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The Easter Beach

Comments

1. At 08:44 AM on 08 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

   Fairtrade Easter eggs in minimal packaging next to the lovely Fairtrade Java coffee on the bar - fruit and a selection of teas for those without a sweet tooth.

   Happy Easter.

2. At 08:58 AM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

   Happy Easter to one and all. I'm back after a trip to see the folks (see the flickering place for details...) and have Hotel Chocolat eggs to share with all beach visitors today:-) They're stacked up on the bar, along with coffee, tea, other hot & cold beverages, and also the fixings for making all sorts of breakfasts. I feel I've neglected my froggy friends (as well as our native camels) the last few weeks, so I'm trying to make up for it today, on a rare chance to sit down and relax with you all. So, tuck in and enjoy!

   FFred

3. At 10:04 AM on 08 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

   Mmmmm....chocolate eggs for breafast! Thank you very much. I've brought along a simnel cake for elevenses. There is a fluffy chicken perched on top it - please give it to Fifi when you see her.
   Happy Easter to you all.

4. At 10:26 AM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

   Whata lovely surprise. An Easter beach delivered at 5.28 AM. Hope you all have a lovely day - weather is stunning down here on the south coast, may even have a paddle later on. Happy Easter everyone.

5. At 10:38 AM on 08 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

   Happy Easter, froggers and bunnies everywhere!

   Big crate of assorted chocolate (eggs and otherwise)

6. At 10:48 AM on 08 Apr 2007, eddie mair wrote:

   Happy Easter! This weather is spectacular isn't it?

7. At 10:48 AM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

   Gillian.... me too!! Actually after 6 weeks without I thought it would be unbelievable to eat chocolate but well, it was a bit of an anticlimax
   :-/

   But Gillian that Simnel cake looks lovely!!

   And lovely breakfast Ffred...although we need to keep an eye on the camels - I'm sure they were eyeing up your Hotel Chocolat Eggs just now - they claimed they were just practising a Can-can but the line was definitely heading towards the bar...

8. At 10:54 AM on 08 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

   Ooh, Eddie! Lovely to see you in this beautiful sunshine!

9. At 11:55 AM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

   It's true what someone said recently about chocolate and spots.

   I have two largish spots on my face, my fault for eating a whole white chocolate Easter egg a couple of days back :-(

10. At 12:14 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Toby wrote:

    Fantastic day for it, eh?

    Shame to be stuck writing a colossal dissertation, but hope you all enjoy it.

    Oh, and, no chocolate, but mackerel to follow - i lament my shortsighted organisational skills sometimes!

11. At 12:29 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Baron Nikoli Nikolievitch Illya Snovstroski von Flanfeir-Llewelyn Sri Nisht Nasht Nosht de la Champignon Chalmondey St John Noodle.

    Happy Easter! I believe that this year the Orthodox Easter falls on the same day as the Western Church, so you will be celebrating with us. However, in honour of your Russian roots, I've left a Faberge egg for you concealed behind the dunes. The challenge for you will be to find it before the camels do .......

    Happy Easter, Nikki Noodle!

12. At 12:32 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

    aaargh, got caught out again - been swimming on the wrong beach for hours! Shame, all those lovely treats I left on the bar got washed away.

    Still, more than made up for by the sight of Eric in his swimming gear :-)
    Happy Easter!

    ps mmmm.... chocolate.......

13. At 12:41 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Morning Eddie, nice speedos!

    (Didn't know they did Easter ones!)

    I wonder if Sequin will pay us a visit? There's a special sparkly sun lounger for her over there!

    
    

14. At 12:52 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Don't worry, GM. I bought extra eggs for the camels to have :-)

15. At 01:09 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

    I'm about to head off into the sunset (well, the A1(M) to be honest). Feeling a bit, well, you know :-/

    Might just have a small slice of this delicious simnel cake before I go. And try to focus on lovely prospect of being spoiled by parents.

    Hope you all have a lovely day, and enjoy whatever (if any) days off you get. If you want to know how last night went, you'll have to nip to the other beach I'm afraid. But I saw our host this monring, who was at pains to point out that non-date-man is really very nice, just a bit reserved, and you don't get to see the best of him til you really get to know him. Hmm... I don't know what I want, let's be honest!!

    Now even I'm smiling (that came out "sliming" the first time I tried it?!)

    Anna x

16. At 01:15 PM on 08 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    Happy Easter everyone. Very generous of you to share your Hotel Chocolat eggs with everyone FFred. Husband and I have one and we're not sharing it with anyone apart from each other. But it is the only one we have. Son No 2 has been bowled over by HUGE egg with mini eggs.

    Just back from Church (Easter Communion plus a baptism) so a long service and a late lunch. I hope when I come back this afternoon there will be some of that delicious looking simnel cake left to have with a cup of tea. Thanks Gillian.

    Just off now to check results of Malaysian GP, my devotion doesn't spread to getting up at the crack of dawn to watch it live,

17. At 01:19 PM on 08 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    oh yes!! A McLaren 1-2 in Malaysia. Joy!

18. At 01:25 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    The ill-advised shorts proved ill-advised after all. I am now more modestly attired, and looking forward to my dilemma for today:

    Do I rein myself in and then this evening drive up to Grantham for the folk club?

    Or do I let it all hang out and drink shiraz in the sunshine here instead?

    All -- vote -- cheers!

    (Ooops)

    Fifi ;o)

19. At 01:27 PM on 08 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    sorry for posting three times in a row, but I just remembered I wanted to alert the ladies, incase any of them didn't know, that the delectable Mr Armitage will be appearing on TV again this evening. ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ1 at 9 o' clock.ANd, although it doen't add anything for me, he's a biker so will be dressed in black leather.

    Now who says the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ never gives it's female audience a treat at holiday time?!

20. At 01:34 PM on 08 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Easter Greetings!

    What a lot of chocolate!! Only on this beach could we all enjoy leaving such generous and colourful gifts and treats lying around in the sun with no fear of squidginess and goo!

    Big Sis - many thanks! I love a challenge...I shall go a-hunting directly! Well, prap's after I pour just one more tiny glassful...

    ahhhhhhhh!

    n-n
    xx

21. At 02:10 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Oh and there was me thinking admin annie was visiting her Malaysian Doctor :-(

    I missed Eddie in his speedo's -- what was it that made them specififically for Easter? Did they have little egg logo's all over them ?

22. At 02:28 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Oh go on - crack open the bottle Fifi :-)

23. At 02:32 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Anna (15) I'm sorry I wasn't around last week to offer moral support for the B-D. As others here can attest, I have some idea what it's like. I hope it all goes how you want it to :-)

    Phew, it's warming up a bit, isn't it! I might even change into the shorts and go for a paddle a bit later on. Can someone put this bottle of Bourgoine behind the bar for later? Ta!

24. At 03:00 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    AnnaR: Caught your posting on the old Beach. Sounds as though the evening went quite well. You ask how to take it forward (in the absence of him taking the initiative) - in your shoes, I'd give him a couple of days (don't let him think you're desperate - we know you're not, but men can be rather vain!) and if he's not got back in touch with you and you're sure you'd like to have a second look, you could contact him and suggest you meet up for a drink as you'll be 'in his neighbourhood', or whatever excuse seems appropriate. Nothing heavy, mind, and certainly on neutral territory.

    Sometimes, you know, men are themselves a bit unsure of what to do, and a small nudge can be helpful.

    However, I'd definitely give it a couple of days at least.

    Good luck whatever you decide and whatever the outcome!

25. At 03:04 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Jonnie (21) me too! Wondered why she seemed so excited about her doctor!

    Re the easter item, well you know the sort of thing, bunnies, eggs......

    Admin Annie - the video is set!!! (yum!)

26. At 03:13 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    PS Jonnie (9) try a blob of toothpaste on each!

27. At 03:16 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Ffred and Anna, there's hope for you yet. Spring has sprung, the sun is out, the world's looking good. Get out there - put yourselves about a bit (in a nice way!) and grab it while you can. You're both gorgeous people, and whatever you want, it's out there waiting for you.
    

28. At 03:21 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Humph wrote:

    Fearless (2) Can I just say that I do not feel that you have neglected us by your recent adventures. It is good to have you back in Frogdom, though; welcome back. Happy Easter Froggers.

    H.

29. At 03:22 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Otter wrote:

    Dear Froggers & the PM team,

    A very Happy Easter

    Otter

30. At 03:39 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Happy Easter everyone!

    FF forget the folk club, open a bottle in the sunshine!

    Mary

31. At 03:45 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    I've been very good: up the garden hacking all the dead bits out of a lavender tree and badly overgrown forsythia. Rather than slurping shiraz, which I'm about to do now.

    Actually, I need a sit-down. My thumb had a rather scary incident with a pruning saw earlier. All bandaged up now, which of course looks far worse than it feels!

    Is red wine better for cuts, or is ice cold lager? Hmm, perhaps a little of both.......

    Fifi

32. At 03:57 PM on 08 Apr 2007, The New Blog Prince aka Marc wrote:

    A happy easter to one and all.

    Good to see you're all behaving and playing nicely.

    I too thought Nikki Noodle was a lady Nikki. Shows what i know... ;-)

33. At 04:11 PM on 08 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    jonnie you know full well that you did NOT think I was off to see my malaysian doctor! since my interest in F1 is known to all on the frog. However you have reminded me that I do have to go and see my GP ( not malaysian) on Friday to get a repeat blod test done. It's not for anything serious but I was trying not to think about it over the holiday.

34. At 04:29 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Madmary, great to see you at last! Hope it's nice things that have kept you from frogging of late.

    Admin Annie, here, let me pour you a large glass of Instant Amnesia. I too have things to forget over the break. ;o)

    Fifi

35. At 04:31 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Fifi (31) orally or topically?! I'm sure both will be beneficial :-0)

    When we were camping a few years ago, my nephew got bitten by a dog and I (now infamously) dabbed petrol on it by mistake. Well if they will keep their lamp petrol and water in similar flasks.. and it was dark, but they've never let me forget it!
    (The wound healed fine!!)

    Have just had a pudding disaster (meal for 8 tonight). Tried to double up baked cheesecake recipe and the outside burnt with middle still raw Aaarrgh! So have just had to swallow all my pride and run to T***o M***o to buy cream and raspberries to make Eton Mess. Which meant making meringues (some may remember my previous attempts at contaminated meringues?!)

    Anyway, all seems to be well & the bubbly's in the chiller!

    Anna - It at least sounds promising! I guess I would wait & see if he does anything about it. I'm full of admiration - it took me 4 years to go on another date!!

36. At 04:52 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Thanks for that Fifi. I do post occasionally and try to keep up daily but generally I've been either busy or exhausted!

    Gossipmistress I could have given you a brilliant recipe for cheesecake (not baked) but too late!

    Mmm maybe I'll make it tomorrow.

    Mary

37. At 05:15 PM on 08 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    Thanks fifi, although I can't remember what I'm thaning you for....( :- ), ha ha.)

    If worst comes to worst G/M you could just do raspberries and cream; or if you had a good vanilla ice cream in the freezer, raspberries ice cream and chocolate sauce.

    aanyway hope all gopes well with no more mini disasters.

38. At 06:12 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Admin Annie (37) : Typos are such fun aren't they? I'm trying to decide whether you meant 'hope all goes well' or 'hope all gropes well' ... hey ho!

    You will all be pleased to know that I decided in favour of the shiraz not the folk club .. but I have been inspired by today's Countryfile to attempt to start a folk club on a train.

    The fact that our bass player is mad about trains is less a factor than that Thomas the Tank Engine and the Nene Valley Railway are nearby.

    Now look. I left my last lunchtime sausage on the bar earlier, knowing it would be lovely cold. And someone has pinched it.

    Lady Cammelia, was it you? We all know what you're like.....!

    Fifi

39. At 06:35 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

    Happy Easter, all my fellow froggers. Sorry I haven't been around of late, although I have tried to drop in from time to time. But things have been too hectic and I've been much too exhausted - as I am now, having just done a lamb roast (with five veggies and roast potatoes) for nine of us. And then I ate a little choccy eggy and now I wish I hadn't.

    How lovely to see Eddie and Marc on the beach this beautiful Easter day! But here in Shroppy the sun has gone in and it's not looking quite so promising now.

    Glad to see MadMary back. I don't feel Ffred has been neglecting us at all - you are all brilliant at keeping in touch.

