Hot, Hot, Hot!!

We are all suffering at the moment as the temperature is going off the scale.

I was well amused to see that the old blokes had moved their chairs and tables from outside the bar.

In the shade and the card games continued. Good for them.

My New Mouse

I've been struggling with my old one for ages as the cursor kept wandering all over the place. It was optical but not wireless and it made life a little uncomfortable with all the reaching.

After getting well cross with it yesterday I went off to the computer shop and bought this posh jobbie. Would it flippin' work, would it 'eck. I was working up to taking it back but didn't want to appear stupid if it was something simple so I've been festering and moaning all day.

Thankfully, we met up with Bill and Muriel today and they have the same thing. Their son Paul is the whizz kid in their house and after I'd grumped for a little while Muriel got fed up enough to ring him. It just required a little tweaking with the base connect and the mouse connect.

Done and dusted now and I'm happy, optical and wireless. Thank goodness that I didn't go and moan in the shop and thanks to Paul x.

Family History

I spoke to my brother, Ray, the other evening and he happened to mention that Auntie Mavis's daughter had started researching her Family History and wondered how far I'd got.

To be honest I haven't looked at it for a while so I've had to clear out my desk and get my papers into some kind of order. I reckon that we must be second cousins as our grandmothers were sisters..........gets well confusing!

I think that Cheryl must be around eight or nine years younger than I am as I remember holding her when she was a baby. Nice to be in contact and to share. I'm getting the bug again!

The Brain

We were stupid enough to disconnect everything from our television today to give our unit a really good clean and a general tidy. We now have DVD's at one side and Playstation games at the other with video tapes stored in another cupboard. It all looks really good and I wish I'd done it ages ago but I can't seem to get all the electrical stuff to work

Eight years ago, when I worked, I could connect several monitors to several VCR's including editing equipment without batting an eyelid. Now I can't work out how to include the DVD player into the home system. It just shows how retirement can affect the brain.

My plan for tomorrow is to connect the DVD player straight into the TV. Connect the VCR into the second scart on the TV. BBC box into the VCR's second scart and hopefully I'll be cooking on gas.

All in all I wish I'd left it mucky!

A Mushroom

I've felt like one this week as the cord on our shutter broke and I was plunged into darkness. I really enjoy sitting out on the balcony for a couple of hours during the afternoon reading my book but I couldn't get out there. So frustrating!

We went up to Adeje on Wednesday as the big DIY Superstore normally stocks them but as we couldn't find them in their normal place we checked with Information. Even though she could speak English she couldn't understand what we were on about so we left, defeated.

I checked with the firms that do these sort of repairs but they were charging more than an arm and a leg so it was back to the drawing board. Spanish head on I called into the local ironmonger type shop at the end of our road. Brian hung back as he thought I would never explain what I wanted but she understood me perfectly. Even complemented me on my Spanish! I got what I wanted for three Euros and after telling her that I'd toured Adeje she said
'Playa San Juan' where else?!

Good for her and I now have light!

Those Poor Boys

It breaks my heart to watch the news these days. Young lads hardly older than my eldest grand-daughter. Their families having to go through this awful tragedy.

It is now coming close to the death total of the Falklands Conflict which, on reflection, was a short, sharp shock and not this long drawn out suffering. At least the Falklands was a war to help our own folk, not to be stuck in some foreign land without adequate resources.

I keep seeing the placards 'Lest We Forget'. They will, they do.

As for my contribution.
At the going down of the sun,
And in the morning, we will remember them

Messenger

I've been without MSN Messenger for a couple of weeks because it kept coming up with an error message every time I tried to log on.

Paul, a friend of mine, tried his best to sort it out but had to give up in the end. I so hate being beaten and was determined to stay at my computer tonight until it was sorted.

It was all to do with deleting the Windows Live Contacts folder which I did a few days ago without success but I hadn't realised that there were hidden files too. I found the little blighters earlier and within two minutes I had my Messenger back.

Another learning curve and I'm feeling pretty pleased with myself. As it's almost two in the morning I'd better go to bed!

A Rare Night Out

Allison's phone camera doesn't seem to cope too well with night shots but as I didn't take my own camera these are all I've got. I pinched them off Facebook too!!

Terry and Helen have decided that life might be better for them in England. We've been mates since we first came here eight years ago and have had a few laughs along the way. We were chucked out of a bar one night by the Police which is just one of our tales. Not our fault I might add as the barman didn't have a licence to serve beer! Loads of bowling stories too.


Good luck to both. You will be missed xx

Going Bananas

Tina gave me a bag of fruit the other day as there was far to much for her and Neil to get through. I made an apple pie and ate some of the pears and bananas but the rest was well by it's sell by date this morning. I'd just bagged it up ready for the bin when my door bell rang...........Alicia delivering a bag of BANANAS. I hate to refuse them as she's such a good neighbour. One in and one out and it didn't end there. Another two bags turned up during the course of the day and I now have enough to feed a hundred monkeys!!

I'm also going BANANAS with Brian this evening. I so hate fans as I reckon that they chuck out more hot air than cold. He has one going in the lounge and the ceiling fan spinning in the bedroom. I'm baking and can't wait until he goes to sleep.

Some good news as I had a letter from the hospital today to say that I have the all clear on my mammogram. I might have a brandy to celebrate.

Michael Jackson

I didn't think that I'd ever been a fan of his until I watched a tribute to him earlier this evening. Then I remembered about his Motown days and his early years. Having reached fame at the tender age of six you can't help but wonder what that did to his mind.

I sort of gave up on him when he decided to be a white black man and I'm not about to do the RIP bit as I'm not quite sure if he deserves it. He had the looks and charm and should have been proud of his heritage.

I'll thank him for 'Ben' and leave it at that.

Absolutely Ridiculous

Totally unfair..........I could go on and on.

It's over two years since I last went to Cornwall and as Brian knows that I'm pining a little he coughed up two hundred quid for a return flight. I'm restricted as the only airline that flies into Exeter is Thomson/First Choice so off I went to check out their website.

Had I been able to go on Tuesday the 25th June it would have been 220 Euros but it almost doubles next week and reaches five hundred pounds in October. Why?...........same plane, same amount of petrol and schools don't break up for another three or four weeks.

