I AM NO LIZ JONES.

I have to say I disagree with The Daily Mail fashion writer, 04/05/2010 She does not like the thick tights and shoes that Carey Mulligan is shown wearing in a picture with Miu Miu outfit. I do....I also think Carey is by far and a way a style icon, she is fresh, young, sassy, bright, intelligent, original and classy. Forget all the other glitzy women with whom she shares page 23.



I am very much in favour of the style that you find on Joe Brown clothing. It is quirky and I love the tie dye, the dip dyed, the tie up style dresses. Leggings worn with shorts, which I have now taken to wearing, wear with really light cardigans. I like florals and light coloured lace with anything black this season.



I like harem pants, I like maxi dresses as well and recently found a stunning example in black in my usual haunt of the charity shops.



I know perfume is very personal, I wear Avon, Rare Gold (Autumn) and warm and Rare Silver (Summer) not fashionable I know but they suit me and are not expensive. On a pension you have to be careful. I have renovated some jewellery, for the Hippy look I really wish I could design jewellery. I really look forward to a warm summer to remind me of the era of peace and california.



With the credit and money situation, recycle clothes...it is dead easy and you can have a real fun time and look original which allows you to stand out in the crowd of sheep who do not venture past the High Street.

I am still, sort of the happy to shop in Bluewater but many of the shops remain far to expensive.

Granny

BERTHA GLEGHORN

Does anyone know where this lady was buried, second world war?

WHAT THE TV IS FOR

The best performance in a Drama...on the BBC = Sue Johnson and Alun Armstrong in a Passionate Woman. Two of the best of our actors ..... Long may they reign.

Sunday on the BBC 18th April 2010 which is why I pay my licence fee.

Songs of Praise
Country File - I loved the young man who wants to be a farmer...PLEASE help him someone.
Antiques Road Show (shame that it clashed with Foyles War - ITV)
A Passionate Woman
Great British Railway Journeys

Why I watch TV in General.
I Love Ross Kemp and his documentaries.
Stephen Fry for his mind
Katy Brand, what a girl and Jenny Eclair with her Grumpy Old Women
Tony Robinson - everything as he does.
David Attenborough
Michael Palin
Prof Brian Cox
Fiona Bruce

Anything, Art, History and Science.

Where I find an chance to learn.

Granny xx

VOTING

Let those in the Labour and Conservative Parties understand that this election is not a two horse race. They do have to realise that their lack of understanding will allow more than the Liberals to get a nose in.

The election should be about 'service' to society not individual politicians aspirations or arrogance about seniority/experience.


Something needs to be done about the 'fashion' of killing among gangs and young people...the result I have to say as a result of the 'sterilisation' of police stop and search powers.

Dogs as weapons of offence...is a real problem. It is also an issue of dogs in families...I don't leave my beloved dog unsupervised with my grandchildren. Dogs are unpredictable, but a dog should not face the death penalty when it cannot defend itself....just because it is a dog...the owners should be punished....

Who do I trust....Michael Portillo, Vince Cable, make of that what you will. Granny

GO WITH THE FLOW-GET A LIFE

Yes I guess it is very stressful if you are stranded, but a lot more stressful if in a plane affected by volcanic ash!!!!!! Caution over risk, damned if the authorities had not grounded planes and damned if a plane had crashed. Let's face it we are too reliant on aircraft for everything.... time for a re-think about our life styles. Let us not put profit over lives....

Bring some commonsense to this situation people. Granny

THE PARTY OF COMMON SENSE

That new political party I have been thinking of starting, is based on common sense, using great and brilliant minds that happen to be female. There are judges, lawyers, doctors, medical staff, social workers, entrepreneurs,accountants, professors, managers, musicians, actors, fashion designers, teachers, sporty type, police officer, TV presenter, hard worker and not a gender specific occupation among them. All these jobs can be done and are done by women young and old. This means that they have many and varied views on how to run the country.

From the date we got the vote the argument has been why can't or rather why didn't women create a party of their own? why did they follow the old 'male' political parties? While I do not describe myself as a feminist in the 'bra burning' second wave genre, I do think the women in the current parliament are not only token but some are really awful at their jobs and represent the old established parties to the detriment of 'women' 'children' 'families' and workers. I can honestly say none of the current crop inspire me, they are 'shadows'.

I think that it is this fact that many women 'outside' parliament are turned off by politics, especially young women. I know that I am turned off.... I am also in a state of flux, I want to use my hard fought for right to vote because I believe in democracy. Could someone tell me who I can vote for? I do not want to vote for the main three or any of the smaller and more extreme parties most of them sicken me. There are however debates that must be undertaken if we are to save the place we live from sinking in social disorder and state debt.

That leaves me, with no option but to vote for myself....and I can't do that. I believe that if a person does not use their vote, then they cannot complain about the out come or the policies.

See the problem, so where are all the women who want to make a difference? My previous employment has given me my sense of service to community it has always given me my purpose. Politics should be the same, the better we can make the state work for all the people the better it is for everybody.

Work for the PEOPLE.

Granny.

FASHION

There are some brilliant fashions out there at the moment, great bold florals, light and floaty neutrals, bold geometrics so plenty of choice for everyone. However too many fashions are 'youth' focused. I am very keen for example on the shorter 'Ra Ra' type skirt over leggings but in terms of size the main brands forget the average woman.

I am an Urban Outfitters fan, I get my ideas there but I refuse to pay their prices. As I have bleated about before I use my old clothes with key new purchases. My 'style book' is my reference point.

I am now a regular Bluewater visitor, my office is five minutes away. There are some fantastic shops there and I enjoy a quick wander around either the top floor or ground floor. I have always been a Punky Fish fan, the original quirky shop. I notice lots of sales so I guess it is either a 'changing seasons' or just that people are not buying....a lesson there I think.

I love the lighter fabrics, which can be worn in lovely layers. One of my key purchases this year was a pair of high heeled sneakers from New Look, they are comfortable (perhaps the best I have) and a heel that is substantial enough to walk on, they look fantastic. They work well with all that I have clothes wise. I also purchased a Punky Fish parachute (tieup) dress in black which I wear with Harem pants. I have three pairs of Punky Fish baggy trousers two black and one grey purchased in a sale, very good value...they work with a wide range of tops.

Accessories are key to making an older outfit trendy. I love Yumi, they have some great items to 'Jazz' up the dull or old. I also use a lot of pashmina type wraps to add colour. Another great second hand purchase, a yellow, black and white '60's geometric tunic which I can team with a related colour 'T' shirts and leggings for summer wear and different looks.

I do like 'Romantic' but I am much more an 'Edgy' person having said that I am delighted to see long dresses and skirts are back in the 'Hippy' style. I am an old Hippy and these styles take me back to a time when 'peace and love' were the watch words. I knew I would become fashionable at some stage in my life.

