Morning Chris,

Good old Babs, she's a national treasure "get out my pub" xx

I am salivating at the thought of a bacon butty, instead I've got cheese and cucumber!

Enjoy your weekend, see you on the telly at 7.

AliB
xx

Morning Chris

Babs was fantastic indeed - I've it when she said if someone says they like something she is wearing she takes it off and gives it to them. Lovely woman.

Enjoy your bacon butty - I'm off to see what M n S can offer me for lunch.

Have a great weekend and see you tonight.

Gail - Your weekend sounds fab, have a great time.

Annie - so sorry I forgot to say I'm up for a meet. Thanks again to Chrissie for reminding me.

JG - I'm please everything is falling into to place for you. Take care and have a great weekend with your family.

Hi Cheryl & Barmy xx

CG - lovely post take care xx

Mary xx

ps: Chrissie thanks for your kind words about my poem xx

Oh Chris what have you done? I want ..... nay, I NEED a bacon buttie now ........ sigh!

Babs was wonderful this morning, she would lift anybody's spirits! Great show, as ever.

CG xx

Hello from another beautiful spring-like day in Surrey!

To set the scene; I’m sitting in the garden having a coffee, the birds are singing their little hearts out, the sun is shining, the washing’s on the line and it’s Friday, what more could you ask for?

Chris, the show this morning with the legend that is Babs, was the business, I enjoyed every listening moment, what a fantastic lady she is, I’d love some of what she’s on, and that’s for sure!

Now, the radio normally gets changed to another wave length at noon, but I have just heard JV announce you are on the show, so I’m breaking the habit today and will be listening in after 1pm.

Pen xx

Hi Chris and all bloggers

I'm listening to the show on iplayer and waiting for Babs to come on, so I can't comment on her at the moment. I'm very jealous about your bacon buttie, the Americans just don't understand back bacon, you just get very thin streaky stuff that disintergrates when cooked.

We're at last coming out of a very hard winter, lovely blue sky today and the snow is melting slowly. We now have patches of grass visible, the squirrels are getting frisky and the chipmunks are coming out of hibernation - so things are looking up.

We've got a nice weekend lined up, it's restaurant week here which means participating restaurants are offering a 3 course meal for $20.11 (i know strange price) so it's Italian for us tonight. Then on Sunday we're going to see Caesar Milan the dog whisperer which will either be total rubbish or very interesting, I'm hoping for the latter!

I am one of the lurkers out there who doesn't post very often, don't really know the reason for that, but do enjoy reading it. Saying that I do feel that the blog has taken it's course and maybe Chris blogging less is his way of gradually winding it up.

I'm looking forward to coming home on 4th April for two weeks to see my lovely boys and the rest of my family and friends and also to having a lovely big fry up with black pudding and proper sausages and bacon.

The Candy Man woohoo!!

have a lovely weekend all

MaW

Wrll, if that isn't typical. Just posted this on the previous blog:

It's me, hello. I must confess to being one of the (many) deserters, the main reason being that I lead an immensely busy life, and at one point I was paying more attention to my blog postings than I was to keeping in touch with "real live" friends. I don't even lurk much now to be honest. Here are some thoughts:

I think that the blog seemed to change when Chris took over the breakfast show. I can only ever listen to part of it, unfortunately it's the same part so I tend to hear the same things. I haven't really clicked with the breakfast team so much and I have realised that it was the banter between Chris, Jonny, Sally, and Foxy which made it so appealing to me. Also, I'm not really a morning person, my family would testify to that.

I have my own views about Twitter but I don't want to offend anyone; however it would seem that the Twitter format is exactly right for Chris, and perhaps he thinks that anyone who really "gets" him should follow him that way. There can only be so many ways to transmit your musings before something becomes superfluous.

Now, how to put this. It's the blog banter that's changed. Would it be perverse of me to say, people are just a bit too nice? We use to rib eachother and take the mickey a lot. Obviously I'm not condoning the nastiness which reared its head from time to time, but a bit of sparring often livens things up. I guessed Concered was Barney, it was typically witty of him to give himself the sacred initials. He must find it very amusing when his little "bon mot"s cause people to leap so passionately into defensive mode, as if it were necessary.

We used to be a motley crew of individuals, now can be just a little homogenous.

And there was me saying I didn't want to offend anyone.

Anyway, in other news:

I am still flying the flag for Primary School Music - I have more responsibilty than before and thoroughly love what I do. What's more I still have a job next year despite the local Council's effort to squash funding.

Teen1 has a place to study Law at Oxford in September, I am very proud and showoffy about it. Teen2 has amazingly buckled down to work and will be doing A levels next year. I am absolutely dreading May when they will both be doing major exams, and we all have our hormonely challenging moments still, very much so.

I guess this is going to take up a lot of inch-space, so I'll call it a day. A very warm hello to those who remember me but you may recall I don't do virtual hugs so here's a hearty punch on the arm and a matey slap on the back, nice to see you, to see you nice.