    Better go and catch up with the olds for a mo - they keep asking where everyone is. I've sloped off up here for a bit of peace, but it doesn't last long!

40. At 06:53 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    "That camel's pinched my sausage!"

    There. I've said it.

    Grrrrr!

    Fifi

41. At 07:01 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Ffred, thanks for putting your photos in the flickery place. How can we feel neglected when you do nice things like that? You always remember what nosey people some of us are ;o)
    I speak as one who likes to snoop!

42. At 07:01 PM on 08 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    ....phew...I think I'll be red all down one side in the morning. I hope the beach is hot and sunny again tomorrow, then I can do the other side....

    Did someone put out some samosas or have I just eaten a flannel?!

    And I'm going to take note of GM's implicit warning, and stop putting my suntan lotion into this old Bailey's bottle...

    Anyone up for a sing-song round the fire?

    n-n
    xx

43. At 07:07 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Nikki - I'm always up for a sing-song. Guitar is primed 9though not tuned) and I've brought lots of spare kazoos, tambourines and drum-type things for anyone else who feels like joining in.

    What shall we start with?

    Fifi

44. At 07:14 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    It's lovely to be on the beach early enough to follow the chat.

    I'm cooking some nice beef and yorkshire pudding with five veg (copying Sara). I'll leave the cold cuts on the bar for later.

    Oh and I've some chilled dry Reisling to share out.

    Mary

45. At 07:23 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Nikki Noodle (40) Oh I could write a sonnet
    About your Easter bonnet.......
    Tra-la-la-la-la-la
    At the Easter Parade

    Anne P's is a lovely Carmen Miranda
    creation....very imaginative, the way those raspberries have been displayed
    G/m's has a cute array of broken eggshells around the brim of hers
    Fifi has a clever arrangement of cold sausages which tie under her chin
    Jonnie's is a fetching boater, trimmed with polka dot ribbon
    Nikki Noodle....that is sheer showmanship, and goes against the spirit of the day. Faberge indeed!

46. At 07:24 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    I know.

    "Always listen between five and six....."

    Fifi ;o)

47. At 07:28 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Madmary (44) Thanks for the yorkshire pudding....it fits a treat and looks lovely now I've decorated it with Fifis forsythia.

48. At 07:42 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Gillian - can you use some nettles and thistles as well?

    Fifi

49. At 08:06 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Erm Gossipmistress I'd stay out of the sun if you're going to wear the pudding. It was actually meant for ... oh well it's gone to a good cause.

    I'm busy making my easter bonnet out of all those cables and wires that form a spaghetti junction in my living room.

    Mary

50. At 08:36 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Frances O wrote:

    Happy Easter, everyone!

    What a fine beach this is.

51. At 09:30 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

    How is the froggers song coming along, btw? Have other froggers added to Fifi's and Ed's rendition yet and if so, can we hear it anywhere? And what's the news on Eric Idle? - I think it was Gillian (or maybe it was Big Sis) who said they might be able to write to his publicist.

    Sorry - you may all be more up to date on this than me, since I've not been around so much.

    Thanks for the lovely photos, Ffred. It's great to keep up with where people go and how they see places.

52. At 10:29 PM on 08 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Sorry I'm very late calling into the beach, but we have visitors & it has been all go. Also doing a car boot tomorrow so it's been packing today, in order to unpack at 6 am tomorrow, hopefully NOT bringing it home with us again at midday!

    Hope you all had a good day. We had a lovely roast lamb dinner with our friends. Daughter with cough had me up at 4 am today. Coughing again tonight already. Hmmm, should I give her whisky now or wait till 4 am tomorrow...? Or have the whisky myself so she doesn't keep me awake?

    Happy Easter All. See you tomorrow.

53. At 11:06 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

    Well that's been a wildly bizarre Easter Sunday! SO was keen to go to a "not-lecture, more of a presentation" about James Clerk Maxwell (right up his street) in his (JCM's) very own erstwhile home. Well, I need some brownie points for a very special outing in a couple of months, so we went along and I discovered that I actually remembered some of the equations I helped him learn 30-odd years ago when i was trying not to be a distraction from his Finals! Very different, and also, even more surprisingly, it included music from the Edinburgh String Quartet. So there you go, you never know what you'll get up to do you?
    Even better, after, we went for a curry at a restaurant we used to frequent when it was a cafe all those years ago. Took great delight in telling Mine Host (who was one of twin toddlers in those days) that we used to pay 37p for Lamb Bhuna and 13p for rice, but tonight it cost ?37!. He smiled and said, " ah, but how much does a flat cost you these days?" Right enough, in those days we bought our first flat round the corner from said caff, for ?2,000.
    Anyways, I was right in forecasting a lack of easter eggs at Val P Towers, so I'm thinking I may take this opportunity to give up chocolate for post-Lent (how long do you give me?).

54. At 11:22 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

    Annasee - both have the whisky ;o)

55. At 11:36 PM on 08 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Sara: I know nothing of Eric Idle or his publicist :o( - and as for Nikki Noodle, that's the last time I hide a faberge egg for him when he confuses innocent froggers with his Bailey's bottle.

    And just what factor is it that I've been drinking all afternoon, NN?

56. At 12:36 AM on 09 Apr 2007, Humph wrote:

    Annasee (52) An English (non-)Nursary Rhyme:

    Mary had a little lamb
    The lamb it got the collic
    She gave it a spoonful of whisky a day
    And now it's alcoholic

    When it comes to alcohol for medicinal purposes the giver, if an adult, is usually better off taking it than the receiver.

    Can I just take this opportunity to add my voice to that of other Froggers to say "Please do not go"? If you happen to find yourself living in Oz then you will have my jealosy. If you no longer take part in the Frog, then the Frog will all worse off for that! This posting will appear to be written at about mid-day, Oz time! The Frog never sleeps. Please do not go!

    H.

57. At 08:35 AM on 09 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    NN (42) talking of mixing up bottles, many years ago, before standardised containers came in, I heard of a woman taking a specimen to her doctor, travelling on the bus. It was in Scotland, near Christmas, and the only container she had was an empty Scotch bottle. When she arrived at the surgery, the bottle had gone from her basket!

58. At 09:55 AM on 09 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Morning All!

    Thank you all for the pudding suggestions - in the end, the cheesecake was in fact edible, so we ended up with (and still have) mountains of pudding! I'll leave some on the bar - raspberries, strawberries, Eton Mess, cheesecake & fruit coulis. Nice with fresh coffee for elevenses!!

    I'm off walking so I'll see you later - maybe I'll take my bonnet with me Gillian!

59. At 10:28 AM on 09 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Woke up with an odd hangover feeling and a strangely tanned look to my skin. Could it be that sunscreen works from the inside out? ;o)

60. At 11:00 AM on 09 Apr 2007, Aunt Dahlia wrote:

    Quick, quick, first connection from b*oody BT Broadband for days, so happy easter all, she didn't eat the sausage I did and one dark and stormy night I had a nasty cough, got up and went to bathroom cabinet seeking Ben*line and took a good swig from the well remembered bottle. Only to discover I had consumed a good swig of the dog's mange prescription shampoo. My husband was laughing so much he could hardly ring the poisons unit. Who merely told him to take me to casualty if I started foaming at the mouth.. we're still waiting.
    Off to decimate buddleias.. have a lovely day.

61. At 01:50 PM on 09 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Sara and other songsters:

    Gillian had managed to track down E Idle's US publicist and we were working on the wording. I was going to run it past Jonnie, just to check we hadn't said/omitted anything stupid ... and then the recording side took off and I forgot to chase it up!

    Sent it off again now, to Jonnie.

    Assuming he gives it his blessing, we can then start asking nicely for a signpost direct from the PM blog I think.

    In the meantime, there is plenty of time for people to add their bits in to the mix.

    The recording-so-far is on Jonnie's site (there's a link at the top of this page) and and in J's Chatroom Ed Iglehart has some good clear advice for those of us who are technically-challenged.

    For the MUSICALLY-challenged, may I suggest that more percussion of various kinds, whistling, and ad-libs will be very welcome. If you can hold a tune but don't like your singing-voice, contact me direct and I'll send you a kazoo with instructions on how to play it!

    Fifi

62. At 02:42 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

    I've just been clearing out the shed, and have brought along some unwanted toys. If any of you want to burn off those Easter-egg-induced calories, how about a game of skittles, table tennis, badminton or a skipping race?
    Let the Tournament begin!

63. At 02:47 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

    Hello everyone
    I managed to get down to the beach, despite being away. Isn't the space-time continuum fab!

    Thank you all for the encouraging and wise noises re the Non-Date. Esp FFred, GM, BigSis, Gillian (there may be others...). I am in confinement (not that sort!) anyway for the next few days, so can't appear keen if I wanted to. I am taking the "he's really a nice man, etc" speech from my host, as one indication of interest; if I receive what looks like a second indication of encouragement then I will perhaps make it known that I would be amenable to a second meeting. I'm not at all sure we're suited, but it's just nice to be the subject of some interest! Really appreciate all the Frogger support :-)

    Well, the darling folks came up trumps and I am awash with G&B chocolate. I've left some of it on the bar - you can never have too much! Mid you, they frown on drinking at this hour, so I'm just going to sneak a glass of that whisky. Ugh, I forgot, I don't drink whisky. Still, better than Ben*lin. What have you lot been on since I left you??

    Have fun, may not be back for a few days. (or may sneak in for a quickie late tonight)
    Anna xx

64. At 03:13 PM on 09 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    none of my postings last night have appearred, so huge apologies to all (boo hoo), especially those suntanlotioned on the inside....oooops!

    April is intervening so must dash. I think a kazoo is a must in my case, fifi (61)!!

    nik

    PS Anna P (57) !!!!

65. At 05:43 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Chris the Pickle wrote:

    Hiya Froggie sorts,

    I've posted on the Old Beach in response to some of you; I've put in for some new brain cells so hope they arrive soon, then maybe I can keep up with you all :O)

    Happy Easter by the way - hope no-one is feeling too choccy-sick. I finished mine for breakfast... is that so very wrong?? Yes, I thought so too, but carried on regardless.

    Froghugs

    Chris
    xx

66. At 05:43 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

    Thanks for the update Fifi - I didn't realise it was on the Frog Extra Beach, but have found it now - it's coming along really well, don't you think?

    I know just how Gossipmistress feels with all those left-over puds - we've got Waitrose's low fat fruit tart which is absolutely scrummy, plus various cheesecakes and a mountain of raspberries and there's no room left in the fridge, so I've also brought them down to the bar. I'm trying not to look at Anna R's G & B choccy. We still seem to have a lot of choc eggs left, even though I tried to persuade the family to take them when they all left after a fry-up brunch at lunchtime. It's taken me all afternoon to clear up and get some laundry on. Why do they call it a holiday?!!

    I've also got a lot of roast lamb left (we did two large part-boned legs) - has anyone any suggestions as to how I could use it up? Recipes will be very welcome.

67. At 06:13 PM on 09 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Recipe for Lamb curry for Sara

    Cooked leftover lamb
    Half a large butternut squash
    One onion
    Seeds from 8 cardamom pods
    3 cloves
    stick of cinnamon
    2 tsp coriander seeds
    2 tsp cumin seeds
    1 tsp crushed hot chillis
    Inch of ginger grated
    two cloves of garlic
    frozen spinach (or large bag of fresh)
    Fresh coriander
    Tin coconut milk

    Start frying the onion over a medium heat. Add peeled squash cut into chunks and fry for about 5 minutes. Add all the spices and flavourings and stir around for a minute or two until fragrant. Add lamb. Add chopped stalks of coriander and coconut milk. Add spinach (if using frozen - if using fresh add at the end and stir until wilted). Stir, cover and allow to putter gently until the squash is cooked. Sprinkle with chopped coriander leaves and serve.

    
    (courtesy of Bee -

    Mary

68. At 06:29 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Sara:

    Leftover Lamb for me = Shepherds Pie, I'm afraid. Not because I lack imagination, but because I LOVE Shepherds Pie. I'm going all gooey just thinking of it .......

69. At 06:47 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

    Thanks so much madmary - I can almost smell it now! I've checked my spices and I've got most of them, and it looks pretty easy to do - so that's tomorrow's dinner sorted. I'll let you know how it goes ...

