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AMAZING!

4/3/2023

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Last night Paul and I saw Nigel Kennedy at - of all places - The Regal in Evesham,  and.....

It was AMAZING!

I cannot express how flabbergasted I am (still) as how marvellous it was!!

I am still stunned and will have to write about it at another time, but needed to say something sooner rather than later!

If you have the opportunity to see this man at a live venue I would recommend you jump at the chance.

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Visit to Germany

19/2/2023

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When in Germany it is compulsory to eat cake!
Over a long weekend in mid-February Paul and I visited Germany again, 

​We spent time with our friends [who we met in Adelaide on our fourth day of moving to Australia in 2010] who moved back to Germany in 2019, having been in Oz for over twenty years.  They recently moved (again) from Bonn to a small town outside Frankfurt called Koenigstein | City of Königstein .  
Check out the Spa and Tourism tab for details on this website to discover why it has been a popular destination for quite a few years, and also why it is home to a number of wealthy people. It has the reputation as a retreat for ‘health and wellness’ but it is for the restorative quality of the air as opposed to – as we are used to in the Cotswolds – for waters.  See:  Healing Climate .  The town is well established and boats its own castle (in ruins) – legends from 466AD and documentary evidence from 1215, with the he granting of town rights in 1313.  See:  History of Konigstein
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The name 'Königstein' means 'King stone'. Local legend is that King Chlodwig (466-511), founded the town after building a castle on a hill as well as a chapel.
Other than eating and drinking and chatting we did manage one ‘touristy’ visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Upper Germanic-Raetian Limes, specifically Kastell Saalburg (translated as Castle Saalburg).  Kastell Saalburg is considered the best-researched and most completely reconstructed fort of the Upper Germanic-Raetian Limes and defines part of the “frontiers of the Roman Empire”. 
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Just as GB has Hadrian’s Wall “the Germanic Limes was a line of frontier fortifications that bounded the ancient Roman provinces of Germania Inferior, Germania Superior and Raetia, dividing the Roman Empire and the unsubdued Germanic tribes from the years 110 (under Trajan) to about AD 260.  
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The Upper German-Raetian Limes extends to a length of 550km between the Rhine in the north-west and the Danube in the south-east.  It consisted of about 900 watchtowers, numerous small forts and over 60 large forts.  More a guarded border line than a military defence system, the Limes enabled traffic to be managed, movement of people to be controlled and goods to be traded and taxed”.
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Tick!

14/2/2023

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We wrote the "to do" list in September, but I started planting the seeds of an idea about replacing the upstairs carpet at least three years ago!  I knew it would take a while but, after all, these things are never at the top of our priorities - although the fact that it was put in by a tenant whilst we were in Oz and it was an 'oatmeal' colour - but in my opinion, on the wrong side of the yellow spectrum.

So, instead, we have opted for a refreshing take on 'mint'!! 
 
And here's some basic history and psychology related to colour:  Green has been used to symbolise regeneration, good health and rebirth, mainly because of its natural association with vegetation, vigour and growth. Throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, green represented a person’s social rank and profession, and could only be worn by the gentry. The first recorded use of mint as a colour name in English was in 1920 – at the beginning of the Art Deco period.
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Green apparently contributes to feeling of rest and security.  Apparently, the name attributed to the “green room” within theatres is because a green shade would help performers relax before going on stage. According to colour psychology, green’s calming effects may be due to its associations with natural world.  Mint is a crisp, cool hue – a  bright, cheerful colour that evokes creativity, freshness, and lightness.  Just like me!
Below - boxes of books brought down from the greenhouse to be sorted.... so, eventually, we ended up with two boxes destined for the charity shop, one box to my Mum, two boxes back to the garden for storage and a selection of books for the shelving in greenhouse No.1.  The rest have made it into the new book 'cubes' in the newly carpeted and decorated bedroom.  Very grown-up for us!
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Family

11/2/2023

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Just a couple of group photos from the recent birthday  lunch.  
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Surprise!!

29/1/2023

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We enjoyed a family and friends surprise lunch to celebrate Dad's 80th birthday yesterday.  Our deviousness of the past two months paid off as it truly was a surprise for him!

We were handsomely looked after by the restaurant Lambs (Sheep Street, Stratford-upon-Avon) and they were in on the subterfuge and, as they said in an email, "don't worry, we know Dr Green very well indeed".  I'm not sure of that is a good thing or bad?*!

A web-search brought up a few quotes about older birthdays which are probably good to absorb into our psyche:
  • “In the end, it's not the years in your life that count, it's the life in your years." (Abraham Lincoln)
  • "Age is a case of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter."
    (Mark Twain)
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and one especially for Dad as he continues to teach his Shakespeare classes every term:
  • "Let me play the fool,
    With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come."
    William Shakespeare, Merchant of Venice (Act 1, scene 1)


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Garden Shed Working

15/1/2023

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Remember I said that the new job role was busy and full-on with trying to get on top of stuff that has tail-spun out of control for a few months, as well as the day-to-day tasks?  Like the 22,388 emails in the Inbox? Or the financial filing that was stuffed in boxes and carrier bags for months? Well, focus on that, plus the normal rigours of a new term and then add into the equation a "new build" = NIGHTMARE!
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Thought for Today - and 2023

31/12/2022

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I am copying and pasting part of a regular email that I receive from a charity based in Sydney.  I think it is not only pertinent at this time, but also throughout the year.  Food for thought for 2023:

"The emptiness when the tinsel comes down, and the outpouring of loving energy dwindles, can be particularly confronting for people who find themselves alone, without a sense of belonging. I’m reminded of the crucial “rope of hope” a visitor told me about last year. We might not have a magic wand, but we can use our hands and hearts to throw a rope of survival, of kindness and compassion, to someone who is feeling lost at this time".

