graham astray. They are both off to see Scotland at Murrayfield tonight playing Romania - better do well. And Celtic are away o the Ukraine.
Anyway short and sweet - need to head off soon.
Monday, 17 September 2007
Donna Murray
Sadly, I have to say that our friend Donna Murray died on Friday , aged 43 years, as a result of cancer.
I have known Donna and her husband Andy for a number of years and can only convey our sympathies to the family.
Donna had been unwell for some time, before doctors realised that she was suffering from incurable cancer, and despite giving her a few months to survive, she passed away quietly after only a matter of weeks.
Donna, a nurse, was quite a character, a strong personality who loved her family very much and will greatly missed by Andy who has managed to cope under very serious pressure. They have three children who will need all the support they can get.
Thinking back a number of years, we had Donna and Andy at the barracks for a Sunday, "fun day", and everyone took part in an obstacle course, which ended up with all the unfit participants hobbling around Penicuik for days afterwards.
Andy worked at Edinburgh Crystal glass before being made redundant on its closeure.
The funeral is on saturday next at the Sacred Heart Church, Penicuik, at 10 a.m.
I have known Donna and her husband Andy for a number of years and can only convey our sympathies to the family.
Donna had been unwell for some time, before doctors realised that she was suffering from incurable cancer, and despite giving her a few months to survive, she passed away quietly after only a matter of weeks.
Donna, a nurse, was quite a character, a strong personality who loved her family very much and will greatly missed by Andy who has managed to cope under very serious pressure. They have three children who will need all the support they can get.
Thinking back a number of years, we had Donna and Andy at the barracks for a Sunday, "fun day", and everyone took part in an obstacle course, which ended up with all the unfit participants hobbling around Penicuik for days afterwards.
Andy worked at Edinburgh Crystal glass before being made redundant on its closeure.
The funeral is on saturday next at the Sacred Heart Church, Penicuik, at 10 a.m.
Musselburgh races
Good luck and bad luck . Punters gave me some tips so I had a 1st and 2nd doubled which gave me a£6 return on my £6 , however, a couple came in and said that they were up from Cheshire to back their horse, so I stuck a £5 e.w. on it but it was nowhere to be seen - down £4 on the day.
Musselburgh is generally seriously unpredictable as anything can happen.
Weather wise, a bit chilly despite the sun but a very poor turn out.
End result, Shaun and i had a fairly quiet day, got a few jobs done before Robbie and Kerrin took over.
Musselburgh is generally seriously unpredictable as anything can happen.
Weather wise, a bit chilly despite the sun but a very poor turn out.
End result, Shaun and i had a fairly quiet day, got a few jobs done before Robbie and Kerrin took over.
Winter is here.
Rather cold and windy morning, perfect for the Holiday Monday (September weekend) and with Musselburgh Races on today, not the kind of weather anyone wants to be standing out in.
Have not seen the national forecast but we have quite a few away for the weekend , many to Blackpool for their annual trip to see the famous illuminations. ( light bulbs swinging in the gales).
Another bad night for me, however , system beginning to come to and then it is off, via Shaun's and down the road early in case I have to go to the bank and cash and carry.
Brain far too confused for me to be sending E mails this morning.
Robbie has reported that the karaoke was good last night, nice crowd who all enjoyed themselves, so the Final, hopefully will be great next Sunday - something for me to look forward to as I am on I think.
Have not seen the national forecast but we have quite a few away for the weekend , many to Blackpool for their annual trip to see the famous illuminations. ( light bulbs swinging in the gales).
Another bad night for me, however , system beginning to come to and then it is off, via Shaun's and down the road early in case I have to go to the bank and cash and carry.
Brain far too confused for me to be sending E mails this morning.
Robbie has reported that the karaoke was good last night, nice crowd who all enjoyed themselves, so the Final, hopefully will be great next Sunday - something for me to look forward to as I am on I think.
Sunday, 16 September 2007
SCAMS
Some weeks ago I received a series of letters from the "Unclaimed Prize Register", PO Box 107, Ross on Wye, saying that I had won a prize in a national competition, all I had to do was phone a priority phone number and get an allocation code, or write to them. I checked the web and found several adverse comments about this organisation . However, I wrote, stating that if I had wone I would like my prize, if not I would write to the Trading Standards, etc. Yesterday I received a letter saying I had won a miniture camera and all I had to do was return my voucher along with £6.50 to PO Box 107.
In the same post I received a letter from "The Award Winners Exchange" PO Box 29, Ross on Wye. telling me that I had definitely won a prize in another competition and all I had to do was make a six minute phone call & £1.50 per minute to get my claim number !!! Here we go again.
Answer is tear them all up, or check them out on the web and pass details to Trading Standards.
In the same post I received a letter from "The Award Winners Exchange" PO Box 29, Ross on Wye. telling me that I had definitely won a prize in another competition and all I had to do was make a six minute phone call & £1.50 per minute to get my claim number !!! Here we go again.
Answer is tear them all up, or check them out on the web and pass details to Trading Standards.
Kind of tired today.
Saturday waS a long day, and I was up early again this morning to take Graham to the Mercat, then to the Sportsmans, where I heard that Chick had taken unwell last night. Anyway, Chick arrived, nearly as large as life and would not take a telling !!!
Discovered that I had forgotton the sandwiches so had to go back to Edinburgh for them - what a running about, and eventually headed home at 2 p..m in time to see the end of the Belguim Grand Prix where Lewis Hamilton came in 4th.
Sparky arrived later to fix a leak - and managed to do so without flooding the house.
Semi final of the karaoke competition tonight, with the final next week.
Musselburgh Races on Monday so all hands on deck again.
Discovered that I had forgotton the sandwiches so had to go back to Edinburgh for them - what a running about, and eventually headed home at 2 p..m in time to see the end of the Belguim Grand Prix where Lewis Hamilton came in 4th.
Sparky arrived later to fix a leak - and managed to do so without flooding the house.
Semi final of the karaoke competition tonight, with the final next week.
Musselburgh Races on Monday so all hands on deck again.
Our Willie and his pal Gerard
Have been meaning to load this picture for some time. This is my brother in law, William ( on the right), and while we were on holiday in Hong Kong he recognised this chap !! He went and spoke to him and was correct in that it was Gerard Heullier, former Liverpool manager who agreed to have his photograph taken.Coincidentally, having met him on this occasion on "The Peak", which is the main viewpoint for the city, we bumped into him on another two occasions.
Saturday, 15 September 2007
Trying a flash back session
OK going to have a go at short feed backs based on things which have happened today - may not make sense to everyone but for several it will.
Firstly, Ann had a look at the blog for the first time and said that she should be vetting it - NOT !!
Busy at pub until I left but has been steady since then -
Shaun missed his bus, having to travel from Penicuik, 1 hour each way must be a bit of a bind when you have no car - anyway he did phone in, and there was no problem.
Hannah, this was her last day at "The Mercat Bar", she is off to Australia on holiday and then will be so busy working at the Scottish Executive that she will be unable to give us much help, to Hannah, best of luck, you have been superb.
I hear that Jonathon (my nephew) Jamie Gair and Stevie all had serious sore heads this morning.