A x

Hi everyone,

How lovely to hear from you BG, your post does make a lot of sense.

Unfortunately, I missed Babs this morning due to starting work at 8, but I'm sure she was great.

Annie/Chrissie/Mary - a mini meet sounds great, count me in (if that's ok).

Have a great weekend one and all.

X

Gail.

I'm saying hello to CE & everyone while I'm here. I keep on losing the internet connection and am spending a lot of time talking to the call centre. Why I don't just switch off and go down to the prom or sit in the garden I don't know but anyway I think that it's coming back gradually and I've also learned a lot of new things about the computer. I'll have to ask Bingo to drop in at the call centre in Mumbai on his way back.

Re the blog, don't forget that Simon has taken over Chris's old job which explains why his blog is busy and Chris is now doing differenet hours plus other things. I would hete this blog to come to and end but maybe we should be happy to keep it going as it is now and just feel free to post when we want to.

Babs Windsor is just amazing at 74 years old, how does she do it? I'll bet that Scott finds it difficult keeping up with her.

HelloooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooBingo!

MMxxx

Will I now press post and lose the connection?

Phew!

Afternoon ,

Well, I must confess, I dont get to listen to much of the show, so correct me if i m wrong on this one, but does Chris ever mention bloggers on his show ? I used to love the ARF on a Friday night, and seeing who got picked. Having had a quick shufty over on Simons' blog, it seems he gets things mooving and a grooving by mentioning his bloggers on his show, and I know that a few get namechecked regularly , which is lovely, and will encourange interaction and generate more blogging.

I think it would be lovely if we could have some part in CLP's show, so if you are reading this CLP, please can you consider a small something to liven us up please?

Anyway, today's butty is .............. egg, boiled all by myself , with added pepper, and mayo . On soft white with a small bit of butta ! Oh and sprinkled with crispy bacon which was kindly cooked by someone and put in a packet at my local M 8 S.
To follow , I am having melon balls , hand scooped , to prove i can cook when i put my mind to it .

Right, off to do stuff, I have three things that must go today or I will go instead.

MC xxxxxxxxxx

Firstly, just a quick update in case anyone is interested. Have had reports that my little bit in the newsletter has been well received and seems to have done the trick for now

Secondly, I was going to post my thoughts on this blog and the way it is going but then thought that might be construed as being too nice or defensive but hey, maybe my final word on this blog.

Chris doesn't write such fulsome blogs as he used to and we have discussed the reasons why but he does still take a few moments to say Hi and has never said he wants to stop

Don't know why fewer people post here than used to. I suppose I've stuck around as I have access during the day, tend to play on my lap top during the evening and enjoy keeping in touch with you all. Also, i listen to the Breakfast Show and Drivetime Show so feel connected to them both

I think what will stop this blog, though, is contiuously speculating about it's imminent demise.

Maddy, i agree entirely with your post no. 9

Chris on JV right now - really worth a listen again if you are not near a radio now - maybe have to have a hanky handy

Goodbye

Sezza

If you can, listen to Jeremy Vine now. Chris is on talking very honestly and movingly about fatherhood.

Afternoon all!

I'm not near a radio now sadly, but I had to pop out earlier and heard a couple of bits of the JV Show ......

Thing 1 - the reportage on the serial rapist who has just been served a life sentence. It came across as if a new, sick, perverse version of Top Trumps was being invented right before my very ears. To say X was more depraved that Y, and surely Z deserves a mention for his/her hideous crimes ...... that's just totally and utterly sick in my opinion, and should NEVER have been given air time.

Thing 2 - The bloke who had been in the queue outside the Fruit Store in Regent Street for some 27 HOURS waiting to be among the first to purchase the new model of the Pad2, and quite proud that he missed his son's 12th birthday yesterday in favour of being in aforementioned queue. For heaven's sake - what on earth is this country coming to!?!?

I hope CLP brings some sense to the J Vine Show - heaven knows it needs it!

Sun still high in the sky here, and it's absolutely beautiful outside - almost a crime to come back to work if I'm honest!

And well said Sezza - I too get fed up with the constant speculation about the demise of the blog. If the BBC want to stop it, they will, regardless of how many posts/protests from us lot!

In honour of Babs ...... Carry On Regardless!

Deevs
x

To Chris and Jeremy

That was the most beautiful interview I have heard and it has brought me to tears

Good Luck and Love to you and your families

Chris, i think your Dad would be very proud of you

Sarah x x x

Chris, really enjoyed your stint on JV.

xx

Pen, Thanks for the heads up about JV and CLP xx

What a moving interview, I've never heard Chris so serious. I am so glad that everything has worked out and I echo Sezza, I think your Dad would be very proud.

Less than an hour to go until home time - Yippee. Looks like it's going to be a lovely walk home in the sunshine.