See:  
https://www.waysidechapel.org.au/
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All that is gold does not glitter

30/12/2022

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“All that is gold does not glitter. Not all those who wander are lost: the old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost.” J.R.R Tolkien

The natural world has slowed down and much of the garden and its many life forms are now resting for the winter.  In terms of gardening, winter is a great time to do the more practical jobs like fixing things, cleaning tools, containers and pots, sharpening tools and turning compost heaps.  I spent a good hour or two digging over the veg patch the other morning – the sun was shining, the air was fairly mild and I needed to enjoy some physical exercise after all the indoor ‘festivities’.  

​According to various books and blogs turning and treating the soil now is beneficial for the upcoming growing season.  Apparently once soil temperatures drop below 7°C (45°F), biological activity slows to a crawl, and the soil and all its life forms (worms, bugs, bacteria) hibernate. 
Soil is a bit easier to work with when it’s damp and the weeds that will be invariably prolific will also be shallow rooted and therefore easier to remove.  The wind, rain and frost will damage the top layer of soil and it will lose nutrients and structure and start to erode. Therefore, January is also a good time (if you’re so inclined and industrious) to add garden compost, rotted manure, and other green waste  and maybe add seaweed solution and fish emulsion (which is a mild fertilizer) to strengthen plant roots. Seaweed is a soil conditioner and root tonic which helps to improve the balance of soil bacteria, support root growth and strengthen plant stems. Also, cover areas of the veg patch and/or flower beds with old rugs or carpet as this will help maintain a steady level of moisture in the beds, reduce the chances of the soil becoming compacted during the winter months  and ultimately keep the soil warmer for when seeds and plants can be sown outside. Admittedly, it doesn’t look particularly attractive but as you’re unlikely to be lounging in the garden much, and it’s dark late and early in the day, what you can’t see can’t offend you!
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Check out:  Soil Association: Winter
Other jobs that can be attacked if you’re really bored…

POTS:
Protect terracotta pots from cracking in freezing weather by bringing them indoors or wrapping in bubble polythene.  Move plants in pots to a sheltered spot if conditions turn very cold, as their roots are more exposed to the elements. Plant fragrant winter shrubs in pots and place near to the house or paths, such as chimonanthus, sarcococca and Daphne odora.

LEAVES – conflicting advice!
  • Rake up accumulated fallen leaves in borders that could be harbouring slugs and other pests….
OR
  • Don’t be too tidy – relax and leave parts of your garden to its own devices, giving places for animals and insects to shelter, a safe place to find food and water, or even to hibernate. For example, leave teasels for goldfinches and look out for butterflies resting in sheds.
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ROSES
Plant bare-root roses and other deciduous shrubs, plus ornamental trees; hang bird feeders near roses to attract hungry birds that will also pick off any overwintering pests.  Prune climbing roses between now and February.

FRUIT and NUT HEDGES
If you have space, plant fruit and nut hedges like hawthorn, blackthorn and hazel as these provide fruit and nuts through the winter and can support wildlife.

SHRUBS
Pile straw or bracken around the base of tender shrubs and climbers to protect them from falling temperatures.  Hard prune overgrown shrubs and hedges while they're dormant.

BULBS
Check stored bulbs and corms regularly for any signs of rot. Summer-flowering bulbs and tubers that are being stored over winter should be checked for any signs of mould or rot, and those that might be affected should be removed to prevent it spreading.  Any forced bulbs can be brought into a warm room to encourage flowering. January is the last chance to plant tulip bulbs provided that the ground is not frozen.

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SOWING & GROWING
Apparently, Boxing Day is the traditional day to sow onion seeds. In December and January it is recommended to choose seeds, rather than sets, and start them off in pots indoors or undercover, to aid germination. The young onion plants can be moved to the beg patch outside in spring, spacing them 10cm apart.
However, in order to show-off, I already have a few rows of very healthy onions, garlic and broad-beans as I planted my sets in October and November… so nyerrrr!

Moreover, now is a good time to look back at the previous year, its successes and failures and to consider what plants to attempt to grow in the upcoming months; it's a good time to plan, to dream, and to sort seeds!
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Sudeley Castle - Spectacle of Light

27/12/2022

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A new illuminated trail around Sudeley Castle’s beautiful grounds and enchanted woodland, including sparkling water features, light beams, lanterns and the mesmerising Carpet of Colour. 
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Christmas Eve Greetings!

24/12/2022

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No doubt you have been busy-busy over the past couple of weeks too?  Thankfully, the schools broke up for the holidays a week ago (16th).  This is unheard of – usually it is just a day or so before Christmas.  However, I know I have needed those extra days beforehand!  Did I say, I am now officially the School Office Manager (but without the financial aspect) and during the ‘cover’ period I worked an additional 170 hours… a tad more than my contracted seven hours per week?*! So, that’s why I desperately needed this week to semi chill-out and do the “nice” things for Christmas…. and we’ve gotten there!