Marky Sparky, came home after K.T's and had his tea and drinks. He was saying that he nearly blew up his mother when he left the elecric kettle, full of water on a hob on his electric cooker. Hob was switched on, base of kettle melted and there was a big bang - fortunately mother survived.
Gordon and Sandra have reported back on our last day out, BBQ at the Courtyard bar, after I left, seriously under the weather, they headed up town and eventually, much later on, arrived at CC Blooms, where much to Gordon's horror, he was invited up to dance by another "chappie".
Karen Finlay, and friends called in to the bar, they are off tonight to Benidorm to attempt to drink the place dry this week. Karen is a great worker who had been with us for three years, and her pal, little Karen, likewise, but she a mega problem when under the influence.
Andrew Brash is walking about with a tooth, or crown of tooth in his wallet having lost it the other night grinding his teeth.
All the best to Billy King, at 70 + bored out his skull in the Victoria Hospital recovering from both heart surgery and a hip replacement.
Chris Reid, and family, very concerned about grandad, 90+ , who is in hospital and hopefully on the mend.
Grant, Photogenix, trying his best to support us following the loss of budgie - hard to accept the inevitable.
KT's today were good, worked a Malta, with three candidates - nice degree. And Dennis Morrison was good enough to send in a nice letter of apology.
Thinking of Archie and Tracy, not heard from them in a couple of weeks, and Ray ( @ Grandad) moving house so he is out of touch. And Danny and Katrina. On the other hand spoke to Normin( @ stormin Normin) who I have not heard from for a while - good one Norman , see you on Tuesday at 720.
Tonight's wine is Hardys VR Shiraz 2005 on offer at £3.99 from Sommerfields.
Robbie was saying his dad in Australia was reading this daily to hear what was going on, look forward to seeing him in December.
Right, had enough, been a long few days, new brain in morning
Firstly, Ann had a look at the blog for the first time and said that she should be vetting it - NOT !!
Busy at pub until I left but has been steady since then -
Shaun missed his bus, having to travel from Penicuik, 1 hour each way must be a bit of a bind when you have no car - anyway he did phone in, and there was no problem.
Hannah, this was her last day at "The Mercat Bar", she is off to Australia on holiday and then will be so busy working at the Scottish Executive that she will be unable to give us much help, to Hannah, best of luck, you have been superb.
I hear that Jonathon (my nephew) Jamie Gair and Stevie all had serious sore heads this morning.
Marky Sparky, came home after K.T's and had his tea and drinks. He was saying that he nearly blew up his mother when he left the elecric kettle, full of water on a hob on his electric cooker. Hob was switched on, base of kettle melted and there was a big bang - fortunately mother survived.
Gordon and Sandra have reported back on our last day out, BBQ at the Courtyard bar, after I left, seriously under the weather, they headed up town and eventually, much later on, arrived at CC Blooms, where much to Gordon's horror, he was invited up to dance by another "chappie".
Karen Finlay, and friends called in to the bar, they are off tonight to Benidorm to attempt to drink the place dry this week. Karen is a great worker who had been with us for three years, and her pal, little Karen, likewise, but she a mega problem when under the influence.
Andrew Brash is walking about with a tooth, or crown of tooth in his wallet having lost it the other night grinding his teeth.
All the best to Billy King, at 70 + bored out his skull in the Victoria Hospital recovering from both heart surgery and a hip replacement.
Chris Reid, and family, very concerned about grandad, 90+ , who is in hospital and hopefully on the mend.
Grant, Photogenix, trying his best to support us following the loss of budgie - hard to accept the inevitable.
KT's today were good, worked a Malta, with three candidates - nice degree. And Dennis Morrison was good enough to send in a nice letter of apology.
Thinking of Archie and Tracy, not heard from them in a couple of weeks, and Ray ( @ Grandad) moving house so he is out of touch. And Danny and Katrina. On the other hand spoke to Normin( @ stormin Normin) who I have not heard from for a while - good one Norman , see you on Tuesday at 720.
Tonight's wine is Hardys VR Shiraz 2005 on offer at £3.99 from Sommerfields.
Robbie was saying his dad in Australia was reading this daily to hear what was going on, look forward to seeing him in December.
Right, had enough, been a long few days, new brain in morning
My rant and rave about Friday.
Some notes about Friday 14th.
Another bad night and up early.
Graham was up the garden still convinced that the missing budgie might reappear.
Graham wanted the car so I took out my trusty steed of steel, mounted up , and made it safely to the garage where I blew up a couple of soft tyres. Motorcycle tyres deflate very slowly when not is use so you have to check them regularly.
Heading through Bilston when I made the serious error of overtaking a lady in a blue Nova with a nice little green "L" plate on the car. She appeared to be rather displeased that I had passed her, cut up on my insde and tried to force me into a keep left island, with her hand kept solid on the horn - I presume that the menopause was upon her , or that she was just plain loony. Ann later suggested that "I should have punched her lights out", which I take to be yet another female response.
Fairly steady day in the pub, managed to get some chores done, acquire additional stock and change to cope with the weekend.
Sent Chick home to put his teeth in before he went to the bank in case he frightened the tellers. Robbie took over and managed to juggle shifts to get some proper cover for the weekend _ I think, and even had a busy evening.
Headed home at 5 p.m. and eventually caught up with a convoy of three tracorts on the back road from Rosewell to Howgate, all travelling about 50 yards apart, loaded high with bales of hay, and causing total chaos. No one could get by them as they were so close and moving at speeds between 5 mph and 25 mph. I can assure you that the Angels looked very kindly upon a couple of drivers who took serious risks to get past.
Home in time for a quick bite of tea then back down the road again to Bonnyrigg for the half yearly meeting of the Provincial Royal Arch Chapter. Very good attendance from as far afield as Greenock. However, manged to get myself into a bit of a tizzy later on so not being good company left for home, where my day was finished off by watching England receive a sound thumping by South Africa at the rugby world cup 33 - 0. Looks like it is back to the drawing board again.
No Saturday noon, have already been to the Mercat to drop off Graham, and down here at the Sportsmans since 8.45 a.m. - end result is that the best is lovely, lager is ice cold and sweet, and IPA , near perfect.
Both Paul and Chick in cleaning this morning so place is spick and span, Michelle R. on the bar which is still quiet, but should pick up with four football games on the TV this afternoon.
Princess Kerrin called to say Hi., and offer to work as she does not have "big school" on Monday and will be allowed out to play on Sunday. She is off to a fancy dress party tonight as "Zoro's " missus.
Meeting Sparky Mark at Dalkeith 2 p.m if it is quiet here to go see the working of a Malta degree at the K.T.'s.
Another bad night and up early.
Graham was up the garden still convinced that the missing budgie might reappear.
Graham wanted the car so I took out my trusty steed of steel, mounted up , and made it safely to the garage where I blew up a couple of soft tyres. Motorcycle tyres deflate very slowly when not is use so you have to check them regularly.
Heading through Bilston when I made the serious error of overtaking a lady in a blue Nova with a nice little green "L" plate on the car. She appeared to be rather displeased that I had passed her, cut up on my insde and tried to force me into a keep left island, with her hand kept solid on the horn - I presume that the menopause was upon her , or that she was just plain loony. Ann later suggested that "I should have punched her lights out", which I take to be yet another female response.
