SO THE POSTS HAVE REACHED OVER A THOUSAND !
Came home last night, another lovely night, another awesome walk back through the park.
Now what do you do when your phone rings and you're having quality time on your own ? Because we all know that if you answer it, although you may be in the park, once the phone is stuck to your ear and there's someome else barking down the other end of it, you may as well be on a bus, or watching television. The moment has, for the time you are on the phone, gone.
I always go with my gut. Last night the phone rang and it was a friend of mine who's going through a tough time at the moment. I gave up the park, even though there was plenty of it left and clicked the green button.
My friend has just had his heart broken. I don't know what to say to him. Of course I know the most important thing to do is to listen, to let him "get it all off his chest." But as he did so, he didn't seem to be getting any lighter, he just seemed to be giving the whole sorry affair more energy by breathing life into it again.
There's a fine line between talking things through and just dwelling on them. It's the same as having a couple of refreshing, happy drinks in a pub and then having one too many and not knowing when to go home, so you just carry on drinking but you don't know why, before too long you don't care why and soon after that you are drunk and a mess and all you can do is get more drunk.
Life can get you drunk like this, in work, in relationships, getting too little sleep, sexually, as far as food goes. This is why you have to have a perspective. You have to have something that's always the same, to get you back to the top of the hill, so you can see clearly all around you and decide what direction to go in.
The great and the good meditate of course. A fine thing to do. A lot of people however can't meditate, they don't have the inclination or the ability, maybe they don't know enough about it, or it simply doesn't work for them.
But there are other ways of achieving similar results.
I've always had a sauna, even when I was a newsagent, I used to take a sauna at the local swimming baths, I think it was 50p at the time.
The thing about saunas is, that no matter where you are in the world, from the inside, they all look the same. They are all made of pine, they all smell the same, they all have sand timers, water buckets, wooden ladels, hot nails sticking out to burn your bum on ! So, whenever I'm in a sauna, I'm just in a sauna, not in London, or The States, or ina posh hotel, or about to have "the most important meeting of my life", I'm back to where I've always been. I am on the top of my hill.
For many people having a bath has the same effect. A lot of guys I know, play football once a week, this is their hill. That's why men keep on playing football until way after it's advisable fo them to do so.
We all need a space to be us, to give us our point of view, to give us back the eyes we've always had. These then give us the sense and strength to see everything for what it really is and from our point of view.
I saw a lady yesterday on a park bench reading. She looked so peaceful and happy. She was on her hill.
If you don't have these moments in your life any more, simply think of something you used to do when you were a kid, when you were on your own and go and do it again. This will help you smell who you were and who you still are. You may have been bored out of your mind at the time but that's not the point. One of the reasons kids get bored is because they are waiting for the rest of their lives to happen. One of the reasons adults go crazy is because they've allowed the rest of their lives to take over.
"Work-a-holics" don't work hard, hard work is knowing when to stop and summoning up the energy to do something about it. Anyone can "work" all the time. " Working" is easy compared to living.
"But you don't understand I'm so busy at work !"
The biggest cop out of them all !
So few people have a proper lunch hour these days, people eat the majority of ALL THE FOOD THEY HAVE IN THEIR LIVES... AT THEIR DESK. None of this is good.
The lady reading on the bench, the guy who plays football every week, someone having a bath right now, they all have one thing in common. All the things they're doing take time, there's is always a quicker alternative but they have chosen not to take it and this takes effort and energy, real hard work.
You have to work to relax. But like everything the more you do it, the easier it becomes, that's why people think it's easier than it is !
And it is worth it.
And it will help you be you.
And if you're you and no one else, no one can ever take you away.
It exhausts me when people choose not to be happy. Don't get me wrong happiness doesn't happen overnight but nor does a great sculpture, you have to chip away, not keep staring at the block of stone hoping one day it will just become a masterpice all by itself. Similarly, you can't take a huge hack at it, otherwise it would just end up smashed to pieces or looking a complete mess.
Imagine, if you chipped away at your own life and one day you woke up to find it was a masterpiece, now wouldn't that be nice.
By the time I'd finished talking to my friend, or rather he'd finshed talking to me, the park was long gone but I did happen to find myself right outside a lovely fish restaurant. It's a restaurant that has a small shop on the front of it that also sells "day fresh" fish. The shop's open as long as the restaurant is. I talked to the young lad behind the counter who told me he wanted to be a chef and that he was really enjoying learning about fish. I was really pleased for him. He advised me on a nice salmon fillet, I asked him would it be alright to pan fry it, he said that would be perfect but told me not to forget to do it skin side down first, "why's that?", I enquired,
"Because, " he said, "your pan is really hot at that first moment you drop your fish in, so it will brown the skin for you, any time after that your pan is effectively steaming the fish, not frying it, if you were to place the fillet in the pan 'fish side down,' it would burn the fish and then you'd never be able to brown the skin side when you turned it over!"
I think he's going to be a great chef.
I just hope he remebers to find the time to have a bath, or a sauna, or a game of footbal, or to sit on a park bench and read a book, or even meditate, whilst he's at it.
Thirsty Thursday, perfect. x.
P.S. My doggie's fine and with his auntie in the country. He wasn't a fan of London.
Comments
good lad, best one yet
Morning Christoff and fellow bloggers
Well the airbeds stayed up and the kids had a great night another good post chris ,great radio show,even better blogs and a sauna man can it get any better
Have a great day to all of you
Greg H
Just got into work ( no im not a workaholic !) really inspiring and so true - its so important to have me time, time alone, time to relax , fun time - I like to play the piano, im not briliant but when i play nothing else is important, and i am at my most relaxed.
ps i am going to grow potatoes for christmas - you have inspired me to do somehting ive not done before !
cheers,
ally x
Profound.
Lovely
Dogwithnobrain
Top o'the mornin' to ya Chris,
inspired thoughts this morning. It reminded me of a conversation I had with my father-in-law a few weeks ago. You must "down sticks" at some point and do something for you or your loved ones.
It is possibe as a teacher to work continually, I am usually in work by 7:30 and have managed to still be there at 6:00pm. I have then taken planning and marking home and still been working at 11:00pm. This is no life and is not actually benefitting anybody.
I now make sure that I leave work at work so I may still be there at 6:00pm but I walk home with nothing to do. I may do a little bit of work at the weekend but try to ensure I do that on a saturday so Sunday is free to enjoy with my wife Jennifer (of the twice baked potato).
And that is just it, SHE IS MY HILL! Spending time with her grounds me, she is so wise, she is a fab listener. One thing she has taught me is not just to appreciate food for its flavours etc but to enjoy the ritual of eating it. We always eat dinner together either at the dinner table or on the carpet if we have pizza or something. My point is this is often our time to chat, discuss our day, share our feelings and thoughts, it really helps me an awful lot after a day with many noisy, obnoxious, interesting and bright young minds in front me.
Oooh, A-Level results today, as Head of Media Studies I am feeling a bit nervous for my kids right now and for myself.
Well, must go. My wife was elated that you mentioned "twice baked potatos" on the show. I will try to get another recipe from her later and post it for all to enjoy.
Have a fab day, looking forward to the show later,
James.
First time I have read the blog. Very good, have you thought about taking over the "Pause for Thought" on Mr Wogan's show?
Someone said that you should get the "food man" a monthly slot. Make it weekly, he is ace.
Cheers now.
Now that was a profound blog Christoper! How inspiring! And it reminded me to get my salmon from the freezer - I only hope it's defrosted by tonight!!
I have different 'hills' depending on where I am in the country - well really depending on whether I'm in Wales or England. You see when I was small I had the most wonderful childhood and the greatest Grandpa any child could ever wish for! Sadly he passed away 15 yrs ago, but when he was around and when I and my siblings were small we lived in South Wales for a few years - as did my nan and gramps, nan still does. So anyway they lived (nan still does) at the foot of a mountain -well part way up really. Any how we called the mountain Fairy Glenn, for reasons only obvious to small children!! We always used to climb the mountain with Gramps, and sometimes nan would come along too unless she was cooking welsh cakes, or roasting a good joint of beef. Anyhow, when we reached the top we would do one of 2 things, depending on the day and what supplies we had taken with us. We would either slide right back down on tea trays or bits of lino that we had taken with us, or we would just sit amongst the heather and gaze down at the valley below - you could see the whole of Cwmparc one way and the whole of Treorchy the other. And so now, when I am in Wales visiting my nan I still walk up that mountain - not as swiftly as I used to ofcourse! And I don't slide down it anymore - though perhaps one day I should! But I just sit and watch the world go by and there is nothing more relaxing than taking the time to just sit.
When I am at home and not in Wales I am fortunate enough to have a great bay window that looks directly on to the River Lea and I like to sit in my window and watch the world go by, people jogging, walking their dogs, young families ambling along, boats with their little life jacket clad dogs - always get a wave!!
So I guess what I'm saying is you're completely right, life can go by in such a hurry if you let it and it is important to take time out for yourself, least you forget who you are!
Oh and I'm going to attempt making jam today - something else from my childhood! Not that I remember how to do it - a job for an internet search engine I think!!
Can't wait for the show!!
Ladyfozz.xx
Top comment, could almost use it in a sermon. So true though, everyone needs to take time out to chill every day it will keep you sane, i try and grow veggies, and train my little house bunny!!! now that is chilling!
Top comment, could almost use it in a sermon. So true though, everyone needs to take time out to chill every day it will keep you sane, i try and grow veggies, and train my little house bunny!!! now that is chilling!
Chris
All very true.
We've all had our ups and downs and its vital that we remember the ups when we are down. Talking about things helps, though why is it sometimes easire to talk about very personal things with an aquaintance rather than a really close mate?
Music really helps me when I'm low. Maybe a blast back to the good old days of the 80's ...some ABC, Duran etc ...or maybe something uplifting from the present. Embrace are my current favs. Anyone not feeling at their best should listen to "Ashes".
Chris, perhaps you should play it for your mate.
Cheers
Andy
Hi Chris, I have just started listening to your show on my drive home and i think its fab, i have become addicted to the record you play all the time, the sanford townsend band, and can't stop singing it. Have looked on e bay and can get the cd from the states for about 12 dollars, not bad huh!!. I read my first chris evans blog last night with my daughter we both think its great, so now when i get to work the first thing to do will be to read your daily musings, this mornings really gave me pause for thought.
i shall be growing spuds for christmas my husband thinks i am barmy but i will have the last laugh when i am digging up spuds on christmas morning!!!!! keep up the good work
jan @ work in Poole
ive just realised something. i don't have a hill. i'm going to look for one today! thanks chris! x fantastic blog.
#10 you are so right - music is a great way to relax. I myself have 2 possibly obscure favourites - Mike Olfield Songs from a Distant Earth, and Clannad Music from Robin of Sherwood. Though I think the Clannad one puts me in a warm and cosy place because of my love of the series in the 80's, and my fascination with the legend himself born from living in Melton Mowbray whilst at Primary School and visiting Sherwood forest and Nottingham castle at regular intervals during the years!! I was captured so much by the legend I did an A Level history project on him!!!!
xxLadyfozz
Yes, time to oneself is very important. Time to stop, to think, to just "be". Time to reflect, or to just think nothing at all.
Good luck to all A level students today - remember, whatever the outcome, you have tried your best.
ttfn Val B.
Hi Chris,
You're so right about work, but I've discovered it is very difficult not to get caught up in it. It took me two years in my current job to realise some work just has to wait until tomorrow, or the next day, or even next week. I am much more relaxed now and have a better work and private life for it! Almost everybody I know or have talked to had or have similar problems and a lot of new ones in the company are suffering because they feel they have to do everything RIGHT NOW! Needless to say, some have been off sick for a long time, or are heading for a nervous breakdown soon.
As for your friend - I think most people need a certain amount of time to mope and wallow in self pity before they get back to their lives. And a broke heart, that is a biggie! Probably needs a bit more than a bath or a sauna to get out of that hole. Sometimes that hill is very, very far away.
love from Germany
I agree everyone should have a 'hill' which is some 'me' time but I think you can also do it with great friends. My 'hill' is getting some good friends round for a game of Scrabble - good food, good wine, good company, good music, ridiculously chilled, talk, don't talk, learn some new words. I try to reach my 'hill' about once a fortnight, it's like a little treat where we all take time out of our busy schedules to just sit and quietly enjoy each others company.
(ps - I dug my potatoes up at the weekend - Shetland Blacks...lovely purple/ blue potatoes, make for great mash)
I cooked fish for the first time a couple of days ago. I bought some nice haddock and put it in the pan. I think my frying pan was too hot, or else I just did it wrong, because the fish got all stuck to the bottom and fell apart.
When I served it up it was a complete mess and didn't look very good, but it tasted delicious and that's the most important thing!
Morning Chris,
Mmmmmwah! ( I'm just gonna rub noses too .... cos... well.... .. that's just me...)- Too late: done it now....
What a great blog this morning!! Relaxation is so important ....... before I go on to my tree.....I'd like to clear up what I meant by "running away" yesterday ..... I didn't just "runaway" it was all organised properly, I was very safe and nobody was worried about where I was..... .... ...
I've tried many ways to relax and find my own space: that place you go to have word with yourself... Yoga, which is ok- ish ( don't try it at work though- more later) , a bath is a good place too but for me, sitting under the tree in my garden takes some beating, sometimes when I really want to get away from it, I climb the tree and sit high up in its branches. I feel invincible when I'm up there, at one with nature, there's nothing I can't find the answer to. Ok I cannot work out the thermo-dynamic range of Marmalade, while I'm up there but I'd probably conclude that as long as I could get the lid off the jar, then why worry about the technical stuff. Often: birds will perch just inches away and sit there for as long I can remain still. It's so fantastic to share the same space with them. What, I wonder, do they make of me; like an intruder in their home but they never complain. I fear the day, whether it be age, illness or incapacity that I'm no longer able to climb my tree: as long as I'm breathing though I shall be able to sit under it..............