70. At 07:16 PM on 09 Apr 2007, wrote:

    It's really easy to make and better if you make it early in the day then heat it up later.

    Mary

71. At 09:53 PM on 09 Apr 2007, stewart M wrote:

    Lamb Curry is better than turkey curry. Had lamb korma on Staurday. Used pataks paste though and did not do from scratch though. I've no excise as we have 3 good asian supermarkets between me and work.
    Happy Easter (belated) to you all. Been doing Easter stuff. Visting friends Good Friday. Easter Sunday medium high anglican service with some incense (mmmmm). Doing Gardening, Putting Firemans pole on the kids climbing frame.

    Was up a Malham today and off to Thirsk tomorrow.

    Some Chevre and unpasturised Camenbert on bar

72. At 11:05 PM on 09 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

    Yup - this giving up chocolate for post-Lent is going well. Just like me to be contrary :o(.......

73. At 11:22 PM on 09 Apr 2007, wrote:

    We shifted some stuff at the car boot, (hooray) but am a bit tired from the enforced 5 30 am rising. Took us all the previous day to load up the car. SO's inspired idea of doing a folder of photos for all the big stuff he wanted to sell (Stripped pine wardrobe, cast iron firelpace, huge ladder etc) meant that we spent the afternoon delivering the bits from that which sold as well. A good day's effort really. Unfortunately selling the wardrobe was not so good as now his clothes are without a home! (Good excuse to take most of them to the charity shop. He always wears the same few things anyway)

    Can see we'll have to do another car boot, as we couldn't get everything in the car this time, & still have more stuff left. What an acquiring society we live in. I can't believe we've got so much stuff. But as a friend who emigrated to NZ said recently, "You have to work out whether you want to SPEND money to keep this stuff (shipping & storage). If you don't, then any money you get for it is a bonus" Wise words.

    Why are most of the customers at car boot sales heavy smokers? Or is it just in the north? When we drove up at 6 30 am, there were dealers hanging about ready to go through our china etc, desparate to get first pick at things. It was quite astonishing. I'd never been a seller before. An interesting sub-culture. Still can't get the smell of smoke out of my nose.

74. At 12:02 AM on 10 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    at last !

    A trot down to the beach, a moonlight stroll, waves lapping gently on the sand, and the call of a slowly dipping blue-bird high above (?? - ??) out of sight, reminds me of the whole point of things...

    ...and that i really must find that egg that Big Sis hid yesterday morning! As for my mixing up the Baileys, it was pure irish cream i'm sure - I've found the sunblock in the fridge!

    n-n
    xx

    Aunt D (60) yuck!

75. At 09:32 AM on 10 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    A big post Easter hello - did I miss much?? A quick look through and I see there have been hedgehogs, Blackie, a non-date (AnnaR how is that going??), all v exciting. Makes my long weekend of drunken abusive neighbours and over sexed Dutchmen (don't ask) seem quite tame.

    Fresh fruit salad (lots of strawbs but no banana) and sparkling water/juice on the bar to refresh after all the claggy chocolate!

76. At 10:14 AM on 10 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    Oh, september...I feel like I've come home!

77. At 10:23 AM on 10 Apr 2007, The New Blog Prince aka Marc wrote:

    Hello all.

    I know it was September earlier today again. We don't know why it keeps happening, which is where you lovely froggers can come in handy. If you notice that the blog has slipped back to September, can you *please* drop an email to ohlookseptemberagain@hotmail.com. That way we will build up a bigger picture of when it's happening - which may give some clue as to why! Possibly.

    Marc

78. At 10:45 AM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Marc - when we really get to September, will the blog go back to April? That would be fun. Can you find out for us please?

79. At 11:43 AM on 10 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

    I have eaten so much chocolate over the last couple of days, I feel like I am about to explode everywhere. And that doesn't include the Fish&Chips nor the large fried breakfast that I also partook in. And yet I am still hungry.

    (partook? Can't be right, it sounds like a cross between a parrot and a cockatoo).

80. At 11:55 AM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    I have eaten no chocolate at all and have still come out in spots!

    Why is this?

    :o(

    Fifi

81. At 12:06 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

    Fifi - that is soooo unfair. Poor you.

    Belinda, or maybe...

    parratoo

    or even

    cockarot (whoops!!)

82. At 12:08 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Feefs (80);
    Coming out in sympathy with your fellow Froggers?

    Si.

83. At 12:50 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Belinda, for some reason intuition suggests to me that you partake of things not in them, and I don't see why the past shouldn't be partook, except when it's partaken.

    Perhaps a better pendant than I can enlighten us?

84. At 01:02 PM on 10 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

    Fifi - hormones!

    now way way back when we tried to get a book club going I mentioned My Sister's Keeper. I know some of your read it and might therefore be interested to know that it is the book to be discussed on the next edition of R4s Book Club program.

    Now I must forage for some lunch, it's been a busy morning. I've brought some tapas to share, think we've all had enough of sweet stuff for a while.

85. At 01:11 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

    Well hello all, am feeling in reasonably fine fettle this morning after a gorgeous weekend, and quite a relaxing one as well. Had a couple of days in a hotel near Longleat which the children (and we) loved (the safari park and attractions that is - not the hotel). The hotel was very nice but not quite as "child friendly" as they would have us believe, more child tolerant I would say. That said they did do baby listening which meant SO and I could dine alone in the evening which is a welcome treat.

    So much to catch up on, am trying to skim through quickly just to make sure I have not missed anything. Big hugs to you (((Fifi))) - read about Blackie, I can totally imagine your anger - would be the same myself.

    Anna R - good luck with date/non-date etc (I mean the after wards, I know you had date/non-date no. 1 already) I just mean general good luck...... and now I am just waffling!! Too much sun methinks!

    Am trying to persuade my sister to get back on the horse so to speak! Her husband of 20 years did a Baldrick (like it!), over 2 years ago. She is totally petrified at the thought of dating again. So if anyone knows any nice kind single men in the North East of Scotland do let me know (but if they are really REALLY nice I might not pass them on :0) )

    Anyway hope you enjoyed the egg hunt, think there is quite a lot of us out there suffering from slight over indulgence so have just brought along some crudities and hummus to munch on today.

    Oh btw - witchi, DO tell us more about your weekend, sounds intriguing to say the least :)

86. At 01:48 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Am I too late to wish everyone a Happy Easter?

    I have eaten lots of chocolates and not a spot in sight. I would, however, swap spots for the belly that appears to insist on stepping in front of me everywhere I go...

    Do clearasil (other spot remedies are available) do a lotion to get rid of bellies?

87. At 01:51 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    AA (84);
    This is curious. My SO dragged me into a bookshop to get that Picoult novel a couple of weeks back. I have to admit that I'd never heard of it, or Picoult, before. Evidently I'd overlooked your suggestion of it way-back-when. I heard the Book Club last Thursday with Mr. Naughtie (whatever happened to Mrs. N. around here?) where he mentioned that it would be the subject for the next edition.

    And I've got *herself* constantly nudging me when we're both snuggled up reading and telling me what's going on in the plot. Apparently the 'heroine' has just become 'medically emancipated', whatever that means.

    So I mentioned it to her and she's curious about how to get involved in the discussion. Any tips? Are you applying for tickets yourself?

    Si.

88. At 02:17 PM on 10 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    Fiona -
    Well, let me just say that said Dutchman was a lodger of drunken neighbour. In a spirit of community etc I took him along with me to a friends for a hot tub whilst his 'landlady' went to work....bad idea. He had had a few glasses of vino before we went and happily tipsy turned in really not very pleasant as he tried to seduce me, in company, shouting over the bubbles.

    Needless to say I left him on the doorstep when we got home; he couldn't quite belive I'd said no!!

    Then....ah, well; Drunken Neighbour turfs him out, clothes on doorstep etc he spent the night with an ex, came back the next day, more shouting including an incident where she followed him to the corner shop to continue said rant.

    And thats the shortened version! I have several upset neighbours and am trying to keep my head down whilst approaching the subject that we may be having to deal with an alcoholic in our midst. Joy!

    :)

    PS what doing a 'Baldrick'??

    PPS I'm fearing the worst re Blackie or is he still awol??

89. At 02:54 PM on 10 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

    witchiwoman - Re "Doing a Baldrick". I asked this on the last Beach (1st April) and I refer you to Anna Rex's answer at 228

90. At 03:07 PM on 10 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    RJD - thanks!! Sometimes it can be a bit of a wade through when you're supposed to be working!! :)

91. At 03:41 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Blackie : well, the food and milk is going every night from the lean-to. However, we are pretty sure it's our resident baby hedgehog rather than Himself.

    Tonight I've decided to put the food etc out on the patio, where whoever-it-is will set off the security light and we can see properly.

    We need closure now, even more than we need false hopes of a miracle recovery.

    For those who've missed the updates, from the description of his symptoms Gossipmistress has me 95% convinced that he wasn't poisoned after all -- just terribly ill.

    Still awfully sad for us, but not quite so angry-making.

    Will know more tomorrow, we trust!

    Fifi

92. At 03:58 PM on 10 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    Fifi - hope it is your liitle guy! what a rollercoaster, big Frogger hugs x

93. At 05:33 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

    Hey Witchiwoman - good to have you back. Could really do with your support & wise counsel (along with that already, gratefully, gathered from others) on the non-date situation.

    All - I'm still not really here - am Eastering c/o the Olds. Pass the gin. No, really, it's nice. But still, pass the gin.

    I think I only think about this bloke because it's better than not having a bloke to think about. Does that make sense? Where's a camel when you need one?

    Might come back later if I can get a connection from here in darkest peru....

    Anna x

    ps local honey from a local market for local people, on the bar for you to enjoy.

94. At 05:37 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

    Fifi - excellent strapline!

    Anna x

    ps haven't had chance fully to read the Beach in absentia, so I'm not sure whether you've finally given up on Blackie, but I hope you're OK. Any ailing cat would be more than blessed to have you looking out for it in its last days. Anna x
    

95. At 05:51 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Hello All and belated Easter greetings. Thanks for the chocolate Fearless. Nikki Noodle, thanks for all the giggles as I've skimmed through. I can't believe I mised Eric in his Speedos though!!! :-( Did you take a photo Gossipmistress? Put it up on Flickr eh?

    Btw, I refer you all to the "Are You Interested in This?" thread of 4th April. Our very own Big Sis there labels us all 'mental dissidents'!! Actually, she's right. Well done that woman, etc. ... :-)

96. At 06:08 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Appy: Put in the way you have, it sounds as thought I've been very rude about us, so I'm posting what I said, in reply to Benjamin the blog researcher, to save others having to trawl back.

    Benjamin: I guess you'd need to look at the PM Blog yourself to answer that question.
    I couldn't be sure, but I don't think this is a conventional blog, certainly doesn't resemble any others that I've seen. And it also seems to be different from other ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ blogs (cf Chris Evans, and others). Somehow, a bit like the effect the Goons had upon people of a certain temperament many light years ago, Eddie Mair's offbeat approach has inspired a group of other 'mental dissidents' to be drawn together. The results are what you see.
    You may be interested to look into the Beach - something which evolved organically, out of the rather zany mindset of the froggers, but which Eddie has kindly taken on board on our behalf
    There is a great deal of interaction on this Blog. It has indeed developed into a virtual community.
    

97. At 06:35 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Oh sorry Big Sis -- I was merely teasing. I am in a very silly mood and it amused me! :-)

    Aperitif,
    Fellow mental dissident.

98. At 06:38 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

    Gossipmistress - wow, you double-tracked yourself, sang harmony with yourself AND whistled!

    I am not worthy.....

    Fifi

99. At 06:40 PM on 10 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

    Big Sister (96) - Speaking personally, I must say that I find it quite insulting being labeled a ¡°mental dissident¡±. I had hoped that I was much worse than that!

100. At 06:51 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Hahahaha! RJD, I've just seen your last "word" on the 26th March "We've just" thread. I was so tempted to reply... And, yes it seems to have given a shove to a four day old comment from Aunt D, but if you go to the next thread -- "Now I don't want to make a habit of this" -- you'll see a comment from Vyle "Mr Tickle" Hernia that took 8 days to appear.
     

101. At 07:41 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Oh, Appy (100)!! I haven't been back that far recently, so I followed your signpost. You, Big Sis, RJD, Humph, Aunt Dahlia, and ValP have had me in tears of laughter for the last ten minutes! That's made my day :):):)

102. At 07:54 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Chris the Pickle wrote:

     Hi Froggers

     I posted this on the old Beach on Monday but no-one's responded so thought I'd try it here too!