Fairly steady day in the pub, managed to get some chores done, acquire additional stock and change to cope with the weekend.
Sent Chick home to put his teeth in before he went to the bank in case he frightened the tellers. Robbie took over and managed to juggle shifts to get some proper cover for the weekend _ I think, and even had a busy evening.
Headed home at 5 p.m. and eventually caught up with a convoy of three tracorts on the back road from Rosewell to Howgate, all travelling about 50 yards apart, loaded high with bales of hay, and causing total chaos. No one could get by them as they were so close and moving at speeds between 5 mph and 25 mph. I can assure you that the Angels looked very kindly upon a couple of drivers who took serious risks to get past.
Home in time for a quick bite of tea then back down the road again to Bonnyrigg for the half yearly meeting of the Provincial Royal Arch Chapter. Very good attendance from as far afield as Greenock. However, manged to get myself into a bit of a tizzy later on so not being good company left for home, where my day was finished off by watching England receive a sound thumping by South Africa at the rugby world cup 33 - 0. Looks like it is back to the drawing board again.
No Saturday noon, have already been to the Mercat to drop off Graham, and down here at the Sportsmans since 8.45 a.m. - end result is that the best is lovely, lager is ice cold and sweet, and IPA , near perfect.
Both Paul and Chick in cleaning this morning so place is spick and span, Michelle R. on the bar which is still quiet, but should pick up with four football games on the TV this afternoon.
Princess Kerrin called to say Hi., and offer to work as she does not have "big school" on Monday and will be allowed out to play on Sunday. She is off to a fancy dress party tonight as "Zoro's " missus.
Meeting Sparky Mark at Dalkeith 2 p.m if it is quiet here to go see the working of a Malta degree at the K.T.'s.
Friday, 14 September 2007
Thursday was a long day
A wee bit tired this morning.
Despite not going out to work yesterday I spent most of the day either on the computer or doing paperwork, and was still in my housecoat at 3 p.m. Anyway, then went to bank ( Hi Christine), shops etc, had tea , before going to masonic meeting at Dalkeith.
Well done to big Ian for his new position for this year, he snever stops, between his work on the taxis, his radio job with Black Diamond, and everything else.
Andy Brash had bad toothache having lost a crown from his tooth, not very nice. Anyway , chaps were ingood form and it was an excellent evening.
Sparky Mark, called late on, so he is still in one piece having survived five days of work without destroying any dwellings occupied by "homo sapien".
This mornings letter to Bob
Morning Bob,
you know Bob, we men just cannot win can we?
Yesterday I went to the shops to get some messsages, popped into the supermarket, great, not a soul at the checkouts with two operators sitting chatting, BUT BUT, by the time I had scooted round there were queues, so they called for another operator and of course folks were then diving across for the other till to open. Anyway, decided to buy Ann some fowers to replace the ones I bought in August for our anniversary, as the heads had dropped off. Got home and she said, "what have you been up to, these are only the second bunch of flowers you have ever bought me" ( not true), then , out the blue - " you have never taken me on a date in 37 years ! Whats that all about ?
However I won some wee bottles of perfume in a raffle last night and she liked them.
Otherwise, this styleaphone thing, whatever happened to the comb and Izal paper, its demise started with the introduction of quilted toilet paper, or the Gzzuu. (There is now a new styleaphone on the market which you can play along with your MP3 player)
OK , time to bash on, must be at Sportsmans early to see the Bellhaven engineers and find out what got flooded last night during Robbie the Koala huggers shift.
Despite not going out to work yesterday I spent most of the day either on the computer or doing paperwork, and was still in my housecoat at 3 p.m. Anyway, then went to bank ( Hi Christine), shops etc, had tea , before going to masonic meeting at Dalkeith.
Well done to big Ian for his new position for this year, he snever stops, between his work on the taxis, his radio job with Black Diamond, and everything else.
Andy Brash had bad toothache having lost a crown from his tooth, not very nice. Anyway , chaps were ingood form and it was an excellent evening.
Sparky Mark, called late on, so he is still in one piece having survived five days of work without destroying any dwellings occupied by "homo sapien".
This mornings letter to Bob
Morning Bob,
you know Bob, we men just cannot win can we?
Yesterday I went to the shops to get some messsages, popped into the supermarket, great, not a soul at the checkouts with two operators sitting chatting, BUT BUT, by the time I had scooted round there were queues, so they called for another operator and of course folks were then diving across for the other till to open. Anyway, decided to buy Ann some fowers to replace the ones I bought in August for our anniversary, as the heads had dropped off. Got home and she said, "what have you been up to, these are only the second bunch of flowers you have ever bought me" ( not true), then , out the blue - " you have never taken me on a date in 37 years ! Whats that all about ?
However I won some wee bottles of perfume in a raffle last night and she liked them.
Otherwise, this styleaphone thing, whatever happened to the comb and Izal paper, its demise started with the introduction of quilted toilet paper, or the Gzzuu. (There is now a new styleaphone on the market which you can play along with your MP3 player)
OK , time to bash on, must be at Sportsmans early to see the Bellhaven engineers and find out what got flooded last night during Robbie the Koala huggers shift.
Thursday, 13 September 2007
R.I.P.
I think, that after a week we have to accept that our dearly departed budgie, Bluey, has now gone to that great aviary in the sky - god rest his little soul.
The possible culprits for this departure are a. one evil looking black cat , or b) a grey squirrell, but I am not sure if squirrells eat budgies !! This one has taken to prowling about on the roof of the conservatory - maybe looking for his next meal.
One of our less feeling friends suggested "buy the cat a treat, get a canary"
On the same sad note, big George (the brickie), told us that his wife's little dog died on Friday. He is really a big sogtie at heart, because despite threatening to throw it in the Esk on several occasions, he is now missing " the patter of little feet" in the morning. And on the same note, and in the same breath, George said that his Granny had died on the same day as the dog, aged 81 years. Our thoughts are with the family.
The possible culprits for this departure are a. one evil looking black cat , or b) a grey squirrell, but I am not sure if squirrells eat budgies !! This one has taken to prowling about on the roof of the conservatory - maybe looking for his next meal.
One of our less feeling friends suggested "buy the cat a treat, get a canary"
On the same sad note, big George (the brickie), told us that his wife's little dog died on Friday. He is really a big sogtie at heart, because despite threatening to throw it in the Esk on several occasions, he is now missing " the patter of little feet" in the morning. And on the same note, and in the same breath, George said that his Granny had died on the same day as the dog, aged 81 years. Our thoughts are with the family.
Shaun / Michelle C.
Big thanks to Shaun and Michelle C. who were working last night and who said that, despite everything, they had a great time with the crowd in the Sportsman s Bar
Sorry about the "flak" you had to take later, you were only doing your job.
Sorry about the "flak" you had to take later, you were only doing your job.
The Legal Point of view
This is a follow up to the previous blog " Scotland 1 - France 0" and an unfortunate conflict of views / opinions which occurred after the game last night.
Obviously all licensed premises are governed by the law and we have prescribed opening and closing hours , as laid down by the local licensing boards, which also state that there is a 15 minute drinking up period after which time the premises must be clear of patrons.
