MUM AND THE BOYS
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Monday, September 18, 2006
MY LONDON TRIBE.
Following on from the Kylie thing the 'Style' mag took up the ideas of the 'London Tribes, Leading the Pack' How did I fit in? Being born to an East End Lass, in Essex and working on the Isle of Dogs do I fit the 'The Intellectuals' - I'd like to think so, but not totally. Am I 'Indie' - only the jeans bit, am I 'Hedonist', well only the 'Champagne' bit. I am definately not an 'Exhibitionist' contrary to popular belief! Nor am I 'New Wave' or a 'Dubsteppers' so it looks like I am in a tribe of my own the 'Independant Intellectual wanna be tribe' I have always been outside the tribe.
As Mick so rightly points out, all the problems in the world are down to 'tribalism' such as my gangs bigger than your gang, the silly play ground na na na na taunts to a fight over this very issue. Or my religion is better than yours etc etc. Out of which grow the bullies of this world.
Love Granny
As Mick so rightly points out, all the problems in the world are down to 'tribalism' such as my gangs bigger than your gang, the silly play ground na na na na taunts to a fight over this very issue. Or my religion is better than yours etc etc. Out of which grow the bullies of this world.
Love Granny
KYLIE AND BREAST CANCER
Not quite my last word on Sunday as you can see. How does the girl do it? She made the cover of the The Sunday Times 'style' magazine and the Mail on Sunday 'You' magazine and she is completely different in both. More importantly she is showing off her upper body in revealing under wear, arms up and no scars. She must have had a terrific physio since she has both her arms up in most pictures. I speak from experience about this, since getting your arm on the side operated on up and running at full stretch is very important. I have to stretch and exercise every day to keep my mobility. Also the scar takes ages to soften over the damaged soft tissue.
She looks a little thin, but hey she's not that big anyway. I was not wild about the gold and black diamond out fit but the other stuff in the 'Style' mag was interesting and diverse.
However I was overjoyed abouth the 'You' set with the Showgirl look. Hey no scars here either. But best of all she has Shebba, her 'fella' Olivier's Rhodesian Ridgeback. Of whom she says " Sheeba and I are devoted to each other. She was very important during my treatment - there were many long hugs on the sofa during that time". This I understand one it reminds me of Bacchus my Rhodesian Ridgeback who died in 2000 to whom I was devoted. I also understand because Merlot and I do the sofa thing all the time she and I are joined at the hip. Now this is the point, the love of family and friends is vital, but the love of a dog, which is unconditional and unquestionning does not demand an answer when you have non to give and you are tired. Merlot just lies with me as close as she can, lets me stroke her and in the quiet answers all my needs. Merlot is also a small version of Bacchus which is why I loved her instantly the moment I saw her. She combines both his personality and that of my sweet Cindy the Westie, who died two years ago. Not only does Merlot offer comfort, she provides excercise because walking is important even if you feel tired when you have Breast Cancer, she provides the motivation. Ridgebacks it must be said are 'One family dogs' historically they will fight to the death to protect their owners. One Woof from Bacchus was enough to send any would be burglar running when he meant it he really meant it. Merlot has a language all her own!
HAIR
On another note I love Kylies hair, very chic. Mine to my surprise has not yet started to fall out this cycle. I was sure it would all be gone by now but No, it is hanging on in there and even I do believe staging a fight back. I must admit poor Phil got a shock when he saw me yesterday, it was in his face, bless him. I really wish tha my hair would grow back curly and blond like Kylie's.
Kylie, please throw a few designer clothes my way!!!!!!!!!!!
She is very lucky to have such a devoted boyfriend, and I am lucky to have Mick.
Love Granny.
She looks a little thin, but hey she's not that big anyway. I was not wild about the gold and black diamond out fit but the other stuff in the 'Style' mag was interesting and diverse.
However I was overjoyed abouth the 'You' set with the Showgirl look. Hey no scars here either. But best of all she has Shebba, her 'fella' Olivier's Rhodesian Ridgeback. Of whom she says " Sheeba and I are devoted to each other. She was very important during my treatment - there were many long hugs on the sofa during that time". This I understand one it reminds me of Bacchus my Rhodesian Ridgeback who died in 2000 to whom I was devoted. I also understand because Merlot and I do the sofa thing all the time she and I are joined at the hip. Now this is the point, the love of family and friends is vital, but the love of a dog, which is unconditional and unquestionning does not demand an answer when you have non to give and you are tired. Merlot just lies with me as close as she can, lets me stroke her and in the quiet answers all my needs. Merlot is also a small version of Bacchus which is why I loved her instantly the moment I saw her. She combines both his personality and that of my sweet Cindy the Westie, who died two years ago. Not only does Merlot offer comfort, she provides excercise because walking is important even if you feel tired when you have Breast Cancer, she provides the motivation. Ridgebacks it must be said are 'One family dogs' historically they will fight to the death to protect their owners. One Woof from Bacchus was enough to send any would be burglar running when he meant it he really meant it. Merlot has a language all her own!