     "Anna, Gossip, Fifi & Jonnie:
     Thankyou for all the links and things, I've had great fun listening to the Frogsong, and to The Lying Scotsman!
     Takes me back to when I used to sing in folk groups in the RAF, eons ago... Even recorded a track on an LP once, in a studio in Germany - Tim played the guitar and I warbled. We didn't have a name for ourselves but after the recording someone suggested CITAN ('Cause It Took All Night) because it took 4and-a-half hours to record a 2and-a-half minute track!!!!! Goodness.
     Anyway, I'll have a crack at doing a bit for the track and see if I can manage to follow EdI's scarily technical instructions!
     Off to watch a movie with hubby, adult son and teendaughter now, after a lovely day at the Cotswold Water Park."
     xOx

     Was it worth the cutting 'n pasting effort? No? Oh well...
     

103. At 07:58 PM on 10 Apr 2007, The mental dissident formerly known as Big Sister wrote:

     FFred: You're welcome! ??????????????????????

     (The above being a whole bunch of froggin' mental dissidents, of whom I'm v. proud to be a member)

104. At 08:03 PM on 10 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Ap - You do know that the chances of that "word" being the last have been somewhat diminished by you drawing attention to it! Aunt D's posting was only screened after I posted that final comment, adding further weight to your "push" theory".

     As for Mr Tickle, he was probably delayed in arriving because of commitments at the cricket World Cup in the Caribbean.
     

105. At 08:06 PM on 10 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

     mental dissident indeed!

     (is that good?! etymology of dissident - not an ident, or possibly not a sident, though less likely).

     (now, do i mind greatly being called mentally not an ident? hmm, still not 100% clear on that).

     (could always pretend...)

     (socially embarrassing situations No. 1 - nodding in agreement when you have absolutely no idea what on earth is being discussed).

     Hang on, dissident - an outsider as in someone outside the tent, p*ss*ng in, rather than inside the tent...

     what all of us?!

     n-n
     xx

106. At 09:33 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

     Nice peaceful evening on the beach. I guess everyone's watching the footie with SO.

     Didn't make the curry after all, Madmary, as it was a bit warm this evening and I was too lazy. But I've kept the recipe to make soon.

     Do hope Blackie is OK, Fifi.

     Heard a nice story this Easter: apparently when Jesus ascended to heaven he went looking for his dad, but wasn't quite sure what he would look like after such a long time. Anyway, he came upon this lovely old gentleman with a long grey beard and explained he was looking for his father. "I'm looking for my son", said the old man. "He's got holes in the palms of his hands, where he's been nailed to a cross".

     "Father!" exclaimed Jesus.

     "Pinnochio!" cried the old man.

107. At 10:29 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Glad you enjoyed it all Fearless (101) -- I certaonly did.

     RJD (104), Quite. But at least I still appear to be gracious...

108. At 10:40 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Well done Chris the P -- I see you have managed to comment on March 26th, yet maintain the high moral ground! :-)

109. At 11:30 PM on 10 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

     n-n - speak for yourself re p*ss*ng either in or out of tents :o) I don't do camping.

     FFred - oh you're welcome, we only do it to annoy because we know it teases!

     Actually that latter reminds me of a Mr Val P comment which will go down in the annals of Comments Not To Be Made Again. Before heading out to the James Clerk Maxwell Lecture on Easter Sunday (don't ask), having done my best to dress so as to shock the natives (estimated and confirmed average age 92), I made the singular mistake of asking him if I looked ok.
     "Fine, you look fine"
     Bad move - this, he knows, is my least favourite word -
     "You look like one of the Queens off a playing card"

     D'you know, I was, for once, speechless.......

110. At 11:41 PM on 10 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Aperitif (95) - but I never go anywhere without my !

     
     Fifi (98) - but you produced a professional-sounding track in 48hrs and I took 3 weeks to record a whistle!! :-)

111. At 12:08 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

     Val P - my SO reckons I have the worst way of saying he has done well in anything, 'cos I say it's fine! He is very effusive in his praise and I am quite reserved. So when I say it's fine, I actually mean "well done, you. you've done a grand job, you're a fab sort of person, I could never have done what you've done", but it takes so many words!!

112. At 12:10 AM on 11 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Val P - I'm confused!

     What did he actually say?

     "Fine, you look fine" _ I hope not.
     or
     "You look like one of the Queens off a playing card" - I hope so.

113. At 12:30 AM on 11 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     Simon I have just spent some time wandering round the ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ website - am I the only one who finds it less than user friendly? Anyway I finally found the bit about the book programme, only to discover that it said that all the tickets were booked. So your SO will just have to be content with listening to the radio, and possibly shouting at it. The end of the book is quite shattering, so I hope you will be there with a shoulder in case she gets a bit sniffly. Sadly I won't be here for it as I shall be in America, or Canada, can't quite remember the date.

114. At 03:12 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Frances O wrote:

     Seem to be going through an insomnia phase. So thanks to Sara for the joke, Gossipmrs for the photo ;-) , and jealous frown at Big Sis for being able to do that alt+1 thingie.

115. At 08:32 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     Just seen that they have given in to temptation and will attempt a sequel to 'Life on Mars' - just as I was mentally congratulating them on knowing when to stop!

116. At 09:06 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Frances O: What this? ?? Why can't you get it I wonder? Are there other froggers who can't? Incidently, I get it with or without Nums Lock on (which I think might affect some of the other functions).

     Well, Frances, ?(that's alt + 2, btw!), and you may wish to experiment yourself ......

117. At 09:28 AM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Good morning all! Well, another beaut day so theres fresh bread ready for toasting on the bar to go with AnnaR's lovely honey. Tea and coffee today I think.

     AnnaR - will do my best as far as wise words go. I am in a somewhat odd situation relationship wise but thats never stopped me from offering my tuppence worth. Its nice to have a bloke to think about every now and again; whats worse is having a bloke when you don't want one! :)

     Off I go in to April - am expecting fall out from a friendly/supportive note I dropped round to my alcoholic/abusive neighbour/friend (sorry about all the /s, but its that kind of situation).

     May go via the Glass Box though and see whats happening - catch you all later, I hope! :) xx

118. At 09:57 AM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Anne P - yes I agree - I was just thinking they had made as good a job as they could in 'finishing it off' as well!

     Frances - are you using the RIGHT handside keypad? It's easy really -

     - turn the number lock on *
     - Hold down 'Alt'
     - Press eg 259 ? or 269 ? or 128 ?

     * Big Sis - I find I get flipped back to Google if I don't have the number lock on!

119. At 10:22 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     ?r???€¡ì ?
     I suggest you have a look at the Caf¨¦ Ol¨¦ thread, especially numbers 8 and 24, where you'll find we've been given some new toys to play with! Thank you Jacques and Marc.

120. At 10:31 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

     WW - I'm sure we're all intrigued now, but not gonna pry :-)
     Lovely to hear from you.

     I feel a bit out of it, with only occasional peeps onto the beach, but glad you are all enjoying the sun, sea, sand... sangria?

     Caught a bit about metal dissidents though. So, I still fit right in :-)

     AR xx

121. At 10:52 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Goodluck Witchi (117).

     Gossipmistress (110), fantastic! I'm not leaving now in case he comes back! But I will have to lie down for a bit -- phew!

122. At 11:06 AM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     AnneP, GM, I too watched the last LIM last night. I was happily content with the ending. I'm not sure how well the sequel will work, but I understand it'll be a similar setup, set in London in 1981, but no Sam Tyler and no Annie Cartwright. This time it's been rumoured it'll be a female DI or DCI who goes back in time/is in a coma/is mad* I guess we'll just have to wait and see. Mind you, I wasn't that convinced by the idea last year before I saw the first episode. Just shows how wrong you can be!

     *delete where applicable

123. At 11:13 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Re Book Programmes and the like ......

     I've just been sent details of a new programme - a Book Quiz -

     THE BOOK QUIZ

     The Book Quiz is a new ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ4 panel game about literature in which two teams of book-loving guests face questions on all things literary, from classic works to the contemporary works we're all reading and talking about. A bit a la HIGNFY, etc.

     Guest panellists include Joan Bakewell,
     Simon Hoggart, Daisy Goodwin, Toby Young, Val McDermid and India
     Knight.

     If there are froggers who'd like details of how to get tickets, perhaps you could go to my Walnut Whip on Flickr and I'll post the info.

124. At 11:17 AM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Life On Mars -

     Missed the original comments this morning (bit of a dash).

     So glad this was brought up; brilliant ending. Enough so that you didn't feel like you had been left hanging but not so prescriptive that you felt you had been conned. Not sure about the spin off but keeping an open mind!

     Appy (121) - thanks! All quite so far...I'm not sure if thats a good sign!

125. At 11:27 AM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     AnnaR - oops, posted before I replied to you! Out of it for a good reason?? I feel quite frazzled as have been working like an idea this morning to clear the decks which will prob mean I have sod all to do this arvo...apart from Frog!!

     And maybe one day I will divulge a little more...just not quite yet!! :)

126. At 11:31 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     I saw Life on Mars too. I was satisfied but not wildly impressed. I did like the 'leaping off the building' moment though. If anyone remembers far enough back to be able to visulise the first episode I just loved the way they did the initial car accident. I saw it on tape and re-ran it several times -- it was just so well shot.

127. At 11:32 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     FF(122): Good job I don't have a TV then, I found the 1980s depressing the first time around.

128. At 11:36 AM on 11 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     morning all. I've jusy been watching Lord Mair on the telly!

     No don't shout, you haven't missed him. It was a video that my son made when EM used to present a great program called Time Commanders. Every so often, like this morning when he should have been revising glaciated valleys, son gets it out to watch. And I watched along with him not having a great deal to do (hum, hum.) The team were rubbish and got trounced but I enjoyed watching it. EM was a very good presenter, the thing was never the same after they got Richard The Hamster Hammond to do it.

     Commented on L on Mars in another thread, I thought it was a great ending. MInd you, I heard someone explainging it on the Today program, and I've talked about it with my son and that gave me three differnt interpretations of it. So what do other froggers think happened?

     Scones and cafe au lait on the NCMB.

129. At 11:42 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Perky wrote:

     I also enjoyed the last Life On Mars episode last night. Just enough of a twist to make it work. I also think it's better off without a sequel, although I live for Gene Hunt's one liners!

     Only a quick peek at the sand for me this morning - I promise to come back and leave some deeper footprints as soon as I can.

130. At 11:55 AM on 11 Apr 2007, Aunt Dahlia wrote:

     May I just have a teensy weensy RANT, please move on if you don't want to hear a very familiar tale.
     I've been waiting in for a BT engineer. He's coming to fix the broadband that has been intermittent since 5 March. I've spent 11 hours on hold to India, in the course of 15 calls and only got attention when I demanded the MAC code. It transpires that if I ask for it, I break the contract and will have to pay. To enable BT to establish that they have broken the contract I have to have an engineer. Hooray we cry. Too soon. I've just had a call from India. Due to a system error two days ago the appointment has been cancelled. Now if I want an engineer it will cast me anything from ?50 to ?150 to resolve the problem. And why dodn't they leave a message - they did, telling me to ring the Indian number, which I never want to listen to again..... I really feel ill, how does one cope with this utter nonsense?
     Feel slightly better, am now going to walk dog briskly up mountain.(alright, slowly round hill)

131. At 11:55 AM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     FFred (122) afraid it won't be the same for me without Sam Tyler!!

132. At 12:40 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     I wonder, GM, if the female world splits into those who fancy Sam Tyler and those who prefer Gene Hunt? I'm with you in the former group!

133. At 12:55 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Aunt Dahlia (incidentally, I'm getting v. confused - are you male or female? - please make a clear statement on this one ....)

     BT can be a nightmare these days, no two ways about it. That much said, I think all service providers are capable of some really really crass behaviour.

     It may well be good to try to get hold of their 'High Levels Complaints' service, which helped me to sort out a mega muddle not very long ago. If I had the number to hand, I'd pass it on. Try the BT enquiries number and ask them for it. Really.