Yoga at work..... It was quite a while back now, just after I was introduced to Yoga ( I used to get stressed at work- really quite badly) anyway I had the idea that I could "relax" at work... a spot of Yoga at lunch-time, how could it be a bad thing? So I took my mat, blanket and a couple of blocks into work, bundled together with my belt.......... at lunch-time ... the Boardroom was free... in I went ... lights out.. blinds shut .. rolled my mat out on the table... shoes off and a started my usual warm-up.....things were going well.........went through several of the floor poses .. then into the relaxation phase..... ....... what seemed like a few minutes into that......... lights on and voices.... ........ there's me on the boardroom table with my skirt up to my waist ......and a bean bag over my eyes........... The MD, bless him was very diplomatic.... and said to his guests ... he'd come to the wrong room............. I've not tried Yoga at work since...............
Friends....... very often when friends phone to talk something over or to ask for advice, what they are really looking for is your approval for the decisions they've already made.... they can become quite vexed if you come up with an alternative way forward..............
The Veg Man ...last night ... he is addictive ... if we asked him nicely he maybe would write Chapter on Veg, for the Get You ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Cookbook.
Last day of my training course today... woohoo!
Keep smiling
Rachel
x
#15 - yep broken heart is a biggie and he probably does need more than a sauna and a bit more time. Maybe we should all send him some cyber - love'n'hugs to help him back to his hill!
'L&H' to Chris' mate!!xxx
Ladyfozz.
Well blow me!
Having listened to the shlog for weeks, I thought I had better keep to my part of the deal and visit the much publicised and talked about blog site.
The first thing I ever read - Chris's morning post on "finding your hill".
Quite simply uplifting and perfect timing!
I've never been this motivated to buy some prunes and continue with my masterpiece.
H
Morning all
Well I posted earlier this week saying I was fed up, away from home etc. Well forget that now. Chris has inspired me so much this week I'm no longer "being lonely" but making the most of "being alone". I've been reading loads, listening to the radio (I mean really listening, not just having it on in the background), and enjoying being me.
Last night Chris mentioned my RAK leaving the unused shopping vouchers in the supermarket and then name checked me. I don't really know why but I just thought that was cool, it made me feel good inside.
Thanks Chris for the inspiration, you have awoken my imagination.
Morning Christophe and fellow bloggers,
Oh what a beautiful morning... That's me on my hill. It may be grey and overcast outside but on the inside, the sun is shining brilliantly in a beautiful blue sky, the birds are singing and I'm doing my best to sing loudly with them. I realise that I have loads of hills; lucky me.
Never heard it described as a hill before - NLP teaches you it as 'getting into a great state' which you then 'anchor', which means that you can get into that great state (or onto that hill) in an instant regardless of where you are or what you are doing. It really works.
Yet another fab shlog Chris, take care all,
x
Good Morning Christpohe....
Wonderful, profound and the best one yet
Luv
Mayhem
xx
Morning Christophe.....
Wonderful, profound and so much the best one yet!!
Lots of Luv
Mayhem
xx
Morning Chris,
Just wanted to thank you.
Have been through a tough couple of years trying to be a mum and resume my career.
Im just starting to feel like me again and reading your blog this morning was inspirational - im off to find my hill !!!
Thanks for the shlog - it's a perfect time between work and home where for an hour i can just listen and think.
Big Hugs
Louise
xxx
Where's the 'L&H' for Chris' mate - come on fellow bloggers attatch love n hugs for Chris' mate at the end of your posts - help him back to his hill!!
L&H!!!!
I'm off to buy stuff to make jam now and when I get back I hope there'l be lots of L&H's on comments for Chris' mate!! Share the love guys!!
Ladyfozzxx
Morning Christoph and Shloggers!
First of all, everyone should try to think happy thoughts for Chris's mate and perhaps the swell of goodness somehow reaches him through the ether.
Relaxation. Me, I just drive. Even when traffic conditions are less than perfect I can just let it happen and, for once, take the opportunity to look at the world around me without having to worry what the vehicle in front of me is doing and just listen to the radio.
The best way is to just go in a random direction and see where you finish up. One Friday afternoon I had to drive to Newton Aycliffe, Durham and since I had nothing better to do for the weekend I thought I'd continue northwards.
Via the Cheviots, the Borders, Edinburgh and the Forth Bridge I washed up at Kinross, Perthshire for that night. Found a decent B&B and had a good chicken jalfrezi. Saturday, onwards and up the A9 to Inverness, the firths Moray and Cromarty, Wick (Wick!), John O'Groats and Dunnet Head - the top end. Fantastic! Looking out over the Scapa Flow to the Orkneys nearly pulled me further Northwards but I resisted (the ferry was a little too expensive).
Another time I finished up in Prague, just by driving that time, luckily, I had to get back home for a pre arranged family function otherwise who knows where I might have finished up!
Toodles,
:o)
Recently i thought i was losing my hill to another walker. But with much effort and lots of gushing water i have managed to find and connect with my hill again. Ones hill can come in many guises but the hardest thing to do is indentify it and keep it and more importantly keep returning to it. If you do not give your hill the time and investment it deserves it can not reward you with the peace and security you seek.
Hello all,
I been hearing about this blog all week on my way home from work so I thought i'd check it out and i have to say was nicely surprised by the philosophical content of today's blog. Its made me feel better, even though i've only been in work for 40 minutes and have another 7 hours and 20 minutes to go!!!!!
Anyway, i shall go and explore this blog and perhaps tune into the slog later on!! :-D
Diva xxxxx
Morning all
Just a very quick plea.... Whether you put them as a comment on here, or on the forum that Mark has set up, please can people remember to put quantities on their recipes?
I find it useful to think that I am writing instructions for a 12 year old to follow.
Thank you and take care.
How amazing your mind works so well at that time in the morning. I love love love reading the blogs. About to embark on an exciting new adventure with a new business, so need to find that hill before I start!
Give us more
Daxi
xx
Hi Christoph
this is my first visit to your blog what a great idea. I dont have a hill myself need to get one. We have all been broken hearted at some point in our lives and we all get over it your mate will be the same he will get over it in time. great for him he has such a good mate in you. I lead a very isolated sort of life so this blog is great company. Thanks very much love reading all the posts
hugs and kisses for you all out there and you Chris.
morning peeps,
I have quite a few hills and have done for some time, I realized about 13-14 years ago when my dad was very ill that life was to short not to have them.
I lead a busy life as do many of us, and its very easy to loose sight of the things which should matter to us.
I read in a steaming hot bath full of bubbles nearly every night. I cook for myself and my husband also most nights, I spend most friday nights with my friends drinking cider and playing on the quiz machine, I hug and kiss my husband every morning when I wake up and every night before I go to sleep. It's a fantastic way to start and finnish the day, we've been together 10 years now and have always done this.
Just recently things have become a little more presurised at work and I could feel the control going down the plug hole...... I've taken control again and spend half of my lunch hour swimming mon wed + fridays. It's the best £3.00 I've ever spent. No matter how tired or stressed I am I truly do come back refreshed and in a positive frame of mind.
I'm also VERY VERY lucky I have the most fantastic set of friends some of which are nearly 200 miles away. I'm in contact with them one way or another every single day. A couple of them are going through a really tough time at the moment, and because I love them dearly I've just text them and told them to log on and check out the blog I know it will make them feel better.
Thanks Chris!
You got me thinking now, what are my 'hills'??..
Well, reading has to be one of them, as does sewing my huge and fabulous red and gold quilt.
But the biggie and most unreliable hill (cos sometimes it is badly behaved!) has to be playing a gig. Jumping around a stage, with a mic stuck in my face and seeing a crowd jumping up and down and dancing and loving your music is a BIG BIG hill...
...but...
...is also badly behaved when no-one turns up to your gig, or the equipment breaks or the venue is pants or, when you're just crabby and grumpy and troll-like and start behaving like a 3 year old who's lost their teddy!!!! ;-D
Diva xxxxxxx
Very good post made me think, I have been going nuts lately and never realised i was just missing my hills. Need to get back to them. Can lay in a bath for hours, and personally I prefer the steam room to the sauna. Each to there own.
You know what, you used to be one of my hills. I went off you when you did TFI an got too self indulgent with a crowd of sycophants. But i think the old chris is back, or have you grown up? Been a fan of you for years, used to love when you did the breakfast show, listened to it on the way to work every morning on the train and was one of my favourite hills. I watched you years ago when you started out on BSKYB... Bet no-one else can but I can remember shy panda and a mystic guy with a brick (or did i dream that?) and "best not lets stay in" Bang. Did it ever hurt banging your head on that window? Like the travel show on my way home, your growing on me again especially after that last blog.
Don't change again, your fine the way you are now.
PS okay TFI had its moments, i still have a vid clip of kylie and geri snogging somewhere. thats a keeper.
wonderful post. and a great blog.
much love,
leen xxxx
Good Morning Sage,
Your blog just gets better and better! You take me to a different happy space every day.......Thanks for that. x
I can't imagine being without my tree......a huge lolloping evergreen that I discovered when I was 11 in a park very near to my school. The high canopy of branches sweep right to the ground making a circular room of at least 20 feet diameter. You can hide from the world inside there but still observe it through the gaps in the greenery. It's such a private space in such a public place.
Being an evergreen it is good for all seasons and I've been there in all weathers. I've even taken nap there on many a Sunday afternoon. I love to lie back and look up through the boughs and imagine it could be anytime back in history or into the future. The view I get from lying under a tree and looking straight up is the very same as anybody would get at any time and only an aeroplane can spoil this. With this view I can drift into my dream world with Robin Hood or King Arthur or Jean Luc Picard or whoever takes my fancy. It's a bit like Mr Benn's dressing room......
I have some very happy memories stored under the canopy of that tree. Swapping shoes with schoolmates, copying homework or working out dance routines on the way to school, smoking my first cigarette, my first joint, first snog, squirting water from water pistols at boys passing by who couldn't see us and giggling uncontrollably........I even found a fiver under there once and bought Slade's 'Slayed' album on my way home from school. It's all still there for me under this tree and I see no reason why it won't still be there when I'm in my nineties.
Nowadays I never take a water pistol with me although a snog is never out of the question! I now go for the cosiness and the company of the tree that knows me and asks no questions of me.
I haven't been there for months now so I shall take the papers and some dark chocolate there on Sunday and see where I drift off to. I may even treat my new friend' to a trip there once he's helped me get the potato tyre stack sorted;)......
Keep up the good work Chris. You're spreading a very positive vibe.
With love from a very hapy bunny,
Debs x
PS If you can squeeze in Cum On Feel The Noize today or tomorrow I'd really appreciate it. Keep this girlie feeling alive in me! It's wonderful!
PPS Gald your doggie's happy. x
So how about sharing some thoughts/ideas as to how to find this elusive "hill". I can't get beyond the literal, and just have this mental image of everyone else being surrounded by sound of music scenery. Feels like I'm missing out on something......I have always been of the opinion that doing something for others is the answer. ....unless I've been missing the point? So some advice on how to experience "me" time without becoming melancholy and depressed would be appreciated!
Emma x
Read your blog after having my first (& only) cup of coffee and found myself really inspired by your comments. I'll spend the rest of the day taking on board your wise words.
Thanks Chris
x
Morning Chris,
Just to say what a brilliant blog, I need to find my hill !
Your mate is lucky to have such a good friend in
you.
Looking forward to tonights show
Loads of love
Kim x x
Morning all,
Great blog this morning Christoph!
Find or remembering your hill, I'm struggling to think what my hill would be, I feel I work alot but I enjot it sometimes, depending on the brief & deadline!
I now feel I need to find my hill just in case there isn't a good brief or the deadline is far too tight!
Thirsty Thursday doesn't sound great this morning as it was wicked Wedneday yesterday and after a particularly difficult meeting which I lost all power to my brain and ability to make a valid point in, we went to the pub and although we only stayed until about 9ish I feel disappointed that I let myself to drink so much during the week... I know this sounds stupid but I dont like to drink during the week as it like a treat on the weekend + the heath benfits!
I'm sat at work now with a pile of work that needs to be done, but I still cant think of where my hill is... How do you find it? Is it just a case of thinking of where you are most happiest?
Blog is actually a part of my day now, getting into work that little bit earlier to find out what riches you have given us...
Hope all have a good day!
FIND THE HILL AND CLIMB IT! (ropes are optional!)
Spot on Chris, I recently went through a very bad time in my life, but once a week played football, in that 90 mins, nothing else mattered and never thought of anything else. It works.
Spellbinding
Can be terrifying when you try to think back to when you last had proper 'hill time.'
Just no quality of life without it...everything blurs.
I for one have made some positively mountainous (pun intended!) resolutions this morning thanks to you.
Mind you don't set too high a standard with your blogs, Sir - you might start wearing out!!
My me-time is at 6.30 every morning - I go for a run in the countryside with my faithful hound Millie. Although usually very relaxing, today was quite an event. I was almost attacked and killed by mafia sheep. I no longer have to worry about falling (as I did on Saturday) or dying from lack of oxygen - now I have to worry about being beaten up by gangster sheep. I think the trick is to take them by surprise - the other day I ran up to them without them knowing it so their first instinct was to flee but today they heard me approach so had time to confer. I'm quite serious - they squared up to me. And these aren't cute little field sheep either - these are tough, hardy, streetwise moorland sheep - they don't take prisoners. While fluffy, field sheep jump and flee as soon as they see you, screaming "argh, don't hurt me human pleeeease", muscle-popping, moorland sheep stare you down and you know they're thinking "who are you? who sent you?" They had me in the stream so eager was I to show them I meant no harm but still they came towards me. Then one decided not to bother and turned - but not in the manner typical of sheep - when one bolts, they all do. No, these sheep *meandered* whilst staring at me out of the corner of their eyes (which I'm sure were demon red). Then the last sheep looked back at me as though to say - today, you got lucky - tomorrow, we might not be so friendly. What will tomorrow bring? I could take a stick with me for defense but what if they take it and use it against me?
