Wakes Week

It was usual for each cotton weaving town in Lancashire to have a week's holiday from the mills during the summer months, normally called Wakes Week. The mill closed completely and most folk went off to Blackpool and stayed in lodgings for a few days. The unlucky ones who couldn't afford it went on 'day trips' and caught the sharrabang to Fleetwood, New Brighton or Morecambe.

That's where my blog has been this past week. Off on it's holidays!!

It's been a year since I started it and for those folk who have shared it with me, I hope some of it has been interesting.

Happy Birthday, BLOG xxxx

Melvyn Was Rammed!!

We stopped off at the bank on the way to bowling today and, as there wasn't a space, Brian pulled in behind three parked cars. I noticed a Spanish lady turn up who started to load her beach stuff into her vehicle. Being polite I explained that he was in the bank and would be two minutes but she didn't seem very interested.

Next thing I saw was the back end of her car coming towards me and then 'dunk'. I couldn't even get out of the car as her's had trapped me in! Luckily, she noticed and after explaining again where Brian was she was full of apologies. Melvyn was unscathed so off we went. I'll be having flashbacks though!!

My Spanish was tested again when we got to the underground car park at the bowling. There was a queue of around fifteen cars so I got out and went off to see what the problem was. A chap was standing by the ticket machine looking a bit perplexed. I tried to help but he went off into a bit of a rant telling me, in English, that I was a visitor etc. and should address him in his own language! When I did he turned his back on me!! I was beginning to wish I'd stayed in bed!

Bowling started fifteen minutes late as folk had to find alternative places to park. We lost 6 - 2 after all that!

Village News

There seems to be a lot of shuffling about here lately.

Dave and Caron have bought a new apartment and plan to move shortly. Young Charlotte is well excited and says that I'm allowed to have a look at her new bedroom. She reckons that she will 'ring me' when she is ready! She does make me chuckle.

Another move is in the offing as Dave and Jane are looking for somewhere new.

Sue and Don have bought a boat. We haven't seen it yet but I expect Sue will 'ring me'!!!

We met up with my step-daughter, Donna, earlier this evening. She was rushing off to meet up with her mates but had time for a quick beer with us. All seemed to be well with her.

Bowling for us tomorrow. I've a hankering for a nice roast beef dinner and plan to stop off at a nearby bar afterwards. A bit mad in this heat but I really fancy some roast spuds and Yorkshire puds!

A Pre-Season Friendly

Accrington Stanley v Blackburn Rovers.

A match which I would have loved to have been able to watch. Real footie, not like the namby pambies in the World Cup! I've just read the match report and Rovers won 3 - 0. Not to worry, Stanley have all the world to grow in.

This is a pic of the first showing of their new kit. I'm looking forward to watching their progress in the coming season.

I did ask permission from the photographer to include this photograph and if you would like to see more of his excellent work visit........

www.kipax.com

The Door Saga

I completely forgot about the door problem when I took Top out this morning. Most people in our complex go out to work during the day and there I was stuck outside! The lock looked ok but my key wouldn't turn it......grrrr.

It was baking hot, I hadn't taken any cash because I didn't expect to need any and Brian was away at work. I'd even left my mobile home.

Anyway, I went around the block again and then stood outside for a while hoping for a miracle. Luckily, after ringing my neighbour's bell for about ten minutes, I managed to get inside.

It was all sorted later in the afternoon. It seems that a new lock was required and we all got new keys! Why on earth didn't they give the keys out at the time? I know, it is Tenerife!

Summer Madness..............

...............is the topic for the latest photo competition. I need to have a think about this one as summer is sort of normal around here!

The annual fiesta is approaching and, fortunately, it's at the other end of town this year. My first few blogs, almost a year ago (how time flies!), recorded the suffering we endured because of the loud music etc. It was horrid.

It's been a little chaotic in our apartment complex this evening. The lock on the main entrance door has broken and folk can't get in! Bells ringing everywhere!!

No Escape!

I did try my best to stay in my bed this morning but it didn't work as 'im indoors was determined that I join him in his market venture. I was out of the door before I knew I was awake.

We were informed that it was market procedure to book your table at eight o'clock but after spending five minutes looking for the 'man' we were told he was off having coffee and would return about nine. Thankfully, it's only a two minute walk back to my apartment so I escaped at this point and found my own coffee at home.

To be honest, when it all got sorted I quite enjoyed it. Brian was in charge of sales and did quite well at it, whilst I sat on the kerb edge and chatted to the lovely South American lad on the next stall. He was really nice and we managed to converse in a sort of Spanglish way. He left me in charge of his table a couple of times too! A few of our mates passed by and stopped for a chat. Happen early mornings are ok............well, now and again!

We bailed out just before one o'clock having sold over half our books and making about 55 Euros. Not a bad effort and well done Brian.

Hopefully, I Might Sleep Through

We are over-run by books again. I seem to collect hundreds of them no matter where I happen to live. Unfortunately, I don't have the shelves like I had in our house in England so it's time for a clear out.

This week's brainwave is to take a hundred or so up to the market and sell them off. I'm not too keen really. Firstly, I don't want to sell my books and secondly, I really don't want to get out of my bed at seven in the morning!!

I'm really hoping that I might be so sound asleep that 'im indoors will just go and sort it all out by himself! We shall see.

Poor PS2!

It went and died on me the other day, before I finished my game too!! Never mind as I suppose I got my money's worth out of it, having had it for almost five years. One good thing is that I might get around to doing other things such as cleaning the windows, or happen not.

A quiet word to Sue. Please don't lend 'im indoors any more 'ello 'ello dvd's. If I hear about that 'fallen madonna with the big boobies' once more I shall scream!

So Hot!

It was far too hot to sleep last night so, after tossing and turning for a few hours, we decided to take Top out for a walk around the village. As it was just after four o'clock it was well quiet and we had a pleasant stroll down to the beach. Normally, it's a 'no dog' area but at that time of the night we thought it would be good to let Top off the lead so that he could have a silly half hour charging around.

It was fun! Topsie had a swim and I had a paddle and then we set off towards home.

The village was coming to life and we discovered that the bar Tropicana was just opening and stopped off for a quick beer. It was fascinating to watch the local Canarians who called in for a brandy and a coffee whilst waiting for their lifts to work. The donut man turned up, papers were delivered and all at five in the morning!

We moved on to Antonio's and watched more of the same whilst sitting outside in the dark! The lottery man was selling his tickets, people were buying sandwiches and the place was packed. It was an interesting experience. We finally crawled into bed around seven!

