Ken Devine...a day at a time... weekly!

In the deep and loving it.

2012-01-29T16:52:00.002Z

Bev made the right choice in taking photos of Lilya rather than me and the gala...Martin was thrown in free of charge virtue of the fact he was the one holding the baby:)

I was worn out by the end of the evening, but it was a great night (as usual) and well attended.

Well done Martin Cox for whipping up enthusiasm in Nottingham...it was all worth it at they ended the evening as overall winners. Thanks also to Nigel and Jan, Sarah, Chris, David, Peter and everyone else that helped us out and made it an event to remember.

Had the pool officials not stopped Bev from taking photos, there'd be more to show. C'est la vie!

Calm before the storm...

M&L making an early start in the little pool...

David, Eileen and Bobby...for once, David isn't the baby:)

My goals...

2012-01-17T20:08:00.002Z

Landscape back garden.
Have 4 Plein Air expeditions lasting two or three days each outing.
Self-publish a 'DailyPainting' book.
Extend and re-fit bathroom...including a new tank in the loft.
Make 12 videos for Youtube.

We've already demolished the outbuilding and shed in the back garden, cut dead trees down...as well as others, erected, relocated and stocked another shed, replaced old posts and fitted newer fence panels.

I'm really pleased that I haven't over committed myself this year because (as you know) there will always be children, friends and acquaintances to help out...not to mention the odd emergency and the list of jobs waiting for me in France.

We also have unspoken goals...like making certain we have a well balanced lifestyle and maintaining good habits.

Bev has her own personal goals, two of which we are doing together.

We are ready!!

I'm still standing

2012-01-10T20:23:00.002Z

I sit here wondering what this year will bring.
I sit here wondering about my apparent diminishing capacity to cope with what seemed quite easy last year.
I sit here hoping for little change, but for everything to change.
I sit here fearing an invasion of my world...for the robbers of time and stagnation born of apathy.
I'm standing now and want to make a difference again...my capacity has just increased and I want to slay my demons of which there are a few...none of which are sitting.

What I'd like to do in 2012...
Try some things I've never experienced before.
Windsurf the English Channel (something I've wanted to do for years)

What I have to do in 2012...
Be realistic...It'll take more than this year to prepare to windsurf the English Channel. I think it will have more impact if I wait until I draw my pension:) Extend the upstairs bathroom instead, and for an encore landscape the back garden.
I also have to stop over-committing myself.

That'll do for now.

foreboding

2012-01-06T17:54:00.000Z

I've got that feeling again. You know...the one that you get when you've done something wrong and you know you'll be found out.

Do I come clean straight away and take it on the chin or choose my moment carefully?

Christmas

2011-12-27T17:33:00.001Z

My daughter's family have endured months of upheaval while the extension was being built and the new kitchen fitted...just for her to set fire to it and also burn a hole the exact shape of an iron in the new utility room carpet... a day or so before all the family arrive for a get-together.

Luckily, the fire was put out quickly and the smoke damage was confined to the cooker area. A teddy bear now sits on the utility hot spot, hiding it from view.

When we got back home after a fantastic family Boxing Day, we found out that trees have blown over into our garden in France. for some reason, though, I'm as unconcerned as Juli was with the fire. C'est la vie!

We've had a wonderful Christmas and our wood store has just increased significantly.

Before...

After...

2011-12-07T10:58:00.003Z

Serene has just picked up grandma (my MIL) to help her with her Christmas shopping. She has been so ill of late...especially last night, that I thought it impossible to even think about her going out today.

As she knew what day it was when she woke up, I felt optimistic and, after a hearty breakfast, an insulin jab and her tablets, I closed the door behind them on this wintry but sunny day with the hope she gets my present first:)

I enjoyed the few moments before they left, watching the Christmas tree lights with Spencer as Serene searched for the screw from MIL's glasses which she had just dropped in her part of the house.

Anyway, they are gone now, and I scrambled up the stairs to my studio, grateful for such a caring daughter in law.

As it turns out, my MIL had her purse stolen whilst in town shortly after withdrawing £200 from the bank and Serene, having returned to the scene to make certain all bases were covered, accidentally locked her keys in the car and had to be rescued by her dad who dashed all the way from Mansfield with a spare set.

Sometimes the blessings aren't always apparent when you go the extra mile.

2011-12-06T10:42:00.000Z

I feel like Mrs T when she said that the Lady is not for turning...then made a U-turn.

I've felt a little lost not recording my life online...especially now that the busy period is over, therefore I will resume soon...perhaps once the busy Christmas period is over:)

Last Post

2011-10-12T15:53:00.004+01:00

Like General Custer I'm feeling overwhelmed and have decided, unlike him, to surrender before I become a casualty.

I began this journal in April, 2009 and thought I'd be making entries until I drop, but now that I am painting full-time, I feel the need to de-clutter.

Genealogy is one area that I've neglected over the years and need to make space for.

Once my other blog (Destination Brittany) is up to date and categorised, I will be leaving that as a complete record for visitors.

I will continue to visit my good blogger friends and hope they will be friends with me on facebook or visit my art blog which, unlike this one WILL be around in one form or another until my last breath.

Thank you for all your comments over the years...I really do appreciate them.

Finally...this is not goodbye. KEEP IN TOUCH!

Daily Art Blog

The Usher

2011-10-07T18:09:00.002+01:00

While on holiday, we attended church with my son and his family. We attend this church whenever we are in the area and count many of the members as good friends.

As we quietly edged our way to two vacant seats right next to my good friends Marie-Jose and Florent Vogel, my son, with his wife and daughter Liliya, sat three rows in front. Liliya was displaying signs of discontent and the usher who I didn't recognise, kindly came forward and offered her a 'quiet book' to play with. It was a thoughtful gesture and I immediately warmed to him.

I noticed Corinne leading the music...she has such style and enthusiasm. I caught her eye and she smiled. Later, she would be coming for dinner with her husband and daughter.

I desperately wanted to talk with Marie-Jose, but to do so would have been irreverent. I glanced around and noticed so many of the people we have grown to love over the last eight years. It was a good meeting and, in the crush afterwards, we never managed to speak with Florent or Marie-Jose. It will be another eight months before we see them again. I think I'll invite them to dinner in May to make certain we get to talk. In the meantime, I'll practise my French.

I later found out that the stranger at the door who was so kind to Liliya, is head of President Sarkozy's bodyguards. She was obviously in good hands...as is President Sarkozy, no doubt.

I love being reminded that a common faith can, and often does, bring so many people together who would, under normal circumstances, never have the opportunity to mix.

Back to reality

2011-09-29T09:00:00.002+01:00

I'm back from holiday and, as I sit here with the sun streaming through my studio window and warming the left side of my face, I feel a little out of sorts. Yes, I know I shouldn't, but I do.

It doesn't help to be reading a book entitled 'The Art of Dying'.

Perhaps when I pick the brush up and start painting I'll feel better. Perhaps when I catch up on a few blogs, I'll feel better still.

I invariably feel this way after a good holiday...especially after listening to world news or reading a national. I should also make certain that my calendar is clear following a break.

How would you feel if you lost your home?

2011-09-06T12:18:00.002+01:00

Well, waddya know...the Sunderland v Chelsea game isn't until this weekend because of International fixtures last Saturday. Perhaps it's just as well that I'm out of the country...unless they show it on the ferry.

Anyway, I don't now why I'm speaking of such small things. Yesterday was a disastrous day for the owners of Dailypaintworks.com...the site that hosts and auctions my small paintings.

They just happen to live in Bastrop County in Texas and were just one family of approximately500 that lost their homes to the raging fires. Carol Marine (a fellow artist) gives her reaction along with what they managed to save as they evacuated. She wasn't able to save her larger paintings.

I just can't imagine how I'd feel if my home was burned down. Devastated wouldn't even come close. David and Carol seem unbelievably calm and practical about it all.

'All is well' he says...'We are safe and face a new beginning'.

How positive is that from a man who has just spent the past year building a new studio for his wife, only for it to be destroyed along with everything else.

It's made me think about where everything is, should I need to get them out in an emergency, because fire is something that can strike anytime and anywhere.

If you Google Texas fires, you'll get an indication of how big a disaster it is.

High life and a rich vein

2011-09-02T07:38:00.002+01:00

Having read a bit about Lady Gaga, you can keep her...talented, yes, but I've decided to strike her off my Christmas card list for a whole load of reasons.All that's gold doesn't shine, are words from Dylan that come to mind. Actually,why am I still with Dylan after all these years? Perhaps I'm just picky when it comes to who I spend time with:)
I guess, in her defence, being a celeb has its own set of pressures and rules.

I've tasted the high life this week and felt a bit like a celebrity myself, having been featured in several local newspapers and radio, but you are pretty safe with me...I break no rules and my behaviour is predictably boringly safe...most of the time:)

I'm in Mansfield at the moment and it's 6:30 am. In a little while we'll be setting off for Sunderland to plaster my daughter's bedroom ceiling while she is on holiday. We'll then be attending Craig and Anna's wedding on Saturday before making the journey back to Newark. The biggest disappointment will be missing the Chelsea v Sunderland clash at the Stadium of Light...just minutes from the reception venue. We'll hear the roar of the crowd as we score and poor Craig will have difficulty making himself heard. Okay, we'll be a mile away, but a mile is nothing when 38,000 fans get excited. I'm so looking forward to the wedding, though...and the beach which is facing the reception hotel...and seeing family and friends, and walking barefoot in the sand, and...

Money can't buy what the weekend has in store for me and being poor affords such a rich vein of experience at times.

I just hope Sunderland beat Chelsea. The reality will probably see us being beaten 3-0 but I'm already working on responding in a positive way:)

An off day only if I let it

2011-08-24T18:05:00.002+01:00

I admit to knowing nothing about Lady Gaga other than having heard one of her songs today (which I liked). I heard it said that she enjoys wallowing in loneliness as it's what makes her the artist she is.

I am an artist of sorts, albeit a few thousand leagues below her apparent calibre, and understand a little of the loneliness of the studio and the creative process. Thank goodness for music, radio and regular distraction. I don't think I would cope without modern technology.

Today wasn't a good day.

Imagine how I felt when, after hours of struggle, I dropped today's painting wet side down onto fibre rich carpet. The lady wasn't the only one feeling gaga.

All is well...I just had to scrape off, dust myself down psychologically speaking and start all over again.

They say that it's what life is all about, but I can do without it :)

Working with one family or another

2011-08-22T17:43:00.004+01:00

Having spent the weekend at a CHinK charity sale and a work project at the home of one of my sons (which just about wore me out now that I sit here and feel the effects), oh, and socialising with Paul and Debbie...not to mention the normal routine of study, church, painting and shopping...I wonder if I'm not trying too hard to make the most of life.

More recovery time is a sentence that's bouncing around my brain right now...or have a more realistic calendar. The next four weeks show no signs of let-up and I can't amend anything. I guess I'll just have to stop complaining and be thankful for a full life:)

This is Friday's little painting which I forgot to post here...

Today the sun streams through the window as I sit to apply paint to canvas and I am grateful for the rest.

Here's today's offering...

Thomas Marent, the wildlife photographer, has kindly given me permission to paint this happy scene from a photograph found in several UK newspapers last week. I love the way the baby urang-utan is is trying to grab the parent's ear as they both screech for joy.

The details of the charity to which the proceeds of the sale will go, along with Thomas's website are over on my art blog.

Pennies from Heaven

2011-08-18T18:09:00.000+01:00

And I still managed to paint.
Fist of all, this is yesterday's painting the proceeds of which will go to charity.

Details of the charity is over on my art blog.

Today's offering...with a little help from the girls...they told me what I needed to do.

Highlight of the day...Hollie emptying all the loose change from her mum's purse into my piggybank.

Guess who's babysitting tonight while Bev and daughter go out?

He just isn't that bad. Not all rogues are criminals.

2011-08-15T08:29:00.005+01:00

In my humble opinion this is a very misleading headline...

I knew Norman as hard working, articulate, confident, considerate, positive, likeable, resourceful and enterprising rogue. He was even humble and teachable to a degree. Yes, he loaned money without authority to do so, but it was never a secret as far as I remember. They were short term loans made to a few desperate individuals until the next pay day. He saw it as offering a helping hand rather than anything more sinister and would struggle to get his money back. He also offered a gift wrapping service in the run-up to Christmas as well as trying to establish his office cleaning business.

I liked him. I still like him. He's more honest than most in my opinion and certainly a person not deserving of this article which is a touch misleading. If Norman says someone was lying, I would tend to believe him...but who would believe a loan shark?

I'm not condoning the practice of money lending registered or not, nor of Norman's actions. I'm merely pointing out that you shouldn't believe all you read. Everyone that knew him saw an indefatigably happy, helpful, smiling and positive individual. Rarely would you see him like this photograph...unless he felt aggrieved.

I once had an accountant who fleeced us for a lot of money for services I later found out to be nothing to do with our type of business. He knew he was charging for such services. Yes, there are real criminals who are licensed to fleece us and they are often well respected. There are others that I have had personal experience with that should be locked up... but not Norman. I trust my instincts and can usually recognise if a person is hardcore criminal and evil to boot...not Norman. Give the man a break.

It makes you wonder who else the press hang out to dry.

On a separate note, but still with crime...I finished this book last week...

It's a true story that shocked Victorian Britain in June, 1860. It was recommended by a friend and, although a terrible crime, the book is also crammed...and I mean crammed, with interesting facts. It was a fascinating book that has to be read through to the last illuminating page. Don't be tempted to google the original case as it will reveal who the murderer was...or will it? Things are not as straightforward as they seem.

The only time I found myself drifting was during references to the great crime writers of the time, even though one of them was a certain Mr Charles Dickens. Mr Dickens had his own suspicions regarding this crime.

I think this is the first book I've read which is of a specific murder and, strangely enough, I would recommend it.

Todays little painting...

This is another study of Featherbed Rock in Seaham, NE England.

Mr&Mrs

2011-08-11T18:47:00.003+01:00

I forgot to mention how it went last Saturday evening...

We arrived and saw that we weren't included on the table plan...I'd forgotten to RSVP! Bev gave me one of those looks that told me I wasn't doing too good today.

As luck would have it Kirsty, Corrine and Karen spotted us and insisted we come in. I've known Corrine for years and I'm still unsure how to spell her name. Anyway, it was so good to see everyone and we enjoyed chatting and generally catching up.

Kirsty is a down to earth kind of person who speaks her mind and I was mightily relieved she didn't blow me out of the water for not replying.

I was disappointed with my not remembering the names of some of the guests that I worked with just a month or so ago, but after having more than my fair share of the buffet, the old brain cells kicked in.

I spent six years of my life with K, K and C, and you couldn't ask for a nicer gaggle of people...if you catch them on a good day :) Seriously, they are what life is all about. You could write a book about those three and, if Jane was alive, it would have been a best seller. It was a chapter in my life that isn't without extremely fond memories.

I'm feeling a little emotional right now as I remember my friend Dot who was diagnosed the same time as Jane and who has been informed she has, at best, a couple of months before she's taken from us. She is so positive and grateful for the time she has had and, even now, thinks about others more than herself...just like Janey.