I have had problems in the past with both patrons refusing to leave (which led to an assault) and a Police officer who took me to task, twice, for failing to clear the premises.
We now close the bar 15 minutes before the normal closing time which gives 30 mins "to drink up and get out".
Unfortunately - last night, some of our patrons were unhappy that we closed the bar on time considering that" the Police would look the other way in view of the exceptional circumstances".
Sadly, it does not work this way, and all it would have taken was a single complaint by a neighbour, etc, or an observant CCTV operator, and we would have been liable for prosecution.
As a point of law, the hours permitted on our license, do not mean that we have to be open during those hours, a licensee is permitted to open and close at any time within those hours at his discretion.
Staff on duty are responsible for ensuring that the laws are complied with, and in the event of a breach, the Licensee, whether present or not is also liable.
Obviously all licensed premises are governed by the law and we have prescribed opening and closing hours , as laid down by the local licensing boards, which also state that there is a 15 minute drinking up period after which time the premises must be clear of patrons.
I have had problems in the past with both patrons refusing to leave (which led to an assault) and a Police officer who took me to task, twice, for failing to clear the premises.
We now close the bar 15 minutes before the normal closing time which gives 30 mins "to drink up and get out".
Unfortunately - last night, some of our patrons were unhappy that we closed the bar on time considering that" the Police would look the other way in view of the exceptional circumstances".
Sadly, it does not work this way, and all it would have taken was a single complaint by a neighbour, etc, or an observant CCTV operator, and we would have been liable for prosecution.
As a point of law, the hours permitted on our license, do not mean that we have to be open during those hours, a licensee is permitted to open and close at any time within those hours at his discretion.
Staff on duty are responsible for ensuring that the laws are complied with, and in the event of a breach, the Licensee, whether present or not is also liable.
Scotland 1 - France 0
Morning, a long day yesterday, worked in pub all day and then made it home for a quick about turn and back to Dalkeith for 7p.m. So I missed the big game. We got the half time results at 9.15 p.m. and everyone was delighted when news of the goal came in. Down side later on, but I will write about in next blog.
To Bob Malcolm
It is obviously a superb morning, especially after last nights result - well done Scotland. Our Graham and one of his staff had £5 each on McFadden to score and the other lad had a double with the full time result. I actually missed the game as I was in a meeting at Dalkeith which lasted most of the game, but some of the punters at Musselburgh let me know how good a night they were having in my absence.
In response to a wee feature about meeting folks while away on holiday.
Anyway, a few years ago Ann and I were on holiday in Jamaica, lying at the poolside, one of our group said " see that guy trying to get up the coconut tree, he's from Scotland" So I went over to this very big chap on his girlfriends shoulder clinging onto the tree. Got talking, then the penny dropped and said -"I know you, you live at Slipperfield Farm, West Linton", It was Big Jim, who was West Linton "The Whitman" about the same time Graham was the "Hunters Lad".
Your "Son of a Farmer" question was bang on cue as I was about to send this message.
Cheers.
PS - about dog's dinners - the reverse being that " my Granny used to eat dog biscuits, the black ones".
(Bob and Carol Ann give their dogs tea and toast in the morning)
To Bob Malcolm
It is obviously a superb morning, especially after last nights result - well done Scotland. Our Graham and one of his staff had £5 each on McFadden to score and the other lad had a double with the full time result. I actually missed the game as I was in a meeting at Dalkeith which lasted most of the game, but some of the punters at Musselburgh let me know how good a night they were having in my absence.
In response to a wee feature about meeting folks while away on holiday.
Anyway, a few years ago Ann and I were on holiday in Jamaica, lying at the poolside, one of our group said " see that guy trying to get up the coconut tree, he's from Scotland" So I went over to this very big chap on his girlfriends shoulder clinging onto the tree. Got talking, then the penny dropped and said -"I know you, you live at Slipperfield Farm, West Linton", It was Big Jim, who was West Linton "The Whitman" about the same time Graham was the "Hunters Lad".
Your "Son of a Farmer" question was bang on cue as I was about to send this message.
Cheers.
PS - about dog's dinners - the reverse being that " my Granny used to eat dog biscuits, the black ones".
(Bob and Carol Ann give their dogs tea and toast in the morning)
Wednesday, 12 September 2007
The runaway Train
This is the wee train which ran around our complex in Spain. William and I took it one day, for 200 yards (downhill) and the driver did not even ask for my bus pass.
However there was one day when we all went for a walk and were a bit knackered and took it straight home but it toiled a bit on the steep hills.
Have suggested it might be a model for the Edinburgh Tram system !!! see next post
Tuesday, 11 September 2007
Tea Time Tuesday
Have been working in The Sportsmans all day, been quietish but at the same time every time you move away from the bar someone wants a drink. Anyway, Michelle is now in and in charge.
Stuart, the chef had a day off and has taken Graeme Dreever away to his stister's house at Galashiels where he plans to stay for a while, having handed in his notice.
At one stage there were three Stuart's in the bar, so it was Hi Stuart, Hi Stuart and Hi Stuart, all very confusing.
Heading off to the first of four masonic meetings this week, the next three months will be a bit hectic as I have a lot of committments to fulfill.
I saw a lorry today, firm called D.A.D. from somewhere down south, thought that was unusal, just think of the responses to the question " Where's DAD"
Crawling along the High Street,
Stuck in traffic,
Going downhill fast,
Going round the bend,
Had a breakdown, or is it just me ?
Stuart, the chef had a day off and has taken Graeme Dreever away to his stister's house at Galashiels where he plans to stay for a while, having handed in his notice.
At one stage there were three Stuart's in the bar, so it was Hi Stuart, Hi Stuart and Hi Stuart, all very confusing.
Heading off to the first of four masonic meetings this week, the next three months will be a bit hectic as I have a lot of committments to fulfill.
I saw a lorry today, firm called D.A.D. from somewhere down south, thought that was unusal, just think of the responses to the question " Where's DAD"
Crawling along the High Street,
Stuck in traffic,
Going downhill fast,
Going round the bend,
Had a breakdown, or is it just me ?
Flowers for Kerrin
This was a close up of some really nice flowers in the garden in Spain. Just for Kerrin who was working last night and said that she had missed us.
As usual I had misspelled her name, apologies, it is now correct.
As usual I had misspelled her name, apologies, it is now correct.
Really rough today
I need to moan, feeling terrible this morning, bad nights sleep, leg cramps, nightmares, the whole works - and I still have a long day ahead of me.
Anyway, yesterday I saw one of the blue and white NWH lorries in Dalkeith, doing a tight turn into the High Street single handed as the driver chatted on his mobile phone.
Letter to Bob.
Oh , what a stushie yesterday. The wife ( Ann) saw that advert on TV for Forth 1 and went daft, she says that they should have one of the more handsome, mature, experienced D.J.'s, like youself on the advert and not some wee slip of a girl. She wants your fan club to get up a petition to your boss !!
Still no sign of Budgie so I think he must be in the great aviary in the sky.