Not one to give in easily I tried alternative routes. Going into Gatwick means the hurry up bus down to Plymouth. I don't mind that but it meant that I'd end up sitting around in London in the middle of the night on my own. Not something which I'd like to experience. Next option was to fly to Madrid and as I get forty percent off flights to the mainland it was worth a look. Another no go because there aren't any connecting flights.

Oh well, there's always next year.

Three Little Piggies

We went for our eat as much as you like Indian/Chinese meal tonight and I'm well full! Not quite the way I'd like to have a meal but it was very tasty and we enjoyed our evening.

I would recommend it but doubt that I'll go again. Brian and Shona would!

Our Week

It's amazing how quickly a week can speed by. It doesn't seem two minutes since Thursday when Bernard and I went off to the airport and now we are staring Tuesday in the face!

We don't seem to have done much either. A frantic afternoon last Friday, which Clio has reported on. Saturday was a walk around the village and a meal in Antonio's. It was Corpus Cristi on Sunday and we viewed the flower carpets that the locals make in celebration followed by Sunday dinner.

Shona fancied doing a little duty free shopping this afternoon so we caught the bus to Las Americas. I bumped into three of my old bowling mates which was nice and we had a bit of a catch up. Shopping done and back to San Juan to meet up with Brian and have a beer.

Tomorrow is going to be lazy as we are all going to Callao Salvaje in the evening for an Indian/Chinese meal. There´s a new restaurant which does both and you can eat all you want for eight euros each. We´ve heard good reports so it´s worth a go.

It looks like Wednesday might take care of itself!

Una Nueva Hervidora Electrica

In other words a new kettle. We've done well with electrics for ages (touch wood) but our old kettle died this morning. I must admit to casting spells on it as I hated it. Brian insisted that it was only a year old but I'm sure that it was coming up to it's fifth birthday. Anyway, I made sure that it ended up in the bin before he decided to hide it away in case it could be mended!

We went off to the shop this evening and he chose a two cup variety............his logic was that there is only two of us! I agree but it was more of a camping kettle than a home thingy. I did try to tell the lady that he was Scottish and it might take some time but, thankfully, she was on my side. Ten percent off and I got what I wanted.

Unfortunately it's not very photogenic!

Bits and Bats

Caron and Charlotte are off to England tomorrow to visit family. Caron will be back home next week but Charlotte is staying with her Nan for the school holidays. I had a look in my 'go to England purse' and found a couple of quid in change for her to buy some sweeties. It will be strange not seeing her for two months but I hope she has fun.

Shona arrives on Thursday and I've been desperate to offload a computer desk which Mimi left with me when she went off to Belgium a few weeks ago. After a couple of weeks without interest three folk wanted it all at once! As Yvonne asked first she got it. I didn't want any money for it as it was given to me and now Shona can find her bed!

Half an hour after the desk moved on Bill turned up. He has a golf shop and organises golfing holidays. Someone had left a brand new pair of Nike trainers in his mini-bus and as he didn't want to throw them out he thought of Brian. A perfect fit and they take up far less room than a desk!

Mia Allison

As you may have guessed from all this cooking stuff I've been doing lately, Brian has been working. It's a bit of a guilt trip really as I feel bad when he comes home and doesn't have a meal in front of him. Lancashire blood will out I suppose. Tonight's offering was beef, onions and mushrooms with sliced potatoes and I was quite proud of it. The trouble is that I never enjoy my own cooking and can't wait until the dishes are washed and away. That feeling doesn't apply when he cooks though. It's a daunting task then............I wish I could find the pic of my son wading through a whole kitchen worth of dishes!

Still on the cooking theme as our Shona comes out next week and could have to bear with some of my experiments. She'll be fine as Bar San Juan does a good breakfast!

We had an email from Brian's brother George today and he has a grand-daughter...........Mia Allison. A lovely name and we send loads of good wishes and lots of love xxx

Hot

It has been quite a cold winter with many windy spells. Not too much rain but I'd rather have that than the wind.

During the last few days the temperature has soared and our walk along the seafront was a little painful today. Far too hot for Clio.

We had thought that the filming for 'The Clash of the Titans' had finished but we spent half an hour watching them out at sea. One poor chap was swimming around for ages and then they set the explosives off. I must have jumped six feet into the air!

Well, as Clio would say, it keeps the oldies amused!

Help!!

Caught out by a Bank Holiday yet again! It wasn't too much of a problem as we had food and stuff in but we'd neglected to put our 'bill money' into La Caixa Bank and you all know what a headache it is when the telephone bill isn't paid.

Brian came up with a cunning plan to save me rushing there first thing on Monday morning..........the Cashpoint! We've never paid money into it before so it was a bit of a learning curve. I know I'm getting old now that a machine can floor me. We weren't doing too bad until a queue started to form and I got a little flustered and it was well hot in the cubby hole. My turn for a cunning plan and I invited the next in line to give us a hand. What a nice man!

That done, we walked down to Bar San Juan to sit with Terry, Helen, Paul and Bill and Muriel. It seems that we had been spotted and they had been timing us. Lots of amusement at our expense............I'll get my own back in the course of time.

Fish Pie

Tonight's culinary delight was fish pie. I would have preferred mash but as Brian insisted on pastry I bought a pack of the frozen variety.

I over did the eggy bit so it was a little too brown on top but it tasted ok.

More practice for this one I think and I should have it right for when Shona visits next month. Who's betting that she doesn't like fish?

Our Day Out

Charlotte and I went off on our school trip yesterday. We went up to Pino Alto which is way up in the North of the Island. It took around two hours to get there and I was well amazed to find it was pouring with rain and well chilly. As you can see the Spanish manage a fiesta whatever the conditions.

Whilst the children were singing and dancing us grown-ups were taken on a tour of the village. The road reminded me of when I lived in Cornwall as it just went up and up. One poor chap was gasping as he arrived at the top. All that just to go back down again! We were shown this mine and from what I could gather it was something to do with bringing fresh water out of the rock. Lots of herbs and stuff to collect, not that I knew one from the other but it did smell nice.

This was another viewpoint which was pointed out. All to do with the pine trees that grow here.

A nice day out but I must admit that it was good to get back into the sun again. Little Lottie's birthday party to go to and then I escaped to a child free zone!

Well Done Burnley!

I'm more of a Blackburn Rovers fan but it's really nice to see Burnley hit the Premiership.