​Naturally  much of the preparation seems to be about trying to get things right – there seems to be so much pressure from the life-style mob to have a “perfect” Christmas, it takes all the focus away from it really should be about.  Either which way, my free week has been a combination of the practical and prosaic with odd flurries of creative abandon!  Yesterday I put up the decorations – on the window sills as usual because the house is too small for anything else. Even now I have opted for the less is more approach – mainly because I was getting irritated with stringing up baubles and wayward angels / fairies.  

Paul has the next four days off work!  This is practically unheard of too – what with the normal Panto runs.  He has not been at the theatre this year but instead has been running the illuminated trail at the Cotswold Farm Park. 
However, it hasn’t been such an enjoyable experience this year – what with the minus 10, snow and severe frost weather conditions, followed by a jump in temperature (by 15 - 20 degrees), the snow melting plus days and days of heavy rain.  Not a good combination when dealing with outdoor electrics!  
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Back at home, every winter certain rooms in the cottage (well, there are only four / five rooms as it is) develop an irritating blush of mould on the corner walls and the stone lintels. This is the result of a combination of the cold temperatures outside, central heating inside and condensation. So, we will move some furniture and treat the walls and then wander into town for a coffee, because the treatment smells absolutely noxious and is best to be avoided.  So a very glamorous Christmas Eve morning – not!
However, on the flip side the late afternoon plans are much more indulgent.  I treated myself to a new pair of PJs and the most recent Robert Galbraith novel so will settle down to read that, accompanied by a glass or two of mulled-wine (home crafted, so Artisan!) and a few vaguely healthy snacks (Ha! Ha!).  I read a recent recipe which includes blue cheese, figs and honey and am looking forward to that!  As Paul and I are spending Christmas Day at my nieces’ house and Boxing Day at my sister’s, there has been no need for the ‘traditional’ food shopping, and instead the larder and fridge are resplendent with cold meats, cheeses, salads, fruit, nuts, crackers and (for me) smoked salmon.  Nice!​  
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Despite being fairly prudent why is it that all the basic goods run out at the same time?   So, stocking up with sauces, condiments, oils and baking ingredients was added to the mix, but I’m hoping that a “big shop” won’t be necessary for a number of weeks!  I hate shopping.

Well, the kettle’s on for another cuppa before the onslaught of practical activity...

Righty-Oh-Ho-Ho…. I will finish off by wishing you a fabulous Christmas and even better 2023!
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Decisions, decisions.

10/12/2022

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I can’t remember who I’ve spoken with or emailed so I thought I would just a do a quick up-date appraisal.  It also might go to some way to explain my 1) absence and 2) cantankerousness (this is a real word – I looked it up!).

As you know, I gave up one school association (2 x job roles) and then immediately was thrown into ‘emergency cover’ at another.  Well, in the past couple of weeks I have decided to accept their offer of a permanent contract as Office Manager – although I have warned both the Head and the Chair of Governors that it is a huge job to straighten-up and get under control and the whole situation will need to be reviewed in three months’ time.  Thankfully they agree with me!  For example, in the school office Outlook Inbox account there were 22,388 emails!  That’s not to say they hadn’t been read or actioned (I think the majority of old emails had) but these had not been filed or deleted …I can’t work like that! I prefer an empty-as-possible Inbox and file as soon as a task has been dealt with.  

So, if that is what the digital records are like in Outlook, can you imagine what the networks files are like?  And, don’t even mention the hardcopy paperwork…. The majority of which is years out of date!!  On top of all that, the school has just signed a building project and contracts and the timings are very tight:  School finishes on 16th December and demolition of the office and Class2 building starts on the 19th December.  Obviously because of statutory requirements the office function has to be up-and-running by the beginning of term (3rd January 2023) so we have ordered a garden office-building (aka a shed!) which is where the Head and I will be based for the foreseeable future!!  As well as the shed itself being erected we also have to organise / re-site all the normal furniture and associated filing, and the IT cabling, WiFi and servers, the photocopier / printer (used by everyone in the school), the fire and security alarms, telephone lines, etc, etc, blah blah blah.  Hmm… and it’s Christmas break in between-time and a lot of companies /tradies are on holiday (obviously and understandable).  As you can imagine it is a juggling act and a lot of this has to take a back seat to the normal day-to-day running of a school office – which is even worse in the run-up to Christmas…. Panto trips, concerts, church services, Nativity Plays and associated families in-fighting for tickets, Christmas lunch (regular? Vegetarian? Gluten free?  Any other kind of allergic reaction – made-up or real!?), Christmas Jumpers  and Shoe Boxes for charity, School Disco, cold, vomiting, snotty noses and exhaustion, and, more seriously, one confirmed case of Strep A… and so on and so forth.  
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So, I was already tired (as you know) but the past few weeks have been exhausting.  On top of that I was bogged down with organising entertainment for the Winchcombe Christmas festival.  It was a successful event and took place on Tuesday 6th December.  The emails received and social media comments are very positive, and that is from participants and visitors alike.
As many of you are aware, I have been mulling over things for a little while as I have been feeling so tired and out-of-sorts, and “not myself”. So, in light of all of the above, I have come to a few decisions this week – and acted upon them!  I wrote to my doctor and subsequently have a face-to-face appointment this week; I booked and managed to get a cancellation booking with my chiropractor (and that immediately ironed out a niggling irritation in my shoulder/neck); I have cancelled my gym membership – until I can summon up energy to go and benefit from it.  On the ‘wider’ scale I have also informed all the local associations / people (e.g. Christmas Festival, Winchcombe Together, Open Gardens) that I have done volunteer work with that whilst I am happy to help out, I am not doing organisational roles during the upcoming year.  Basically it was just like a continuation of being at work – emails and spreadsheets and dealing with [stupid] questions from people who couldn’t be bothered to think for themselves or take any initiative. 

