|
|
What have you bought me for Christmas dear?
|
|
|
Cop out or what David? We've already been down the
dress shop route, unfortunately that won't fully suffice, I had thought
of an effects pedal for her electric guitar, opps! sorry my electric
guitar, mind's wandering again. I suppose it'll be down to spending my
one day a week of peace, tomorrow, dragging myself from emporium to
emporium on a stress inducing quest to find some little, (expensive),
trifle for madam's amusement, please guys don't suggest anything
remotely electronic, clockwork possibly, or even better string powered.
Then there's the card, one always has to buy a special card doesn't one,
can't be anything run of the mill or you get accused of not trying,
well not so much accused as the frosty "Very nice", tone suggesting that
what she really means is "Don't know why you bothered". Actually my
Mrs. is very easy to buy presents for I just like to get something
she will really appreciate.
Been a lovely day here today, sun's been shining, bit chilly but
then it is near Christmas, my boss had to interview some guys for a new
post today, one of them was named Jesus, I told him to ask the guy if
he'd be needing Easter off.
Stu
Dec. 17, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hi guys.
All very well, Stu, but what a way to spend Easter, if you happen to be called Jesus.
You're right David has got it pretty well sewn up. Know what he
means about buying for the boys though, I have just ordered a set of 19
machine collets, boxed, for Alex, normal price £135 reduced to £59,
special offer, easy peasey, delivery next Monday. Lovely old job. Now,
why can't it be that easy to buy for a woman?
Sorry to hear about the terrible weather Chris, sun's been out here today, but very cold. I expect our turn will come though!
Shame about the disasterous shopping trip, the kind of scenario we
all have nightmares about. Your damage limitation exercise seems to have
swung into operation like a well oiled machine though. Better luck next
time and best wishes to Parrotty.
On the subject of cats, when we first moved to Stroud we had a
tortoiseshell cat called Cricket. (Don't ask why). The first
Christmas we had a natural tree which we put in a bucket full of earth
'cos it had roots, and decorated it. That night some friends came to
visit and we settled in the lounge, where the tree was, with drinks. As
we were talking the cat saunters in, strolled up to the tree and
proceeds to crap in the bucket. Embarassing or what? Fortunately our
friends thought it was hilarious, but I'm not sure if they were laughing
at the cat or the look of complete horror on our faces. Since then we
have always had artificial trees!
Got to do more pressie hunting now guys.
Have fun.
Sticky.
Dec. 17, 2009
|
|
|
|
Sun's shining brightly down in deepest Dorset,
John. Not a cloud in sight and not a trace of snow ... yet. We were
expecting it but someone has obviously turned off the tap at the Dorset
border. Very cold though. Ken tells me it's forty degree is Adelaide.
Talk about extremes!
Dec. 18, 2009
|
|
|
|
Luvly day yer in North Devon as well David, bit
parky but tis seasonal, eh? don't somehow seem right to be baking hot
and spending Christmas on the beach, although at 40 degrees I think I'd
be spending it in the fridge.
I'm assuming that Chris is somewhere under a mountain of snow at
the moment, at least he'll be able to go out and build a snowman,
parrotty can watch him from a window and offer suitable encouragement,
and it'll take his mind off shopping, mind you I think the ploy of
losing one's credit card is the best one I've heard yet for avoiding
buying any Christmas presents, well thought out mate.
Stu
Dec. 18, 2009
|
|
|
|
NEWS FROM THE WEATHER FRONT
Thanks for all your
concerns. It is officially HELL according to our local paper which I had
to drive to the village to collect as there is no delivery today. You
see how SERIOUS things are. No post has arriven either.
I got
through to the village by the skin of my chattering teeth. Some of the
snow/slush drifts must have been 6 inches high in places!
I got home and managed to make it through the 2" mat of snow to the back door.
I
was then confronted by Mrs W who has decided that "we" must polish all
the posh cutlery we never use because it is "filthy". Looks nice and
shiney to me. But now a cloud has descended because I "stormed" in here
to seek solace in the arms of my "virtual" friends. Having told her if
she wants do spend the rest of the day with duraglit fine by me but why
should I be involved when the task seems pointless. But isn't that often
the case with women....so much energy expended on pointless work when
real things never get a look in.
Oh well I had better go in the
kitchen and help....rebellion over....once again. Mind you the day she
helps me to service my Austin 7 or one of the many bits of garden
machinery will be a day of miracles.
Yours inconsolably.
Dec. 18, 2009
|
|
|
|
Sun has been shining for most of the day here in Frome
but it is still very cold outside, went to look at the fishpool and it
is frozen over so no more food for the fish for a while.
If it wasn,t
for the family I know where I would be this winter, lying in the sun
outside the motorhome down by the Med., with a bit of luck we may still
get there for March or April.
Dec. 18, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hi all.
Weather about the same here in the Cotswolds, sunny most of the day
but very cold with the odd flurry of snow, just enough for a light
dusting but a hint of what is to come I think.