I'd love to be in the Stop and Rest on Friday night to hear the banter. Ray v Dennis! At least it might be a little different from the conversation that they've had for the last thirty years or so! Go for it Dennis.........

Scrummy!

Dave taught me how to make beer batter a little while ago and we decided to have a go at fish and chips tonight. To be honest, the photo doesn't do it justice as it was really good.

I wish I'd remembered the mushy peas though!

Well, I Went!

It was 'Mammogram Day' yesterday and my friend, Tina, offered to drive me to the hospital as it's a little off the beaten track. It was kind of her as I must admit to being a little nervous and was glad of her company.

The first hurdle was my lack of a medical card which I fully expected and I was asked to wait whilst my letter and passport were taken elsewhere for checks. It did cross my mind to bail out then but I braved it out and waited. Ten minutes or so later I was taken into a small office and had to answer a questionnaire. Quite funny really but with my Spanish and the receptionist's English we managed it. She did seem quite amused when I told her that both my children were bottle fed..........happen my Lancashire/Spanish confused her!

That done I was sent outside to wait again. It's hard enough going for these sort of things in England when you know why you have to wait but neither Tina nor I knew what the plot was. Ten minutes later they shouted my name........Hoonie as they pronounce it here.........and it was done and dusted.

Back to San Juan and a much needed beer in Bar Antonio!

It Gets Worse

Sue and Don brought us a few presents back from their trip to the UK including three PS2 games. Nothing will get done from now on as we are back gaming and taking 'turns'. Thank you both xx.

It was after four o'clock before we moved this afternoon for our daily walk with Clio and the first thing we came across was the funeral of that poor woman who was murdered on Tuesday. The Church Square was packed with mourners and we stood with them for a little while before walking down towards the harbour to check out the state of play with the filming. Nothing much going on so we sat outside the Silver Bar for a quick beer and were in conversation with Wendy and Nigel when an ambulance with lights flashing turned into the side street.

I must admit that I didn't think too much of it, even when I saw the Paramedic standing in the main road and using his mobile. As we got up to leave we were told that Eric had passed away and they were waiting for the police and a doctor to turn up. His wife, Pauline, has to wait until tomorrow before their children can get here.

How much more does this village have to go through?

Such Goings On!

We were all a little shocked to hear that a woman was murdered just up the road from us yesterday afternoon. It was a little more personal when we found that it was the sister of the local garage owner who we know quite well. It seems that her ex-husband did the deed but apart from a short report from the Guardia Civil, that's all we know.

They have been doing odd things with strange boats down at the harbour all week. It's all to do with a film called 'The Clash of the Titans' which stars Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes. The main action doesn't start until the end of the week and I might wander down with my camera.............and volunteer Brian as an extra!

Losing Things

It isn't something that I'm in the habit of but I seem to have lost fifty Euros out of my purse.
We went to Santiago this morning to do a bit of shopping but were running a little short of ready cash just as one of the shops was closing. Knowing that I had a fifty tucked away I decided to use that before we went to the cashpoint machine. It had gone.
I'm always so careful and I couldn't believe it. Thankfully, it wasn't far to the machine and the shop remained open until we got back.
It has been going over and over in my head all day. It's done and that's all there is to it but it does bug me.
I've just checked my Euro Millions ticket and I've won thirteen Euros! Makes it all a little better, I suppose.

That Time of Year Again

I thought that it was time to liven up the place by doing a bit of a spring clean this week. Curtains washed and windows cleaned. I so hate cleaning windows. The bedrooms aren't too bad as Brian takes them out and I can do the frames and shine the glass all in one go but the patio doors are a different story. I went for washing them in soapy water, using the squeegee thing and then the paper towel way this time as opposed to glass cleaner. They don't look too bad but I'm avoiding looking at them when the sun shines. The worst bit is that the folk across the road can see how useless I am!

Brian did the kitchen and bathroom wall tiles a couple of weeks ago so all we have left to do is that awful slatted window in the utility room. On reflection, I reckon I'll leave that to him! Job done.

A Strange Birthday

I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do today so Brian suggested that I went for a peaceful beer at Rincon whilst he went to feed Sue's birds for me. Peace didn't last too long as Muriel and Bill turned up with Quality Street and I arranged to meet them later. The next to find me were Janie and Gary who stopped for a quick one and they were followed by Neil and Tina. We did have a really pleasant hour and Neil gave me a haggis. Don't ask!

I never did make a proper decision but after joining Muriel and Co at Bar San Juan for a while, we ended up going for a Chinese takeaway. Complete confusion as the staff couldn't speak any English but were fine with Spanish. We could order ours but as the phone orders came in from English folk they were baffled. Brian ended up translating. Well funny, and I hope they got what they wanted! Sorry, didn't mean that as he did really well.

After dinner and Britain's Got Talent, I went off to watch Slumdog on my little yellow telly. I'm not sure if was the illicit DVD or my player but it stopped just before the end!

Told you that it was a strange birthday!

Grumpy Puppy

Clio went off at lunchtime to have her much needed cut and blow dry.

She's done nothing but sleep since she came home and this was her reaction when I went to take a pic.

Best left alone but who will suffer at three in the morning when she's lively again?

It's Lovely

Our new table and chairs. The apartment isn't very big and we don't have enough room for much but this fits in really well. Mind you, I have been moving it here there and everywhere all day to find the perfect place.

Much better than balancing a tray on your knee and I'm well happy!

Health Checks

Thankfully, I'm normally quite healthy and just get the usual things like colds but since Jade Goody I've been worrying about the checks which I ought to be having, especially at my age.

You may remember that I had those funny chest pains around eighteen months ago but was well looked after at the emergency clinic and it wasn't a heart attack but severe indigestion. I've been fine since.

Well, today I received a letter from the Canarian Health Authority inviting me to attend for a mammogram. I can't understand why as I have never paid into the social fund but I'm well up for it and will be there on the eighteenth of May. The letter is in Spanish and some bits floor me but I'm sure it says that if there is a problem they will care for me. It also says that I have to take a nightie!

Brian reckons that they need Guinea pigs for some new equipment. He could be right but I can do that.

A Party

Our neighbour, Mimi, is leaving the island on Wednesday. She's lived here for around twelve years but has decided to settle in Belgium with her family.