HAIR
On another note I love Kylies hair, very chic. Mine to my surprise has not yet started to fall out this cycle. I was sure it would all be gone by now but No, it is hanging on in there and even I do believe staging a fight back. I must admit poor Phil got a shock when he saw me yesterday, it was in his face, bless him. I really wish tha my hair would grow back curly and blond like Kylie's.
Kylie, please throw a few designer clothes my way!!!!!!!!!!!
She is very lucky to have such a devoted boyfriend, and I am lucky to have Mick.
Love Granny.
WHY I LOVE SUNDAYS
Sunday has always been my favourite day of the week. I do me stuff, but this Sunday ws even better - My cuddly teddy bear (youngest stepson) Phil and his girlfriend Vicki came to see me. Vicki had made really super Strawberry sponge cake (with real strasberries) which so delicious. What a nice thing to do! Phil was his smiley self and their company was as always a joy. They really are the perfect couple, so in tune and obviously in love. Jon was there to (he is middle stepson) and later Laura his girlfriend came too.
Poor Laura is getting over the tragic death of her mother last week, following an short intense battle with non hodgkinson lymphoma. She is coping and all of us hope she doesn't try to hard to be strong at the funeral this week. It is ok to cry she will really need that release. Both she and her father were with mum at the end which was important. I never had the chance to meet Laura's mum because either she or I was in hospital. I told Laura that I believe strongly that her mum was now at peace and not in any more pain and that she should take some comfort from that.
Because we were altogether in the garden on a sunny Sunday I hope that Laura took some comfort from that. Laura had also been very kind to me early on in my chemo when she made a really lovely cheese cake, she also cooked a lasagne when she thought I might not feel like cooking. These gestures by both girls means more to me than anything, they both have kind and generous hearts, and put something of themselves into each dish.
What better finish to a perfect day could I have had - As Time Goes By, Last of the Summer Wine, Songs of Praise and Antiques Road Show on the Telly. The last three porgammes of the Road Show have looked back at past progs and the discoveries but this time with a look at what happened after. this week was stunning with a wonderful cigarette case by Bucheron of Paris and a stunning portrait from the 1920's of Jessie Clover and the story of her life after the painting when she was 14. That is the beauty of history, each artifact has a story to tell, which for me is beyond price.
My last word on the story of Sunday, TO THINE BE THE GLORY, risen, conquering son, endless is the victory thou o'er death hast won.
Love Granny
Poor Laura is getting over the tragic death of her mother last week, following an short intense battle with non hodgkinson lymphoma. She is coping and all of us hope she doesn't try to hard to be strong at the funeral this week. It is ok to cry she will really need that release. Both she and her father were with mum at the end which was important. I never had the chance to meet Laura's mum because either she or I was in hospital. I told Laura that I believe strongly that her mum was now at peace and not in any more pain and that she should take some comfort from that.
Because we were altogether in the garden on a sunny Sunday I hope that Laura took some comfort from that. Laura had also been very kind to me early on in my chemo when she made a really lovely cheese cake, she also cooked a lasagne when she thought I might not feel like cooking. These gestures by both girls means more to me than anything, they both have kind and generous hearts, and put something of themselves into each dish.
What better finish to a perfect day could I have had - As Time Goes By, Last of the Summer Wine, Songs of Praise and Antiques Road Show on the Telly. The last three porgammes of the Road Show have looked back at past progs and the discoveries but this time with a look at what happened after. this week was stunning with a wonderful cigarette case by Bucheron of Paris and a stunning portrait from the 1920's of Jessie Clover and the story of her life after the painting when she was 14. That is the beauty of history, each artifact has a story to tell, which for me is beyond price.
My last word on the story of Sunday, TO THINE BE THE GLORY, risen, conquering son, endless is the victory thou o'er death hast won.
Love Granny
Sunday, September 17, 2006
INFECTION WATCH!
My cold has remined my priority this weekend. Feeling pretty Naff. Still the precautionary antibiotics are holding chest infection at bay. Very important for newly diagnosed women, remember you immunity goes way down. Keep yourself infection free.
Saw Kylie strutting her stuff in London last night, bravo girl.
Love to all Granny. xx
Saw Kylie strutting her stuff in London last night, bravo girl.
Love to all Granny. xx
Saturday, September 16, 2006
THE BABY HOUSE
In 2000 I read an article in The Sunday Times (23/04/2000), it was about abandoned babies in Russia and one in particular called Kolya, who I fell in love with. He was 9 months old and having been born two and half months premature he was considered unadoptable because of his lack of development. He lived in Cot number 9. His picture broke my heart, he was lying on his front with his head up and looking directly at the camera, and directly into my heart.