Anyway...back to the wedding. It's a shame we couldn't get to witness the actual wedding ceremony, but thanks for the invite to the reception Kirsty and Andrew. You are a lovely couple and we are grateful to have shared a little of your big day.

Accidents will happen...

2011-08-06T16:26:00.003+01:00

I've been away for a few days helping our son to board and plaster two bedrooms...including the ceilings, and I'll be back on Monday to do the stairwell. One of these days I'll have a normal midweek experience.

I slept solidly and woke in leisurely manner. I read Jean's blog and thought I'd do whatever takes my fancy.

We treated ourselves to a hand-held walk to Newark and visit the market...after a breakfast treat at King Charles 1st.

We tried the downstairs room this time...

Bev gazing out onto the busy street...she saw 7 people in town that she knew...I saw none.

A smaller version of this jug caught our eye at the market and so we bought it and I, being considerate, took the responsibility to carry it home...

On the way home, the bag handle snapped and the jug hit the ground and smashed. Bev no longer wanted to hold my hand.

As she silently walked home alone, I dashed back to the market to buy another. Sadly, the smashed one was the last one...but the lady let me have the larger one and didn't charge me.

So, Bev is smiling and will hold my hand again at Kirsty's wedding reception tonight because she got the jug she really wanted anyway.

Just a thought...when Bev came running into the house in tears last year after she backed our new car into our newly built gate pillars and damaging both, I hugged and consoled her as it was only an accident, right?

Today, when I accidentally dropped an inexpensive jug, Bev's consoling words were...'You are dead meat if it's smashed'. No hug, no sympathy, no warmth. Okay, I know I shouldn't have accommodated that thought. It just popped into my mind...as they do.

Incidentally, the market lady put it in a stronger bag and then into a second bag for good measure. As she smiled to hand it to me, our eyes met and I could almost hear her thoughts...you men aren't used to carrying bags. Here, I'll make it easier for you not to mess things up again.

We men are sensitive to unspoken words (as well as unguarded spoken ones), you know:)

This little painting is the day's work. It's story is on my painting blog.

Clarification

2011-08-01T08:16:00.006+01:00

Yesterday we enjoyed a really nice walk along the river to the Queen's Sconce (fort). If you click on the image twice you might be able to glean some details.

Then a walk to the castle to take a photo to show where King John died (poisoned). He died at midnight in the room behind that narrow arched door to the left on the first floor with the four narrow slotted windows (click image for magnification).

Now, for clarification on the hanging demonstrations that I mentioned in my last post...

The hangman was in period dress (1351) standing next to the gallows and he was explaining the process of being hanged, drawn and quartered and demonstrated how each tool was used in the quartering process that lay on the table before him.

William Wallace was believed to be the first to be found guilty of of High Treason and, as such, the recipient of this barbaric torture.

The victims (males only...females were burned at the stake) were first dragged behind a horse to the gallows. He was then hung but cut down before he died in order for him to witness having his intestines and stomach drawn from him. I should have taken a photo of the tool used for this process...pretty gruesome. It was a three-pronged fork on a two foot shaft.

There is some confusion about if the 'drawn' refers to being dragged by the horse to the place of execution or the removal of intestines. Anyway, the next process was to hitch a horse to each limb and send them on their way. To ease their burden...the horses burden, someone was given a cleaver to make the first cut at the base of the limbs. The head was then hacked off. The various parts were displayed in different locations as a deterrent to others.

The practice was abolished in 1870.

After the demonstration I enjoyed a hearty lunch consisting of chicken...quartered.

Incidentally, the most common profession of those who have been hanged in England is butchers. Who'd have thought that?

Now, whoever said the English were cultured?

On a brighter note (s'cuse the pun), I learned that musicians were paid more than archers during times of battle... lute players, no doubt :)

John was so greedy

2011-07-30T15:26:00.002+01:00

I enjoy being without internet, TV and newspapers while I'm working in France and was shocked to learn of the fragile state of things in the USA, a mass shooting spree and the death of Amy Winehouse when I returned yesterday. It seems too few are taking control and others are out of control. I was reading a non-fiction book about the 1850/60's last week and I get the impression that things haven't changed a great deal.

Strangely, the most alarming, though not the most tragic news was regarding the USA. Can you imagine the impact on the world should they default on their debt commitments?

So, what did I achieve in my media starved world in France this time round? Not much really, but I'm so tired. (details over on the Destination Brittany blog)

Today we walked to Newark and enjoyed the atmosphere of the market. They also had hanging demonstrations, musket shooting, lute playing, sword fighting and everything medieval in the castle grounds.

I was particularly impressed with the area in the castle that King John died so painfully. They say he only had four faults... he was cruel, greedy, lustful and ... and...can't remember the fourth, but I think I have more than that albeit different ones (I think / hope).

I really wished I'd taken my camera...every time I forget to take it, something happens.

I'm glad to be back, for once.

No indispensable man

2011-07-13T13:53:00.011+01:00

When I left Vodafone's employment last month, this verse by Saxon N White Kissinger came to mind even though I was far from the most qualified person in the room and that my leaving would leave a hole that would easily be filled....and it was.

It was also a great reminder of how much I would be missed.

Sometime when you're feeling important;
Sometime when your ego's in bloom
Sometime when you take it for granted
You're the best qualified in the room,
Sometime when you feel that your going
Would leave an unfillable hole,
Just follow these simple instructions
And see how they humble your soul;
Take a bucket and fill it with water,
Put your hand in it up to the wrist,
Pull it out and the hole that's remaining
Is a measure of how you will be missed.
You can splash all you wish when you enter,
You may stir up the water galore,
But stop and you'll find that in no time
It looks quite the same as before.
The moral of this quaint example
Is do just the best that you can,
Be proud of yourself but remember,
There's no indispensable man.

I'm off to France tomorrow for ten days to work on the house...I wonder if, in my absence, Bev agrees with this blog post title:)

Back to painting

2011-07-08T18:19:00.002+01:00

Today's efforts...This is Featherbed Rock on Vane Tempest Beach. I was supposed to do a small sample, but went straight ahead and painted it 24x24. It's about half-way there.

This is a small 6x6 that is now sold, but I couldn't resist strengthening it before sending it off on Monday. When I varnish it tomorrow, those colours are going to explode. Can't wait.

Now how many times am I going to tinker around with this Irish rock pool? I'm a lot happier with the flowing water and am tempted to call it a day.

A favourite scene of mine...a step closer to completion.

I can't wait to get painting full-time, but with France looming next week, I'll have to wait a while longer.

These are too big for my art blog so they'll end up on my website when finished.

We just nipped out about an hour ago for a treat (Chinese takeaway) and got caught in a truly violent storm...thunder claps and all... it was tremendous and we were drenched as we ran into Blockbusters to pick a film for the night. We enjoyed Liam Neesom in Taken, so we picked another of his films just as the ceiling collapsed behind the counter.

We stood with dropped jaws at the torrent of water gushing from above and drenching the staff and stock. It was the most incredible scene and proved most entertaining. There was more water falling than the waterfall in the above painting. Of course, they couldn't operate the till so we eventually left empty handed as they emptied the store of customers and locked the door behind us.

The storm has now passed and the sun is shining.

That was an experience and a half and was one of those times that I wish I had my camera with me because I can't believe what just happened as I now look out of the window.

Couple of treats from last week

2011-07-06T18:11:00.002+01:00

Had a great time last week and just one of the highlights was a first-time walk with my baby sister in Mowbray Park. We paused to sit in both of these which were about 500 yards apart, to read the words.

How would you finish each verse?

Another special date was with my daughter who treated me to a concert for father's day to watch Ron Sexsmith at the Sage.

The big old bridge is Newcastle and the new Millennium Bridge is Gateshead...the Sage Theatre (mirror cladded armadillo) is in the middle above Juli pulling faces...

The old bridge...

We stayed after the concert to watch the various colours of the tilting bridge...Pity my camera doesn't stay focused for bright lights, but it gives an idea...

Juli still in wacky mood...

The bridge fully tilted...how can you tell I didn't take the photo?

I'm a lucky dad, eh?

She did make me work though :)

The full verses from Mowbray Park...

If love was a lion, it would purr like iron, burn bright as orion.

If love was a rose, we'd watch how it grows, learn all the secrets it knows.

A first time experience

2011-07-04T07:55:00.001+01:00

This is what I wrote and should have posted before going to Sunderland ten days ago. I'm back now and feel a new man having had almost 12 hours much needed sleep last night.

22nd June...The drive is finished and looking good, although I think I'd like another sprinkling on top and whack it down nice and firm. I'll have to wait because the gravel is out of stock...as if I care. I welcome the break.

I've never caught a train from Newark to Durham and am looking forward to to this first-time experience. When Chris picks me up at the other end and drives me to Sunderland, I will be at the mercy of Juli for a week or so.

I expect the list of jobs to have already been penned and their completion eagerly anticipated. Roll on tomorrow for my first-time experience...and another chance to be of use.

Enjoying Wimbledon
Enjoying the chocolate from Father's Day
Enjoying not feeling guilty about those extra few strips of chocolate today
Enjoying the warm days
Enjoying waking up
Enjoying ticking off the jobs completed
Enjoying reading blogs
Enjoying hitting the pillow
Enjoying my dreams

Not enjoying feeling zapped around lunchtime and having to push myself.

Can't seem to fit everything into my day anymore.

2011-06-17T18:34:00.001+01:00

Another study of Vane Tempest Beach...or should I say two. I'm fiddling around with it and I shouldn't. This one is the latest version...a little rougher.

I was also busy with the drive...not sure if Bev will be pleased.

It's strange, but I feel as if I'm running out of time even though I have all the time in the world right now.

Sunset

2011-06-15T20:46:00.001+01:00

I'm so happy that I felt hungry to paint today.

Here is an oil study from my sunset walk with Juli along Vane Tempest beach last week.

The walk only lasted an hour or so, but was special because we shared the same space; just the two of us for a change...and the two people fishing...and the two canoeists.

The dying rays of the sun seemed to breathe life into everything it touched. Had Juli not insisted we go, I would have missed an unmissable experience.

Golden Memories

2011-06-13T22:22:00.001+01:00

I was in Sunderland for the funeral service of uncle Ronnie, and it was great to see the family and visit old haunts.

It's been 42 years since I was in Barnes Park so I was glad Juli took me back on the way to pick Susan up from work at the hospital (she works on the ward where I was born).

I was particularly impressed with the way they turned trees upside down, carved faces and painted them ...

I loved these seats...

And this water feature...featuring Hollie...

These reminded me a little of the steps of an Inca Temple...currently used for people to run up and down to get into shape...Juli and Hollie declined.

Me, my sisters, one of my brothers and two Aunties at the get together...

Mowbray Park...The place I used to go for lunch when I first started work...a tramp sat next to me and helped himself to my sandwiches on my very first day. I also used to catch tadpoles in this pond...

This is what's in the glass building (Winter Gardens)...

Emmaleigh and Aimee were singing to the Lady Mayoress with their school friends (in the same park)...

Do you still think Annabelle and Hollie are cute:)

Spent some time at sunset with Juli at Vane Tempest Beach (six minute drive)...

Met a Leeds lass, fishing...

A golden memory to go with the rest over the past few days.

End of the road

2011-06-07T15:01:00.000+01:00

The football season has finished and Sunderland rallied to take 10th spot. Stadia across the country are now being used for other events.

Recently, the girls went to see 'Take That' with Robbie Williams at the Stadium of Light (Sunderland's ground), and me and the boys went to the 'Monster Jam' at Pride Park (Derby County's ground). We then all met up at our house for a family get-together and a walk along the river on the Sunday.

I tried and failed to upload a video of the monster jam. It was brilliant...and very loud.

The past two weeks have been hectic even though I'm officially unemployed. My work with Vodafone finished last Tuesday, but I've been working hard with all the jobs around the house which are never finished. I'm looking forward to having employment again so that I can have time to relax and paint:)

It's the end of the road for our rose arch...it's currently being supported with rope until reinforcements arrive.

An extra visit from Juli, Danny, Aimee Abs and Hollie meant a welcome break for me...Juli is inside trying to educate her grandma on using the controls of the armchair she's brought her (not an easy task) Annabelle and Hollie opted for me and the front garden seat while Danny and Aimee settled in front of the computer.

I've been busy building two brick pillars in the front garden to match the others so that the twisted fence panels can be fixed to them to straighten them out. I would prefer a brick wall, but I don't have enough old bricks...they are hard to find. Here they are all stained and straight...I just have the tops of the pillars to do. The gravel has just arrive so I'll be busy with the drive now.

I went into the loft to try and find my extension cable and work hat. I found neither, but came down with millions of old photographs to sort. It's so good to have a visual reminder of all the good times bringing up a family...I never photograph bad times although I do tend to capture our kids having a strop from time to time:)

Tomorrow I'll be off to Sunderland to attend the funeral of Uncle Ronnie who passed away while we were having our family walk along the river. No, he wasn't with us...he was back home in Sunderland at the time of our walk here in Newark.

Here I go again...regretting not spending more time with my uncle...the last one in the family. He was quite a character with a wicked sense of humour. I really should have found the time in this time-vanishing world of mine.

quoteflections: Willing to Grow

2011-05-27T18:44:00.003+01:00

I have never watched an Oprah show, but was sufficiently impressed with the content of her final show to include the link via Paul's post at Quoteflections.

Perhaps it's because next week I begin a new chapter in my own life in search of the one thing that I was born to experience and feel happy with.

Here is a flavour of the jobs in my life throughout the UK that have placed food on the table (except for that time as a young lad when I bought a Dylan album instead of food...no regrets!)

Window dresser / Drop forge / Retail carpets / Building site / Dunlop / Radial driller / Oil rigs / game machines / Parks and Gardens / Boat manufacture / Raleigh Industries / Musician / Woodworking machinery - Then John Lennon was killed / College / Polytechnic / Self-employed (gallery and framing for 13 years) / Artist / Postman / Agency work / Wildlife Trust / Vodafone / And now back to being an artist and willing to grow... now that financial pressures and family aren't such an issue.

It just so happens that, given the economic conditions, it is the worst possible time to voluntarily walk away from a secure job (I could have stayed with the company in another role), but you have only one life, right!

It also coincides with the art world being particularly hard-hit...who wants a painting ahead of essentials?

I'm listening to my own voice now and will walk my own path. I may have to compromise, but I'm a dab-hand at that.

My goal is simple...to supply five galleries in the UK by the end of the year...with most of July and September taken up with other things. So I have June, October, November and December...one a month!

Am I optimistic? Of course! Am I anxious? No! Will I achieve my goal? Yes!

Here is a painting in the sunset in the woods series I started yesterday (too big for my art blog). It probably needs a little more work. You may recall that I did a small pilot of the same scene. I did another small painting which I've posted, so go take a peek if you are interested.

Did anyone see Oprah's final show?

quoteflections: Willing to Grow: "There is much to like about Oprah, including her courageous departure from her Oprah Winfrey Show. Why leave one of the most successful te..."

Dylan

2011-05-26T13:46:00.006+01:00

The one singer that's been with me since early 1963.