I am also considering the remaining “portfolio” of job roles [paid employment] that I hold and whilst they are under control and do not necessarily require too much deep-thought, they are there, an additional commitment and often create a spiralling sub-conscious “to-do” list.

Which brings me to the crunch…. All of these decisions are fuelled by the need to step away from the “real world” as much as possible and look after myself.  I have so little patience with "the general public" and social media that I think it is probably best to keep a low profile.  It has been a difficult few years (for everyone, I know) and I think a little quiet time would be of great benefit (for everyone, I would suggest!). 

So – that’s what I am doing! 

Yes – I hear across the ether - so shut-up Rosie! ?*!

Right – I’m off!  Speak soon(ish).
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Running to Keep Up

24/11/2022

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I’m running to keep up at the moment.  Paul would laugh because I am the slowest walker in the world, and I DO have to jog to keep up with his normal walking stride!  However, it’s not to do with that, it’s just that the work thing - the portfolio no less - has taken on yet another trajectory.

In a nutshell, as I won’t go into all the details and complications, I finished my last day with one Primary School on the Wednesday before half-term and was driving home thinking ‘Ooh, lovely, I don’t have to BE anywhere for at least a week…la..di..la..di..la” to then, literally,  receive a frantic ansaphone message from one of my other schools asking “please can you help?”  
So, since then I have been providing “emergency cover” for one of my rural primary schools.  This is the tiny village up in the hills which has terrible phone reception, is in the middle of nowhere and is falling apart (the buildings etc). 

It’s a l-o-n-g story so I won’t go into it too much. but suffice to say it is taking up a lot more of my life than originally thought.  There is a great deal to sort out. The previous office manager had been unwell and has now resigned so it looks like I will be in situ for a few months yet.  In actual fact, the Headteacher and I are currently wrangling with the HR department about contracts - rates of pay, grade-scales, hours of work etc etc blah blah blah.  I have already clocked up over 120 hours of extra cover time – so I am keen to get this clarified as soon as possible.  Since being treated so shoddily by DCS I am even more cynical than ever and am actually being a bit of a “toughie” and being assertive (it’s a bit scary and I’m out of my comfort zone for sure).

However, as part of my ‘argument’ the school administration is in complete dire straits!  It seems that some BIG things have been out-of-control for a number of months, and this has just come to light - particularly issues with finances / accounts and, more worryingly, with a number of concerns about the SCR too.  For those that do not know, the SCR is “Single Central Register” and is a statutory requirement in every UK school – all to do with safeguarding and HR records, like references, employment, qualifications etc.  Basically, if the SCR is not up-to-date or following appropriate procedures then a school is in BIG TROUBLE and can fail inspections and so on and so forth.  GULP!

So, I’m doing A LOT of school office “fire-fighting” and am attempting to get as much as possible under control – although nothing to do with figures because, well, I’m not interested in finances!!! And I am USELESS.
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On the other side of general administrative things, I keep finding jobs that are half-done or not even started and whilst some are not particularly difficult these tasks generally take a lot of time and fiddling about to organise…. For example, liaising with the NHS vaccination team to get 88 children their nasal flu vaccinations, and various school trips including 25 Reception and Year 1 children (average 5 years old) to the Black Country Museum …. Including coach hire, emergency contacts, parent helpers with (or without) DBS clearance because of Child Protection rules and so on and so forth.  On the horizon there is also the whole-school trip to see the Dick Whittington Panto at Chipping Norton Theatre, various concerts and vocal workshops, the Nativity Play, church services and so on, and so on, It has been a case of “panic stations” in all honesty – from the teaching staff – and of course, I am trying to come up with the goods whilst maintaining a cheerful, calm and positive image (ha! ha!).

And, of course, there is all the normal day-to-day stuff to deal with, and that can be bad enough sometimes… registers (statutory requirement, obviously), lunches, parents’ queries and observations [groan], lost jumpers / t-shirts / hats, gloves and scarves, delivery guys, tearful fallings-out with best-friends in the playground and a variety of snotty noses and bloody knees – and that’s just the teachers?*!

So – that’s me.  Paul is also busy.  He has been up at The Cotswold Farm Park this week for the beginning of setting up the Light Trail for the Christmas thing.  He also has done a little studio cover at The Everyman and working at Malvern Showground doing a set-up for their Christmas Show. To date, he hasn’t had a day off in nearly three weeks – and most days start at 8am and he doesn’t get to leave until 6pm at the earliest.  As you can imagine he is shattered – and completely over all the additional problems that come with heavy rain and electrics!!
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I am also embroiled in the organisational machinations of the Winchcombe Christmas Festival which is on Tuesday 6th December, if you’re interested, 5pm – 8pm. 

I designed this poster, and it is on display throughout the town and on various social media and websites.

I am organising the “entertainment”.  Deep joy.  However, I had to tell the Committee that I am really under the cosh and that someone else might have to take up the baton more readily, but it is still very busy.  

So – that’s where we are at... just so you know!
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Sing!