Two grumps this morning ( old habits die hard) , I think power steering and automatic gearboxes were invented for mobile phone users, especially in lorries and buses - I saw one of those big blue and white lorries in Dalkeith yesterday afternoon, driver doing a tight manoeuvre single handed !! and
Driving towards Whitecraig following a nice wee new car with personalised plates, the occupants were flinging coke cans out like grenades causing me at first to swerve. When you think all the time spent on anti litter adverts, etc some folks are just plain inconsiderate or stupid.
Anyway, yesterday I saw one of the blue and white NWH lorries in Dalkeith, doing a tight turn into the High Street single handed as the driver chatted on his mobile phone.
Letter to Bob.
Oh , what a stushie yesterday. The wife ( Ann) saw that advert on TV for Forth 1 and went daft, she says that they should have one of the more handsome, mature, experienced D.J.'s, like youself on the advert and not some wee slip of a girl. She wants your fan club to get up a petition to your boss !!
Still no sign of Budgie so I think he must be in the great aviary in the sky.
Two grumps this morning ( old habits die hard) , I think power steering and automatic gearboxes were invented for mobile phone users, especially in lorries and buses - I saw one of those big blue and white lorries in Dalkeith yesterday afternoon, driver doing a tight manoeuvre single handed !! and
Driving towards Whitecraig following a nice wee new car with personalised plates, the occupants were flinging coke cans out like grenades causing me at first to swerve. When you think all the time spent on anti litter adverts, etc some folks are just plain inconsiderate or stupid.
Feeling better already, having got that off my chest.
Photos from Grant were very good, as you can see on the two previous blogs, just takes me time to fathom out what I am doing.
Anyway, in for a long day, off to work at The Sportsmans Bar, till tea time then my masonic season starts in ernest with a meeting at Tranent tonight. Cheers.
Monday, 10 September 2007
A Pretty flower
Sorry, do not know the name of this flower, there were lots on the bush at our apartment and the petals opened up in the sunlight and closed at night. In a close up there is actually a bee collecting pollen in this one.
The shipwreck
As promised, here are the pictures of the stranded cruiser. It was blown ashore in a storm, stripped by vandals or looters. In the two days I watched it it was being moved on the rocks by the sea and is only a matter of time before it breaks up.
Litter louts
Down at Musselburgh waiting for a delivery from Bellhaven Brewery.
On the way here called in to see Grant at Photogenix, Bonnyrigg, and get the photos developed from last week, there are some good ones there.
On the back road from Dalkeith to Whitecraig I was following a small grey car, personalised number plaes J15SHG, and it was like running the gauntlet, empty coke cans were being flung out like hand grenades. To think, that way back in 1987 I introduced "Schoolwatch" the anti vandalism campaign to schools in Mid and East Lothian along with Yvonne Murray. We worked with Keep Britain Tidy people and had some great projects running , but their was not enough support overall to develop it into a national scheme, although having said that there were schools all over the place who picked up on it in some way or another and Alan Blackie, Director of Education, East Lothian, worked with the Police to develop it a bit further in East Lothian after I retired.
With all the publicity about litter and recycling, green policies you would think that some of these "clarty" individuals would think twice.
On the way here called in to see Grant at Photogenix, Bonnyrigg, and get the photos developed from last week, there are some good ones there.
On the back road from Dalkeith to Whitecraig I was following a small grey car, personalised number plaes J15SHG, and it was like running the gauntlet, empty coke cans were being flung out like hand grenades. To think, that way back in 1987 I introduced "Schoolwatch" the anti vandalism campaign to schools in Mid and East Lothian along with Yvonne Murray. We worked with Keep Britain Tidy people and had some great projects running , but their was not enough support overall to develop it into a national scheme, although having said that there were schools all over the place who picked up on it in some way or another and Alan Blackie, Director of Education, East Lothian, worked with the Police to develop it a bit further in East Lothian after I retired.
With all the publicity about litter and recycling, green policies you would think that some of these "clarty" individuals would think twice.
It is very quiet here
Still no sign of budgie and the house is very quiet without him. For a little bird he had a great personality and influence and it is only when he is missing you realise the impact.
Ann has been out checking the trees again , but with no luck.
Slowly getting the suitcases and washing sorted out, it is the usual mess just takes time but I have to try and get some work done at the same time.
Graham was on BBC News 24 this morning answering questions on the effect of the smoking ban - he did well considering he had no idea what they were going to ask him.
Already been in to the Mercat, spoken with Claire, Ian, and Rob and Caitlin who are having a couple of well earned days off.
Will be off shortly to see how TheSportsman is doing.
Ann has been out checking the trees again , but with no luck.
Slowly getting the suitcases and washing sorted out, it is the usual mess just takes time but I have to try and get some work done at the same time.
Graham was on BBC News 24 this morning answering questions on the effect of the smoking ban - he did well considering he had no idea what they were going to ask him.
Already been in to the Mercat, spoken with Claire, Ian, and Rob and Caitlin who are having a couple of well earned days off.
Will be off shortly to see how TheSportsman is doing.
Back home to no budgie
Arrived back into Edinburgh at 1145 p.m. a bit later than expected. so have sent this to Bob
Hi Bob,
Sending you this early as I might not be up in time for the 8 a.m. despatch.
Morning, back with a bump, quite literally as we had a rough landing at Edinburgh Airport, late last night, and quite a shock to the system walking out into the cold wind here.
Headed home, with sad hearts as we had heard that Bluey, the budgie was,missing having flown out the back door after Graham on Friday afternoon. We even had a look in the trees last night but for a little bird it is too much to expect. On the same sad theme, our neighbours pet West Highland terrier was put to sleep on Saturday and they too are totally devastated. You know, we take on board these pets, get so attached and go through all this strife when something happens to them - we are certainly a nation of pet lovers, despite the occasional bad publicty about some of the cruel goings on by a minority.
Our friends left us 24 hours early, having made a mistake when booking their return flight, so it is a good word of warning, check your travel arrangements thoroughly - in their case they had intended arriving at the airport 24 hours after their flight had left.
I will keep you posted.
Graham away today to do an interview for the TV about the smoking ban and the effect it is having on pubs, etc.
Hi Bob,
Sending you this early as I might not be up in time for the 8 a.m. despatch.
Morning, back with a bump, quite literally as we had a rough landing at Edinburgh Airport, late last night, and quite a shock to the system walking out into the cold wind here.
Headed home, with sad hearts as we had heard that Bluey, the budgie was,missing having flown out the back door after Graham on Friday afternoon. We even had a look in the trees last night but for a little bird it is too much to expect. On the same sad theme, our neighbours pet West Highland terrier was put to sleep on Saturday and they too are totally devastated. You know, we take on board these pets, get so attached and go through all this strife when something happens to them - we are certainly a nation of pet lovers, despite the occasional bad publicty about some of the cruel goings on by a minority.
Our friends left us 24 hours early, having made a mistake when booking their return flight, so it is a good word of warning, check your travel arrangements thoroughly - in their case they had intended arriving at the airport 24 hours after their flight had left.
I will keep you posted.
Graham away today to do an interview for the TV about the smoking ban and the effect it is having on pubs, etc.
Sunday, 9 September 2007
What a tragedy
Saturday and it all went wrong,
Firstly Graham called to say that Bluey the Budgie is missing, he apparantly flew out the door trying to follow Graham into the garden. Graham is really upset as the wee bird was his pet and was really attached to him. Hopefully he will not have gone far and might be in the nearby trees, but the wild birds might attack him.