AliB
xx

Hiya:

Oooh, some movement on the blog - interesting!

Gail: re: the mini meet - of course you must be there!

boleyngirl: just for you, I will try to be less nice. I really didn't think it was possible, in life, to be too nice! I sincerely mean it when I say I have always enjoyed interacting with you, and it was so good to see your name pop up on the blog today. Just one small thing: Barney, witty? That's news to me!

Maddy: perhaps you are right, everyone should just post when they want to. I take that on board.

Sezza: yes, I am really interested. So pleased to hear that your contribution was appreciated. xx

If I may say, I am not speculating about the demise of the blog. Chris Evans writes his blog - if there are no regular contributions, and he is constantly ignored, it really will be a waste of his time - I would have thought that was fairly obvious, but it may just be me.

I know that we have moved on with the conversation now, but I hope you don't mind me posting this contribution.

C xx

Afternoon each..

Promised I`d be back.... ha,ha,ha {evil laugh in case anyone didnt get it}!

Have never been the biggest Babs fan but the bit i caught this morning sounded like great fun... i love the friday guest idea.

Now, taking Boleyngirls suggestions seriously... have you heard about that ChrissieS?Always at pop concerts.... And that AliB who writes on here..she doesnt get in til 4am!... and Sezza..has been out EVERY night this week... and that Deevs..well..the least said..... !!

Off now!

mSc x

Just to clarify..the above post was made tongue in cheek..hope nobody offended!

Busy last day at work for a week here... trying to tie up all loose ends that seem to be unravelling quicker than I`m winding... but hey ho! Have just had a flurry ice cream thing to aid thinking and it seems to be working...

Had a busy morning tho... ironing,vacuuming,mopping,dusting and bathroom cleaning all done prior to leaving the house this morning. Felt very virtuous until I found out Deevs had been to the supermarket prior to work...tres impressive! Also the fact that about 15 mins before i usually leave (which would have given me enough time to have a shower ) i remembered my hair also needed washing... queue damp Scoobs leaving slightly late but never mind! However, now debating whether to have my hair cut short again... although not sure the GM would ever talk to me again if i did...hmmmm.

Right, must go drink this lovely cuppa a colleague has put in front of me..sorrt, i mean finish sorting out work....(!)

mSc x

oooh...why am I yellow?! Anyone?!

mSc x

Hello.

I'm reconnected again HURRAH! (and seem to be getting connected more often).

Maybe we should let Babs have the last word 'Carry On Blogging'

MM xxx

PS Thanks for the heads up re Chris on Jeremy Vine, I'm now going to attempt to listen if it's not too much for my computer.

Scoobs: some very good "mean" comments! I did really laugh this morning when someone texted in that they are going to see Westlife tonight and said Chris something along the lines of "oh, sorry for you"!!

xx

I am so offended by comment 19 ;) xx Yeah right, I actually laughed out loud, do the youth call that LOL'ing??

Chrissie, I too chuckled to myself when I heard the Westlife comment and thought of you xx

BG, It's good to read you xx

I'm at home now, feet up watching Alan Titchmarsh! Off to my bestest friends soon, once she's done the school run.

Have a great weekend everyone.

AliB
xx

Hello Scoobs, hmm, sorry, I didn't realise all the good girls (not you Chezza!) had turned rock and roll. Not in the least offended.

Chrissie, don't go changing to try and please me - you've never let me down before. Read any good Tudor books lately - I can fully recommend the "Matthew Shardlake" novels by CJ Sansom about a hunchback lawer during the reign of Henry VIII.

I've nothing against niceness per say, I have been called nice myself on occasions. It's difficult to say what I mean without running risk of offending. I just think that life's a bit more fun with a bit of yang to balance out the ying, or whatever it is.

I think part of the problem here is that people want so much to fit in that they are nervous about saying things that may go against the grain, for fear that others will take the huff. I have just reread that last sentence and I realise that some people will take it personally, it is not aimed at anyone in particular I promise. I nearly deleted it but then I would have been guilty of the same thing. Now I'm confusing myself.

Anyway, I can hear an apple cart approaching so I'd better go and push it over.

A x

Hello Ali you dirty stop-out, I was in your neck of the woods a few weeks ago.
Ax

Bolly - I'm a good girl. Just ask Nic ....!

;-)

Good to "see" you.

Chezza
x

Chez! How the devil are you? How's the dancing? We stopped going in the summer because he kept adding new steps and we were, frankly, rubbish. But we can still to the basics as and when, and we do a good comedy Viennese waltz.

Anyway, toodly pip.

A x

LOL - we've not been shown the Vienese Waltz yet, although I fear it would be more Vienetta!!

We're mastering the Tango with our own inimitable style - dead posey innit! And I think of you every Sunday when we Turkish Towel our way through the Cha Cha Cha. Some weeks we're good, some weeks we're bad. Last week there were just not enough excuses and plenty of wine was consumed post dance class!

