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So long, farewell Hollyoaks: hello, Palladium

Those of us who have proper jobs will have to wait until this weekend’s omnibus to see Andrew Lloyd Webber’s 3-episode cameo in Hollyoaks, which sees wannabe actress Summer Shaw (played by Summer Strallen) stalk the peer until he gives her an audition for Connie’s replacement in The Sound of Music.

Of course, Strallen herself is already contracted to take on the role of Maria. And now Lord Lloyd-Webber has admitted that Strallen’s character in the soap was concocted after Strallen had already been cast for the Palladium job:

The proposal initially came from Coronation Street producer Tony Wood. But Lord Lloyd-Webber turned him down, until Wood moved to Hollyoaks and the idea was revived.

Strallen was cast as the replacement for How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria? winner Connie Fisher six months ago.

The 23-year-old then entered Hollyoaks in October.

I’m in two minds about this. On the plus side, it shows that people are thinking of more and more ways of promoting the joys of live theatre to a TV audience. On the other, the character of ‘Summer Shaw’ was often presented as single-minded, selfish, obsessed with fame and frequently unlikeable. While every profession has people like that, it’s hardly the best impression of actors to expose to a teenage audience.

I’m also wary of any blurring of the lines between dramatic presentation and advertising — it comes dangerously close to product placement. Is creating whole storylines and characters for the purposes of promoting a product or service really the way we want our television drama to go?

1636 Comments

Whoo Hoo - I'm first!! Thank you for the new home Scott!!

Phew, found you! Nice digs -- we have a pretty sweet landlord. Thanks, Scott!

Thank you again Scott. I was only thinking this morning that we would need a new home soon.

OOh, I,ve just finished reading everything and thought I'd be first! Boo to you Ali B!

I've finished putting the poster together now have to wait for the glue to dry. I've already photographed it and sent it to Martin; he should get it when he arrives home, so it should be on the pictures site later this afternoon.

The Completed Squares Project is now on the Loppie Ladies album.

http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4

Thank you Scott. If you ever need a reference for your appropriate skills and suitablitiy as a Landlord I will be happy to supply one. Exemplary service. Available when we need help. Makes himself scarce most of the time. Provides an excellent repair and maintenance service. Regularly changes the decor. And dare we even begin to hope - Security of Tenure?????

Well done Geri. Deadlines are not a lot of fun, are they?? Looking forward to seeing everyone's different 'take' on the brief. Mine is very different to the others I have seen. Am amongst the OMG wish I hadnt bothered brigade now!! Hey Ho.

Chapter Thirteen (cont'd)

An hour later he was still wandering. The paths crisscrossed in a bewildering way and there seemed no pattern to them. He had been so sure, so certain of his path, but he was now hopelessly lost. Worse, the sun had left the sky and only a few raspberry coloured streaks left a memory of daylight. The silence was oppressive. He had lost track of time and had no way of knowing if the others were out yet; no way of knowing if the challenge had ended and he was already defeated. Where were his friends? Were they outside already enjoying themselves, having a fest without him? He hadn’t really understood how much he relied on their support. Boyz would be out, of course. He was a born knight, gifted and intelligent; there was no way he’d get lost here. Like him.
He was tired and sat on the grass. This part of the pathway was obviously unused and he found that discouraging. He decided to think about it logically. He had been so sure he’d found the answer, was he wrong? Or was he still headed the right, if untried, way? He wished he could sing, it would comfort him, even a few bars of Knight-dream Believer, but he didn’t dare risk being disqualified.
Suddenly, the sky overhead sparkled with fireworks. Red, green, amber and blue, they flashed through the sky in the wake of a long fizzing noise and a crackle. Something about them gave him hope and he rose to his feet. It was the loppies, he decided, they weren’t breaking the rules; the fireworks were an aid to every knight equally. They seemed to be pointing in a particular direction – away from the path he was on. He hesitated. Was he so wrong? He decided he must be; the loppies wouldn’t lead him astray. He turned around and followed the fireworks in the opposite direction.
The path became smoother, easier to walk and the foliage around him became more verdant. He could smell honeysuckle and there were roses now on the bushes, soft red petals lush and beguiling…He hesitated. Was his instinct really so wrong? He decided to go on to the end of the path just to be sure and then make up his mind. He’d taken no more than a step or two when Throb the Thatcher suddenly grabbed him with a loud, “No!” and pushed him into the bushes.
He lay dazed amid the roses, an angry protest on his lips, but the words were not spoken. There before him Throb slid on the path where Lee was about to step and slipped into a deadly pool of quicksand. In an instant he was up to his waist and was sinking fast.
“I couldn’t let you walk into it, Lee,” he said. “I wasn’t born to run to victory, but you were.”
Lee ran to help him but Throb was now up to his armpits in the deadly sand.
“Don’t help me!” he cried. “And don’t say anything, either! I’m lost, Lee, but you’re not. You have to go all the way and become a knight of the Order of Joseph. You deserve it. Tell Lady Margaret and Lord Dennis I said goodbye. And tell my brother Mark he can have my collection of Thatchers’ Monthly magazines…”
Lee leaned forward and tried to grasp Sir Throb’s hand, but he could not reach. He lay on the ground and stretched out as far as he could, but it was useless. There sand made an ugly sucking sound and Sir Throb vanished beneath it.
Sir Lee rose and turned back the way he had come, unaware of his direction or of the tears that coursed down his cheeks. The fireworks were gone now, and he stumbled through the darkness. He was cold, a deep numbing cold that was even more intense than he had felt at the top of the tower. He felt utterly alone; all his friends were out there, together, he knew, enjoying themselves and forgetting all about him. And Throb, poor enthusiastic Throb, had sacrificed himself so he, Lee, could survive the challenge. He wanted to scream his frustration, but that would make Throb’s sacrifice useless, and he was determined not to do that. He bit his lip and wept silently.
The path was rough and difficult again, and the brambles increasingly thick and sharp. He stumbled into the foliage and tore his cloak and his hands, but didn’t notice. Where was he going, what was he doing? He was so tired of it all. He should have stayed home in Sou’sea. He stopped still in astonishment. The exit was right before his eyes, and a small, wavy haired loppy was waiting for him.
She took his hand as he stumbled out onto the grassland. Without speaking she put her arms around him and he wept bitter tears onto her shoulder.
“It’s all right, darling,” she murmured. “Let Praline take care of you.”
She rocked him gently in her arms and after a time he became calm again. She handed him a small dark green handkerchief. “This is FiFi’s,” she said. “But I don’t think she’d mind you having it.”
He wiped his eyes and managed to calm. “Sorry,” he said. “Crying like a little girl.”
“Don’t fret,” she said. “Do you feel better now?”
He nodded. “Where are the others?” he asked.
“Coming out from various exits. Come on, I’ll take you to the camp site.”
“There’s more than one exit?” he asked.
“Certainly, because there’s more than one path.”
“I thought it was the career path,” he said. “And that there were distractions along the way to try to lead me astray from the path I was meant to take. But then I saw the fireworks, and I thought the loppies had sent them.”
“Not us, love,” Praline said. “Another distraction. You’re right about the maze, it is your career. And just as your choices can lead you to lasting success or something flashy but fleeting depends on how you choose. But the path is full of traps – as you saw. Some are momentarily beguiling, like a chart success; others are more deadly, like appearing on ‘I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here.’”
“And Throb – poor Throb! It should have been me that got sucked into that quicksand.”
“I don’t think Throb would consider it a sacrifice, to give up his chance for you. He did what a true knight does – risk himself for others. I don’t think we’ve heard the last of him.”
The others were all together at the campsite, singing and eating. “Well, about time!” Boyz and Charming said when they saw him. They ran to greet him but one look at his face turned their joy to ashes.
He mumbled an explanation about Throb, and they, too, began to weep.
“We haven’t heard the last of him,” Sir Jack-wow (the third) said, echoing Praline. “His sacrifice proves him a true knight. He may never become king of Adelphi, but he’ll do well in panto and cabaret, I’m sure.”
“Am I the last one out?” Sir Lee asked as he joined them at the campfire. He didn’t think he’d ever be warm again.
“No. Sir John of Deep hasn’t come out, either.”
They looked at one another in silence and Lee shivered.