We must always link fashion to music, and there are some fantastic female singers out there. They also bring distinctive looks to their sounds. Lady Gaga is such an example, my personal favourite is Paloma Faith.

If I have a message for young women, it is this, forget the airbrushed images, be yourself, value your bodies as they are. Dress your bodies that raise your self esteem, do not believe that you have to have a 'herd' mentality. I do not hide my breast that has been changed by cancer, I have even gone topless.....your body is yours 'Love it'.

Granny

BACK WITH A BANG

I have been quite for a while for which I am sorry.

I am retired now and I am enjoying being able to do what I want.

My plan for my blog is to move to more focused work.

Politics, I would like to start a new party...dedicated to the many bright and clever, young and all generally disillusioned, disenfranchised women.

I would like to get into parliament to try an be a voice of check and balance. Avoiding the awful party system which seems to me to be where people go to promote themselves only. As a independent I have no alligence except to my contituents - free to speak unfettered on issues. I invisage my key issues to be on, further empowerment of women through education, but I want women to feel free to choose what they want. No woman should be disadvantaged if she wants to stay at home and bring up a child. My education plan would be to provide both men and women with key skills to bring up children and manage a budget. Education is vital but it is important that there are traditional elements such as reading, writing and mathematics. I would like to see a focus on an re introduction of History, Geography and Art. For people need to be rounded individuals to succeed. I don't believe in wholly faith schools they are too limiting in vision. I want to move away from dictatorship of religion, not anti religion but it must not control peoples choices of sex and sexual orientation. For myself I am Christian, I adore Desmond Tutu, but that is just for me I don't preach or push it on others.

I would be arguing for a greener programme, I would like to see alternatives in energy. I want a real focus in saving the world environments for animals....if we don't humans could become extinct.

I want a complete change in the banking world....no more fat cats...no more expences for politicians and no bonuses for MP's.


I want a government that shrinks the 'Big Government' but that doesn't mean I don't believe that Government should shirk its responsibility to children....and should intevene to save the lives of children. I do not believe every child is best in its birth family. Equally I do not believe that 'Children's Homes' are entire answer, I would like to find another way, explore the options.

We need to embrace children in a legitimate way. I am totally opposed to making excused for those who abuse others....


Crime is another area where I want to make a difference, empowering local residents to stand up against anti-social behaviour, but I do not support vigilanties. Make the law work and do its job.
I have certain advantages in this area, being an ex Met officer who has worked in the area I live.

I psent 30 years trying to change attitudes to Rape, Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. I am disappointed that society still believes that a drunken female has a 'guilty' role in the offence...she does not, clearly it would not be possible to give clear informed choice in wether or not to have a sexual intercourse...rapist know this and often 'taint' a victims drink. What a woman wears is for her not a green light for male predation.

Well it's out there now, what say you?

Granny

MAGGIE EDWARDS BIRD

Today, I attended the funeral of my dearest friend Maggie. She and I shared many interests but especially we both had breast cancer. She lost her fight after the cancer migrated to her liver, four days after her 60th birthday. I was proud to stand with several hundred people, me in uniform, to remember her life in the way she would have wanted. I proudly stood in the honour guard. I allowed most of the people to enter and stood out side listening. I smiled at the choice of music and spoken word because her taste was mine, California Dreaming, Love Changes Everything, Islands in the Stream (Comic Relief version) Well she was Welsh. We shared many happy hours of classical music while working on our research. Maggie was diagnosed almost a year to the day that I was, we talked and she allowed me the privilege to hold her when she cried, as I had cried...in fear a fear that is shared by sufferers and their families...but it was our moment. At the end of her funeral I entered the venue, I walked up to her coffin and saluted my friend one more time, touched the coffin and said goodbye my dear friend, a personal and private moment.

In the service it was mentioned that Maggie loved the rain, and it rained and as her son George spoke of the sun casting shadows, the sun came out brilliant and bright. My tears were sharp and personal.

Life is short - we have a small time on the earth so live your life the fullest way you can. Don't apologise for yourself, you are you - be happy.

Granny xxxx

FASHION WORDS

Once again I tip my hat to 'You' magazine because once again they have my taste just right and I believe that it is worth sharing.

But before I start, I raise my glass to Biba the fashion out let of my youth...coming out of the shadows and making it to the silver screen.

On 28/06/2009 page 16 Style Notes page... they focus on yellow a favourite colour, especially in my view the shift dress by Giles. Granny

TRIBUTE

Why should a woman die because she wears the muslim veil. Standing in court where she should have been safe, giving evidence against her abuser...his actions were surely a 'guilty plea' Marw Sherbini aged 31 died in Germany in front of her 3 year old stabbed 18 times. Women really have to stand together, I may not agree with the veil but I will defend the right of women to do so if the freely choose. I do demand that religion and men uphold womens civil/human rights. Granny

ANOTHER TRIBUTE

Euan Williamson died fighting a fire in Edinburgh, saving lives....love Granny

TRIBUTE

They died together as they had lived Daniel, Joseph, William the youngest to die thus far, Jonathon and James (also Lee the same day) in Afganistan - my heart is with their families and friends.....Granny

For every death my husband plays the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards version on their award winning CD, They Shall not grow old as we that are left grow old. Valid across the years. Granny

A REPEAT MUST READ

Johnson Beharry VC 'Barefoot Soldier' is a fantastic extraordinary read. He is now become my husband and my hero. Granny

FASHION AS IT IS NOW

One of my keen interest is clothes, and colour. There are some lovely simple vest T shirts out there and fantastic colours, the basic and staple for my wardrobe. I wear under light weight or see through blouses in a complementary colour way. The longer the line the better, to avoid the bare belly look. These look great with some of the longer line white or black shorts. There are some very pretty, thin strap or strapless varied dresses (boho and my particular the plain colour 1950's style of waisted dress) about, short again and worn with footless tights if you don't have tanned legs. Tights should be of the same colour as the dress (if multi coloured it offers a chance to create different out fits, or black. The wonderful line in short Roman sandal is great, but slim ankles are a must for these.

White dresses are making a come back with some same colour embroidery or single other colour.

Per Una (of M and S)have a lovely lime green linen skirt and jacket suit, wear with white or navy for a sharp modern colourful business look. Grey is not a good business look in my view. Again I think it is to expensive.

Monsoon has some fab looks, for that special occasion, but I still think they are to expensive.

I am so glad that after October I won't have to think about 'business clothes' and will revert to my beloved hippy look.

Following my trip to Turkey, here is a tip for the Men.....DO NOT WEAR SPEEDO type trunks...GHASTLY ON ANY MALE BODY...particularly bad on the older flabby male who think they are gods gift to women, are actually perfectly disgusting. Look at your body shape and your legs then look at the hair on your body and think about the colour of the trunks. Men - socks, sandals and shorts is so not a good look.