Tally Ho!

Chezza

x

Deevs..apart from on a Friday night eh?!

And Ali (thanks for your kind comments btw) and Chrissie..glad it made you smile! Could do the same for most regular but time doesnt permit unfortunately!

Whilst we are on about peeps not been on for a while.... where are you Roo? Yours posts made me smile everyday...hope all is well in yours and Jaspers world x

Anyway, am really offski now...very doubtful I`ll be able to get on next week so hope everyone has a wonderful weekend...and please keep the collective fingers crossed for the weather for me next week... have had verying forecasts from -10 to plus 20..hoping for the latter!

mSc x

That was a lovely, honest, deep, understanding interview Chris gave on JV show but I wish I hadn't had to listen to Martha & The Muffins leading up to it, on the other hand John Lennon's Starting Over was great and so appropriate.

All the time I was listening I kept on thinking about the young student doctor (Shane Ward lookalike) who was chatting to me when I was in HDU. He had split up from his girlfriend and young baby daughter as he was very ambitious and wanted to get on in the medical world but had made one mistake which was holding him back. He obviously felt guilty as well as ambitious and needed someone to talk to, I feel honoured that he chose me to confide in.

I do hope that his daughter will be as lucky as Jade & Noah are when he becomes a top consultant.

And I'm sure you're dad will be very proud of you Chris! I went off the rails a bit when my lovely mother passed away and I was 36, she was my best friend as well as my mother.

Have a lovely break Scoobydoobydoobydoooooooooo x x x

boleyngirl: I know just what you mean - sometimes the written word just doesn't come across the way it is intended. I've been guilty of saying the wrong thing on more than one occasion ... and equally, have not said things when I actually wanted to say them!

I'll help you with that applecart!

Just had a google for the Matthew Shardlake books - really quite fancy giving them a go - should I start with Book 1 - do the stories "run on" or are they all separate?

Sorry, I'll let you go, and just let me know when you can!

Have a lovely weekend.

C xx

Gail - absolutely see you in Edinburgh xx

JV interview was great, I just happened to be in the car at lunchtime on my way to M 8 S (thanks MC) when he came on. Worth a listen again.

Annie I drove back very careful to protect my precious cargo ;o))) cheers!

My boss left at 4.15 today and I just thought as he is the boss he thought he would leave early because the sun is shining - but he just called to apologise! He was going by the time on his office clock which he never changes much to my annoyance (sound familiar Chrissie?) and thought it was 5.15. He said sorry for leaving early but I'm not coming back in hahaha so I thought I would chance my luck and ask if that meant I could leave early also to which he replied why not it's the weekend and the sun is shining away and have a glass of wine! So I'm out of here.

Have a good weekend everyone!

Mary xx

Afternoon peeps - another 'patchy' blogger here. I think the blog has slowed down and as has been said when we had a blog in the morning and used it to argue about what Chris had posted or offered up suggestions etc for the 5pm slot it was more vibrant but until it is snuffed out of existance by Chris or the BBC, I will still dip in and read it and look forward to each and every (well almost!) comment.

Through the blog I have made some fab friends that I would never have had the opportunity to know - because you are scattered the length and breadth of the country - and some I have actually met and others are virtual friends but you have all enriched my life - ooh getting soppy now!

Anyhoo me and some of the non-virtual friends are getting together in Chester for the afternoon and evening on Saturday 9th April. Details on the CLP Bloggers discussion board. Please join us. I would love this to be seen by PJ, who I know was blogging the other day and I think Janet you are only a few miles away.

Take a look at the thread on FB and let me know if you can make it.
Deevs, if you and Nic fancy it with mini-Nic, Daisy is bringing her boys and then going on to do river or walls stuff. Easy to get from Brum on the train??

Right off to have an early tea as I am out dancing (modern jive) tonight!
Dozy - any horse liniment I can have for tomorrow?

ttfn, Crumpy xx

just a quickie:

mtd: you might want to try to read the Da*ly Ma*l webpage - terrific interview with the one and only David Cassidy!

Mary: what wonderful news - enjoy your wine, you deserve it!

CSN: hope everything went ok at the doc's today.

Well, I am heading off also - can't tell you how grateful I am that I don't have to go to work tomorrow! Hope everyone has a lovely weekend.

C xx

Hi Crumpy

We would love to join you in Chester on 9th April but "things" have to be discussed with other parties to see if this can happen - sorry to be cryptic, but I'm sure you know where I'm coming from ....!

Nearly home time - huzzah, huzzah and thrice huzzah!!!

Deevs
x

I absolutely understand, but just wanted to mention it.
did you know that Tim booth is playing the Glee Club in Brum soon.
I understand you know someone who dances like him!!

boleyngirl

Well done to your daughter, always useful to have a lawyer in the family.