Hi All, just woke up, took your advice Geri and went back to sleep only to be woken about 10mins ago by the neighbours' builder using some huge kind of drill, omg, if I hadn't a headache before I certainly have one now! Sorry to be such a moan.
On the other hand it's great to see a new thread, thankyou Scott, I'm new here and it's taken me weeks to catch up on the general trend of conversation which I think is great and so funny at times. Now I really feel "up to date"!

what talent..... Geri. eggsellent. Well done Rob The Thatcher. Poor Sir John of Deep - hope he doesn't come to a too sticky end.

Scott Darling - thank you sooo much! Geri have to finish a report and then I will read the next chapter!!!!

Great work again Geri, you do us proud, was having quite a giggle the other day when
imagining Lee and Daniel(in real life) getting to read the tale from the start (in private) and would I give to be a fly on a wall to hear what they really thought! Warm thoughts to all loppies, just looking at sky weather report, brrr! it's like "The Day After Tomorrow"!

Oh Geri, you're amazing. I'm desperate to find out how you end the tale but at the same time I don't want it to finish for ages.

Martin, my best to Maggie.

I'm too jealous for words, well, not completely....
To own the complete set of Thatchers Monthly mags and to be Praline..! What more could they both want?

Forgot to ask if it's too late to contribute to the squares as I'd completely forgotten about it not having been on here for ages and not reading all the comments? Please let me know Geri, someone...

Geri - thank you for brightening the day. You are a literary genius and so insightful.

I shouldn't be reading this during working hours but I'm counting the hours until 5pm when I can escape for the weekend. Only one more week and I'm off on my MT trip.

Karen2 - sorry to hear you are not feeling well. Take care of yourself. You have to be in tiptop shape for your trip next month.

Brilliant as always, Geri.
Pauline, what a lucky girl!

Thanks, all. Should really be writing my 'serious' stuff, but I needed the break.

Sorry, Debbie, the project is finished, just waiting for the glue to dry before I take it to the framers.

Have fun on your trip, Jenny, bring back lots of lovely pictures. Maybe one of the London loppies can get to meet you while you're in town?

Oh well. Thanks for letting me know Geri. It's my own fault. Maybe I'll have to devise my own thing to send.

Oops just remembered - Gillian, if you're still around, have a great hol.

Oooh a new home! Thanks Scott, you lovely landlord you!

Geri - so glad you warned us about needing tissues! That one's so sad! (sniff! sniff), but brilliant too! And lucky Praline!

Still haven't had a chance to look at those squares - will have to be patient as I'm off to the pub! I know! You're shocked! But hey ho!

Hope you're feeling better soon Karen 2 - and hope you have a lovely trip Jenny - going to see anything interesting?

Just read the latest episode - oohh poor Sir Lee! Lucky Praline! OOhhmms to all poorly Loppies and wave for Debbie! Had a quick peek at the squares and although not a masterpiece the little bit of mine you can see didn't look too dreadful (probably distance lends enchantment). Off out for tapas after the office so will catch up later!

...And that is why
All exiles are distinguished
More important, they're not dead...
Was it a quiz to ID the rest of the line, Carol? Is there a prize??

Oo a new home (thanks Scott) and a new chapter (thanks Geri - will go back and read it in a mo), loppy squares (thanks again Geri) and just arrived home to the DVD's (huge thank you Gillian).

Ah, so glad it's Friday!

Right off to catch up and read the next instalment!

Thanks for the new home again Scott (or your alter ego Deputy Scott dear etc etc). Wonderful new episode Geri, I'm completely hooked!

Have a good weekend everyone. My laptop came yesterday so, provided I have no probs connecting up (!), I should be online this weekend. Wrap up warm!

Just a thought - we have the loppy rules and Geri's piccies on our Loppy Ladies photo album, do you think it worth asking the lovely Martin to do a General Loppy matters album for us so people (ie. those from LMAS) don't need to plough through all our mug shots??

Just had a reply from Stephanie:

In addition to the 3 photos in the Stage, she has about another 20 on file if anyone is interested! The other sizes/costs are:
18"x 12" size £35 each
16" x 20" size (poster) £60 each
She would like me to co-ordinate the orders.

I suggest those who want to order, email me either direct or via stageloppies/Shirley with the size and page no. the photo appeared on - deadline say Tuesday 12 Feb. I'll then advise Stephanie - if there's high interest, you never know the costs might come down a bit. I'll then confirm costs with those interested and organise payment.
If anyone has a better idea, let me know - it's Friday afternoon and the brain's not at it's best!

Shirley, I'll reply to Stephanie on Monday and mention you also want photos to raise funds as well.

I'm outta here.

Crikey, you lot have been busy on here today!

Geri - love the new chapter (love the "fest").