We've grown old together and I bought this album instead of food.

Seen him twice on stage live

Sang his songs

Felt his songs

Lived his songs

I listened to "Not dark yet" while painting today.

If I was as innovative a painter as he is a singer-songwriter, he, along with the rest of the world will be writing about me now and for hundreds of years to come.

Sorry I missed your birthday...I eagerly awaited the party invite which is obviously lost in the post.

http://www.angelfire.com/de/dylanite/index12.html#ooid=VwOHhnMjoxsSczr4enTb5ipLdbeozpQs

Still thinking...

2011-05-23T22:14:00.006+01:00

This was Ameneh Bahrami in 2004. She refused marriage proposals from a fellow student who then stalked her for two years before pouring a bucket of acid over her head resulting in horrific disfigurement and total blindness. Her life had, in her own words, been ruined.

He was convicted of the crime and she was consulted regarding the punishment which, to her, was for both of his eyes to suffer the same fate as hers. She even offered to pour the acid herself but later consented to having doctors carry out the sentence...a reduced sentence (against her will) of the loss of just one eye. The reduced sentence was because women in Iran are considered only half the worth of men.

The sentence should have been carried out on the 14th May but has been postponed indefinitely because of international human rights pressure. I also read that two million euro is being considered by her in order to change her mind regarding the punishment.

In 2002 Bangladesh brought in the death penalty for the same type of crime and introduced strict laws regarding the sale of acids. Apparently the law is rarely enforced.

My view is that where there is a given law and a punishment attached, it should be enforced without question, regardless of how barbaric it may be perceived by other cultures. If it's the law of the land then the law must stand in that land until changed.

For certain crimes in the USA, a life sentence means a life sentence although the death penalty is rarely carried out before the passage of...a lifetime. Even then, it is often commuted to life imprisonment.

In the UK, a life sentence is a joke in terms of justice. It probably represents enough time inside to obtain a degree or pursue a career path after leisurely consultation...all free of taxes, fees or stress. In other words, you can maim or murder and be assured of a roof over your head, warmth, a good education, counselling and regularly fed...all for free. You may even want to write a book or two. Soon there may be the added bonus of being able to vote and enjoy even greater freedom. For many, the incentive is greater to be inside than out. During this time, your victim is often lifeless and their family and friends going through endless torment and living hell.

Christine's view...lock em up and throw away the key.

Karen's view...she'll have to remind me, but I think it was a little more Christian.

My view...work darn hard to help change our pathetic laws and, once they are updated to favour the victim as opposed to the criminal, stick with the penalty given without the farce of reduced sentences through good behaviour via greedy, mealy-mouthed lawyers bent on making a quid or two.

Prevention is the key, as prison is expensive and does little or nothing to rehabilitate or change behaviour if surveys and studies are to be believed. Turn the issue of prevention over to the private sector perhaps and allow them to utilise seized assets of all criminal activities along with other financial government incentives, based on results. Allow government to introduce legislation that may be contributing to criminal and violent behaviour...TV content, violent games etc! The whole picture needs to be viewed from every angle with international support if necessary. Those in authority need to be more authoritative than authoritarian, and to get a grip on things.

I speak as a tired Englishman who hasn't entirely lost hope of a solution, but is sickened by the way in which British justice is floundering.

I'm unsure about the criminally insane...perhaps a lethal injection if there is no hope...just not sure.

I also think that many officials involved with Human Rights are over-stretching themselves to the point of ridicule...perhaps a lethal injection for them too...if there is no hope:)

Well, well, well...we've just turned the news on and the topic is Human Rights.

I'm not against human rights, so long as there is balance and that the rights of victims are upheld above all else.

For me, more justice than vengeance. Surely there is no place for an eye for an eye mentality?

Bread winner

2011-05-20T16:57:00.002+01:00

Another painting too big for my original art blog.

A couple of years ago I caught this little fellow doing his best to get some of the bread we were throwing but he was just too slow to catch anything. He was the runt of the family by the looks of it, but we didn't leave until he got a mouthful.

On the subject of bread winners...next week is my last before redundancy kicks in. Why do I feel on top of the world about this? I really should (and will) look for another job once Summer is out. I may even step up the painting, rather than suffer a job I'm not likely to enjoy. Either way, I expect to be working again before too long.

As this is a journal, the news that has shocked me over the past week is regarding the woman who wants the man who threw acid into her face (because she refused his marriage proposals) to suffer the same fate as she did. What was even more shocking was the attitude of most of the phone-in listeners. Vengeance is pretty big with a lot of people.

The other was the beheading of a poor unsuspecting woman, the details of which I'm sure everyone is aware.

I'm currently listening to Chris Tarrant (who I dislike) and will be glad when Steve Wright returns next week. Isn't it funny how the sound of one person's voice can annoy while another's can entertain and soothe?

I'll also be glad when Jon (my son) returns from London tonight, as he left his car directly and not perfectly parked outside our house early this morning and caught the train.

It's FRIDAY!! Am I the only one who wants, needs and is planning a great weekend?

Rescued

2011-05-14T08:59:00.001+01:00

Two Irish mountain pools that I started painting last year but ruined by overpainting were revisited yesterday and now I consider them finished. Some elements are not as successful as originally painted, but some are...I'll settle for a draw.

These are not strictly 'Daily' paintings and are too big anyway to be included on my art blog, so they will go straight to my website.

I did manage to paint one little sketch and include it on my art blog yesterday, so check it out art lovers.

Right! I'm off into the garden for therapy.

Back home

2011-05-14T08:35:00.000+01:00

Okay, Blogger has reinstated the original post so I have deleted the replacement.

Rendering and painting the wall was one of the jobs I was determined to finish while in France last week (see Destination Brittany blog for details and more photos).
This photo was in the beginning, but after we cleared the ground a lot. The stone has now been cleaned and pointed, windows raised, re-tiled the 'green' section of the roof and built three dormer windows.

As it is now...with the grass not looking a lot better. The guttering, replacing tiles, building the stone circle around the oak, building the stone retaining wall and laying the patio will hopefully be done before the year is out.

I'm just about back to normal now after feeling really tired from tackling the long list of jobs out there.

It wasn't all work I hasten to add. I read a book, two newspapers, played games, visited friends, watched three DVD's, had walks, bike rides, mini motor-scooter and midi motorbike rides, Watched Man.U get to the Champion's League Final from a bar in Josselin, visited interesting places (including the cemetery I hope to end up in) and visited three beaches...laying and falling asleep on two.

Add all the jobs to the above and it's no wonder I was tired.

Thoughts

2011-04-21T12:52:00.003+01:00

A possible perception of a Brit might be someone who is OTT, base, foul-mouthed, boozing, brainless and brash.

An Englishman... perhaps more refined, reserved, rounded, romantic and blessed with a unique and wicked sense of humour as opposed to being pompous, pampered, proud and priggish.

Being a bit of everything is nearer the mark, I fear.

I hope everyone resists tarring me with the same brush as a Brit, though...I'm good old fashioned English.

This was just one thought rattling around my brain today (Wednesday) and lingered for a while before passing through.

Another thought...there is a difference between a turnip and a swede...different taste, texture, size and colour. I have an intense dislike of both, even though raw turnip straight from the field probably kept me alive in my early years. Of the two, swede is a clear winner in the totally disgusting category.

Another thought...there are so many things we have today that weren't around when I was born. I googled them and felt very, very old. To give you an idea...
TV / Anything plastic / Anything cordless (which is usually plastic anyway) / Central heating / Scanners, printers or photocopiers / Microwave ovens / Anything digital / Computers and for me, at least...electricity.

Another thought...someone I work with will be around my current age in forty years time and could be talking as I am to him now, to someone as young as he is now. I will be long gone, of course. I envy him his forty years. this thought outstayed it's welcome and I wondered how long I have left.

Another thought...a light went out when Robert Brault retired from posting his original quotes today. I thought how good it would be to categorise all of his quotes as an easy personal reference...it's something I've wanted to do for such a long time as I can never find the quote I need when I needed it most. Actually, perhaps I should first seek permission before I fall foul of copyright restrictions.

I think this time he really is serious about quitting regular blog entries. He'll be missed. If you are not familiar with his quotes, check his blog...you will not be disappointed. (Shortcut to Robert Brault Reader in the sidebar to the right).

Also thinking about France...just one more day to go!

Actually, this is now Thursday and I've been running around with last minute preparations. I've been in the garden, sharpening an axe and now I need to cut the grass...not with the axe. :)

MIL was a bit confused this morning as she thought it was Friday and was upset she had missed her hair appointment. All is well...I convinced her it wasn't Friday. I reckon she's sufficiently pleased with me to warrant a chocolate egg for the journey. Darn it, I'd better go and get a couple in case it doesn't cross her mind.

Goodness knows how she will get on with our proxy votes for the AV referendum next week. We haven't told her yet that she will be voting on our behalf.

Feeling seriously chilled now, even though the car isn't packed.

No longer feeling chilled now that we are trying to get everything in the car.

Everything packed...a miracle!

Happy days! Just a few hours sleep and we'll be on our way.

Way too long...

2011-04-17T08:24:00.003+01:00

I had a great day yesterday helping out with Jon and Serene's house move.

Feeling a little sad as I woke with the back of my right hand covering my left eye. I just lay there thinking of four sisters in our expanded family...Pollyanna, Tammy, Serene and Naomi...such a diversity of life experience and personal challenges. An online journal sometimes means I am unable to be as personal as I'd like in recording my feelings, but perhaps I may be able to expand another time.

The sun is up, it's Sunday and I'm off to church for my fix. You may think Mormons don't study the Bible but this year is all about the New Testament. I'm learning so much about myself and life in these pages.

Feeling good right now, especially about next week...Friday in particular as we jump in the car and point it in the direction of France. There will be a smile on my face as I turn the ignition key. Has it really been half a year since our last visit?

Too long...way too long.

At work but not working.

2011-04-11T20:16:00.000+01:00

A new day and a new work location for me as I move from this glass house...

To this one...

It's a much nicer working environment (we are just a little deeper in at the top of the stairs to the right) but we have absolutely no work to do. We see the initials of those in India against the emails we should be working on but we are not allowed to pull them.

The team have received their official notification of redundancy for the 31st May and mine will no doubt be in my hand today...if they remember I'm still here.

It's a strange situation. We who have given so much are now considered surplus to requirement. I'm pleased for India, but feel the hierachy could have been more sensitive and appreciative of what the UK workforce they are discarding has achieved. Yes, they offered us alternative employment but being on the phone to irate customers every second of the day is something I would find difficult to get out of bed for. Other jobs on offer were equally daunting.

It really is time for change and I'm up for the challenge of what might lay ahead of me. I feel bright and optimistic even though there is a global tendancy to paint the worst possible picture. I suppose if I had a mortgage and debt, I would feel differently, but thankfully I haven't and I don't. I feel so fortunate to have such freedom. I do feel for those who are younger with families to provide for.

I think I would like an interesting little part time job when I finish here as I don't want to paint full-time until we are living in France. It needs to be built up steadily...perhaps another year.

When all around we see anarchy, war, poverty, waste, unemployment, uncertaintly, disaster, devastation, murder, and mayhem, am I asking too much for simplicity, security and a happy existence or is my little bright protected bubble about to burst?

I suspect that the world will be just as I choose to see it, regardless of what happens...which means I'll be fine.

Breathe a Tuesday

2011-04-04T21:13:00.001+01:00

Last night I was sorting through an old drawer full of papers that I'd shoved out of the way over the years, and found this poem of sorts.

I have no idea why I wrote it or why I gave it this title. Perhaps it was a Monday morning (I used to hate Monday mornings...still do to a lesser degree.)

My October 17th (1988)

Gone the heart of the free

Now hurt, held in timeless tender trap

Weeping, yet silent

And sure to meet a glittering birthday in defeat.

Today was not a good day even though the gallery sold one of my paintings.

I spent all day talking to various people in India as they attempted to make all the systems available to me. I was locked out of them all. I had no authority. I had no work. I was not recognised. I couldn't even use the internet.

It was so strange to hear the breathing of someone so far away accessing my desktop and moving around my screen. It occurred to me that the person sitting next to him wouldn't hear him as well as little old me tucked away in the UK. I was having an experience that was denied everyone that had ever lived up to a few years ago. Incredible, yet it soon bored and frustrated me. It was the Monday blues kicking in and it was a long, long day.

I was still on the phone...this time to an indian I could barely understand who kept me at my desktop long after everyone else had gone home.

I arrived home to see the car missing. I didn't have my door key and after twenty minutes of knocking, MIL eventually heard me and opened the door...just as the car pulled in the drive. Bev had had a tough day too and needed to stay behind. We are both ready to see this day off.

Come breathe a Tuesday into our tired Monday minds.

New gallery views...day and night.

2011-03-30T07:31:00.000+01:00

Solved!

2011-03-28T21:52:00.003+01:00

"Every word is like an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness".

Sadly, the budding graffiti artist who scribbled on a wall between Morrisons and Newark Market Square wasn't using his (or her) own material. The real poet was Samuel Beckett. And I know it wasn't Beckett himself 'cos he never shopped at Morrisons, visited Newark or lived beyond 1989.