Spookily enough I have am currently reading the latest Shardlake book, having read and thoroughly enjoyed all the others. I guess you've also read Wolf Hall which has a lot of the same characters. C J Sansom has also written a book set during the Spanish Civil War called Winter in Madrid which is also worth a read.

I was going to say that I'm sorry that what I post is not to everyone's liking but, on reflection, I don't actually give a flying one what anyone thinks.

For you Barney:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7tce6pyCf8

MM xxx

Evening each

Babs was lovely this morning.

Haven't read all the posts but, Gail, how remiss of me to leave you out of the minimeet. It wouldn't be the same without you.

Like Maddy, having lots of internet problems today - can't get email, can't get messages on FB, connection timing out etc......

So am switching off, can't stand the stress.

Hope everyone has a great FNWC and a lovely weekend.

xxxxx

Concerned - I finished Heartstone last week, I won't tell you everything that happens in the end, but I expect you already know the fate of the Mary Rose. Wolf Hall was probably my Book of the Year last year, I loved her style once I got used to the present tense format. I had previously though Cromwell was a bit of a cold fish but I actually fancied him in this, and I had my eyes opened re Thomas More too.

About to start "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro, here's my claim to fame - my brother has met him.

Not trying to have an exclusive conversation here, anyone can join in; however I wont be here as Friday night is flop night.

A x

MaddyMoon

I see myself more as -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8TRoMSG-5I

I'm back. T'internet is sorted thanks to son-in-law - what would I do without him?

BG: Have just finished re-reading Sister, a damned good read. Am now starting 'Mennonite in a Little Black Dress'.

xxx

LOL Barney.

Annie-I'm glad you're back on t'internet again. I think I'm back for good as well, last time I spoke to the call centre they advised me to regularly update my anti virus, each time I did things improved.

MM xxx

Hi Maddy

Think it's my av that's the problem. But hey ho, it's working now. I should really change providers but as my landline, broadband and tv are with bt it would be such a faff that I can't bear to think about it.

Anyway, problem solved for now and it's the weekend - lots of lovely stuff planned.

xxxxx

hello all

great day today, morning spent with mr bp and a room full of special chilrdren, great way to remind yourself about the important things in life

then lunch in pub garden with mr bp, some light shopping and finally our play, in front of real people! We didnt want to tell people it was one two nights so we could have a go acting without worries, but it went well (other then the fact I corpsed when I opened the door to my hubby)

Baggy

Nothing will ever get me to change my technical stuff Annie, once I get used to something that;s it even if something else could be better.

These companies can phone me, drop leaflets through my door, put leaflets in my magazines and stop me in shop doorways but they'll never change me.

MM xxx

Hi Maddy

glad to hear you are ok
I am the same, we might be paying over the odds for our services but it works and thats what is important to me ;-)

Hi Baggy.

Glad everything went well with the lunch, shoppin g and play. I love lunch in a pub garden on a nice sunny day.

It took me so much effort to get started with my gadgets in the first place, now I feel secure with what I have (until something goes wrong ha ha)

MM xxx

Maddy, I know what you mean, it was a pain when we moved into this house to get the wifi sorted but now I can open either of my laptops (work or mine) or my phone or the PS3 and it works, thats pricesless :-)

And no, I haven't a clue how it all works

I thought about getting an ipad but think its beyone me!

The TV & video was a bit of a challenge when we went digital but that all OK now except that we seem have less to watch despite all the extra channels.

MM xxx

Maddy, I agree, we are now watching rude tube though which is great Friday night telly

Baggy-I switched on CH4 to watch Peter Kay's repeat of X Factor, Pop Idol on ice (whatever) until I noticed that I'd been looking at Saturday's schedule.

I think my brain's been affected by my computer problems. Anyway, I'm looking forward to that tomorrow night.

MM xxx

Maddy, at least now you have something to look forward too]

we tend just to sit down and see whats on, old fashioned I know but it works

That's probably the best way Baggy, it's not good to plan your life around television.

MM xxx

Evening All,

I've been thinking about the 'blog debate' in the bath and I do some of my best thinking in there....It'll come as no surprise to anyone who knows me, that I've had a couple of cold drinks (as the great and hopefully - soon to return - Danny Baker would say), so I may regret this in the morning, but here goes.....

I only know Chris through the radio, the tv, the blog and his books.
Ok! I've met him a few times, but I was so concerned about myself and how I came across, that I learned nothing about him other than the fact that he can accommodate this behaviour with charm and friendship.

I think I learned more about Chris today - listening to him pour his heart out to Jeremy - than I have in the 18 years I have followed him.
And do you know what struck me most? It was when he talked about the nature of his relationships, about how they come and go in cycles. I have always wondered about this...from his team at R1 and then Virgin, to Webbo and Gazza. What he said made absolute sense. Almost everyone and everything have a phase, and with Chris, it can be a short phase (unless your name's Tash).