Foreigners were not being allowed to adopt him, as a matter of government policy. I have kept that picture to remind myself that every child is worth something. Today I looked up the name of the home on the internet, people are now working there - look it up on 'Maria's Babies Our Baby House Project' and read for yourself about the life these babies lead! Life? now that is a contradiction in terms when it comes to these children. They live a regimented and loveless existence. The staff don't like the children crying following the visits by this group. Kolya cost 50p a day to keep????
I am torn, between understanding that each country in the world has this problem, children in the UK languish in orphanages without individual care and love - torn because I would love to help, I would love a child and that is unrealistic. I was, I believe, never meant to have a child of my own and it would be too idealistic to imagine that I could sweep in and save 1 child. Playing lady bountiful would be a huge ego trip. Still I just cannot help wondering if Kolya would have responded to me.
I am never quite sure if the items donated like clothes and nappies or money actually are received by these children.
Take a look at the list of children's homes in Russia, the sheer scale is beyond belief, of course a lot is to do with illigitimacey, illness such as HIV and or as Yulia had syphilis caught from her mother. There is also the poverty, drugs and alcohol abuse. It is easier to dump a child than to try. It all comes down to economics, yet without help these children will become a problem since they are not socialised, not educated and do not understand love.
When I think about this world wide problem, I get angry that some people want to design their own babies or fight tooth and nail to have a baby of their own just because they think it is their right when there are children out there desperate for parental love, who lie in numbered cots, for hour upon hour who are never picked up or cuddled.
At the end of the day like others I did nothing, and I should have done something.
With love to the worlds unwanted children. Granny
Foreigners were not being allowed to adopt him, as a matter of government policy. I have kept that picture to remind myself that every child is worth something. Today I looked up the name of the home on the internet, people are now working there - look it up on 'Maria's Babies Our Baby House Project' and read for yourself about the life these babies lead! Life? now that is a contradiction in terms when it comes to these children. They live a regimented and loveless existence. The staff don't like the children crying following the visits by this group. Kolya cost 50p a day to keep????
I am torn, between understanding that each country in the world has this problem, children in the UK languish in orphanages without individual care and love - torn because I would love to help, I would love a child and that is unrealistic. I was, I believe, never meant to have a child of my own and it would be too idealistic to imagine that I could sweep in and save 1 child. Playing lady bountiful would be a huge ego trip. Still I just cannot help wondering if Kolya would have responded to me.
I am never quite sure if the items donated like clothes and nappies or money actually are received by these children.
Take a look at the list of children's homes in Russia, the sheer scale is beyond belief, of course a lot is to do with illigitimacey, illness such as HIV and or as Yulia had syphilis caught from her mother. There is also the poverty, drugs and alcohol abuse. It is easier to dump a child than to try. It all comes down to economics, yet without help these children will become a problem since they are not socialised, not educated and do not understand love.
When I think about this world wide problem, I get angry that some people want to design their own babies or fight tooth and nail to have a baby of their own just because they think it is their right when there are children out there desperate for parental love, who lie in numbered cots, for hour upon hour who are never picked up or cuddled.
At the end of the day like others I did nothing, and I should have done something.
With love to the worlds unwanted children. Granny
Friday, September 15, 2006
THE BIG DEAL HUNTER
I have been reviewing the situation (a cue for a song!!!) in fashion terms that is.
Delighted that super wiafs are not treading the cat walk in Madrid. Not a good image for young girls to adopt. It is a question of balance, to be too big can put pressure on the heart and joints. Too slim and your body forgets who it is, lose periods and other body functions. I am not a Kate Moss fan, she is so stupid, money and success does not happiness make even if it can appear to buy justice. Drugs are a no no and such a bad role model for the young who think it's cool.
I love the black pencil skirt from H and M at £14.99 not a bad deal.
In Happy this month was a two page feature on the Buys for Breast Cancer Awareness Month I myself have the new ribbon brooche and a key ring. What I love best in the feature is the Wellies from ASDA £12 with 15% to BC pink with ribblons - brill.
I also like the bath ducks in pink at £4.99
Who's Look? well I am a Sophie Ellis-Bexter fan ( the face of Monsoon)but I also like Dita Von Teese. She is a Burlesque artist and looks just fab in her 1940's make up - just wish I could do the eyeliner. I like refined elegance with minimal chic and monochrome look. The shirt dress is cool however you are wearing it.
I still have my black shirt dress, which this year I will wear with leggings and flat shoes/pumps
Watch out for peep toe shoes - I love them but can, if not fitted properly, hurt the big toe - big time.
A recent visit to Next ( I rarely go there - too expensive) pleasantly surprised, some really good skirt and jacket combo's (could be suits) not to expensive. Accessorised correctly will make the perfect business impression. Good first impressions seal the deal.