I was a complete wreck at the bowling though and decided that I shouldn't go off on nocturnal wanderings on match days!

A Quiet Week

I haven't had much to mention this week as all is quiet on the Western Front, as my Nana used to say!

Bowling was good though, with another win for Doreen and I. Doreen writes for the local English paper and has given me glowing reports lately:-

'I don't usually write about games played on an alternative day, but my partner, June (Rackettes) had a superb 188 and 176 and just missed her 200 shirt. Well played - a suprising victory for us - and I'm sure you'll get that yellow shirt someday.'

and.........

'A good series from June (The Rackettes) earned them the draw against Ron and Dave'.

Presentation night looms and, once again, I'm hoping for the most improved player award. I have done so well this last six months that even 'im indoors thinks that I deserve it. Fingers crossed!

Talking of 'im, he's down the bar watching the World Cup Final. I lost interest after the cheating in the last England game. It would be good if France won though as Barbara, Vic's wife, drew France in the sweep at Chrissy's Bar. She stands to win 160 Euros!

Spyro

Our PS2 is playing up and won't seem to load most of our games. I was a little bored on Sunday, not having bowling to go to, and unearthed an early Spyro game which, luckily for me, worked.

We are now hooked and spent most of the afternoon taking turns. Sometimes I really wonder how old we are!

Should I manage to get myself motivated tomorrow, I need to have a wander with my camera to find a 'blot on the landscape' for the new photo competition. My roses came in at sixth place which was quite a good result but I would love to win.

Nothing much to report by way of village news. Our regular haunt, Antonio's Bar is due to close at the end of the month, for the usual staff holiday, so the topic of conversation, yet again, is where do we all go for the whole of August?

Our Alison

She had a birthday over the weekend and there she is with my littlest grandaughter, Tully. Hope you had fun Alison, but with England losing on the same day, I expect it was a bit of a let down.

I met up with my friend, Ann, today, Caron's mum. She's over again and for four weeks this time. She brought me a huge pork pie!!

Hopefully, we'll have the chance for another crazy day out.

Well!

I was working up to having a little tirade about cheating gits and then I saw this.

When he limped off during today's match I did say to Dave that we'll never see him play in a World Cup ever again.

Well done, England, so sorry, but at least Becksie has manners. Love you lots xxx

Housework!!

Not something that I'm very keen on but it seems that it has to be done. Some folk tend to get it over with as quick as they can but I like the reward system. Cleaning the bathroom entitles me to half an hour on the PS2, changing the bed means that I have fifteen minutes on the computer and for preparing a meal I can do whatever I like for the rest of the day!!

I made a stew, bunged it in the oven on medium and then wandered over to the bar to watch the second half of the footie. I can't really comment as I didn't really feel like cheering for either team. Germany now faces Italy. Poor Ukraine, I fancied their chances and half hoped that they might play against us in the final.

It's party time tomorrow, my boy has promised to win the cup for injured Owen and I believe him.........go for it Becksie xx

Back to the stew, 'im indoors really enjoyed it but I would have preferred fish and chips.

Well Quiet

It's strange how quickly you become used to something. We've been watching one match a day throughout the World Cup and have felt really lost since the end of the last round.

Normal service will be resumed tomorrow, at least for a couple of days.

I met up with Martin today at the bowling. Another good result........6 - 2 for us!! Four games in one week and all wins, well done us!! Now I can have a rest until the ninth of July.

My grandson (also a Martin) was so proud that his school won against nine other schools at Sports Day this year. He told me all about it and was so excited that he won his race. He said that he is the 'sporty' one in his family! My bowling doesn't count then!!

Offside?

The general feeling about tonight's game was that the first goal from France was offside. I wasn't quite sure, but how many females are allowed to comment on the offside rule! Ribery does look rather wicked though, doesn't he?

It was really sad for the Spanish fans in our local bar though. Being a vibrant race they normally toot horns and shout and scream, but, they all, quietly, went home.

Sorry, Spain.

Good Bowling

I played Thursday, Sunday and Monday. All league matches and some good results. A 6 - 2 which I've mentioned before, followed by a 4 - 4 and then today Martin and I had an 8 - 0!!

My arm is killing me tonight and I still have a make up match to play for Monday League which I could get out the way on Thursday. My right arm is beginning to look like Popeye's!!

Blast From The Past

An old friend of mine, John, emailed this pic to me, taken at his wedding in the late sixties. He now lives in America and I haven't seen him in years.

Here I am on the left with the best man and the bride's sister.

That's My Boy!

My boy Beckham got us through to the quarter finals today and hit the record books as being the only England player to score in three world cups. What a star!!!

I admit that it was painful to watch. Those long ball passes didn't do to much for our chances. Then again, everytime an England player got even within a sniff of the ball he had his legs taken from under him.

Thankfully, it's over and we just have to prepare ourselves for Saturday's game against Portugal. They had two red cards so happen it could be good for us!

WELL DONE ENGLAND!!

Early Bowling

Most of us have opted for early bowling later today so that we can all be back in our respective villages in time for the football.

We aren't sure where we can go though as we can't get coverage at home and our usual bar is closed on Sunday's. I did ask if they might open but you can imagine the answer!!

Fingers crossed and 'COME ON ENGLAND'!!!

Classic Beauty

That's this week's photo competition subject and here is my entry. No votes yet but it's still early days.

I played really well at the bowling yesterday and scored a massive 188 in the middle game followed by 170 in the last. George and Carol were dumbfounded as Doreen and I beat them 6 - 2!!

It was a bit of a blow for me as I missed my spare on the eighth frame. Had I knocked the flippin' thing down I would now be the proud owner of a 200 shirt!!

We went out this afternoon to watch the Spain match. It wasn't too interesting but Spain ended up top of their group with three wins under their belts.

Scary Sunday is approaching, I'm not sure if I'll have the courage to watch England. I so hope they win!

Poor Michael!

A horrible thing to witness and it really made me cringe. We have heard several conflicting reports today about the length of time he will be out of action but one thing is for sure, we won't have him back for this World Cup.

Joe Cole's goal was superb, best in the tournament I reckon.

No football for us until Friday, when Spain play Saudi Arabia and steps are in hand to cancel the bowling on Sunday. I can't bowl whilst England are playing!!

I had a little chat to Charlotte earlier and she is so excited that her Nan is coming to stay next month. Uncle Nigel is turning up too!!

Stressful Or What?

It really didn't look like Spain had a chance at one point. The early goal from Tunisia had them seriously rattled.

Thankfully, whatever they had with their orange during the half time break seemed to buck them up and the second half was perfect.