She had arranged a bit of a 'do' at the local bar and invited us to join her. We don't normally go out in the evening as we prefer to wander around during the afternoon and come home for tea and television so it was a complete change of routine for us. I didn't really want to miss the Hell's Kitchen final either!

I must admit that it was quite nice to do my hair and nails and get dressed up for once and off we went. It was awful! Sometimes it is so embarrassing to be English. The local 'in' crowd had completely taken over and as we went to sit down we were shooed to one-side and went to sit on our own. I was fuming by then but kept quiet for Mimi's sake. To make matters worse, one of them came over to explain that it was a private party and did I not know that she was leaving. Where were they when she needed help with her packing?!

Poor Mimi. Her Spanish friends were at a loss too as they expected a couple of pizzas and a bit of a shindig. We went to sit outside with a few of them, had a beer and came home. I managed to catch most of Hell's Kitchen after all. We've arranged to meet her tomorrow and to say our own personal farewell.

She's been such a good neighbour and friend for the last eight years and we will miss her.

A Bad Week

I don't quite know how I did it but I have a trapped nerve on the left side of my neck. It was such a struggle to get out of bed on Thursday morning but painkillers have helped and I can get out and about now.

Not that my problems can compare with Hayley's. She's little Lottie's Mum and is really sick and in hospital at the moment. It wasn't looking good for her a couple of days ago as she was on life support. Thankfully, things are a bit better today, she's out of danger and it's hoped that all will be well.

Lots of love to the family xxx

Work!!

I haven't done anything for a couple of years even though I would dearly love a nice office job. Rare as rocking horse poo here and my age goes against me. Anyway, Sue asked me to give her a hand today as she really needed to get an apartment cleaned before she goes off on her hols on Friday.

Would you believe it? I awoke this morning with a stiff neck! Oh, well get on with it. It's a huge apartment which took us most of the day but we did have a few chuckles especially when I managed to turn the shower the wrong way and ended up soaked through.

It was hard work but, funnily enough, I quite enjoyed myself. She's leaving me with a couple of jobs to do whilst she's away as well as caring for her birds. Not a problem.

Could This Be It?

As you all know, the hotter the better for me but summer turned up with a vengeance today and it was a little too much. Over the years I've seen folk go back to England because the weather has beaten them. Liz finds it too hot now and only visits during the winter. I never once thought that I'd feel like that but I was really hot and bothered today and it's only April! We'll see what August brings.

The banana plantations must be muck spreading because everyone is inundated with flies. We rarely get them in our apartment but they seem to have moved in this week. Cockie spray seems to have won the day though! Bodies everywhere.

Many thanks to John who has given me a touch of spring with his photos of daffodils and primroses. I so miss my favourite season of the year.

Heartstopping Television

Today was the twentieth anniversary of the Hillsborough Disaster and I've just watched the ITV News. One lady had two children and a husband and now she has nothing. Others said that their kids went to watch a football match and never came home. They are all screaming for justice and I don't blame them. I know I'm a little tearful this week but even the stone-hearted would be touched by their stories.

Another thing that touched me was that funny little Scottish lady who has taken America by storm after her appearance on 'Britain's Got Talent' at the weekend. I so love that programme and settled down to watch it on Saturday evening. Having expected her to screech, she sang so beautifully. A contract with Simon Cowell already and five to two on winning so early and she's made, bless her. I can't wait to see what wardrobe do to her before she appears again!

Well

Easter as a whole as been pretty boring. I haven't felt too well either which hasn't helped. Nothing bad but I feel so tired and listless that it's an effort to move. I'm putting it down to depression as I spend too much time at home and would have loved to see my family this year.

Tears are never far away but I must try to get through it and face another week!

Easter Comes Early in Tenerife

We normally get caught out with the Easter Bank Holidays here but for once we had it sussed. Shopping all done by Wednesday afternoon so nothing to worry about. You can't win though because Alteza, the main supermarket in town, was open all day!

Then we had a call from Tina inviting us over to her place this evening. Neil's a chef and the meal was so brilliant that I can hardly move now. At least we had the walk home to work some of it off. I dread to think what Clio ate. She's absolutely zonked now!

A lovely evening, thanks mates xx

Look What I Found

Atarah posted this pic on the Accrington Forum asking why there are cobbles, then flags, more cobbles and the kerb edge?

Brian reckons it's because the cobbles would break down when the drays delivered and the flags made it more substantial.

To be honest, I was more interested in the place as I had my wedding reception there almost forty years ago. It was well posh then or so I thought.

Rumour has it that it's about to re-open later this month. Lots of TLC needed before then!

Away Day Two

I did early again! We were in Los Cristianos before half ten and stopped for a coffee at a bar overlooking the beach. Really nice and calm and we did 'people watching' for a while. I gave the waitress a five euro note and waited for my change. I so love it when Sue gets a strop on and waited whilst she went to tackle her! How can they justify four euros for one cafe con leche and a decaf con agua?...........they did and off we went.

Sue was on the look out for a pressie for her son's birthday but we couldn't find what she wanted so we jumped into a taxi for her hospital visit. All good news there and we walked through Las Americas for our all day breakfast.

A beer for me and a white wine for her and the bus home and Clio.

Sue is a good mate and we always have a laugh..........next hospital visit 2011 but I'm sure we'll manage a day out before then!

Away Day One

We decided to go to Santiago today just for a change of scenery. It was really pleasant and we wandered down towards Los Gigantes and called into Transito. Lots of English goodies such as thick white sliced bread, Paxo stuffing and Brian bought me an Easter bunny!

After meeting up with Gavin, Hayley and little Lottie we had time for a quick beer in the sun whilst waiting for the bus home. Such a civilised way to pass half an hour!

Sue phoned to invite me out tomorrow so await 'away day two'.

My Flippin' Hair

I have so much trouble with it as it's so thick and wavy. Hairdressers here can never seem to get it right and the last time I had it cut was when I was in England last October.

In desperation I called into the salon in the Church Square this afternoon to make an appointment for next week. I reckon that she must have fancied a challenge because she sat me at the washbasin and went for it. She's called Martha and comes from Columbia.

It took an hour just to cut it and she's done it beautifully even though I feel it's a couple of inches too short. I really don't know why Clio finds it so funny.....her turn next week!