Martin - love to Maggie and her mum and to you for keeping the album going amidst all your trauma.

Carol - love the idea of a Loppy meet with Ploppies included. I think my Ploppy would love to meet all the people who keep me so entertained and amused all the time.

Love all the squares - what a talented bunch and well done Geri for managing to fit it in amongst everything else. BTW, did you say you were having it framed? Do we owe you money? Sorry, if I've missed that bit but just let me know and I'll sort it.

Karen2 - hope you feel better soon. Am loving the idea of Lee reading Geri's story.

Just reading my post back - there's a lot of loving going on here, isn't there!!

Carol - mug shots??? Don't you mean photos of lots of beautiful loppies??? If people have to trawl through they might as well enjoy the view on the way (or have a laugh, whichever!!). Good idea though!

**!!!!!!!!***** aaaaggggghhhh, heaven, I'm in heaven. Thankyou sooo much Geri I am just lost for adequate words. Think this is my favourite bit so far, I wonder why?!!! Seriously, love it, especially Throbs' farewell, well after my starring role!
Not thinking too clearly, but mustn't forget to thankyou Scott for our lovely new home. I don't know I go out for lunch and when I come back you've moved having cleaned the old home and unpacked in the new one, wonderful!
Just off to look at the squares.
Oh sorry Karen2 have an ohhhhmmm and hope you are better soon.
Maybe I'll just read the chapter again first!

Last check in before I go off on hols, thanks for the messages, I hope all poorly loppies and Maggies mum recover.

I'm not remotely ready for departure, and ploppy hasn't even started packing his stuff, and I have to go out this evening to my video club's AGM, can't miss it as I'm Hon Sec, but not after tonight, new one will be voted in. One less distraction:))

See you next weekend.

Hi ladies,
Long time no hear from me, well on here anyway. Shirley gave me the link to Geri's story, I really like it. Well done Geri, I really admire writers who can pen amusing stuff, I can't unfortunately.

I saw Lee at the Wednesday matinee with a couple of loppies from the forum. It was great as usual - Lee just gets better and better. As we were sitting at the front of the upper circle I took my trusty binoculars with I definitely think he must have overdone the sunbathing as he had a red patch on his shoulder - it looked as if it was sore and peeling a bit - did you notice it at the evening performance Shirley?

Hi Deanna - great to have you back. Yes, did get sight of a little rosie patch on shoulder (the PA didn't do a very good job them?? - but he is a boy, so probably only got her to put the cream on AFTER he burnt - ah bless, isn't he lovely???)
Gillian (if I haven't missed you)- have a great holiday - if you get there.
Diana - I want them ALL... Can we get to view the 20 that she has on file? I'm sure there are some lovely ones in there - I can't believe that of 23 pictures she only had 3 goodies... he's way too photogenic for that to happen.
Pauline, well I guess you're just way too clever by half and therefore deserve your treats - what with sussing where the kidnap victims were as well... I'll just have to settle with being good with my hands??
Martin - thanks so much for the albums. Sending lots of Oooohhhhhmmmmmms to Maggie and her mum.
Scott D. Magnificent - we missed you on Wednesday. Had a pressing engagement did you? Well thanks all the same for rehousing us. I'm with you re your comment "Is creating whole storylines and characters for the purposes of promoting a product or service really the way we want our television drama to go?" Could be that ALW is just discovering how much fun TV can be.. and pushing the envelope (lets hope he doesn't rip the thing to shreds tho).
Right - off home now (been a late night at the office dear..) straight home and no stopping off at the pub..
See you all later.

Karen, I had expected to defray the costs of framing and mailing on my own. I doubt it'll be too expensive (she said trustingly), but if it gets scary I'll let you know. As an alternative to cash, I'd be happy to accept any Lee goodies that anyone wants to send; the currency conversion makes it difficult for me to participate in most stuff.

Pauline2, aren't you glad you guessed right? You may never wash that shoulder again. And Fi got a mention too, since she came second. (Don't worry, Fi. You'll be around later).

Lovely to hear from you again, Deanna. You've been away too long. Welcome back.

Scott dear,- I'm back and I found our new home. Thank you. Imagine letting us share with The Lord himself!
Sorry I'm so late to post, but it took me a long time to catch up here. Go away for a few days at your peril! First of all:
Martin,- please tell Maggie we are thinking of her and her mother.
Geri,- you genius! First you had me cry, then you had me shiver. When you sent the poor Sir Lee into the maze, I was with him all the way, feeling his fears. I'm slightly claustrophobic and the last time I was in a maze (at Leeds Castle) I nearly had a panic attack when I couldn't find my way out. Sir Throb din't deserve that ending, so I hope he'll be back. Lovely lad. And thank you for using one of my names,- Sir John of Deep. I'm proud.
Then I suppose you'd like to hear about Wednesday, would you? Meeting the Loppies, some old friends, some new faces was lovely as always. The bliss of others understanding the importance of the questions : Has Lee shaved his legs again or not? Which scarf does he suit best? Being able to ask these and not being laughed out of court is wonderful and being with people who understand what is important in life !!!
And then there was Lee!!!!! I swear he gets more gorgeous every time I see him, and as the others have said,- he was on top form singing and dancing and clearly delighted to be back. Delighted as well with the wonderful receptive audience who wouldn't stop cheering at the end. When I first got to my seat, Row A in Dress circle, I sat next to two elderly gentlemen. While we were waiting for the show to start, they were talking about operas they'd been to and Shakespeare plays the'd seen. They were obvoiusly knowleadgeble theatre goers, and I thought to myself that maybe the had come to the wrong play. But not at all. They clearly loved every minute of it, applauding loudly after every song, and getting to their feet clapping and smiling at the end. It just goes to show,- Joseph and Lee can entertain everyone. While we were filing out of our row, I asked them: You enjoyed it then? And both of them nodded, smiled and said they had loved it, and wasn't Lee fantastic? What could I do but agree?
Standing outside waiting for the after show show, I was standing right behind Shirley2 and Carolyn, so when they'd had their program signed, I managed to wriggle forwards to their place. I had brought with me a Lee Mead calendar I have made just for private use, and would try to get Lee to sign it. When he was in front of me, I held it out to him. He looked down, did a double take and said: "What is this, then?", and I answered:"It's a calendar. I made it myself". He gave me one of his megawatt smiles, and from there on things got a bit hazy, but I think he said:"Clever you", signed it, smiled again and gave it back. Pauline caught me on camera at that moment so I know I look absolutely soppy, but I felt like that too, I can asure you.
After that things were a bit blurry, but on the train back to my friends place, I was smiling at my fellow passengers even if I had to stand for half of the way. I'm sure they think I was drunk!!
My friend was waiting for me at the station and I almost fell into the car. She took one look at me and started laughing. " He was wonderful, was he?". "Ooooohhhhhh yes", I said, " and I talked to him!!" "You need a G&T" she said, and that's what I had when we got home.
The next day we went to the hospital for her appointment with the oncologist (My friend had a breast cancer op. 6 monhths ago) and he was very pleased with her. When we got back to the house, we watched WJMM, Christmas Cooks and The Winners Story all afternoon, so that was another wonderful day gone.
I'm back home for a few days before it's back to London again on Monday. My lovely friend is coming with me to the AT show, so I'll be staying over at hers again. This Lee business certainly accounts for a lot of my travelling. I'll now try to catch up on LMAS, and might see you later.