Poor Tunisia tried to defend their one goal lead and although they did their best, Spain were the better team at the end of the day.

Well done Spain!!!

What Can I Do?

As you may recall, I had to put Jose in a holding cell the other day because he was the only suspect in a wife battering case. Now the pair of them are pining, hardly eating, clinging on to the bars of their respective cages and staring into each other's eyes. It's looking like I'll have to return him to the family home and hope that Juanita budgie learns to fight back!

Doreen and I had a really good win at the bowling today. We both played well picking up some really good spares along the way. Sadly, Jeff and Brian suffered an 8 - 0 defeat against George and Carol. I'm not gloating as we have to play them on Thursday!

We only managed to catch one World Cup match today. Brazil v Australia. Quite a good match, I thought, but Australia, although well good at defending, lost the plot when it came to attacking. Shame. Spain tomorrow and England on Tuesday, all good stuff!

No Sleep

I'm well wrecked. I went to bed around my normal time, two in the morning, read my book for half an hour or so and settled for sleep. I gave in at five o'clock after trying to count sheep and think go to sleep thoughts, the light went back on and I read my book for a little longer. Nothing helped and I was still awake when the children passed by on their way to school this morning!

Shona left for the airport around half eleven and phoned us earlier to say she was home and safe.

The photo competition closed a little while ago with the bread and butter pudding in the lead alongside a really nice black and white photograph of a little girl. Mine ended up in third place which was a little disappointing as it was in the lead for quite a few days. Out of thirty, not a bad result.

They Haven't A Hope In..............

That's what Brian bleated in my ear all the way through the first half, well, that is the polite version of it! At least they managed to get into the World Cup, did someone mention Scotland?!!

There wasn't much of a following in Antonio's Bar this afternoon. Just myself, Brian, Don, Sue and David. Shona chose sitting outside in the sun, Caron was there but not a football fan and young Charlotte was cheering for Spain and even brought her flag, made at school today. Her dad was gutted! Dave and I made quite a bit of noise when the goals were scored. Well done England!!

As it was Shona's last evening she treated us to a Chinese meal after the match. Chicken, bamboo shoots and chinese mushrooms, lovely! I was cheated out of my nightcap though, Bar Rincon was closed.........grrrr.

Duty Free

Well, 'im indoors went off to watch the Spain match whilst Shona and I caught the bus to Las Americas so that she could stock up on perfume and also pick up some ciggies for her sons. We both got free gifts in the smelly shop, I didn't do anything either! Quite nice really, a handbag sized hairbrush and mirror, just my sort of thing!

The bus driver had the radio on so I was able to listen to some of the match, didn't get all of the Spanish but at least I knew when they scored. GOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLL! A good result and I'm so glad they won.

My photo of Charlotte is still in joint first place in this week's photo competition. She's sharing the spot with a bread and butter pudding. I suppose some folk smile at different things!

A little trouble in budgieworld as Jose has started to bite poor Juanita again. She was covered in blood this morning and so I had to put him back into the holding cage. It was quite comical really as I couldn't catch him and received a couple of bites too. Bad budgie.

A Little Different

After slobbing around the apartment for most of the day, Brian, Shona and I decided to have a wander around the village later this afternoon. We sat on a bench by the harbour for an hour or so watching the world go by. You see some sights down there!!

We declared it 'beer time' around half five and stopped at the corner bar for a quick one.

The enterprising bar owner had a tv out on his terrace, well more like out on the street really, so we watched a little of the USA match.

I can't say I've ever watched a telly on the pavement before!

Poor Archie

I just had a text from my daughter, Sam, to let me know that Archie, her cat, died last night.

He was fourteen years old and having known him all these years, I feel quite sad. Bless him xx

Oh Dear!

We got the points but I can't really say that they were deserved. As soon as Owen was taken off the game rapidly went to rats. The second match of the day was much more interesting with Trinidad managing a nil - nil draw with only ten men!

I've named them 'The Jack Russells' and I'm really looking forward to seeing how England fare against them.

Oh, and my boy said it was hot!!

It's Off And Running...........

I managed to catch the second half of the Germany v Costa Rica match tonight. Germany scored an absolutely perfect goal which we all appreciated. It's a shame Costa Rica didn't win though.

A real blonde moment, I've been trying to work out the time difference and sussed that the Tenerife papers gave the times here, making us an hour behind Europe. All well and good until I walked into the bar and saw the teams walking out. I thought it was the start of the match, not half time, and was stupid enough to mention it! Luckily, Sue came in, was equally blonde and took the heat off!!

Topsie had a surprise today as Auntie Shona turned up to see him. He really loves her. In fact, I've just spotted him sneaking into her room and I hope he doesn't wake her as she didn't sleep last night. She was so worried that she would miss her plane she couldn't settle. No, I'm not going to whinge about aircraft, I promise!!

Time for bed, I need to wake up match fit to watch my boy, Beckham, lead out his team.

There They Are!

The first steps to winning the World Cup! How I wish!

I remember the year that they did win, forty years ago. My mate, Sheila, and I stood outside the telly shop in Accrington and watched the last goals go in the net. I'd just had my ears pierced and was scared of going home!

I didn't know too much about footie then but did go to watch Blackburn Rovers regularly, more for walking around the stands and chatting up the lads though. You could do that in those days. Stanley had been out of the league some four years.

Maybe this could be the year. If Stanley can do it so can England!!

Bowling

Well, I keep plodding on, getting fairly decent scores (all just a little short of the high score bracket today), but I must admit that it does reduce the interest level having a poorly partner. Doreen's back was playing up today so her daughter, Julie, stood in for her.

She hasn't been too well either and her mum has banned alcohol and ciggies, even though Julie is in her thirties. After managing to sneak a bottle of beer she followed me outside to pinch a cigarette or two. As if her mum didn't know!

I must admit that she did quite well really and we did have a chuckle. It was more a game of noughts and crosses.........miss, strike, miss, strike! Hopefully, the wooden spoon will be as nice as the proper prizes!

I had a peek at the Monday League Table whilst I was there. Last week's win for Martin and I brought us up a bit.

Almost forgot to mention...........'im indoors had a 225!!!

Who Drank All The Beer?

The best thing about a 'bit of a do' is having a bit of a gossip about 'who did what?', the following day. We were good kids, yet again, so happen our dotage is looming!

We did have a wander earlier and met up with a few folks who attended the reception but apart from Kevin, we all remembered going home!

Someone somewhere supped it all............Kevin can't get all the blame!