24/11/2022

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"Every one of us has a voice that can sing, but most of us are yet to find our song. So many of us lead lives where we feel like a failure and often take it all too personally, blaming and shaming ourselves, when perhaps the truth is, we have yet to lend our voice to the right song". 
This excerpt is from a weekly update I receive from a church-based charity called Wayside Chapel in a suburb called King's Cross in Sydney.  They do a lot for homeless people - but much, much more.  I never visited the chapel, and neither am I a religious person, but I like the sentiments of the 'pastor and CEO'.  He talks a lot of sense, has a great sense of humour, is down to earth and appears to genuinely care.
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Mid-November...?!

19/11/2022

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I took these photos at least a week ago when there seemed to be sunshine and not the absolute deluge we have been experiencing recently. Also, I haven't made it up into the garden for days because it's been either too dark, too wet or I've just not been here (mainly the latter!).
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Retrospective Review

13/11/2022

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I’m quite pleased with the title for this blogette, mainly because this happened two weekends ago (Halloween weekend) and there were elements of the Retro and Artisanal (!) leanings at the Rudloe Arms Hotel (near Bath) where we had a night away.  See:  www.rudloearms.com .

Paul and I had a Dinner and B&B  deal at this hotel which is owned by Marco Pierre White – the original Bad Boy of the culinary world and enfant terrible chef.  White is the one that had been awarded three Michelin stars by the age of 32 years (in 1994), before handing them back (in 1999 when he retired as chef).

 
I think the Rudloe Arms is owned by MPW but is also part of a franchise (developed 2013) called Black And White Hospitality. The business operates a franchise model which allows property owners to open one of the eight Marco Pierre White branded restaurants within their property – names including, for example, Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, Mr White’s English Chophouse, Wheeler's of St James’s Oyster Bar & Grill Room, Wheeler’s Fish & Chips, Bardolino Pizzeria Bellini & Espresso Bar and Marconi Coffee & Juice Bar. 
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On the whole we enjoyed the experience and the main building – very Gothic and suitably spooky-looking for a Halloween night away – was impressive and comfortable, but we both agreed that we would have been disappointed if we had shelled out the full-price of £300 plus for the privilege.  As it was we spent £150 on the ‘deal’ and, of course, then paid the extra for wine and drinks.  And there’s the rub… upon arrival we had an hour to wait until being given access to our room.  This is fair enough as were early and were accordingly invited to relax in one “of our four lounges”.  These are comfortably furnished and eclectically decorated; quirky and interesting [but very poorly lit].  As I signed the register and handed over the obligatory credit card for security, I mentioned that we were “parched and would love a cup of tea!”.  To which I was hastily informed that yes, they could provide tea but they didn’t do Afternoon Tea and suchlike.  That’s fine, I responded, but I do need something and I’m diabetic “so a biscuit or similar would be great”. Ten minutes later a tray ladened with an elegant teapot, cups and saucers of white porcelain appeared… and that was it, and not so much as even a smile from the receptionist-waitress as she swept in-and-out the lounge!  So, a little while later, after enjoying the tea [only] and dumping our bags in the room (quite flash it has to be said), we high-tailed it to a local Co-Op to get some basic nourishment!?  Hmm… not an auspicious start.  The thing is, when I settled the bill upon departure the next day, that seemingly begrudged pot of tea cost £7.00 – two teabags and some boiling water…. not impressed.
The evening meal was very tasty, nicely presented and the ingredients obviously of a very high standard but again, it was nothing particularly special.  There was a nod to the ‘retro’ with prawn cocktail on the starter menu, and the main choices were heavily weighted to Italian pastas and gnocchi but if you did fancy a steak then there was a £12.00 surcharge and, on top of that, additional charges for any ‘sides’.  Good job we were on “a deal”!

So, in retrospect and reflection, it was a good experience, but we have enjoyed better meals at the local ‘posh’ hotel Ellenborough Park and Winchcombe’s very own No 5 Restaurant… which we can walk-to and meander back after consuming fabulous food and intoxicating wine!

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Red Sky at Night...

31/10/2022

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Matthew 16 begins with a confrontation between Jesus and some of Israel's religious leaders – a group of Pharisees and Sadducees who demand that Jesus provides another sign from heaven [to indicate he is the Messiah].

In the Bible (Matthew 16:2-3) Jesus said, “When it is evening, ye say, it will be fair weather: for the sky is red. And in the morning, it will be foul weather today: for the sky is red and lowering.”
Jesus points out they can read basic signs in the skies to predict weather but refuse to recognise obvious signs such as the many miracles He has already accomplished. He declares He will not give them any sign but that of Jonah (Jonah 1:17), who was swallowed by the whale and restored on the third day (Matthew 16:1–4).
 
Now you know!
So, the colour of the sky has harboured a great number of folklore and sayings, and these are often correct, and scientifically proven.   For example:
  • "Red sky at night, sailor's delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning." The early settlers to the USA used these indicators to predict their local weather conditions.
  • “Red Sky at Night, Shepherd’s Delight.  Red Sky in the Morning, Shepherd’s Warning” and this is because our prevailing weather comes from the west.  Stable, high pressure systems trap dust in the air which diffuses the blue light which creates a sunset that can be vivid and red.
  • Whether clear or cloudy, a rosy sky at sunset presages fine weather, and “When the sun sets bright and clear, an easterly wind you need not fear"
 
  • a red sky in the morning predicts bad weather, or gusty wind and perhaps rain
  • a grey sky in the morning, means fine weather
  • a high dawn - wind
  • a low dawn - fair weather
  • a bright yellow sky at sunset presages wind
  • a pale and yellow sky – wet weather
 
Similarly, ‘Rain Before Seven, Fine by Eleven’ is often correct because when there is rain, there are also strong winds and this usually means that early morning rain, will be blown away by midday.
 