Perhaps that lady sitting on the bench reading has it right.... But I won't be able to eat as many toffees if I choose that method of relaxation....
Love the show!
T
Morning all
It's the first time I've really looked at the blog and certainly the first time I've written. Very deep Chris but it certainly struck my chord. Sitting here in the office at 7.00 I suddenly found the emotion building, such that I had to wait until now to write. My hills were a long time ago with my old mum and dad sitting on the back step on a Saturday morning drinking Nescafe - the old powdered stuff. Shows you how long that was! Or maybe out on my bike at 6 on a rainy Monday morning delivering papers. Long time ago. The hills seem to have gradually faded with age and it made me think that its time to find them again.
Great show Chris
Dell
Morning bloggers, Chris, you are sooooo right. My sister always said we choose to be happy, I was 40 before I got it, so now I strive with a better attitude.
hope your mate's ok, whats the song out at the minute....people who love; their hearts get eaten...yuk but what a simile.
Poochies are not really good in big towns, sad, but a good call.
enjoy yr day. Linda.
Wow... Chris, you rock you wise old owl.
Amazing post this morning. I love the statue thing. Its is very true... chip... chip... chip...
My Masterpiece is coming along, I am very happy with my life right now. I have a wonderful man to share it with - and everything about our life together sits in balance. Sometimes I get scared because I dont want it to stop. I want to grow old together (fair amount of time, mother nature willing... we are early 30's) I want to be like my Gandma and Gramps. Still head over heels in love at age of 89 and 85. Still hold hands in bed apparantly...
Anyway - We're off to Arumdo festival this weekend in Powys... lots of hills there. My Hill will be by my side, making me laugh, holding my hand, cooking fabulous food in the campervan and jumping to The Nextmen and Mr Scruff.
Have a good weekend Chris and Fellow Bloggers!
Mwah xxxx
Ref post No 39.
It's real easy Emma, You sit for a little while and think of some thing which really chills you out and gives you a sense of wellbeing. Dont try to think to hard just let you mind ramble round on its own. At 1st you might get thoughts of work kids etc but eventually you'll get there...... or maybe you won't, but after sitting there for a wee while not thinking of the "important" stuff you should be a little more relaxed.
However if you do think of something, pick a day and go off and do it, and dont make any shocking excuses like you need to take your pet crocodile for a walk, and don't let anyone talk you out of it!
Good luck
Every evening I resolve to look at your blog but this morning was the first time I got round to it. Glad I did - very inspirational. Its so easy in our busy lives to just race around trying to fit everything in. I'm very good at 'hill time' in the school hols - I work in a school. But term time everything dissolves into 'organised' chaos. Next term it'll be different - even if its only a ten minute walk at lunchtime - I intend to find 'my hill'.
Love the show Chris>
My top of the hill is the swimming pool. I make a point of going at least a couple of times a week in my lunch break and just bomb up and down for 20 minutes to half an hour. Not long, but enough for my head to stop buzzing and the physical activity to take over.
My better three quarters says I am much happier because of it, and slightly more snake-hipped to boot! Now that can't be bad, can it?
Just read the blog for the first time. Listen to show every day here in the Dordogne. Very lucky because we live in the Forete de la Double so it is very easy for me to sit still for a while and feel blessed. Green is the colour of peace for me and I am surrounded by trees. Top of my own hill and grateful for it.
Thanks for the salmon tip, I am just trying to start eating more fish and one of the things I have managed is pan fried salmon but I will bear the tip in mind. Say thank you to the fish shop Chef in waiting.
Diane x
I seem to have a oot of hill time at the moment and not a lot else. with that i am also very content but need to do more it is not that i do nothing i am very busy normally. So i have written this as something new that i have never done before that is as imporant as finding your hill. Very inspirational blogs and a great show
Blimey Chris what a fantastic blog this morning, I got up feeling fed up I was made redundant in June from a job which took me all over the country I never had a moment to myself but loved it yet (never thought I would say this) I have really enjoyed being at home for past 6 weeks Ive spent time in the garden Im growing things and in "my place" with no rush panic or thinking "Got to get going" I was starting to get fed up and thinking where am I going whats going to happen to me etc hence I got up this morning feeling down. I read your post and it truly lifted my spirits and reminded me to go get the bin and soil for the christmas spuds! :-)
I feel sometimes divine intervention causes things to make us slow down and take stock of life and forces us upon a different path which is better for us. No Im not a crackpot its what I beleive lol
Love and big cyber hugs to your poor mate - he will be all hugged out when we bloggers have finished with him
You've truly got a lovely soul mate keep up the profound posts they are great
Love
Samantha
xx
hi chris-just realised my hill is the canal.I walk for miles along the stratford and worcester canal with my golden retrievers and find all i need to put my world to rights.Love your show.love chris xx
Hi Chris and bloggers - what an inspirational bunch you all are
I heard about the blog on last night's show (thank you by the way for getting me through that rainy traffic jam on the M6 - and thank you Thorntons Special Toffee) and was blown away by this morning's entry. I agree with the earlier comment - how are you so lucid so early in the morning? Just fantastic. It takes me at least 2 cups of tea.
It's so interesting to hear what you describe as a 'hill' - hills often have negative connotations: a challenge to be overcome, getting 'over the hill', something insurmountable and scary.
It's nice to reclaim the word as a positive place (physical or otherwise), somewhere to be and find yourself. I climbed Great Gable in the Lake District recently and that feeling of being 'on top of the world' is what we should all hold onto when we're doing all the huffing and puffing it takes to get there.
My twin hills are reading and writing - I completely agree with you Chris about the magic of bookshops, and indeed of books. I'm surrounded by books in my little house, which I need to pack up soon as am moving down to London to be with my beloved. We'll be renting for a while so I have to put my books into storage... the thought of packing them away is a little disheartening, but when I unpack them again in a few months' time it will be like Christmas Day!!
As for the writing, I was inspired by what you said about sculpture. I'm writing a novel at the moment and it can seem daunting but the trick is to chip away daily at the little pieces and hope that in time a beautiful whole will appear! Making time for it every day (even if it's 5 minutes of notes scribbled on the back of an envelope on a train) gives me that little moment of peace from the humdrum and hobnobs and detritus of daily life.
Chris I read an article written by a friend of mine recently, it's called 'Finding your Smile in Mid life'. It seems to me you've found yours, no problem, but I think you would like the piece and I'm sure my friend won't mind if I email it to you.
Love, hills, potatoes and peace
J x
PS Having dinner with some friends the other night I was raving about your show and they said I reminded them of a female version of you! Not sure how it was meant - !! - but I certainly took it as a compliment. Keep up the great work.
Chris, You seem to spend a lot of time working for some one at the top of his hill !
Good luck mate
Chris
You are so right. I know people who work from 6 in the morning until late. I wonder what they are running away from? Is there some secret sadness - hope not. I work hard but am not obsessed
My hills - well not that exciting but required by me.
I go to Mass on a Sunday - thats truly time to reflect and forget the world etc.
Exercise and reading are my other two. If I feel fed up after a bad day I go to bed with a bar of chocolate and a glass of water as I love it and a good book - pure escapism
If I stop all my escapes - I feel trapped and caged in by everyones demands.
Heartbreak is the pits and you know what I got to 40 and gave up on Men/relationships and life has been so much happier. There is always this social pressure to be in a twosome - you can have a great life alone and I hate to admit it but as we all get older there is so much baggage and I can't be doing with it. Selfish I know but easy.
Everyone will now think I am a misewrable old bat and I will now run away and hide and await your show tonight
Love it - the veg man was spot on
Take care and have a good show
I remember a great toast a Polish relative said at my wedding "wealth, health and happiness - and time to enjoy it". We must all make time to enjoy life, in whatever way, big or small, travelling the world or decorating your home. My 'me' time is a long, deep bath on a Sunday afternoon with a vodka and tonic - very indulgent. I lie there with the radio on, drifting, while the rest of the world carries on outside. Haven't done it for ages though as life's been hectic, will make sure I get to my hill again this Sunday.
Great blog Christophe and great show. Really didn't think I'd be able to cope with the drive home without Johnny, but you're doing a grand job - mange tout, mange tout.
Have fun!
Jennie
PS Hope your mate's heart mends soon.
hi Chris...
Thanks for your blog today.... very nice words.... and yes I agree.... we all need a 'timeout' zone for once a day or once a week, where you can be, and do, what ever you want, and be yourself.
I guess 'being happy' can be a lot of things for many different people... a state of mind, or being in a certain place or time..listening to 'that' song etc ... whatever makes you happy :0)
We have a smelly office today at work because the loos broke last night.... and leaked in the staff kitchen------pooooooo! so not a nice atmos today at work.... but you have inspired me to have a nice day regardless! thank you.
cheers,
Lee
Ok so I'm back and glad to see some people are thinking happy thoughts and sending L&H to Chris' mate.
Right this is it I am going to create an almighty mess in my kitchen and attempt making jam - 2 flavours, plum and strawberry. So I have equal fruit to sugar, little water, heavy based pan and some jars - I just hope it works cos it'll be the most expensive jam I've ever eaten - £15.48 for fruit and sugar!!! Plus £8 on sealing jars!!! Still if it works and it's lovely it'll be worth it!! On the plus side of purchasing all this stuff I did treat myself to a little me time treat - KrispeKreme doughnut!! Possibly the best doughnuts in the world!!
L&H
Ladyfozzxx
Hello Everyone,
Do you still have a TV production company Chris as I have a great TV programme idea?
My idea is for a programme called 'Murder House Doctor', it'd be perfect for Channel 4/5 and would combine peoples interest in (i) murders and all things gory and (ii) doing up scruffy houses for selling.
These 2 areas would be combined by taking a house where a murder had been committed and sprucing it up for resale; getting rid of those unsightly blood stains, repainting the hall in a neutral colour, etc.
The programme would be interesting as everyone is curious about murders and what happens to a murder house after the newspapers have a new story to cover is never reported, aren't you curious what happens to these houses?
The programme could also give rise to 'Murder House Doctor - Revisited' where the buyers of the house are visited after say 6 months to see how they've got on living in a murder scene; have they seen any ghosts, etc. This could be another 60 minute programme with only 10 minutes of new footage!
I don't work in TV myself (I know this will surprise you given the quality of this idea) so I don't know how to progress it? I am however willing to give you first refusal, interested?
Also, what other ideas for TV programmes do people have that the multitude of TV channels are not yet producing?
Cheers,
G Whizz
Chris,
My hill is taping Saturday kitchen, watching it and then cooking one of the recipes myself. This week, I'm going to try Martin Blunos's Chick Livers...in fact I'll do it tonight whilst listening to your programme.
Great fun!
Chris,
As usual, wise words. I moved to the Penines to find my hill, plenty of them here for me to go and find my spot on my mountain bike after a day on the busy roads. Your encounter last night with the wannabe fish chef made me think about fish skin for a bit. Do you or any other shloggers know why here in the north they remove the skin from the fish before frying it whereas chippies from my native south keep the skin on? So much nicer without mixed with gravy and mushy peas.
Looking forward to the show.
Brett
Great blog Chris.
Have thought for a long time that there are people who seem to think that if they are not doing something or planning something then life is boring.
Everyone needs to take some time to sit back and watch the world go by. You never know what you will learn about yourself!!
Cheers
Sally
WOW, inspiring words.
My hill is the bath, however with only one cludgy (toilet) in the house and twins, it can get a bit busy in there at times, but still the me time is great. I do still hark back to the paper round time as a kid, maybe a walk in the morning before the long drive to work would help.
Great blog Chris
I have often thought that there are people who think that if they are not doing something or planning something then life is borinng.
Everybody needs to take time to sit and watch the world go by. You never know what you might learn about yourself!
Cheers
Sally
Hey Chris!
You are so right about needing "me" time. After a difficult couple of years, I plucked up the courage last year and left my job after eight years. I bought myself a camper van and visited the west of Britain and Wales for six months and walked, sat on beaches, read, had "me" time. I'd moved around a lot with my job but was based in towns and cities around Britain. But since my sabbatical, I've finally realised my dream of a cottage in the country, growing my own fruit and veg, gardening, walking. And although my travels were my hill and I can't just go back to that, I can at least sit and think about my travels and review what I learnt about myself. You are an inspiration, Mr Evans!
By the way, have you ever walked the South West Coast Path from Poole in Dorset to Minehead? You'll find a few hills there!
Take care everyone
xxxx
Absolutely loved the blog on finding your hill ... thought it was very philosophical and true.
We should all make a bigger effort to take the time to stand and stare ...
Thanks Chris ... brilliant to read and take on board.
PS my husband likes his solitary bath and I reach for my fave book and the setee!
Hi Chris.
I first became a regular listener of yours when you were doing the wonderful Too Much Gravy on sunday lunchtimes prior to the big breakfast.
I have often wondered why you never make any reference to that show when talking about your past career. I used to cook the sunday lunch to it in the kitchen while my partner at the time was at work. It was a brilliant show and I totally loved it. Person or personality and all the rest of it. And that horn you were always honking. Hope you dont mind me asking, just seems strange that such a brilliant and different show at that time is nowadays not spoken about. I bet you would be very suprised at the reaction if you mentioned it now.