My favourite shoes are made by Bullfrog, I have just treated myself to a low heel court shoe that has a bar across which is stretchy and hidden by a bow - called 'Gypsy' actually more 'Flamenco'. Perfect with my short Next black linen skirt with a side bow, and opaque black tights. Sassy, smart, funky and comfortable. Looks funky with my new light weight linen 3/4 length sleeve white blouse. Also with a restored to favour black sleveless, loose shirt with self colour embroidery (brought out again after three years from my archived clothes)


Don't forget to get down and dirty in the second hand shops, to make up a new look.


A trick I have learnt, Archive clothes for re-use, also seperate clothes into work and play and special. Then sort by colourways. Non of these can 'only' be used in the catagory sorted but it gives you a sense of control.


On the street I have noticed some really nice urban looks, not just like the uniform street wear. But you have to say it is a young girls world. Some girls are predictably 'chav' with huge gold earings. I also say that the return of the bright coloured velour two pieces is a disappointment...yuk.

Granny.

Michael Jackson

Michael Jackson died, I was not a fan but I am sorry for his family for his children. I was not surprised it was always a matter of when not if, such is the price of fame. He thought money would make him happy it did not, his life was a car crash other stars should take note. Granny

OLU DENIZ TURKEY 2009

My husband and I have just returned from Olu Deniz in Turkey it was wonderful and I loved it. We stayed at The Flamingo Hotel, which again I loved. I loved the nearby Mosque, the farm at the back with it's chickens and goats. Don't be put off by the call to prayer, if you don't like the sound don't go - simple as that.

Turkish business as I have mentioned before think all Brits eat a 'Full English' and speak like Del Boy and want everything 'cheap as chips'. It is in your face sometimes but hey they have a living to earn.

I jumped of Mount Babadag, paragliding...sensational 6,550.

Women should be aware that Turkish men have a fixation with us, not for our beauty or brains but rather our passports...this was admitted to us during a discussion with waiters.

Do try the Secret Garden, which is beautiful.

Watch out with cocktails some are made better than others.

Go to the Talk of the Town shown in Hisoronoe - it is a Super Drag Show, excellent costume, very funny and the guy's are great.

It get's very very very hot, be warned and take advice and wear a hat. Mosquitoes are a pain, I found lavender oil brilliant for the bite. Use the local lemon concoction for keeping them at bay. I need to be very careful, and I found it worked for me. Plus it smells great.

Try Sugar Beach go on Wednesday for Lunch and enjoy the fantastic dance troup that perform there, More 'Strictly Come Dancing' than 'Strictly Come Dancing'.

The last picture above shows the beach, which is fantastic.

I would go back tomorrow if I could. I will next year.

JAMAL

A young man was killed in Hackney early this morning. What a skillful young footballer. My heart his with his family. Granny xxx

UNKNOWN SOLDIERS

I am passionate about the history of the First World War.....They have discovered some 400 photographs in France in a barn. These are photos of such emotion, men who at rest had them taken to send to family in 1915-1916. Many would die in the heat and mud of battle. You can see them on www.independent.co.uk/unknownsoldiers and some are published in Independent magazine today.

I also recommend two books, Richard Holmes 'Tommy' is wonderful.

Read the 'Barefoot Soldier'.

Granny xxx

POISON

The current furoe will bring down the Government. I believe that they have done wrong, but we must watch carefully for 'demon' parties sneaking in and taking control....imagine CCTV in their hands! Remember the Germany of 1930's. If you value your civil liberties be warned.

Now how do we deal with this situation? Well I am thinking new political parties. Granny xxxx

MY BEAUTIFUL PEACOCK BUTTERFLY

CROOKS

If you and I did the kind of thing that has been discovered over MP's expences - we would be arrested. Now they will have the feeling that other people have of when they are means tested. Where do democrats go now? How can we point to MPs as an example for young people about how to behave. Granny xx

GERMAN SOLDIERS

I really feel I must comment on the fact that 33 German soldiers (Bundeswhr) have been killed in Afganistan since 2002. Actually they have 3,800 soldiers stationed there. They have the third highest number of soldiers behind the UK and USA. Today there was a fire fight (30) involved 4 attacker 4 injured and 4 captured. The most recent soldier killed last week was aged 22 was and he laid down his life in Kunduz. LET US PREY FOR HIS FAMILY. Let remember that our old enemy is behind the lines with us.

Help for Hero's is everybody. Love Granny xxx

MORE HISTORY

The schools and the curriculum are denying our children access to their national identity by focusing on the recent past (important thought it is). We need to look so much further back, to beyond the Medieval, beyond the Norman Conquest, beyond the Romans to the world of our forefathers. The names, the stories the people who lived and loved in the very very past.

Let me throw this name out there, Eleanor of Aquitaine.....a real Queen of England... Duchess of the Aquitane, wife of Henry II, one time wife of the King of France, Crusader, mother of Richard I, King John.....who was the woman who over saw justice and I do mean justice.....let us understand what really happened. Granny xxx

FAMILY HISTORY

Let me put this out there, 'Who Do You Think You Are?' is a great programme but it distorts the time scales involved. Looking into your family history takes time and effort. I attended the Family History Event and the Barbican yesterday, I am telling you that you need this type of thing they can help you. There was so much information, help, resources and the number of people between the hours of 9 and 5 was extra ordinary. I urge you to let your children explore their family, let them develop their identity. Don't let your family disappear. Granny

KEEP SAYING NO TO MADONNA

This woman does not have the right to subject children to her life style...she needs to think about the safety and welfare of her own children and stop fighting with their father over who has what right over them...they need both parents even if they are apart. Granny xx

MUDCHUTE PLUS

GREENWICH UNIVERSITY...

THIS IS UP FACE AND PERSONAL WITH CHIRSTMAS DINNER.

Little Donkey

Turning around this is my view, I believe that this speaks volumes

One of the calves, and then

I will leave you to decide the gender of this pig.

BABY PETER

At last the indignity of a baby being named by a letter has been named...Peter. What a cost for official inactivity with this child.

Linked to the Peter case our heart must also go out to the poor little 4 year old girl forced to give evidence against a vile human being, cross examined by harsh male voices, barristers. What could she lie about? what could she know to lie about? He took her innocence never to be regained. Many years ago I used similar techniques of interviewing with toys. I have held abused children while they told me their experiences and was grateful that I could be there for them.

