Tim cutting the lawn, with Lucien and Amandine (in background) |
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Thursday 17 April 2014
Grandchildren here
Latest Article
Barring any late changes of plan, my latest article should be published in Radio Communications magazine next month (June edition out mid May). I am currently awaiting the page proofs to check. This will be the third article in this publication in recent years.
I have had a string in Practical Wireless as well as a few in German, Czech and Japanese mags translated before printing. One article is currently awaiting publication in the USA. This has already appeared in a book printed in the UK.
The articles cover a wide range of subject material.
I have had a string in Practical Wireless as well as a few in German, Czech and Japanese mags translated before printing. One article is currently awaiting publication in the USA. This has already appeared in a book printed in the UK.
The articles cover a wide range of subject material.
Wednesday 16 April 2014
World War One - what a waste!
At the moment there is a lot in the media about WW1. With the perspective of 100 years behind me, I cannot but think this was the most pointless of wars for ordinary people. Millions dead and for what real gain?
Just 21 years later we were at war again, arguably because the settlement at the end of WW1 was so bad.
As far as I can see we only got involved in WW1 (sorry, ordinary folk were made to get involved) because our elders and "betters" had agreed nonsense alliances and stirred up hatred.
The Christmas truce of 1914 was a real leveler: ordinary folk just wanted to live peaceful lives. Ordinary folk were just cannon-fodder in WW1 on both sides for their aristocratic elders. Looking back, I cannot but believe this carnage should have been avoided. This was just slaughter.
The kaiser may have been bad, but I doubt the masses of Germen men and women were. This is the same nation that just 50 years earlier had seen the first playing of Ein Deutches Requiem by Brahms; a nation rich in culture. Hitler's evil was arguably a result of the settlement following WW1. Looking back at all the arguments for and against WW1, nothing has changed my views: it was a bad war that should never have started.
Unless we are careful we in the west will believe our own propaganda and get involved in a new European war over parts of Ukraine. There are always several views of a particular situation.
We must learn the lessons of history. Don't let tyrants have it their way but don't fight pointless wars. Listen to the real people, not politicians, military generals and aristocrats. Ordinary people matter most - listen to their voices.
Just 21 years later we were at war again, arguably because the settlement at the end of WW1 was so bad.
As far as I can see we only got involved in WW1 (sorry, ordinary folk were made to get involved) because our elders and "betters" had agreed nonsense alliances and stirred up hatred.
Brahms |
The kaiser may have been bad, but I doubt the masses of Germen men and women were. This is the same nation that just 50 years earlier had seen the first playing of Ein Deutches Requiem by Brahms; a nation rich in culture. Hitler's evil was arguably a result of the settlement following WW1. Looking back at all the arguments for and against WW1, nothing has changed my views: it was a bad war that should never have started.
Unless we are careful we in the west will believe our own propaganda and get involved in a new European war over parts of Ukraine. There are always several views of a particular situation.
We must learn the lessons of history. Don't let tyrants have it their way but don't fight pointless wars. Listen to the real people, not politicians, military generals and aristocrats. Ordinary people matter most - listen to their voices.
Physiotherapy
For a number of weeks now I have been attended a physio session (90 minutes each week) at a hospital in Ely. These are group sessions (5 in the group) for people like me who have had a stroke or a stroke-like condition. There are just 2 more (of 8) sessions to go. They have been excellent.
When these end I shall continue physio but in Newmarket where there is a small charge. Up to now, all treatment has been free on the NHS. There is a small fee for referrals to Newmarket.
When these end I shall continue physio but in Newmarket where there is a small charge. Up to now, all treatment has been free on the NHS. There is a small fee for referrals to Newmarket.
Tuesday 15 April 2014
Beautiful weather and gardening
The back garden - flowering cherry on RHS in lawn |
This afternoon we had a trip to the garden centre to buy some rose spray to rid the roses of greenfly and blackfly as our usual treatment of soapy water was not enough.
After we got back my wife cut the back lawn. I did a little, but but my giddiness was too great to do too much.
Monday 14 April 2014
Son's activities
Son 1, wife and 2 kids safely back from seeing the in-laws in Paris and now son 2 tells me he and family are going to spend a few days in Holland. "London" grandchildren (son number 1's) due Thursday for Easter weekend.