Uncle Arthur

Shona rang tonight to tell us that Uncle Arthur has died at the age of eighty-nine. We haven't managed to get to Aberdeen in years but he, along with his late wife Bunty, always made us welcome when we were there.

His best mate rescued him from Dunkirk after he lost one of his legs. He could tell a tale or two about that! I could never work out which one it was. RIP Uncle Arthur.

Our friend Kevin had bad news this week too. His Mum died on Wednesday aged 90 and he's going back to Lancashire on Monday for the funeral. Hope all goes well for him.

They say it comes in threes...........I trust not.

Electricity - Lack Of!

I was just settling down around lunch time to check on my emails etc when the power went off. It isn't unusual here and rarely lasts long but this just went on and on. Time to go out and see if anyone knew anything. It didn't take long to find out that lightening had struck the power station and the whole island was without electricity.

Rumour had it that we wouldn't get it back until six in the morning so what else was there to do but have a beer. A good plan until the cold ones ran out and bars started to close. Some shops didn't re-open this afternoon either. What amazed me the most was the silence. You take for granted the hum of the fridges and other electrical items and never notice them until they stop.

Thankfully, it came back earlier this evening and we were able to cook a meal even though it was well after nine before we ate.

An update on Clio. Having starved her yesterday she was fine this morning and didn't need the vet. Back to her normal self and bounding everywhere!

Our School Trip

No island hopping for Charlotte and I this year as we are visiting the Orotava Valley, here in Tenerife.

I've never been so it will be good for me as I love history and it seems that we are visiting places which show you the old crafts. 25th of May which is a lot later in the year than usual as it's normally March or early April. Not such an early start either as we don't have to be at school until eight.

We have already made a deal. I've bagged the window seat whilst she plays Nintendo.

A Bit of Trouble

Panic stations in Tenerife! Canal Digital Plus have complained to the Police about the English bars and English residents receiving Sky TV illegally. As a result the Police have been visiting the bars and seizing their viewing cards. They have also closed down the businesses that supply them. They are a French company and can't provide an English service.

I know it's wrong but many of these bars rely on customers calling in to watch their favourite teams and lots of holiday makers enjoy a few beers whilst enjoying the footie. The girlies can catch up with the soaps too. Tenerife's tourist industry is dying quickly enough without another nail in the coffin. Expensive flights, all inclusive hotels and now this. OK, we are in the Canaries and it's their country but they were quick enough to sell the banana plantations to developers and make a living from the visitors. Sorry, I digress, back to the TV.

We don't have Sky but do have a BBC package which is transmitted illegally and fully expected ours to be closed down tonight. I managed to watch Coronation Street and then noticed that four of our channels had gone off. One by one the others went and we ended up reading. I was dead miffed as I so wanted to watch the start of the Apprentice. Thankfully, at nine fifteen, BBC came back so I caught most of it. We now have three channels back and with luck all will be well tomorrow.

I know I'm sad but we don't work and can't afford to go out every day so the television is our saviour during the evening. I must admit that if we do lose it we will have to find a way to get back to blighty!

Mothers' Day

I had a lovely card from Sam on Friday which had a twenty euro note tucked inside it along with a DVD of 'The Bridge on the River Kwai'! It seems that she couldn't leave Brian out!

Anyway, we decided to pig out on a Sunday roast at Bar San Juan which was spot on even though I can hardly move now! Thanks Sam x.

It was pretty mad in there as quite a few English families had gathered to celebrate the day. I was so annoyed that I didn't have my camera with me as the children had a massive water fight in the plaza afterwards. Well funny and good to see them running riot in the sun.

PS A card arrived today (Monday) from my son. Thank you Mark xx

I Don't Do Rush

As Sue and Don fancied joining in with the Paddy's Day celebrations in Las Americas they asked me to meet up with a client. He was moving into an apartment that Sue manages and needed someone to give him the keys etc. Not a problem or so I thought. There I was sitting at the computer in my nightie when my mobile rang. He was twenty minutes away!

Woosh......within ten minutes I was out of the door and managed to get over to the other side of the village just in time to see him arrive with his family. Sorted!

A Cunning Plan

I really enjoyed the book, Marley and Me and have now 'acquired' a DVD of it. I wanted to watch it tonight but 'im indoors has decided that it isn't quite his thing so the system in the lounge is out of bounds.

Thinking cap on and I remembered my little yellow television which travelled with us almost eight years ago. It took a little planning wire wise as some plugs are English and some Spanish but now it's linked up with Liz's DVD player, I'm off and running.

An early night for me along with a glass of red wine and a box of tissues. Woe betide anyone who spoils it!

Really Weird Weather

As I've reported before, this has been one of the coldest winters for years in Tenerife. Lots of chilly winds too.

We now have a calima which is a little oppressive but it's nice to be warm for a change. I took this photo earlier this evening and you can see how much dust is in the air. It's said that it could go on for some time yet. Choke and be warm or breathe and freeze!

A Day Out

Sue needed to go to the Green Clinic today for a check-up and as I usually keep her company on those sort of days I went along too.

It was an early start for me as I was out of the door by nine thirty and we were in Las Americas by half ten. Time for a coffee before her appointment and I was just about awake by then!

It's normally really civilised in the hospital but today was chaos. The queue was way down the corridor to register and then another wait of almost an hour before she was taken in to see the specialist. She's made a mental note not to make appointments for Mondays from now on.

That over we went off to have breakfast. A full English which was really good and a long walk to get over it. We were home by five and it's now midnight and time for my bed.

Evil Puppy

I think it must be a little like the terrible two's with kiddies as Clio has been so naughty during the past few weeks. We can't leave her without her doing damage but six months ago she was fine. Thinking back, our Sable was the same at eighteen months old and I remember punching hell out of her for digging holes in the mattress. Topsie decided to piddle on anything electrical at that age too. He got taken to the vet for a little operation which cured him and Sable had bones from the butchers to keep her occupied.

I've no idea what to do this time. She's just had a smacking and is hiding under the bed. I can't give her bones because of her funny stomach and an operation won't help. I doubt there is a cure for compulsive plaster scratching!

Sunday and Football!