The skirt for me was a brown tone tarten, long length (ankle) pencilish, with a tuck up at the top a la Vivienne Westwood or Marc Jacobs. This was stunning, and very fine fabric, so not bulky. Also has a belt. Mix with great blouses and a brown jacket - varied for different occasions.
Noticed in Peacocks today that shirt I have mentioned before with the wrap/tie front mid sleeve with cuff and in black and red - now in a soft brown, a great green with self green stripe and a purple version as well. All four with a matching/toning thin sleeveless t shirt would be my staple for work. The store has some really great shirts. I also like the v neck shirt that has a kind of empire line and no buttons (a pull on) in white, oat, black, red equally useful for work, no need to worry about buttons popping open. Boobs on display is not a good business look and leads to stereotyping, sexy yes it's ok but not tarty. A good fitting pretty bra makes all the difference, even for me who hates bras. When I am putting on a presentation or teaching I am careful about my look with special consideration to my audience and the impression I want to make. I am most definately not one of the boys. I always want to make sure that every one knows I am a woman, but I am professional.
One of my key tips is that beach wear does not fit the urban scene - dead Naff with capital N.
AUTUMN 2006
Been here before! I keep a style book of my own where I keep ideas and clippings that I like, have done this for years. Included with my collection was the Daily Mail Lifestyle Magazine for Autumn 2005 and nothing seems really to have changed. The shoes are wedges and platforms, the Military coat, the denim, the heavy knits, ankle boots and big bags and clutches etc etc. Fashion editors should remeber people like me keep records.
My big find was on one of my trips to the charity shop. Found a hand knitted long line navy jacket (very heavy cable) with the new cross over and shoulder button design that is in many of the style books. the price £3.95 brand new. Perfect for over jeans with that layered look that is so big this year (always A FAV of mine - layers are fab) will look fab with white shirt and blue platforms. I am a fan of wraps to change the emphasis of an outfit.
Don't over look Bon Marche (not trendy I know) - the one in Dartford has had a face lift and a change of stock. Still aimed at the over 50 market and with the staples. However they have up graded and was pleased to see some really trend led designs. Nice for the older woman who need that special cut and fitting but likes style as well. Shops really need to understand the changing older market, people like me who love fashion but who are over 50. Designers need to remember size and cut for the older figure.
Check out Matalan for home furnishings at affordable prices, love their bucket chairs. They are bringing out a tarten dress which I will look at.
My leopard print shoes are coming back out of the closet, so nice I am still in fashion!
I have created a great party look in blue, but will keep it under wraps for now, I want to make an entrance at Christmas!!!!!! to go with my bald look.
love Granny. XX
Delighted that super wiafs are not treading the cat walk in Madrid. Not a good image for young girls to adopt. It is a question of balance, to be too big can put pressure on the heart and joints. Too slim and your body forgets who it is, lose periods and other body functions. I am not a Kate Moss fan, she is so stupid, money and success does not happiness make even if it can appear to buy justice. Drugs are a no no and such a bad role model for the young who think it's cool.
I love the black pencil skirt from H and M at £14.99 not a bad deal.
In Happy this month was a two page feature on the Buys for Breast Cancer Awareness Month I myself have the new ribbon brooche and a key ring. What I love best in the feature is the Wellies from ASDA £12 with 15% to BC pink with ribblons - brill.
I also like the bath ducks in pink at £4.99
Who's Look? well I am a Sophie Ellis-Bexter fan ( the face of Monsoon)but I also like Dita Von Teese. She is a Burlesque artist and looks just fab in her 1940's make up - just wish I could do the eyeliner. I like refined elegance with minimal chic and monochrome look. The shirt dress is cool however you are wearing it.
I still have my black shirt dress, which this year I will wear with leggings and flat shoes/pumps
Watch out for peep toe shoes - I love them but can, if not fitted properly, hurt the big toe - big time.
A recent visit to Next ( I rarely go there - too expensive) pleasantly surprised, some really good skirt and jacket combo's (could be suits) not to expensive. Accessorised correctly will make the perfect business impression. Good first impressions seal the deal.
The skirt for me was a brown tone tarten, long length (ankle) pencilish, with a tuck up at the top a la Vivienne Westwood or Marc Jacobs. This was stunning, and very fine fabric, so not bulky. Also has a belt. Mix with great blouses and a brown jacket - varied for different occasions.