Just popping in to reserve my seat in our new home:-) Was wondering if we should pass comment on Scott's article above..lol but having never watched Hollyoaks am not qualified! Did you see the photo of Summer in the Daily Mail ? (entertainment section) must go see if it is online. Love the squares Geri - I didn't send one myself not any good at crafts but I did have a tiny part to play in its construction which will remain a mystery:-)

Hi geri - i did notice my mention tho not sure as green so not my colour!! - but I am sure it was a turquoise green ie blue. Should have known it was career path/maze - as a career adviser I spend my life helping people thro the maze of their career. However have just been offered a new job today at higher level in a new area of work so have to spend weekend working out my own career path - where is a good career adviser when you need them - do you think Sir Lee could help me thro this maze. Or perhaps i could ask Scott cos i want to make sure I end up with a proper job.

maeve and carol _ i too feel totally inadequate square wise. reminds me of school of total embarrasment when textile teacher took my work home to make some minor adjustments ie totally redo.

deanna - welcome back.

Shirley - thanks for confirming t shirt order. Will try and get cheque to you but e mails till not working.

Gillian - have a brill hol.

Scollop away all day and night tomorrow so had thought of jaunt to coast but just going to check out if will get snowed in there. then off to join jane E at pub.

Given the liking for puns on this blog, are all the poorly loppies illegals ? (Ill Lee Gals).

Hi Deanna nice to hear from you, waving.
Carys? this is a bit early for you isn't it?! and then you make enigmatic comments, ah well a mystery it is then. Believe me if being good at crafts was a prerequisite for the squares I for one would not have managed it!
Hello Pen, now what on earth makes you think we like puns? Illegals, clever.
Fi it's going to be cold tomorrow, the pub sounds good to me!
Geri, I'm not sure which shoulder it was so washing could become problematical! Still grinning at the thought of Sir Lee being rocked gently in my arms, sigh.

Have just managed to fire up this ole' pc so thought I'd say a quick hello before it conks out completly. So hello all! Was lovely to see you all on wednesday - had a fab time and Lee, naturally, was on top form.

Back to work with a bit of a crash but hey, at least its the weekend now. Things have moved on so much on this blog I haven't a clue whats going on, but i guess those who stil remember me I haven't forgotten any of you, just have had to curb my pc time rather radically and actually work for a living which is a pain in the neck but sadly rather necessary...

So with that adieu for another little while (or at least until I can afford a state of the art pc which likes me and does what I want!)
xx

Carol: Your wish is my command, new Loppy Miscellaneous album created and appropriate pics moved to it.

oo'er Carol.. If I had a ploppy, he'd go directly to your training school... how do you do it?
Pen - ha ha, very good. But do introduce yourself. You see we are quite a motley, er I mean friendly bunch.
How are all the Northern Loppies holding out - I'm hearing reports of horrid weather up your way. Wrap up warm now and drive carefully.
Sonja (waves frantically) lovely to see you, even if it's just a quick visit. It was so great to see you, and Nicki, on Wednesday. (waves frantically at Nicki wherever she is).
Well, now that I'm safe a sound at home, I think I might just have a little snifter of Bailey's. Oh no, must have dinner first.. otherwise I'll forget to eat tonight.

Remember there are now a
Loppie Ladies album 76 pics
Ploppy album 1 (lonely) pic
G.O. album 40 pics
Loppy Miscellaneous album 15 pics

all found at

http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4

Very good Pen - like that. And to Karen2 - hope you start feeling better soon.

Deanna - good to see you - and you are most welcome.

Unlike Auds I didnt notice any pink bits. And I cant understand why. I was staring hard enough. I did see several mosquito bites and was speculating to myself if that meant he was O+. Seems that people with that blood group are more attractive to, and react more, to their bites. Certainly holds true in this household, and being the one who is A+ - The only A+ I ever got in my life!!!!

Someone has sent Martin a photo of the Thud teeshirt - presumably with Sue wearing it - but it corrupted en route - no rude comments please - so please can you send it again.

Oh Hello Sonja - waves and waves. Hurry back my friend.

I am sat here watching this Nature programme about the white gerfalcons and the white wolves, and nearly in tears for the female Gerfalcon and her chicks.

Auds- glad you are safely back home. Have a Baileys for me - I like mine on crushed ice. Or in coffee. Or straight.

Gladly Shirley. Anyone else out there would like me to have a Baileys on their behalf. I don't mind how you like it...
Also watching the nature programme - what a precarious life those birds have - and wolves for that matter.

Fi, I'll make sure it's turquoise in the re-
write (geesh, some people are soooo picky!)

Thanks for the help with the project, Carys. You & I know about your mystery assistance...

Hi Sonja, lovely to see you again, hope you get that computer sorted soon.

Karen, I had a reason for putting in the 'fest': There are many loppies who have never been to the show and, because of geography, ill health or other committments, never will get to go. While it's understandable that those who are fortunate enough to make multiple trips to the Adelph want to celebrate long and loud, too much enthusiasm can come across as insensitive to those who aren't so fortunate. Sorry, don't mean to rain on anyone's parade, just wanted to draw attention to an issue that's been bothering a lot of people and they are nervous about expressing it. By the way, I've been twice & will be twice more, so I don't count myself in their number. But let's not forget them. OK?

Hi all did you miss me? No idea what's been happening. Had to do lots of w**k (due to having a day off for something or other), so no time. Have to sort my virus checker before I do anything else.
Scott-Thanks for new home.

Geri - I understand what you're saying but please be assured that I was not intending to cause any offence or be insensitive by commenting that I loved your reference to the fest and now I'm upset to think that I may have, unwittingly, upset somebody else!