Samuel Beckett was born on Good Friday, April 13, 1906, near Dublin, Ireland. Raised in a middle class, Protestant home, the son of a quantity surveyor and a nurse, he was sent off at the age of 14 to attend the same school which Oscar Wilde had attended. Looking back on his childhood, he once remarked, "I had little talent for happiness."
Beckett was consistent in his loneliness. The unhappy boy soon grew into an unhappy young man, often so depressed that he stayed in bed until mid afternoon. He was difficult to engage in any lengthy conversation--it took hours and lots of drinks to warm him up--but the women could not resist him. The lonely young poet, however, would not allow anyone to penetrate his solitude. He once remarked, after rejecting advances from James Joyce's daughter, that he was dead and had no feelings that were human.
In 1928, Samuel Beckett moved to Paris, and the city quickly won his heart. Shortly after he arrived, a mutual friend introduced him to James Joyce, and Beckett quickly became an apostle of the older writer. At the age of 23, he wrote an essay in defense of Joyce's magnum opus against the public's lazy demand for easy comprehensibility. A year later, he won his first literary prize--10 pounds for a poem entitled "Whoroscope" which dealt with the philosopher Descartes meditating on the subject of time and the transiency of life. After writing a study of Proust, however, Beckett came to the conclusion that habit and routine were the "cancer of time", so he gave up his post at Trinity College and set out on a nomadic journey across Europe.
Beckett made his way through Ireland, France, England, and Germany, all the while writing poems and stories and doing odd jobs to get by. In the course of his journies, he no doubt came into contact with many tramps and wanderers, and these aquaintances would later translate into some of his finest characters. Whenever he happened to pass through Paris, he would call on Joyce, and they would have long visits, although it was rumored that they mostly sit in silence, both suffused with sadness.
Beckett finally settled down in Paris in 1937. Shortly thereafter, he was stabbed in the street by a man who had approached him asking for money. He would learn later, in the hospital, that he had a perforated lung. After his recovery, he went to visit his assailant in prison. When asked why he had attacked Beckett, the prisoner replied "Je ne sais pas, Monsieur", a phrase hauntingly reminiscent of some of the lost and confused souls that would populate the writer's later works.
During World War II, Beckett stayed in Paris--even after it had become occupied by the Germans. He joined the underground movement and fought for the resistance until 1942 when several members of his group were arrested and he was forced to flee with his French-born wife to the unoccupied zone. In 1945, after it had been liberated from the Germans, he returned to Paris and began his most prolific period as a writer. In the five years that followed, he wrote Eleutheria, Waiting for Godot, Endgame, the novels Malloy, Malone Dies, The Unnamable, and Mercier et Camier, two books of short stories, and a book of criticism.
Samuel Beckett's first play, Eleutheria, mirrors his own search for freedom, revolving around a young man's efforts to cut himself loose from his family and social obligations. His first real triumph, however, came on January 5, 1953, when Waiting for Godot premiered at the Théâtre de Babylone. In spite of some expectations to the contrary, the strange little play in which "nothing happens" became an instant success, running for four hundred performances at the Théâtre de Babylone and enjoying the critical praise of dramatists as diverse as Tennessee Williams, Jean Anouilh, Thornton Wilder, and William Saroyan who remarked, "It will make it easier for me and everyone else to write freely in the theatre." Perhaps the most famous production of Waiting for Godot, however, took place in 1957 when a company of actors from the San Francisco Actor's Workshop presented the play at the San Quentin penitentiary for an audience of over fourteen hundred convicts. Surprisingly, the production was a great success. The prisoners understood as well as Vladimir and Estragon that life means waiting, killing time and clinging to the hope that relief may be just around the corner. If not today, then perhaps tomorrow.
Beckett secured his position as a master dramatist on April 3, 1957 when his second masterpiece, Endgame, premiered (in French) at the Royal Court Theatre in London. Although English was his native language, all of Beckett's major works were originally written in French--a curious phenomenon since Beckett's mother tongue was the accepted international language of the twentieth century. Apparently, however, he wanted the discipline and economy of expression that an acquired language would force upon on him.
Beckett's dramatic works do not rely on the traditional elements of drama. He trades in plot, characterization, and final solution, which had hitherto been the hallmarks of drama, for a series of concrete stage images. Language is useless, for he creates a mythical universe peopled by lonely creatures who struggle vainly to express the unexpressable. His characters exist in a terrible dreamlike vacuum, overcome by an overwhelming sense of bewilderment and grief, grotesquely attempting some form of communication, then crawling on, endlessly.
Beckett was the first of the absurdists to win international fame. His works have been translated into over twenty languages. In 1969 he was awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature. He continued to write until his death in 1989, but the task grew more and more difficult with each work until, in the end, he said that each word seemed to him "an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness."

Census

2011-03-27T19:19:00.002+01:00

By law, every household in England has to fill out a census form every ten years.

Today is the day so if you are planning to come and stay with us tonight, be quick because I've already started filling the form out and I have to include you.

FINISHED!

How personal is that? They've asked for tons of information which was never included in past census returns.

We had a good laugh though.

Graffiti

2011-03-26T23:01:00.003Z

I saw this quote scrawled on a wall in Newark town centre and now it's playing on my mind. I can't recall the complete quote even though I said it to myself four times to commit it to memory. I can't even swear the missing word would complete the quote.

"Words are...(something) to silence and nothingness".

What is the missing word? What is the full quote?

It was in the same area (about a year ago) where someone daubed across the broken window of an unoccupied shop "Fugs did this". I had the impression that it was a sharp wit responsible for the writing but not the breakage. I wonder if both writings separated by a year were from the same hand?

I like to think there is a deep thinking sharp witted opportunist graffiti artist amongst us.

It's no good, I'll have to go back and write it down and perhaps take a photo. What's the betting our town council have already scrubbed the graffiti clean? What am I saying, It's only been a few weeks?

In the meantime, think of a word that might fit and we'll see if you are right when I post the result sometime tomorrow (hopefully). If I've already posted the full quote and photograph, pause for a while to fill in the missing word before reading on.

What are your thoughts about graffiti?

I think some of it is as inspirational as the rest isn't and should be allowed to stay longer than the year or so it takes the council to erase it.

Here we go...it's at the end of this cut-through...

I missed out quite a few words...

"Every word is like an unnecessary stain on silence and nothingness".

World Down Syndrome Awareness Day

2011-03-21T07:19:00.006Z

Today, the 21st March is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day. The date (21/3) represents the 3 copies of chromosome 21, which is unique to people with Down syndrome.

I am very pleased to present this guest post by Madonna Dries Christensen regarding the Many Faces Of Down Syndrome.

When Dean was born in 1952, the doctor didn’t tell his parents that he had Down syndrome. When they were told, at three months, the doctor used the term Mongoloid. He said that Dean wouldn’t live beyond the age of five, and advised an institution. Dean's mother reasoned that if he were going to die young, she would hold him close for whatever time he had. By age eight he was difficult to discipline, and his parents made the heart-wrenching decision to place him in Columbus Developmental Center in Columbus, Ohio.

Dean’s sister, then 11, recalls feeling responsible for him, and that it was stressful having him at home. With the exception of her best friends, kids made fun of Dean. She admits to being relieved when he left, quickly adding that as an adult she realized he gave her something valuable: the gift of empathy, and the calling to pursue a Masters in Special Education.

As an adult, Dean’s IQ was about 35, akin to a two-year-old. He held simple jobs at the Center. He loved being outdoors; he followed sports on television, competed in Special Olympics softball and running, and enjoyed music. His family regularly visited him, and his friends at the Center loved him, too.

Dean died at age 58, in 2010. I’d never met my husband’s nephew. He was, to me, a cute child in grainy black and white photos.

In 2004, my second grandchild was born with DS. Unlike 50 years earlier, my daughter and her husband were flooded with support and information from doctors, family, friends, and even strangers via online networks. We quickly learned about the importance of early intervention in physical and speech therapy. My eyes, mind, and heart were opened to new experiences and challenges.

At three months, Sarah underwent open heart surgery. Post-surgery, her lungs collapsed and she contracted sepsis. She rallied and her heart now functions normally. Fortunately, she has none of the medical problems common to DS, nor is she physically handicapped. She rides a bike with training wheels, swims, dives, hikes, jumps on the trampoline, ice skates, the full gamut of activity. In public, people have approached my daughter and said that watching Sarah gives them hope for the child with DS who has joined their family.

That’s the rosy face of DS. Cognitively, Sarah is not on par with typical peers. Her First Grade schooling is divided between the regular classroom and Special Ed. However, she’s learning to read, does beginning math, attends Sunday school, and participates in Brownie Scouts. She dotes on her younger brother, William, and has friends who have DS and friends who do not. Conner, the boy she loves and who loves her, has DS.

Sarah’s older sister (by 16 months) tends to look after her, but not because of DS; she doesn’t yet comprehend that aspect. It’s her nature to mother children younger and smaller. But my daughter feels that the experience will help Grace understand fairness and compassion. As it did for Dean's sister.

DS is the most common genetic condition. World-wide, about five million people have DS. Unlike earlier eras, we see their distinctive faces on magazine covers and in television and movies. In school, children with DS participate in music, drama, sports, and cheerleading. They are elected Prom King and Queen; they graduate from high school. Some attend college or hold jobs in the community and live independently. A few marry. Some serve as ambassadors for Special Olympics or advocates for awareness. DS is no longer clear-cut black and white; it’s full color, and bursting with life.

An organization called People First encourages us to say “A person with Down syndrome,” not “A Down syndrome person.” Another group is dedicated to erasing the r-word (retarded/retard) from our vocabulary and replacing it with “Respect.” Congress passed a bill to strike the word retarded from federal legislation. We are reminded that DS is not an illness or an affliction, and that people with DS are more like others than different.

Despite the available support, my daughter says, “Having children with special needs can be isolating. People make assumptions about what it’s like—either that it’s horrible or that it’s simply giving a little extra help with homework. It’s neither. With that extra chromosome comes a host of little extras. Imagine any typical parent’s hectic schedule, and then add annual visits to the cardiologist, ophthalmologist, geneticist, and ENT; weekly speech, physical and/or occupational therapy; annual IEP meetings at school; frequent insurance and educational paperwork; extra time looking for clothes that fit (or altering them); and plenty of extra time reminding or assisting with ordinary activities like getting dressed or brushing teeth.

“And there are positive extras: extra bonds with parents in the same situation, extra happiness when your child reaches a long-strived for milestone, extra excitement when your child is invited to a classmate’s party simply because “she’s my friend,” and extra pride when your typical children advocate for their sibling.”

For this grandmother, there is extra love from a little girl who greets me with her big smile and an enthusiastic “Hi, Granny.”

Note from Ken Devine: Madonna is the author of the recently published 'Toys Remembered' the proceeds of all sales being donated to the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia.

I have painted two small 'Soft Toy' paintings which will be auctioned on eBay some time today from my paintings blog, the proceeds of which will be donated to the same association.

Last night...

2011-03-20T21:23:00.004Z

It was actually this morning when we eventually got home and fell into bed with our heads swirling with music and laughter.

We arrived early for the concert at 6:30pm and realised we were too early. The concert started at 8pm so we had a good walk around Southwell to kill some time and also had a lemonade and a cosy chat at a really ancient wooden beamed pub that will be hosting an acoustic event on the 7th April. I'm taking my guitar along for a song.

We were still the first in the queue and sat less than eight feet from Vin. What an evening! So powerful, so funny. The video clip doesn't do justice to the power of his lyrics and passion of his voice.

We had a good chat with him at the interval and joked about the Tyne, Wear and Tees. He being a Teessider and me a Wearsider (also know as a Makkem). 'Typical Makkem', he smiled as he signed a songbook for me that I hadn't paid for yet and turned out to be the only one not for sale because it had a glass-bottom watermark on the cover. He cleared it with his wife and authenticated it by placing his own glass over the mark. He recognised me as a Makkem as we each have our own distinct identity and dialect even though the rest of the country think we all sound the same.

The place only sold real ale so we had to go for a sortie to arrange a hot chocolate.

We were so tired today at church...really, really tired, but no regrets.

I FORGOT TO MENTION YESTERDAY...my paintings have been framed and are now hanging in the gallery at last.

Go to my website if you want to see the paintings up close (kendevine.co.uk)

I'm posting today because tomorrow is a very special day and I have a guest posting here.

Time to relax

2011-03-19T17:02:00.003Z

We've worked in the garden, been to town, sanded and primed the front door and a window, dug under and uprooted a stubborn old bush using a tow-rope, raked and levelled the drive, bagged loads of soil and now we are off to see Vin Garbutt who we last saw about thirty years ago. He's a traditional singer with contemporary content and hails about half an hour from where I was born.

Not everyone likes his style and to be honest, traditional folk isn't my favourite genre, but he's got a foot in both camps...traditional voice with contemporary material. He's down to earth and one of the lads and my kind of person...so funny and sings with a passion. Anyway, it's live acoustic music up front and in your face which is just how we like it.
I think we'll get there early as we've never been to this venue before. No doubt they'll sell soft drinks as well as real ale otherwise it's excommunication tomorrow:)

Surely not in our green and pleasant land

2011-03-15T21:47:00.007Z

I know there is a lot of horror in the news at the moment and this little bit should pale against what else is happening.

All the same, I gasped in disbelief at the news of the 30 cows that were shot by police marksmen in suburbia in full view of children in broad daylight, simply because they had broken out of one field and found refuge in another.

In my mind it's like ordering the execution of a group of toddlers because the ball they are playing with accidentally breaks an already cracked window.

Those who ordered the cull insisted that health and safety along with the welfare of the animals was paramount. They were supposedly traumatised. The poor docile herd were mercilessly gunned down and dragged into trailers as blood trailed and the public watched in horror.

I hope for their sake that tonight's news vindicate them.

I'm not a poet and know little about how verse is constructed. It doesn't rhyme either, but here goes...

Jolly dee the day the deed

When 30 strong break from their field and follow on to pastures green.

Kindly, calm and trusting too

On sunlit field to blankly gaze and swish and blink and gently chew.

Curtains pull and children scream as horror grips the bovine crew

Precisely gunned just where they laid

To help them through the trauma of this reckless escapade.

To this old Englishman such a public spectacle was both unnecessary and offensive if the truth turns out to match what I read.

Bev's comment...Let's hope they don't order the slaughter of the innocents who were genuinely traumatised after being forced to witness such a scene.

My comment on Bev's comment...They'll offer counselling to traumatised schoolchildren, but not to traumatised cows... even an injected sedative got the bullet.

What was I thinking?

2011-03-13T07:58:00.006Z

I woke up this morning thinking about something I now can't remember. It had something to do with Damien Rice and one of his songs 'Cold Water'...or perhaps my not remembering has more to do with old age:)

I'm a big fan of acoustic music and especially when it has feeling and passion. In the 70's I was never away from live scenes like these...usually crammed in a small upstairs pub (even though I didn't drink after '74). There's something about the human condition and inner struggles that I find compelling in song.

'O' was a great album and I wanted to have his next, but my daughter advised against it because of bad language in one of the songs...she tries to protect me these days.

I have loads of iTune cards, so I think I'll go selecting a few...but not today.

Now, what was I thinking as I woke up? It'll be on my mind today while I'm at church doing my best to keep my mind on other things.

We have Martin and Sarah this afternoon with baby Liliya...perhaps they'll distract me sufficiently to be able to recall my first thoughts and feelings of today.

It worked!

A bird was singing and woke me up at 5am (looking at my watch was the key to remembering). I tried to get back to sleep but it wouldn't let me, so I asked it to stop from under my pillow. It didn't so I asked again loudly just as one of the lines in Damien's song came to mind, which was added (in tune) to my request...'Can you hear me now?'

I must have drifted off because the next thing I knew was waking up feeling a bit rough and thinking how we know for sure that birds are really singing when they make such a racket. If it was singing, why do they sing the same song all their lives. Don't they ever get fed up with it and have the urge to expand their repertoire?

Bumps, balm and bargains

2011-03-04T16:06:00.001Z

The phone rang and I rushed downstairs to answer it, but it was one of those annoying cold calls. I rushed back upstairs mumbling and annoyed with myself for answering it. Thats when I fell upstairs bruising my toe, scraping my knee and almost disjointing the other. I sat on the stairs writhing in pain for ages.

to console myself, I nibbled at these as I painted (and listening to Steve Wright in the afternoon)...Butterscotch is my favourite.

And I haven't shown all of the wrappers...

I was also thinking about the bargains that Tess (Willow) seems to pick up and thought of my own recent good fortune.

We wanted a new bin for the kitchen and I fancied a cylinder metal one, so I trundled off with some plastic in search of the best. I found one priced £38 but noticed that the lid didn't stay down. Having searched out an assistant who robbed a spare catch from another box (as per my suggestion), I convinced him somehow to drop it down to £22. I then learned that the container had been dropped on delivery and that most of the bins were damaged. I'm not exactly sure how I managed to convince him to let me have it for £10, but I did...