Noticed in Peacocks today that shirt I have mentioned before with the wrap/tie front mid sleeve with cuff and in black and red - now in a soft brown, a great green with self green stripe and a purple version as well. All four with a matching/toning thin sleeveless t shirt would be my staple for work. The store has some really great shirts. I also like the v neck shirt that has a kind of empire line and no buttons (a pull on) in white, oat, black, red equally useful for work, no need to worry about buttons popping open. Boobs on display is not a good business look and leads to stereotyping, sexy yes it's ok but not tarty. A good fitting pretty bra makes all the difference, even for me who hates bras. When I am putting on a presentation or teaching I am careful about my look with special consideration to my audience and the impression I want to make. I am most definately not one of the boys. I always want to make sure that every one knows I am a woman, but I am professional.
One of my key tips is that beach wear does not fit the urban scene - dead Naff with capital N.
AUTUMN 2006
Been here before! I keep a style book of my own where I keep ideas and clippings that I like, have done this for years. Included with my collection was the Daily Mail Lifestyle Magazine for Autumn 2005 and nothing seems really to have changed. The shoes are wedges and platforms, the Military coat, the denim, the heavy knits, ankle boots and big bags and clutches etc etc. Fashion editors should remeber people like me keep records.
My big find was on one of my trips to the charity shop. Found a hand knitted long line navy jacket (very heavy cable) with the new cross over and shoulder button design that is in many of the style books. the price £3.95 brand new. Perfect for over jeans with that layered look that is so big this year (always A FAV of mine - layers are fab) will look fab with white shirt and blue platforms. I am a fan of wraps to change the emphasis of an outfit.
Don't over look Bon Marche (not trendy I know) - the one in Dartford has had a face lift and a change of stock. Still aimed at the over 50 market and with the staples. However they have up graded and was pleased to see some really trend led designs. Nice for the older woman who need that special cut and fitting but likes style as well. Shops really need to understand the changing older market, people like me who love fashion but who are over 50. Designers need to remember size and cut for the older figure.
Check out Matalan for home furnishings at affordable prices, love their bucket chairs. They are bringing out a tarten dress which I will look at.
My leopard print shoes are coming back out of the closet, so nice I am still in fashion!
I have created a great party look in blue, but will keep it under wraps for now, I want to make an entrance at Christmas!!!!!! to go with my bald look.
love Granny. XX
Thursday, September 14, 2006
MARIANNE FAITHFULL
I am so sorry to hear Marianne has been diagnosed with early stage Breast Cancer. I love her music and she is one of my style icons. I wish her lots of love. Granny
IT'S A LONG JOURNEY
Went to the hospital today to see my oncologist. I was told my Radio Therapy will be monday to friday for 5 weeks, followed by one week of a super dose. By which time I will be glowing in the dark (joke). All targetting my scar and my upper shoulder.
This will take place 3 weeks after my last chemo on 1st November 2006. I hope to be back at work part time at that stage.
I will have three little permanant tatoos to mark the location of the treatment. I shall have a super duper scan that will look at every detail of that part of my body.
My bloods were OK, but I do have a bit of a cold so it's back on the antibiotics. Any chest infection (which I am prone to) could see me in hospital and I don't want that. The staff at Queen Marys Sidcup are really very nice. I really can not speak more highly of the NHS.
Love Granny.
This will take place 3 weeks after my last chemo on 1st November 2006. I hope to be back at work part time at that stage.
I will have three little permanant tatoos to mark the location of the treatment. I shall have a super duper scan that will look at every detail of that part of my body.
My bloods were OK, but I do have a bit of a cold so it's back on the antibiotics. Any chest infection (which I am prone to) could see me in hospital and I don't want that. The staff at Queen Marys Sidcup are really very nice. I really can not speak more highly of the NHS.
Love Granny.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
DMITRI HVOROSTOVSKY
Saturday was the last night of the proms, and I loved it, especially as Maureen Lipman put it so succinctly. Dmitri Hvorostovsky was 'Drop Dead Gorgeous'. Who the hell needs Brad Bitt et al when this guy looks the part and can sing. He would make a believable hero or villan, he has a wicked twinkle. I was not so ill that he did not rock my socks.
Another opera singer who I rate is Jose Cura, another gezzer with looks to boot. Love Granny.
PS I am an Alan Rickman fan as well.
Another opera singer who I rate is Jose Cura, another gezzer with looks to boot. Love Granny.
PS I am an Alan Rickman fan as well.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A TREE
Last night we had a very heavy storm, thunder - the whole 5 yards- the rain was particularly heavy. This morning when I looked at my pine/fir tree the cones that had been there had all gone. There was a spectacular amount of 'fluttering' of tiny wings in the branches, closer examination revealed dozens of blue tits, I can only assume that a lot of insects had come to the surface of branches. In addition my neighbour had put out a fresh peanut holder full on his tree and sure enough there were these charming little birds rushing between feeder and branch. Quite lovely. Granny
Friday, September 08, 2006
MOONLIGHT SERANADE
Hit that Glen Miller track (well I told you I was old, and I love his music)
Just a quicky.