134. At 01:02 PM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Is it just me or does our Lord and Mairster seem a little quiet today?? Eddie - are you ok? or has the caffeine finally incapictated you? (Scuse the spelling)

135. At 01:02 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Re Book Quiz -

     Just thought, you may not all know my flickring link for the Walnut Whip, so here it is:

136. At 01:05 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Sorry if this comes out twice... I've just been maliciously naughty!

     Aunt D! Poor you, clearly you deserve a large G&T and someone from Offcom or Trading Standards to put a bomb under their collective a***s! (other donkeys are available...)

     Anne P - oo those cordrouys & flowery shirts!!
     Maybe we should do a survey?

137. At 01:41 PM on 11 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     well if you do a survey put me firmly in the Philip Glenister ( note not Gene Hunt ) camp. I first saw him as Major Dobbin in a ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ version of Vanity Fair ( one of my all time favourite 19C novels ) and he was fantastic - almost made me cry. I never miss him if I know he's on, he's a wonderful actor.

     John Sim is also OK but a bit too much 'pretty boy' for me.

     Aunt D I really feel for you, these big organisations just think they can muck anyone around as they like. It's a bit reminiscent of my 'called as a witness' saga late last year. I can only hope that Big Sis' advice works.

138. At 01:44 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Aunt Dahlia wrote:

     Thank you Big Sis - and GM - am now off in search of Higher level Complaints, because, although I am all gurl, I do have a wonderful contralto voice- although BT almost turn me into a soprano (in as many ways as you care to take that one!)

139. At 01:46 PM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     GM/AnneP - Never mind the Gene/Sam debate (it would have to be Sam...Gene's shoes and driving gloves - eek! Though did look ok in that donkey jacket...), the bit that got me last night was when Sam held her face in his hands before he kissed her....ah, not since George Clooney and Nurse Hathaway has one screen kiss reduced me to such girly hooraying.

140. At 01:56 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Oh dear I feel very out of it today - having never watched an episode of Life on Mars I have not tot a clue how good it was! Glad you all seemed to enjoy though. I was on (am I allowed to say??) C4 all night - enjoyed the programme with Harvey Goldsmith and Saxon - mainly because I rememer seeing Saxon many moons ago when I was about 14 years old (in my really heavy metal phase days) and the next day at school neither my friend or I could move our heads we had "headbanged" so much!!

     Oh Witchi - meant to post yesterday to say how much FUN your weekend sounded :) Hope you are able to look at your neighbours now!

141. At 02:16 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Oh dear I feel very out of it today - having never watched an episode of Life on Mars I have not tot a clue how good it was! Glad you all seemed to enjoy though. I was on (am I allowed to say??) C4 all night - enjoyed the programme with Harvey Goldsmith and Saxon - mainly because I rememer seeing Saxon many moons ago when I was about 14 years old (in my really heavy metal phase days) and the next day at school neither my friend or I could move our heads we had "headbanged" so much!!

     Oh Witchi - meant to post yesterday to say how much FUN your weekend sounded :) Hope you are able to look at your neighbours now!

142. At 02:17 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Oh dear I feel very out of it today - having never watched an episode of Life on Mars I have not tot a clue how good it was! Glad you all seemed to enjoy though. I was on (am I allowed to say??) C4 all night - enjoyed the programme with Harvey Goldsmith and Saxon - mainly because I rememer seeing Saxon many moons ago when I was about 14 years old (in my really heavy metal phase days) and the next day at school neither my friend or I could move our heads we had "headbanged" so much!!

     Oh Witchi - meant to post yesterday to say how much FUN your weekend sounded :) Hope you are able to look at your neighbours now!

143. At 02:28 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

     Poor Eddie really is sick - I think he should come and rest down here on the beach and we'll soon get him well again.

     BT are indeed a nightmare, Aunt Dahlia. Once I had to arrange for a line to be put into a church and I simply couldn't get BT to do it: when I rang Residential (the original line had been residential), they told me I had to ring Business, and when I rang Business they told me I had to ring Residential. This went on for several phone calls until I explained that the line was for a church, which is God's house, and God lives there, so it's Residential.

     After a long stunned silence (no answer to that one!) Residential got on and did the job, no doubt earning themselves as seat in heaven.

144. At 02:42 PM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Fiona (141) -
     Fun, hm, enlightening perhaps??! Have apologised profusely to owner of hot tub and she has been very gracious (just me and her next time!!). The other neighbours (non drunken or abusive) are all ok if a little frayed and upset. Am trying to spread the balm of serenity upon the wounds of inappropriate behaviour (there may be a strapline in there!)

145. At 02:53 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     Sara (142) Brilliant! I laughed so much I nearly choked.

146. At 02:53 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Well it was certainly fun to read about at least, ww (145), Good luck in building those neighbourly bridges again :) !! Oh and I may not have a clue about the Life on Mars discussion but I do so remember the Doug Ross/Carol Hathaway kiss - ah (am getting all goose bumpy now just thinking of it)

147. At 03:00 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Oh dear, I hadn't counted on all the women discussing the merits of Jon Simm vs Philip Glennister vs Sam Tyler vs Gene Hunt. I just liked the show for the memories it brought back (like curly wurlys, hearing the Sweeney theme tune, etc.) That said, I did have thoughts about Annie Cartwright in her WPCs uniform!

148. At 03:14 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Anne P : Can't say either of them appeals to me at all. Bring back the lovely Chris the DJ from Northern Exposure!

     Fiona : Saxon? Heavy metal? Naaah! I gave up following HM when Saxon, Iron Maiden and Def Leppard appeared and it all went fluffy. Particularly Saxon, each member clad in a different pastel-coloured spray-on spandex trews!

     REAL heavy metal was all the Deep Purple offshoots: Dio, Rainbow, Gillan and my favourites Whitesnake (before THEY went all fluffy!).

     I still headbang enthusiastically whenever I get the chance. Even though nowadays it takes my neck muscles an extra 2 days to recover...

     Fifi

149. At 03:59 PM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Fifi - Chris the DJ...big sigh. Happy memories of being in the 6th Form and thinking he was my ideal man; dare I go back and revisit??

     Fiona (147) - glad it was a diverting read! On reflection is sounds quite surreal but I swear its all true! And yes, those goosebumps are at this end too :)

150. At 04:03 PM on 11 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Fiona (147) - second attempt so sorry if I duplicate....
     Glad it was a diverting read! In retrospect it seems quite surreal but I swear it was all true!
     And yes, goosbumps all round - those were the days!

     Fifi (149) - Chris the DJ! Oh happy memories of the 6th Form and thinking he was my perfect guy...I wonder if it bears a revisit?

151. At 04:10 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     Fifi - Northern Exposure - now there was a show. I think I've glimpsed the actor who played Chris from time to time since.

152. At 04:15 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Well Fifi can't say I was ever really a Saxon fan (I was only 14 at the time - the ignorance of youth and all that), but last night's programme was entertaining on a comedy value (seeing a bunch of ageing rockers still trying to look cool). But Rainbow, Whitesnake - definitely with you there. Heard Rainbow's Since You've Been Gone on the radio in the canteen at work the other day. First time I have heard that in years - boy did that take me back. Had to really fight the urge to not sing along out loud as I stood there looking smart and demure (ha!) in my office clothes. Memories.........

153. At 04:35 PM on 11 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     Sorry Ffred - and it's very brave of you to admit to the uniform thing.

154. At 04:41 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Fifi (149),

     Ah, N6rthern Ex-6s4re! Chr5s a--eared br5ef3y 5n sEX AND THE c5TY.

     D6N'T know just what was happening to my keyboard (must have left numlock on)
     ?¡ó?????¡â¡á
     xx
     ed

     And, now, a malicious warning!
     ±¸ÙÀ‚\‚S‚ÝÉ¡?

155. At 04:42 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     OK, OK, if I had to choose. Sam Tyler is adorable and good and courageous and strong and does the right thing so he would be the one to fall for. But he's a bit worthy. And one would have to dabble with Gene Hunt before settling down -- without the horrid shoes and the cigarette breath, of course -- he'd just be Quite Good, don't you think? But neither of them are in my top 20.

     See what you've started Fearless?

156. At 05:43 PM on 11 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

     Listen all you female froggers (!):

     This is the beach - I have sent out a personal invitation to all those guys you have named above, and invited them down to the beach on Saturday 7:30 for 8, dead or alive.

     Dress - optional,

     Drinks - compulsory,

     Camels - take one or leave one.

     I however, shall be behind the NC bar that night, possibly all night.

     I shall post any replies received up on the wall, as usual.

     n-n
     xx

157. At 06:51 PM on 11 Apr 2007, ?r???€¡ì ? wrote:

     1

     That's what I get with num lock + alt + right-hand keypad 1.

     It's cos I is using a Mac.

     I can do lots of fun things in Word, but I don't seem to be able to here. Ho, and hum. Might copy+paste from you PC-ers, though!!!

     ? Oooh, it works!

     Thanks, all, though, esp Gossipmrs and Gillian.

     More thanks (you'd think I'd got a BAFTA) to BigSis for the book quiz link. Sounds good.

     As for LoM, I didn't watch it, because for me the 70s were a pit of ghastliness. So I won't be chasing any of the cast of characters. I'll join nn at the NC bar. With a camel.

158. At 07:39 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Nikki Noodle (157), But have you invited George and Johnny?

159. At 10:09 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Aperitif (158) I do hope so ?!

160. At 10:22 PM on 11 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     NN - And Sean and Richard and actually Mark Strong is someone else it would be nice to have on the beach, can't think of anyone else off hand.

     Perhaps you ought to invite a few females as well for the boys and/or any gay female froggers, I expect Fearless could start you off with a list of those ( invitees that is!)

     Now I'm off to have a cold shower and a lie down

     (well a warm shower and off to bed actually. see you all in the morning).

161. At 10:31 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

     Oooh, there appears to be a very large sand dune blocking the way. Here's me, popping back to leave a footprint at 10:30pm, and no sign of life since 7:39. Hope you're all OK. Maybe something to do with n-n arranging what looks like a mass fantasy *rgy. Why does thast always happen when I'm away??

     Nt nt.
     AR xx

162. At 10:35 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

     RJD - he said both! Being met with the ghastly silence after the first comment, he obviously felt a follow-up was required.....

163. At 10:40 PM on 11 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Aperitif - why do I keep sniggering at your 158 (fnaw fnaw!)

164. At 11:32 PM on 11 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

     FFred - what about Martin Shaw? and for the gents, I think we have a certain Ms Johansson amongst us already if I've read another thread correctly!!

     App - I've missed the boat (no pun intended) until recently regarding Mr D - but someone made me watch Pirates of the Carribean (sp?). How fab is he?!!

     Now n-n, I've just seen a clip of Janet Street Porter getting up close and personal with a camel, is there something we should know?

     RJD, I see you got the last word/woof on the Izzy thread! btw what fun it is to have one's name at the top of a thread - even if it was for something so mundane :o).

     Slow day today, I wonder if a bloggage has come out in sympathy with poor old Eddie and Sequin?

165. At 07:19 AM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Well, morning all. I've left breakfast fixings, along with pots of coffee and tea on the bar. I hope Eddie feels better soon. Will try to frog from Budapest later on today!

     FFred...

166. At 09:02 AM on 12 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     FFred - Budapest? Business or pleasure?

     Thanks for lovely coffee - much needed after family gathering last night complete with 8 month old step nephew and autistic pre-teen cousin...I think I need to write this all down, I'm sure it'd make a good novel (or does soemone else want a crack - I'm sure theres potential!)

     Off to refresh my feet in the fabulously blue ocean - anyway want to join me for thick doorstep toast with butter afterwards? Simple pleasures etc

167. At 09:07 AM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     My dream about rescuing a tiny baby hedgehog from the Reception area at Radio Clyde prompts me to give the latest update on Blackie the feral cat:

     It IS a hedgehog that's been snaffling the milk and food I'm putting out. He's clever enough not to set off the security light but the ceiling light from the kitchen was enough to pick him out.

     I'll ring the RSPCA today and ask them to take away the humane trap.

     Sorry folks.

     On a brighter note, did anyone hear today's Today? The last half hour was almost as funny as yesterday's: an unbroken run of THREE completely inarticulate interviewees!

     Fifi ;o)

168. At 10:32 AM on 12 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Izzy (164) - Me? - Get the last word? It hasn't happened anywhere yet!

169. At 10:39 AM on 12 Apr 2007, Chris the Pickle wrote:

     ?????´Ç?¨a+?¡ð

     Whoopee! I made shapes...