We listen to your show here in Lanzarote via satellite every day when possible. We all love it especially the friday listeners choice.Hope everything just gets better and better for you. best thing bbc ever did was get you back on air.
Kind regards
Dick Knowles
First time replying for me but I thought, what a great idea, I need a hill. So, I went back to my eighties tape collection and dug out a compilation I had made myself. Great scratching noises and abysmal, abrupt endings where I have taken the needle off too soon but then I heard a song I've not heard since about 1985. It's called "Can't Stop Running" by, I think, Space Monkey. BRILLIANT.
I danced around with glee in that very perculiar Morrisseyish way of the 80's. My 12 year old son was happy to leave me in peace when I told him, "No, Mam hasn't gone mad, just popped up her hill for a while like guru Christophe recommended".
Haven't felt this 'smile inside' for years.
Thanks Chris
Morning all!
Another great blog, as usual. I have several 'hills' - pampering myself with some lovely expensive skincare products - they may be a con, but they make me feel GREAT so I don't care!, lounging in the bath, going to bed early and reading my book till the early hours of the morning, taking the dogs for a walk, and yes, listening to Chris' show every day! Its changed my daily routine - I now stay in my kitchen till 7 every night so I can listen to the very end, always a treat, always makes me smile. And I check out the blog every day too and read all the comments when I'm supposed to be working - oops!
Big (((hugs))) to your friend Chris. Hopefully he will see the bigger picture again soon.
Love to everyone!
Cathxxxxxxx
Well said Chris.
It's the standard work to live not live to work arguement.
Everyone needs time to just chill and get into a happy place. Mines sea fishing with my wife, Wendy - doesn't matter where, the world just slows down and everything is great.
Great blog, great show.
Hi
That was a really deep and profound comment. At the monment I am working hard, playing hard and moving house and had forgotton to make me time. So a bath and cheesy film last night really did the job - listening to Pink Floyd in the bath is enough to relax me.
Thanks Chris for reminding us about the important things in life.
Emily
Re your comment on whether or not to answer your phone when you are having 'me time'.
As an oldie and a complete technophobe my mobile phone was forced upon me by my teenaged children for use 'in emergencies only'. For this reason my phone stays off most of the time.
If I am out and someone is trying to get in touch then it will wait, like it always did before the invention of the mobile!!!
And I am not interested in seeking the opinion of my family as to whether we have chicken this week or beef on Sunday. I do not feel the need to consult them whilst in the supermarket as I have done the shopping on my own, unassisted & competently for 25 years!!!
Rant over!! Phew, enjoyed that. Thanks for listening
Christophe - you've taught me three things today
1. why I take that bath
2. why I choose to work a couple of days a week even though I'm past retirement age
3. that we can choose to be unhappy, or indeed, to be happy
thanks for that - I'm off to sit in the bath
Teresa
Re #60
Ladyfozz
Don't worry if the jam isn't perfect first time, it comes with practice. The most important thing is finding the setting point. Over time this will become a "feel" when stirring the pot but what I was taught by my gran (oh dear, have I really been making jam for 30 years?) is to put a plate in the fridge, when you think the jam is ready drop some onto the plate & leave for a couple of minutes. If setting point has been reached a skin should form on the top.
As for the cost
1) grow your own fruit
2) buy fruit from pick your own farms (and don't eat too many whilst picking)
3) keep an eye out for fruit at reduced price for quick sale
4) don't put in so much sugar - this again becomes a feel over time and can be adjusted according to taste.
Above all, enjoy, and if at first you don't succeed.
Hope this helps
Paul
Christoph
Very well said! State of mind, happiness, life balance is all a choice, whether we know it or not!
Sometimes it doesn't feel as though it is a choice but consider this - you can choose to be positive and you can choose to be miserable - no choice is wrong - a choice is a choice - just be prepared to acknowledge you made it and only you can change it!
Best piece of advice I've received was from a very wise man who said "Let it flow then let it go".
LL2TF x
I am amazed, I mean, I love the show, you always sound so full of energy and 'pep', but reading the blog is just like hearing you talk, and it is inspiring.
I want to go find a photo of me at 4 or 5 to make sure I still know who I am. I understand about finding somewhere that grounds me and brings me back, I just don't do it enough anymore. It isn't difficult to do - my thing is singing - in the car, the shower, even karaoke. Why don't more people sing in the car? I think it great when people smile because they see (or hear) me singing my heart out along with the radio!
I think I am starting to be a happy person. I still have a good few bits to chip away at, and a billion things to learn, but you are spot on with this!
Right Royal Reverand Christifor,
I've just found your blog page and boy that's heavy stuff, good but heavy. But i'll tell you summat for nowt..... your spot on right about relaxing and having your hill. What surprised me is that i never thought about it like that. I have my hill and it helps me refocus each day. But the biggest thing for me is no matter what this insane world throws up I only need to walk down my garden path and be met by any one of the kids and do you know a hug, a hello and a smile just seem to cure all the problems. Keep up the good work reverand. The shows fantastic.
O by the way fish.... Try Salmon with a little chilli cooked in olive oil on a bed of cous cous fantastic
Keep smiling
Peggy
Hi Chris and fellow bloggers
Your poor friend - I do sympathise and I'm sure we've all had our heart broken at some point, but we do eventually get over it.
When I was younger and feeling fed up with life, my mum once said to me, "Don't worry, nothing stays the same for ever and something will come along to change what is happening now." When I look back at my life, I've realised she was right - there have been so many changes, and usually at a time when I thought things were never going to get any better.
I suppose what I'm saying is, your friend will recover in time because change happens - although it is painful at the moment.
As for my 'hill', mine is my lovely country garden, either first thing in the morning just listening to the birdsong (I live out in the sticks!), or coming home from work at night and sitting outside with a glass of wine. Bliss!
Have a good day everyone.
Sarah J xx
Ok Chris you've made me feel very guilty! I'm reading your blog over lunch, not really giving myself time to switch off from work as I am still sitting at my desk and people think that gives them a license to interrupt me. But it takes so long to read the blog and all the comments that I feel guilty about doing it in work time! Will have to find a happy medium.
Need to find my hill - think it'll involve spending time with my hubby and dog. This is why I'm moving house - so I can have me time looking into my garden from a conservatory - that's my idea of serenity!
Alison xx
Wise words!
I have two hills. I go horse riding once a week which keeps my mind on only what I am doing for one hour a week - important if you have a short attention span like mine!
My other hill is films, preferably at the cinema. I watch them all the time, but also when I am feeling down it puts things in perspective. The problems of characters in films are usually much more worse than mine!
Definitely want to try the potatoes thing, but not convinced the garden centres will still be selling them this time of year.
Hi Chris. Talk about timing. There I was feeling all down and depressed today - also nursing a broken heart. I've been really good for weeks, then suddenly bang back down to the bottom of the hill again. Here you are with some wonderful words of wisdom to help to lift me back up.
I also made someone's day today which was a lovely feeling. I made a special trip to a department store to specifically thank one of their make up team for the makeover she had given me a week or so ago - I had returned to the office and was told I looked 'radiant'. When I told her this today she said "I'd made her day". I think we should all try to do something every day to make someone smile and feel good inside.
Keep up the good work Chris - I visit every day for inspiration!
Great Blog.
Hi Chris,
I can't believe that it's taken me all this time to read the bloggs so far, just spent the morning catching up. Todays is the best yet and i'm now going to climb my hill, jim jams on hot cup of tea,a bit early for wine! and a good book. Nobody is home weather is bad and the house is clean. Perfect.
enjoy the show later and i'll get up early tommorrow to read the blog before work. See you at the golf bank holiday weekend and do it again for the brits! Luv Lisa
For all you fellowChristmas potato growers.....
I have spent the morning contacting garden centres farms and seed producers to purchase some seed potatoes for my pals who have agreed to join the 'grow your own Christmas spuds' army. I have called 17 places from Paignton to Invenress and not one seed potato to be had.
Not being the type to be thwarted in my pursuits I then called a random potato farm and sought the advice of a real potato farmer in Lincolnshire. He sounded just the part and advised me to sprout my own potatoes so I'm passing this on for anybody else having similar trouble.
Just get any regular potatoes and put them in the fridge for a day. The potatoes then think it's winter. The next day put the potatoes somewhere dark at room temp (kitchen drawer is ideal). In 10 days or so the potato should have several green sprouts 1-2 inches long and can be used as seed.
He then questioned me on how I would care for the growing potatoes like I was some potato abuser or something! He soon realised I was harmless but not well informed and spent the next TEN MINUTES telling me how to give my potatoes the best care speaking of them as if they were his friends! That really warmed my cockles! I've always fancied being a farmers wife......
Debs x
Chris
Nice one!
Reading your blog today reminded me of the time I spent living in Spain when I was about 18 (I am much older and fatter now mind you). I loved it there. New people. Parties. Learning a language. Rushing around having fun.
Now I am older and have had big important jobs and big important responsibilities I look back on thos times in Spain and the lesson I have learned is that a few little rules that you set for yourself really can make a hugh difference.
The Spanish culture set some rules down. Siesta for example. Shops not opening at certain times for another.
I have a little rule of my own that relly helps me out. I finish work at 6pm at the latest. I never work at weekends. That's it. Those are my rules. When you write them down they seem overly simple but they work. I can repeat my rules to people at work and the reactions can be wuite interesting - particularly from those people who haven't set themselves any. Generally, those folks are the ones that speak of failed marriages and illness (with a little pride sometimes I fear).
All the best
David
P.S. I live near Hascombe and enjoy a bev at the White Horse on occaision! Nice pub that.
So being a fan of yours since the DFYTB days, finding and learnign about your blog today made incouraged to read.
Wow great reading, your still on my top 5 people to invited to dinner for great conversation.
I have been looking for my hill for some time since the break up of my marriage.
I sort of forget to look sometimes with the hectic lifestyle and work life I have.
Slowly finding time to myself and think about where makes me happy, so how of us have oyr hills but not realise we are on it?
Mine is my flat be it in my small but perfectly formed kitchen or lieing in my bed working out fine tuned calculations of a morning on how much time I have to stay in bed befroe I have to get up and get to work.
Shaving seconds every day!
Anyway thank you to a fellow poster....I think I have discovered an additional hill to have.
For months I have had an address in my wallet for a piano teacher, tonight I will knock on the door and start those lessons for myself to get lost in music of my own making while on hopefully my hill.
Ian H
Wycombe
Love the Blog and Show.
I recently had my heart broken by a man I cared about. To make things even worse he won't have the decency to talk to me or answer my mails or text. I am obviously far too good for him and better off without him. My head knows this, my heart has to catch up. Know how your mate feels.
Do take time out for myself often. They are my "I'm worth it"moments.
Keep up the good work. The Veg bloke yesterday was again, superb.
You inspire me to be happy and carefree. I listen to you every evening on my way home and I manage to catch about 3/4 of the Shlogg. Great Stuff! I think it is possible that we have several tops to our hills. I can be at the top of my hill when baking a cake or simply looking at beautiful images and places in nature or just watching my little girl.
Ali
xx
Bloody hell! these comments are growing by the day! Just wanted to add my own bit. Firstly, fab blog today Chris. You're much deeper than you look (and I mean that in the nicest possible way) and I agree with everything you said.
My 'hill' is sitting in my spare bedroom which I've converted into a 2nd lounge (Hubby likes to watch Sky, so I watch terrestrial TV or read the paper) whilst cuddling my two lovely doggies and making sure they know how much I love em.
And secondly, didn't know you had a doggy of your own. Well, if 'his auntie' has any problems with him, give me a shout as I'm a canine psychologist!
Much love sweetie
xxx
Chris,
Enjoy the show and the blog. What is my hill? I have two I guess. One is my daughter...I am a single parent and thus am constantly reminding myself that I am what stands between her and the world. That role simultaneously terrifies and grounds me. It doesn't allow me to get carried away with myself and my petty little problems.
My other hill is running...or 'shuffling' in my case. When I am running out on the road, my knees are aching and my quads are burning, I come head on with my own determination. I have to choose to keep going in spite of the nagging voice in the back of my head saying "it would be so easy to stop right now!" I have to choose to ignore that voice and push through. It is humbling and a great leveler. It doesn't matter what is going on in my life good or bad, when I lace on my running shoes I face that same internal struggle...but when I am done it is oh so good.
Have a great afternoon fellow bloggers!
Lovely stuff.
I shall stop working for the day. Would you like a coffee? Bourbon? My treat.
I'll put the kettle on, turn the computer off, my feet up and calm down.
PS: The veggie man sounds like Basil Brush! but he is very good and yep, does deserve a regular slot.
I know what you mean about your own time and space. I dealy love all my famility and friends and enjoy company, but I also need to be on my own. I work in a busy famility business and no matter what the day throws at me I know that when I get home, I'll take a quick cup of coffee, put my boots on and go for a walk over the mountains at the back of our house. We live near Conwy in North Wales, and the walks and views are amazing. - The walks, either by the sea or over the hills, are my tonic in an otherwise hectic world, and boy, does it put things into perspective.
Great show, I listen every night as I drive from my workplace in Prestatyn along the A55 to Conwy. - Friday's show is brill and gets me in the weekend mood. One of these days I will phone in for a request.
Keep well, Chris and enjoy your success.
Chris the philosopher you are so true, finding time for pleasure is hard work and sometime your inspired comments will make me seek. Imagine how I felt when I read your comments well sitting behind my computer eating my lunch, while a beautiful day was just outside my office, and I’m to busy to get of my sorry ass and greet it with vigour. Sorry much dash to a meeting, but I promise to ditch the corporate suit and get some me time.