Our political correctness...has been misplaced in child interventions...people can be and are evil..they tell lies about what they do to children. WAKE UP.....intervene and save a life, don't and a child dies..end of story no going back. Grannyxxx

WHY ARE PEOPLE PRATS

I am endlessly tired of drunken people on trains, bored of listening to endless mobile phone conversations, about personal and business lives, sex and why can't women put their make up on before they leave home for work?...the train is not the place. Why do some drivers, block junctions?..that causes congestion. Speed kills. Granny xxx

WAR HORSE

If you never have been to the theater, if you never go again....you must go to see 'War Horse' a National Theater production co Handspring Puppet Company at the New London Theater. It is based on the book of the same name by Michael Morpurgo. In a jam packed theater audience aged 90 to 9 I could feel them breathing. I cried from the start not because it was bad but because it was supreme.. in production and staging. The stars are the horses 'Joey' and 'Topthorn'...I will say no more. Don't be put off by the World War One theme...

Who could not be moved by this glorius production, to a standing ovation the actors took the stage to take their bows. Go Go Go and see it. My husband treated me to this treat, washed down with some champagne! on a glorius day spent in Covent Garden. I had the best day, I know you will to.

Love Granny xx

MUDCHUTE IN PICTURES

ONE OF THE WALKS.

THE TAMWORTH TWO

Lambs in the field.

One of the new spring lambs.

IN PRAISE OF MUDCHUTE FARM

Everyone must praise this place, admission is free - it is a community location. it is about the environment but has a farm, a kitchen (cafe) a nursey school and on site classrooms for school groups and equestrian centre. It is for the young and the young at heart. I took my grandson there today, and met other families and women from the WI..... it is London's best kept secret. I am going to post some pictures....while you look at them, remember this is East London withing sight and sound of Canary Wharf, after yesterday's budget consider that there is so much more to life than wealth. Love Granny

EVERYTHING

The nasty has taken a step up in politics....sleaze or what. Poisoned politicans are the rule not the exception.

Policing G20...now a huge issue, but has anybody looked at the pictures beyond their own agendas. Next time you look at some the pictures, look at the one with huge number of demonstrators penning in a much smaller number of officers in yellow, not in riot gear.....where could they go, anywhere? No and the officers in the middle are probably being crushed to death. If an officer had died would any of the noble voices spoken up for them. Oh of course the video from the activists has been in the words of the TV...edited. Let us not forget an officer died in Dagenham doing his job, apprently killed by a team of aggrivated burglars.....any thoughts...crime! what about his family.

This doesn't mean I don't agree with Shami Chakrabarti in fact I do. I believe in democracy, civil liberties, human rights, child welfare because I do. But some balance please.

To police is an art, I believe in the right for people not to be victims of crime

WHAT CAN I SAY

The best place to hide if you are a cat.

WHAT CAN I SAY

My Hero's TOM HANKS, so cool and funny on Jonathon Ross on Friday as was DIZZY RASCAL, they are both bright intelligent and articulate men. Don't underestimate Dizzy, he is so much more than his image.

I also watched a wonderful interview with Ian Hislop this weekend (09th May 2009) I was impressed by him, his intellect and in many ways a shy and self effacing person. I have seen him lecture on Victorian History, he was superb and I believe he is under used on TV. More power to him.


I am a huge fan of both Stephen Fry, Julian Cleary and Tony Robinson.

I put brains, common sense, humour, compassion, intellect and a sense of justice above any other male virtue....others are just eye candy.

If you are watching the current Robin Hood series on BBC 1 then the protrayal of King John (John Lackland) appears from what I have read to be reasonably accurate.


Please Read... Eleanor of Aquitaine by Marion Mead to learn of the back ground behind Robin Hood....Hers is quite a story, a Queen we should know more about.


The first King of all of England was Aethelstan ruling 925-940 A loss to our children is the reluctance to teach real English History. It may not be pretty but it sets the stage for everything that comes afterwards. Other countries are proud of the heritage, we are selective...which is a failing.


Granny

THINK BEFORE I SPEAK? ME!

There have been some foot in mouth moments in terms of policing - someone will pay the cost. I am sorry Ian Tomlinson died, but let us see what happens now. Bob Quick - head of the counter-terrorism let the cat out of the bag, well he is a senior officer who has had his brain removed like all the others. The most terrible story and one closest to my heart is the Baby 'P' police involvement, which if you read the original Victoria Climbie report it has a resonance - 'De ja vu' - poor supervision, poor adherence to processes and poor personal responsibility. Of course I can't comment, but what I hope happens is that the 'management' consider how they promote officers, how they select officers for sensitive roles, reducing the paper work focus of statistics, how the training of all officers focuses on investigation - they need to go to court regularly and how CID officers become CID officers....

How sad was the sight of the tragic funeral yesterday of so many of 'L'Aquila's citizens, we really should stop for a moment in our daily lives and consider how much worse things could be. The worst of gestures was Berlusconi saying come and live in 'one of my houses'.

Could someone tell me why we are not having a general election? I listened to the interview Gordon Brown gave on Radio 2 this week. I believe that he should resign and there should be an election now so that we can rebuild confidence. Everyone knows he sold off our gold reserves, America did not raid Fort Knox. He is a Bully and leads a bullying government.

Love Granny xx

WHAT A WEEK

I was pleased with the way the G20 went on, overt heavy violence would have distracted from what was important - the world financial situation. I was impressed with the TUC march, Put People First. I am also very proud of Billy Bragg singing up a storm.

Of course the way President Obama and his wife Michelle created the right mood and I am impressed by his serious understanding of the world picture but he is charismatic and has an easy manner with everybody. He took trouble to shake the hand of the police officer guarding the door of no 10. Michelle gave a wonderful speech to young girls - I believe strongly in the 'Be the Best you can be' ideology, I look at the many young women around me today and despair for them. To be a strong, successful and passionate woman will make that woman a good boss, employee or mother what ever they want. I also believe in life long learning.

So that means at last for the fact that Claire Tayor has made it to Wisden's list of crickerters of the year. Well done.


Let us speak to the situation of women in Afganistan and Pakistan make it loud and strong...NO TO RAPE IN MARRIAGE, YES TO EDUCATION, NO TO HOUSE SLAVES.

I was horrified to read in The Times 'Half of primary pupils fail to master English and maths' Dear God, what legacy are we leaving our children. Learning does begin at home, the joy of learning should be that 'A Joy' it is exploring the world in the widest sense. If you cannot read you cannot learn.


What a fuss was made about the Queen and Michelle encounter, I saw the Queen put her arm around Michelle..I saw it on the front page of The Times...so get over it. Michelle is a warm and kindly person. She is also fashion smart - and you just know that she is a great Mom and you just know she and the President love each other which makes for an all round brilliant role model.


I understand the reason for the 'girls night in' with Sarah Brown - who I prefer to her husband. But it did smack of the Victorian idea of the women leaving the men to the 'real work' with very little notice made of the female leaders present....However perhaps the women achieved more, by creating a real network. The power behind the thrones.

The picture of the week for me was the one of Silvio Berlusconi, President Obama and President Medvedev - well the old boy sure plays to the camera.