His cage is out in the garden in the hope that he may return to it - a small chance.
His photo is on an earlier blog under "psycho budgie"
Have not heard from Graham yet so there is no update, but we have to work under the assumption that no news is bad news.
Phoned our neighbours ( Mike and Jane) to tell them and ask for their their help but they too had suffered a loss, their little white west highland terrier was in the process of being put to sleep by the vet, Rannoch, 14 yrs old, and some character . He was terminally ill and suffering so it was for the best. But why do we put ourselves out for these pets when we know that being very attached it is difficult when something happens to them.
3rd. We went to confirm our plane flight times, and Sandra discovered that she was due to fly out at 0055 this morning and not Monday morning as she thought - a real blow as she was losing a day, and we had booked a late flight to spend the Sunday with them . Anyway they are away now and will have been home in London for several hours now. It pays to double check your bookings !!
Good result for Scotland at the football, and some excellent games of rugby, William and I spend a lot of time watching the games and finishing off the tins of beer that Chris and Ailsa had left for us.
We are now out of our apartment, have dumped our cases and will spend the day at the poolside, before getting changed and taking the coach to the airport at 5 p.m. With luck and all being well we should be home about 11.30 p.m.
OK Thats me.
Firstly Graham called to say that Bluey the Budgie is missing, he apparantly flew out the door trying to follow Graham into the garden. Graham is really upset as the wee bird was his pet and was really attached to him. Hopefully he will not have gone far and might be in the nearby trees, but the wild birds might attack him.
His cage is out in the garden in the hope that he may return to it - a small chance.
His photo is on an earlier blog under "psycho budgie"
Have not heard from Graham yet so there is no update, but we have to work under the assumption that no news is bad news.
Phoned our neighbours ( Mike and Jane) to tell them and ask for their their help but they too had suffered a loss, their little white west highland terrier was in the process of being put to sleep by the vet, Rannoch, 14 yrs old, and some character . He was terminally ill and suffering so it was for the best. But why do we put ourselves out for these pets when we know that being very attached it is difficult when something happens to them.
3rd. We went to confirm our plane flight times, and Sandra discovered that she was due to fly out at 0055 this morning and not Monday morning as she thought - a real blow as she was losing a day, and we had booked a late flight to spend the Sunday with them . Anyway they are away now and will have been home in London for several hours now. It pays to double check your bookings !!
Good result for Scotland at the football, and some excellent games of rugby, William and I spend a lot of time watching the games and finishing off the tins of beer that Chris and Ailsa had left for us.
We are now out of our apartment, have dumped our cases and will spend the day at the poolside, before getting changed and taking the coach to the airport at 5 p.m. With luck and all being well we should be home about 11.30 p.m.
OK Thats me.
Saturday, 8 September 2007
Another nice day
Walking along to the cafe this morning the air is fresh and the views of the bay and surrounding mountains very clear, so I think it will be a hot one.
Yesterday we decided on the beach to get away from dumper truck man, and moved further along to a busier part than the one we usually go to. The sunbeds were great, big thick cushions, so it was obvious we were going to sleep to make up for a disturbed night.
The waves were fairly big and there were blokes out surfing, which I think was unusual , and walking along the beach we could see that the shipwreck had been pounded and moved a bit. This morning i will take anopther photo just to show the difference.
Managed to get a sleep, read books and jumped in and out the sea. Plenty of the "looky looky" boys on the beach, watches, sunglasses, CD´s, dresses, and also Chinese women offering massage. There was a crowd of them rounded up a couple of weeks ago and out of the 21 caught 3 were totally illegal.
By the time we headed home we knew that we had been out in the sun, and all are suffering from sunburn. Anyway we had loads of water then loads of drink to accompany yet another good meal made by the Chef, Ann.
Spoke with Shaun during the day at Musselburgh, and Princess Kerrin in the evening before eventually speaking to Stuart and getting his news. Claire, bless her little cotton socks, was still on board at the Mercat hours after her usual time keeping an eye on Paddy and the new Chef - called me Darling !!! cannot wait to get get home.
Looks like Graham B. is missing, as I have not heard from him in the past two days.
Watched the rugby, good result for Argentina, that will shake things up.
Everyone now intrigued by the Madelline Mccann story and developments.
Not sure what is happening tomorrow yet, we are supposed to be out of the house by 10 a.m. but do not fly home till 8 p.m. and William and Sandra 12 mn.
Yesterday we decided on the beach to get away from dumper truck man, and moved further along to a busier part than the one we usually go to. The sunbeds were great, big thick cushions, so it was obvious we were going to sleep to make up for a disturbed night.
The waves were fairly big and there were blokes out surfing, which I think was unusual , and walking along the beach we could see that the shipwreck had been pounded and moved a bit. This morning i will take anopther photo just to show the difference.
Managed to get a sleep, read books and jumped in and out the sea. Plenty of the "looky looky" boys on the beach, watches, sunglasses, CD´s, dresses, and also Chinese women offering massage. There was a crowd of them rounded up a couple of weeks ago and out of the 21 caught 3 were totally illegal.
By the time we headed home we knew that we had been out in the sun, and all are suffering from sunburn. Anyway we had loads of water then loads of drink to accompany yet another good meal made by the Chef, Ann.
Spoke with Shaun during the day at Musselburgh, and Princess Kerrin in the evening before eventually speaking to Stuart and getting his news. Claire, bless her little cotton socks, was still on board at the Mercat hours after her usual time keeping an eye on Paddy and the new Chef - called me Darling !!! cannot wait to get get home.
Looks like Graham B. is missing, as I have not heard from him in the past two days.
Watched the rugby, good result for Argentina, that will shake things up.
Everyone now intrigued by the Madelline Mccann story and developments.
Not sure what is happening tomorrow yet, we are supposed to be out of the house by 10 a.m. but do not fly home till 8 p.m. and William and Sandra 12 mn.
Friday, 7 September 2007
Getting too old.
last night we were all shattered with our previous few days misbehavior, so it was a very quiet night.
William has caught a cold AND COUGHS ALL THE TIME SO ENDED UP SLEEPING DOWNSTARS ON THE SOFA, BUT SAYS HE WAS AWAKE MOST OF THE TIME ' HE EVEN HAD A VISIT FROM THE CAT AT 3 A.M.
Hit the wrong key.
This morning a maniacial Spaniard is driving a dump truck up and down the road outside the Apartmant shifting a big pile of rocks and earth which were dropped off yesterday. Unlike our own workmen, these guys started at 7 a.m. and have wakened a whole section of the complex. So between the gardeners and the workies i think there is a plot to get us wound up again before we come home.
To get peace i suspect that we will have to head down to the beach today, but at least the sea wind has dropped and the sea is calm, it was just a bit rough yesterday.
William has caught a cold AND COUGHS ALL THE TIME SO ENDED UP SLEEPING DOWNSTARS ON THE SOFA, BUT SAYS HE WAS AWAKE MOST OF THE TIME ' HE EVEN HAD A VISIT FROM THE CAT AT 3 A.M.
Hit the wrong key.