     I need to lie down in a dark room now.

     And then I need to get a life.

     :?

170. At 10:40 AM on 12 Apr 2007, admin annie wrote:

     Fifi, I heard the Kurt Vonnegut one partly but it was so painful I had to turn it off. Perhaps I should listen again. Off back to April where there are chores waiting, I hope I'll be able to drop back later.

171. At 10:55 AM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Fifi & Fiona;
     Ah the classic days of Metal. I was listening to some of the 70's / 80's albums by Judas Priest, Black Sabbath, Motorhead and Rainbow yesterday. I got quite wistful. Life was so much simpler then.

     I saw the Leppards in Newport (Shropshire) village hall in 1979 when the drummer was still only 15 (I think). I even bought their first EP called 'Getcha Rocks Off' on their own Bludgeon Riffola label.

     Off for a headbang behind the dunes.

     Si.

172. At 10:59 AM on 12 Apr 2007, Penny Tripp wrote:

     Teehee RJD (168).

     :-)

     xx
     LadyP

173. At 11:29 AM on 12 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     You are not wrong there Si (171) life was indeed much simpler then. Maybe we need to have a Rocker's corner at the beach so us closet headbangers can go and let off a bit of steam to the "tunes" of Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin etc...

174. At 11:31 AM on 12 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     
     I'm trying to make my own Glass Box.

     This will look really stupid if it doesn't work!
     ¨X¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨[
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨U???????????????????????¨U
     ¨^¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨T¨a

     But that has never stopped me before!

175. At 11:46 AM on 12 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

     RJD - you did have last night, but I think Big Sis has trumped you now. Sorry, seems you're right!

176. At 11:50 AM on 12 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Simon (171) Apart from having 2 comments read out on PM, my only tentative claim to fame is that I have a passing acquaintance with the bass player from Judas Priest. Sadly I didn't know him when we were both young enough for me to be his groupie....though he swears he was always more interested in a good book, as he remains to this day!

177. At 12:04 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     RJD (174) : Your glass box is lovely. Needs a bit of a polish though. I can't see my face in it.

     Si (171) Fi (173) & Gill (176) : Ah, when liking Heavy Metal wasn't something to be slightly embarrassed about, and the bands looked more like hell's angels than shampoo adverts!

     I have painfully lugged Nigel our band's PA system to that lovely cave down by the waterfront, in order to crank up the maximum watts without frightening the camels.

     There's a CD player and a disc deck there, if anyone would like to bring their metal favourites for a quick blast.

     I'm now off to look out my Best of Rainbow double-album, Bat out of Hell CD, and many-many Whitesnake vinyls with the lovely artwork and lyrics in tiny white print.

     Bacon butties await!

     Fifi

178. At 12:07 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Simon (and others): Ahh, but who can forget the Crazy World of Arthur Brown?

     " I am the god of hell fire and I bring you... Fire (do-be-dooo) I'll take you to burn (doodoodeedee doo .....)"

     complete with flaming lyre headdress. Mad, but wonderful!
     

179. At 12:21 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Gillian;
     You know Ian Hill, the unsung hero of Priest?

     *We are not worthy. We are not worthy*

     I saw the Priest with the Scorpions in support a couple of years back at the place formerly known as the Hammersmith Odeon. Sadly Rob Halford's voice has completely gone Kaputt. All the glorious high-pitched vocals from the glory days of 'Sin after Sin' and 'Stained Class' are gone, replaced with nothing more than a guttural grunt. *sighs*

     The Scorpions were worth the entrance fee alone though. I'd seen them before at Knebworth and the first Monsters of Rock at Donington. Great rock music, fun to watch and a great example of a bunch of old farts still enjoying their music and performing live. Klaus Meine can still sing too.

     Now where's my imaginary Gibson Flying V? Air guitar demonstration in 10 minutes by the NCMB. Anyone here play imaginary bass and imaginary drums? Fancy an imaginary jam session to the tune of Smoke on the Water?

     Si.

180. At 12:32 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Ah Fifi.....Bat out of Hell, now you are really talking!! Still one of my favourite ever rock albums, and the only album which I could (and in fact think I still can) sing all the way through - was word perfect at one time......in fact I feel a song coming on now "The sirens are screaming and the fires are howling way down in the valley tonight........."
     Feel free to join in folks...

181. At 01:01 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Re: Fifi,

     Our local vicar was on though. Rev Oats, talking about the HSBC in Canford Cliffs!

     Still no CD from you Fifi :-( mind you not desperate as I'm a tad busy at the mo.

182. At 01:14 PM on 12 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     BigSis -
     Saw Arthur Brown at a lit fest last year talking about his life....I'd never though someone capable of such a wonderfully bizarre musical effort could be so dreadfully dull. Sorry if I shattered any illusions!!

183. At 01:27 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     Does anyone know if/when ISIHAC is coming back? It's usually April-type time but no sign.

184. At 01:35 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     Ww: He's pretty old now, but I saw him many years ago (one of the first live acts I ever saw) and he was amazing then. All lit up! and a fine voice.

     But time doesn't stand still. I certainly wouldn't expect him to match up to those days of yore. And he didn't speak when I saw him - just sang.

     Your comment reminds me, however, of the time I saw Desmond Dekker perform live, and he was dreadful (on that occasion), yet I've recently heard people on the radio saying what a wonderful live performer he was. I loved the Israelites, so felt v. let down by his performance.

     The best live performance I've ever seen was Queen in Brighton, many years ago. I'm so so glad I caught them - have always loved their stuff, and they earned every bit of the ticket price. I wept when Freddie Mercury died.

185. At 01:36 PM on 12 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

     Post has just arrived at the NCM Bar - two replies so far for Saturday - I've pinned them up on the wall as promised !!

     [first froggers to respond will probably be able to decipher their names!]

     And a virtual card from Budapest - it's blank because FF's psychic ink wont show until he logs on!! Expecting more replies in 2nd delivery...

     Cracking strap fifi!! and i can hear something coming from the direction of the cave but I can't make out who...

     ...and I love your Glass Box, RJD, do you want feedback?!

     oh what a lovely day !

     bee bop a loo bop !!

     n-n
     xx
     

186. At 01:59 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Jonnie (181) - CD will wing its way to you shortly, but both John and I are veryvery busy right now, so please don't be holding your breath. Maybe next week...?

     And Jonnie, that was YOUR vicar was it? He sounded very sensible and pleasant, as most vicars are that I've met.

     
     By the way, Blackie fans, I have rung RSPCA and they're coming to take away their trap on Monday.

     Blackie R.I.P., wherever you are. Sorry we couldn't save you, happy we knew you for a little while.

     
     Fifi

187. At 02:56 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Aunt Dahlia wrote:

     BT sag
     Chapter 47
     I rang 150 to get the Higher levels Complaints number and Gary eventually gave in and admitted it existed, but I had to do a lot of persuading before he gave it up. When I rang it, I was through to Andy in Finance. He, poor creature, had no internal directories, or access to them... so I had to go back to 150. This time I spoke to Beri, who assured me that there was no broadband complaints section, but there was a broadband 'resolution' department. Unfortunately they were so busy you had to leave your resolution and they would get back to you. So I whined a lot and got put through to the UK Technical Faults Division. And went through the saga again, and Terry agreed I needed Higher Level Complaints, and he willingly gave me the 0800 number. Which got me RAC Direct Insurance. At this point I just roared woth laughter and tried the 150 number again. Angi gave me another number, and I got Ann in Compensation Claims. By this time I was almost hysterical, she was very kind, gave me another number - and A Name.
     I rang that and was told I would be caled back instatly. That was at 15.05 yesterday.
     You really couldn't make this up.
     If anyone needs me I shal be swigging a clear, slightly fizzy liquid with lime in it. From a horizontal position in the lee of a camel. Near where n-n has the collecting ring.

188. At 03:06 PM on 12 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Fifi - am so so sorry; big hugs

     BigSis - Queen, wow, v jealous! Was a bit young som missed the boat on that; my Mom is kicking herself that she didn't try for the Wembley gig.

     Funnily enough one of the best gigs I've been to was Bruce Springsteen, couple of years ago, it was phenomenal. I finally 'got' one of his songs; I'd always loved it but it suddenly clicked and I ended up in floods of tears. Live music has such power; I could listen to anything if its performed well and with love/joy/enthusiasm.

189. At 03:54 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Belinda (183) Round about the time when the first Cuckoo is heard?!

190. At 04:34 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

     Fifi - I echo the sorries (()) to you.

     Aunt D - you'll end up in the funny farm at this rate. But do keep us updated - I'm sorry it's happening to you but it is making me chuckle. (btw, I read "Ann in constipation claims" at first!)

     My two best gigs were Pink Floyd at somewhere-in-London-that-I-can't-remember-at-present on their last tour and The Who at the Royal Albert Hall with guests ranging from Nigel Kennedy to Noel Gallagher (that Oasis boy again, Big Sis!). Fab fab fab.

     Going to see The Who again in June - can't wait (esp as exams will all be over then and I won't have to be tied to my desk anymore - thank goodness for you lot keeping me sane)

191. At 04:42 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Aunt D (187) Please forgive me for laughing (again), but you tell it so well.

     RAC Direct Insurance? Say it ain't so! Hahahaha...

192. At 04:51 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Speaking of cuckoos, as I sit here awaiting PM, I am having to shoo off a beautiful cock pheasant who persists in climbing onto the bed beside me. Serves me right for tossing him peanuts earlier. I hope he doesn't leave me anything in exchange...

     No cuckoos yet, but plenty of other spring signs. Saw the first bluebell flower spikes a few days ago and the plums and blackthiorn are in full bloom.

     xx
     ed

193. At 05:05 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Izzy;
     Probably Earls Court, autumn/winter of 1994. Delicate Sound of Thunder tour. They did the complete Dark Side of the Moon after the interval. I went to the Saturday show there on that tour, having bailed out of attending a friends wedding reception to do so. The groom would have gone, but had other arrangements that day (Hee hee).

     Failing that the one before was at Wembley stadium in August 1988. I was there for that one too.

     Or 'The Wall' tour late in 79 or 80? 80 I think. Earls Court again. I managed that one.

     Or the extravaganza to benefit the Nordoff-Robbins music charity at Knebworth with a host of other big name talent. Late 80's? Missed that one, I was at sea.

     Floyd don't do concerts, they do a full-blooded show.

     Anyone going to see Rush when they tour the U.K. in October?

     And for all those aging Dio fans look out for the 'Heaven and Hell' tour this autumn. It's the very same incarnation of Black Sabbath which cut the 'Heaven and Hell' and 'Mob Rules' albums in the early 80's, including Mr. RJ Dio Esq. They're touring under that moniker to avoid problems over who owns the Sabbath name. Odd that he has the same initials as our fellow Frogger and permanent occupant of the naughty step?

     Si.

194. At 05:40 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     For those on any thread who are getting anxious about falling foul of mis-spellings, typos and other bloggy gremlins ... here is the perfect site for you.

     Take any word that comes out mangled, search for it, and you may well find that someone has ascribed a perfectly plausible meaning to it.

     Fifi

195. At 05:47 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Looking at 192, it occurs to me y'all might think I'm in bed with a cock beside me. Perish the thought! I'm on a chair on the treehouse deck and the bed is beside me. The cock has shrunk into the shadows for the moment.

     I hope that makes it all clear.
     ;-)
     ed

196. At 05:58 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Izzy T'Me wrote:

     Ed (192 & 195) - Stop digging, you're only making it worse for yourself ;o).

     Si - what a font of information you are! It was the one at Earls Court, although I thought it was the Division Bell tour, or was that just the album that was out at the time? Anyway, you're right, it wasn't just a concert it was a SHOW!

197. At 07:24 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Oh Aunt D (187) don't know whether to laugh or cry! Didn't Marcus Brigstocke go on about a similar b***s up with BT? Is it time to call Off-rant? Send Bertie round to upset them with a cunning plan & a priceless creamer!

198. At 07:32 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     Looking at 192, it occurs to me y'all might think I'm in bed with a cock beside me.

     Don't worry Ed, we're all pretty open-minded on here.

199. At 07:34 PM on 12 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     Aunt D. - all sounds horribly familiar except my experiences were with Talk Talk who have still not refunded my son the three months broadband they took by direct debit AFTER they had switched him to free broadband for ever! And that was after a great long saga with no services at all and everyone swearing that someone else was dealing with it.