I don't think he's bored or fed up with this blog!

It's just that he's more excited by and interested in other things right now...

In fact, if you look at it. Some of the stuff he has gone through over the last few years - both good and bad - it's a wonder that this hasn't happened sooner.

I think it would serve us all well to look at our own cycles.
I'm not sure how long Chris has been hosting this blog, but I think it's about seven years (come on Deevs - correct me).
I wasn't here at the beginning, I think I've been blogging for 4-5 years, but when I came on here, I can remember then, hearing calls for missing bloggers to return.

I spent a good couple of years on here blogging with impunity. Not a day went past when I didn't spend an hour or more, reading, contributing and becoming friends with the blog. I didn't have time for it, but that didn't matter!
More recently - I doubt that I get on here more than once a week. No bad reason, I just don't. It doesn't have that magnetism for me that it clearly still does for others.

How many of you can honestly say that when something's come up that needed your undivided attention - you haven't just walked away from here, knowing that on your return, you'd be welcomed back with gusto.
I know that this often works in reverse and that we've all (and still do) benefit from the friendship and support that we've come to love on here, when we need it most.

Moving back to Chris, Christoph Lambie Pie, CLP....
Let's not forget that whilst this may not be his favourite place to hang out right now. He still takes time from what must be a reasonably busy schedule (to say the least) to say Hi and to bring us all back together again.

I don't use this word often, as it has the ability to make you look ridiculous without doing anything itself, but I 'know' that Chris values this blog and it's contributors.

Who can forget the invite to the o2?
How well did he look after us there?

I am genuinely not bragging now (and you'll see why in a minute) but......

When I went for a drink with Chris last year, we arrived in the function room and he headed towards a guy at the buffet, with me in tow.
He greeted him and then introduced me..."This is Paul, he's one of the bloggers" I recoiled and stuttered "Oh, don't say that!" to which he replied "why not"...
Why not indeed? With the benefit of hindsight, he didn't introduce me as 'one of the bloggers' and then wink and punch his mate in the arm. He simply introduced me that way, and ,I think, with some personal pleasure.
To this day, I wonder if the reason that I have not received another tweet from him is to do with that. It could also be to do with the fact that I didn't see him again that night, as I was too scared to follow him around like a love sick puppy, so spent the night chatting to other people, until he came over and said "I'm off now, are you ok?"

Anyway! I'm really going on now, but my point is this......

He will come and go.
We will come and go.

As long as we are all still here or hereabouts, it's all good.

Take care friends

Love

Rips

x

rips, nice blog
thanks

Well said Rips.

You speak sense after a couple of cold drinks, goodness knows what I'd say after brandy ha ha.

Our lives, including Chris's, don't stay the same day in day out and we will all come and go depending on what else is going on.

MM xxx

Thanks, wasn't sure what to expect after that.....

I also wanted to mention that I don't think I've heard Chris so exposed, scared, nervous and out of his comfort zone before.
That's probably why he did it!

Rips

x

Rips....

One of the best posts I have ever read on this blog. Totally unassuming, yet appreciative.

There's me thinking that you woke up on the 'vacant' sofa!

Anyone that hasn't read Chris' latest book? Do it.

MTF.xx

Morning all

Can I just say, well said Rips! I was feeling guilty for not posting often enough and 'keeping the blog going'. You are right, contributors come and go in phases and no doubt I will continue to blog from time to time but maybe not as often as I used to either.

Thanks for the heads up on the David Cassidy interview Chrissie, I read it last night and weren't the pictures (the old ones) dreamy????

I have read all of the posts but can't remember any more to comment.

Hugs to everybody ((((()))))

Laters

mtd ffb xxx

Rips,

Good quote thank you

Everything I would have liked to have said but didn't know the words

Sezza xxx

Good morning everyone:

Busy day here already ChezS - I'm in a house-working mood!

Just to say I have had a cup of tea and listened to Chris on Jeremy's show yesterday. Just wonderful - how honest was Chris - the only reason his life had those fairly quick cycles was because he just couldn't let anything touch too him too deeply. He is just the loveliest man, so honest, and I absolutely love him.

mtd: glad to see you read the interview. Yes, the photographs were fantastic - I hate to say it, I actually bought most of those sweaters those wee lassies are wearing!

Have a good day everyone - off to clean the bathroom!

C xx

Good morning bloggers!

Did you guys catch CLP on with Jeremy Vine yesterday? I was listening in the office at work - it made me feel very emotional.........................

I hope you are all ok.

I was wondering Oxford or Cambridge in the boat race this avo?

I also just wanted to say break a leg to Mr & Mrs Baggy for tonight x x x x

Catch you all later x x

Afternoon all,

I did want to say good morning but I see have just missed it ,Lazy day today ,busy tomorrow.

I didnt hear the JVshow yesterday but that is on the to do list and wil listen with gusto.