This morning a maniacial Spaniard is driving a dump truck up and down the road outside the Apartmant shifting a big pile of rocks and earth which were dropped off yesterday. Unlike our own workmen, these guys started at 7 a.m. and have wakened a whole section of the complex. So between the gardeners and the workies i think there is a plot to get us wound up again before we come home.
To get peace i suspect that we will have to head down to the beach today, but at least the sea wind has dropped and the sea is calm, it was just a bit rough yesterday.
Thursday, 6 September 2007
3 minutes
Hi,
evening and we are shattered. Chris and Ailsa have gone off to their villa up the coast a bit. We are all exhausted with last nights antics and having had a short walk, jumped on the mini train and are now having a quick coffee before heading back to get the feet up. Not an exciting day, wee swim this morning, then took the girls to the big supermarket where we got even more food for our resident chef to prepare. No complaints about the food the in house catering is magig, thanks to Ann We just have to do the washing up which only takes a jiff.
Cheers
evening and we are shattered. Chris and Ailsa have gone off to their villa up the coast a bit. We are all exhausted with last nights antics and having had a short walk, jumped on the mini train and are now having a quick coffee before heading back to get the feet up. Not an exciting day, wee swim this morning, then took the girls to the big supermarket where we got even more food for our resident chef to prepare. No complaints about the food the in house catering is magig, thanks to Ann We just have to do the washing up which only takes a jiff.
Cheers
Ten green bottles !!
No , they were not hanging on the wall, all empty i am afraid to say after another excellent evening in sunny Spain.
We haded to the beach yesterday morning where we all managed to get wet, despite the fact that the sea is a bit colder than usual , seems that this year Spain has generally been cooler than usual.
There is a wreck on the rocks nearby, apparantly blown there during bad weather.
Ended up back in our nice garden area beside the pool so at least you do not get sand in your pants, etc.
Cat kept us company, she is like a black panther and now follows us around.
Chris and Ailsa arrived late on in the afternoon after a good drive from the other side of Gibralter. they were stopped for over an hour in a long queue near Gib where the Police were searching lots of motors.
Our Chef, Ann , prepared a wonderful feast for us which was washed down with many bottles of assorted wines, beers and spirits. Good old fashioned 60´s muusic in the background, just like the Sportsmans, and our Spanish neighbours joined us again. It was a sort of SAGA louts reunion!!
Pleased to see that Princess Kerrin took the trouble to check in and comment this morning.
To Graham and all, Hi
We haded to the beach yesterday morning where we all managed to get wet, despite the fact that the sea is a bit colder than usual , seems that this year Spain has generally been cooler than usual.
There is a wreck on the rocks nearby, apparantly blown there during bad weather.
Ended up back in our nice garden area beside the pool so at least you do not get sand in your pants, etc.
Cat kept us company, she is like a black panther and now follows us around.
Chris and Ailsa arrived late on in the afternoon after a good drive from the other side of Gibralter. they were stopped for over an hour in a long queue near Gib where the Police were searching lots of motors.
Our Chef, Ann , prepared a wonderful feast for us which was washed down with many bottles of assorted wines, beers and spirits. Good old fashioned 60´s muusic in the background, just like the Sportsmans, and our Spanish neighbours joined us again. It was a sort of SAGA louts reunion!!
Pleased to see that Princess Kerrin took the trouble to check in and comment this morning.
To Graham and all, Hi
Wednesday, 5 September 2007
Long night
been up since 4.30 a.m. as i could not sleep, and then the bucket motor passed - these guys must have a better network than the Masons to be able to track me down.
nyway, we had a great day yesterday, i took William away to a massive shopping complex and we wandered, had coffee , bought him a good pair of sunglasses then , armed with a long shopping list went to the supermarket.
We did well, got nearly everything, but managed a tin of red peppers instead of tomatoes and calamari instead of onion rings. Never mind, the girls were happy. Bought a whole case of liquid sustinance - red, rose, gin, vodka, etc.
Apartment was all decorated when we got back and it was a real surprise for William, dinner was lovely - we just styed out on the lawn and took our time, lovely ceaser salad with rose wine, and a magnificent sponge and fresh fruit cake with ream, topped off with williams name and birthday in dark chocolate - accompanied by a bottle of bubbly.
Our Spanish neighbours joined in for drinks, they cannot speak english - catallonian, and we cannot speak spanish but we had a good laugh and they enjoyed the company. The man, nicknamed General, his name is "Custard" I think, brought his own home made red wine, and as he said complete with toenails for authenticity.
Ok ' time to go , as i am out to get fresh bread for breakfast.
Chris and Ailsa are due up today.
Hi Michelle, nice talking to you last night.
nyway, we had a great day yesterday, i took William away to a massive shopping complex and we wandered, had coffee , bought him a good pair of sunglasses then , armed with a long shopping list went to the supermarket.
We did well, got nearly everything, but managed a tin of red peppers instead of tomatoes and calamari instead of onion rings. Never mind, the girls were happy. Bought a whole case of liquid sustinance - red, rose, gin, vodka, etc.
Apartment was all decorated when we got back and it was a real surprise for William, dinner was lovely - we just styed out on the lawn and took our time, lovely ceaser salad with rose wine, and a magnificent sponge and fresh fruit cake with ream, topped off with williams name and birthday in dark chocolate - accompanied by a bottle of bubbly.
Our Spanish neighbours joined in for drinks, they cannot speak english - catallonian, and we cannot speak spanish but we had a good laugh and they enjoyed the company. The man, nicknamed General, his name is "Custard" I think, brought his own home made red wine, and as he said complete with toenails for authenticity.
Ok ' time to go , as i am out to get fresh bread for breakfast.
Chris and Ailsa are due up today.
Hi Michelle, nice talking to you last night.
Tuesday, 4 September 2007
William is 60
Beunos Dias, good morning,
William has reached the big 60 today, and does not look a day older. We have some surprises in store for him later, I think.
Yesterday was lovely, tried to relax and chill out but the gardener was going beserk with his strimmer and mower , for about four hours. His ear protectors were to stop him hearing all the curses and threats being shouted at him. And he is about to start somewhere nearby this morning.
Anyway, went out for a meal, ened up playing Blackjack with the entertainment team and I actually won the game so we had an extra bottle of wine to finish off.
I am not sure that we want to keep a tally because it is slightly !! over the levels prescribed by the Dr for healthy drinking.
Chris Reid phoned lat last night, he is doing fine, out and about visiting wine houses, and is coming to stay for the night on Wednesday.
have adopted a black cat for the week, minus part of its ear and it has big fangs.
OK, breakfast then the shops while we set up William later.
William has reached the big 60 today, and does not look a day older. We have some surprises in store for him later, I think.
Yesterday was lovely, tried to relax and chill out but the gardener was going beserk with his strimmer and mower , for about four hours. His ear protectors were to stop him hearing all the curses and threats being shouted at him. And he is about to start somewhere nearby this morning.
Anyway, went out for a meal, ened up playing Blackjack with the entertainment team and I actually won the game so we had an extra bottle of wine to finish off.
I am not sure that we want to keep a tally because it is slightly !! over the levels prescribed by the Dr for healthy drinking.
Chris Reid phoned lat last night, he is doing fine, out and about visiting wine houses, and is coming to stay for the night on Wednesday.
have adopted a black cat for the week, minus part of its ear and it has big fangs.