It's magic...you just press the lid and it pops open. I love it.

My other bargain is more of a discovery really. My Mach 3 replacement shaver blades cost a staggering £6 for four at the cheapest place I can find. Bev noticed that at Aldi there was a similar product with replacement blades at £2 for 10. I tried it out this week and can honestly say that I will not be going back to Gillette. The shaver itself is better made than the Aldi one but the blades are still the triple version and one blade has lasted me all week.

What I really like about it is that I can easily get to a place just under my nose that the Gillette really struggles with.

I just love a bargain...especially one that will consistently save me money.

I know this is really petty when you consider what's happening around the globe at the moment, but it makes me feel happy as I sit here with my throbbing toe and sore knees.

End of a busy week

2011-02-26T21:07:00.002Z

Last night was Sarah's birthday party at Frankie & Benny's and the family from all over England attended...except me! I had previously arranged my third activity; Great British Ball, Swimming Gala and...wait for it...a Quiz Night. Even though I missed out being with the family, I had a great time and eventually got home at five to eleven and fell into bed at 1:15am.

The quiz.at break time...

The question on the screen is...'How is 99 written using the binary system? The happiest team were the eventual winners (Superman t-shirt).

This morning while Bev took the grandkids to Jolly Jungle to let off steam, my daughter Juli treated me to a 'Daddy & Daughter' breakfast at that lovely place where a past King of England visited (What's good enough for royalty is good enough for us). Our glasses steamed up when we arrived because we walked all the way there, arm in arm in the drizzle. The building is dated about 1600 and is a fine example of tradition timber-frame construction.

That's better...

The breakfast...a full English with hot chocolate and whipped cream was fit for any King and the occasion more precious than the crown jewels.

As we walked back home, this pavement caught my eye (it's outsider the gallery where my paintings will hang once they are framed).

I replaced Bev at JJ so she could go into town and Juli spent some time shopping with Chris.

I know this isn't particularly exciting for blog readers, but it's one of those journal entries of mine.

We've just got back from dropping Ash & Amber's new second-hand car off at Mansfield and have had a KFC.

It has been a busy week and I'm exhausted...but happy.

All news...good, bad or indifferent.

2011-02-17T19:50:00.001Z

Yes, my job has officially gone to India and even though the headlines mention the creation of 300+ jobs here in Newark, I have decided against having one of them. It's time to move on. I know it sounds crazy considering the current climate, but I only need a little part-time job really. If I was a young man, I'd grit my teeth and force myself to enjoy it, but I'm not and I won't, because I can't. It's bad enough that I have to wait until June to finish.

Notice the headline of the accident on the A1 on Monday. While some poor lorry driver was fighting for his life and losing, I was enjoying a romantic traffic-beating walk and making plans for the future. I wonder if he had plans for Valentine's evening too? It's sad.

On our walk, we noticed the new(ish) plush Italian restaurant we liked so much, had closed. We later found out that the owner had died suddenly and the family aren't carrying on with the restaurant.

The Bridge Inn (article above) is less than a five minute walk along the road we live on. I used to go there to watch Sunderland play football on the big screen. I'm glad to see it go as I associate it with frustration, anguish, disbelief and anger :)
I took this picture myself. It was the chimney stack I wanted to catch on film but the camera took too long to switch on.

Look at what I noticed last week when I received my copy...do you see anything wrong with the title?

The good news for today is that Trent Galleries have taken 11 of my paintings.

It was a Happy Valentine

2011-02-14T21:19:00.000Z

Roses are red

And some tulips are black

We'll go for a walk

and maybe a snack

I'm bowling you over, aren't I?

Accidents on the A1 either side of Newark meant total gridlock which prevented us from driving to the bowling alley.

We did go for the walk later...through town and by the river.

Bev by lamplight

It was cold but nice.

Hot chocolate, a snack and snuggle on the sofa.

Intruders?

2011-02-12T20:09:00.002Z

In the last post I said the lions don't bite. I meant to say they don't fight. Perhaps that's why no one guessed it was from the death of a clown, by the Kinks.

Here I am again, this time watching the Sunderland v Spurs game. I just never learn. It's a very good game. Sunderland are superb. We lost! Time to move on.

It has been a tiring week. It started with Bev elbowing me in the ribs at 3:00am and shouting 'Hello!". She heard someone downstairs and wanted me to investigate. I've no idea why she shouted a welcome to our intruders, but I sprang out of bed like a gazelle in order to surprise them. First I had to figure out where I was, then put my glasses on, then my slippers, then my dressing-gown, then find something to whack them with if necessary etc! Did I say gazelle?

The intruder turned out to be MIL not being able to sleep and making an uncharacteristic foray into our part of the house to get something from her trolley. Lucky for her she was back in bed by the time I got downstairs. Then again, perhaps I was the lucky one.

Spent the rest of the night with an overactive brain and eyes wide open. I've tried in vain to recoup some of those lost hours.

Lat week I finished this book...

I agree with The Daily Mail...'Touching, disgraceful, funny. Highly recommended"

I received my copy of THE book yesterday (with my contribution starting on p41)...

So far it has been touching, disgraceful, funny. Highly recommended.

The film of The Help comes out in the USA in August and I'm really looking forward to it, although I think they chose the wrong book to make a film :)

Time for a quick look around bloggyland while Bev is babysitting over in Mansfield.

On the edge

2011-02-01T19:20:00.004Z

Random thought...
I've only ever had one cut-throat razor shave in a proper barber's chair with frothy lather and leather strap...just like the western movies. It was in the back streets of Naples and was watched, filmed and cheered by friends.

The above random thought barged in, just as I was thinking about the movie we are going to watch tonight... which happens to clash with the Sunderland v Chelsea football game.

Could it be that listening to a commentary on ANY Sunderland game has me on the edge of my seat with nerves jangling, just as they were with the cut-throat razor experience? Add to this, the fact that we have sold our main striker and Chelsea have just bought the best striker on the planet for £50 million.

Somehow, I'm not expecting a close shave.

I know I always say that the result doesn't matter as much as the performance and passion, but I'm really deluding myself because it does have an effect on me.

Straight after The King's Speech, I'll rush back to catch the result because I still believe in miracles.

Random quiz...where are these words from?

"The lions they don't bite and the tigers won't roar'.

Let's hope it's true of Chelsea and that Sunderland are razor sharp tonight.

Every one a winner

2011-01-31T19:56:00.003Z

Last week was the first activity of the year that I had a big hand in organising. It was our church regional swimming gala for Derby, Eastwood, Boston, Lincoln and Nottingham. What a great night it was for aged 12 to 35+.

Over the years, each of our children have participated, and I even became the high dive champion once (a long time ago). Martin was the only Devine representative this year, as the rest have moved out of the area. How proud we were to see him win races and what lovely memories were relived covering the past two decades as we drove home.

We've seen little kiddies return to compete as adults along with their own kiddies. A really fantastic family and friends activity.

I almost lost my voice, again!

People arriving and getting organised with the certificate and scoring officials...Nigel and his wife Jan and Sarah Devine...plus Bev. 1st, 2nd and 3rd places receive certificates and every other position gains points for their team.

Who's trying to get my attention?

Martin (face showing) and Adam were tied first place for this one.

As the official starter for over 50 races, I was too busy to take any more photos, but I can tell you it was a night to remember with a fantastic atmosphere.

On the final race of the evening, our friend Paul clawed back almost half a length to pave the way for Martin to complete the final length of the men's relay. Martin came from way behind to win the race and send us in raptures.

Those relays are a joy to watch.

The church that I attend won the overall gala.

My recommendation for a good read (update)

2011-01-29T08:51:00.002Z

I included some childhood memories last year on this blog as a countdown to going to France.The author of this book, Madonna Dries Christensen must have liked what I wrote because she made contact through Foreign Quang to invite me to submit a couple of childhood memories for her new book to be published 2010/11.

The book is published, and guess what? Yes, I'm in it, recollecting my childhood toys! How cool is that? The whole world will be reading about me and the rest of the contributors.

It's available now from Amazon, so I guess my family won't be stuck for a gift for my birthday which is fast coming up. Actually, I can't wait that long. I'm ordering my copy now because my memory is fading...as it does, and I'm struggling to recollect what I wrote...it's an age thing.

You just never know where blogging takes you.

Thank you Madonna and Randi for thinking of me.

I'll be telling all my friends, Madonna, so that soon you will be rich and famous and shortlisted for all kinds of honours...or should I say MORE rich and famous?

Did I say it's available now on Amazon? :)

I totally forgot to mention the fact that all royalties from this book will go to the Down Syndrome Association of Northern Virginia. I just can't resist saying that for the price of a small pizza here in the UK, you can buy this wonderful book, have a fantastic read AND make a difference in someone's life...food for thought, eh?

Thank you

2011-01-28T08:17:00.003Z

As a result of your quality worldwide feedback, I will probably...

Get rid of the gimmicky bounce on the text pages (it was beginning to irritate me, too).
Reduce the animation.
Increase the size of the font (but I'll keep it because I like it way better than the alternatives).
Insert an 'archive' gallery.

I suppose the speed of loading will largely depend on operating systems, but I'm fairly pleased, by all accounts, that it loaded in reasonable time. I can now improve it by reducing the file size of the images.

Thank you.

Oh, and what a pleasant surprise to hear from our long lost friend, Julie (French-Fancy).

And...Kelly (Septembermom) seems to have set the world on fire with her debut vlog. How cool was that!

I don't think the world is ready or can cope with even the thought of a vlog from Ken Devine.

Dancing through life

2011-01-20T20:58:00.003Z

Spluttering and struggling to stay bright...like a sparkler about to fizzle out.

A great weekend in Sunderland prematurely brought to an end with Bev feeling ill. Roles reversed tonight as I feel a tad yuk here in Newark while Bev is as bright as a button helping her friend with genealogy in Nottingham.

Finished this yesterday...

Very readable and yes, charming. It made me laugh a lot and count my blessings.

I'm about to open 'The Help'...a book with a film release later this year in the States. My daughter recommended it and, to make sure I read it, bought it as a gift.

I had the chance to visit my sister Autumn (known most of her life as Carol) on Saturday. She had heart problems in 2010 and it was so good to see her in relative good health and speaking. This photo was from her apartment living room window which I opened and promptly felt dizzy. It shows where I was born, where I played, the various places I lived in care, my first flat, my first job, 2nd job, 3rd job, location of accidents 1,2 and 3, location of first kiss, first scuffle, first scar, first friend and a thousand memories. The unseen view to the right (on another photograph) shows the parks and other places I lived and another thousand memories.

The sound of the gulls and smell of the sea air filled me with nostalgia. It's a pity I didn't have a walk along the long sandy beaches.

I was running late and had to dash to pick Chris up and meet up with Bev, Juli and the family in Newcastle.

A photo of inside the Metro Centre (Newcastle). The place is so vast and manic that I came away totally exhausted. I didn't manage to find what I needed, unlike Bev (probably why she felt ill the next day). The kids in the photo were flung right up to the first floor. It was so unfair that it was just for kids.

Friday night was a really special night for us all, but I'm unable to upload any video footage at the moment. I'll try later.

Elizabeth...now in her 61st year, danced, laughed and cried...with the rest of us.

Mixed bag of a week

2011-01-14T09:32:00.001Z

You're a star...at last!

1. My reward for a 90% success rate for achieving last years personal goals wasn't so much the trophy as the company I was with on Monday evening.

2. Not once, twice, but THREE times I wiped out my website with the press of the SAME button. The only thing I learned was that I still mumble in frustration and shout at myself in disbelief.

3. Made a meal for Bev (and me) from one of the new Christmas gift cook books...my star is rising! However, I burned the potatoes while trying to sort my website out and had to re-do them.

4. A week or so ago, I let the opportunity pass to buy a presentation box of tableware for £12 at an Help the Aged charity shop. I wanted to feature the items in future paintings. I regretted not buying it and began mumbling to myself. ( that's when I noticed that I'm mumbling a lot these days).

5. I received an early birthday present from David and Eileen...it was the presentation box of tableware that I thought had gone forever! Eileen works at the shop and thought of me. So Happy!

6. Going to Sunderland today for a surprise 60th party for my sister. Making a weekend of it.

7. I've felt as though I've had to play catch-up a lot this week and haven't had chance to visit blogland much.

This weekend is my pause button. The replay button is for Monday.

Happy weekend everyone!

Nuts

2011-01-06T20:10:00.000Z

A swollen nose, stomach pains, cold sore, nightmares and the flu marked the end of 2010 and the start of what promises to be a great 2011.

Nose almost back to its normal misshapen, bent and twisted shape and everything else has virtually disappeared. If I get through tonight without a nightmare, I'll be well away!

Is it too many nuts, chocolate or blogging that cause bad dreams?

Nuts, I reckon!

War!

2011-01-03T09:52:00.003Z

As one door gently clicks shut behind me, another swings open, leaving me no option but to walk on. It looks fairly bright out there, but don't think for one moment I haven't noticed another year lost...or is that another golden year of wonderful memories and experiences gained?

I'll soon be facing life as a 59 year old. It sounds quite old and I can scarce resist the temptation to count how many years might still be left in the pot.

I see storm clouds in the distance but perhaps its my failing eyesight. Maybe they'll dissipate if they are real. If not, there'll be a silver lining or two.

No worries! I've gained more than I've lost. I'm ready for whatever is thrown at me.

The year may have ended in sickness, but it didn't mask the happy family time we had. We are exhausted and unprepared for a seemingly sudden return to the rigours of normality, but what the heck!

Bev is at work today for the first time this year and I've decided to start and finish a job that I know will crack her face with the biggest smile. It may be my last day of holiday, but it's worth the sacrifice.

MIL...short for mother in law, in case others are as confused as Karen, usually drags her dripping shopping trolley through the hall and kitchen into her carpeted living room. This infuriates an already bad-tempered Bev (just kidding!)

Today, I will clear under the stairs and build a cupboard just for the trolley.

No more tram lines in the carpet. No more chipped paint as a result of poor manoeuvring. No more dents in the fridge door. No more clutter in her bathroom...yes, that's where she keeps it. Bev will no longer feel compelled to hire a cleaner every time MIL has visitors.

Change doesn't come cheap. MIL will kick against progress. My name will be synonymous with the dirt I'm trying to avoid on her carpet. There will be glances heading in my direction that could be mistaken for missiles and my impending birthday may be blighted with the lack of a present.

Perhaps war isn't the best way to start a new year, but the season of goodwill has ended regarding MIL and her out-of-control trolley.

I'll post a photo later today if the campaign is successful.

Success!

Still bits to do, unfortunately.

Christmas at last!

2010-12-24T17:16:00.001Z

After a very cold day in town for last minute shopping, we're glad to be back in the warmth. Everything is cosy and we're getting excited. Miracle on 43rd Street rocks! So does Helen Mirren in 'The Queen'. Two virtual back to back films is a first, for me. Feeling totally relaxed as I go into 'A Christmas Carol'

Happy Christmas everyone!

See you all soon.