Health largely unchanged: still giddy on my feet and feel a little sick inside. Eating is still not a fun experience (stroke artifact).
Health largely unchanged: still giddy on my feet and feel a little sick inside. Eating is still not a fun experience (stroke artifact).
Sunday 13 April 2014
Burwell Windmill - officially reopened today
Today, Sir James Paice MP officially opened the restored Burwell Windmill. This was first opened nearly 200 years ago and it has recently received National Lottery funding for a full restoration, which as now been finished.
The embedded video will NOT play on some Apple devices that don't support Flash.
Saturday 12 April 2014
Windmill official opening - April 13th 2014
Our recently restored windmill, just over our front garden wall, has its grand reopening tomorrow Sunday April 13th starting at 12 noon. The official ribbon will be cut by Sir James Paice MP at 12.45 local time.
See http://www.burwellmuseum.org.uk.btck.co.uk/SpecialEvents/GrandUnveilingofWindmill .
Any of our friends are welcome to pop in for a cup of tea.
Friday 11 April 2014
Anglesey Abbey (again)
Silver birches and tulips |
Bluebells |
Blossom (in Burwell) |
Thursday 10 April 2014
Birds in Mill Close
Compared with our old place, there are far fewer bird species at our newer home next to Burwell windmill. Although I can hear great tits I have seen none on the nut feeders in my garden.
Surprisingly, there is a pair of red leg partridges that seem quite tame and which wander around the garden and the close. There are plenty of pigeons and collared doves, but very few small birds. In the recent RSPB bird count I only saw 1 species (wood pigeon) in the hour whereas at the old home I would see 10-12 species each 1 hour count.
The newer location is not quite as rural but we do have orchards and allotments very nearby, and a garden with plenty of bushes and trees. There have been muntjac deer and rabbits next door but not seen these in our garden yet.
Surprisingly, there is a pair of red leg partridges that seem quite tame and which wander around the garden and the close. There are plenty of pigeons and collared doves, but very few small birds. In the recent RSPB bird count I only saw 1 species (wood pigeon) in the hour whereas at the old home I would see 10-12 species each 1 hour count.
The newer location is not quite as rural but we do have orchards and allotments very nearby, and a garden with plenty of bushes and trees. There have been muntjac deer and rabbits next door but not seen these in our garden yet.
Out this morning (stroke) and front lawn cut this afternoon
A nice change of scenery this morning on my stroke recovery journey: a walk of about 0.8km down to the home of our old friends Samara and Paul. We stopped for about 1 hour and had coffee and tea, then we walked home again with plenty of blossom about. This morning I reduced my peg liquid feed (directly into my stomach) down to 700ml at 125ml/hour. Last week it was 800ml and when I first came out of hospital it was 1000ml. For the trip today I disconnected the peg liquid feed. I supplement the liquid feed with pureed and mash-able food by mouth.
Overall, I still feel giddy when walking - although I feel this is improving - and a slight feeling of sickness. Feeding and drinking are not enjoyable experiences still. I have resumed taking some of my morning pills in a bid to stop the feelings of heartburn and sickness.
This afternoon I battled my heartburn, sickness and giddiness to cut the front lawn. It was harder work than the rear lawn that I cut last weekend. Today I have felt more unwell than for several days because of my sickness. I hope taking the morning pills again will help.
Overall, I still feel giddy when walking - although I feel this is improving - and a slight feeling of sickness. Feeding and drinking are not enjoyable experiences still. I have resumed taking some of my morning pills in a bid to stop the feelings of heartburn and sickness.
This afternoon I battled my heartburn, sickness and giddiness to cut the front lawn. It was harder work than the rear lawn that I cut last weekend. Today I have felt more unwell than for several days because of my sickness. I hope taking the morning pills again will help.
Wednesday 9 April 2014
Ely's Cannon
Not far from Ely cathedral is located this cannon, presented to the city in 1860 by Queen Victoria. The cannon is Russian and it was captured during the Crimean War.
Do not forget that Crimea was fought over a long time ago. The recent Russian take-over of Crimea is really nothing new. I just wish some legal framework could be created acceptable to Ukraine, Russia, the EU and the USA , remembering Crimea was once part of Russia until given to Ukraine in the days of the USSR. Since those days the politics of Ukraine has altered a lot. Crimea has been home of the Russian Black Sea fleet for very many years. Our stance in the west on Crimea is a little odd when most who live there are ethnic Russians.