More Wedding Pics

I really like this one! I don't think I could have staged it better had I tried. Vic on the right, hear no evil, 'im indoors, speak no evil and Don, on the left, see no evil...........well funny!







Just an outside pic, to give you all a feel of the place!

A Wedding

We haven't been to a wedding since my son, Mark, married our Katie and it's a first for our life in Tenerife.

I met David before I came to live here so I do have a soft spot for him. They look happy enough!

All the best to David and Jayne xxx.

So Sad

The Canaries are suffering a crisis as thousands of immigrants are leaving their own countries and setting sail for the islands. These people were lucky but a small boat, which left Cape Verde on Christmas Day, was found drifting 70 miles off Barbados.

According to this week's newspaper report, 11 bodies were found with another 40 or so missing. It appears that they all paid 1,300 Euros for their chance of a life in a new land.

One young bloke, realising that he wouldn't survive, left a note for his family. I intended to quote it but it's just too sad.

Should you like to read about it look at -

http://www.losgigantesmarina.com/the_western_sun_tenerife/the_tenerife_sun_htm

El Dia de Canarias

Today, the thirtieth of May, is the official day of the Canary Islands and all the locals go off and celibrate big style. As you can see from the pic, the ladies wear their long stripey dresses which are made for them as children and are added to as they grow. Our village was really quiet though as the fun seemed to be happening up the mountain.

I did hope to catch the fireworks though.

Yippee!!

We never thought we would do it but Martin and I pulled out all the stops today and managed to beat one of the top teams, Jacquie and Tracey. All three games were close and we went into the third with one game each under our belts. I had to go first on the tenth frame, leaving Martin crossing his fingers behind me as we really needed strikes. I managed two and then my partner did the same!! 6 - 2 for us!

Another cause for celebration is that I don't ever have to watch that Last Train again. I puzzled my way through the last two episodes this evening becoming more confused by the fact that the sleeping time changed from fifteen to fifty years. I won't go on, only to add that it appears to be a cult show. Whatever.

I thought I should mention that Dave didn't get chained to any palm trees and no-one disgraced themselves. I was looking forward to a good old gossip too!

Sunday Bowling etc........

It wasn't too bad for Doreen and I as we managed two points but the men moved into third position. Not a bad place to be at this point in the season.

I had to suffer another two episodes of that train thingy. They spent Episode Three trying to catch a pig!! The whole world has died off apart from one pig, a large black cat and several horses! Acid rain is a major problem, the well runs dry, nobody seems to go to sleep but they manage to find enough petrol to run the van.

Having watched them having pork chops for tea we wander into Episode Four. I confess to doing a little wandering myself at that point and just remember that quiet Colin has become all masterful just before they set off into the sunset. Last two tomorrow, bet you can't wait!

Sensible Heads

As Jane and Dave are getting married on Friday they decided to have their hen and stag night last night.

Jane fancied dinner at Thomas's bar followed by a knees up in Los Gigantes whilst Dave opted for a few beers locally before catching taxis to Las Americas for curry.

I went for the meal but decided against the party and as Brian had chosen to stay in the village too, we met up for a nightcap at Bar Rincon. We never used to be so sensible!

At least I'm not suffering from a hangover and it will be good to hear about what went on!! Hopefully, no-one chained Dave to a palm tree!

The Last Train

A pretty grim six part drama and the sort of thing that I would prefer not to watch, however, 'im indoors is transfixed!

Some fifteen or so people, including a couple of kids, are sent to sleep on a train, in a railway tunnel and when they awake..........around fifteen years later, they find a dead world. That is apart from several wild dogs!!

Anyway, they've now found a van and after a scuffle, off they go to look for a bunker.

I'll update after Episode Two.

Walkies

We had a little wander around this afternoon because we seem to have been spending so much time in the apartment lately and I fancied a mooch.

It took us a couple of hours or so to get as far as the harbour (as in the pic), stopping off along the way to talk to folk and have the odd beer. We met up with young Charlotte at one point on her way to the beach with Sue, and didn't I get a massive cuddle!

It was such a lovely day, a bright blue sky and lots of sun and after sitting for a while by the beach we headed towards home. We might have managed it but for 'im indoors spotting a new bar which sold kebabs. All his dreams turned up at once!! We had takeaway and he really enjoyed it!

Short Fuses, Kind Hearts

I think it might be the hot weather which is making us all a little irritable at the moment or it could be other folk winding us up!

Understandably, Caron, wasn't her normal happy self tonight, as her job has been mega stressful this past few weeks. Lets hope it sorts itself out soon.

Her husband, David, really got into a strop when he went off to the Vodafone shop to complain that his mobile was playing up. It behaved beautifully whilst the bloke was checking it out but as Dave said, he wouldn't have taken it back had it been perfect. Anyway, it's now gone off to the factory to be sorted, leaving Dave without a mobile for at least two weeks.

That's where the kind heart came in. Vic, our latest five o'clock club member, went off home and brought his spare phone for Dave to use and then went back to get the charger!

Then it was my turn!! I decided to choose the DVD to watch this evening and could see by 'im indoor's face that it wasn't what he wanted to watch. After listening to his moans for five minutes I lost it and gave him what for. I came over to the computer whilst he found a nice, cheerful war film to watch. Would you believe that within five minutes he was fast asleep in his chair? It's as well that I didn't have a cricket bat!

Our Bradley

He emailed today to tell me that his ninth birthday, yesterday, was spoiled because he was well sick. He couldn't even eat his birthday cake!

He's my youngest nephew and is well cute! I know he had a new bike and was having a party today. I hope you are feeling better mate x.

Maybe it's something that is wandering around the north of England as Tully has been sick too. Not too much sleep for her Mum by the sounds of things.

Get well soon, both xxx

Such a Struggle

I had a problem with the last photo competition as the subject was 'Birds - Feathered Kind'. I entered a pic of my budgies but it wasn't too good a shot and failed miserably.

The next one is 'Wildlife'. Not too easy here in Tenerife.

Bank and Flaming Telefonica

Where was I? Stomping across the road to the bank, I think, where I found the same people forming another queue!

Some cash was missing from our account and, being in such a strop, I demanded answers. Poor chap, it wasn't his fault and no prizes for guessing who the culprit was. TELEFONICA!!

Now that we have set up a standing order for our monthly bill, they think that it's reasonable for them to take payments for three bills, all in the same month. Well, I suppose it gives us something to get our teeth into next week!

Post Office, Bank and Flaming Telefonica

I've had one of those weeks when whatever stands for 'red tape' in Tenerife has really made me lose my temper.