Thankfully, I had Liz for company today whilst the boys watched it inside. We turned our backs on the outside TV and chattered to our heart's content. Five days to go before she's back off to Scotland and I'll miss her so much. We've arranged to meet in Alcala on Tuesday and the plan was for us to walk Clio there and come back in their car. Clio has piddled on her chips so it's debatable whether she goes at the moment. We will see!

Brian's culinary delight tonight was meatballs in sauce with mashed spuds and veg. I so hate meatballs and I'm not too happy with mash either. Two forkfulls and it got shoved in the fridge for him to eat tomorrow. If he likes it so much he can have it!

I had a pressie from Liz today. She brought me a cute DVD player. I can't wait to try it out tomorrow.

In The News

I was saddened to hear that Wendy
Richard died today. She was so funny in Dad's Army and Are You Being Served. Five decades in television........bless her x.

A complete change of subject but I was glad to hear that those Slumdog children are getting better housing in their native country. Fancy hitting the big time and then having to go back to the slums from which they came. I would hope that they will get some sort of income from the billions that the film has made but sadly life isn't always like that.

My last bit of news is that our Tully won the pancake race and has the certificate to prove it. Well done Tully!

Football

I don't have anything against it and quite enjoy a good game myself but how can ITV justify having the match from seven thirty in the evening until the ten o'clock news and then show the highlights from half ten until midnight?

After wandering around the internet and chatting with my sister-in-law for a little while I decided to check tomorrow's tv. Would you believe it? ITV have the same schedule but a different match. Don't slate me but who wants to watch Middlesborough?

Thankfully, Brian doesn't so I'm able to catch up on Masterchef and watch CrimeWatch. Small mercies comes to mind!

Liz and Lindsay

They called us this morning to say that they would be in the area this afternoon and we met up at Bar Antonio for another catch up. As they don't leave the island for ten days or so I reckon it could happen again!

To be honest, we have been quite popular lately as Bill and Muriel rang the other day to invite us on an 'away day' in Las Americas. We walked for miles and then went to their house for dinner. All very enjoyable but a certain black puppy had the sulks because we left her for so long!

Bits and Bats

Fat and full! As per usual we walked down to Bar San Juan to watch the Manchester United match this afternoon. Not that I support them but at least I have a couple of beers whilst Brian joins in with the lads. I'm glad I did go today as they had a bit of an offer on. Fish, chips and mushy peas for three euros! I haven't had that since I was in England last October and it was really good. Well done Dave the Chef xx

Thankfully, Clio has now stopped being sick. It really scares me when she is ill and what with the recent poisoning of dogs and her Parvo, I get a bit neurotic.

Monday is my last bowling day. It's a fun bowl with a meal included. I'll feel well sad when I leave. My problem of getting our balls and shoes home has been resolved. Helen has resigned from the Tuesday League and we've arranged to pick it all up next week. End of an era.

I So Wish

Around ten years ago I had a hankering for a Mazda MX5 and decided to trade Peter, my sporty Fiesta in and buy one. For some unknown reason I was talked into getting the MX3. She was absolutely brilliant to drive but parking was horrendous. Not being terribly tall and even having the seat on it's highest setting, I couldn't see past the 'lumps' on her side. Poor Polly, we never did bond!

I was wandering around the internet this evening and spotted the new edition of the MX5. 21, 000 pounds sterling! It will be on the market in April but I doubt that my money factory will help me out with that one!

Nice and Peaceful

The bad winds have finally left us and it looked so calm and sunny today that I was drawn outside to read my book on the balcony.

Clio's company, a good mug of coffee, an avocado to snack on and I felt quite content. Why does it never last? Brian is constructing some sort of advertising board down in the garage and needed a little help. At least he let me finish my lunch!

I was in charge of holding the perspex whilst he glued it and stuck it on. For once I got it right! I should have agreed on terms before I started though. Having asked when pay day was I got told that I'd get five euros in the course of time. Tight git!

A Little Squiffy!

Now that the Exchange Rate is so bad we've had to change our lifestyle a little and luxuries such as alcohol have had to go.

We knew that our mates, Liz and Lindsay had arrived on the island last Friday but never expected to see them so soon. There I was snuggled under the covers and reading my book when they rang to say that they were around the corner waiting for us. We haven't seen them for over two years and within half an hour there we all were at Puesto del Sol having a beer or three!

It was really lovely. We all get on so well and never stopped talking for a couple of hours or so, catching up on this and that and I could have stayed there all day. Unfortunately, they had to get back to their hotel and after waving them off we went down the road to watch the Man U game. Another couple of beers and now I'm half tiddled!

The whole day bucked me up no end and I feel happier than I've been for ages. It's so nice to have real friends.

Janie's Pic

I received a text from Sue this morning telling me to get the camera out as there was snow on the volcano. Not an easy shot from down here as the wires and stuff get in the way.

Looking on Facebook I found that my mate, Janie, had been up there and had uploaded a few photos. I've been really naughty and pinched one for you all to see! I did confess first!

It is hard to imagine that such a thing could happen here but there it is.

Bowling

Monday bowling season has come to an end yet again and I've made the decision to retire this time. Lots of reasons for it really. Playing twice a month doesn't give any room for improvement and I feel that I'm letting my partner down. Even though she can be pretty bad at times! Sorry Ros! Another reason is that my mate, Barry, who kindly gives me a lift has also decided to give it a miss for a while. I could go by bus which doesn't bother me, but the travelling time is twice as long as the actual match. All in all it's the right choice but I will miss the friends that I've made along the way.

Beautiful

I've been watching the weather reports from the UK during the past couple of days and have decided that it looks really beautiful. Looking at it all from two thousand miles away helps!

Listening to a few folk who couldn't get to work made me chuckle. I remember when I lived in Cornwall and awoke to see a white landscape. No chance of driving 20 miles through that so I rang work and told them I was snowed in. Back under the covers until around eleven o'clock.......I've always been good at sleeping during the day.........and it had all gone!! Would you believe that I got in before one and earned brownie points!

A lovely photo from Robert Couzens.

A Learning Curve

There's a special Photo Competition this month which gives a prize for the most interesting desk top. I've never recorded an image of it before so it was all new to me.

I understand the jpeg thingy but had no idea how to convert a pic to it. Someone suggested Corel Photo and so I downloaded a free trial and from then it was easy.

Done and dusted now. Not a chance of winning but it did keep me occupied for an hour or so this evening.

Me and My Big Mouth!