Do not forget that Crimea was fought over a long time ago. The recent Russian take-over of Crimea is really nothing new. I just wish some legal framework could be created acceptable to Ukraine, Russia, the EU and the USA , remembering Crimea was once part of Russia until given to Ukraine in the days of the USSR. Since those days the politics of Ukraine has altered a lot. Crimea has been home of the Russian Black Sea fleet for very many years. Our stance in the west on Crimea is a little odd when most who live there are ethnic Russians.
Energy Tariffs
I always find this a hassle. WHY do we have to have such confusion over suppliers and tariffs? I am not one to change suppliers to get a better deal as the prices usually go up to match within months.
Call me old fashioned but I'd prefer ALL energy supplies to be nationalised (gas, electric, oil, wind etc) so the customer rather than a few shareholders benefit. It seems odd that something we ALL depend on is in private (profit motivated) ownership where the first responsibility is to shareholders rather than customers. Surely in all forms of energy, the customer should be the number 1 priority?
I was very impressed in Iceland 2 years ago: garage prices were the same everywhere in the country whether in towns or out in the wilds. You knew you were always getting the best prices for petrol or diesel. Simple.
How much easier it would be if we had a national energy supplier offering all customers the very best tariffs? They say competition is "good" but I question this for essentials like energy. Surely when it comes to domestic gas, electricity or oil we all want clear tariffs with the lowest costs together with security of supplies? How can this be so in a market driven economy? We are trading the needs of customers against the dividends and share values for a few. This cannot be right or fair.
Call me old fashioned but I'd prefer ALL energy supplies to be nationalised (gas, electric, oil, wind etc) so the customer rather than a few shareholders benefit. It seems odd that something we ALL depend on is in private (profit motivated) ownership where the first responsibility is to shareholders rather than customers. Surely in all forms of energy, the customer should be the number 1 priority?
I was very impressed in Iceland 2 years ago: garage prices were the same everywhere in the country whether in towns or out in the wilds. You knew you were always getting the best prices for petrol or diesel. Simple.
How much easier it would be if we had a national energy supplier offering all customers the very best tariffs? They say competition is "good" but I question this for essentials like energy. Surely when it comes to domestic gas, electricity or oil we all want clear tariffs with the lowest costs together with security of supplies? How can this be so in a market driven economy? We are trading the needs of customers against the dividends and share values for a few. This cannot be right or fair.
Cold getting better
Surprising how much better I feel today (stroke): my cold has all but gone and I managed a good breakfast with 1.5 Weetabix, half a banana and a boiled egg. Later I have physio in Ely for 1.5 hours and then the speech and language lady calling here at 4 pm.
By teatime I shall be knackered.
Our "London" grandchildren come to stay next Thursday, so we have a week yet. The "Kent" grandchildren were here last week for a few days. Edward's photo attached. he is a lovely looking lad.
By teatime I shall be knackered.
Our "London" grandchildren come to stay next Thursday, so we have a week yet. The "Kent" grandchildren were here last week for a few days. Edward's photo attached. he is a lovely looking lad.
Tuesday 8 April 2014
More small steps
Today for the first time since my stroke I helped to make our bed completely. Up to now I'd managed sheets and pillow slips, but nothing else before being totally overwhelmed with fatigue. Today, I did the lot with Lis without being totally exhausted. 2 weeks ago I could not have done this, so my levels of general stamina MUST be getting better, without me realising it.
Everything in the garden is early
Back garden |
Local rape seed field |
Compared with last spring, everything seems about 4-6 weeks earlier coming through.
Top LHS is a view of part of the back garden showing spirea well out as is the ornamental cherry in the lawn (branches visible - now in blossom). Both red robin bushes have lots of new season growth. The trellis marks our boundary. The ivy covered trees are next door. The lawns have been cut several times already.
In the fields, oilseed rape is now bright yellow and in the garden most trees are coming out and there is plenty of blossom around.
Monday 7 April 2014
Real friends
Funny how a serious illness really shows up who are your REAL friends. Some that you thought would stand by you just fall by the wayside and some that you'd not expected turn out to be incredibly supportive. and see me almost weekly or keep in touch by phone or internet.