Cheers Mike T.
What a lot of sense you make Chris....so as i am sat here feeling very bored today i got to thinking of my hill and it is you, you have been that thing i do, that something for me that i love, i have been watching (Big Breakfast) or listening (Breakfast Shows) to you since i was 12 and was guttted when you disappeared because my day had always started with you and i even used to tape parts of the show just in case it didn't last forever! I am loving the blogs, am loving having you back and really loving everyone's comments!!!! am gonna get back to reading more of the blog!!
PS. i even covered my geography book with piccies of you!!!!
Afternoon,
An inspirational read today. Just what I needed as I am having a bit of a rough time these last ew weeks. Reading these entries has become my personal hill. For now it is back to bed for an afternoon nap!
hugs to Vhris and his friend.
Driving into work this morning, I was getting hugely stressed at all the "slow" cars in front of me, making me late.
Then I thought of all your blogs and realised that, hey, it really didn't matter. So I relaxed, listened to Sir Terry - and made it into work on time!! Thanks!
Re hillage - it's the gym for me. 30 minutes on the stepper as often as I can followed by a few weights. Something very therapeutic about doing something repetitive when all you focus on is the music on the ipod and the physical effort. And it makes you feel great afterwards too.
Am off home now to spend time with my hubby as I've already put in far too many hours at work this week...
L&H to your friend
S x
I'm currently trying to change how l look at the world, l've always had times of being happy, but general contentment that's a hard one to pin down...
At the moment I'm really trying to think in a different way, look at people without being critical (an automatic reflex to how l think people will be thinking about me!) feeling grateful for all the things that l have (despite an unfortunate period on the rock and roll) enjoying the things in life which cost little, walking the dog, eating nice food, being with friends and family, reading and so on...
Having time for yourself is something l realised l never had, not in the sense that you feel some kind of serenity, working like a looper certainly never gave me it nor did shopping myself in to a heap load of debt...what has given me a little taste has been this year of no job, having to confront the patterns of the past and realising that at the end of the day if it all goes tits up (debts, still having no job, losing house etc) l will not be dead, l will still have my dog, my family my friends, a fairly practical head on my shoulders and the capacity to see where it all went wrong and start again...
In terms of having a little chuckle to myself once in a while l would like to thank the butcher who has a sign on the back of his van saying 'There are no pies left in this van overnight' everytime l think of it l can't help but laugh and life is too short not to...
Thanks for todays blog Chris it cheers me up no end to know that l must be moving in the right direction you seem very contented and happy these days....
PS Re #97
Did everyone else used to cover their schoolbooks with pictures and stickers and stuff?
Mine were covered with pictures of Shakin' Stevens (sad, I know) then Duran Duran and A-ha! I guess I'm showing my age now tho....!
S x
This is the first time I have posted on the BLOG.
Over 1000 fantastic.
Love the show Chris. Always listen while cooking tea, eating it and tidying up. Michael van Straeten(?) was an excellent guest.
The BLOG is brill. I agree with Jonahwood - you are quite a deep person.
My hill is my eighteen month old daughter. She has change my life beyond anything I imagined - all for the better. She is fascinating.
Go steady. Can't wait for tonights show.
Oops, sorry. I meant #96 about the school/college books!
My life, my time - work to live not live to work.
I find taking my dog out twice a day always put's things into perspective, the look of complete joy on her face when I grab her lead - I've taken her out twice a day since we have had her some 5 years ago however she is as happy now as she was on our first ever walk. She's never stressed, never to busy. I have a cushion which I look at it at least twice a day - 'be the person your dog thinks you are'.
On the veg issue - grew carrott's, beetroot and tomato's this year - nothing like having a meal with your own veg.
re # 100
we had to cover all our books and Smash Hits Magazine used to have tons of posters each issue and freebie stickers...i had a piccie of Chris with his finger up his nose!!!
A-ha...was not really a fan!!!
F
#89 Yes, if he has not got the decency to reply to you, then you are far too good. Take all the "I'm worth it" moments that you can. Good luck.
Greeting Chris and Fellow Bloggers.
Well like most of my fellow bloggers, i too loved the food guy, he's the sort of bloke i'd invite to a party cos he would just 'WOW' everyone!.. Such an interesting bloke!.. i agree with the previous blogger #6... he should so have his own slot on either TV or Radio!!...
I made a pact with myself when i woke up this morning, i told myself that i am going to smile at everyone i see today and share my smile.. after all, a smile costs nothing and if you smile at someone, it may even lift their day. I even made a point of saying hello to people who looked slightly down or miserable.. 90% of people said hello back, but there was the odd person who replied with "No, I don't want any thank you!" or "Sorry, not got time!!"... how can you not have time to smile?.. you can smile while doing whatever else it is that your doing, and like i say, smiling is free !!.. and it makes ya feel good !!
One thing i am curious... and perhaps a little concerned about is why i woke up this morning with the song "young hearts, run free" in my head?.. not heard the song in years and have no idea why it was in my head at 7am, but there it was, blareing away in there!.
Does anyone else think that we're all getting too stressed these days?.. For a while now, i have routinely taken some 'me time' after work. Get home, run a bath, throw on some incense, light some candles and melt away into the relaxing sounds or Mozart... this is all good, but... no matter when i do it.. you can bet ya last £1 that about 5 mins into drifting away... the doorbell goes.. or the phone rings... now i dont know about you guys, but i have to answer it!.. door or phone, i need to hoist myself out of heaven and into reality just incase it's rachel stevens calling to tell me she's finally realised that i'm the bloke she needs!... ok, perhaps thats a little wishful, but i hate not answering stuff incase it's someone that needs me. I guess the main reaosn i do it is because i know that if i were in the same situation, they would do the same for me. Mozart i can play again and again, it's special and needful moments that come... and go, and i feel if i dont take them... i may never get those moments again.
ok, now that i've made everyone yawn... back to work for me ;)
Take care all !!
Mark
I have several "hills" but find to much time spent in my own thoughts makes me less happy not more so. If i stop to analyse my life i get too down and introspective. The usual questions " what have i done with my life etc" bring the answers I dont want to hear and the realisation that i will have very little for my family to write a decent epitaph( spell) about. I would love to find my spirituality, to be less shallow and not worry that I still havent stopped smoking, i weigh too much, I am the wrong side of 40 bla bla bla.
My husband and mates all say I think too much....is that possible? I know everyone asks the same questions and we all search for our own piece of heaven on earth. So in short, i prefer to keep running and not stop to think and hope that the answers will miraculously appear in the end.
Hi Chris, I'm a first time blogger. Very profound and moving today, made me quite emotional. Thanks. Keep it up.
My hills:
Bath with music and candles
good book
bottle of wine and girly dvd
company of friends (and more wine)
live music
etc etc.
guess I must be a happy person, I've got lots of hills it seems (or maybe I'm easily pleased!).
Re potatoes: I'm great at buying veg one week and then throwing it away the next. Back in March I think, I found some potatoes in the bottom of the fridge which had sprouted. I planted a few in my border amongst the flowers. Hey presto, August, loads of potatoes. Magic! How easy is that?
Might put some more in for Christmas.
Also, I planted a tomato plant in my front garden - outside, don't have a greenhouse - it's now about six foot tall with hundreds of little toms on it. I've had about half a dozen so far. Pray for sun so the rest ripen!
Would love more time to grow more stuff - and a bigger garden - one day perhaps.
Anyway, love the show and the blogs make it more interesting and make you feel part of it somehow.
Best wishes to you.
E xx
REF 96 + 100
I used to cover my books at high school with pages from the Beano, I'd change them once a month much to the delight of my geography teacher.
I also used to take them in when I'd finnished reading them so the Humanities department could read them in the staff room!
My brother who is a bit older than me use to teach at the same school while I was a pupil there and he said even my headmaster had been known to take a sneaky peep when he thought nobody was looking! :0)
I am just getting into the BLOG Chris and am really enjoying all the comments.
I really also enjoy the show on my way home from work - relaxes me and gets me wound down for a quiet evening.
I agree totally with post no: 99. I too am making some life changes due to terrible problems in the last 5 years and am hoping finally that all my hard work will come to fruition.
I am at the moment content to be alone and in tune with myself and my thoughts. Friends and family are great and a much needed support system at times but I have finally realised that my life is my own and I need to live it my way.
Keep up with the great show Chris and look forward to listening on my way home this evening. :-)
Good words Chris, we first have to lose ourselves before we truly find ourselves.
"Walk your dog every day, even if you don't have a dog".
Although, I suggest you avoid dragging a stuffed teddy bear type dog along beach or around park as funny looks may result!
We all have our hills, we just may not realise it, mine is cooking, creating a masterpiece (opinion!! :-)) from nothing, well except a Jamie Oliver cookbook and a great deal of guesswork!
Be passionate, think of others, as with your friend who currently knows love hurts, and strangely the pain he will be going through has a positive that makes him know he is alive.
Alive with feelings (perhaps not the best ones, but hey there feelings), and the thought that it can get better, and lets face it, it could be a whole lot worse.
Think of the bad or difficult times as a bad hangover, you know that no matter how cr*ppy you fell in the morning, you will feel better in the afternoon, so it can only get better.
It is therefore a good day!
Great blog Chris, congratulations on many moments of inspiration, and look forward to your show later today.
Hi Chris,
Yours was the first blogg I have read... ever, and also my first comment. Really enjoyed your thoughts on your 'hill' but couldn't immediatly think of mine. Then it struck me the thing I do when I'm down which instantly cheers me up and brings back excellent memories is cooking eggy bread (or gypsy toast). I first did this whilst watching 'Why Don't You' as a youngster and although I know its not good for you and goes against my usual healthy diet I just love it :-) I never feel guilty eating the fried, egg soaked bread!! Had occassion to prepare it earlier this week when things weren't going too well and it worked a treat!!
Love the Shlogg and thanks for helping me recognise one of my hills!!
Tracey
what a great blog Chris - I wish I had read it this morning but my internet server has been down till now - have been v stressed all day due to various circumstances:
walked dog with sore paw back to vet for dressing change #3, (i tried to walk it was more a sprint as his foot is better and he pulls)!
joiner had to take out existing door frame as lovely husband measured door wrong and needed to start from scratch, new frame new facings etc - the boss will be invoiceing me for the extra time.....
take daughter #2 to Doctors (along with sleepover friend as had no car to get her home..)
tried to work,.......
roofing contractors left a lovely gaping hole at wall/roof junction just right for all sorts of big insects/small birds and lots of rain....
tried to work....
planners sent me approved planning documentation with wrong drawing....
tried to work, internet on hooray.....read blog and thought stop moaning you silly besom (Scottish word)!!
must try the 'hill thing' think me and lovely husband need it...........
have'nt had time to read everyone elses replies today but that might be my hill thing.......
love Dot
Ahoy-hoy Christophe!
I've just been enjoying the picture of you being snogged by Lucy The Slut on the Avenue Q website.
I hope you enjoyed the show - I saw it back in June and haven't laughed so much since The Producers, which was the best show in the world ever - God bless Nathan Lane (and internet porn!)
Oh my goodness,
Read the blogg this morning this is fast becoming like a cult.....are you going to open a house and invite one and all to live in it and share all our possesions. Are you the pied piper in disguise but instead of leading us all off to drown we all go off and sit on a hill!
Liked the one who's hill was their partner that's nice i too just need to be near my wife and all else falls away, the kiddies too but their more like mounds.
The gym, football, my backgarden with a nice glass of wine swimming in the Thames estuary, but trying to avaoid the Jeely fish, riding my bike along the promenade, cosh did not realise i had so many.
Debster # 85 - thought so thats the answer i was looking for... roll on, potatoes for Christmas.
Oh and one last thing Chris was it me or whilst during one song being played last night were you playing your desk with a pen/pencil. Sure i was hearing these drumming type noises coming through my head phones!!!
Right back to work, looking forward to what we learnt today!
Ciao
Denchy
Hi Chris and bloggers
Well I am a great fan of your radio show, but I was a blog-virgin!! Now I have discovered you I shall be blogging in every day!
You are so profound Chris and have absolutely hit the nail on the head. You have made me think today - and for a teacher on summer holidays that really is saying somethng.
I am married to a workaholic. He doesn't need much sleep and so if he wakes up at 5.30am he will get up and go to his office, which is about 15 minutes from home. He wakes me to say goodbye and then I am sound asleep in no time!! He won't be back until 6.30pm and regularly doesn't leave his office/desk/computer the whole day - surely not right??
Some people believe that it must take courage to allow time for ourselves : that we are somehow not worth it and it would be better to spend the time doing something else. I have discovered how fab it is to steal 20 mins of a busy mother's day to sit on my back doorstep and watch the birds being busy and plan the garden!! The washing will be there when I have finished just sitting and day-dreaming and ..............happily .............being.
Thank you Chris
Neen
xx
oh and L & H to Chris' mate - nothing worse than a broken heart..........xx
love Dot
sorry to hr about yr broken hearted friend, my friends goin thro one too and its the worst thing in the world. Theres a book called It s called a break-up because its broken and it was my bible when i broke up with my fella earlier this year. u shud buy yr friend a copy, i'v learnt mine to my friend.
goin up my hill on friday night. its on the dance floor in a salsa club. i completely loose all perspective of what club i'm in and what time it is and whats gone on that day and i dance. it doesn't actually matter who im dancin with as long as they kind of kno what they'r doin, the rhythm jus takes control of my body and its like goin to yr most comfortable familiar place and letting go. plus dancin that close to someone is a wonderful experience too. not in a pervy way of course but when 2 people come together who may not even kno each others names and they can dance together its like no feelin on earth, it really is magical.
off to ikea tonight so i'l hav to wait til tomorro till i can climb up but it'l b worth it,
xxx
Wotcha,
I always wondered what a blog was... Heard you talking about them last night so thought I'd 'ave a nosey! What a fabby idea!