First on the list was to collect a parcel from the Post Office. The queue, as per normal, was out in the street and I resigned myself to a wait of around an hour or so. Not such a problem as I haven't much to do but the stupidity and bad management just makes my blood boil.

It's only open for a couple of hours during the morning with one dippy bloke in charge. As well as tending to the waiting folk it appears that he has to sort out all the mail to go on the post van. The Canarians don't do waiting as well as the English do, so there is quite a bit of shuffling to push into the front.........I stood my ground whilst matey stamped all his letters and sent them off to the lorry.

At last, there I was at the front and off he went to look for my package, holding on to my delivery note and my passport. The tall, young blonde behind me managed to attract his attention along the way. I wonder why? I also wonder how she managed to get her parcel and flounce out while I had to fill in a form, sign my name and give my passport number! I was still waiting to buy some stamps when he started to serve the next poor soul in the line and that was when I really lost it and shouted "Senor..........cinco sellos para Inglaterra, por favor".........!!

'im indoors told me to wind my neck in but I fumed all the way to the bank. Happen that can wait for another day!

My parcel was worth the wait. Mark, Katie and Tully sent me dvd's for my birthday. Thank you xxx

What Fun!!

We met up with Sue and Don at Antonio's Bar last night to watch the final of the Champions League between Barcelona and Arsenal. The atmosphere was brilliant with everyone cheering and shouting.

One of the Canarian chaps came in after the match, bringing a couple of bottles of champagne, which he shared out and then the fireworks started. Car horns sounded for a good hour.

They certainly know how to party around here!

Night Thoughts

You know when you wake up in the night and get one of those good ideas? Normally, it has left your head by the morning but, luckily, I remembered and now my 'messed up blog' is no more!!

Doreen's Back!

Well, maybe I should say that Doreen's back is better and we bowled together today for the first time in ages. We didn't win but we really enjoyed ourselves and I reckon that's what it's all about!

The two lads we played, Steve and Bob, moaned about their bad hangovers and said that we were in for a win.............four strikes each for them.............I don't think so! We did get a couple of points out of it though and quite a few laughs.

I'll see what Martin and I can do tomorrow!

Oh Heck, One Really Messed Up Blog!

All I wanted to do was change my ticker thing and now I seem to have messed up big time.

Maybe Tully might help or at least ask her Mum xx

A Week Went By

It's a week since I returned to Tenerife from my holiday in England and how have I spent it? Sunday and Monday were bowling days, both with grim results!

Tuesday was my birthday and was a good day. I had a really lovely card from my nephews, Dean and Bradley, who seem to think I'm a special Auntie. Thanks boys xx.

All back to my normal routine for Wednesday and Thursday. A little cleaning, an hour in the sun and five o'clock club.

Today was much the same but I did meet up with our friend, Vic, who lent me some DVD's, one of which is Brief Encounter. A lovely film which I plan to watch one afternoon along with some of my birthday choccies and a bottle of wine. I can't wait!

Another Photo Competition

The subject of this one, as you may imagine, is landscapes and my entry seems to be doing really well as far as the voting is concerned.

Not that I rate it very much myself but being a little short of time, I submitted it and fully expected it to flop. I'm in joint fourth place at the moment (45 entries) with voting due to end on Friday night. No chance of winning but at least I'm not last!!

I'm looking forward to the next one now and hope it's something that I can really get excited about. The winner chooses the topic and if it's the one in the lead at the moment it should be good!!

Happy Birthday Me!

I'm a birthday girl today!

Doreen gave me this lovely plant as she knows how much I enjoy them and I have a pile of cards to open later.

My main present was my trip to England and I did enjoy it.

Lucky me!

Happy Birthday Sophie

We can't believe that our Sophie is now two years old and it's time your Daddy sent us some new pics!

Have a lovely party....we'll think of you!

Lots of love from Grandad and me xxxxxxxxxxx

Accrington Stanley

Really, really brilliant. The boys are back in the league after 44 years. It appears that they earned themselves the freedom of the town of Accrington and do they deserve it!!

WELL DONE LADS!!!

So Sleepy!

If there had been a time difference between England and Tenerife, I would have blamed it on jetlag. I have been so tired since I returned home and keep nodding off in my chair. Hopefully, I'll keep awake long enough to do my blog which has been well neglected of late.

My first day of bowling, after my holiday, didn't go too well. Supersub, Carol, and I sort of lost 8 - 0. Well done to Charlotte and Natasha, a force to be reckoned with.

Brian and I had a treat on the way home and stopped for a Sunday roast. We both had lamb and it was lovely!

We sat outside Maria's bar for a couple of beers before home and ended up watching a little roadside entertainment. Antonio, the local cop, pulled a youngster speeding past on his scooter and was in the middle of writing out a ticket when the lad's mates came back and joined him. Stupid or what?! One kept his mouth shut but the other just went on and on causing Antonio to radio for back up and earning himself a 450 euro fine. Speeding, no papers and mouthing off!
As these kids race around day and night annoying most folks it was nice to see and we all gave Antonio a cheer! There is a God!

Time To Go Home

I'm all packed and ready for my trip home. I just hate the last day of a holiday. All you do is mark time, especially when there is a plane involved!

Thank you to Sam for really looking after me. Jamie, Martin and Maisie, I'll really miss you xx.

Loads of love to Hazel and to all my other mates.

Bye Cornwall until the next time.

On The Buses

I really enjoy the bus trip to Plymouth as it follows the coast to small Cornish villages such as Crafthole, Portwrinkle and Sheviock and the views are superb. The primroses are all in bloom and some trees are blossoming. The sun shone too! Why do I live in Tenerife?

On reaching Torpoint the bus boarded the ferry for a ten minute trip, over to the City of Plymouth. All this for £4.20 return.

I had a wander around BHS, Debenhams, TKMaxx (I don't know why as it's an awful place), The Early Learning Centre (Sam asked me to get something for Maisie) and finally, Virgin Megastore, also known as the noisy shop.

I met up with Hazel at lunchtime and we treated ourselves to curry and chips at the First and Last, one of our old haunts. The afternoon flew by as we nattered about our families, old times when we worked together and the things that used to make us laugh back then.

She walked back to the Bus Station with me and we both cried. It was awful watching her walk away............my bestest friend in all the world. Love her to bits x

A Grey Day

How awful! I waited all day for the sun to show it's face so that I could take a pic of Looe Island and what do I get...flippin' wires! Never mind, cropping might help at a later date.