For the last two nights I have fallen asleep in the light from a full moon shining into my bedroom window. And what a light, so clear to clean so sharp so soft. The perfect shape of a moon is forever changing, I have seen huge moons in bright orange, I have laid on beaches in Greece and watched the moon and stars I am never failed to be inspired by 'Her' glory.
I hope that the families of the victims of 9/11 Twin Towers are able to rest on this 5th anniversary in the light of a moon where ever they may be. My hero is Jay Janus captain of Rig 6 who was trapped in the towers and saved by being in stair well 'B' because he and his crew stopped to help Josephine Miller. To survive this attack, is beyond words. Perhaps the perfect Glen Miller piece for him is 'American Patrol' an all time favourite of mine.
I send my love to the lost, their families and the surviors. Granny
Just a quicky.
For the last two nights I have fallen asleep in the light from a full moon shining into my bedroom window. And what a light, so clear to clean so sharp so soft. The perfect shape of a moon is forever changing, I have seen huge moons in bright orange, I have laid on beaches in Greece and watched the moon and stars I am never failed to be inspired by 'Her' glory.
I hope that the families of the victims of 9/11 Twin Towers are able to rest on this 5th anniversary in the light of a moon where ever they may be. My hero is Jay Janus captain of Rig 6 who was trapped in the towers and saved by being in stair well 'B' because he and his crew stopped to help Josephine Miller. To survive this attack, is beyond words. Perhaps the perfect Glen Miller piece for him is 'American Patrol' an all time favourite of mine.
I send my love to the lost, their families and the surviors. Granny
GONE A ROMIN
Got you thinking, what is the girl on about? Well aromatherapy, thats what. I had my first session yesterday at the Macmillan Centre in Queen Marys Sidcup. Now let me tell you that have a wonderful garden to sit in, with shade and trees and flowers. I noticed a climbing flower with a huge bell shape in the prettiest shade of light blue, so delicate and it just lit up my day. it is a wonderful place to sit and read which I did prior to my treatment. Susie was the therapist and very nice. The experience was amazing, my mixture was bergermont and lavender (my favourite - I use these at home) and the hand massage was so relaxing but the effect afterwards was one of rejuvenated joints etc. The two arms were however complete different in feel. My right was - relaxing my left was warm bordering on hot and freed my arm up perfectly. I had intended for the experience to allow me to forget for a hour that I had breast cancer and to concentrate on me rather than 'it' if you see what I mean. The process was accomapnied by soft musical, sea and sea bird sounds.Again I love this, I am a sucker for the sea, which I why I can not wait to get back to Ventnor to walk along the front and hear the sea.
Was it worth it, oh yes.
PS those dragon flies have been back - it is like watching Spitfire aces catching the late evening flies who dare to be about.
Was it worth it, oh yes.
PS those dragon flies have been back - it is like watching Spitfire aces catching the late evening flies who dare to be about.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
SUPPORT PENNY DEACON
My mother lives in the Southampton area and read in the Daily Echo about Penny Deacon. She like me is a police officer. She had her operation in July to remove her breast cancer lump. On the 16th September 2006 she in company with 15 colleagues is going to undertake a 60 mile challenge (by cycle) to raise money for the Chemo unit at St Anne's Hosptial Newport. Anyone who knows me knows that the Isle of Wight is my dream home/place to visit (Ventnor) so please try and help my colleague reach her target. This can be done by visiting www.justgiving.com/pennydeacon There are a number of entries on the web, ie interviews with Penny etc.
I am so not a bike rider, I would like to get a fashion show - all full on glamour, in aid of Breast Cancer research - with me modeling of course and any other 'surviour' who wants to hit the catwalk. Lots of Bling, lots of confidence, lots of power and perhaps even a record in the charts!!!!!!
I note that Penny's Chief Superintendent is female, and I will be asking her has I will other senior women across the country to join me in making sure that the women employed in the police family are made fully aware of the issues and debates and need to check ourselves. As a member of the Commissioner's Women's Focus group I do have access to key officials and coleagues. This could be such a postive thing, because if you think about in terms of research there is no better fixed cross section of women anywhere. As an Historian of women in the service, I have an idea from looking at Metropolitan Police Women Service records how many women across the years have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Of course it is not just women who get Breast Cancer men can to. What a great opportunity to increase the knowledge of the disease lets have health pages with links across the Constabulary web pages.
SUPPORT PENNY PLEASE. THANK YOU. Love Granny
I am so not a bike rider, I would like to get a fashion show - all full on glamour, in aid of Breast Cancer research - with me modeling of course and any other 'surviour' who wants to hit the catwalk. Lots of Bling, lots of confidence, lots of power and perhaps even a record in the charts!!!!!!