Let me suggest some reading, it is amoving and emotional book but brilliantly written. If you think poverty is a new thing.....Read 'Shadow of the Workhouse' by Jennifer Worth. It is not an 'easy' read but so important to give people an insight into the recent history of the East End. I know most of the places mentioned which made it resonate with me.


If you are studying then look at the thesis published on line by Dianne Elizabeth Payne, 'Children of the Poor in London 1700 - 1780' Feb 2008 University of Hertfordshire. Should provide any student with inspiration.


At work I have been putting a list together of child deaths in the UK as a result of abuse, because I found there was no difinitive list.....I wonder why? well the real story is horrendous....beyond the headlines believe me it is scary. I am looking at Age, relationship to perpetrator, injuries, history of family background, siblings and interventions.....I am looking for a pattern.


Today is Jade's Funeral and what sense for the wee boys to be far away. Farewell poor girl. 'Death is but a door, opening into the light of eternity'.

The best news was the jailing of Jannette Mercer, Francis and Marie Yates... parents who covered up the most terrible crime. The mere fact that all three pleaded guitly spoke volumes about the whole picture of the crime. Let it send a message to others 'You may lie but you cannot hide, be sure lies will always catch you out'. They should be ashamed that the life of a young boy Rhys Jones was snuffed out by an arrogant show off who was the product of his parents upbringing of him.


What really makes me mad? How could Christopher Foster kill his wife and daughter so callously? Why because of his debts? who gets the blame? the doctors and others except his own failings. Money is not everything and I am so angry that a young girls life was taken because he could not bear to lose the material things. He also killed his dogs and horses - he is probably the best example of the worst of capitalisms excesses. Who say's domestic violence does not exist among the rich and middle class.


My choice for the Grand National reflects these last three stories, 'CAN'T BUY TIME' I don't bet myself but in common with the country as a whole I have a view on the race. I hope no horse or rider dies.


I am angry that a female police officer disgraced the uniform by working as a prostitute.


My TV tip of the week, watch Robin Hood....I love it.

Well that's me for this week, love to all. Granny xxx

DONT' DO IT

Yes I am desperately worried about the world financial crisis. I beg people to protest peacefully - there are people who will go only for trouble and someone will get hurt or even killed. Does that make the situation better? No. The only people who suffer - the ordinary people who struggle to work and succeed. There has been one voice raised that gives particular cause for concern, sadly given news space. Here is a person who has the title Professor - teaching young minds but advocating violence and murder. We all know that the anarchists want to bring down the country - actually that's you and me in our homes, in our work places, it will endanger children's futures. Will these anarchists pay your bills? No. They are self satisfied ideologes bent on trouble not sainted saviours. Be warned. Remember 1930's Germany!!!! Granny xx

WELL DONE JENSON

When he thought he would lose his drive, he was dignified. Today he won the Australian Grand Prix, with Brawn GP. WELL DONE. Granny xx

NO MADONNA

It is an outrage that a woman, with more money than sense, is seeking to 'adopte' another child. I take the view that this is for her personal gratification rather real concern for a poor child from Africa. She wants people to think she is some kind of saint, but worse she surrounds herself with individuals she can control - if they don't play ball she dumps them. Poor little Mercy, having to live with such an egotist. It is also very patronising of her to think she is some how special and right. I find it distasteful racism, I think of the British Empire trying to save 'poor black children'. Listen to the wise words of SAVE THE CHILDREN FUND. Don't let children become the new fashion accessory.

When 'star's do this kind of thing historically there are problems, does any body remember 'Mummy Dearest' about Joan Crawford's adopted children and their reality.

Granny x

PETER KILFOYLE

I saw Peter Kilfoyle MP on Hard Talk last night, a Jimmy Tarbuck look alike, but so wise. I normally turn off the Hard Talk programme but this time I did not. Granny

THE HOME I LOVE

These are pictures of my home, I love my home - it is small and congested but it is where I feel comfortable. We had lived here for 20 years.

I do not care that my house is full 'things' mostly books and clothes ( all saved and stored and reused) I do not care if the house is chaotic and disorder, because it is where I love to be.

The daffodils are a reflection of my philosophy of life and shine a natural sun into my home.

I love my horse lamp purchased some 10 years ago, I never buy expensive items as a rule of thumb but this was my impulse purchase, I fell in love with it. It is the only thing I own which I view as a legacy item.

I so love my home - it is where I got better after cancer and it is where my step children were welcomed - indeed it was purchased with them in mind.

Let us pray for those who are less fortunate than this. Love Granny xx

WENDY RICHARD

Wendy fought the battle of breast cancer for the longest time. She died and was buried before the programme about the last period of cancer was transmitted. What a beautiful programme, I was with her when she had her chemo, I remembered that was how it was. Her husband was simply amazing, and so dignified and full of love. God Bless them both.

If the last three stories have moved you, let them open the debate about death. Most particularly how we deal with it and how we tell children about the process and result. Should we be honest or sugar coat it?


Let us not forget baby OT who died when medication was withdrawn despite the legal battle of their parents. He was nine months old, he was dead by all measure, supported by our machines...he died quickly once it was with drawn so I believe the decision to be correct. But I do not give blanket understanding. We should neither kill nor allow to live for the reasons of financial expedience nor for self centred need. I wonder how many parents fight for their own comfort as for their child. Each decision should be individual....based on scientific fact with a heavy amount of common sense, faith and love.


Granny xx

NATASHA RICHARDSON

Another mother who died this past week, but suddenly. A small insignificant fall apparently led to brain trauma, and death. She has two sons who miss her so much on this special days for mothers. Being rich, sucessful and lauded does not mean you are immune from the end that is death.

I send my prayers to the boys, Liam, Vanessa and Joely and hope that their memories of Natasha sustain them in the dark days ahead.

Granny

THE TIME HAS COME

In the quiet of night, with no camaras around poor Jade took her last breath, at peace while asleep. The God she came to late in her life has enfolded her, he allows forgiveness of all sins and she is lifted to the light. The pain is gone for her, for her family it begins. How can her boy's enjoy another mother's day? Their father must love them for both, to make them grow strong as she intended. It would be easy for the weaker members of her family to wallow.

No one could call her the brightest tool in the box, but now she is a bright star in heaven, with God's blessing she can look down with love upon her son's.

Let us pray for all those who are dying in pain.

Granny

HISTORCIAL RESEARCH

I am looking for the following people's family. This is for Historical research only.

STANLEY
SophiaAnnie Stanley, aka Croll Dalgairns
David Croll Dalgairns
Annie Maygood
Theodora Christine Stanley aka Jarvis aka Mallik
Henry Johnson Stanley
Alexander Angus Croll


PETO
Morton K Peto
Samuel M Peto
Sarah Peto
Dorothy Olivia Georgiana Peto

Please contact via this Blog, provide intial details and contact e mail.