Brownie points in the end, eh Chris, but I feel there may be a few
deducted for the tantrum!. I think I may have earned a few as well. Had a
day off work today, dining room floor now complete, furiture back
in place and all cleared up. I even bought a bunch of roses to go on the
table. She was even forced to admit hat it looked 'Lovely', but swiftly
added that it needs redecorating in the spring!
Why do they have this obsession with things like 'Best cutlery' and
'Best china' that rarely if ever gets used? I s'pose if the Queen were
to call it could be wheeled out, but how likely is that?
Meanwhile back in the real world we carry on with the comfortable old mugs and cheap cutlery and I like it that way.
You have an Austin seven Chris, which year and model would this be
then? Incidentally, I like the photos of Parrotty, quite the little film
star now.
Best wishes to all and Parrotty.
Sticky.
Dec. 19, 2009
|
|
|
|
Thanks for your words of wisdom Sticky.
The cutlery looks magnificent.
Parrotty is indeed a little prima donna.
The A7 is 1933 box saloon 750cc. Photo in Parrotty's album.
Cheers all
Dec. 19, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hi Chris and all.
Nice photo Chris, super car. I'd ask you to bring it along to our
show but I realise just how impractical that is. Very nice indeed
anyway!
I know several people that own 'Chummies' and 'Rubys', but yours is
a bit later. A good friend, Mike Smith has two Morris's of the same
period, if I can find a photo I will paste something up for you. He is a
steam nut also, goes all over the world chasing photos of the last
steam locos in action. He even went up the Khyber Pass two or three
years ago, with an armed guard I hasten to add!
Incidentall when son Ben got married they had two vintage Austins
to transport the wedding party from the church to the reception.
Their wedding was very unusual transport-wise, the groom
arrived at the church in a rally prepared escort mk3 and the bride
arrived in a pony and trap, the two Austins were an ex London cab big
10, late twenties and a seven just a bit later than yours, owned by
a father and son, they also own several Field Marshall tractors.
Went up to the midlands today to collect a 'Pot belly' stove bought
on ebay, it's a Christmas pressie for Ben, he wanted one to go in his
workshop for a bit of warmth during these cold winter days. He always
has plenty of scrap wood so the fuel is free!
Got to go now, regards to parrotty.
Sticky,
Dec. 19, 2009
|
|
|
|
David, you have my complete admiration !! I wish
all our everlovings were as easily pleaed though
!! Ooerrr !!! Ther's another load of posts after
that one. Please excuse while I catch up>
Rich
Dec. 20, 2009
(Edited Dec. 20, 2009)
|
|
|
|
Hi all.
Just a quick note, 'cos it's getting quite late and I've got 'school' tomorrow.
Noticed that Howard has added to the identification of the crew in the rugby photo, well done Howard!
All a bit of a mystery to me I'm afraid 'cos I was a year earlier and in P, not X.
Regards to Parrotty and all who sail in her.
Sticky.
Dec. 21, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hello John,
I should have read your post before I put mine up for Howard..I`ll
guess we`ll have to put it down to another "senior moment" of mine ..ha
ha .. I Hope that Stroud is surviving the snow successfully, and that
you`ll be able to complete all neccessary tasks (on your / her list)
before the festivities begin in earnest.
I`ve been in contact lately with a young (now older) lady in
Minchenhampton, and she says it can get a bit hairy round her way (
SNOW, I mean of course lads..your minds ..really!). Where was I?,
oh, yes she`s very exposed where she is ..oh god..we`re there again
..
The weather does get a bit outrageous in her neck of the
woods, very little cover where she is ..II`m giving up on this
message ..all these misinterpreted inuendoes ..I`m off for breakfast ..
well, brunch actually ...oh, hello all .. hope we are well.
Dec. 21, 2009
|
|
|
|
Ho Ho Ho
We are returning to UK today but it is all up in the air at
the moment. Where we are supposed to be!!! It is looking 50/50 and
depends I think on how weather conditions are at Bristol airport later
today. Keep your eyes open, I will be wearing a red coat and a white
beard. Wherever you are I hope you and your families have the best
Christmas ever.
I hope to have internet access over the holiday so I can keep up with the holiday nonsense.
Hope parroty is not to tough and maybe you shopuld buy a turkey?
Cheers every body from Spain or England? Who knows?
Steve
Dec. 21, 2009
|
|
|
|
Steve, I have the 60x spotting scope set up in the
front bedroom .. firmly fixed onto the European inbound
flightpath of Bristol (International) Airport. Whilst my eyes are
still able to discern aircraft (and even the odd window or two) I feel
it will not be possible to establish the colour of your coat (or
hair) from this location. However, if you could open a window on your
landing approach, I feel that my hearing could possiblly remember
your voice. Could I suggest this phrase "Heeelllllllooooooooo
Biiiiiiiiillllllllllllllyyy" .. if successful contact is established, I
will of course respond with "HHHeeeeeeeeeeellllllllllllllooooooooooooo
Steeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeevvvie".
Should this fail, try email ... Timsbury is that little place on
the left of the big hill as you approach from the east .. keep an
eye out for the turbine and the camper, they should be all of 1/8" in
size and covered in snow .. you can`t miss either of them .... safe
landing on the ice at Bristol by the way.