I've got a huge amount of hills - practically anything that doesn't actually involve walking up a real one!
Great tip I tried off the telly or out of a mag somewhere, re growing potatoes : Get a bag of peat / compost, empty it, turn the bag inside out (looks prettier) put a few inches of peat back in, whack in some sprouted potatoes (chits!?!) chuck another couple of inches of dirt. As the plants grow, they sprout upwards, keep shoving on the dirt till the bag's more or less full. Slash the bag top to bottom & get knocked out by your harvest! Reuse the dirt where you want - so costs nothing to grow!
Cheers for assisting me in achieving my first blog - that'll impress someones kids!
Kazzy x
My hill is literally that a hill or a mountain to be climbed. I don't get to do it every week but nearly do. The feeling you get when you get to the top against all that the British weather can chuck at you is fantastic. Anyone who wants to come and experience it is most welcome.
Back to yesterdays chilli post #47 I tried the extra cumin Sal Acious only one spoon full it was nice but it did nearly take the lining off my mouth perhaps I'll use a bit less next time.
Thanks Chris. I've had my butt stuck to this chair since 9am and after ready your inspirational post I'm going to take a break and enjoy the sunshine. Looking forward to the show this evening.
Ola Chris
Excellent blog today, very thought provoking. Today I just wish I could put my daughter at the top of her 'hill' so that she could feel the peace and see the beauty of the world. Today she perhaps like many other young people is not at the top of her world due to her A/AS level results - I just wish that they could all see the future for a minute and see that yes it can and will be rosy and that today is just a little bit of a pebble on the road that they walk.
Keep up the excellent 'blogging' and I hope your mate soon finds his hill.
Katie
x
Oh My God - its as if you have been looking through a keyhole at my life (you haven't have you!!??) - God I really need to find my hill and sit at the top of it for a few days - had some really naff days recently BUT good news yesterday - my Daughter Ellie who was born with a Congenital Heart Defect was taken off her medication which she has been taking for 15 mths because her doctors say she is doing so well. So now I haven't that to worry about I am off to my hill, whereever that maybe........
Today's blog has inspired me to respond. We all need a hill and I have realised I need to make more time to visit mine!
Keep blogging
A
x
mine used to be a nice long drive.. I would drive all over scotland, when uni work, or uni woment went wrong, off i'd go, in my rover 214 ( didn't drink, all my money went on that car ) i ended up in rock pools, and rivers, and hills and castles..
but it was my time, and alone time..
I don't do it anay more, cos when i met my last lady, she told me off for going away...
mnaybe i need to drive again.. faster, as i have a better car now!!!
well, there we go, you are mapping my road to recovery!
N
Chris- thanks for your thoughts today. I'm trying to get over a man at the moment and failing miserably! Without realising it I too have been keeping the mess a part of my life by discussing it over and over again with different friends. No more fuel!
The statue comment was so perfect. I'm going to replace sledge hammer with very small chisel and approach my life in a more positive way.
I have many hills and will try to appreciate them again.
Chris, thanks again. You have really helped me today and I feel I've took a step up.
Sometimes it is strangers who can reach us in a way that friends just can't. You are no doubt a wonderful friend - thanks today for being a beautiful stranger who has helped someone re ground themself.
Debbie X
Hmmm, can't believe I've forgotten to have 'a hill'. Being a busy working mum with two small children you read a lot about having some time to yourself but it's so easy to forget to actually do it. So thanks Chris, I'm going to rediscover my hill - think it might be 40 lengths at the local pool for me.
It's a crazy idea, growing spuds in a dustbin, but totally irresistible... I'm gonna do it!
PS First time I've read the blog- having heard you talking about it on the show - think I might get addicted...
I remember hearing someone suggest that in the West you often hear parents saying "I only want you to be happy", "as long as you are happy in life". The result is we grow up thinking that when we are not happy there must be something wrong with us. We get introspective depressed. In the far east, Success is often the mantra, parents are successful if they have successful offspring, successful in school, success in business. Suicide rates are very high per capita in this region especially teens and even young children, perhaps they think they don't match up to expectations? (what a burden for a child to bear!) . Generalisations I know but there is some truth here! The same person said if we bring up our children to do good. to admonish them when they are thoughtful and benevolent then perhaps they will experience more happiness and more success as a biproduct?
Hi Chris
That was seriously inspirational. Have spent time reading through all the comments and you have certainly inspired and given food for thought to a lot of people. You have given me a serious dose of positivty. But guilt has got the better of me now as I have spent an hour of my employers time reading through this.
Cheers
Geoff
Welllll.....a first timer here on the Blog....and think I will give up receiving a 'Thought for the Day' on my email and read the Blog instead!!
Really good advice, and something that I hold very dear to me...albeit having taken 'some years' to really get...
Hills for me are my husband, yoga, teaching yoga to others, meditation and walking the dog.
Feeling very happy today cos finish work today and am on annual leave, having my step daughters to stay for the week, so will have the chance to do girlie stuff!!!
Take care of yourself everyone!
Love Sarah x
I can empathise with anyone whose had a tough time of it recently, having been there myself.
Prompted by Mark (107), I really think that stress is becoming a big problem. I know we've not really been talking about stress as such, rather preventions and cures for it, but I really feel the need to state the following - to get it out there.
It truly amazes me how many people there are who genuinely believe that stress is a normal and, therefore, an acceptable part of life. WRONG!
NO! No! NO! No! NO!!!!!!!!!
For a lot of us, pressure is a normal part of life and can even be a motivating thing for some. But stress is a sign that something is very wrong; that the work/life balance or the giving time to others/yourself balance is off; that people aren't recognising/addressing sources of frustration and anxiety in their lives.
Stress is plain BAD! BAD! BAD!
It is NOT good. Believe me, I know. Failure to deal with your stress, whether caused by work or personal matters, can have very serious effects and lead to physical problems. If you're not careful, it can even cause death and I don't just mean as a result of suicide.
Sorry to be so over dramatic, but it really bugs me when people (usually those who are causing other people immense stress at work etc) say that stress doesn't exist or to get a grip or pull yourself together etc etc. I think that they're the ones who need to get a life, as David (#87) so astutely pointed out.
Sorry for the rant. I'll get off my soapbox now.
Eileen (#109) - I'm glad it's not just me who buys veg, only to see it decompose in the fridge from time to time. Having said that, it is amazing how long supermarket tomatoes can last in a fridge. I think 8 weeks has been the longest so far for me and they still look unblemished. However, I tend not to use them raw in salads etc, but use them in hot dishes, so that the cooking process kills off anything I can't see!
Thanks to Debs' excellent research (#85), I can now make good use of what I used to throw away, while berating myself (gently) for being so wasteful. What a great way to get into gardening!
Lastly, my thought for the day - taken from a note pinned to the wall by my desk that I've just noticed today:
Remember that life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.
My new resolution is to have more breath-taking moments! Hopefully, my 'hills' (when I find them) will help me to recognise and treasure them.
Hugs to all. Keep your chins up, folks! (I have 3!)
Christoff
Wow! I have spent the past week or so listening to your show and you refering to your blog. I can't believe the content! You must have Jedi powers of reason and understanding of the human mind.
You got me! I work too much, don't rest, don't play and don't find time for myself! I do though spend a huge amount of time with my son Morgan who will be three on Sunday. He is my hill.
I remember when I was younger and living on the coast, I used to walk and explore, occaisonally I took rest laying on my back during this time I would read the birds picking out the random letters from the migrating geese and would create my own special messages. It made sense to me at the time and if I admit at 37 it still makes sense to me! Never told anyone about the birds before and would admit I feel better fo it.
I'm on my Hill!
Thanks Christoff
The WelshWizard
Good Afternoon All
It seems everyone has discovered 'hills' in response to today's pace of life - in day of yore we would all have walked everywhere giving us tons of time for contemplation (not to say exercie).
We now need to create this time and although I thought it was a sign of premature old age I have started walking with The Ramblers Association - sometimes we talk, sometimes we sit and stare at the view,, even in the rain its so peaceful with the hood up on your kagole - something particularly alien to a London girl now moved up to the beautiful Worcestershire countryside.
My other hill is stroking my dear little Burmese cats who I saved from a life behind bars if they had been show cats - now they have hard paws from scrabbling up trees and scratches from catching beasts of the field but they are so content.
Food sounds like it is another hill for Chris - preparing it is more thinking time just like walking or having a long drive home from work - I think we are all becoming new age Budhists!
Cheers Christophe
Sal
Hi Sarah, #108,
Are you a capricorn by any chance? - you sound just like me! Too much introspection also makes me feel both terrified and depressed! However, if you are like me you will also find pure joy in unexpected places/moments, and that is I believe the key to fulfilment. I think we are wrong to expect to be happy all the time - happiness is an emotion and we are complex beings and would be quite dull and irritating to everyone else (think California) if we feel obliged to shout about our inner joy and peace the whole time. Give me a cynical depressed Brit any day. Far funnier.
Chris and team,
A while back when you were talking about setting up a blog, I txt in about my friend who has one about making a million pounds from an insurance rebate of £300. Well he was very excited last week because his blog has been accessed by someone from the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ - the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ server has accessed his blog - how chuffed was he....
So my question is Chris, was it you?
I do hope so because now he thinks I am just the greatest because I have got him celebrity interest in his blog! Please, please tell me you went and had a look!
(Oh the site was www.get-blogging.co.uk)
Cheers,
Nik.
Hi Chris, I'm a first time blogger as I listen every evening and decided I must join in.
Perfect timing too as your blog strikes a chord.
I've had a very difficult 4 years in which I lost sight of the hill and never thought I would get that back.
I've always tried to be positive and I am determined to get there. There have been events that I never thought I could overcome but there are always good things in life - I hope that for anyone else that are in their own difficult situations, they have the same thoughts and never despair.
I feel like life is getting away and I know I bury my head far too often but IT WILL GET BETTER!!!
I try to abide by a couple of rules at least -
1. Always look for the good in people (I learned that from the one I love - it is one of the greatest gifts she brought to me).
2. If you love someone, make sure you tell them and make sure you show it.
I'll be back on and listening tonight. Love the show as I did your brekkie R1 slot in the mid 90s. You should be content that you bring pleasure to many, many people.
Keep smiling...
Billy-Bob
Like so many others I am an avid listener but first time blogger. Had to search for the twice-baked potatos you mentioned last night and took ages to find the recipe but sounds pretty good so will try this weekend. My weekend starts here as I don't work on Fridays.
You are so right you have to work at relaxing - my yoga teacher produced a CD which I have downloaded onto my Creative Zen Micro (it has an FM radio so I can still listen to Radio 2 while out walking). I am unable to go to her class now but whenever I get time I just listen to her calming voice and if I can't do the moves just breath along with her instructions and its soooooooo relaxing.
I live in Hereford close to Hay-0n-Wye so am lucky enough to visit the many and varied bookshops regularly - wonderful place - well worth a visit for the bookshops not just the Festival.
Also found the instructions for growing spuds - so have made a note to have a go next year. Tried tomatos and runner beans this year. Toms still going well but more like cherry toms - delicious. Sadly while we were away on holiday even though a neighbour was watering the plants the ants attacked the runner bean plants (6 plants to a large tub and wigwam canes to support). There should have been a bumper crop but hopefully now we are around to keep an eye on the plants the flowers will be allowed to develop. I just love runner beans - my favourite - so gutted that those pesky ants got to them
Yep - I think you should produce a recipe book from the blogs. Got a couple of excellent puds that I will post next week.
Nearly home time --- and Drive Time! Didn't think anyone could follow Johnny but you are doing great - love the Magnificent Seven music - reminds me of my yoof!
This is my favourite blog, happiness is one of my all time favourite subjects! I was unhappy once, dark and dismall with no where to go, it took me hard work and a kick up the backside to come out the other side, and when i did I appreciated happiness more than anyone else, I did everything i was afraid of, travelled distance lands and laughed at myself daily!
Then I met a guy, fell in love and had his child by the age of 23. By 24 I was alone and sad with a half finished degree and a half finish adventure round the world.
Now at 25 I smile like never before, I count my blessings daily, this way the little things make you smile, the right song at just the right moment, that perfect cup of coffe or the perfect wine with the perfect food. That conversation that gets you excited, my little boy singing to himself whilst doing a jigsaw!
i will ofcourse finish my travels, I have started to study once more and one day may stumble across love again, but for the time being the little things keep me going just fine!
em25xx
Brilliant blog - i agree whole heartedly. conversation I have been having alot lately - When you wake up in the morning you have a choice - good day, bad day, happy day, miserable day. I truly believe that this is a concious choice, and I try to make the happy choice and not let work bog me down (too much!)
Keep blogging and I really love the Slog, it makes the drive home much more bearable!!
Great words Chris,
However my 'Hill' always gets invaded by my little soliders!!
May have to find a new secret one...
Hi ,
Thanks for reminding me of my hill. I can not be
there now but I can go there in a sec. in my mind.
Mange tout to you
I have an actual hill I either walk to or if i'm feeling energeic, run to. At the top I can see over Oxford which is surrounded by fields.
This is a place where I can think about things and how my life is and how I want it to be.
Great Blog today and great show.
Matt Lloyd, Cassington, Oxford
To Jill (#132) - re: the spuds, why wait till next year?
Join the gang - loads of us seem to be on the verge of planting some in bins or inside-out grow bags, so do likewise and join in the fun.