Granny

BACCHUS, LULU AND I (I AM A CAT PERSON ALSO)

MAX

MERLOT ON FOX WATCH

SUNNY 1977

CINDY AND MERLOT

CINDY SUGAR SWEET

BACCHUS, CINDY AND I

BACCHUS AND I WHEN HE WAS A PUPPY

MARLEY AND ME

My very good friend Kelly lent me her copy of the book Marley and Me to read on the train. The train is my nemisis, I sit there on both journeys listening unwittingly to the lives and loves of my fellow passengers.....to my endless boredom. So I started to read and the journey flew by and I had a smile on my face. In fact I had to struggle not to laugh out loud. This book is easy to read and yet there underlying stress and strain of life. I would also warn you that you should not read the last chapters (you will know the ones) anywhere near a train full of people. I visioned in my mind all the characters. It is for that reason I do not suggest you watch the 'Hollywood' interpretation out now...it cannot ever match the sheer joy of reading the book. I love reading I have books all over my house, they give me the power to think.

I am a dog person, and state here that if it had not been for Merlot my staffy-whippet cross I would have been lonely. She gives us unconditional love if only people were as reliable.

Granny xx

OUR FRACTURED WORLD

America and Germany, shooting sprees kill dozen's - ban all guns in private hands now.

Northern Ireland wobbles under more stupid acts of violence - peace is a real threat to men of violence, stupid idotic biggots and power hungry maniacs, but basically criminals - to take life is a crime however you justify it. Hoody's are stupid idiots, who have no values, no sense of right .... or wrong where ever they come from - ignorant and unemployable....ripe for fascist and anarchist conversion.

Granny xx

JADE GOODY

Today, Jade will be Christened with her two sons'. It is clear she wants them to have a life and life style that she was not able have, not a fault of hers but her parents. She is trying to break the cycle. I am glad she has the sense to see that the boys' father is a stable influence. Of Jack Tweed I think little, I think he and his life answer any and all questions. Jade and Jack have declared their love and that is fine, but let Jack have a minimal involvement in the boys life...let them develop and reflect their mothers desire for a 'better life opportunity' for them not one based soley on 'celebrity'.

As I have said before I pray for her, for her boys. No one should die in such a desperate way. Of course we all die, but this poor woman knows the reality of dying in such a way that most of us will never know. Those who are rude about her should consider 'There but for the grace of God, go they'

Granny xxxx

SUSAN TSUANGIRAI

How sad is the news of a terrible car crash that robbed Susan Tsuangirai of her life. My thoughts are with her children and husband Morgan. A real marriage brought to an end by tragedy after so much suffering. For the first time I have seen anything resembling humanity from President Mugabi, and the poor Prime Ministers tears were heart breaking.

Granny.

BEXLEYHEATH

I never go to Bexleyheath to shop because I hate it, it is a pit. It is a boring place to shop and generally full of young people with no manners. Yesterday, Friday having been out for a meal with friends I drove one home via Bexleyheath and I was horrified.

It was 11pm and there was nothing but chaos - why does any town need so many bars, with bouncers? There were drunk young people every where and it was early...imagine what it was going to be like at 3am. I would be seriously worried if I was a parent of a young person locally. Only this week Rob Knox's killer was convicted and sentenced. Drink and pub life were at the core of this attack. The killer with anger management issues, could threaten and carry out an attack under cover of this lifestyle. As I drove across the borough I formed the opinion that this behaviour was the norm - and I would take a guess that if a raid on premises had taken place..under age drinking would be the norm as well. Why do I say this - replicate this situation in every town in the country, over the whole weekend, every weekend. People you are reaping the wind for your inertia.

Blame? well the individuals themselves they lack responsibility, the parents who abdicate their responsibility, the owners of the premises = greed, the government for relaxing our drinking laws. I also blame the silent majority who have allowed the power of the police to be neutered. Social interaction? means respect and these individuals do not respect themselves let alone others.

I am not a puritan by any stretch, but there will come a breaking point when the young will be unemployable because of their hedonistic life styles, this will be the norm. Add to the mix the financial situation world wide and you have wasted lives.

I recall 'Private Fraser's' of said words, "we're doomed" am I over reacting? no probably not.

The ball is in 'Your' court.

GOD BLESS

To Mr Cameron and his wife - the picture of their grief at the death of their beloved son Ivan spoke volumes and who's death brought dignity to British politics. I wish I could have put my arms around them. The length of a life is not important it is the love in that life that matters. He was so loved and he knew that to be the case.

We must also mourn the death of Wendy Richard - her struggle was heroic, and a journey I may have to take some day.

How beautiful Jade looked at her wedding, so dignified...now so tired...All my love girl.

Love Granny xxx

GOODY SUPPORT

I am really glad to see the level of support Jade is now receiving, recognising her struggle and her desire to provide for the sons she will not see grow up. Use what you can is my philosophy, well the public created Jade - best we continue to support her.

In The Independent - Opinion and Debate "Cancer patients are always 'brave'. In Jade's case, it's true" by Matthew Norman. 19/02/2009

In The Times - 19/02/2009 Carol Midgley 'Why do some people resent the brutal reality show that Jade Goody's dying has become.'

The official war correspondent in Bosnia, Peter Howson has done some fab drawings of Jade - to be turned into paintings to be sold to raise money for cancer charities. They are difficult to look at - not beautiful - but moving and of course she is fighting a war, a war in her body. A war she cannot win, and you can see the thousand yard stare.....into No Future. The Times 19/02/2009

Young women really, really have to understand that this can be them.

Granny xx

A LITTLE FASHION GOSSIP

I took a look in Next today, some nice staple bits...worth a look. A nice white linen trouser with tie waist, there are some lovely white linen tops. I also like the suit range, but individual shops have limited examples...the Next Directory is available at the door but I wont pay for this type of advertising. I will use the web.

I am on the look out for Black Linen shorts, saw some in Next that were neither short shorts, nor long line sort of mid, will look great with opaque tights.

Sunday Mail, Style magazine has some nice items, an M and S dress in black and white check with short sleves is really very smart. I might save for this dress it is due in the shops in Mid March. My parents in law gave me an M and S voucher so I am half way there already. Again it is probably not going to be in every shop, so I feel a trip to Bluewater coming on.

Considering the continued hair colour change, with some very blond highlights and a nice cut. I go to E14 hair stylist and was very pleased with what they did last time...so I will plan that little treat...save up the dosh.


Granny

SUNDAY PAPERS

All the Sunday Papers have something about the 13 year old boyfather, but let us all recognise that nothing more needs to be said except to look at the photo of his father in a Devil Mask....says it all....want to make mega bucks. Why are the baby, the boyfather and the mother not in protection? they are now being treated like a 'freak show' in the centre of a bidding war.

I really don't want to preach but I am so worried about these children, it is what the Children Act 2004 was for to ensure 360 degree child safety.