Since my brain bleed (stroke) I have had to be at home far more than before (I am not allowed to drive) and we have had nearly 60 different people come to the bungalow to see us. There are a few missing people that I would have expected, but have not been at all or just once, with persuasion. Others have visited several times: they wanted to come and to come back.
My thanks to loyal good friends who have been to call in person or who have been in touch via the internet or phone.
Since my brain bleed (stroke) I have had to be at home far more than before (I am not allowed to drive) and we have had nearly 60 different people come to the bungalow to see us. There are a few missing people that I would have expected, but have not been at all or just once, with persuasion. Others have visited several times: they wanted to come and to come back.
My thanks to loyal good friends who have been to call in person or who have been in touch via the internet or phone.
Sunday 6 April 2014
Boat Race
Like in professional soccer, it always seems a great shame there are not more English (or even UK) nationals in the teams. This is after all a very English occasion between 2 great English universities. Most in the teams seemed to be "foreigners".
Very few top flight professional footballers are English. This didn't used to be the case.
See http://theboatrace.org/ .
A quiet day at home
http://nutricia.com/images/sized/images/uploads/Images/933/Nutrison_pack_1L-130x186.png |
I shall be on my liquid feed until around 6pm (fed via my stomach peg). The feed is currently 800ml a day which is supplemented by foods and drinks through my mouth about 4-5 times a day. If I go out, I can disconnect the feed for a short period.
As I write this I see I've had 277ml of the 800ml of liquid feed, so I shall be "connected up" for all of the afternoon. At least the unit is portable and can easily be moved around our home.
See http://nutricia.com/our-products/tube-nutrition-medical-devices/nutrison/medical-background .
Saturday 5 April 2014
Back lawn cut
Another post-stroke goal met. Lis (my wife) was out at her choir and I was determined to get the back lawn cut. Last time, Lis did about 70% and I just cut a few strips. Well, with 4 short breaks and battling my giddiness, I managed to cut the whole back lawn on my own. It was pretty knackering but I managed it! The lawn is about 60 feet x 25 feet average: it is not a small lawn.
Next target: the front lawn, which is 80 feet long but narrower!
Next target: the front lawn, which is 80 feet long but narrower!
Friday 4 April 2014
Walk to library: 1.5 mile round trip
Our local library is a decent walk from our home, so a walk there and back is challenging in my present condition (stroke). It must be about 1.5 miles round trip. Although with my wife at my side supporting me I made it, I was very giddy by the end and glad to sit down both in the library and when back home.
I am looking forward to doing this again (reasonably soon) without feeling so giddy.
I am trying to extend my walking further now. Today I walked "around the block" at Mill Close and Mill Lane twice as well, totally unassisted. Today I have walked further than ever since my stroke. Every day I intend to walk quite a bit.
I am looking forward to doing this again (reasonably soon) without feeling so giddy.
I am trying to extend my walking further now. Today I walked "around the block" at Mill Close and Mill Lane twice as well, totally unassisted. Today I have walked further than ever since my stroke. Every day I intend to walk quite a bit.
Mist or pollution?
Sahara Desert |
Both my son's and my own car have had a thin layer of Saharan sand on them, although this in itself is not that uncommon if the wind and pressure patterns are in the right direction.
The Sahara Desert is well over 1500km away and it is amazing that sand from there is regularly deposited here in the UK. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sahara .
Thursday 3 April 2014
Greenfly on roses - grandson
http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advice/ACEImages/RHS_PUB0003259roseaphids_562901.JPG |
We heard that, as soon as they got home, our grandson was in THEIR garden checking THEIR roses for greenfly! Of course, he found some and wanted to spray them.
See http://apps.rhs.org.uk/advicesearch/Profile.aspx?pid=697
Walking around the block
Surprising that small things can mean so much.
One of my aims since having my stroke has been to walk about 400m around our close and windmill on my own. Well, today I did the "circuit" twice on my own without even grounding my stick.
The next aim is to walk further, such as to the Bank or Post Office on my own later this month.
A year ago I had no idea this (stroke) bombshell was going to hit me. In many ways I am lucky. With hard work and determination I have every hope of a (near) full recovery given time. I have just got to continue with exercises and continue to walk as much as I can. Already I am feeling a lot better than I was some months ago. I have to hope that I continue to improve.