Speed Awareness Course

2010-12-16T16:28:00.007Z

After a turn-for -the-worse grotty weather drive to a place I've never been or will want to return to, I found myself sitting- alcohol anonymous style- with 15 other offenders, some of whom I perceived as guarded, offended, resigned, terse, cold, loose and warm. We were thrown together here at the speed awareness course, courtesy of our breaking the speed limit a month or two back. We were as a gathering of unwilling jurors at our own trial.

We were a good mix of young and old as well as differing in shape, sex, colour, opinion and attitude.

I found it hilarious to be each made to share the circumstance of our offence...and the speed we were clocked.

In the end we all agreed that our justifications for extra speed were only excuses. We were guilty! The offended became enlightened and softened, and soon there was a warmth and good spirit in evidence. We'd come to terms with and were at one with officialdom. It was a fair cop! Even the impeccable man in his personalised number plated jaguar, lost his arrogance and distance. I swear it was good material for a sustainable comedy series.

There was a good deal of healthy interaction. It was good. We all wore bold christian name tags and, once everyone became fully aware I was to be called Ken and not Kenneth, the presentations, discussions and videos commenced and the barriers and defences dropped.

I left, four hours later, wishing them all to be on my Christmas card list.

The only unnerving experience was regarding the official visitor who was tucked away in the corner silently taking notes. I caught her on many occasions glaring at me. I'm sure she wasn't staring at others with the same insane intensity. I thought perhaps it was the frequency in which I attempted to inject humour into the proceedings. Whatever it was, it resulted in her looking positively rabid at times. She soon became the only exception to inclusion in my new-found goodwill demeanour and circle of inmate friends.

We were freed at lunch-time clutching a duly signed certificate of course completion. With a shake of hands and a throwing of my name tag onto the desk, I left to practice my new understanding and awareness of speed as I climbed into my little Yaris and followed the Jaguar out of the car park and into the Lincolnshire murky, freezing sleet and rain.

Florence Asher

2010-12-15T11:15:00.001Z

Simple living, down to earth, honest, straight-talking, reliable, grateful, happy, humble, faithful, friendly, intelligent, caring, thoughtful and strong.

Most of the world didn't know you, but we certainly did and are the better for it.

We'll miss you, Florrie. Rest in peace...you deserve it!

Strong (week) dreams.

2010-12-09T19:59:00.006Z

I've been busy chasing my dreams this week and in the process I've had a few.

Last night, my daughter was trying to kill me. As much as I tried to hide, she'd find me. Fortunately, a youngster just happened to be passing the willow tree that I was being dragged from and, as casual as you like, pulled a gun that was tucked in his belt, pointed it at Juli and asked her to stop. In the confusion, I made another get-away and the youngster went on his way eating a sandwich. She kept turning up though and I kept escaping by the skin of my teeth. I'm tired of running! What have I done (or about to do)? Whatever it is, I'm sorry for past, present or future, Juli!

I'm so glad she lives over 100 miles away.

JS Bach gate-crashed my subconscious and invaded my life around 2:00am on Tuesday and was as real as real can be...even realer!! He was a she, young and wacky. She confided in me the secret of of her youth. Eating grass! She had a mouth crammed full of the most succulent green shoots and could hardly speak without it all falling all over the pillow. I didn't really feel like chewing the cud. I needed sleep.

I'm going to resist taking a peak at 'Interpretation of Dreams', a book that remains unloved and unused by me on one of our shelves...I'll consult Bev instead cos I know she's read it. For good measure she'll probably tie it in with what my stars have said for the week.

It's only a dream...there's no Hahn in it :)

My other dreams (in waking hours)...sorting out my art website and moving closer to being a starving artist.

Because it's unusual

2010-12-04T12:58:00.005Z

I've decided to show a picture of the stuff, seeing as it's so unusual for this time of year.

We've had an extra 5" since ...and one snowball fight.

Bev phoned me at 6:45am as she crossed the field to remind me to wear wellies. Later, she told me that she wrote 'I love you' in the snow but I was too busy taking photos to see it when I crossed an hour later (I wonder if that's it on the right?) I looked back after I crossed the field to the realisation that I don't walk in straight lines.

Rox, Kirsty, Leigh and Tara checking out the internet while I pretend to work. It's lovely and warm inside.

Snowing again next morning...

On Thursday I decided to walk to town along the river (and over that foot bridge to walk along the other side). People I met are so friendly and happy even though it's absolutely freezing.

The castle grounds looked nice. My fingers were now virtually frostbitten trying to carry art materials back from town.

All snow has been cleared in the market square now...

Bev is in town right now with her mother while I take the sensible option of eating chocolate, blogging and generally keeping cosy.

I think she is expecting me to insulate the outside tap. I'd better do that before she gets back...she'll be so impressed.

In the name of art...and possibly science.

2010-11-29T22:02:00.001Z

Something I read on a long lonely evening while in France last week turned my thoughts toward my mortal search for a maggot-free death experience. As you may know, I abhor the thought of the little critters having a ball at my expense.

This is intended as a tongue in cheek post, but I feel it may swing towards the macabre if I'm not careful.

The headline was entitled 'Life and afterlife of a woman who will live forever'.

The article was about Henrietta Lacks who died of cancer a year before I was born. Her cells have been used to a remarkable degree world-wide (without her permission) and, although millions have been made and cell biology revolutionised because of her, her family remain impoverished and she is buried in an unmarked grave. It's a story of both triumph and tragedy.

Well worth considering, I thought. Divide and conquer I say! Better as a gift to science in various bottles, vaults, tubes and slices with foreknowledge, than as a stationary defenceless target for tomb raiders from within. Would I be considered a valuable gift, I mused? I was never a great catch in life, so what will change after it?

My thoughts then drifted back to 1994 to a worthy second option. As a gallery owner at the time (more picture framing than gallery), I had tickets every year for the NEC Spring Fair in Birmingham. It was the year that I bumped into the eccentric artist Robert Lenkiewicz.

The painter collected things...one such thing being a tramp that he had had embalmed (with his permission) after his death.

Diogenes, as he was aptly named, was hidden in the artists studio and was discovered in a drawer after the artist died in 2002.

So, two more choices. Do I die in the name of art or science?

I don't really think my kids would appreciate my stuffed, lifeless carcass standing in some corner or in a cupboard to be brought out and dusted down at family gatherings.

I am tempted by the science option though. There will be no charge and I'm not looking for royalties. It'll be a one-off, time-sensitive special offer (this week only) while the ground is too hard and snow-clad to dig a grave. Any takers?

Henrietta Lacks

Note: Although my 'best before' date has long since expired, I am in perfect health and have no expectation of expiration in the near future.

Read more about Robert Lenkiewicz...

And I WAS fine...

2010-11-24T20:12:00.001Z

I did have a dodgy moment, but just the one. I find that whenever I work too hard, a nightmare comes a visiting.

I finished the sequel to THE ROAD TO NAB END...

Eileen didn't think it was as good as the first, but I enjoyed putting my feet up in front of a roaring fire after a hard day of work and a good meal. I read up till midnight one evening, but with no one to tell me off, I found it very easy to carry on. I even turned the music up to the limit late one night and had a dance and sing song all to myself. I found out two days later that our neighbour who lives several hundred yards away had crept up to the house and peered through the slats of the blinds fearing squatters had broken in, but was relieved to see it was me. I hope I wasn't dancing at the time. She had apparently told her mother who in turn told her friend. I had a meal with that friend who then told me all about it. It's nice to know someone is keeping an eye out for the place.

Anyway, Woodruff is certainly readable considering he is a world historian. He has achieved such a lot given the disadvantages of his early life.

It's nice to be back (I think!)

I'll be posting a few photos on my Brittany blog soon.

I'll be fine

2010-11-09T21:40:00.002Z

Lots of things going through my mind today...like why I'm not angry with the mother who put her baby in the washing machine along with the wash-load, but angry with benefit cheats.

I'm shocked, of course; the details are harrowing, but I get the impression she was totally unaware and was probably spaced out...which begs the question of who was responsible for monitoring her, or allowing custody in the first place. It seems there are similar problems with social services both sides of the Atlantic.

I'm off to France tomorrow and I've just checked my passport. Why does it have my best friend's photograph and name in it?

Spurs play Sunderland tonight. Keith Eckstein is an avid Spurs fan and he's invited me for a drink in Josselin this week. He likes a good drink and I never touch the stuff, but I'm looking forward to a good chat with him (the first time I've met a fellow blogger). Should I fear for my life if we win tonight?

Can't get through to Gary...he's picking me up from the airport. Should I start worrying.

Ah! Eileen just rang to say Gary is house-sitting and has just contacted her to find out if I'm still coming. All is well! He even has some groceries ready for me.

Must remember to swap passports on the way to the airport.

Weather outlook...rain, rain, rain and I'm going to finish the outside store.

I'll be all alone with no TV, radio or internet access. No landline phone either. It will be cold and it will get dark early. The nights will be long and lonely and I'm certain there will be lots of creaks and imaginings in the small hours. I'm thinking of the ghosts at Willow Manor right now. Hope I don't have nightmares (I usually do, but Bev is always there to ease me out of them) Not this time though.

Good job I have a long list of jobs, both inside and out...along with a good book, a roaring fire, some good CD's and my iPod...and lots of Christmas cards to write.

I'll be fine!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-07T22:45:00.001Z

Yesterday was our late bonfire early thanksgiving family get-together over in Mansfield. It was a whole day affair which started with a walk for some of us.

Serene and Spencer...

Photo-shoot with Amber...

Crunching knuckles with Emm...

Admiring their kids...

Austin being the rebel...

Emmaleigh being artistic...

Just finished watching 'Cars' with the kids...I loved it and was virtually left on my own for the ending as they've all seen it dozens of times before (I've only seen it three times). It's much better than rugby.

Over twenty at the table...passing babies over as well as dishes and drinks. Lots of conversation and news updates. Plans for Christmas.

Reflection of the bonfire...we just had the firework display which was absolutely brilliant. We've left Ash and Emm talking over a cup of hot chocolate by the fire. I don't think she wanted to be with the kids (she's growing up, don't you know?)

It was so nice to have the family together again. Everyone worked so hard...not least Amber.

I'm reflecting on how thankful we are.

Show of Hands...a special birthday treat for Bev

2010-11-04T10:37:00.004Z

Show of Hands decided to have concerts for part of this year in cathedrals and amongst spires and beams. Normally they would sell out the Royal Albert Hall but they came to Southwell last night. It was a real treat. I love live music and it doesn't get much better than this...especially when you get to see the whites of their eyes as they perform. It's an additional bonus to talk to them and have them sign their latest releases.

We arrived early and approached the main entrance through the graveyard. We've never been to Southwell Minster even though it's just out the back of us...incredible place.

The concert was a sell-out of about a thousand and guess who was amongst the first to choose a seat?

We last saw them in a theatre in Leicester, but this was something different and we were two rows from the stage.

Perfect acoustics and atmosphere. Kings and powerful cardinals often prayed here...they should have stuck around for the entertainment. The air was crammed with incredible sounds and we were wrapped in it all. The stage was directly underneath the crucifix...

Special guest Jackie Oates signing her CD for me (yes, it's my grubby little hand).

And Miranda...

And Phil and Steve...

Have a listen...

You must also check out Roots and then Arrogance Ignorance and Greed on YouTube above. Don't get lost in the rubbish amateur recordings...the reproduction of music is abysmal.

It was a brilliant night.

Another good read

2010-11-02T21:58:00.000Z

Extraordinary is the word. In fact, it was so good that Eileen wrote her name in it before lending it to me to ensure she gets it back.

Books like this need to be written.

I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.

The Great British Ball... a few pics.

2010-11-01T21:06:00.002Z

It was a ball, but not too formal. Instead of a grand buffet, we opted for cakes, sweets, nuts and nibbles as we figured most people will have already eaten. We planned for variety to keep the interest of people as they arrived by celebrating all things British.

First things first. We needed to create the right atmosphere for people to have a good time.

Our blank canvas...

Progress...

So far, so good...

Time for bows...

The left hand side holding the drapes collapsed just as we finished it all, but with minutes to spare before people arrived, it was all completed...again! This view is showing the food at the back of the hall.

Corridor...soon to be very difficult to get through.

British comics...

British manufacture, film, sporting greats and landmarks...The hot plate will keep the punch nice and hot.

Guess which British nation isn't represented in the Union Jack?

Time to sign in...I greeted most people wearing a black gangster hat trimmed with mini union jack flags, red bow-tie and matching braces. Instead of cuff-links I tied red ribbon into a bow...or at least my son did and I couldn't do anything about it.

Checking the British film clips and adverts from the past fifty years to show in the reception area as they relax and drink their hot punch after photographs...we wouldn't let them into the hall until 8pm.

I guess it's ok! This area ended up jam-packed in no time at all. I was so busy after this shot that I could only find time for a few shots.

Photographs of couples, families and individuals...Nigel was very busy.

This is a view from the stage looking onto the dance floor. We reverse projected the photographs onto the big screen as they danced. Ash (just visible) played the best of British music from the 60's onwards (as well as trad for waltzes and foxtrots etc! We even squeezed in two organised barn dances before the finale. I think every dance style was available.

Bringing the food out and ready to cut into slices. It wasn't very healthy...pick'n'mix sweets and a good selection of pies, flans and cake (other than a bit of fruit)

The fairy cakes were all made by Serene...red, white and blue, of course.

The 2nd big screen projected stills of everything British from the past.

The grand finale...the proms from the Royal Albert Hall and everyone singing their hearts out, waving flags and feeling patriotic.

It was pretty good! A fantastic atmosphere! We printed the words for Land of Hope and Glory,Jerusalem and Rule Britannia because, as we all know, true Brits never know all the words.

Everyone pitched in to clear up and the place was soon just like the opening photograph. It was a nice gesture knowing that we would still be there if it was left to the two of us.

Thanks to the clocks going back an hour, we managed to get to bed just before midnight.

Verdict: Absolutely brilliant! A night to remember.

The Great British Ball this Saturday

2010-10-24T19:05:00.000+01:00

I thought I'd post early as the coming week is crammed and I'll be darting all over the place.

Unlike the virtual ball willow staged a while back, this one is very real. It's also hard work. This is the event that earned me a speeding ticket on my way to the first planning meeting on the 28th September.

The planning and execution committee...Nigel Dann and Ken Devine

The music is sorted
The equipment, lighting and effects are sorted
The sound system will be checked
The decor is almost sorted and we'll put it up all day Thursday and Saturday
The food and drink is sorted and we'll be picking it all up on Saturday morning
The photographer is sorted.
The quizzes are sorted
The flags are sorted
The video clips are sorted
The invites have gone out
The posters have gone out
The displays are in hand
The heating is sorted
The clearing up has been delegated...I think!

What can possibly go wrong?

I 'm not giving away what I'll be wearing, but hope to completely embarrass Bev as usual.

We're gonna have a ball!

Names, new and old

2010-10-20T22:58:00.001+01:00

Yesterday was strange. We had had little sleep because of the call in the small hours that heralded the birth of Liliya Marie Devine...the newest name in my life. We woke feeling groggy so decided to walk to work to catch some fresh air.