Two and a half sleeps to go and it will be time to go home. I've had such a lovely time here with Sam and the children. I've also enjoyed spending time with my mates but I reckon it will be good to be back in Tenerife with 'im indoors.

I'm off on the bus to Plymouth tomorrow to meet up with Hazel. We never did get our night out but will spend the afternoon together. Nothing better than a good gossip!

Back to School!

Jamie and Martin went back to school today after their Easter break. Maisie had play school too so it was a quiet morning for Sam and I.

We had a nice weekend. A trip to St Austell on Saturday where I bumped into a couple of friends of mine from years ago.......John and June. Actually, it's been a little like that this time as I've seen loads of people I never expected to. Another Sunday which I won't mention!!

It was really pleasant walking to school this afternoon as the sun came out, lovely warmth!

We are having a prowl around Matalan tomorrow and I've planned to go to the pub during the evening to say cheerio to my mates.

It's so scary how the time goes!

Looe, Cornwall

We had a lovely day out in Looe today. I like the arty crafty type shops, the sound of the seagulls and just looking at all the boats in the harbour. It was so good to be back there.

Sadly, I have a funeral to go to, tomorrow. Someone I have known for well over twenty years died this week and at least I'm here to pay my respects.

On a lighter note. Nine year old, Martin, was giving his mum, my daughter, Sam, grief and she gave him a telling off. I was trying to keep out of it until he turned to me and said 'You can still ground her, Nana'!! It was worth a try!

Hello Grandad

It's pretty difficult to get three energetic children to sit in one place and wave to Grandad but I did manage it with some degree of success. Unfortunately, Maisie still had her thumb in her mouth!!

We had a trip into Plymouth today which gave me chance to view the new buildings in the city centre. Only one thing to say really.........gross!

It was fish and chips for supper followed by Martin's choice of DVD, 'Five Children and It'.

Easter Weekend

It's really lovely being back in England and I've enjoyed the Easter break.

My flight was uneventful and because of strong tail winds, I arrived in Exeter an hour early. Sam was there to pick me up and got me to Cornwall in record time.

After a lazy Saturday we decided to celebrate by having a couple hours down the local pub. Sam and her friend, Baz, cracked open the tequila which I brought with me, courtesy of Dave and Caron, whilst I had a brandy or three!!

I'm saying nothing about Sunday!

I Have My Tickets!

I'm off to England tomorrow! First Exeter Airport and then to Cornwall for a couple of weeks.

That lovely view will be denied to me though, as I arrive in the middle of the night! I probably wouldn't have looked anyway!! Scary things planes, as I've said before, and it isn't natural to be up there!

Anyway, I'm travelling on a First Choice cheapie, which I'm quite happy with, as the last few times I've felt quite safe. No grub though.

It appears that the children have plans for me. I'm going banger racing at some point, then bowling and Martin is giving me his electric blanket!

I rang Hazel today and we're off on a night out..........it's going to be fun!

Wow....Easter in England!!!

I went off to England last October to meet my littlest grandaughter, Tully, and had a really lovely week. We spent time in Blackpool, had a brilliant meal with black puddings and then I managed a few days with my brother and his family. It was all wonderful.

It's looking like, not confirmed yet though, that I might be off to Cornwall on Friday to see my daughter, who I haven't seen for almost a year and my other three grandchildren who I haven't seen for around eighteen months.

I'm trying really hard not to get excited, just in case it all falls through but how lovely will it be to give Jamie, Martin and Maisie loads of cuddles?!

Another thing that I really want to do is catch up with my bestest friend in all the world........our Hazel. I love her to bits.

I won't have time to travel north but maybe in October! I'm such a happy puppy!!!!

Mike...............and Melvyn

I managed to watch Friday's episode of 'Corrie' earlier today and wasn't it sad?!!

It put me in mind of my Nana, who lived until she was 81, but, to put it politely, did get a little 'forgetful' in her later years. Being in a memory mode, I also remember watching the first ever 'Corrie' along with my Mum, Nana and my little brother. Now I'm old!

Anyway, it's bye to Mike and welcome home to our Melvyn. He had his new gasket thingy, new cylinder head, bad breath sorted and off he goes..........another year's MOT........and he's frisky!!!

Sunday Bowling League

Jeff and 'im indoors played really well and beat George and Carol 8 - 0!! Brian had his first ever clean game. My Super Sub this week was a former Sunday Bowler, Carole, and didn't she play well!

Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said of me as I had a series of splits in the middle game which really threw me. I looked at the screen, when I was about to throw on the tenth, and realised that I'd had five in a row. It can't happen again I thought but it did! Anyway, as there was an argument about Carole's handicap we aren't sure if we had a draw or lost. All will be revealed in the course of time. I really miss my mate Doreen.

I'm Not Too Sure................

The voting ended for the photo competition I entered, at midnight yesterday. I didn't do too badly and finished up in the top ten. At least I had two votes which was better than the 18 or so who didn't have any votes at all!! The winning pic was of a hang glider with six votes, second, a lovely red parrot (a brilliant shot which got my vote) and third with three points, a phone box.

The winner gets to choose the subject for the next competition and Margaret put forward 'Anything relating to transport'.

I spotted this tender today. I quite like the reflections but as I have another couple of weeks to go before entering up to four photos...............I think I'll sleep on it.

A Brave Little Girl

One of Charlotte's teachers noticed that she was having a little trouble seeing the board, so it was a visit to the optician for her!

We all felt for her as it isn't nice having to wear glasses but she was so excited and went off to choose her frames quite happily. Little did her mum know that she was about to be paying out for the latest designer 'Barbie' specs!

Everyone told her how lovely she looked and as I promised to put her photo on the computer, here she is. Mum and Dad too!!

Monday Bowling League

I got my dander up!! Martin and I had to play these two lads which wasn't a problem until I only scored eight on the first frame. I could see them wink at each other and imagined their thoughts. "An old grannie, we'll beat her"!!!

I didn't mention it to Martin, who after all is a young lad himself, but I think he was spurred on by my efforts and we beat them well easy on the first game. I had my best score for ages, 172!

Another victory on the second but we lost the last by six pins. Not to worry, a nice 6 - 2 win for us. Give the boys their due, they came over after and shook my hand. Not such an 'old grannie' after all.

Sunday Bowling League

We had such an awful awakening this morning as half a dozen high powered motor bikes congregated under my bedroom window, revving like fury, or should I say the riders were! It scared the living daylights out of me and I was standing up before I knew I was awake. By the time I had my head together, 'im indoors was shouting a few choice words out of the window. Luckily, they cleared off..........all this before seven am.