Dec. 21, 2009
(Edited Dec. 21, 2009)
|
|
|
|
Hi Bill and all.
Interesting the things you have to say about the lady at
Minchenhampton, our weather eco system is similar to theirs
although we are 'Across t'other side o' t' dale'. Yes it can be a bit
exposed, you've got me doing it now! How shall I say, we do tend to
suffer from the wind. No that aint right either! Well you know what I
mean. Fortunately however, this time it has not been too bad with only a
sprinkling of snow, in fact in the low areas of the Severn flood plain
they've not had any. Just the same it has been very cold.
Nice that Steve is back in the UK for the festivities, I think he
stands a good chance of getting into Bristol, better than most other
airports possibly, keep your eye open for the red suit and the beard. I
don't think shouting at the plane is going to work as a suitable means
of communication, though.
Dining room floor finished and furniture back in, now I'm told 'We'
need to redecorate! This small matter has been deferred till the
spring, phew!
Still got more pressies to buy, pocket a lot lighter already! Bah humbug!
Best wishes to all for Christmas and the new year.
Sticky.
Dec. 22, 2009
|
|
|
|
Ow be Me Cockers!
I hope all those who have to travel get on OK.
We are "blessed" that we are at home for the first time in several years.
Today we irritated each other around Sainsburghas and spent obscene amounts on food that won't all be eaten.
Interesting phenomenon I noticed:
Mrs
W....wyffe...had compiled a LIST, with a little input from me. BUT she
evidently has a clear plan in her head so that ANY "help" from me that
does not coincide PRECISELY with whatever is in her memory banks, is
rejected out of hand. So anything I picked up from the displays whilst
trying to be useful was usually rejected. So being unable to cope with
rejection at the best of times, I gave up and just pushed the trolley.
BUT then was accused of not being interested or engaged enough.
Does this sound familiar to any of you or is it just my own dysfunctional relationship.
At least I was allowed freedom of action in the alcohol area....so it's not all bad.
Oohh!
another nasty moment yesterday. I had assumed that I could get the beef
for Xmas Day without problem. BUT the PRECISE cut of beef Mrs W had in
"mind" had all gone when I phoned the order. Si I was accuseed of not
discharging the "sole responsibility" she had given me. After a very
short sulk I found a butcher who will do the honours and all is nearly
well again. It's a very fine dividing line between success and disaster,
isnt it.
Still ahvn't got her a present yet. Terror grips my heart. Tomorrow I have to make a solo trip in ice and slush and hope.
I wish I could be like Parrotty who doesn't celebrate Xmas.
Dec. 22, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hi Chris and all.
Yes Chris, absolutely spot on!
Bin there, done that.
Thankfully all the supermarket shopping is over now till after the festivities.
Like you I'm still presentless, but trying to buy her a puzzle
ring. Too late for anything off the internet, but have found a shop at
Gloucester that has them, plan to pop in during lunch tomorrow.
Best wishes for the forthcoming festivities to all, and Parrotty.
Surely she will have some extra nuts or something!!!!
Have fun.
Sticky.
Dec. 22, 2009
|
|
|
|
Thanks again Sticky
Joy O Joy!!!!! JIngle jingle jingle etc
A day of hard won successes
Got Mrs Wyffe her present with little fuss.
Beef got after q-ing for 1 hour ....just like USSR...much blitz-type comradeship
Hair cut.....+ wine & peanuts from lovely Italian family barber
Wine
got at lovely cynical wine merchant ...we discussed the misery of
having to deal with the "great unwashed and feckless & young" at
Xmas...or any other time for that matter.
Collected No 2 son from train....bearing lots of London ethnic-type goodies, not obtainable in the provinces.
Have just made a N African lamb stew.
NOW I am going to sit DOWN.
Bless you alle and keep you.
Chris
Dec. 23, 2009
|
|
|
|
Hey Chris, any spare seats at yours for the Lamb
Stew? It sounds good to me. Could we have the recipe, please? Perhaps we
could have some favourite recipes on these hallowed pages. I'm no great
shakes in the kitchen, apart from a good stew or a roast, but maybe we
could show the women folk we are capable of something
edible.............or are we treading dodgy ground again?
Rich
Dec. 23, 2009
|
|
|
|
Nah! It's a good idea Rich, I like me grub as well,
goes with being a fat Ba*$&**, and I do like N. African, make a
nice pepper sauce to go with lamb, it was supposed to be Harissa but
turned out a little different. I do a mean, simple Ratatoue? can't spell
it but tastes good.
To echo other sentiments without swapping threads, liked the audio
Bill, even if I did take the p***, and I'd like to take this opportunity
to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous and Creative New Year.
Like you Mike I enjoy a nip or three of Jura, so about 19.00 on Christmas Day I'll raise a glass and toast you.
Stu
PS I think I might have cracked the Christmas pressie, tell you after, OK.
Dec. 23, 2009
(Edited Dec. 23, 2009)
|
Available