There I was feeling pretty chuffed that the weather was improving when this turned up this evening. Low black clouds over the Island of La Gomera.

Not that it came to much but as our television signal is transmitted from there it really put the damper on our viewing this evening. I wanted to watch 'A Short Stay in Switzerland' but all we got was a blank screen. Thankfully, after a few fits and starts I managed to catch the last half of it.

Euthanasia is a subject which I have pondered on over the years and was leaning towards it being a good thing for terminally ill people but after watching that I've decided I'd prefer to suffer to the end. For one, I couldn't put my children through something like that and secondly, I don't have the courage.

How Lovely

I've just been sitting out on the balcony and it is such a nice night. Not a breath of wind, fairly warm and a clear sky.

I don't know too much about stars but I could clearly see Orion's belt and sword. Hopefully, the weather may start to improve now that January is almost done. Mainland Spain is suffering from gale force winds at the moment with around 9 people dead. Val, in Canada, has snow and it's -25.

Living in Tenerife has it's advantages!

He's Magic!!

I haven't watched too much of the snooker this week but have caught some of Ronnie O'Sullivan's matches. He really is my favourite and I'm so happy that he won.

My son's graduation from University was held at Preston Guildhall and I remember walking through to my seat. I stood for a minute or so and said 'Ronnie stood here!'. Sad or what?

Watching Mark receiving his diploma eclipsed the lot, even with my hangover from hell but that is another story!

Look at Them!!

It is so lovely to receive photos of the grandchildren. Simon and Karen sent us the latest of Sophie and Carla at Christmas and then we received one of Tully from Mark and Katie this week.

It has meant a complete re-organisation of my 'rogues gallery' as I affectionately call it. So lovely to look at every day.

From the left: Charlotte, not quite a grandchild but feels like one, Jamie, Martin and Maisie, Tully and Harry, Carla and Sophie and my nephews, Dean and Bradley.

Silent and Deadly

It's very rare for us to have the windows and doors closed but as Tenerife is having it's worst winter for eighty years we are well shut in at the moment. I hate it but at least the wind has dropped tonight and I've been able to put my washing out.

I'm not sure if it is something that we haven't noticed before because of the fresh air but our Clio keeps stinking the room out. It doesn't bother her but, my goodness, it's awful.

Staying with the subject of Clio. We keep thinking that now she is eighteen months old we'll see some improvement in her behaviour. Granted that she doesn't destroy things any more but she still chases my feet and runs riot. During our normal play time this evening she cracked me in the nose. So painful! She didn't really mean it but I'm going to put a notice on my face in the morning to explain my two black eyes. "Brian did this". That will get the village talking!

Flamin' Men!

I've really been into the Darts Championship this week and have enjoyed every minute of it.

Brian wanted to watch the Man U - Chelsea game so after Sunday dinner I sent him down to Bar San Juan to catch it there leaving me in peace. A nice soak in the bath and then I settled down to watch the Darts final. How I wish it had been on an hour earlier.

He came home around half six and moaned. I was willing O'Shea on whilst he tutted every time the poor bloke got another leg. It really spoiled my enjoyment and ruined my afternoon. Selfish or what?

I wonder what he'll think when he realises that the snooker started today?!!

Such a Shock

I haven't spoken to my mate, Ruth, for weeks but just put it down to the Xmas and New Year festivities. We met online three or four years ago and normally chat on MSN on Saturday evenings for an hour or so. She came over to Tenerife last May with her Mum and sister and here she is sitting at our local looking well and happy.

She turned up on MSN tonight and really shocked me by saying that she'd had a heart attack just before Xmas. Thankfully, she's alright but now is the proud owner of a stent. Not fifty yet either.

Such a good friend................Get well soon Ruth xxxx

Spanish Tapas

I really love garlic prawns. Cooked in hot oil in an earthenware dish and served with pan (Spanish bread) it's brilliant and I hate finishing it!

It is usually served either as tapas or as a starter but not being a big eater it does me as a main meal. Being a bit pricey and as eating out days have gone by the board with the dreaded exchange rate, Brian has perfected it.

He made it for my dinner tonight, flippin' lovely. Thanks mate!

Fun!

Kevin, Joan, Maz and Bernard

Joan sent me this pic of Xmas Fun Las Americas style. They have had nothing but praise for the hotel since they came back and I'm glad they all enjoyed it.

She has had a couple of moans because I've never posted a pic of her before. Not really my fault as she wouldn't let me use the last one! I wonder why?

2009

Happy New Year to all.

My poor blog has been neglected of late mainly due to the fact that I've had nothing much to say. Xmas and New Year came and went with nothing of note to report. It's Three Kings Night tomorrow and life won't get back to normal here until Wednesday.

Lots of confusion regarding Monday bowling. My partner, Ros, is on grannie duty because nursery is closed and when I rang our opponents to postpone they thought it was next week anyway! All sorted now and I have yet another free afternoon tomorrow.

The Photo Comp

I haven't entered for ages but felt inspired by the Christmas subject. Having nothing new I shoved in an old one thinking that it wouldn't rate anything. Fifth place! I'm really pleased and will gather some new material for the next one.

The subject is Light. I'll have a go.

How Awful

There has been a Woolies in my home town of Accrington for 83 years. My Nana used to tell me about spending sixpences in there when she was a youngster and I remember buying my make-up there when I was in my teens.

My son, Mark, managed to get himself 'lost' in there once when he was around two years old and was given ten pence by some nice lady who 'found' him. Little tinker managed to lose himself every time we went in from then on!

Alison and I went in last October to buy some hair thingies for me and I'm so glad we did. My last memories of an institution.

Poor Woolies...............RIP

Have a Good One

It's just us this year as most of our mates are off doing other things. Maz and Bernard are staying in a hotel in Las Americas with Joan and Kevin whilst Pam and John have gone to England to stay with their daughter.

We have a plan though. Smoked salmon and poached eggs for breakfast and then a walk around the village. Roast duck with all the trimmings for dinner followed by hot mince pies with ice-cream for pudding. Lots of good telly for the evening including Corrie!

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!

Flippin' Freezing

I know that it isn't half as cold as England but it feels well chilly here at the moment. I even resorted to wearing my fleece this afternoon. It's lovely in the sun but turn a corner and the breeze gets you.