Plants and wildlife can be observed to react to weather conditions too, for example:
 
  • “Closed in the Morning, It’ll Be Pouring”:  Some flowers, such as dandelions and tulips, close their petals in the evening and if they do not open again by morning, rain could be on its way - the phenomena of flora closing their petals at night is called nyctinasty
  • Nyctinasty is the circadian rhythmic nastic movement of some plants in response to the onset of darkness, or a plant "sleeping". Nyctinastic movements are associated with diurnal light and temperature changes and controlled by the circadian clock.
  • Whilst not fully understood by scientists, there is one theory that some plants close their petals to protect pollen from becoming wet and heavy with dew. So, it follows that if there is moisture in the air during the morning, and a dandelion or tulip’s petals are closed, carrying an umbrella might be prudent!
 
There are plenty of sayings or proverbs pertaining to plants as well, such as
 
Onions:
 
Onion-skins very thin
Mild winter coming in;
Onion-skins thick and tough,
Coming winter cold and rough.

 
Grass:
 
When dew is on the grass, rain will never come to pass:  Dew forms when grass gets colder than the dew-point temperature (the temp at which dew forms). At night, grass cools when heat from the ground radiates upward. In a clear, dry atmosphere, this heat escapes the atmosphere and rises into outer space. In a moist and humid atmosphere, water vapour absorbs some of that heat and can redirect it back down to the ground, warming up the grass, and thus keeping it dew free.  Dew on the grass is therefore a sign of a high-pressure system, and good weather.
 
April showers bring May flowers: 
 
Cool, wet weather in spring helps grass prepare for strong growth later in May.
 
Trees:
 
The ash before the oak, choke, choke, choke.
The oak before the ash, splash, splash, splash:
 
This refers to which tree breaks bud first in the spring; If ash trees break bud before oak trees, this foretells a wet summer.
 
and
 
Pinecones open up when good weather is coming: 
 
Scientifically based – as during dry weather, pinecones dry out, which causes their scales to stand out and appear more "open", whereas in wet weather, the scales curl up and the cones return to a more closed shape.

​So - now you know [even more!].

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November - last chance saloon!

29/10/2022

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Jobs for November:

Flowers:
  • Start sowing sweet peas for next year as these can be overwintered, under cover or in the greenhouse. Sweet peas are a favourite of mine because it is good to see something growing over the winter months and the end result is [usually] abundant, colourful and fabulously aromatic.
  • I have yet to do this, but November is the perfect time for taking root cuttings from perennials like anchusa, phlox, verbascum, oriental poppy and acanthus.​
  • I am also over this task but it’s the last opportunity to plant the last of the autumn bulbs -but I’m not the greatest fan of tulips and daffodils anyway.  However, if you do like these, then don't forget to put some in pots too.  Also, if you are super organised, plant Paperwhite narcissi for Christmas and plant indoor hyacinths such as White Pearl.
  • Otherwise, November is the last opportunity to harvest tender perennial flowers like chrysanthemums and dahlias, as well as half-hardy annuals like cleomes.​​
Vegetable Patch:
  • Garlic such as Extra Early Wight, Picardy Wight and Germidour for autumn plantings) . Great companion plants for garlic include strawberries, nasturtiums, chamomile and dill – but I think these will need to be sown in the spring months unless you already have them in the veg patch.
  • Onion sets – Senshyu, Radar, Electric, Hybound, Red Baron, Stuttgarter, Sturon and Red Fen – to name but a few!
  • Broad beans Aquadulce Claudia is a reliable long pod that produces impressive yields from tall plants. Also, Luz de Otono, the early maturing De Monica and the Sutton are a good bet.
  • Rhubarb crowns are best planted in the spring and autumn months, but you can also plant a dormant crown now. 
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  • November is also best for planting one-year-old dormant asparagus crowns and, preferably, in light, well-drained soils. Asparagus is notoriously a slow-burner, and it will take at least two years for tender spears to appear.  Varieties to consider are Gijnlim, Pacific Purple, Jersey Knight, Mondeo and Guelph Millennium is highly cold-tolerant, but the taste of asparagus is always worth the wait!​
​Planting in pots / containers:
  • Durham Early, a spring cabbage variety, is a good for overwintering and can be sown now, as can salad leaves such as mizuna and spinach 
  • Also, to enable harvesting in the early spring, sow peas such as Kelvedon Wonder and Meteor, and winter varieties of spring onions like Performer – which do well in pots too.

 On the windowsill or in the greenhouse:
  • Chilli peppers can be sown any time of year, but it is fabulous to grow them for their optimistic and bright colour.  These varieties sound dangerous but can be over-wintered in the greenhouse - Naga Viper and Trinidad Scorpion or sow smaller hot varieties such as sweet Medusa or dwarf scarlet Apache.  Good partners for chilli include parsley, nasturtiums, basil, beans and peas. 
  • Dark Opal basil is another one for the warmer windowsill and, in summer, is transplanted outside into raised garden beds or a large container with spinach or tomatoes.
 
Some November plants but I am not currently bothered with include horseradish, mushrooms and oyster plant. The latter is also known as sea mertensia or sea bluebells and generally grows in coastal areas but also does well in rockeries – and is increasing in popularity as a gourmet accompaniment, either raw or cooked, to fish dishes.  I might try it if I have room in the greenhouse!
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Planning!