Granny

NEWS IS EVEN WORSE

Could the story about this poor little baby born to a 13 year old father and a 16 year old mother, be any worse, well yes. This case is all about boundaries, there were none and that is the problem for our society, boundaries of behaviour.

THE BOY, his parents are separated - his father has 9 children himself and is 'gobsmacked' well if he had been a proper father to his children perhaps his son would not be in this situation and his 13 daughter would also have not had a baby. Why did that first pregnancy not send up smoke signals. The father at least should have been able to say to his son... have sex = have a baby. It says a lot about the mother that this 13 year old prefers to be at his girlfriends home. Where it appears there are no rules. Why wasn't this child on the at risk register? - lack of emotional stability.

THE GIRL, One of 5 children her parents have and who are at least together but appear to be completely lacking in common sense. Allowing children to have sex on their property with their knowledge is criminal. This appears to not be a one off relationship either - so a DNA test is essential. But of course another child means more money for this family.

Can you believe that these children went to the GP by themselves. The GP suggested a pregnancy test!!!!!!!please

I was horrified yesterday when the BBC brought on a 'social worker' from the authority involved. She was intended to speak about the implications....well all I can say there is no hope if that person was the sample of the quality of social workers in place at the moment. Wet, weak ineffectual ageing hippy with ridiculous 'job speak' of the very 'liberal kind' which has become the subject of ridicule, she talked of 'support' for the families....no no no action action action.


To prosecute in this case apparently was not in the public interest, I beg to differ. It is not about 'laying blame' it is about finding the truth and getting all the parties to accept responsibility and to secure the future of this tiny baby who as far as I can see has zero chance in this world with parents and grandparents like these.

EVERY CHILD MATTERS, The Children Act 2004 made it quite clear that child safety is paramount. One of the elements, stay healthy includes sexual health. So where is the positive action from the agencies of intervention? and that is not a dirty word.

Granny

A FATHER AT 13

The father is 13 the mother 15 - children and it appears the parents of these children, who clearly have failed them are expected to help care for this poor little baby. Just looking at them both you can see that they found comfort in each other, where were their parents and what role models are they. I do not advocate a moral panic, I do say let the baby be taken into care, not adopted but fostered allowing the 13 year old / 15 year old to keep important contact.

I would also want these childrens parents charged with neglect, because no clearer evidence than the pregnancy in this situation is necessary. They need to be called to account. While no child is the property of any parent there is however a clear contract of responsibility to care and nurture. These children demonstrate emotional fragility, why would a girl of 15 be interested in such a young looking 13 year old. I suspect she treated him like a toy and that sex was a play game. There may also be issues of informed consent to the act. I also wonder at the emotional maturity of the 15 year old, was she 13 at heart? Who then let this pregnancy carry on? What needs to be reminded is that this baby is not a toy or comforter. This is not a good example to set because there are other children out there who are similar to these two and who would see this away of getting their '15min of fame' and money from a certain newspaper. When you have little or nothing, this might seem a good idea. Who will be around in 6 months time to pick up the pieces of this truely sad little story.


Granny xxx

HUMAN KINDNESS

Like many others I was moved to see the picture of C.F.A firefighter David Tree in Australia sharing his water bottle with a Koala. The dear animal also trusted this human to hold it's burnt paw. Sam as she is named is receiving very good care. If any animal should have been fearful of man then this is it...but trusted this kind and sensitive man.

I know the human cost is terrible, but I wonder what wildlife has been lost, never to reappear again...

When I was a child my uncle brought me a Koala bear toy back from Australia, it was my best toy I learnt the joy of animals from my little friend. "Good on yer mate!"

Granny xx

CHILDREN, DOGS and ICE

A poor little baby Jaden Mac has been killed by two family dogs....the rationality is that babies and young children should never ever be left with any dog even for a moment. It is not the dogs fault....but of course they have been put down. I never leave my dog with my grandchildren indeed 'Merlot' goes to a puppy cage when the children are in our house...for both child and dog's safety. I introduce child and dog under strict supervision so that my dog does not develop jealous behaviour. No dog is safe... they don't have to be attack dogs.


Accidents happen but just when will people teach their children about the dangers and risks linked to ICE. The death of a 6 year old and the dealth of a teenager (bright and intelligent we are told) with 6 others on the roof of a car being used as sledge.... please!!! yes of course kids want to play, take risk, learn lessons but some lessons are learnt at great cost and to late. Of course I feel sorry for the families their loss is great and my heart is with them...but how many more times must these events happen despite the publicity.

Granny xx

AUSTRALIA IN THE NEWS

How can we not weep for Victoria in Australia and her fire ravaged people with so many dead 96 thus far. My husband and I both have family in Australia. The pictures a dire, imagine the heart break. Listening to the firefighters who are tirelessly fighting this monster of heat is a lesson in service. Lives destroyed. It appears that even someone has been deliberately setting the fires once out.

My heart is with them and yes I am praying for them.

Granny xxx

JADE GOODY

How can people be so mean spirited when a young mother is given practically not hope of seeing her children grow up. How can they sleep at night when they are betting on her date of death...shame on them.....imagine if your daughter, mother, sister other female relation was condemned to such terrifying pain. I have never agreed with her Big Brother racist behaviour - but I am a human, I recognise her humanity. Her life has been varied from early poverty and yes wealth from her 'celebrity' but money is not everything..it rarely saves you form illness. She has done what she has to do as a single mother with children and dependent mother.

She has been told her cancer has spread to liver, bowel and groin. Today we have the news she has had a golf ball size tumor from her bowel... please remember how very scared she must be, wonder how you would cope.

I recommend you read an excellent article on Jade in The Independent 6th February 2009 by Deborah Orr....ex editor of NOW magazine who recognises the culpability of all of those of us who have avidly watched the 'reality shows' and how we have built up and have torn down human beings. The people in these shows are reflections of each and every one of us.

For goodness sake - allow some dignity to this poor 'child' who even though she is over thirty is in fact a child who needs positive support in this difficult time.

Don't dance on her grave prematurely....it could be you next time.

Granny x

MUSIC TO LIFT THE SOUL

I really recommend Seal's new Album. Called Seal (Soul) it is brilliant, it is huge and I have loved his music from the begining. If you have any cash to spend for an extra treat yourself. Love Granny

THE NIGHTMARE BEGINS

If we are not careful the biggest financial world disaster ever that we are going through will spiral into massive disorder. The signs are there already, strikes and violence across the world. We have to stand together to get through it. I pray for us all. Love Granny xx

RHYDIAN

I am unashamedly sentimental. I want to offer a review in that vein. If you saw the X factor when Rhydian Roberts was the runner up...I felt then a sense of injustice for him. I have waited for his album to come out. It is outstanding and I feel that he shows wide power of voice and diction. He can do the big sounds and the soft sounds. He sings some of my very favourite songs, I purchased it today and immediately played 'Impossible Dream' which stands high on my list. I believe in the concept of striving for the best you can be, appropriate for today 20th January 2009 - and hope, optimism, duty, sacrifice and service.