Geri, just looked at the finished squares. It looks great. Very creative. What I am wandering about is that I don’t see my square. Did you got mine square through the post? I mailed it 2 weeks ago.

..I just want to point out that Christmas was in green in one of the earlier chapters, so perhaps it was mine!
Martin - big kiss for you! Sorry about the lonely Ploppies, but I did send some more - well I thought I had when I emailed on Monday, so will have another go tomorrow!
Pen - loved the Illegals! You sound as if you have the right mindset to be quite at home here!
London Loppies went to nice Tapas bar near Oxford Circus .....might be a good place for the next London Loppies night out!! OK have to go and sort out some paperwork so I will bid you all goodnight and Sweet Meads!!

Hi Jo4 yes have missed you, have been wondering how the horse was! Of course wanted to know you were ok as well!
Yoohoo Sonja, nice to see you, come back as soon as you can!
Gosh Geri I really am sorry if I've made anybody feel bad. I do know what it's like to read of the excitement when everyone else (or so it seems) is feeling when a big fest is coming up. What's to be done though? I know I'm like an excited teenager when I'm off to see the GO, but as I have said the best thing would be if we could all get together. What an outing that would be!

Oh I didn't want to make anyone feel bad. It's just the, "I've only been 12 times, not counting seeing him at the BBC, and next week, but I really need to see him again..." kind of thing that could be re-thought.

Pen, you should write crosswords! Very Inpector Morse of you (by the way, where's Eva? She's our resident Morse fan.)

Jo4 - I have a great name for you! I thought of it last night and can't wait to use it!!

And yes, Carol, you were in green but it was emerald; Fifi's handkerchief was a very dark green. You rotten lot aren't going to let me forget a single detail! Which reminds me, due to a small technical hitch in the graphics department (AKA Jane's living room), some dress colours will need to be altered in later editions.

Hello Sonja! I don't come on here so often now but I always get a lovely welcome back when I do return. You'll never be forgotten.

Hi Deanna. That is quite a rarely heard name. My mum and dad had friends called Pat and Eric and they had daughters called Sally and Deanna. You are not she are you? I very much doubt it as Deanna sends me a christmas card and letter every year and she hasn't mentioned that she writes saucy novel or loves Lee! Just wondering if it's her little secret...

Auds, you do make me laugh with your public proclamations of adoration for the GO. As much as I think he's gorgeous, talented, shy etc etc, I don't think I could see the show quite as much as you lot. You really ARE all completely mad!!! Good luck to you!

Have a lovely holiday Gillian. Where are you going?

Hope your sloppy feels better soon Maggie.

Ploppy and dollops are away for the weekend as from tomorrow so I'm off to London Sat night to try and see Billy Elliot with on an old school friend. Hoping to get returns as it's really booked up. All day Sunday on my todd. Now what could I do I wonder...?


Back from pub early as got offer of lift home - and baby is it cold outside tonight

Geri - I am picky - but I thought you wouldnt notice! And I am reminded that I didnt say thank you for my inclusion in story - a great honour - so thank you - even if I am the wrong colour!! And I am looking forward to my encore. I also echo Karen's thought re contributing towards framing and posting as you have already put in so much of your time, energy and love to project so dont want you out of pocket too.

Karen - too quote the lovely Donna when people on her forum worrying about offending others "silly bat". How/why would you have offended others. I love the way Geri weaves in different threads and that includes fests. Perhaps Geri you could arrange a fest in the tale for all the left out loppies? Or was that cinderella?

Sonja - are you the same Sonja who used to post on here many eons ago?

Martin - are ploppies lonely by definition?

Anyway have probably had one wine too many but now that Auds has mentioned it (and I do hold you responsible Auds) a Baileys sounds just the thing to round off the eve.

Fi
this ploppy, (although Maggie is in London) is not alone, I have my G.O. ( our little dog Brandy) she is my G.O. and is keeping me company on this cold blustery night. ( although I hear a little snore now and again, but at fifteen I suppose that should be expected)

Martin, I wish my ploppy was fifteen again then maybe his snores would be little.

Debbie
Believe me He can't be as bad as Maggie, she could snore for the world cup, one advantage of her being in London, and if you listen carefully I'm sure you could hear her now.

Hi! I'm back again. It's been a busy night with some very long e-mails to write and some very boring phone calls to answer.
Debbie,- where have you hidden your secret Norwegian? We were talking about it and you on Wednesday. I'm surprised you didn't feel your ears busrning. Fess up, please!
Geri,- surely I can't be the only Morse fan here on the blog, though I will admit to having the complete series on DVD, and to having watched most of them more than once.
Who's talking about illegals? I'm very legal. I came across the border at Gatwick and presented myself very correctly to immigration, only to be told that being Norwegian I didn't need any residential permit at all. The funny bit really came when I presented myself at The Inland Revenue and asked when and how I was supposed to start paying tax! I thought the lady there was going to fall off her chair when I put a big folder filled with all my bank statements, pension statements etc. on her desk, and said here is all you need. She said that had never happened there before,- someone who wanted to pay tax!! I wonder if she has recovered?
I think I'll call it a night now and bid you all a very good night, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams (stay clear of the maze) and wake up happy.

Well my ploppy will be in Manchester tomorrow. Hopefully the snow will snuffle the sound.
Come to think of it, there is a slight rumbling coming from the direction of the big city.

AHA, Eva! Yes, that's right, I've got Morten Harket hidden in the cupboard.

I'll bid farewell too. Night night all. Till we meet again. x

Phew, virus checker all sorted and just caught up. Reminder to self; do not let w**k get in the way of important things.
Geri-Love the story, poor old Throb, lucky Praline. Can't wait for my name, as long as it is not what a woman up the road calls me 'The mad cat lady'.
No news is good news on horse front. He has done what he's done many times before, acutely ill and back to himself the day after. I'll see him tomorrow.
Martin-a star. I have photos, not got around to downloading them yet. If not tonight then tomorrow, I have a SueX modelling THUD shirt (I hope).
Welcome back returning friends.
Jackie- re cat, sorry for the delay. The others have given sound advice. If it is a sudden change in behavour, try to find out why, any changes in your routine, any visitors you don't usually have (they may have cats). With my old chap a few years ago I could never leave any bags on the floor. One of my guys now has a 'need' to wee on the saddle cloths waiting for the wash.
My review from Weds will have to wait. I was intrigued by the changes in staging. Also loved the new narrator, some of the staging changes have improved her interactions.