My main issues remain balance when walking and a slight discomfort inside . Both are better than they were. I still feel clumsy doing things too. Speech and swallow also need to be improved.
One of my aims since having my stroke has been to walk about 400m around our close and windmill on my own. Well, today I did the "circuit" twice on my own without even grounding my stick.
The next aim is to walk further, such as to the Bank or Post Office on my own later this month.
A year ago I had no idea this (stroke) bombshell was going to hit me. In many ways I am lucky. With hard work and determination I have every hope of a (near) full recovery given time. I have just got to continue with exercises and continue to walk as much as I can. Already I am feeling a lot better than I was some months ago. I have to hope that I continue to improve.
My main issues remain balance when walking and a slight discomfort inside . Both are better than they were. I still feel clumsy doing things too. Speech and swallow also need to be improved.
Speech and Language visit
Today, the Speech and Language therapist called on one of her regular visits. She is pleased with my progress, with voice a bit stronger (again) and speaking better than on her last visit. She suggested some more foods to eat by mouth.
Progressing, slowly but steadily.
Progressing, slowly but steadily.
Wednesday 2 April 2014
Setting up new PC
I had a surprise today: my Inspiron 15R does NOT have a touch sensitive screen after all. Dell assure me I did not order, or pay for such a screen The next surprise was a sort of malware program called "optimizer pro" which managed to install itself. A free call to 0800 028 2660 ( the FREE Dell support number) soon had this removed and the PC fully checked remotely. WSPR, Spectran and Ccleaner all installed and worked without issues.
Tuesday 1 April 2014
New PC here
My new PC is here and will be set up tomorrow all being well. The essential programs are Spectran and WSPR related so I can use my favourite amateur radio mode (WSPR) again. I am waiting until tomorrow so the grandchildren are not around.
See: http://www.dell.com/uk/p/inspiron-15r-5521/pd
See: http://www.dell.com/uk/p/inspiron-15r-5521/pd
Strimmer Wire
Our strimmer had run out of nylon cord. Visiting the local Homebase today to get new cord I was amazed that there appear to be hundreds of different varieties to choose from, depending on maker, model and age. My son and I had to ring home to check we were getting the right one.
Be warned, go armed with make and model number or you too will be confused. Thankfully I got 10%
off as it was a seniors day (Tuesday).
Be warned, go armed with make and model number or you too will be confused. Thankfully I got 10%
off as it was a seniors day (Tuesday).
View of our house from the windmill next door
In my present (wobbly balance) state of health because of my stroke , I cannot climb up the inside of the fully restored windmill right next door to us.
This morning, our son managed a sneak preview and he took some photos of our bungalow from the very top floor of the mill.
Our bungalow from the mill |
You can see my V2000 vertical and 2m halo on the garage roof if you look at the blown up photo. You may JUST be able to see my HF Par end-fed wire too but you will need to look carefully at the full sized photo.
For the second time this year, a party of school children is visiting the museum, and windmill. The windmill has its official opening on Sunday April 13th.
See http://www.burwellmuseum.org.uk.btck.co.uk/StevensMill
The windmill,next to our bungalow, is the highest spot in the village. The church, about 400m away, is on the second highest ground.
Burwell Church from the top of the windmill |
New PC due today
According to the tracking data, my new Inspiron 15R PC is due to arrive any time now. It has been dispatched from their factory so is ready. When it arrives I need to check for updates and install WSPR and Spectran software as well as CCleaner, Firefox and VLC media player. My old versions of Photoshop Elements (V2) and MS Office (2003) may not install? We'll see. With 1TB of hard drive there should be no shortage of space for apps,but it does depend on them working OK on a 64 bit machine.
I am using my wife's PC to write this and that is 64 bit Dell machine and both WSPR and Spectran installed OK with Win 7. Let's hope Win 8.1 is OK too.
I am using my wife's PC to write this and that is 64 bit Dell machine and both WSPR and Spectran installed OK with Win 7. Let's hope Win 8.1 is OK too.
Monday 31 March 2014
Netgear WN1000RP Universal Wi-Fi Range Extender
Netgear Wifi Extender |
The extender takes the off-air packets and regenerates them so the remote signal is considerably improved. I believe the speed is reduced but we have a very fast connection anyway. It does NOT use the mains wiring to send the signal over.