LISTEN TO THE ALBUM WITH AN OPEN MIND AND BE LIFTED UP. love Granny xxx

TO DAY IS THE DAY

Barack Obama will become President of America and I pray for him and his family. To Hope. Love Granny xxx

ANNE FRANK

This last week there has been a fantastic BBC drama based on the Diary of Anne Frank. This was a superb production, with fantastic acting. I have always been a 'believer' of this story. So I wonder even more why the Isrealis do not see the behaviour they are replicating is what the Jews went through in the 1930's. I noted one particularly resonant line in this production which says it all really Anne writes "We wait for the allies to rescue us but all we get are bombs" so speaks a child across the decades. Following the last episode there was a playing of the documentary 'Anne Frank Remembered' again a programme worth watching in itself. How do you live in a society where so much is that is about you is banned.

Yes I know that the Hamas have been lobing bombs and that should be challenged and Yes Hamas are using the people as a human sheild. Why can't anybody see that to defeat these types of people you resist yes but show them up for what they are 'dastardly' and show yourselves to be better than them. Ostracise politically mindless thugs, dont kill the innocent. Love Granny

THE COLD WAR

Forgive me from being cynical but with Russia once again turning off the 'Gas' to Ukraine could it be a huge coincidence that those most affected are ex soviet block states? A new 'Cold War' by any other name. I cannot think of a more cynical time, less than subtle, than at this time of year to complain about non payment of bills, when it is at its coldest.

None of the current world situations (other than the financial one) seem to be playing up to the up coming new US president.

I have been having serious debates and arguments with people about the Isreali and Gaza situation. I have always been strongly anti Nazi and so have read extensively about the rise of the Isreali state. I have argued many times that the Jews had a right to a state. In those arguements others always pointed out the terrorist activity of the Jews against Britain in Isreal (ie King David Hotel) and that many of the early political leaders had been terrorists. Indeed they were and I knew this because these were the books I had read. I say now as I say then one man's 'Freedom Fighter' is another mans 'Terrorist'.

If, as appears clear, people knew about these cross border tunnels from Eqypt - why didn't anybody fill them with cement, does not matter howmany times you have to do it, if you have to refill them constantly the enemy has to either re dig or relocate - keeping them engaged and off balance, they will get bored. Then if these rockets are as primative as they are said to be keep coming, why not deploy anti missile sites along that area and take them out before they reach their target! that is self-defence.

There - absolutely - has to be a way for two soverign states to exist in a difficult physical and finanical environment side by side to the benefit of both their peoples. Moderates must stand up against the radicals on both sides. Children are being killed which is unacceptable because the children are the future for both. Those young that will survive are now going to be radicalised - even more dangerous than before given the power of the internet in passing on information. If the Isrealis had been canny they could have long ago won the war against terror by being modern, forward thinking and engaging in new inivative ideas that soften up the enemy a bit like a laxitive you need to effectively expel them and this is done by isolating them from their potential support... To achieve the aims of peaceful statehood both sides have to stop sitting on the past and religious attitudes as justification for their actions - break the cycle by creating a new tradition, that is real selfdefence. I use the term 'Bullies' for both Isreal and Hamas.


Religion in my view is not necessarily a force for peace, the intolerance shown by various religions for others or even within their own institutions often leads (has often led) to conflict. Just look at the Orthadox Christians having a punch up over who does what in the holiest of Christian sites in the Holy Land - really it was handbags at dawn, silly rediculous behaviour from people who should know better. How can suicide bombers ever be held in esteem by religious leaders? Clearly good things have been done but these should never happen just to recruit new converts. Charity should have no religion nor should it be used to say one group is better than another.

I have just been very shocked by a TV programme 'Paul Mertons China' don;t get me wrong great programme. But please tell me that is wrong,as I see here, that families go to China to adopte abandoned female children. Frankly I was shocked that one family had a grown up family and now wanted to 'fill the nest'. Yes, of course there are elements of being able to give a better chance but at what cost. One woman said, she will be my child - an American child - while another women said of course you cannot hide different ethnic backgrounds so it is important that you introduce your child to their birth country. Clearly this separation of approach is not a good thing. Having said that I would have taken every child myself, mostly female given the one child policy and the desire for that one child to be male - what was I saying about bullies? My husband would say that I have entirely emotional responses, well yes indeed. Really adoption tourrism!!!!!

Actually I have never had a child of my own, much as I would have loved to, it was not to be my fate. I believe that it is not my right to demand as a woman that I be allowed to have to have a child, by any means. Children are bought into the world by many who show little thought as to how their child will grow up. Down I beleive to indivduals poor birth control and very often simply not saying NO. I believe that we have to help these children not just by adoption but by reorganising society. I have helped my husband with his three children and I now enjoy being a step grandmother to five. I think there is a role for surrogate grandmothers - being able to offer their love, advice and time. With an ageing population there will be plenty of candidates. Children are our responsibility not our property. They should not be for sale. Love Granny xxxx

DREAMING OF SUMMER

You will have noted that I have posted some pictures of Skopelos taken in 2007, it is to try and send friends and readers a bit of sunshine. They show clearly why we like this Greek Island imagine sitting and having a coffee and letting the world pass you by. I am looking to project some positivity.

In my very cold garden today, there were 7 pigeons, a blackbird, a squirrel all challenging for the food put out. They always lift my spirits. Love Granny xxxx

MORE PHOTOS OF SKOPELOS 2007

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

I am probably going to step on some toes with this post. I am really tired of listening to the Israeli spokespersons who rabbit on about 'self defence' in their current action. The situation is unacceptable in the new world.

I do realise that the rockets into Israel from Gaza are wrong, but two wrongs do not make a right. Air strikes on such a scale over such a long period are totally disportionate and I believe that the 'Blockade of the Gaza' should be lifted. This is a self fulfilling prophecy and creates a cycle, the young people who are living through this bombardment will be radicalised and Hamas will benefit. The alternative is stronger than bombs, currently the Israeli actions are proving Hamas's point written in their charter. The Hamas are saying - see we told you so.

I do believe that Hamas are wrong but I do also think that when Israel remembers the Holocaust as a time when they were targeted, ghettoised, subject to attack because of their religion or perceived influence perhaps they will understand they are doing the same thing. They are doing the job of radicalising the young Arabs better than Hamas, they have put the militants in the Gaza area as the victims and themselves as aggressor in the eyes of some of the world.

History tells us what has happened in the past, it shows us the mistakes, it gives us a key to the future -just why is nobody listening. The children on both sides do not deserve this.

Granny sends her love to all people across the world what ever their religion. xx