OOOhhh, just seen the pics of the squares, some lovely work. Shame about the 2 from the five year old, no - not your Carol, mine.

Greetings from snowy Norfolk everyone. Dollop and scollop have had lots of fun making a snowman and snow angels and the house is now full of sopping wet clothes. We seem to get snow so rarely here that we are quite excited and, as it's the weekend, we'll try and find a hill (not an easy undertaking here) for a spot of sledging tomorrow.
Loved chapter 13, Geri - beautifully written and very moving. And what an honour for you, Pauline2 and Fi - well done.
Diana - exciting news re the photos. I'd definitely like one - will enjoy choosing, but - like Auds - wouldn't mind checking out the alternative pictures if possible. Thanks a lot for coordinating this on our behalf.
Gillian - I'm probably too late, but have a good holiday.
Night-night everyone, might see you tomorrow - snow and marking permitting.

Debbie perhaps it's a good idea they are both at opposite ends of the country, or there would be a national earthquake alert

Sorry, I know I've said goodnight but just read Jo4's comment. I'll be going for my second time in a month and what with all the changes, subtle or not, it almost sounds like it'll be a new show. At least it'll seem like that to me having only seen it once in my lifetime. Very exciting.

All caught up again with THUDs and Raffle tickets.

I think I would be saddened if people could not racket around before they go to a show getting excited. It is one of the things that our family and friends in the physical world cannot understand but our Loppy friends can. I love hearing about and sharing people's excitement, and reading their reviews when they come back. I find it helps me get through the gaps between my visits to see Lee.
I dont want to upset people either, but I do feel that the blogg will be very much diminished if we cannot share each others' joys as well as our sorrows. I know that many of us have grown in confidence and now happily take ourselves off to see Lee by ourselves, travelling to London and back without giving it a thought. Read my first review if you have forgotten. It really was such a big deal to me back then. And I know from email conversations I have had with lots of Loppies that many of you have made similar journeys. Both literally and figuratively. So while, as I say, I certainly dont want to gratuitously upset anyone I am very mindful that there is also a huge cost if we lose the wonderfully spontanious happy bouncing around that we go in for from time to time. I for one would miss it hugely.

I guess it is a disadvantage of the way the Blog works. On the Forum you can start a thread and share your excitement with those who want to join you. And those who would prefer not to read it can easily avoid it. Not so easy to do that here.

Martin _ i guess when you are 15 you have acute hearing - to hear the snores - lucky you!

Just watched Britt ekland on JR show, Think i might give face lift a miss.

elizabeth - you are right - it is an honour to appear in Geri's story - so thank you again geri.

Auds - thank you for the Baileys.

What with snow and now earthquakes, it certainly exciting, what next?!
Jo4 pleased the news sounds hopeful for your horse still here's an ohhhhmmmm just to be sure.
Eva, really! wanting to pay tax! No hope my dear I'm afraid.
That's all from me for tonight I think so night night. (No prizes for guessing what my dreams will be tonight!!!)

Hmm, I'm a bit torn on this issue of not upsetting people, which of course I have no intention of doing. As one who, due to geograpical location has only been to see the show once (so far) I do understand how...well I'm not sure what word to use here - frustrating? jealous? - I don't know really - but I know when people are having all these fests I just want to be there!

However, I do feel that just because I have the misfortune to live so far away, that should not diminish the joy of others who live closer and get to go more often. In fact, it's quite the opposite for me, I like to re-live the show vicariously (sp?) through others and I love reading all the reviews and feeling other people's excitement.

I do hope though that everybody understands that those people who enthuse about multiple visits are doing it for the benefit of the rest of us who are not so lucky, so that we can share the joy and not as an intention in any way to upset!

Shirley, I think you've missed the point. I'm not saying don't celebrate, don't post reviews, don't share your exuberance. Not only is that unrealistic, it's unkind. I'm simply suggesting we demonstrate some sensitivity and tact in recognising that many others don't share that sort of good luck. It's the equivelant of not eating steak in front of people who are starving.

BTW, forgot to say, Debbie, AHA, I have Morten Harket in my cupboard so how is he in yours too??

I'm still here!
I agree with you Fi about the facelift (not your face of course!) but am considering my other face - my derriere - after seeing her naked (even if it was in the 70's). She certainly had the figure I've been striving for all my life.

You're getting mixed up Karen. That's Steve Coogan you've got - AHAAA!!

Forgot to say Geri, good work with the card. Ditto about the cost.

I should of course said Alan Partridge.
Oh get me off someone!

Dear Deluded Debbie Darling - it's definitely Morten Hunket, er, I mean Harket in my cupboard - AP?? Who?? If you're going to be difficult I'll share the Hunket with you - in fact, I'll be even more generous - you have the Hunket, I'll have the GO. Deal or No Deal???

Who is this Morten Hunket, I'll have to go and Google

Oh, I see Aha, thick or what?

Just thick Jo4.

No Karen, you just have Alan and I'll have Morten AND the GO.

How the hell do I get into these conversations?

Hi nice landlord
Scott dear, can you add 'Loppies' to the tag list for this blog, to ease returning Loppies in finding the lastest home.
Thank you.

RIGHT! I am definitely off and yes, I did shower this morning.

GOODNIGHT!

Oh Jo4, that did make me laugh - you googling Morton Hunket - wonder what it would have brought up - probably something dodgy!!! AHA!!

Goodnight Deluded!

Thank you Nitlbd or Debbie, just because I'm a Cliffy fan, I know. It's basically because Aha is past my time.
Nice to chat to you all again, must go to bed. After I've done the packed lunches needed for later today.
Nightlee night all. And Hi to Carys, when you pop in for your very early morning visit.

No probs Karen Google corrects when you make slight spelling mistakes, really going now.
Bye

Goodnight all from another Morse fan, Eva.

Anybody still up? Just catching up on the evening's chatter and it has taken me quite a while, alcohol does dull the senses and has quite an effect on the mouse too!! lol. Purely medicinal you understand, I've definitely been an illeegal today!

Hi Jo - yes here I am checking everything is safely locked away for the night - batten down the hatches it's getting very windy again!

Moring rise and shine everyone (except Karen2 and Carys, who either suffer from insomnia or have been kept awake the snoring)! Martin, Martin do you think poor Maggie will mind that you have told the world her secret?? Sorry Geri forgot to say if cost prohibitive of course we will all chip in in the most practical way!
Did say at the SF last week that Emerald Green is one of my fav colours, although I don't actually currently have any clothes that colour, so that may be my task for 2008 - especially if it makes it easy for Sir Lee to spot me!! Off to take Sloppy to the coach station at Heathrow now - tonight the other man in my life...JD in Sweeny Todd (no not the CO!!). Sonja - belatedly nice to see you on here! OK my secret is out - Ploppy just come up from his shower and here I am not yet through the bathroom - oops!! Will try and catch up later!!!!