I have the greatest of respect for Chris and think that he is an all round good egg .Ifeel that we should be jolly grateful that, he still in his very busy day and life that he leads ,that he should take time out to give a little of that to us ,because that is exactly what he is doing ,Not many people of his status would .


Rips ,thank you for that most sincere post you said it well.

Hello to eveyone else ,cant name you all but nice to see you .

Had a great evening last night ceebrating one of my SIL's 40th B/day

Soory ,pressed the wrong button there , was just saying that his party went off very well and everyone enjoyed it .
Hence the lazy day today ,dont seem to be too lively when Ive had a few these days ,infact I seem to be drinking less .maybe thats not such a bad thing either .

Right off I go to try and get my head or should I say my backside into gear .See you later .

Take care ....Bids.xxx.

Hi all from a lovely sunny but cold Upstate New York.

I too heard CLP on JV, it was lovely to hear him speaking so calmly and honestly. He is obviously in a great place at the moment, and long may it continue.

Today is the WWF Earth hour, when everybody around the world is asked to turn off all electrical appliances and lighting at 8.30pm for one hour (hence the name) to raise awareness about how much energy we use.

So come on everyone turn off the lights and the tv etc and get out the candles, have a romantic evening or invite your friends around for a game of cards, board games, have a laugh and do your bit for our fragile planet.

Ok campaigning over, I'm off to take the dog and OH out for a walk and enjoy the start of spring.

Bids glad you a good time at SILs party I think we could do with cutting down the vino a bit too, but it's Saturday so...

MaW x

Hello MaW.

I'm all for raising awareness and helping to save the planet but instead of us little people turning off our electrical equipment for one hour I think that the big boys should set the first example, i.e. they could cut down on the lighting around the Houses of Parliament, The White House and why are shops, etc lit up when they are closed. This could turn into a long post so I'll now shut up.

Besides if I switch off my TV at 8.30pm I will miss the first 30 minutes of the repeat of Peter Kay's X Factor, Pop Idol, on ice (whatever) spoof.

Enjoy your walk with the dog and OH and I hope it soon gets warmer in NY. It's cooler here today.

MM xxx

Afternoon each

Rips me dear - well said.

MaW - we're doing our bit for the planet today - no water, heaven knows why but hope it's sorted soon.

Just back from a lovely lunch with shopaholic friend and no shops were visited for once thank goodness.

xxxx

Good Afternoon,

Oh my goodness! I found a bird hopping around in the rabbit pen this morning. It was trying to find a way out because it couldn't fly with a broken wing. I rang the RSPCA who told me where to take it. Unfortunately I received word that it had to be put to sleep because it was the most humane thing to do with the extent of it's injury. Whether we are here for a short or long stint (the bird was only young) when we touch upon each others hearts it remains with us forever. The female blackbird ran into the corner of the rabbit cage and didn't move until we were able to capture her in a box to take her to the vets. Even the rabbit made friends with her. I liked her and are sorry to see her go. I almost wished I had allowed her to stay where she was, in hope that she would mend and fly off one day, yet I couldn't stand the thought of being responsible for any cruelty for the pain she may have suffered without any recourse. Right or wrong, what's done is done. The bird was only with us for a short while but it has made a big impact on me. She seemed so delicate and fragile, and it seemed so strange to be carrying a bird, that would usually fly freely in the skies, in a car to the vets. I did get a thankyou for our part but I think a big thank you needs to remain with the RSPCA who gave an excellant service free of charge.

If you look directly up above your head at the sky, it's a very long way up.

Lots of love xx

Just listened to Chris on the JV show. How honest was he? And one of those rare people who learn from their mistakes.

SB - meant to say, the 8yr old says the ipad is easypeasy and once you've got it, you'll love it.

Hi Rebecca

xxxx

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o4KMcYTlG00

Afternoon everyone, here's a song to sing along to.

(If I have done it right!)

MTF.xx

Well it seems to have worked.

Its so gloomy here today, I hope someone is getting some sunshine!

I had to part company with Puffball yesterday and although I will be sad to see her go, she had quite simply done enough. Thems hard miles that she has covered and the early winter was certainly challenge enough, so she did well.

Taxiing in the family car today, so no let up on the driving, oh no!

MTF.xx

#73, I am assuming that others have the bouncing blog too?

MTF.xx

Yes, we're all bouncing MTF.

We've not had much sun either.

xxxx

Hi Annie.

Lets hope the sun will come out tomorrow :)

MTF.xx

If you missed CLP on Jeremy Vine's show ...

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-12871480


Blog jumping again ...... ugh!

x

Just popped in to say hello to everyone.

Cold and gloomy here.

I am resting this weekend on doctors orders, this bug is becoming a nightmare.

Loved the bouncing song. LOL!

Hope you're all having a good weekend.

Annie, glad you enjoyed your lunch.