First impressions are good, with a strong signal now in the main bedroom. Setting up the extender was simplicity itself. We'll see how it works over the next few weeks.
See http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B009C9FQNQ/ref=oh_details_o00_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 .
Sunday 30 March 2014
PCs
My XP machine was mainly used for digital modes and normally did not move. It was powered nearly always from the mains PSU. After April 8th Windows XP is no longer a supported OS by Microsoft, which is a pity as I liked XP.
Saturday 29 March 2014
Grass cutting
Well, my balance, walking and general stamina must be improving as today I cut about 40% of the rear lawn. Lis did the rest, but I was not totally exhausted, as I was last time. I could probably have done the whole lawn with a few breaks.
Today I still feel a bit sick inside and giddy but definitely somewhat better. Also, I have taken NO pills today so far.
Today I still feel a bit sick inside and giddy but definitely somewhat better. Also, I have taken NO pills today so far.
Friday 28 March 2014
Anglesey Abbey
Another visit today to Anglesey Abbey near Cambridge (our 8th this year!) to enjoy the mild weather and the lovely walks. Today was quite quiet and all the lawn walks are now open. Plenty to see including lots of woolen bikes (yarn bombing) to promote the Tour de France which comes through Cambridge this summer. Snowdrops are dying fast but there are plenty of other flowers to see now and most trees are starting to bud.
Lis next to the bike wheels |
Masses of daffodils |
Penny Farthing |
Small violet-like flowers - not bluebells I think |
Missing airliner MH370
http://regmedia.co.uk/2014/03/18/boeing_777_9m-mro_mh370.jpg |
Although I am in no position to judge, there is something odd about the Malaysian Airline's briefings: something does not ring true in their accounts. May be it is just scant data, or are they hiding something?
Gay Marriages
From tonight, same sex couples can be married in England for the first time. I think the laws in other parts of the UK may be different. 50-60 years ago, this would be unheard of and my parents will be turning in their graves.
In many Africa nations, attitudes are not unlike those here back in the 1950s and 1960s.
Personally I think gay people have every right to marry if they so choose. Many will disagree and think this makes a nonesense of hetrosexual marriage.
See: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-26773016
Last year my (female) wife and I were invited to a civil partnership ceremony but we were unable to attend.
In many Africa nations, attitudes are not unlike those here back in the 1950s and 1960s.
Personally I think gay people have every right to marry if they so choose. Many will disagree and think this makes a nonesense of hetrosexual marriage.
See: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-26773016
Last year my (female) wife and I were invited to a civil partnership ceremony but we were unable to attend.
Thursday 27 March 2014
Walking and balance
Today I managed to walk (with Lis) to the Cambridge Building Society, the Bank, Budgen's store, the Post Office and a friend's house - Jenny Mansell's - which for me, in my current state, is a long way. For me, it is not the walking as such that tires me, rather it is because I get giddy (poor balance following my stroke) and THIS tires me. Quite often I feel like I've drunk 8 pints of beer, when I haven't had ANY alcohol now for over 6 months. I am told that the brain finds new pathways and ways of managing, but it will take time.
I have the feeling that after the weekly physio sessions in Ely yesterday the giddiness was slightly better, so the more exercise I do the better? Today I have reduced my liquid (peg) feed down from 900ml a day to 800ml which will reduce the time on the pump to under 7 hours.
I have the feeling that after the weekly physio sessions in Ely yesterday the giddiness was slightly better, so the more exercise I do the better? Today I have reduced my liquid (peg) feed down from 900ml a day to 800ml which will reduce the time on the pump to under 7 hours.
Wednesday 26 March 2014
Grandchildren
Tim with Amandine and Lucien playing " Hide and Seek" |
Tuesday 25 March 2014
Swifts, swallows and martins
Swallow (sometimes called Barn Swallow) |
Swifts are rarely here before the end of the month of April. Once here, swifts seem to be everywhere! I love to hear their screams on the wing. To me, the swift is a real summer bird and a sign that "all is well with the world" when they arrive.
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swift
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barn_Swallow
Numbers of house martins have been down in recent years.
Ickworth House and Grounds - National Trust
See: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/ickworth/ .