I note that Penny's Chief Superintendent is female, and I will be asking her has I will other senior women across the country to join me in making sure that the women employed in the police family are made fully aware of the issues and debates and need to check ourselves. As a member of the Commissioner's Women's Focus group I do have access to key officials and coleagues. This could be such a postive thing, because if you think about in terms of research there is no better fixed cross section of women anywhere. As an Historian of women in the service, I have an idea from looking at Metropolitan Police Women Service records how many women across the years have been diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Of course it is not just women who get Breast Cancer men can to. What a great opportunity to increase the knowledge of the disease lets have health pages with links across the Constabulary web pages.
SUPPORT PENNY PLEASE. THANK YOU. Love Granny
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
A FASHION THING
The October Glamour Mag is out with a very good article on Breast Cancer victims who are under 50 - get reading.
Fashion is very much my thing as you know. Well this seasons Leggings with dresses or jumpers is devine. Thick tights, mentioned by me before, but essential. Comfortable elegent and warm, with a hint of sex underneath. Yes.
Granny loves yer.
Fashion is very much my thing as you know. Well this seasons Leggings with dresses or jumpers is devine. Thick tights, mentioned by me before, but essential. Comfortable elegent and warm, with a hint of sex underneath. Yes.
Granny loves yer.
MICK THE FARMER
It's Wednesday and a week since the last chemo, I feel much better today.
Mick started his new job yesterday at the organic farm shop. His family were Sussex farmers and had pigs. Some of the property is still in the family. He wants to get back to his roots, and away from the dry drone of his thrity plus year career. It is a challenge, he said that working a till his harder than it looks, but he has lots of ladies to help him, he will be in his element. Better is the challenge to the mind and body, being outside and close to the growing of things rather than the 'shop' culture that we have. We will benefit as well from getting nice fresh meat and veg. He will be able to cycle to work so he could also get really fit.
Today, and I am really trying not to make this a - diary blog, I visted Erith Deep Water Wharf, wlaking out along the really nice pier, with plenty of space, seats and it was clean. There were people sitting, eating, fishing and walking. Mums with their children and people having lunch away from their desk. Why can't Erith shake off it's end of the road feel? The sun was lovely and the water interesting in it's subtle changes of current and ripples caused by the wind. It is rather more industrial in aspect that perhaps the classic upper Thames, however this is the place to watch the life on the river move up and down.. I wonder why no one has thought of building a Yacht Marina here, to bring new people here. It could open the water front to cafes and shops.
There is a lot of new housing here, I particularly like one of the retirement developments, for me it would be an ideal spot with my balcony over the river and sitting in the evening with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigo watching the water and sea birds. I know that the borough is trying to rejenerate the area, but they lack purpose and direction, you need housing - of course, but also a river front area that is attractive with things to do. I have noted that the Running Horses, the Cross Keys and the White Hart very close to this area have made an effort to smarten up. What is needed is good food, good wine and good music. The White Hart has been very very clever and had a wonderful Thames Barge mural painted on its wall, I like this - perhaps they could make more of their lovely garden area down to the river. The older population that lives quite close could be a good customer source if they got away from the spit and sawdust type drinkers, the rowdy noisy and boring drinkers who inhabit Erith. The borough wants to bin the Running Horses, that used to have a carvery.
The areas biggest mistake was it's redevelopment of the shopping area, it went for two story concrete, please please why did you not look at the lay of the area, make it like it was in decades past with small shops. We have a Matalan, a Peacocks and one Select shop there is also a Wilkinsons, a Woolworths and a betting shop/ No imagination. Mostly what you see is dreary security guards who keep out the yob element. Yes perhaps employment is important but on the face of it these shops find it hard to hier staff. The Morrison's restaruant, does a roaring trade, most days breakfast and lunch. People come here for Sunday Lunch - you know a proper roast! Now if people are entised there to eat then why not to other proper food venues. Please no more Macdonalds or Burger King ( we have them as well) That is all there is in the evening. The borough even kicked out the market, which I liked to shop in. So why not a Farmers Market on Sundays?
Erith might seem like the end of the world but it has has railway station, which means people other than car drivers or locals could get here if there was something more than Morrisons. For god sake you built a huge road here, now do something with the town.There is a museum that is so much in need of reinvention that it is practically criminal to leave it. There is a lot of history in this area - what we need here is a historical mastermind. We even have a theater, yes a real live place for plays, THE ERITH PLAYHOUSE (it has a web site which mentions the lack of restaurants) £6 a ticket!!!!!!!. Surely this means something more than bland benality and medocre ideas could flourish here. VITALITY AND LIFE come on ERITH.
We need some dynamism with a heart here not stuffy political quick fixes.