MTF, sorry to hear about puffball.

csn. xx

#78. Thank you Deevs.

csn. xx

Poor you CSN, your bug seems to like you! Hope it goes soon.

Our water problem seems to be resolved. Scottish Water website says the problem has been fixed and the system is recharging. Daughter still has no water at all - she sent the 11yr old round to me with the kettle as I still have a trickle of water. Obviously she didn't want to walk the streets with a kettle in her hand but the 11yr old didn't mind.

xxxx

Thank you Anne, think it loves me.

What a nightmare having no water, bet little one thought it was very funny walking through the streets with a kettle.

csn. xx

He wasn't fazed at all CSN. I did expect a queue at my door when the neighbours saw him but it hasn't happened yet.

He came round this morning for a shower because I said my shower was working. He stripped off, stood under the shower - nothing - hardly a drip. Thank goodness I'd had mine before the water pressure died.

xxxx

LOL at your song MTF!

MM xxx

CSN, Take care of yourself, sounds like your bug is a really nasty one

MTF, Poor old Puffball, hope her replacement is a joy to drive. Thought of you the other night when we saw a herd of deer in the field on the way home - no otters though!

Annie, good luck with the water, hope it sorts itself out soon

Sezza xxx

I thought the bouncing blog was a thing of the past with this new posting system (which is very annoying once it gets to beyond 100!) so thought a jolly tune to accompany the bounce would be a bit of fun.

Right, the clocks in the Mobs have officially gone forward, I am determined not to lose an hour in the night. I never normally sit down by this time, so an hour less to the evening will go unnoticed.

Did I read that Peter Kay is on tonight? I hope it doesn't clash with the Bond film.

I wonder what kind of deer they were Sezza?

MTF.xx

MTF, I think they were fallow deer - there are loads of them around

We saw a muntjac on the roadside as well

Sezza xx

PS I've never seen the bog bounce - wonder why?

We have mainly red deer here, but regular sightings of the barking muntjac and roe too.

I wish there were fallow deer, they are my favourite. We see them when we go to the New Forest.

When they are 'in velvet' they are a wonderful sight.

MTF.xx

Just nipped back.

Sezza, I hope your bog never bounces :) xx

there's nothing worse than a bouncing bog AAARRRHHHH

Is that you speaking from experience Maw?

Yikes!!

MTF.xx

Am pleased to report my bog has stayed firmly in place!!

No Bouncing Bog Here!!

No sunshine either - hopefully that'll change later

Sezza xxxx

Morning all
not even opened the curtains yet so no weather report today.

Yesterday me and GD drove down to cornwall to take my mother and ex-mother in law out for lunch. Drive was long but stress free and whilst it was a little "stilted" in the conversation stakes I know we made two old, lonely ladies day. So we have vowed to do it a bit more often and that makes me feel good.

Great post Rips - well said as always after a couple of cold drinks.

Also - HAPPY BIRTHDAY ANNIE!!!!!

Right going to listen to Chris and then get my act together

Happy Roast Day everyone
debs
x

Morning Debs and everyone.

Hope you all put your clocks forward.

Happy Birthday Annie, have a wonderful day with your family. xxxxxx

csn. xx

Good morning all,

Lovely sunny day here on the south coast ,and life is good .


Just popping in to wishe our lovely Annie a very Happy Birthday and hope that you have a lovely day.

Right off I go and see you later .

Take care Bids .xxx.

Morning All,

Just popping in to say...

Happy Birthday Annie - have a great day with the family.

Mary xx

Hiya:

Really glad I had a quick look-in this morning - I wouldn't have wanted to miss Annie's birthday!

Annie: hope you have a really lovely day, and I trust you will be very spoiled! xx

CSN: I know this is just a nightmare for you. Glad to see you are taking things easy. xx

Bids: good to see you had a lovely evening with your s-i-l. Hope you are feeling brighter today!

MTF: shame to see the end of Puffball, but she certainly served you well, didn't she?!

Rebecca: sad about the wee bird, but I am sure it was the right thing for it to be put to sleep.

Debs: hiya - roast beef for us today - what's yours?!

Maddy: hope you enjoyed Peter Kay last night - I really wanted to see it, but we watched Harry Potter on DVD instead... the things we do for love!

I am really looking forward to the lighter evenings, but I hate it when we lose that hour. I know this sounds crazy, but I always feel a bit jet-lagged until I get used to the "time difference"!

Hope everyone has a lovely day.

C xx

Morning all

Happy Birthday Annie!!!

Chrissie, lovely to see you here on a Sunday. You are not mad at all, I always get the clocks forward jet lag as well, it takes a couple of days to get used to doesn't it?

Not much planned for today apart from watching the replay of the F1 (avoiding all forms of news until then - I know I am taking a risk being on the computer at all in case somebody gives it away).

Laters

mtd ffb xxx

Morning All

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Annie xxxx

Love from a very sunny Toon at the moment!

Susan