     You remind me I need to chase it up....

     ....girds up loins and takes a deep breath before diving back into April....

200. At 08:28 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Aunt D - you have my utmost sympathy. I once (before I became permanently hospitalised under the Mental Health Act) managed to talk to a 'real' BT engineer. He 'couldn't possibly comment' of course, but did manage to express deep sadness at the Byzantine tangle that laughingly calls itself a communications company. I'm too sad and tired to regale you with my tales of despair over BT's 'support' strategy - but I honestly wonder how they manage to make any profit at all - or even if that is really their intention!?

     And really, really, don't get me started on British Gas! For over a year now, they've been threatening legal action for electricity that they've never supplied, to an address that I've never lived at.

     Yours catatonically - going to open the port now, and forget about the world.

     Mark

     PS - anybody know whatever happened to complain.com?

201. At 09:39 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Oh yes Aunt D - been there & done that too, except it was P*w*rg*n & went on for over a year. Bills for gas they weren't supplying owing to us having changed suppliers months before. Red demands for the same gas they hadn't supplied.

     When my blood pressure couldn't stand the torture of the customer service phone system again(rather like your experience today) I wrote them a letter which ended - after 2 pages detailing the full horror- "I can only assume there is some kind of parallel universe in our cellar, in which you are supplying us with gas we are unaware of. Have you any other explanation?"

     Got an apologetic letter back, promising there would be no more communications from them. A couple of weeks later - yet another letter asking me would I like to come back to them as a customer? You just have to laugh, don't you?

     This was pre-blog - now of course we can vent our spleen by putting such experiences on't blog- so much more accessible than the Customer Services people! Good luck with your efforts. I keep getting letters from BT asking if I would like to return to them as a customer. What do you think? Should I give them a try?

202. At 11:12 PM on 12 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Evening all!

     Sorry to say that my frogging from Budapest will be limited by the bandwidth offered by the hotel and the fact tat it's gone midnight!

     Still suffice to say I'm missing you all, and I'll try to take a photo or two before I leave...

     As for gigs, i have the supreme pleasure of seeing Maria McKee & band play Bush Hall in a couple of weeks time. Trust me when I say that those without tickes will really be missing out :-)

     A FFred in a Foreign Land

203. At 01:30 AM on 13 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Fearless, is that you I can see through my international knowhole? Nice PJs, but I didn't expect to see you in pink lace somehow....

204. At 01:53 AM on 13 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     I don't want to go to bed -- the very act throws into sharp focus the notion that another day of my precious life is over.

205. At 08:53 AM on 13 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     This is just the best thing ever:

     When was the last time you saw a Walrus?

206. At 10:49 AM on 13 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     And at risk of spamming, I just found out that the council 'lost' my allotment plot and I'm now back on the waiting list. It may seem trivial but I want a drink. I can't take the pressure of vegetable growing anymore, obviously.

207. At 10:49 AM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Belinda - I expect Hugh Sykes will be interviewing one for PM soon.

208. At 10:56 AM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Appy (204) - are you quite ok?

     Dealings with the drunken abusive neighbour took another turn and I have now received drunken abusive note from her. Seriously rethinking our friendship - sounds horribly rationally and cold but how can you sustain a friendship with someone like that. I know the behaviour 'comes' from the alcohol but thats so much a part of what she does/hpw she lives. Ah me. Any tips anyone??

     Am off for a big sweet cup of tea (with honey - I think Bee Queen should be made an honourary frogger-wasn't she great!)

     Anyway wants me I'm hiding in the dunes x

209. At 11:03 AM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     I just noticed - thats one of my straplines (before I was truly settled with my frogger identity) Am v excited - thats made up fpr a really crappy start!!
     

210. At 11:13 AM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     WW (208),

     Put her in touch with AA. It may be best to ring AA yourself and ask for Alanon, which is a support organisation for friends and families of alcoholics. They may advise you how the subject might be best approached.

     AA is the only system with a really positive success rate. Believe me, I know, but only as a family member. I've been the lucky one, with many appetites but no addictions. There but for fortune....

     xx
     ed

211. At 11:16 AM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Appy (204),

     I just wish you could crawl in beside me in the treehouse (strictly platonic (if you wish)) for a nice supportive cuddle and a sunrise awakening.
     xxxxx
     ?????
     ed

212. At 11:17 AM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Belinda (205);
     US golfer Craig 'The Walrus' Stadler played at the US Masters last weekend. I saw him on the telly. Does this count?

     Witchi (208);
     You can't. Give up. Don't deal with drunks and alcoholics.

     Si.

213. At 11:28 AM on 13 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

     More mail has arrived! Will leave it on the bar...

     Having second thoughts about all those celebs coming round tomorrow, as their contracts will prohibit us from reading their blog entries. Conversations, whilst lively and stimulating, will appear one-sided at best, and disjoined as well.

     So, apologies to all the female froggers who were waiting for the appearance of Johnny Johanson or George Best or whoever it was from Mars.

     I have a much better proposition : a Masked Ball on the Beach.

     Will fill you ALL in later on, once all the twiddley bits have been sorted. Wil need all your help and support for this one, though

     Big Hugs all round today.

     n-n
     xx

214. At 12:23 PM on 13 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     witchiwoman (209) Congratulations!. But "professionals"- are you sure?

     Ap (204) - Thanks, that has really cheered us all up, no end. Here's something to brighten your day though. Move on from donkeys and elephants - Belinda at (205) is providing an opportunity to play tag with a walrus.

     n-n (213) Oh dear. Did you really have to use the word Ball? I've had no end of trouble with Ap and Aunt Dahlia and others about the sphericals. I see trouble ahead.

215. At 12:52 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Ed and Si - thanks and hugs to both of you! I should have known to expect a slight disparity of views:)

     RJD - what would your choice of words be?

     Tapas type selection on the bar with a lovely Chianti, off to have a quick dip.

216. At 12:53 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Apologies if I came across as somewhat forlorn in my 204 -- and thank you for the kind offer Ed! -- it was more a vaguely philosophical explanation for my still being on the frog at nearly 2am. Actually I feel like that most nights and rarely want to go to bed. (In the morning it is my favourite place on Earth and I don't want to get out of it.) I'm told that this has been the case since birth. Anyhoo...

     Witchi/Victoria, Congrats and thank you for your concern.

     RJD, Belinda -- "goo goo g'joob!"

     Nikki Noodle (214) Oh but I wanted the fit boys! Where are the fit boys going to be? And how will we know under all those masks??? I'm not convinced about this change... Boys. Always tinkering with their balls... (that do for you RJD?)

217. At 01:08 PM on 13 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Ap - Thank you. I knew you wouldn't let me down.

     Got a letter in the office last week asking us if we wanted to buy tickets for the Mayor's Ball. A colleague asked if it was a dance or a raffle.

218. At 01:09 PM on 13 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     witchiwoman (215) - Why, "consummate professionals" of course! And I'm jealous - haven't had a strapline in ages.

219. At 01:24 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     I would if I could get near enough to the valve RJD.

220. At 01:38 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Appy - glad everything is ok! Am more of a lark than an owl so am a little jealous; although there is something luscious about being around in the mornings before anyone else has depoiled the day!

221. At 01:57 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Humph wrote:

     haven't had a strapline in ages.

     Oh right RJD (218), and how do you think that makes me feel, eh?

     H.

222. At 02:04 PM on 13 Apr 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

     Congrats WW aka VO! I sent in a total of thirty so far... not a sausage; they build up all hopes before screwing them up and tossing them into the WPB!! Must try harder...

     RJD / Appy

     tee hee!!!

     n-n
     xx

223. At 02:06 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Appy,

     Actually I feel like that most nights and rarely want to go to bed. (In the morning it is my favourite place on Earth and I don't want to get out of it.)

     I used to be a lark, but it's soooo nice lying in bed watching the birds and squirrels feeding and the sun rising, I also have a hard time getting round to tossing the duvet aside...You'd think sleeping outdoors would assure early rising, but it just ain't so. My offer remains open of course.

     ?????
     ed
     

224. At 02:07 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Belinda wrote:

     Walrus Watch: W2 (who I am naming Willie) has moved a little bit. I'm very excited.

     Thank you for all your sightings of Walruses - John Lennon included. I'll keep them in my little walrusology log-book.

225. At 02:10 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     RJD (218) - of course! Obvious now you've said it! Don't worry about lack of strapline action (?!), I sent that ages ago in the first few days of my froggerness....how time flies! :)

226. At 02:25 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     I yearn to be an owl but have a lark lifestyle (i.e. toddlers who wake at dawn!). Speaking of which (and all this talk of tinkering with balls reminded me!!), my 4 year old announced this morning - when we were discussing what to be when grown up - that he didn't want to be a footballer as "footballers have to have hard balls, I don't want to play with hard balls, I want to be a builder"....it made me smile anyway.

     Well am off for a quick dip before I return to April, before I go a colleague just returned from a trip to Brussels and brought back some extremely delicious Belgian choccies, have sneaked some down here to share. Better be quick though...

227. At 02:33 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Witchi;
     I don't (unusually) discount Ed's idea. He may be onto a winner. But the motivation for anyone attempting the cure has to come from themselves. If their own heart is not in it then they will fail.

     I saw enough students of the brewers art in the Navy, which has (if I recall rightly) the second worst rate of alcoholism of any occupation in the U.K. The worst being doctors of medicine.

     They usually got shunned by the lads and the luckier ones got onto the Forces own in-house Occupational Therapy course. I knew one guy who did the course three times. He died of cirrhosis within two years of leaving the Navy.

     Serious boozers are serious trouble for anyone who gets involved with them, hence my suggestion to simply keep away.

     Si.

228. At 02:55 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Si - again thanks, I am tending towards self preservation with this. Am aware that if she doesn't want help or feel there is a problem than anything I suggest is a non starter. Its just hard seeming someone self destruct and alienate everyone around her.

229. At 03:04 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Fiona wrote:

     Hi witchi - having experienced this from a closer range than I would ever have wished for within my own family all I can say as well is that they absolutely have to want to help themselves, if they don't then no amount of pushing, cajoling, shouting, comforting etc etc will help, sad but true. Good luck x

230. At 03:15 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Si and WW,

     It's true that the impetus has to come from the afflicted. That's why I suggested Alanon, who have a depth of experience in the matter, including ways to help the onset of self-recognition on the part of the subject.

     AA is said to be a group who sit around talking about their bottoms. A "story" meeting is a thing to be enjoyed with both tears and laughter, as someone tells the tale of just how low they got before hitting bottom. Recommended.

     xx
     ed

231. At 03:33 PM on 13 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Ap (219) - Ah, don't do that! No! Aghhhh. PHSSSSSSssssSssSsssssssssssssssssssssssssss........

232. At 03:41 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Witchi - I have on file a fascinating thread from a business e-network I used to belong too: recovering alcoholics, family/friends of, and professionals debating whether AA is any good.

     Contact me via website link if you would like me to send it.

     The gist that I took from it was, AA is the obvious place to send someone with a drink problem. But it will only substitute one addiction for another, and the failure rate is surprisingly high.

     For my money, Ed's suggestion of Alanon is the right one, and after following / not following their advice, walk away.

     Because Si is also right: you can't do it for her, and even supporting her on the journey will be more than enough to kill your friendship anyway.

     Sorry to be so gloomy!

     Bacon butties to MY recipe are on the bar: butter was too hard so I used dijon mustart, shavings of onion, sliced tomato, fresh wholemeal bread, black pepper.

     Do dig in!

     Fifi ;o)

233. At 03:42 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Ed - I will investigate but don't hold out much hope!

     Fiona - thanks; I can't imagine how difficult it is to witness up close, hard enough to deal with at arms length (plus I have the option to turn my back).

     Thanks Froggers, you're a great bunch! x
     

234. At 03:52 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Tip for the straplorn ones:

     Change your name to 'F-I-F-I'.

     All of you.

     It'll work!

     
     Fifi (the original and apparently the best)

     
     ;o)

235. At 04:06 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Sara wrote:

     Hi everyone - it's September again back on the main thread so I thought I would drop down to the beach for a mo and get some rays.