28/10/2022

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A small delivery of seeds!  I have not used this supplier before but Seed to Suit are environmentally aware, uses recyclable packaging, and seed quantities are better suited to individuals and small holdings or allotment owners.  They are also reasonably priced.

www.seedstosuit.co.uk

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Weirdly Odd

28/10/2022

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28th October 2022:  Today’s temperature is 64º Fahrenheit / 18º Celsius - which [apparently] is warmer than 97% of temperatures recorded on this date since records have been taken.  This might explain why I am even more confused than usual when surveying ‘the estate’.  I think the plants are similarly out-of-kilter because they seem to be getting a greenery spurt-on, flowering and even buds are appearing. It as though it is Spring – but in October!  For my Australian friends – this is VERY ODD for the northern hemisphere!!  
Normally (whatever that might be) the weather in the UK during November (less than a week away) ranges from “poor to unpleasant” depending on the destination. Average temperatures in London are a daytime maximum of 12°C (53°F), and a minimum night-time temperature of around 6°C (42°F) and moderate monthly rainfall. Edinburgh is colder with maximum daytime temperatures around 10°C (49°F) and minimum night-time temperatures around 4°C (39°F) and again moderate rainfall.  So – generally unpleasant.  

However, my cosmos (annuals), nasturtiums, feverfew, geraniums, hollyhocks, sweet peas (perennials) are all flourishing.  Don’t get me wrong – I like that it is still attractive, and the bees are buzzing, and the birds are happily foraging – BUT it is of some concern when it is probably an indicator of global warming.
Should these (below) all be flowering so profusely at the end of October??
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Oops! Whoosh!

18/10/2022

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Oh – what happened there?*! 

​I can’t believe it is over a month since I updated properly. I have been meaning to write decent chatty emails or Blogs for a while but it’s either been a case of ‘too much computers’ and I can’t stand it any longer, or I have not been in the mood to be chatty and upbeat!  Actually, and I think I mentioned this before, I have been continually exhausted for months and it seems that it is not me just being lazy or pathetic but more to do with the fact that I am B12 deficient.  SIGH!  I am on medication (pills) at the moment but, in all honesty, I don’t think they are having much effect (I’ve been taking them for at least two months now) so I am going to speak to my Doctor or Diabetic Nurse about having the injection.  
I have heard that the injection can be a real game-changer.  It has been so weird, and I have been feeling like a wrinkled-up and deflated birthday balloon.  Having said that, I have had a good day or two – probably helped by the fact that it has been bright and sunny!
 
Paul has been setting up / working at the Cheltenham Literature Festival (which is quite a big thing over here) as well as doing the odd shift at The Everyman Theatre too.  After this Cheltenham work he will be employed until into January on various winter and Christmas “festivals” including running the Cotswold farm Park Enchanted Light Trail again.   However, the past few days have been somewhat miserable as he has been unwell – and yesterday recorded a very definitely positive Covid test result.  SIGH!
 
We were meant to be having a few days away at Marco Pierre White’s hotel near Bath – a dinner, bed and breakfast deal that I got months ago.  Fortunately, the hotel was incredibly kind and allowed me to postpone the break-away.  They certainly weren’t obliged to as the terms and conditions were quite clear about 48 hours’ notice and no amendments and all that jazz but having sweet-talked the receptionists, they have re-allocated us over the weekend of Halloween.  PHEW!
 
I have been (am) feeling a bit fed-up recently.  So, I don’t know if this was the right thing to do or not, but whilst I still juggle numerous part-time jobs (seven roles currently), I handed my notice in at one of my schools – where I am a part-time Administrator in the school office as well as being their Clerk to the Governors. Anyway, with all the combined job roles in all employment having a certain amount of micro-management and lots of bureaucracy I weighed up the odds and this particular employment got the chop.  It is a shame as the team is great and the children enjoy a fabulously run school environment, but that’s the way it goes.  My last official day in school is tomorrow (19th).  
 
My various other jobs seem to be under control – the past month has been a bit of a nightmare, but I am feeling more relaxed about everything now that I made the decision to make some changes.  However, there is the possibility of a second interview with an organisation called the Cheltenham Trust (p/t flexible/work from home role) and, funnily enough, amongst other things, they run the Cheltenham Festivals...!!  see:   Homepage | Cheltenham Festivals 
 
So... what else?  Nothing very exciting I'm afraid.  I have spent some time sorting things out at home, including planting up some Penstemons which I bought as plug plants – because they were a bargain on-line offer – and the window box.  I’ve also wielded the secateurs with a vengeance and enthusiastically prune anything that I come across [everything then!] and have moved some shrubs and plants.  I am avoiding any real work – like weeding and digging and heavier stuff – just haven’t got the energy.  However, I do think being out in the garden and the greenhouses is of so much benefit.  Especially when the sun is shining!

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Autumn Planting

16/10/2022

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Today I planted two-and-a-half rows of 'Senshyu' Onions.  First cultivated in Japan, these onions a are hardy and resilient overwintering variety that will grow outside uncovered over the winter months.  The reward is large, crisp, semi-flat onions with yellow/brown skin.  bulbs at the end of next spring. They need less light that other onions, so will grow through the short days of winter and early spring.

I also planted a row of ‘Germidour’ Garlic – a  soft-neck variety, violet streaked skin with white cloves and a mild flavour.  It is best to plant garlic in September and October as they respond well to colder temperatures; most varieties need one to two months at 0–10°C (32–50°F) for good bulb development. 