As we turned to cross the road, a van zoomed past us, missing us by a fraction. The power of its slipstream almost sucked us into the road. We froze and remained rooted and unable to move for a second; it was a close shave.

The rest of the walk was filled with conversation around new life in the form of Liliya and old life in the form of Bev & Ken who were lucky to be still alive.

For me, the day was full of reflection on how delicate a balance life and death is. I found myself listing and thinking of everyone in my life who is now dead. It was more pleasant than morbid...so many nice memories. I wish they were still around to share some space with me: Perhaps that's exactly what they did do today.

Off the top of my head...

Paul Janota

Ken Bush

Carol Smith

Ted Asher

Malcolm Cleroux

Albert Green

Ted Alderman

Milford Smith

Stan Turpin

Dennis Summers

Daisy Summers

Doris Kennedy

Tom Davies

Eric Connor

Mary Brailsford

Derek Cuthbert

Jack Kennedy

George Winfield

Stevie Southam

Elisabeth Norman

Jean Flinn

Jarred Potter

Jane Girling
Ken Poole

Joyce Anderson

Henry Mulligan

Gwen Mulligan

Lynn Williams

Fred Baillie

Mavis Baillie

Gordon Sherlock

Shirley Mays

Mr Herbert

My Mum

My Dad

Bev's Dad

It was a strange day thinking about birth and death, but a very pleasant day all the same. It was nice thinking about every one of them.

Girl or a boy?

2010-10-19T08:07:00.001+01:00

I walked down to the White Swan to watch Sunderland v Blackburn last night to get out of the way while Bev entertained her friend. It turned out that her friend entertained her. I, on the other hand was not entertained in the least.

It was a disappointing performance over the 90 minutes. They drew a blank, unlike Sarah Louise who managed to get a result after extra time.

Sarah wanted to call us herself, which she did, an hour or so after giving birth (just before midnight, I think) to an 8lb 3oz girl (I think!) I know it was a girl but not sure about the weight. Can't you just tell it's a bloke writing this.

They, like us, enjoyed their first sleepless night.

So, I was 100% wrong about her being a boy. Finlay will have to wait a little longer, I guess.

Welcome to Earth baby girl with dark hair who has no name...we love you already and look forward to seeing you soon.

Journal update

2010-10-17T22:13:00.000+01:00

Sunday...Isaiah isn't easy to understand, is he?

On Friday I drove to Leeds to help my son with some building work. On Saturday he drove with me to Sunderland to put a new ceiling in my granddaughter's bedroom as well as seeing Juli off to Canada for a short break. I dropped Jon off in Leeds on my way back to Newark and, by the time I arrived home, realised that I'd left my camera in his kitchen and he'd left his blackberry in my car.

They drove over today for the exchange and we had a very pleasurable late lunch together.

If all goes well, tomorrow will see the arrival of our ninth grandchild. My prediction is for it to be a boy... I just feel it.

I was told last week that my job will become redundant in January.

How do I feel? Fine! So long as it's only the job and not me.

Weather has been crisp, clear, and is now warm. I feel alive and optimistic.

Here's to a bright future for the unborn and many more besides...you and me included.

It came to me in a flash.

2010-10-12T21:10:00.001+01:00

As it does.

Cambridge

2010-10-07T10:32:00.000+01:00

Well, this is Cambridge...

Arrived just in time for breakfast at The Eagle, the most famous pub in Cambridge...

This peaceful room had a glorious smell...

The breakfast room...

There are more rooms, all peaceful and steeped in history, but that's it for now...we've had our full English breakfast including black pudding. Bev is ready to hit town...

Kings...

Student pranksters put giant Christmas hats on those two spires one year...

As you can see, we took a guided punt tour (he was really good)...too many grand buildings and bridges to show really...

Lots of bridges but I must include this one which gave the town its name...the Cam bridge...

Without cycles, Cambridge isn't Cambridge...and boy, were there lots of 'em.

Dropped in at the museum to check out the Egyptian mummies and the French impressionists...

It was magic!

A quiet side street away from the hectic market...

It was an exhausting but very enjoyable day. We were lucky it was such pleasant weather.

Verdict: Well worth the visit, especially if you tag onto a guided tour. Try and avoid the all too familiar and universally recognisable shops and delve down the alleys for the interesting stuff.

We were educated, which is what you'd expect from Cambridge.

All photos on Facebook.

Cambridge pranks

2010-10-03T21:03:00.003+01:00

Just like 34 years ago, yesterday was a beautiful day sandwiched between two horrible ones. We decided to celebrate our wedding anniversary by spending the day in Cambridge for no other reason other than we've never been there before.

Here are just a few things we learned...
1. The bodyguard of Prince Charles attended all the lectures the prince attended whilst at Trinity College Cambridge by virtue of his duty to protect him. He even sat the exam...and apparently achieved a better grade.
2. King Henry V111 gave Trinity College a great wad of land (belonging to the Catholic Church) that stretches all the way to London and includes what the Millennium Dome is built upon. The College is worth Billions of pounds and is the richest of all English colleges.
3. Cambridge University is the second oldest University in England (Oxford is the oldest) . It was founded by Oxford students who fled on suspicion of murder.
4. Students at Cambridge have to sign a contract which prohibits them from taking part-time jobs in the community. They are there to study...nothing else.
5. Pink Floyd began their career at the Anchor pub where the punts are gathered.
6. Students managed to put two Santa's hats on spires of a college seemingly impossible to climb.
7. Students also managed to put this car (below photo) on top of the building in 1958...a prank which baffled police for many years as they couldn't figure out how it could have been done.

Revealed...how the prank was done (click on photo)

Some photos of the day and other things we learned...tomorrow!

Speaking of cars...guess who received a speeding fine in the post when I got home? It's the second in my entire driving experience and the feeling is exactly the same...gutted!

I can't remember the last stand-alone perfect day.

What an evening!

2010-09-30T11:37:00.003+01:00

So annoyed with Virginia Woolf for being George's partner at the Third Annual Willow Manor Ball. I caught their anxious glance as we arrived fashionably late; both praying I won't make a fuss. How could I with such a partner as I now have?

It was so gracious of Ginger to step in for Bev who is resting her tender feet from the last ball we attended. "I know you want to go, so I've given Ginger the all clear", she said. So thoughtful. So loving. So trusting!

Our host Willow is surrounded as usual but we're sure to catch her later. Oh, I was expecting her to be wearing the white vintage organdy gown she bought in Paris last week. I guess she decided to change into something that will allow her to dance the tango the way she is at the moment. Such elegance, style, passion and gay abandon even though I swear I caught sight of woolly socks underneath it all.

I feel a blood rush now as Leonard Cohen strikes up a most appropriate "Dance Me to the End Of Love". Its been over ten years since we last saw him perform and my thoughts flash to Bev who will be so disappointed to have missed this chance reunion. We have caught his eye in the refrain and, with a half smile and a nod of acknowledgement, friendships are remembered as we slip onto a dance floor already heaving with colour, movement and dancing glittering eyes and feet.

The atmosphere is amazing. The ball is truly magnificent!

Is that green chartreuse I see over there? My word, did I not use that in the old days at the beginning of an evening out to prevent me from overloading and feeling the effects the next day? I prefer 'dandy' these days for the certainty of a clear head and no chance of losing it. I see everything but dandy though, had willow forgotten? Surely n...ah, there it is half buried in a silver bowl of crushed ice with a little label attached which reads...'Reserved for Ken'. What a host; such attention to detail...she remembered that I love it chilled.

Incidentally, do you like my outfit for tonight's ball? It's the one favoured by Fred in the picture below except I'm wearing a yellow bow-tie to match the lovely roses around the dance floor. Ginger is wearing the very same dress to make me feel comfortable although I must admit to feeling a little awkward having stepped on the hem twice already. Yes, she gave me that very same look.

I could write forever about this evening. It has been truly memorable. So many good friends, so much laughter, such exquisite food and elegant decor...add to these my newest, warmest, eternal and fondest memories.

It's with regret that we slipped out early, unable to continue through to the early hours as Ginger had a photo-shoot early the next day and feared she would not look her best if she stayed beyond midnight.

Thank you Willow for such an unforgettably romantic evening and for including us amongst your most distinguished and favoured guests.

We had a ball!

What, how, when and why.

2010-09-27T18:36:00.001+01:00

Had a fantastic weekend in Sunderland.

How do I feel right now?
Tense!

Why?
It's Monday and I'm back at work.

How should I feel?
Not tense.

What should I do about it?
Something! Anything!

How?
Get things into perspective and breathe deeply.

When?
NOW, you idiot!

Don't call me an idiot...it just makes me feel worse.
Okay, sorry!

Being entertained

2010-09-20T20:58:00.009+01:00

Pleased that I'm making and taking time to read.

Makes me feel lucky never to have experienced the things they did other than love, patriotism, sacrifice and empathy. Who am I kidding? I identified with hero and villain if truth be told. Slow to begin with but definitely worth the read, even though that empty feeling usually present at the conclusion of a good book was missing.

Books recommended to me...

The book thief

The Guernsey literary and potato peel pie society

A short history of everything

Longitude

The perfect storm...if it's anything like the film, I may not bother.

The shipping news

Go on... add to the list and give reasons why you rate it worthy of a read?

I watched something last week on TV i-player that I enjoyed immensely. I saw the very first episode of Coronation Street in 1960 and remembered it vividly even though I haven't seen the programme for over thirty years. What I watched was a drama of how it came about. Loved it! Really loved it! Warren was spot on with those early characters. It evoked so many black and white memories.

Who's on my mind? Dot, the followed (on the right) and the owner of Ryanair. One of them a high-flyer who is planely irritating me.

Thanks Helen

2010-09-16T11:38:00.004+01:00

A photo taken for me by Helen Flinn Cryer a few weeks ago...

It's for our floor to ceiling wardrobe in France. I saw the wardrobe complete with a similar photo in Ikea Nottingham and fell in love with it. It is sold without the image of the Eiffel Tower however, which is why Helen took the photo...several photos actually.

When I'm next in Ikea I'll take a photo of the wardrobe and place it underneath this photo so you will see how cool an idea it is.

Thanks again for such brilliant photos Helen.

On reflection

2010-09-16T08:17:00.006+01:00

I've been reflecting (whilst shaving) on if I am better off being left alone rather than confronted, prodded, poked or challenged.

They fascinate , frustrate, disappoint, inspire, please and disgust me. I love 'em and hate 'em too. Nowt so funny as folk eh?

I don't mind kind words, praise, adulation or being the recipient of unexpected gifts or kindnesses, but they can't go on forever and must inevitably give way to a bit of grey.

Yesterday (and the day before) I felt front-line, dull, bruised, tender, fragile and under attack just at a time when I want to be cocooned, fresh and impregnable. When I'm rained on I want to feel dry, comfortable and stronger than tissue paper.

Perhaps it's because I'm just back from holiday and need to get into the rhythm of things.

I found 1,230 emails in the inbox on my return, along with new processes, a new team, team leader, location and expanded responsibilities. The bubble had burst. It was raining hard and I preferred the being left alone option.

On the bright side, I had a decent break from it all and feel considerably better this morning as I confront the man in the mirror.

Hope you had a good birthday yesterday Amber.

Welcome to Paul C...I hope you enjoy dropping by from time to time. Oh my goodness, a retired high school English teacher! I'm afraid you'll have to turn a blind eye to my English.

Also welcome to Val Daggatt. I've just noticed your silhouette Val but can't locate you on blogger.

Looking forward to visiting you all.

Oh, I almost forgot to conclude...

Am I better off being alone, protected and cocooned?

No!

Welcome break

2010-08-19T08:59:00.002+01:00

All of a sudden I'm told I can use an iPod while working.

Mon, Tues and Wednesday I listened to over 300 songs and talks and, if anything, my workload increased and the time flew by. I now have two lanes and life just got better.

So here I am at last...no more work for 3 weeks. I'm off to France today. Everything is packed. I'm ready! I fly 8pm.

Jobs to do today...
Into town for a pair of decent in-ear headphones (Done)
Trim the creeper (Done)
Put blind track up in MIL living room (Done)
Charge camera batteries (Done)
Paint (updated my paintings blog instead)
Fill the hole in the landing ceiling (Done)
Tidy the area around the computer (Done)
Chill (Still doing it)

Jobs to do in France...starting tomorrow...

Finish the landing wooden tops (and the main bedroom one)
Build an internal wood store
Finish the fireplace canopy
Fit a lock to the living room / kitchen door
Prepare ground and sow grass seed
Order the materials for the store
Lay a concrete base for the store
Build the outside store (this is the main job)
Work some more on the patio
Finish the guttering
Perhaps dig another soak-away
Paint various areas inside and out
Weed the front and lay gravel
Have fun...windsurfing / rides / walks
Have more fun...and even more fun.

Bev arrives next Sunday, so I'm planning to work hard until she arrives, then 1/2 pace and decreasing for two weeks.

That's the plan anyway, but you know what they say about plans.

I now sign off for three weeks with a smile.

Stung

2010-08-15T16:52:00.001+01:00

Saturday threatened rain so I headed for the loft (one of my 2010 goals is to board the loft).

The sun came out, so I abandoned the loft and placed the bags of pampas clippings in the sun to dry out. When dry, we stuffed the bags into the car and headed for the tip. Then to my brother for a visit. Then shopping for curtains, bathroom ideas and a new pair of jeans. I'm fed up with the cheap baggy jeans and decided to push the boat out on a pair of Ben Shermans.

On the way back, we picked up a DVD (The Greatest...Pierce Brosnan, Susan Sarandon and Carey Mulligan) along with popcorn, KFC and vanilla fudge and enjoyed the rest of the evening being totally selfish.

Now you see them ...plus a third bag. Just look at that rampant creeper.

Now you don't...just need to cut the grass now.

I'm such a hypocrite! I promised myself that I'd never eat KFC after discovering how it ends up on our plate. It tasted really nice, but I think I'll try my best to avoid it...unless I'm really, really hungry and too lazy to make something.

Downside...as I lifted the bag of clippings into the container, I was stung by a wasp. How ridiculous I must have looked with my arms in the air and shrieking. It's the second time I've been stung that I can recall and it isn't nice.

Actually, I was stung twice...once by the wasp and the other by the cost of KFC.

It's Sunday now and I feel very happy. I enjoyed the lesson about proverbs and the characteristics of the church Christ set up originally.

We are back home now and the weather is good enough to sit in the garden for lunch and a walk after it.

The worst part of last week...having to go to work.
The best part of last week...having a job that affords me luxuries from time to time.

I'm thinking I should make the most of having a job because I could easily lose it.

Stop spending and get back to simple ways. The simple ways are always best.

Eyes wide open

2010-08-12T09:07:00.009+01:00

Whilst reading willow's poetry my thoughts veered at a tangent and lingered on some recent news.

The news was of a young lady (in her 20's) victimised and beaten by her Mother and lodger within one mile of where I now sit. Introverted and fearful she would exist from day to day, year after year. No love, warmth, friendship or hope.

Whatever she earned had to be handed over for her keep. Such has been her life's experience and experience has shown her that it was her lot in life. Attempts to escape had ended painfully.