     Am interested in what you are all saying about alcholics as there is apparently trouble in my young in-law's family: mother very depressed at finding herself suddenly the chief carer for dad who has become wheelchair bound, and she has taken to the bottle. Sadly she gets very drunk and the word is that she then mistreats dad, who is helpless. The children are demented, I gather (but I can't get too involved as I'm not supposed to know - daughter told me!) I reckon they need Alanon who would be the only people who might help. Obviously they can't just walk away and ignore it all. So sad - I worry for them.

     On a different note - did someone just mention Mair's Ball? Own up, RJD!

236. At 04:36 PM on 13 Apr 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

     Fifi - have just dropped you an email. Thanks sweety x

     Sara - fingers crossed for your in-laws. I hope the find some support from Alanon. Have had a quick look at the site but, irony not intended, youc lead a horse to water etc....

     Right you gorgeous lot - if I don't get to post again take care and have a lovely weekend. Thanks for the info/points of view/advice; really do appreciate the input.

     Love and bright bright blessings to you all

     WW xxx

237. At 05:12 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Chris the Pickle wrote:

     Hi FroGang

     Hubby and I have taken the day off together - just spent a lovely few hours at Heaven's Gate (no, not that one) overlooking Longleat and surrounding countryside, then having a lovely lazy lunch in a gorgeous Inn... Simple things, eh?

     Hope everyone's looking forward to a relaxing weekend.

     :O)

238. At 06:45 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Big Sister wrote:

     A quick wave to froggers - we'll be cleaning our windows this weekend, which will keep us v. occupied (okay, that's a joke) but I may well not get to comment again til Monday, so have a great weekend everyone.

     A big basket of late Easter eggs behind Nick Clarke's Bar, along with some Chocolate Wine, recipe courtesy of a famous chef who specialises in the unusual.

239. At 07:08 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Mustart? What on earth is dijon mustart?

     I think I need a glass of something red and fruity.

     Vimto, anyone?

     Fifi

240. At 07:23 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     That's a funny looking camel over by the palm trees.

     Could it be that particularly odd reindeer, confused about the time of year?

     It's showing an unwholesome interest in my vimto ... shooo!

     Fifi

241. At 08:41 PM on 13 Apr 2007, ?r???€¡ì ? wrote:

     Brrr! It's September out there.

     It's almost as cold as Greenland. Thanks, Belinda, and no, you're not spamming, I've had a grumble about a pigdog workman in here. Very therapeutic.

     Appy, I'm intrigued by your "international knowhole". And I agree about bed. Been that way since I was tiny.

242. At 10:33 PM on 13 Apr 2007, stewart m wrote:

     We have some vimto. Kids love it. It was not a northumbrian ootion when i was a lad. Mother never bought it anyway! Anyway we have three bats flying about. Not sure where they are living but I'm sure two of them were flirting.

243. At 11:13 PM on 13 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Ah, I've finally struggled back to the beach. I'm scanning the photos I managed to grab, so I'll try and put some up in the flickering place. No, as I catch up on the Now Show, can anyone point me towards an open bottle of something alcoholic? Ta!

     Oh, Appy? I think you had the wrong knowhole! Pink lace is definitely NOT my style :-p

     grrrrrr. I just had Server not found when I tried to frog:(

244. At 11:47 PM on 13 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Ed, re I also have a hard time getting round to tossing the duvet aside... I am trying to behave myself but you are not making it easy! I am going to be very restrained and say nothing about the vigour needed for that sort of thing in the morning... close one though eh? You are right about mornings and when I do witness early ones I really do enjoy them -- last time I went out for an early walk I came face to face with a deer. Lovely! But mostly I just get up when I have to -- which is an hour before the last morning swim so I can get half an hour in the water -- not before. It is illegal to get up early on a weekend.

     RJD, sorry I let you down :-( Here, let me reinflate you. Where do I blow?

     Ah. And I was doing so well.

245. At 12:15 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Are you sure about that Fearless (244)? It looked a lot like you.

     Ed I, is that offer still open? I've got don't-want-to-go-to-sleep-itus again... :-(

246. At 12:17 AM on 14 Apr 2007, ?r???€¡ì ? wrote:

     Yippee, Friday 13th is over. Phew.

247. At 12:35 AM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Flippin' eck that Vimto's strong! Can't believe down the beach!

248. At 01:42 AM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Appy (245),

     I've got a small dog just keeping yur space warm. The offer is good until cancelled (unlikely in the extreme).

     ¡¶????¡·±ð»å
     

249. At 09:20 AM on 14 Apr 2007, LadyPen wrote:

     Oh Ed . . . that is soooooooooo sweet :-) You're becoming more like the QuangleWangle by the minnit!

     Coffee, croissants etc on the NCB - where IS everybody? Can't see a thing in this fogbackinApril :-(

     xx
     LadyP

250. At 09:25 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Ffred (243) What, no photos yet on the flickering page?! I expected you to be up all night, posting them! Hope your trip went well. Come and join me for breakfast.......brioche and chocolate spread.....and tell me all about it. ;o)

251. At 09:59 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Stewart M wrote:

     Pah! My 8.20 wake up call has never got here. Get up and enjoy the sunshine. Muggins is working this mornimg. Intend to BBQ later. So get choosing your favorite BBQ foods. I'll keep a bit meat free for the vegetarians.

252. At 10:48 AM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Stewart!

     Don't you dare jinx the weather by annonucing such an intent! What benefit do you expect Veggies to get from free meat?
     ;-)
     ed

253. At 10:58 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Humph wrote:

     Thank you for the advice Fifi (234). Do you think that is what everyone else has been doing? Is that why the name Fifi is attached to so many straplines? Have you seen any straplines with your name on where you have thought "Hang on, I do not remember writing that"?

     Of course, it could be something to do with your e-mail address that gets express treatment at the pee (on) 'em office. Do you think that you could send in some straplines under a different name. A name that begins with, for example . . . um . . . (sniff) . . . the letter H?

     H. :'-(

254. At 11:25 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Cheers Ed (248) and hahahaha! (252).

     LadyPen (249) What's "the QuangleWangle"???

255. At 11:33 AM on 14 Apr 2007, Stewart M wrote:

     Some veggies seem to get upset when the meat juices drip onto the veggie kebabs! I reckon it adds a bit of flavour ;-o

     I'm off to hide now.
     

256. At 11:52 AM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Your Ladyship (249),

     I'm deeply , and you'll be welcome anytime in the Crumpetty Tree.
     ¡¶?????¡·±ð»å

257. At 12:05 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Morning, Gillian! I've flickered this morning:-) Not many photos, I'm afraid, as it was a work trip...

     So, is there any coffee left?

258. At 12:36 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     , for those who can't read the caption. Be honest and tell me if you've ever seen this flower before.

     xx
     ed

259. At 01:46 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

     Am at work so just a flying visit - Ed I how do you do those nice big hollow ?'s?
     Humph - that's a very sad crying smiley! How many have you sent them?
     FFred - (and I quote Roberto!) Great Blog!
     

260. At 04:09 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     I give up Ed

     :-( I've just had a trawl through the Royal Horticultural Encyclopedia of garden plants but to no avail. Interesting chive type leaves.

     Whereabouts on the beach did you find it ?

261. At 04:17 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Simon thinks it's some wort of pineapple plant ? I doubt it though

262. At 04:41 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

     Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.... Where they're always glad you came....

     Hey, that rhymes.

     I've made carrot and coriander soup, in case anyone else missed lunch.

     I wish I knew what happened. Suffice to say, it was enough to send me scurrying back to the beach. And reeeelaaaaax....

263. At 05:39 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

     Ed - don't know what your plant is but it looks like it's growing on a pine tree of some description!

264. At 05:50 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     No sign of my answer to Gossipmistress, so here goes again:

     start/all programs/accessories/system tools/character map (right-click and make a shortcut).

     Arial Unicode MS or Batang fonts are full of interesting stuff
     ?????????
     ed ????

265. At 05:55 PM on 14 Apr 2007, wrote:

     GM (263),

     Nah! A pine would look like !

     xx
     ????
     ed

266. At 06:09 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Molly wrote:

     Anna Rex
     any chance of posting the C&C recipe?
     love a 'tried and tested'as they say.

     Mollyxx

267. At 06:17 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

     The cava's JUST cold enough now - I tried it. Plenty in the fridge for everyone.

     I just saw a lady-camel faint; it seems to have been looking at some botanical images on the web...

268. At 07:55 PM on 14 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Ffred (257) Thanks for the photos.....it looks a remarkable place. Glad you managed to appreciate it in spite of your limited opportunities, and hope you are grounded for a while now - tell them to send somebody else for once!

269. At 10:25 AM on 15 Apr 2007, Anne P. wrote:

     Just dashing through on the way to the April garden, sorry haven't had time to catch up properly - allotment, garden (weeds!), offspring's problems, elderly parents and didn't even manage to hear the programme on Friday as a friend arrived full of recent holiday in Egypt just as I'd sat down to listen - think I'll aim for some quiet time on the beach later to recover.

     Darjeeling on the bar next to the croissants.

     Francis - yes the cursor seems to have acquired a small line at right angles about 20% down from the top - strange, not sure if it's functional.

270. At 10:36 AM on 15 Apr 2007, Val P wrote:

     Ok - so what have I done to offend the Frog? Not only did my Thursday night post for Fearless in Budapest not appear, but now my next one, complaining about same, on Saturday night hasn't shown up either?????

271. At 12:30 PM on 15 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Ed I (270) Some sort of hybrid Larch? Whatever it is, it's very pretty.
     You're right about the frog....it's jumping about all over the place! Hope you get this message soon, before it too disappears into the ether

272. At 12:50 PM on 15 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Ap (244) - Could you please join me at the far end of the beach. I really think we should have a quiet talk.

273. At 01:38 PM on 15 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Anna Rex (267),

     Was the culprit?

     xx
     ed

274. At 03:16 PM on 15 Apr 2007, Gillian wrote:

     Me (270) It looks like I've been talking to myself again.......
     Ed I (whatever....some random number) Seems Mrs RJD on today's beach also thinks it's a larch. Are we voting on it?

275. At 05:27 PM on 15 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Certainly RJD (271), lead on.

276. At 08:05 PM on 15 Apr 2007, Anna Rex wrote:

     Ed - Goodness! There are she-camels fainting all over the place. Who'd have thought.. well... my goodness... I need to lie down.

     Ap / RJD - I do hope you've both given each other a stern talking to. Think you need to give one another a good telling off.

     Really, on a Sunday too. Some of us have been... well, let's just say, doing slightly more edifying activities. Only slightly, mind you. Now, could someone just fix me a big stiff (RJD STOP IT) G&T?

     ps I feel like giving someone a massage. It makes me feel good. Not in a dodgy way. And strictly above the chest (oh, and feet. I do feet. Please paddle first though). Any takers?

277. At 08:30 PM on 15 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Ooh yes please Anna Rex -- neck and shoulders are definitely in need. (But I don't like my feet to be touched so I will leave that bit for someone who will appreciate it.)

278. At 11:30 AM on 16 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     PUSH!

279. At 01:07 PM on 16 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Where oh where did all the missing posts go? Gossipmistress and others were here and then not here... Mystery stalks the Frogosphere...

     And, P.S.

     ;-) ed

280. At 01:57 PM on 16 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Put your shoulder to it, Appy!

281. At 02:21 PM on 16 Apr 2007, RJD wrote:

     Ed I (273) - That's a stinkhorn - yes? (Phallus Impudicus - and for once I'm not joking)

     In student days, on a terrestrial ecology field trip, I remember we found one of the "eggs" and brought it back to the lab and crudely "time-lapse" photographed it during the night. The speed of development was astounding - as was the smell!

282. At 02:46 PM on 16 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Well done RJD! And I hope this effort gets through (four times I've frogged congrats to Mrs RJD and Gillian, but gone to limbo).

     The 'eggs' are said to be a delicacy, but I've never tried them.
     xx
     ed

283. At 06:30 PM on 16 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Ed (279), You are being inexplicable again??? Full of eels? Is that really what he's saying?

     What am I doing still on this beach anyway????

284. At 06:37 PM on 16 Apr 2007, wrote:

     Flied or boiled, Mista Fled?
     Öª
     Õß
     ²»
     ÑÔ¡£
     ÑÔ
     Õß
     ²»
     Öª¡£

     ed

285. At 12:26 AM on 17 Apr 2007, Aperitif wrote:

     Sick of pushing but feel compelled.