Garlic needs a long growing season to do well, and therefore planting in autumn is perfect timing so that plants develop roots and shoots before the heavy frosts. When sown in October they should be ready to lift and dry by June or July next year.

Fortunately, garlic needs little care – only needing regular watering in spring and early summer, and when the foliage turns yellow this is a sign that the bulbs are reaching maturity.  Then the bulbs can be lifted from the soil and left to dry out for a couple of days, in full sun.  Easy as!

It has been such a beautiful weekend that I have spent a lot of time pottering about, tidying-up and prepping - optimistically - for the winter.  Check out my progress (below) - I've even moved shrubs and perennials as instructed by the magazines and books and planted up pots and containers with winter flowers.  Super organised!

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Wedding of the Year!

12/9/2022

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Crumplebury is a state of the art, modern events venue with eleven bedrooms and fifteen hundred acres of rolling countryside. Set on the borders of Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Crumplebury is surrounded by splendid woodland and the luscious green fields of the organic home farm.

“Food to dine for…

Our intimate, family run, fine-dining restaurant in a pigsty. Since 2012, Green Cow Kitchens has been showcasing the very best produce from our home farm. As you drive down our country lanes, you will pass lovingly nurtured cows, sheep and pigs. In winter, our monthly tasting menus feature estate pheasant, partridge and duck.  Throughout the seasons, our chefs forage for wild garlic, hedgerow berries, damsons, plums, apples, pears, puff balls, elderflower and more. At Green Cow, we pair the warmth and intimacy of a family run service with a deep care for culinary excellence. We passionately curate memorable eating experiences, and we grow the cows ourselves”.

 
Crumplebury Farm, Whitbourne, Worcester WR6 5SG
www. crumplebury.co.uk

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Be Careful...

8/9/2022

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Be careful what you wish for! 

​Believe it or not, I managed three hours of the INSET [training] day and have been ILL ever since.  Truly!!  What a disastrous week. I have been (am) feeling really ropey as well as guilty because (despite my initial protestations about the beginning of term) I haven't been into school when the kids have been in situ and all the madness ensues.
I am very anxious that tomorrow is a real turning point in my pathetic and weak-and-watery stakes because we are [meant to be] attending a wedding on Saturday.  We have been looking forward to this event for a l-o-n-g time.  To be honest, I am sure we will go, come hell or high-water and if I hit a downward slide then I can secrete myself away somewhere quiet at the very plush venue.  Keep your fingers crossed that this isn't necessary please!
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But I don't want to go to school!!

4/9/2022

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Personal Admin and Update

4/9/2022

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I am doing some personal administration (again, and so boring) and am looking at car insurance quotes as we are looking at buying a ‘new’ second-hand car off a friend. It is a “VAUXHALL CORSA SXI 16V TWINPORT” – whatever that means. I don’t particularly care as long as it drives OK! 

If it is of interest – it’s a black car!!
 
What else?  I have been shortlisted for a part-time position at a local independent school and have an interview for this later in the week. Details to be confirmed but, amazingly, it does not clash with any of my other scheduled ‘in situ’ work hours. This makes life a little less stressful at least. 
The role is 3 days per week which means, should I be successful, and should I want the job, I could give up one or two other commitments.  I am also going to be doing some copywriting for a friend’s business (and her clients), and this is something I did whilst in Australia (part-time / remotely) and I enjoyed it.
 
However, having said all of this, I have been thinking of trying to move away from employment within education as – basically – I think it has been bringing me down.  The kids are fine… it’s the parents [sense of entitlement and general ignorance] and politics [Gloucestershire Education Department needs a good shake-up, as does the national set-up] and ridiculous paperwork [bureaucracy, lack of funding].  I mentioned that I needed to get out and “do something mindless” to my best-friend but she said that would drive me mad too!  So, the solution must be to…. win the lottery!?*
 
Talking of employment and bureaucracy – you will be pleased to know that after approximately 3 months of dipping in and out of the Government’s HMRC Gateway and filling in numerous forms, contacting various on-line helpdesks, receiving both digital and paper copies of instructions, this week I eventually managed to get access to be able to submit my self-employed income ‘self-assessment’.  Good grief… I am trying to be honest and do the right thing and give them money, but what a palaver.  I have until October 31st to submit this information on-line.  I will obviously start that process soon because no doubt it will take weeks…
 
On the more fun side of life, it has been a mixture of events both done and dusted and on the horizon:
 
  • I have booked and fully paid for flights to Kefalonia for a holiday next summer;
  • I have booked and half paid for the accommodation in Kefalonia next summer;
  • We have a weekend treat (dinner, bed and breakfast) booked at Marco Pierre White’s hotel coming up next month;
  • I met up with some Australian friends in Bath in August; they were doing a big European trip and it was fortunate that the dates managed to gel;
  • I spent a weekend seeing friends (from university) in Brighton.  We hadn’t been able to get together for nearly twelve months so that was a lot of chit-chat, gossip and exclamations.
  • Like the majority of the UK's population, I lounged around a great deal in the extreme heat of July and August reading books and seeking out some shade…
  • Whilst also disconcertingly padding about the scorched grass and dehydrated garden and hopelessly watering as many plants as possible.  It was hopeless as a future Blog will demonstrate!
  • Oh – and last weekend we were in Bonn again!  (see other Blog).
​​
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