Ickworth House and its extensive grounds are located not far from Bury-St-Edmunds in Suffolk. The grounds make a fine place for walks that vary in length from less than a mile to over 7 miles in length. At this time of year there should be plenty of daffodils and young lambs. My wife and I hope to go there this afternoon and walk to the newly restored little church on the estate about 500m from the main house. Although wobbly, I should be able to manage this. The image (LHS) is located at http://www.britainexpress.com/counties/suffolk/Ickworth_House.htm .
Part of the main building is nowadays a 4 star hotel called The Ickworth Hotel.
UPDATE 1645z: Plenty of lambs at Ickworth but the daffodils are 1-2 weeks behind those at nearby Anglesey Abbey 25 miles west.
Lambs outside the little church at Ickworth |
Part of the extensive grounds |
Very young Ickworth lamb enjoying the sunshine |
UPDATE 1645z: Plenty of lambs at Ickworth but the daffodils are 1-2 weeks behind those at nearby Anglesey Abbey 25 miles west.
Monday 24 March 2014
Visit to Kings College Chapel
Kings College Chapel |
Kings is a truly inspiring building on the edge of the River Cam finished in the reign of Henry VIII. There is a great sense of peace inside. The fan vaulted ceilings have to be seen to be believed. It is of course from here that the world famous "Nine Lessons and Carols" are broadcast each Christmastide. People queue for seats at this in the rain, and sometimes snow, for up to 30 hours! I have attended sung Evensong there in the past without queuing.
My wife wandered down to the river to get a few more photos whilst I stayed in Kings. At this time of the year there are fewer visitors than in high summer. Cambridge also attracts English language students especially in summer.
Punts near Kings |
Cambridge feels more rural than Oxford in my opinion. The town still feels "old fashioned" academic even though many of the new high-tech companies are on the edge of the newer city. Many of these spun off from university research. Heffers (Trinity St) has a wide selection of academic books down in its large basement sections.
.
Sunday 23 March 2014
Normality
Brahms' German Requiem - CCS - March 22nd 2014, West Rd Concert Hall, Cambridge |
Our good old friends Peter and Chris Branson, came to stay over the weekend and it was them who gave me the lift to the concert. Peter kindly cut our hedges and front lawn and did a pile of weeding (without being asked) - such GOOD kind and generous friends.
See https://sites.google.com/site/cambschoral/ for details of the Cambridgeshire Choral Society (CCS) including how to join and details of other concerts you might enjoy.
BTW, my wife is the 7th in on the LHS. She is the short lady with short greyish hair (now I am in trouble!) in the 2nd row back.
Saturday 22 March 2014
Brahms - German Requiem
See - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_German_Requiem_%28Brahms%29
This evening at 7.30pm, my wife sings in the Brahms German Requiem at the West Road Concert Hall in Cambridge. She sings with the Cambridgeshire Choral Society. This is a splendid work and well worth hearing. Tickets are available on the door.
Se also https://sites.google.com/site/cambschoral/
Most of the Requiem was written around 1868. It is so sad that some 50 years later Germany, the UK and many other countries were busy killing each other in millions in WW1. I am still convinced we all drifted into WW1 not realising what it was going to be like.
This Brahms choral work towers above the madness of WW1, 50 years away still when written. To this day I think of Germany as a cultured and great nation. WW1 and WW2 were aberrations that sadly can affect any nation depending on who is in power. That is the tragedy of all wars.
The music of Brahms, Wagner and many others reminds us that music has the power to transcend human frailty and tower over us putting wars into true perspective: after the fighting should come true peace and reconciliation.
This evening at 7.30pm, my wife sings in the Brahms German Requiem at the West Road Concert Hall in Cambridge. She sings with the Cambridgeshire Choral Society. This is a splendid work and well worth hearing. Tickets are available on the door.
Se also https://sites.google.com/site/cambschoral/
Most of the Requiem was written around 1868. It is so sad that some 50 years later Germany, the UK and many other countries were busy killing each other in millions in WW1. I am still convinced we all drifted into WW1 not realising what it was going to be like.
This Brahms choral work towers above the madness of WW1, 50 years away still when written. To this day I think of Germany as a cultured and great nation. WW1 and WW2 were aberrations that sadly can affect any nation depending on who is in power. That is the tragedy of all wars.
The music of Brahms, Wagner and many others reminds us that music has the power to transcend human frailty and tower over us putting wars into true perspective: after the fighting should come true peace and reconciliation.