Poor Melvyn failed his M.O.T. on Friday, because of his bad breath, so Sue and Don gave us a lift to the bowling this afternoon. Not too much to report there as Brian and Jeff lost 6 - 2 and Super Sub, Jane, and I just about managed to take two points away from George and Carol. Well done Jane x.

My usual partner, Doreen, was there to support us but she did get a little telling off half way through for her constructive criticism!

Barca v Real Madrid

I really cannot believe how biased the referee was during tonight's match. I'm sure he was the brother of the Barca team's Manager!!

Penalty, never, he wasn't even a good actor either! I'm so glad that I didn't stay at the bar to watch the game as I made so much noise. I am so angry!

The man of the match was Casillas, such good goal keeping.
Real, down to ten men, scored a lovely goal and it ended up as a draw.

But, there shouldn't have been a penalty, there shouldn't have been a man sent off, Beckham shouldn't have had a yellow card................best I shut up and go to bed!!

Three Ladies. A Day Out........Part Two

We moved on, Sue, on the left, still fuming and Ann and I still chuckling!!

It was a safe decision to have lunch at our usual Italian Restaurant but I did make sure that I knew how much the bill was before fetching out the kitty purse!! Ann also played safe and had a white wine!

Bowling was next on the agenda. Sue won the overall score but I'm sure it was because she was picturing ten little waiters at the end of the lane!

Almost time for home but as we have quite a steep hill to climb to the bus stop we normally call into the bar half way up for a relaxing drink. Using Spanish, we ordered our drinks from the waiter, paid the bill and left the bar just in time to see our bus going down the road!! Ann and I both had the same thought...........back to the bar!!

Seeing the raised eyebrows of the waiter, I pointed down the road and said 'La Gua Gua'. In a broader Lancashire accent than mine he replied 'oh, you've missed your bus'. The little tinker!!
All that wasted effort speaking Spanish!! I haven't laughed like that for ages and Ann had to wipe her tears with her bowling socks! Total of buses missed.............three...........but it was such a good day with memories I'll treasure x

Three Ladies. A Day Out........Part One

Sue, Ann and I set off on the bus to Las Americas this morning and what a silly day we had!!

We caught the bus around nine thirty which got me a few funny looks as everyone knows that I don't do 'mornings'.

Anyway our first mission was to check out Torviscas Market, which was teeming with folk of all nationalities. It was a struggle to get to see what was being sold but we managed to get around three quarters of it, clutching onto our bags for dear life!

All in all it was thirsty work so we wandered off to find refreshments. Luckily, or so we thought, there was a bar nearby with a pleasant terrace, perfect! We settled ourselves in the sun feeling like we knew how to live and ordered our drinks. An hour or so later having discussed women's things, chuckled about the state of some folk passing by (always a favourite) we asked for the bill. Being too vain to wear my specs, I just glanced at it, thought I saw five euros and paid it out of our kitty purse.

Sue was livid and it was so funny! Off she went, bill in hand, to complain. Five euros for a wine and soda!! She didn't get very far but ten out of ten for trying and at least the rest of the customers would have checked theirs before paying. I won't tell you what Sue called that waiter during the course of the day but as you might expect, his ears would have been burning. Sue kept the receipt and I think I may buy a frame for it!!

Be warned............avoid La Brochette.

No Bowling

I had to pull a sickie today as I've had some awful ulcers in my mouth this week. They have been so painful that I didn't sleep much last night. The plan was that Julie, Doreen's daughter, would take her mum's place but I sort of blew that. Never mind I'm sure it will all come right in the end.

Brian went off around one o'clock, leaving me at home to sulk. He phoned me around five to tell me that our Melvyn had broken down on one of the TF1's sliproads. It was all quite comical really as Brian's phone battery died, he found the car charger but then ran out of credit! Forever calm in a crisis, I rang for the grua and got him sorted! It's law here to wear a yellow jacket and have triangles in front and behind the vehicle. (You also have to carry a first aid kit and a thingy to break the windows). I would have loved to have seen him standing there looking like a council worker!!

Anyway, Melvyn is home and, hopefully, his mending mate will be around tomorrow to sort out his problems. He is carting on a bit, bless him.

The Strike Is Over!!

I've been long distance support for Valerie in Canada during the three week strike at the Health Authority there.

Having three sons to support and no pay during this time, life hasn't been too good for her. She was required to do five hours of picketing each day and sent me this pic of some of the supporters. Have a look at http://www.opseu.org/

Anyway, all seems a little better today as it's back to work on Monday.

What Will I Do Now?!!

My friend, Doreen, rang today to tell me that she is unable to bowl on Sunday and probably won't manage it for some time, if ever. She has had trouble with her back for a while but being a brave soul, has soldiered on. The doctor told her that she was aggravating it too much with the bowling, hence the decision.

We have played Sunday League together for three years or so and I can't imagine having a different partner. To be honest, I'm really gutted. She is a very true friend and also a person that I care about.

It needs some thought.

Our George

I was pleased to hear that George Best is having an airport named after him. It appears that Belfast City Airport will have a change of name in May this year after a commemorative ceremony.
It would have been George's sixtieth birthday. I think it's really brilliant and I'm glad that his talent is being honoured.

Poor Mums

I've never really noticed before but on checking my diary earlier, I realised that Mother's Day in England falls on the same day that the clocks change.

So much for being pampered.........we've all lost an hour of sleep!!

Having asked 'im indoors when Mother's Day was I was informed that it was nine months after Father's Day.......ummmm?!

Check out http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/info/bst.htm

Sunday Bowling League

Oh dear, it's not looking good for Doreen and I as we have managed to work our way down to the bottom of the league! We won our first game today by around 35 pins but lost the second. When I realised that we were so far behind on the last that we could never recover I whispered in Doreen's ear 'score low and keep our handicap safe'.

I wish I could practice what I preach. Trying my best not to knock many down, I managed to sort out a big split, with a perfect ball, and then get a strike! You should have seen the look on Doreen's face!

My Entry

I mentioned, the other day, that my favourite forum was having a photo competition.

The subject was 'Red' and here's my entry.

St Patrick's Day

St Patrick's Day has rolled around again. Most of the 5 o'clock club go off to Playa Las Americas to celebrate the occasion and as it's also Caron's birthday they really go for it. She's 40 this year so I expect she will have a wicked hangover on Saturday.

We have decided to give it a miss. I really need a day in the house as I've been quite busy this week. Well, busy for me!!