Then one day she found a full-time job with friendly staff who became close enough for her to eventually share her heartache.

The eyes; windows of the soul, are now bright and brimming with tears of joy. Warmth and hope replace chill and despair. Excitement borne of victory replaces resignation and defeat.

She has saved sufficient to move into her own place and enjoys strong active and lasting support sufficient to ensure it happens without resistance.

This is the superb line from the poem entitled ethos (Tuesday 13th July) that set me thinking of this injustice that thankfully turned to joy...

I cannot trifle with those
who refuse to taste life.

I changed willow's words...

I cannot trifle with those
who with eyes wide open bruise the soul.

Aren't friends good!

Spencer Lee Devine

2010-08-08T22:09:00.000+01:00

Was it really only last week that we all got together at Jon & Serene's place for Spencer's blessing?

Too many photos so I'm concentrating on our four getting ready for a serious photo...

I don't think it's going to work...

They are in that sort of mood...

Mmmmm...

Settle down...

That's better...

All our children, grandchildren, family and friends together for a very special day.

Brilliant!

Bad habits

2010-08-03T21:24:00.001+01:00

There is so much I want to say but I'm biting my tongue.

My children will tell you that I never allowed them to chew gum in my company as they grew up. This last year I've taken to chewing it for some strange reason. Call me a hypocrite but I seem to be hooked on the stuff and chew with alarming speed and often bite my tongue sufficient to water my eyeballs.

I'm hoping my children will step in to ban me, but as yet they are turning a dry blind eye. Eat your heart out Alex (Man.U manager of similar speed).

Anyway, I've finished the book that Eileen breezed through while sitting in the garden in France. It became a book with a hook as I sneaked a peep at the opening paragraph...

"Someone once said that youth is wasted on the young. Not a bit of it. Only the young have the impulsive energy to tackle the impossible and enjoy it; the courage to follow their instincts and brave the new; the stamina to work all day, all night and all the next day without tiring. For the young everything is possible. None of us, twenty years later, could do the things we did in our youth. Though the vision burns still bright, the energy has gone."

Far too gory for men to read (the clue is found in the print before the title) but it's compulsive reading and a superb social documentary of Docklands East -End London in the 50's. It reminds me of Docklands East-End Sunderland of the same era.

Verdict: Raw, hopeless, sad and chilling as well as poignant, warm, gentle and optimistic.

The cover picture is exactly the way me and Tucker Ellis used to go to school...hole in the seat of my pants and all.

Farewell to the East End, welcome the next good and easy read whatever, whenever or wherever it may be.

Perhaps I should say farewell to a few bad habits too...I'll chew it over :)

Another surprise

2010-07-27T21:09:00.001+01:00

The security guard at Lauren's Patisseries which is located opposite the scene of the accident yesterday was the one who informed some of our staff that Margaret had died. We spent the entire afternoon, evening and beyond upset with the whole situation and wrapped up in emotional turmoil.

He was wrong! He was so wrong! She's alive, albeit not too well, but ready to start kicking.

Margaret not only survived, but is more concerned about her broken glasses than broken bones!

Good news or what!?

Get in there Margaret!

Unwelcome visitor...

2010-07-26T21:57:00.002+01:00

last month I was saddened to hear that Lynn Williams had died. She was a positive and happy colleague at our workplace and I didn't even know she had cancer.

Margaret Lucy was run over by a lorry today as she biked back to work from lunch.

I've known Margaret since starting work here and was shocked at how sudden and unexpected her death was.

There wasn't a day that went by the past two weeks that I didn't think about our next door neighbour in France who took his own life.

Now I'm thinking of all the people I know who are struggling to hang on to life and one or two who can't wait to see the back of it.

I'm not feeling particularly depressed or morose but I am thinking about the grim reaper and how and when we all could meet our end.

It's lurking and will get to us eventually but I'm quite happy to be last in the queue at the moment. Let the good times roll before my head does. Keep your distance and don't come knocking too soon. You're an unwelcome visitor here.

For now, what empathy I have is reserved for those left to pick up the pieces...the stunned, numbed, shocked and bewildered. I've been there and know how empty and lonely a place it is.

Off to France

2010-07-12T22:12:00.001+01:00

We arrived at the Flinns tonight without the blinds... each thinking the other had put them in the car. This just about sums up our day. They were going to drive them to France for us tomorrow as I'll be flying and not able to take them myself.

Back home and all packed and raring to go.

Update...
Helped raise £1700 for Children in Kenya on Saturday(CHinK). It was a scorching day and we had a great time.

Unkind thought...I wasn't all that sad to hear Raoul Moat had taken his own life. I saw humour in a Moat being cornered by a river.

Kind thought...sorry, out of time!

See you all in a couple of weeks.

No octopus dude, but...

2010-07-11T18:34:00.002+01:00

No more weekly meetings for the first time in over 30 years. Weight lifted. Feeling pretty good! My new responsibility is relatively meeting-less (Cultural and physical activities for Mormons in Nottingham, Derby, Boston and Lincoln). Easy-peasy!

Past responsibilities...Elders Quorum President, member of the Stake High Council, Bishop, 1st and 2nd Counsellor in the Stake Presidency and now no longer the High Priests Group Leader.

We had lunch in the garden and I played the guitar for an hour or so...including the song posted by willow.

There is something very special about music that is sung and played in a way that goes straight to the heart.

I listened to two singers on the car radio recently as I drove home from meetings. One was called Martha Tilston (I think)who I've never heard of before but liked the way she sang the song I was listening to and the other was an old favourite Janis Ian singing 'At 17'.

I've let music slip slightly over the past decade or so, but I'm enjoying getting back to those old favourites Bruce Cockburn, Dylan, Harvey Andrews, McTell, Lightfoot, Tir Na Nog etc! I have several i-Tune gift cards which will be used as soon as I get back from France...unless I can convert my attic vinyl to living room digital.

I know it's Sunday but I'll be watching the final and predict 3-1 to Spain.

What's the point of repentance if there is nothing to repent of?

Did I really say that?

Yes it was!

2010-07-05T21:53:00.001+01:00

650 emails and counting as I sat at my desk this morning and everyone that I've trained over the last month or so have walked out...mainly due to being moved to unfamiliar roles for no apparent reason.

I'm all on my own doing battle with a growing mountain of work. When I go to France next week do you think I'll give it another thought?

I was pleased to leave the place and walk with eyes closed across the playing fields with the warm and welcome sun hitting my face. I counted 150 steps before peeking to find I was still dead in line with where I wanted to end up and cracked the first smile of the day.

Its been a busy week and spent most of it away from home and didn't get back until last night. I spent time tiling in Martin's bathroom as well London, Dot's surprise party and Amber's belated 4th July celebrations.

Dot is our friend who has been battling cancer for the last three years. She's pretty special and we were so pleased she was well enough to enjoy it. It was a great night.

Before going to London I had to cut back the virginia creeper...

On the tube...

Bev's choice...

2nd choice...

3rd choice...

I haven't got a look in yet but I wanted to see these too...

The tube back a few stops...

Summer Exhibition...

Going in...

I'm not allowed to take pictures but these are the contemporary paintings I liked...

This is the section I would have been in if chosen...

The work I disliked...especially the pale one in the middle by Tracey Emin painted with acrylic and peeling masking tape entitled 'A Fault Line Of Tears'. The price of £125,000 was way out of line and enough to make anyone cry.

They caught up with me so I couldn't take any more pics, but I loved the Ken Howard paintings and would have snapped them had Bev not have snatched my camera away.

Back in Piccadilly I noticed Eros fighting a losing battle and if you look closer, Brazil were about to fight a losing battle too.

The 'Fourth Plinth' exhibit...

Just one of the many street artists...

I hope I remember how I felt carrying paintings on a rush-hour tube the next time I think how nice it would be to enter paintings for another exhibition.

Was it worth it? Yes, it was!

Icing on the cake

2010-06-28T22:22:00.001+01:00

I bid for a desk which was just 8' from a big screen for an England game, and lost to a higher bid at the last minute. Ryanair changed all my flights to France this year which has caused me grief. We had to cancel our trip to London because of MIL's fall and England were humiliated in the World Cup. So, did I have a good week? I did, yes!

To balance things up, I've had the opportunity to help out again with Wanda's garden and gave Martin a hand with his bathroom. We've had great fun knocking walls down just to build them up in a different location and shape. We also had family come round for Father's day. It was brilliant.

I've painted, studied, walked, dined in the garden and yesterday we drove three hours to attend church in Basingstoke, had a family lunch, watched England capitulate and drove back.

I changed an e-mail I had today to read the following...
A new film based on a true story entitled 'Out of Africa', starring...well, it doesn't star anyone really but it's full of drama, comedy, horror and farce. The director was Fabio and he misdirected it perfectly. That's all I'm going to say on football.

I've been up, down, stretched, bruised, cut, optimistic, pessimistic frustrated and elated. Life is the same as it ever was it seems. The rough and smooth are seldom far apart.

I reckon another few weeks will see an opening for total relaxation though. I see clear, still, calm and silent waters on the horizon and I'm ready for a dip.

This Friday is our re-arranged London trip, followed by tiling in Martins bathroom on Saturday. Saturday evening is a surprise party for Dot and Sunday, which promised to be the hottest day of the year, will see me stretched out after church in a garden that has exploded with colour, charm and fragrance. There will be jobs to do but Sunday has never yet seen me desert it in favour of work.

For Ash, today was the last day at the same workplace as his Dad. He was the only one of our children who has worked for a wage in the same company and I think I'll miss him.

He finished by getting his photograph in the local newspaper dressed as an England football fanatic pretending to be working. There's always a Devine willing to make a fool of himself and he does it almost as well as me.

While he is enjoying a meal with his team, I'm painting a banner for Dot and Bev is in the garden.

A little chat with Juli provides the icing on the cake.

Why?

2010-06-18T22:35:00.000+01:00

Four years preparation for such an amateur and passionless performance is difficult to take. Why are they doing this to us?

For all those who laugh at us for getting so passionate about a bunch of men kicking a ball around for 90 minutes, this is your day. Go on, have a good laugh!

Uncomfortable

2010-06-18T11:16:00.007+01:00

After not writing a journal for several days I feel a little vulnerable. I can't explain it, but somehow I'm at a loss. Mundane daily drivel was my way of making sense of my existence and I felt comfortable with recording it.

I'll continue with cold turkey for a while and see what benefits rise to the surface.

David Bourne joined me to work on Wanda's garden last night. She's in the States for another few weeks and a few of us have been looking after it to prevent it becoming unmanageable for her when she returns. Doing something for others always makes me feel good...I'm selfish like that.

Earlier in the day MIL fell down the steps of Newark Town Hall and damaged her foot, shoulder and cheek. She's been ordered to rest. Fortunately nothing is broken and she's currently catching up on sleep lost from last night.

She left yesterdays Daily Mirror lying around and I inexplicably succumbed to reading it. She obviously buys it for the football as you can't seriously consider its content as anything other than gossip and hearsay.

I was shocked to read about Ronnie Lee Gardner and wonder if his execution tonight in SLC is based on fact. He is the last man to face a firing squad in the USA for a crime he committed in 1985.

As I wake up tomorrow with thoughts of England's victory over Algeria, Ronnie Lee Gardner will no longer exist.

My shock is partly due to the method of execution. It's so violent and at odds with my perception of SLC. If the firing squad was banned in 2004, why is this one going ahead?

I hope he had no regrets and was unrepentant about the two lives he took, otherwise my views on the death sentence will waver. I feel uncomfortable about this but perhaps I should have faith that every opportunity has been given for Ronnie to turn his life around and one day take his place as a contributing and safe member of society and that such opportunity was rejected, spurned and wasted.

I still feel uncomfortable...as does MIL for different reasons.

Oh dear! Bev has left a box of Maltesers open and it seemed the most natural thing in the world to help myself.

I feel comfortable with the consequences but I'm sure Bev won't when she drops by at lunch-time.

Update...
I thought it was tonight at midnight but Ronnie Lee Gardner has already been executed.

At his commutation hearing, Gardner shed a tear after telling the board his attempts to apologise to the Otterstroms and Kirks had been unsuccessful. He said he hoped for forgiveness. "If someone hates me for 20 years, it's going to affect them," Gardner said. "I know killing me is going to hurt them just as bad. It's something you have to live with every day. You can't get away from it. I've been on the other side of the gun. I know."

I know I'm not in possession of all the facts but I really do feel uncomfortable about this execution now. These aren't the words of a hardened unrepentant killer.

Gardner's lawyers argued that the jury which sentenced him to death in 1985 heard no mitigating evidence that might have led them to instead impose a life sentence. Gardner's life was marked by early drug addiction, physical and sexual abuse and possible brain damage, court records show.

The Father of one of Gardner's victims said he believed his son's killing was not premeditated, but a "knee-jerk reaction" by a desperate Gardner attempting to escape.

While I was painting in my studio without a care in the world Gardner spent his last day sleeping, reading the novel Divine Justice, watching the Lord Of The Rings film trilogy and meeting his lawyers and a bishop from the Mormon church. A prison spokesman said officers described his mood as relaxed. He had eaten his last requested meal - steak, lobster tail, apple pie, vanilla ice cream and 7Up soft drink - two days earlier.

It's ironic that the book Gardner was reading was written by Baldacci...a former lawyer.

My cosy little world has been invaded by harsh reality.

Clutching at straws

2010-06-14T19:55:00.002+01:00

As I walked towards our drive after work, a female cyclist approached me sporting a full-on yawn. It was huge! As she passed we smiled in recognition of one of those moments never intended to have been witnessed.

I love it when two total strangers share a very fleeting but warm moment.

Its been an eventful day...first a pay rise...not much, but still a rise. I also had a bonus payment confirmed...not much, especially once the tax man gets his share, but a bonus payment nonetheless.

I also thought heavily about my efforts in French and have decided to dedicate my free evenings to serious study. For the near future therefore (see how it goes) I will post weekly instead of my normal daily journal. I'm clutching at straws a little but I'm sure it will make a difference.

I hope it will make a difference.

Sunday

2010-06-13T20:46:00.000+01:00

Bev preparing the back garden yesterday. I think it's Bev!

For me this afternoon...

And...

Edith...

Lost my touch...

And my memory...happy birthday Jo!

Sat OUR day

2010-06-12T22:43:00.000+01:00

Ryanair upset me with their flight changes in August. It wasn't a good start to the day.

I chose the one job I didn't want to do on a hot sunny day, knowing that I'd feel good for doing it. It worked! I'm inching towards one of my main goals for the year by putting a floor in the loft.

After lunch I joined Bev in the garden. She has the garden looking really good and we managed to get rid of everything she's dragged out of it over the last few weeks with another tip run...a job that always makes us feel good.

On the way back we treated ourselves to a lounger for half-price. We wanted two, but it was the last one. TKMax had a few bargains too.

After a haircut, bath and take-away I found myself sitting down with my England shirt on to watch the game...Bev joined me. Pity about the result. Who taught the Americans how to play?

On balance it was a good day and marks the last Saturday at home for a while. It was Sat OUR day.