Love Granny
Mick started his new job yesterday at the organic farm shop. His family were Sussex farmers and had pigs. Some of the property is still in the family. He wants to get back to his roots, and away from the dry drone of his thrity plus year career. It is a challenge, he said that working a till his harder than it looks, but he has lots of ladies to help him, he will be in his element. Better is the challenge to the mind and body, being outside and close to the growing of things rather than the 'shop' culture that we have. We will benefit as well from getting nice fresh meat and veg. He will be able to cycle to work so he could also get really fit.
Today, and I am really trying not to make this a - diary blog, I visted Erith Deep Water Wharf, wlaking out along the really nice pier, with plenty of space, seats and it was clean. There were people sitting, eating, fishing and walking. Mums with their children and people having lunch away from their desk. Why can't Erith shake off it's end of the road feel? The sun was lovely and the water interesting in it's subtle changes of current and ripples caused by the wind. It is rather more industrial in aspect that perhaps the classic upper Thames, however this is the place to watch the life on the river move up and down.. I wonder why no one has thought of building a Yacht Marina here, to bring new people here. It could open the water front to cafes and shops.
There is a lot of new housing here, I particularly like one of the retirement developments, for me it would be an ideal spot with my balcony over the river and sitting in the evening with a glass of chilled Pinot Grigo watching the water and sea birds. I know that the borough is trying to rejenerate the area, but they lack purpose and direction, you need housing - of course, but also a river front area that is attractive with things to do. I have noted that the Running Horses, the Cross Keys and the White Hart very close to this area have made an effort to smarten up. What is needed is good food, good wine and good music. The White Hart has been very very clever and had a wonderful Thames Barge mural painted on its wall, I like this - perhaps they could make more of their lovely garden area down to the river. The older population that lives quite close could be a good customer source if they got away from the spit and sawdust type drinkers, the rowdy noisy and boring drinkers who inhabit Erith. The borough wants to bin the Running Horses, that used to have a carvery.
The areas biggest mistake was it's redevelopment of the shopping area, it went for two story concrete, please please why did you not look at the lay of the area, make it like it was in decades past with small shops. We have a Matalan, a Peacocks and one Select shop there is also a Wilkinsons, a Woolworths and a betting shop/ No imagination. Mostly what you see is dreary security guards who keep out the yob element. Yes perhaps employment is important but on the face of it these shops find it hard to hier staff. The Morrison's restaruant, does a roaring trade, most days breakfast and lunch. People come here for Sunday Lunch - you know a proper roast! Now if people are entised there to eat then why not to other proper food venues. Please no more Macdonalds or Burger King ( we have them as well) That is all there is in the evening. The borough even kicked out the market, which I liked to shop in. So why not a Farmers Market on Sundays?
Erith might seem like the end of the world but it has has railway station, which means people other than car drivers or locals could get here if there was something more than Morrisons. For god sake you built a huge road here, now do something with the town.There is a museum that is so much in need of reinvention that it is practically criminal to leave it. There is a lot of history in this area - what we need here is a historical mastermind. We even have a theater, yes a real live place for plays, THE ERITH PLAYHOUSE (it has a web site which mentions the lack of restaurants) £6 a ticket!!!!!!!. Surely this means something more than bland benality and medocre ideas could flourish here. VITALITY AND LIFE come on ERITH.
We need some dynamism with a heart here not stuffy political quick fixes.
Love Granny
Monday, September 04, 2006
STILL FEELING TIRED
Yes, I must report that I remain a little off kilter, more than a little tired and slow. I wish I could whizz about like normal. I hope to try and make an excersion tomorrow but we will see.
I have become a daytime TV viewer, well mostly cable not regular TV. This really annoys Mick, since I like all the 'tec' and 'cop' shows. I have been reading some good books, mostly about history, and it really makes me wonder why 'historians' are so ghettoised behind their theories.
Some sad news about Steve Irwin, death by Stingray sounds like a plot and not reality! still Aussie land is very shocked and so are his family and fans.
My heart goes out to the RAF families in Kinloss, so many good and professional men, lost to their families and friends. I pray for them all. Also I pray for the soldier and marine, what is this silly world coming to. DRUGS, RELIGION AND POWER (THREE THINGS, SAME DEAL) The three kings of destruction absolutely linked by money.
Anyway love and peace, granny.
I have become a daytime TV viewer, well mostly cable not regular TV. This really annoys Mick, since I like all the 'tec' and 'cop' shows. I have been reading some good books, mostly about history, and it really makes me wonder why 'historians' are so ghettoised behind their theories.
Some sad news about Steve Irwin, death by Stingray sounds like a plot and not reality! still Aussie land is very shocked and so are his family and fans.
My heart goes out to the RAF families in Kinloss, so many good and professional men, lost to their families and friends. I pray for them all. Also I pray for the soldier and marine, what is this silly world coming to. DRUGS, RELIGION AND POWER (THREE THINGS, SAME DEAL) The three kings of destruction absolutely linked by money.
Anyway love and peace, granny.
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