Having craved for a gas fire all evening it struck me to turn the oven on. Nice and snug now!

Wow!

I haven't been receiving my Christmas cards for the last two or three years but they are flocking in at the moment. People have sworn blind that they have sent them but they never turned up.

Special thanks to Mark and Katie, Sam and Baz and Simon and Karen.

I know that it's a pain to write them out but it's so nice to know that you are thought about when you get them. I promise not to moan next year!

Thanks also to our Shona who was kind enough to post mine in Scotland xx

What a Performance

We borrowed a Digibox from our mate Mick last summer and as it suited us and he didn't really need it we bought it from him about three months ago. We get BBC 1 and 2, ITV1, Channels 4 and 5 as well as a couple of Sports Channels. As long as I can watch Corrie, I'm happy.

Rumours were flying around at the end of last week that it had to be re-configured at some point. Not a problem or so we thought. I was sure that it would be after Christmas and a couple of folk said that it wouldn't be before February. As we don't normally watch television during the day, it was six o'clock when I turned on last night to catch up on Eggheads (I know I'm sad)........NO TV!

Off we set at lunchtime to sort it out and as we had to go by bus it was quite a mission. On arriving at Guaza we turned the corner to find a queue of around twenty people all clutching their boxes. It was really funny. It took us over an hour to sort ours out and by the time we left the shop the queue was well down the street.

A five-hour trip and a ninety Euro charge, what a day but at least I got my Corrie back!

Boys and Toys

It's a Bank Holiday here in Tenerife and Brian was well impressed with a car rally held just a couple of streets away from us. He went out early with Clio just for a nose around but came back to ditch her and collect the camera. He did quite well with this pic!



Curiosity got the better of me and I went to find him later. It was pretty exciting watching the sports cars zooming past even though they were risking life and limb on a two lane road. Parked cars down each side too.



I managed to catch this chappy on his way mainly to capture the conditions but we really put our foot in it on the way home. Having decided to wander into the throng we blundered into a televised news report!

How the poor chap managed to keep on talking with these two dimwits hogging the limelight I know not. No Spanish TV for me for the next few days!

Sleep

I'm going through one of those phases when no matter how I try, I can't sleep. It's really awful and I feel well wrecked. I went off to bed at around midnight on Tuesday and tossed and turned for hours. I was still awake when the kiddies went off to school on Wednesday morning and ended up without sleep until two o'clock or so on Thursday morning.

I sort of put it down to my poor brain having nothing to think about. When I worked it was easy enough to lie and plan my schedule for the following day which soon sent me off. Now I tend to start worrying about the most stupid things. I won't go there as it really is ridiculous.

Almost half one on Friday morning and I've had around twenty hours sleep since Monday. I'm dreading going to bed but I'd best give it a go. Find a book and be positive. I WILL SLEEP!

Marley and Me

My sister-in-law, Alison saved loads of books for me to bring back home to Tenerife. They have all been really good but a couple have stuck in my mind.

The first one was 'My Sister's Keeper' which was really brilliant but I've fallen in love with Marley. One of my friends let slip that I will cry at the end. Bad move because I'm scared of finishing it!

He does remind me of our evil dog, Sable, who lived with us for ten years or so.

She was Mrs Wicked and chewed everything in sight. I could write some books about her!

For a Doberman she was a sweetheart and I can still feel her silky ears even now.

A Snake's Wedding!

I've been in the middle of yet another wrangle between Direct Telecom and Telefonica and this one has gone on for around three weeks. One says that it is the line and the other the router. After having my biggest moan yet, Hagar the 'Orrible from Telecom devised this mess of wires just to prove that Telefonica was at fault. He was wrong!! I'm back online and Telefonica are in the clear.

My neighbour, Mimi, ran me up to Adeje this afternoon to collect Hagar's masterpiece and we had a late lunch whilst we waited. Most enjoyable.

One Thing After Another

Both of my Grandsons have been in hospital during the last couple of weeks. Martin had his arm operation and Harry had suspected meningitis. Such a worry for their parents and I would have loved to have seen them both. I doubt that I'd have been allowed in with such a cold but it doesn't make it any easier. Thankfully, they are both home now.

My worries were increased last weekend by a confession from Brian. It seems that he's had a lump in his throat for the past three months and didn't know how to tell me. He hates to upset me and decided to keep it to himself. We've had such an awful week. Tears, rows and times that were so terrifying, I can't describe it. I've never seen him so frightened in all the years that we have been together.

I decided that enough was enough this morning and practically dragged him to the clinic. Two steps forward and one back which would have been well funny under different circumstances. He was shaking like a leaf when the doctor called him in and I went outside for some air and to say a few prayers. I fully expected a trip by ambulance to the hospital and was ready to phone Maz to ask her to collect Clio and keep her overnight.

Fifteen minutes later he was out. A severe throat infection and not the diagnosis he'd imagined. I didn't know whether to kill him on the spot or to hug him! He's well dosed up with the shed load of tablets he's had today and sound asleep.

A Little Better

I've hardly done anything since I returned home in the early hours of Saturday morning as this flippin' cold has really knocked me for six. However, I've just had a lovely soak in a hot bath and I reckon that I'm on the road to recovery.

I didn't attend the bash at the local bar for Halloween as I was mid-air during the celebrations. Most folk thought that my broomstick would carry me home to save on air fare...........nasty shower!!

Seeing this photo of Vic, I'm glad that I was miles high. No wonder he scared the kiddies! Young Frankie will never be the same again!

So Cold

I didn't have a very good journey as the plane developed a problem before take off which resulted in a two hour wait on the runway at Tenerife Sur Airport. My brother and his family waited ages for me but the welcome was really great when I eventually got there. The big sign 'Auntie June' amused most of the folk in front of me!

We had a brilliant week. Skipton, Clitheroe, Accrington and Blackburn, and a wander around Blackpool to see the lights. Steak pudding all in, fish and chips and to top it all off, a KFC! My nephews had grown beyond recognition but we bonded and had a few laughs. Thanks to them all for looking after me, especially Alison xxx

The worst bit was the cold. I'm suffering at the moment and still can't get warm. Trust Tenerife to have a windy cold spell just as I got home!

I'm Home

I have a really bad cold and haven't the patience to do a detailed blog just now. I'll catch up as soon as I stop sniffling!!