Morning all. So sorry I missed the interesting conversation last night about who's got who in the cupboard. I'm sure Morten Harket would be gobsmacket if he knew he was being fought over at a blog inhabited by slightlt bonkers Loppies!
Debbie,- you get into these conversations because you goad other poeople there. You might have MH in your cupboard, but I am sure he didn't tell you about raspeballer, so go on, girl, come out of the closet and fess up! Properly this time!
Hello sweetheart. BRRRRRRRRR,- a cold morning here at the beach. I see you are well covered up with the black coat and striped scarf.( Sigh!). Let's get the fire started. If you make me a strong black leaded and some nice slices of walnut bread, I'll do the fire. I was a girl guide in my far away youth, you know.

Jackie, about your cat problem. I had a similar problem with one of mine. Sam suddenly developed an inability to urinate at all. He had to be catheterised. My vet refered us to a urinary specialst near Luton who did a full investigation and diagnosed stress. He spent a year on tranquilisers and everytime we lowered his dose the whole thing started again. After a year (and over £1000 spent) we realised he had no life at all. He was either sleeping doped up all the time or cowering under furniture avarytime we moved. Reluctantly, we had him put to sleep on the vets advise. Or vet felt he was suffering the feline equivalent of alzheimers and had forgotten everything that made him trust us and feel comfortable in his surroundings. I don't tell you this to upset you, your promblem might be different. Just remember that, whatever happens, your cat has had a happy time with you up til now and you have done your best to make him comfortable.

Good morning all. A very downcast Loppy here. Having a really heavy landing this time. Keep telling myself that AT is really really soon but somehow it is not working yet. So I am doing what I always do when I am down. I get busy. So here goes.

Today is the final day for ordering THUD teeshirts. Some people have been asking if we will be ordering again soon - probably not. The set up costs for the screen printing is relatively expensive and not worth doing for less than about 100 tee shirt. And it seems likely that it will be sometime before that many people will be wanting them again.

Anyway to make it possible for anyone deciding on a last minute order please donate your £15 direct to Mildmay on the Just Giving site on LMAS, and then be sure to email me a copy of your receipt with details of your name, address, and the number of THUD's you want along with the size(s) in the 12/14/16/18 format. And to say again that they are available in all sizes from 8 - 28!!

Morning, all. Sun is shining here! Gorgeous -- except you go outside and turn at once into an icicle (that's a very odd word to spell. Do you think it's Norweigan?)

Karen, please tell Morten no man needs to stay in the closet in this day and age...

Thanks, Carol, I'll let you know.

Back to the books. Later, all...

Morning all - well it's a winter wonderland here this morning - yes the snow has finally arrived and lovely looks it too, especially from my vantage point inside the house!!

Think I may be housebound today so will have to find something to do. Hmm, I have afew DVD's I could watch!!!!!

So to anybody who has snow and has to go out in it, do take care!

Sorry Geri, posted at the same time - you are, of course, right but I think he feels safer in the closet with Debbie after him, although I'm sure she said last night she prefers Alan Partridge!!

Hello, not too busy here this morning. Eva, I'm sure BHB doesn't need you to adjust his scarf every few seconds, funny how you stroke his face each time you do it, taking lessons from Carol have you? I'll have a diet coke and a fruit platter, it's alright BHB I know it's not very warming, I'm dressed up warm for the weather. Difficult to see under your lovely coat, but have you put on a few pounds? The holiday must have been relaxing. Just having the one day job must have reduced your calorie burn, what exactly do you do in the evening? There must be a lot of running about or do you go to the gym? No, I don't want your fantasy answer of making women whoop and clap each night. Are you a night time cycle courier all dressed in lycra? (Sorry just had a weak moment)

Karen, snow and a winter wonderland. Do you have a digital camera? If you do could you take a pic for us southern (chilly but no snow) Loppies. I like looking at snow, just not walking or driving in it, after my weeks of snow one winter when I lived in Yorkshire.

Good Morning all from the snowy North - how beautiful the garden looks all sparkly and white! I agree Jo4 I love looking at snow - hate driving in it though.

Karen, Debbie - I'll think you'll find Morton Harket is in my cupboard too! I've got a friend who knew him in the pre Aha days.

Deanna - nice to hear from you again, welcome back. I did see the little patch of rosy sunburn on the GO's shoulder - aw bless!

Hello Pen, I see you whieghed up the humour on this blog!

Eva - well done on getting that calendar signed!

Hi Sonja (waiving!) It was lovely to meet you!

I've been having a good look at those squares, and I thing that everyone has done a really good job - so much imagination - pats on backs girls. And of course a big well done to Geri for bringing them all together so well! It looks fantastic.

OK so the Any Knight Won't Do Graphic Department better go abd get some work done.

Fi - turquoise! Duly noted!

Hi Shirley, sorry you're feeling down, maybe a little daydreaming is needed! I emailed you last night re the t-shirts and was very glad to see your message here this morning about donating online, however, just as when I tried to book tickets, I'm stuck again when it gets to the security code issue because AIB maestro cards don't have them so I can't get any further, sorry, now I'm feeling downcast too.

Hi Jane-glad to know the graphics dept is working at the weekend. I'm really looking forward to seeing the results, if the drawing I saw the other day is an example of the standard. i'm sure it is. Style is very in keeping with the tale. They will complement the lovely story from Geri.
I'm off now, lilac jods, rose fleece, black muffler, multicoloured beanie, yellow hiviz tabard, green coat, grey whip, purple shirt, gold ring, silver ear rings, brown gloves, a riot of colours, not quite as many as THE coat though. (PS for those safety people I do swap the beanie for a black riding hat when needed.)

Morning all. Well to make up for being early (for me) yesterday, a bit on the late side today.
Hope all snowbound loppies keep warm, and I'm with you that snow is wonderful to look at, but a real pain when you want to get out and about.
I remember seeing Aha, years ago, when I was away. They were staying in the same hotel as us and gave us tickets she bragged insufferably...and to think I never realised MH was in the closet!!
Hello BHB bet you are really feeling the cold after Thailand. I would love some porrige and leaded please, why don't we sit here by the fire, now cuddle up that's right, it will help keep you warm. Me? believe me I'm feeling on fire.
Btw Shirley I know what you mean, but it will pass this feeling I feel sure.