Can't wait for the shared potato triumph and woe stories on the blog at Christmas time. Wouldn't you want to be able to be a part of that conversation?!
Go on, you know you want to.
;D
Hi Chris
Will you do a book signing for this cook book that we are contributing to?
You could invite all the Blogers.
Just a thought
Nick
Thanks for your comments Abi #131. I couldn't agree more.
I was lucky enough leave the city rat race and train as a homoeopath at Regent's College in London ('89 - '92). In my mid twenties I already knew things were going too fast. I was a single mum and on super-track at work because I was so good at my job. My husband had left me (Whack!) for my best friend (double Whack!) and I didn't tell anybody for a year. I just didn't have the space for the pain and had nobody I loved to share it with.
I looked for my way out and it came in the form of leaflet left on a seat on a tube train. The College of Homoeopathy. I called as soon as I got home. I was even the first trainee Homoeopath to be given a grant to study there - something else I fought for.
I cannot tell you what amazing discoveries I made during my training; friends as well as lessons. I thought that moving away to the country would be the answer but I wouldn't be beaten. I was born and bred in London and I love the place. Besides, I could go to the country anytime. It was me that needed to change.......and I did.
I believe that we can only truly have our attention on one thing at a time. The stress factor is the loss of control and direction of our attention.
Simple meditation is the best key to sorting this out and sitting crosslegged with the incense and candles is not the way for all. You really need to have done most of your de-stressing begfore you can take that on. For most the walk or jog in the park, the book you read, the music you listen to and the long soak in the bath are all meditaions. Even shoe shopping and footie watching are facets of meditation. It's saunas for Chris. Even counting to ten can be enough of a blip to stop us bursting a blood vessel. So many ways........
Speaking of attention I am giving far too much of mine to this Blog and I am so glad that so many of you are finding it addictive! I gave up smoking last week and log on every time I want a ciggie. It's working so far so don't knock it!
Thanks to you all - especially you Chris - for making it all so interesting and a smoke free zone.
Time to walk to my car in time to tune in......can't wait.
Debs x
Chris you are legend.
Thought for your tearful mate - " No man or woman is worth your tears - and the one who is won't make you cry . "
My hills are watching my sons play footy and cricket, walking miles with my puppy Smartie, and making opportunities to RAK.
Good luck #60 with the jam.
Am still laffin at the 'no pies..' see #99 !
Chris you are legend.
Thought for your tearful mate - " No man or woman is worth your tears - and the one who is won't make you cry . "
My hills are watching my sons play footy and cricket, walking miles with my puppy Smartie, and making opportunities to RAK.
Good luck #60 with the jam.
Am still laffin at the 'no pies..' see #99 !
To #140
My little soldiers are my hill - although not so little anymore. they always manage to put a smile on my face.
I even had old photos (the real thing) out the other day which made me cry (because it only seems like yesterday that they were toddlers)and warmed my heart because they are have turned out to be fantastic young persons.
Enjoy your children
Ellie
That was a glorious read Chris.
It puts things into perspective.
I'm 22 and I don't need to be thinking about my career just yet - I'm off to buy a ticket out of here!
Marie
Your soooooo right Chris - You do need to make time for yourself, to be yourself. Then everything else - just makes sense. Love Flo x
What an excellent blog! A brilliant one for only my 2nd time of reading.
You are right about the hill. Everyone needs one!
I suppose I have a couple of hills. I'm a season ticket holder at Leeds United and really look forward to going (although it really annoys my partner because it seems 'everything stops for football!').
My other hill used to be to lay in the bath. Even when I lived at my parents I used to look forward to a bath as it was the only time that I could think and get things into perspective without many interruptions. Unfortunately I have taken considerably less baths in the past few months (purely down to the fact that we have a shower in our new house!). Maybe I should swap more showers for baths?
Keep up the good work with your friend. It's good that he has mates like you who'll interrupt your 'me' time to lend an ear!
Regards,
Lee
Think I'm weird.
Only own about 8 pairs of shoes and boots, and all are black apart from my trainers, which I usually live in - they are my footwear of choice.
What does that say about me? That I'm bl**dy lazy, probably; pants at decision-making; and/or get up too late so that I'm all in a rush and grab the first pair I see (so true, all of them!).
Enjoy your evening, one and all. Don't let them get you down - they're not worth it.
I was listening to you oin the way home in the car and now I have logged on for the first time to a "Blog" not sure what iut is but sounds great - nefgver too late to lear as I sm 63 yeasrs young. Keep up the blogs!
re shoes!!!!
I love them but dont wear them out as I dont walk any more!
I need to get new ones tho'
hugs
jenny
Afternoon Christoff and fellow blogers,
Just wanted to send cyber hugs to your friend. Perhaps you are his hill.
He is lucky having a friend like you. Friends are so important especially when your heart gets broken.
How about sweet potatoes?.....bake them...yum.
Or potatoes like my mum makes in the oven, scooped into little balls, with garlic, olive oil and rosemary. Mamma mia!!
Have a good night.
Dizzy
Never blogged before, but the sauna got to me. Personally I have an allotment in Guildford and when I need to chill, or meditate, I talk to my runner beans and find that as they don't talk back, I can work things out and clear my head. If you don't have an allotiment, grow some potatoes in a pot and talk to them!
Enjoy listening to the show on the way home in the evening - love the texts! - and decided to read your blog and comments for the first time today. Really thought provoking - my 'hills' are my family and my 'time out' bath on a Sunday (always a long bubbly soak with a good book to read - bliss!). Having children of my own really helps to put so many things into perspective - I'm less likely to feel down because they are always able to cheer me up (even if it's just thinking of something they've said or done recently). I just can't imagine life without them now - my old man figures in there as well! Try to focus on the positives and live a 'glass half full' life as far as possible. Not always easy but worth the effort. Keep up the good work guys!
Dear All,
Just listening to the show on my way home and all this talk of potatoes has dragged me out of 'lurker' status to make my first post!
A good family friend, Alan Romans, is a fountain of knowledge when it comes to potatoes. Not only has he writen "The Potato Book" (blurb on the book: "All you need to know about the humble spud! "The Potato Book" traces the history of the potato from its beginnings in South America to the development of variety breeding. It explains all aspects of growing, from choosing seed potatoes, planting and maintenance, to harvest, storage, and pests and diseases.") but also runs a web site selling seeds (blurb from the web site: "...offering one of the widest choices of British grown seed potatoes, second cropping potatoes and potato microplants available anywhere in the UK"). The web site can be found at ...
Hope the site comes in useful for some of you looking to harvest tasty "Christmas Potatoes".
Right - off to clean some spuds for my tea!
Morag
Hi Chris
I have enjoyed reading your blogs, you are certainly an insightful chap! I have recently relocated to the US so I have been making good use of the online radio service to listen to your show. Keep up the good work, and the great blogs
Josie
xxoo
Hi Chris,
Great blog today although am sorry your friend has a broken heart - but he is lucky to have friends such as yourself to help him through. Have made a habit of reading the days blog when I get through the door at night - it is a perfect way to relax and have a chuckle after a days work (after listening to the show on the way home in the car of course - which is fab by the way! Love "Kid with a Fanfare"!!) The potato growing in a tyre/bin in time for for Christmas has intrigued me - might have to give them a go even though the only thing I have managed to grow successfully in the past is my hair!! Keep up the good work - hope you enjoyed the salmon! Am now off to my "hill"
LJ xxx :-)
Hi Chris
Its taken me a while, but I just wanted to say how much my hubby (Ray) and I love your evening show - and we are telling everyone we know to listen to it, we come away every night having learnt something new !
The item about superfoods was excellent - went out and bought prunes immediately, and now eating 5 a day (recommended daily intake !).
Ray and I had the pleasure of being in your company 6 1/2 years ago - (I was one of the finalists when you gave away 1 million pound on your radio show !) Needless to say I didn't win, but Ray and I both felt richer for having met you. Your outlook on life and the genuine care you show for people never fails to shine through. So glad things are now working out for you, keep up the good work and the blogs !
Tess and Ray
xx
Hi Chris,
Good blog today.
People often forget to "be happy", they can't even remember how to be happy a lot of the time because they become absorbed in all the other stuff around them.
It is important to make time and space for one's self. My 'hill' is my bath, hot and long, it's where I regain the perspective I know I've lost during the day.
I can't imagine you get time to read all the blog posts each day but if you happen by this one, make a note of a great book by Richard Carlson called "Stop thinking, Start living", it's all about taking control of one's thoughts and thinking happy.
Would make a great show/guest topic.
Cheers mate, Paul S.
Ok, i have to admit, the woman who was on the show today talking about shoes!.. My god, she had a voice that made me melt !!...
She can talk me to sleep anytime!... i wouldn't care what she was talking about, just talk to me baybee !! ;)
Cracking show as ever, I'm going to miss it tomorrow cos i'm off to Chelmsford in Essex.. try not to miss me too much LOL !!
Markie :)
unbelievable!!!blogs are great ...still dont know what it means.i've spent the last 2 yrs wondering on and off my hill,i spose it is meditating really,somehow stopping the hidious flow of thoughts that bombard your mind,take back control of your mind,getting a sense of balance,experience whats really there not what you think .'dont pretend be...'im not good at typing nor do i enjoy reading but this is something i will make time for.show is the best dont ever stop chris and team now a bit of my hill and no doubt lots of others too THANKS lots love mx
Just read your blog for the first time (wow!) and realised that I've spent the whole day looking for my 'hill'. I found it where I thought it would be, Winchester Cathedral - peaceful, calm and, for an hour at least, no cares in the world.
Thank you.
Fi xx
Chris.
You have given me a lot to think about. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
You make my life brighter!
Zena x
My hill is the xbox, it used to be my bike but after breaking both my legs falling off it last year, my wife and children aren't too happy for me to do that again.
Reading the blog and listening again to the show, so really shlogging it out.
Back to the hill (xbox), you can't beat it, lose yourself in the violence of shooting the kids (metaphorically) (well my son is 12 so beating him is a little hard now) or racing down the street in a turbo charged Pug 106 that kicks out 300bhp. When you crash it doesn't hurt either. Sorry ladies, bit of a boy reply, will try the lovey dovey thing next time.
Didn't think I would like the show Chris, but find I look forward to it now.
Garry
P.S can't agree with the comment about the shoe womans voice, had to fast forward that bit as she was doing my head in!
PPS why use PSs and PPSs in electronic formats, you can just slip something you forgot into the appropriate place?
Been given a great piece of advice recently
"Don't be sad because it is over - be happy that is happened"
Pass this on and hopefully we can get this world to be a much happier place to live.
Oh you are so right. Did not have time to read everything because I am running my bath! My bath is so sacred - my ten minutes to one hour of ME time! All of us work too hard for so many reasons, but we must all learn to take time for ourselves - most important. Chris, I was never a great fan of yours until I heard your Desert Island Discs (does that age me! only your age though) and put you up in my estimation. Well done you for over comeing lots of things in your life and just getting on with it. Like many others I thought I would have to find another radio station for the journey home from work (and believe me in the west counry we are not spoilt for choice - ohh, they'll get everyone going!) but it has turned out to be a great show and Fridays are wonderful, especially if I am stuck on the motorway on my way off for a weekend. All best wishes to you, Al.
You lovely happy wize man.
Chris, I'm new to blogging, but here goes! I think my 'hill' changes often. At the moment I can honestly say I'm on my hill when driving home & listening to the show! Even after the worst kind of day you & the team really cheer me up & make me feel HAPPY! I'm not a sports fan but even i want to know who's in the 'locker cocker!!!!!'
keep it up, can't wait 4 all request Friday!!
Sandra from Cannock (but Ramsbottom born & bred!!!!) xx
As I am writing this I am number 160.
Apart from one post about someone having black shoes (wrong site maybe?) every single comment about your blogs is saying how good they are and how much people like your thoughts.
I read them all tonight and I agree - they are all inspirational. Do you ever get any replies which say anything different? Is there anyone who doesn't think you are a deep and wise person?
A few years ago no-one would have suspected they would be listening to you on Radio 2 and reading personal, meaningful and exceptionally thoughtful daily blogs written by you. I know you are a very strong and resourceful person and have been made more-so with the much publicised highs and lows of your life. You seem to have come out the other side not only in a better place but as a happier person. I hope this is the case and I wish you continued happiness.
I will follow your daily blogs with interest and I hope that you really are as happy as you say. The problem with the written word is that it can mean what the reader wants it to mean. No-one can know how you are saying what you say as it comes over in writing. Each person reads it as they feel and there is no guarantee that this is how it is created.
I hope you are as fulfilled and as excited about life as you say you are. Keep me posted. ;)
I got bleach on the front of my brand new Levis today. I need perspective. I know it doesn't matter in the big scheme of things. My six year old son said "they're just jeans, mum". How right he is. I need that sauna, bath or that book and bench!!
Thanks Chris, always listening. x
Hey Chris -
you sound like a lovely, sweet friend to your broken hearted mate. love to him. It does get better. Tell him to have a good sob, if he can. It gets rid of alot of the pent up hurt inside.
Very touched by your words this morning.
I'm managing to find my hill - being on a beach, beachcombing and just completely losing myself in myself and my search. I love it. My hill is my sanctuary, both for me physically and for my soul.
Other small 'hillocks' needed through the day too - looking over a lovely landscape, a cup of tea in the quiet of the morning, a beautiful sky, my smallest cat sleeping on my stomach, oh and lets not forget a favourite song. (thanks for playing 'Will You' by Hazel O'Conner tonight - that sax phone gets me inside every time.)Everyone needs to search for these things but once you start seeing them, it doesn't stop.
Life is grand, and getting better all the time.