My first mission was to change my Spanish bank. The one I was with was completely useless so I've now moved to La Caixa. They seem to have a good reputation and were very friendly. The best of it is that I don't have to worry about the dreaded phone bill as they were able to set up a standing order. Phew!

Next was a parcel to collect from the Post Office or Correos as it's called here. It closes at eleven in the morning so the queue is always so long. It took me two attempts!! Nothing is ever easy here.

Top needed more heart worm tablets so another wait at the vet's, yet another queue in the pet shop for budgie stuff so it's a good job I used to live in Cornwall and learned to live with 'd'rectly'!!

Sunday Bowling League

Four unhappy bunnies today! I was useless as were Jeff and Brian. Doreen had a bad back and almost declared herself unfit but carted on and got better scores than all of us! My excuse was 'I haven't been well, you know'!! Never mind, we do have some fun.

I'm still having troubles with the software for my new dvd burner. I did think I'd solved the problem by converting my files before burning but it all goes to rats after an hour or so. I need an extra brain cell or three to get my head around it but, I won't give in! When I bought this computer just over a year ago the bloke said that there was enough memory to last me my lifetime. Now that I have to raid the euro coin piggy bank for that purpose, I'm feeling pretty insulted. Either he thought I was in my dotage or a bit dim!

My favourite forum is starting a photography competition soon. We have a month to come up with something spectacular, no prizes, just for the hell of it. Photography is one of my passions so I'm eagerly awaiting the topic. I'll be doomed if it's Lancashire streets or a winter morning so I'm hoping for flora and fauna or a nice landscape. I'll blog my entry and hope for comments.

Happy Birthday Valerie

My mate, Valerie, has a birthday today and I send her all my best wishes.

I've mentioned her on previous blogs and if you remember, she lives in Canada, suffers with loads of snow for half of the year and is a teaching professor.

Life isn't too good for her at the moment as there is a strike going on within her area of employment. Not too good on a picket line at minus 20!!

I'm well proud of her though, bringing up three young sons on her own and remaining cheerful, she's doing ok!

Happy birthday, love, make it a good year..............xxxxxxxxxxxx

Memory Lane

We all seemed to be remembering the past at five o'clock club today. As, Sue, Don, Brian and myself are of a similar sort of age, we were recalling when we first had television. The general opinion was the late fifies. How old are we!!

Sue and I went on to talk about the mini skirts and the naughty things we did as teenagers. David, in his thirties, was well shocked, he didn't think that we may have had a life when we were young. Mind you, I admit that when I was his age, I did think that the over fifties must have always been boring.

We moved on to childhood holiday memories. Sue told us about her Dad taking her and her siblings to Butlins every year, Brian went to his Gran's farm and if I was really lucky, we had a few days at Blackpool.

I'm a little sentimental about Blackpool. My late husband, Andy, and I, had some great fun there when we were 'courting', and we took our children there a few times. It was especially nice that our son took me there last October, along with his family.

Oh, well, back to the present!

Sick Week!

First I go and get bitten by those pesky mosquitos and then I develop a really bad cold! I expect a bloke would call it 'flu!! I tried to sleep it off today, hence the reason I'm wide awake now.

We watched the footie earlier and my Spanish team, Real Madrid, was knocked out of the Championship. A bit of a blow as Barca managed to get through. Who will I support now?

I haven´t mentioned things like budgies, daffodils, dvd burners or poinsettias lately, so here´s an update.

After speaking to my daughter, earlier in the week, who has a budgie breeding friend, Carol, it seems that the cere on the female goes very brown when it´s nesting box time. Looking at Juanita, I reckon we may have those easter eggs! Carol recommends some egg meal to feed her up a bit. That´s a good one to ask for in Spanish! I know eggs are huevos so I´ll work from there.

It´s a no go with the daffodils. For the second year running I just have leaves. Such a disappointment.

As for the dvd burner..........grrr. A mate of mine helped me to install it and gave me some software. I managed to ´burn´, if that´s the term, a file today and it worked wonderfully, but that was it. I´ve spent ages trying to repeat the process with other files and can´t understand what I´m doing wrong. Back to the drawing board and I refuse to be beaten!

My poinsettia!! Still going strong and it´s March! Well, I suppose I have to have some success somewhere!

Mosquitos

I awoke around five this morning feeling really itchy but after a minute or so of trying to doze off again the alarm bells rang in my head. A flippin' mozzie was around!

They seem to really love me but, unfortunately, I'm allergic so it was panic stations. Find the spray, find the cream and then I heard a mumbled enquiry from 'im indoors. Guess what he said? `They are about early´, I reckon I should have asked them to turn up after seven!!

I´m in a bit of a mess though. I have several bad bites on both of my arms and my right hand looks like someone has blown up a rubber glove!

It was a bit of a struggle bowling today but I did manage to score well. Martin and I were outclassed though and lost 8 - 0. Doreen and I had to put in a score yesterday so nothing much to mention there either. Happen I´ll have more to say next week.

The Sun Is Back!

We had a lovely day. The sun turned up and Tenerife was Tenerife again, even though the snow is still well visable on Mount Teide.

I decided that my savings pot was healthy enough to have a mooch around the computer shop this afternoon and found that I had enough dosh to be able to buy a DVD burner and 25 discs! More on that in a minute.

Casa Chrissy is within a stone's throw of the shop and so we met up with our Donna and enjoyed an English breakfast. I'm suffering a little with sunburn now as it was so nice to be warm again!
Lots of aftersun cream and I'll be fine tomorrow.

Back to the other type of burner. It's installed but doesn't seem to work. I'm fine with software but my knowledge of computer stuff doesn't seem to run to the hardware. Never mind, maybe I'll find a 'man who can' tomorrow. Hopefully, before 'im indoors and I come to blows!!

A Peaceful Interlude

It's quite peaceful now after the last 36 hours or so of storms and torrential rain. I have hated the wind since I was a small child and stayed awake most of last night, fretting. At one point all I could hear was the smashing of glass and patio furniture blowing around terraces and balconies. Our shutters were slamming about and along with the sound of the rain beating down it was all a bit horrid.

We did manage to get to five o'clock club though, all wrapped up, complete with my M & S brolly, which didn´t get turned inside out! There´s quality for you!

There I was quietly enjoying my beer when this old Canarian chap slipped on the wet floor tiles and head butted me in the middle of my back!! He was fine as I sort of broke his fall, but I´m in such pain. My right arm is really sore and it´s hard to type. Why am I always in the way?!!

Still, if I hadn´t have been the poor chap would have hit the corner of the bar. Not a nice thought.

If my blog is a bit neglected you all know why!