Friday 21 March 2014
Gardening at new house
Lucien clearing autumn leaves |
The long bed in the back garden |
Feeling better
My stroke recovery continues. After an "up and down" week things are looking up: food is going down fine as are drinks and people tell me my voice is sounding stronger. All positive signs.
I still feel very wobbly when walking or exercising and this currently is my biggest issue. People tell me my recovery could take a long while yet so I have to remain very patient. Also, people say I must expect bad days as well as good. Fatigue after doing almost anything is an issue.
After a poor start this week, when I felt I was slipping backwards, I feel full recovery should be possible given time.
See http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stroke/Pages/treatment.aspx .
I still feel very wobbly when walking or exercising and this currently is my biggest issue. People tell me my recovery could take a long while yet so I have to remain very patient. Also, people say I must expect bad days as well as good. Fatigue after doing almost anything is an issue.
After a poor start this week, when I felt I was slipping backwards, I feel full recovery should be possible given time.
See http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/stroke/Pages/treatment.aspx .
Burwell Windmill
See http://www.burwellmuseum.org.uk.btck.co.uk/StevensMill for more details of the mill and museum which has some amazing exhibits.
Wednesday 19 March 2014
Budget - Spring 2014
Although I have not had chance to study it in detail, the 3 year 4% pensioners bond for up to £10000 each looks good. It means my wife and I can get 4% return with low risk on £20000 of joint savings. This is above inflation and a much better rate than competitors. It runs from 2015. Also promising is the new NISA allowing up to £30000 (joint income) to be sheltered from tax each year starting in July 2014.
Ely
Every week for the next 8 weeks I am attending physio (for my stroke) at the Prince of Wales hospital in the city of Ely. This was once an RAF hospital.
Ely is a delightful place with a cathedral 1300 years old (LHS). My wife walks into town during my sessions. As a local parishoner she gets free entry too. Down by the river Ouse is lovely too and the market , although small, is delightful.
Years ago, during WW2, my dad (see RHS) had his appendix removed in the old Bishop's Palace in Ely (RHS). He flew Lancaster bombers (see below) in the Pathfinders and was very lucky to survive the war. He crash landed once on the way home. He rarely spoke of his WW2 experiences: I think he did not really like the idea of helping to kill innocent civilians. He was much happier living his simple rural life in Devon after the war years . Wars are so bad for everyone on all sides. It humbles me to realise how young he was in those days: 20-26yrs old only. In the last months of the war he had a young child too. I never realised how brave he was until it was too late to tell him.
The Bishop's Palace,which dates back to the 15th century, was a Sue Ryder home, but since 2012 has been the home for the Kings School's 6th form.
http://www.newsbiscuit.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/lancaster-bomber1-300x200.jpg |
Tuesday 18 March 2014
Fake coins
Apparently 3% of pound coins in circulation are fakes i.e. forgeries. Next year (2017) a new 12-sided 1 pound coin is to be introduced to all but eliminate fakes. Not sure if the 2 pound coin is being replaced too?
See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-2663286 .
See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-2663286 .
http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/73667000/jpg/_73667988_73667987.jpg |
Junk mail
Don't know about you, but I am fed up with junk mail that typically is around 50-80% of the post we get nowadays. I know this is how the Royal Mail bolsters its profits, but what a waste!
In our case it goes straight into the recycling bin and does not even get opened often. If the post was properly nationalised they would not need to deliver this crap. It saddens me to think jobs depend on the delivery of such rubbish. Better these people were employed in something productive actually adding real value to things. This is the sort of work that really adds no value to the lives of decent people. Such worthless work cannot continue for too long into the future. In time all work will add real value.
Although signed up to the Telephone Preference Service it does not seem to stop calls starting in the UK but coming in via foreign numbers. Overall I still think it is a "good idea".
In our case it goes straight into the recycling bin and does not even get opened often. If the post was properly nationalised they would not need to deliver this crap. It saddens me to think jobs depend on the delivery of such rubbish. Better these people were employed in something productive actually adding real value to things. This is the sort of work that really adds no value to the lives of decent people. Such worthless work cannot continue for too long into the future. In time all work will add real value.
Although signed up to the Telephone Preference Service it does not seem to stop calls starting in the UK but coming in via foreign numbers. Overall I still think it is a "good idea".
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