I'm off around the Edinburgh festival and off to my favourite places in the city over the next couple of weeks, so will definitely be climbing more of my special hills. Will report on any good stuff I see.
Nitey nite - Susie xx
I worked in a bank and hated it but there I was every day chained to my desk - working thru lunch, working late! From somewhere I got the courage to leave the boring security and now I work with people with learning diffiulties. I work hard every shift and I love it. I love my days off.
I've never enjoyed a job so much yet at the same time never looked forward to time off so much. I bake bread because I can now!!
Chris you are soooo right.
Hi People,
Someone mentioned that she was wondering where the word Blog comes from. My IT minded husband tells me that it comes from 'Web Log', which is a bit like a Sea Captins Log. You record your thoughts and thats about it. So, Web-Log is Blog.
Hope it puts your minds at rest!!
Jenny xx
I'm a virgin to Blogging too, first time. Fasinating - it's really good to read your thoughts as well as hear them on the radio.
My 'me' time is on the way home too, on my relaxing drive home listening to your (I really didn't think I would ever be saying this) really great show!! I think you have really settled into
your show, you feel relaxed and you enjoy it, you can tell, it really is fab.
Question: whatever happened to that bench you got everyone who was a guest on your show to sign on your friday night show many moons ago?
Luv you and the show, pass the bucket!
Borticle x x
Chris,
Great Blog, so much so that it has inspired my wife and her friend to start a blog themselves. That's the great thing about blogs, everyone can have one!
Have a look at mumsneedwine.blogspot.com
T
Thank you Chris - a profound blog today. It's timely for me and perhaps other teachers as they begin to plan and prepare for the new term during the next few weeks. Although we are all positve and excited to plan stimulating activities and look forward to meeting new bright and curious minds, there is always that slight sense of foreboding about the work load and how much it can impinge on our personal space and relationships. Each time we swear to ouselves that it won't get the better of us but often it does.
Anyway my 'hills' are worship in Church, bike riding and a new one which is playing with my daughter's new rabbit - I think I benefit more form it than her!!
Cheers for your thoughts
Peter
Message - 107
Sarah....
You're not alone! I think way too much :-) I've got better with age but I distinctly remember thoughts from when I was a kid, that most normal thinking kids wouldn't have.
I remember getting myself into a right pickle when I first started primary school over whether I needed to take a pencil case or whether the school would provide pencils on the table.....I mean, what was I thinking? Secondary school, amongst many things, I got myself in a state over my French exam. The Doctor gave me a beta blocker to calm my nerves, it relaxed me so much that I went like a floppy rag doll and couldn't stop laughing. The teacher asked me to say "I love apples" in French, I remember saying something like, "J'taime le pommes".....which vaguley translates as "I love you, apples"....:-))
So anyways, pretty insignificant stuff on reflection but the method of my thinking back then was to think "what if this happens, what if that happens"....
These days, I still think too much but it's not about fluffy pencil cases, it's about whether I am doing the right job, where am I heading etc.
But I can switch off now - somthing that age and experience brings - perhaps. A walk in the fields with my dogs, an hour in Green Park in my lunch hour.....they're my hills. That, and of course, music.....
YAY YAY my first blog on here.
Hi chris and the team i love your show. I come out of work bout 1710 and get in about 1800. I have to go on errands on thee way home but i find myself siting in the car listening to The interview bit at about 1725 and the buisness news. oh and i love listneing to sally traffic to see if she mentions the m62 and m57 and arounnd the northwest area. (SAD I KNOW) I've been listening to radio2 for over 12 months know. I'm onl 26 and all my friends think i' old before my years. but i love catcing it of a nightitme cos you hear music you would'nt nmoramllly catch or listen to. plus i lsiten to the showtime tune at 0715 every morning while getting a shower. But what i really love is lsitening to you all on friday night with the all reqeust and what the other lsitwers are getting up to at the weekend. also cos i know it s the weekend and with a tinge of sadness no chris and the team for 2 days. ANy how i love the show and radio 2 its the best staiton around with the variety and the events it brings to us. CHRIS i've been a fan of your since your Big breakfast days. ANYHOW THE QUESTION IS.......
what was the name of that book that the lady was tlaking about in regards to shoes on thursdays show and has the guy got a website who was on on tuesday and wednesday talkng about what types of food you shoulkd eat and why they were healthy.
many thanks BLOG TO YOU SOON
DAVID.
Great blog Chris, very sharp for 6am!! I was still zzz'ing away... which bring me onto my hill - freshly laundered sheets, nice new pj's and a notebook and pen, bliss.
I came across my Bryan Adams, "Room Service" CD today - great songs to sing along to and lift the spirits (he's fantastic live too!)
I hope it's not too long before your friend can enjoy his hill again Chris.
My snuggle socks have found there way out of the drawer again - summer's officially over, must remember and bleed the radiator's before the big freeze!!
Very Inspiring Schlog Chris, thanks.
Angie.
Zeitgeist!
I reckon a lot of us (of M. Evans' age group) recognise everything in this blog. We tailend-boomers got caught up in the jetstream of the 60s, sloshed round the engine of the 70s, and were then sucked straight into the backwash of the 80s - and loved every minute of it.
We had the energy and we had the youth to keep it going for a good long while. We eventually learnt that candles only burn one way after all, and that the quiet is as good as the loud. You could say (please don't cringe toooooooo much) we can still party like its 1999, but we now choose when....and when we do, wey hey!!!!!!! its quality now and no longer just quantity.
Hill - excellent, can we re-use it???
Hi Chris (and bloggers),
Just blogged on for the first time; inspired to stick my oar in by your fantastic post this morning.
Have to admit I missed the show tonight but I've just been "listening again" [@163: There's a hint for tomorrow for you Markie ;) ]. Another quality shlog under your belt - congrats to you and the gang.
On the blog: You're right on the money there. The only person responsible for your happiness is you. It's all too easy to get into the blame mentality and think the world's against you, and it takes a concious effort to break free -- but no-one else can do it for you, and you have to make time to remind yourself of who you are.
So far as your friend is concerned; be a friend for him (as you obviously are) and listen to him, but try and help him down the path of recovery. I've been enjoying Sincronicity on ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ3 lately and a couple of shows ago the Spanish girl came up with the line, "There is no bad from which good does not come," and it's fundamentally true (OK, you can always take issue with these axioms if you try hard enough). 12 months ago my wife had just left me and I was, frankly, in of a bit of a state. But when I finally managed to stop feeling sorry for myself and get my finger out I met the most wonderful woman (speed dating rocks!), and now I'm happier than I've ever been - even my soon-to-be-ex and I are getting along better. As my dad is fond of telling me, "Everything is for the best in this, the best of all possible worlds."
On shoes: I completely get it. I like shoes, although I rarely find shoes I like (go figure). The same jeans and shirt come across completely differently depending on whether you wear trainers, brogues or sandals and socks -- and as a result, you'll feel different too. In a way I'm quite jealous of women's freedom of choice in this respect (same goes for clothes, but I'd best keep quiet on that score; and don't tell that nice Mr. Walker either). In a recent wardrobe clearout I discovered I have 17 pairs of shoes - I guess I'm just deeply in touch with my feminine side :D.
@182: David, you're looking for
Sorry, seem to have prattled on a bit. Keep up the good work.
Hugs to all,
Jez.X
"You do the Hasselback. You do the Hasselback. If you don't know how to do it then you're out of whack"!
PS: Look out for the links in this post, they may not be very obvious ;)
I found my wee hill this evening, and I'd almost forgotten that's what it was!
Me and my partner moved house in January and now have our own garden for the first time, having lived in a flat for ages. So we dug into the uncultivated barren ("easily maintained") desert of a garden, and put in loads of compost and topsoil etc for flower beds, fruit bushes and the rest last winter/spring and planted loads of stuff (you can probably already tell that I'm the assistant gardner!)
Well after the warm summer, everything has come up and the tranformation is fabulous.
This evening in the garden I read Bryson's History of Nearly Everything with a cup of mint tea (home grown!) then plugged in the iPod and listened to The Ramones. Fantastic! Youth revisited; then I realised it's nothing being revisited - it's here now, and I love it!
Thanks Chris - and if you get the chance, play some Ramones on my way home from work. Rockaway Beach - that'll get the weekend going!!!
Hiya Chris ,
This is the 1st time i've read the blogs, i've been hearing about them on yr show 4 ages but have never got round 2 it. I was gonna read them yesterday but me being slightly blonde couldn't find them!! well i have now and i'm enjoying reading them and peeps comments.
The bit about you time was good theres nothing like having a bit you time my fave me time is a large bubble bath and some relaxing music or a good book and i stay there till i start going prune like or the water gets cold (whichever happens 1st) you probably didn't wanna know all that but it's too late!! :o)
keep up the good work with the show it's the dogs!!
Chez x
Christophe
As a fan of your R1 days all i have to say is "Top show fella" loved your Saturday show but this is superb. Anyway enough of that intrigued about your walking, as someone who this summer is walking 2.5 to work and back home, just wondering if we should champion a "get Britain walking" campaign, you would be a superb ambassador. I just think in this day of Gyms and life being paced at 100mph we should like you and my good self get britain to take time, slow down, appreciate life, but exercise as well, i know i get more out of life since i started walking and it beats going to a pretentious gym anyday
Morning Chris
Late on parade from yesterday's blog I am afraid.
Hope your mate soon finds their way out of the sadness.
A little while agao there was one of those virral emails about taking time out.
It came back to me whilst reading your blog so sitting here now listening to the rain on the dustbin outside I just hope you all take time to "Run in the Rain!"
Here's to a riproraring Friday :)
To Linda (#172) - sorry for my comment about black shoes appearing to be so random. The shoe psychologist lady on Chris's show yesterday (whose voice Mark likes so much) was saying how the style and colour of a shoe can tell you about the wearer's personality and mood.
To Jez (#184) - great to hear you're happy again. Maybe your story and those of others posted today will give hope and inspiration to Chris's friend, although the whole dating thing's a way off for him just now, I'm sure.
Intrigued by the speed dating thing. Terrific concept but not so successful when I tried it. The average age of the ladies was 30s, while the average age of the chaps was late 50s/early 60s. I'm unconvinced that every lady was seeking a sugar daddy and every chap a toygirl! Tried the internet dating and personal ads stuff too - more of a let down than speed dating and really gives you no idea about a person before you meet them (at least speed dating is a safe way to do the meeting thing).
Great show as always, Chris & team. Keep up the good work.
Hi Chris
Really enjoying the shlog. This is the first time I have ever contributed to a blog - I'm excited and nervous all at the same time! Anyway, wanted to write and say you have kept me entertained through the dull hours at work and cheered me up on my way home.
It is my last day at work today as I am giving up the nine to five sales job to be a secondary school science teacher. Can't wait.
Hope you can play a song for me and all the other new trainee teachers who will be back in school for the first time in September.
Keep up the good work. Love the show.
Clare xx
Just reading yesterday's posting Chris - that's really thought provoking. So much so, you've moved me to tears! Must be going soft in my old age....And a great start to a Friday off, snivelling into my coffee!
Anyway, will take your advice to heart - off to the North York Moors this weekend, so I shall find a hill to climb.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us all.
Very good. Like this blog entry a lot. I think the 'top of my hill' has got to be when I'm back at home and sat on a bench at the top of the promenade looking at the beach and the rocks. It's not often I get to go back there, but it reminds me of a time in my life when I was really happy, I didn't have the stresses of life I have now, and it reminds me of my Grandad bless his soul, throwing the ball for Pepe and him running down the grassy bank to the beach to fetch it. Good ole days - I must make more of an effort to get there more often...
xx
Brady!!!? I have been searching for your comments but cannot seem to find them...?
Where are you?
Marcus x
If you don't want the phone to ring, simple, turn the ringer off. The answer maachine will still pick but you can finish the book, film, bath or whatever in another room.
Hi Chris
I just been typing for over 15 mins, and hit some bloody key and lost the lot!
Anyway love the show, like the new you, you have inspired me to have bigger days and go to bed knacked.
My hill is on a bike, did 50 miles today with a mate in the pouring rain, started off with a puncture and finished off with a puncture at (49th mile). Made my mate humus/pine kernels/pitta bread awesome!
Packed in golf 4 weeks ago, played for over 35 years, time for a change. Having a love affair with bike, rode to work last week 50 mile round trip. Bloody fell off twice. Spectacular falls, one somersault on to my back back, got my front wheel stuck in some tram tracks in salford and coming home, got the same front wheel stuck in a grid, another sideways someersault nutted the pavement with my helmet (life saver) and buckled my front wheel, cost me £45 repair. I thought riding to work was saving money
Great blogs Chris, keeping chipping away at your masterpiece, its looks great from where I'm sitting!
Have great hols!
Luv Tony Taylor
Very nice post. wise words and cooking tips? What else is there.
First time reader and poster, and I'll definitely be back.
I am soooooo sorry but i am using you blog to vent my spleen.I have th inlaws here (they go back tomorrow) they have done bu.... all to help all weekend and done nothing but mone about everything .Ihad to either kick the cat or write it here (and i love my cat too much).You marry the man NOT hid family.LOVE THE SHOW.
Perfect!
That's good.
Print it out, put it with the other clippings in the 'build your own self help book'
Sweet
Autographs
Just a quick 'un, I have Chuck Yeager, yuri Gagarin, Neil Armstron, Buzz Aldrin, Alan Bean, Charlie Duke, Eugene Cernan, Bernard Harris, Helan Sharman and a host of other space people
Also
Douglas Barder and Adolf Galland
I know other people will have more, but i collect them for the love of Spaceflight...
Love the show Chris
well done...
martin