Forgot to say, Geri I'm with the others, would be glad to chip in any way I can with the project.
Jo4 I'm dazzled, what a lovely sight you must be!

Geri,- you stand corrected (as per usual!). Icicle is NOT a Norwegian word. We say istapp,- don't we Debbie? Much simpler, don't you know, and you can stop that quip right there, Geri,- simple minds, not us!
Since you have now outed MH really and truly (yes, he is a true ladies man) I'll post the link again to his latest single, which I think would be perfect for GO. It doesn't hurt to watch Morten anyway:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38u0tVW174Q&feature=related
Jo4,- I'm adjusting BHB's scarf because it keeps slipping and it's in a proper, maternal way!
Pauline2,- you can let him go now. He's choking!

Sorry, the link doesn't work. Don't know why. I'll try again.

I'm trying again. This time I have copied and pasted the link from the search bar, so hopefully should work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38u0tVWI74Q&feature=related

Halleluja,- it worked. Ignore the first minute. It's talk from the finals of the Norwegian Idol (X-factor) competition.

Missed the move yesterday, but THANKS SCOTT!
Why is it that I'm always at work when everyone comes out to play? I seem to miss all the fun!Good to see some "old" loppies back - Hello! And a warm welcome to Pen. It snowed a blizzard here last night but didn't settle at all, and I'm only 24miles south of Elisabeth! Now cold but bright sunshine so we're off for a bracing walk along the beach, followed by a McDonalds no doubt if scollops get their way!
Must check out squares now and see if mine makes the grade?

Ali I just e-mailed you and posted a bit on the LMAS site: I only just realised this morning that when I photographed it, I inadvetently chopped off the far right of the poster -- it's closer to a square than it seems in the photo. I do apologise; I know you must be disappointed not to see your square in place.

My nice framer is doing a rush so I'll get the framed picture back by Friday & then can pop it in the mail. €40, which isn't bad at all, and whatever the postage will be on top of that.

Hello. A Lurking Loppie popping in! I haven’t posted since the New Year but nearly always manage to read the blog at sometime during the day and really love to hear what you all have to say, and laugh and aaah etc and am of course loving the Saga of Sir Lee. Brilliant Geri.

I of course class myself as a Lurking Loppie as, never having met up or posted much on here so can’t call myself a Leftathome Loppie, but I just wanted to say that I have really, really loved to hear about all the visits to the Adelphi this week and your meetings up, and just want more and more detail and have never felt that any of you come across as crowing so PLEASE DON’T STOP!!!

I really love this blog and feel that you are my sort of people and enjoy hearing about your lives and happenings but I must admit that the highlights are when there is mention of Lee. I was really pleased that he went to Thailand for his holiday as he has always needed to get away on his own and seems to like open spaces and so I would imagine that it would have been an ideal place for contemplation and catching up with himself time, but I must admit that I was a bit worried that he would decide that this fame lark wasn’t really for him and might have chosen to withdraw slightly, and so was really thrilled with tears in my eyes to hear how thrilled he was to be back on the show and when I saw Tricia’s photo on Donna’s site with his really gigantic smile( like when he won ADWD) when he came out to the scrum I breathed a big sigh of relief.

Congratulations on all the brilliant Valentine squares… They are real works of art and I think Lee is going to be so touched by it all.

Back to Lurkdom and the recipe books as family get together tomorrow. I shouldn’t even be on here!!

Hi everyone. Waves. Thanks for the welcome and it is nice to be back.
It is strange , you get to see a different view of the show in the upper circle, and I think the sound is actually better up there. Of course the seats are considerable cheaper for those loppies who have to shell out for expensive travelling costs and maybe a hotel as well. However, I don't think I would have enjoyed sitting there so much if I hadn't has my small trusty binoculars for some regular close-ups of Lee as you tend to miss out about on his gorgeous facial expressions.

You do get a better overview of the entire performance and you can even see the metal of the mic buried in Lee's hair. But I didn't see the mosquito bites, I would have needed to be very close for that you lucky lady, Shirley.

I sat in the upper circle, when I made a last minute decision to see the show again last November but I must admit I don't recall a lot about that performance other than the dreaded costume malfunction! I was so flabbergasted and I felt so bad for Lee, poor lamb.

Debbie - no I'm not the Deanna you know. I don't have any siblings unfortunately. I'd really like to have a sister.

Well, I've got to get back to work now, or I'll be getting complaints from my editor that the proposal I promised him is late.

Hi folks!
Hope you don't mind me popping in to join you all and catch up more things Lee!
xx

Aw, thanks Jo4, I'm blushing! I do hope you guys won't be disappointed!

Pauline2 - I'm jealous - I loved Aha as a teenager!

Great to hear from you again Helen W, you're a proper Loppy you know!

OK Deanna - if you're not the Deanna Debbie knows, are you by any chance a Canadian nurse? I was in the Upper Circle in Novemember and was pleasently suprised that the view was quite good - but no, couldn't see mossie bites from up there!

Just on my way out into the frozen cold, to buy some paint - really these authors, dressing characters in silver! Whatever next!

Martin,- I have e-mailed you my photos from Wednesday + one of Pauline's photos of me and my soppy smile when GO signs my calendar. I had to split them into 3 mails and sent them to Maggies adress. I hope Maggie is OK in London, and that her Mum is getting better.

Hi Helen, great to hear from you,and thankyou for your comments. It put my mind at ease somewhat, as of course we don't do upsetting on this blog! Slightly bonkers yes that's it and long may it stay that way!
Hi Shelly, waving, nice to see you, welcome to the mad house!
JaneE you'll be glad to know then they were lovely boys (not to rub it in or anything!)

Jo4 - sorry camera packed in yonks ago and not been replaced yet. Most of the snow has gone now anyway although it is snowing (through the sunshine!!) at the moment.

Well, I am having a lovely day, transferring all my files, photos and videos - all mainly Lee - from my old laptop to my new one. Now I could have done it the easy way and bought one of those transfer leads that you just plug in to each laptop and it transfers everything for you, but I didn't - I'm doing it all bit by bit (gives me a chance to tidy up my files) which means that I am having to look at each photo and watch each video before I transfer it - what a way to spend the day - bliss!!!

Hello Shelley (waiving!)

Sounds like a terrible job you're haveing to do there Karen, do you want me to come over and help?

Karen, I thought we didn't do any upsetting other people on this blog - you've just upset me terribly by showing off as to how