OK, breakfast then the shops while we set up William later.
Monday, 3 September 2007
Out at the cafe
Hi,
morning is getting hotter, but gardener is cutting the grass and doing my head in. Willie and self now out to look for wine and a treat for lunch, and have left the ladies lying beside the pool.
I see from the Sunday Mail that David Beckham is going to start wearing tight trousers to see if it will help him and Posh produce a girl. Ann suggested that he take them off as it might help, or speak to Rod Stewart who has a bevy of lovely lasses. I thought he might like a shot of my "speedos" .
Willie is all excited, some horses have just past us, and there is no bookies shop to get a bet on !!!
.
morning is getting hotter, but gardener is cutting the grass and doing my head in. Willie and self now out to look for wine and a treat for lunch, and have left the ladies lying beside the pool.
I see from the Sunday Mail that David Beckham is going to start wearing tight trousers to see if it will help him and Posh produce a girl. Ann suggested that he take them off as it might help, or speak to Rod Stewart who has a bevy of lovely lasses. I thought he might like a shot of my "speedos" .
Willie is all excited, some horses have just past us, and there is no bookies shop to get a bet on !!!
.
Sunny Spain
made it in one piece to Edinburgh airport after nearly sleeping in and had a good flight out to Malaga.
Met william and Sandra at airport and we all took the train to Fingerolla and then taxi up to the Club de Costa complex. Have a lovely apartment with sun, yes sun all the day round .
Although it was 4 p.m. before we got out side it was a great afternoon and we never moved from our little garden.
managed to get locked in the apt and only found out the door was jammed when we ran out of drink, but handyman arrived and soon the fridge was full again.
Great nights sleep and now the sun is up and the others are sitting out with their tea, etc.
Chris Reid texd me yesterday so i know he is in the area and likely to come up,
Off now.
Met william and Sandra at airport and we all took the train to Fingerolla and then taxi up to the Club de Costa complex. Have a lovely apartment with sun, yes sun all the day round .
Although it was 4 p.m. before we got out side it was a great afternoon and we never moved from our little garden.
managed to get locked in the apt and only found out the door was jammed when we ran out of drink, but handyman arrived and soon the fridge was full again.
Great nights sleep and now the sun is up and the others are sitting out with their tea, etc.
Chris Reid texd me yesterday so i know he is in the area and likely to come up,
Off now.
Saturday, 1 September 2007
Its been a long day
hi,
What a day, after getting home grom all my morning chores I then had to hit Costco at Loanhead this afternernoon, head back to the Mercat and drop off supplies.
Stuart, Paddy and David were doing a deep clean of the kitchen, well done lads.
Jeremy, our Ass manager, I have the greatest respect for, I hope you are still taking notes.
Then down to the Sportsmans Bar, Musselburgh, where, unfortunately I had words with one of my friends, a most sincere and reliable supporter , however, there comes a time when irrespective the degree of frienship words have to be spoken.
Keith, computer wiz in for his pints of Bellhaven Best, and was lucky enough to have Jane pop in to buy him another before they hit the Indian for a "super ruby murray"
My girls from last night, Karen and Karen were there to wish us a good holiday.
Place was super busy being a race day, Robbie hanging in there great guns ; Shaun doing his usual; The wonderfull tiny Kerrin keeping both in their places. Stuart seconded from the Mercat was in his element, and the shaven headed Simon taking my place on the door.
To all at both the Mercat and Sportsmans, thanks, you are just the best.
What a day, after getting home grom all my morning chores I then had to hit Costco at Loanhead this afternernoon, head back to the Mercat and drop off supplies.
Stuart, Paddy and David were doing a deep clean of the kitchen, well done lads.
Jeremy, our Ass manager, I have the greatest respect for, I hope you are still taking notes.
Then down to the Sportsmans Bar, Musselburgh, where, unfortunately I had words with one of my friends, a most sincere and reliable supporter , however, there comes a time when irrespective the degree of frienship words have to be spoken.
Keith, computer wiz in for his pints of Bellhaven Best, and was lucky enough to have Jane pop in to buy him another before they hit the Indian for a "super ruby murray"
My girls from last night, Karen and Karen were there to wish us a good holiday.
Place was super busy being a race day, Robbie hanging in there great guns ; Shaun doing his usual; The wonderfull tiny Kerrin keeping both in their places. Stuart seconded from the Mercat was in his element, and the shaven headed Simon taking my place on the door.
To all at both the Mercat and Sportsmans, thanks, you are just the best.
brunch break
1230 and have been chasing my tail since yesterday.
Worked at Sportsmans last night with Robbie, and the two Karens - very good crowd, friendly, steady and with some great singers on the karaoke. Wee paul was in giving his rendition of Flower of Scotland and 500 miles.
Lady Kerrin and four of her friends arrived, looking "tres glam", all dressed up to go to a 21st party at the Quayside. They never reappeared so they must have had a good night.
Fun and games out in the street earlier in the afternoon with a wee bit of tribal warfare taking place - not sure of all the facts, but I am sure the police, who attended in force have matters well in hand.
Later on, another couple of "eejits" decided to fall out after a visit to the chippi, the proverbial handbags at ten paces a with the occasional rolling about in the gutter to raise the eyebrows of passers by. On this occasion they had left on two different busses to return to their respective fields before the Police arrived.
Home at 02.45 , and up again at 0815. Dropped Graham at The Mercat, visited Bookers fine establishment at Longstone, went to Standing order for a quick chat to Archie before heading home.
In George Street watched Edinburgh's finest traffic wardens in action, they are so enthusiastic about their work, if their pay is performance related they will be loaded.
had a nice wee e mail from Nikki the nanny in the US of A, looks like all the interpersonal skills and drinking practice she had in musselburgh are standing her in good stead.
Worked at Sportsmans last night with Robbie, and the two Karens - very good crowd, friendly, steady and with some great singers on the karaoke. Wee paul was in giving his rendition of Flower of Scotland and 500 miles.
Lady Kerrin and four of her friends arrived, looking "tres glam", all dressed up to go to a 21st party at the Quayside. They never reappeared so they must have had a good night.
Fun and games out in the street earlier in the afternoon with a wee bit of tribal warfare taking place - not sure of all the facts, but I am sure the police, who attended in force have matters well in hand.
Later on, another couple of "eejits" decided to fall out after a visit to the chippi, the proverbial handbags at ten paces a with the occasional rolling about in the gutter to raise the eyebrows of passers by. On this occasion they had left on two different busses to return to their respective fields before the Police arrived.
Home at 02.45 , and up again at 0815. Dropped Graham at The Mercat, visited Bookers fine establishment at Longstone, went to Standing order for a quick chat to Archie before heading home.
In George Street watched Edinburgh's finest traffic wardens in action, they are so enthusiastic about their work, if their pay is performance related they will be loaded.
had a nice wee e mail from Nikki the nanny in the US of A, looks like all the interpersonal skills and drinking practice she had in musselburgh are standing her in good stead.
Must try and fit some more into the case before tomorrows departure.
Plea for help - should any of my readers feel able to assist Graham and co while we are away, please do so, your assistance or offer would be much appreciated.
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