So long, farewell Hollyoaks: hello, Palladium

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 much you're getting on with your new laptop. I thought you were as brainless as me re. all things techie and now I find you transferring files and talking about transfer leads - it's all another language to me!

Eva, I've just released MH from the closet so he can dog sit whilst I go to London for the evening. I couldn't leave poor little Madge on her own now could I?

Welcome Shelly!

Jane E - is Deanna a Canadian nurse?!&%?!? Is she Godzilla? Is she a Russian spy? What sort of question is that???

Deanna - I too can thoroughly recommend the use of small trusty binoculars! I was at the front of the Dress Circle and they are ace for seeing close up detail! Love the new audience photos - in the latest ones from Karen, Lee is wearing the same hat and jacket combo (not the scarf) that he was wearing when Alison and I saw him!! That's what our photos should have looked like Alison!!! The smiley one is especially nice - I so wish I took it!

Gotta go. Off to catch train to the big apple, er satsuma, or whatever London is.

Have a good evening everyone! Say hi to JD for me Carol (NOT JohnDeep - if he's survived the maze).

Well Debbie, I happen to have a friend called Deanna who is -

1. Canadian and
2. A nurse

So, perfectly sensible question I thought!

Have fun in the big artichoke!

Debbie,- I'm glad to hear you're treating MH humanely. I'm sure he and Madge will have a ball (!) while you are away. Have they sent out warning signals in London that you are coming? Btw. MH is just singing "Movies" on Norwegian radio now!
Ali B,- I used my opera glasses frequently on Wed. sitting in Row A in the Dress circle. Excellent they were too. Even I noticed the mosquito bites!!

Charming!! That Debbie woman comes here and slings insults at me (brainless, who me?) then bogs off to the big satsuma! Just cos I told you all about her secret lust for Alan Partridge!! Aha!

Well, the file transferring has gone remarkably well (I even amazed myself) but now I am having email problems again (stop laughing Debbie). Just tried to send myself a test email and it bounced back saying it could not be delivered as "mikeyboi's" inbox is full!!! Who the chuff is mikeyboi and what does his full inbox have to do with me!!??

Jane - can you do me a favour please. I got the email you sent this morning but now it's disappeared from my inbox (it's probably clogging up mikeyboi's). If you kept it in your sent items could you re-send it please or if you didn't keep it just send another one as a test. Cheers matey!

No I'm not Candian or a nurse, but when I was younger I did work in a Path lab specialising in bacteriology.

Close but not that close.

London - the big artichoke/satsuma?
Interesting but couldn't we find something that worked a little better then someone could write a song about that instead of New York New York and Lee could sing it.

Clearly all this writing has sent me a little mad - please ignore my ravings

Deanna you should know you don't have to be mad to post here, but being slightly bonkers helps!
Karen I feel you should pursue your acquaintance with mikeyboi! If he has a full inbox must be a popular guy.
Could London be the big Toblerone please? Maybe you couldn't sing it but make it even more worth visiting!

I for one, Pauline2, think we should take up your suggestion and call London the big Toblerone! All those in favour?

Ah, Deanna, so I'm not renewing acquantance with my long lost friend (sigh!) Never mind!

OK Karen, I'll re-send that e-mail to mikeyboi - this isn't your alter ego is it?

Off to keep Ploppy company - he said something about going to the place called the pub. Might have to try it - I hear they sell this stuff called beer there!

See you later Loppies!

Chap. 13 (cont'd)

They waited until morning then Sir Jack-wow (the third) went into the maze to look for Sir John of Deep. Despite his protests, Lee was not allowed to assist in the search and was compelled to remain at the camp site. He could not bear to stay with the others and so wandered off alone and walked along the bank of the stream. Even as a child he had found the sound of water soothing and it comforted him now. Fortunately, he didn’t have to wait long. The captain was back an hour later and held a huddle conversation with the other muses before joining Lee by the merry waters.
“It’s as I feared,” Sir Jack-wow (the third) said. “I found him standing before the mirror of stardom. Once a knight falls under its spell, he’s lost.”
“Mirror of stardom?” Lee asked. “I didn’t see a mirror.”
“I'm sure you didn't," the captain said gently. "As you know, Lee, each knight’s career and ambitions are unique to himself. After all, we each judge success in different terms. Sir John of Deep allowed himself to become beguiled by stardom – it’s not uncommon.”
“What will happen to him?”
“He’ll be okay. I managed to get him away from the mirror and sent him to Mount View. He’ll learn there, and he’ll be a better knight for it.”
“And Throb?” Lee asked bitterly. “What of him? He drowned in quicksand – I saw it.”
“You saw him go under the quicksand. The sands are quick because they entrap the knight who wants success in a hurry. But he didn’t drown, Lee. He wasn’t even hurt. He came out on the other side very well indeed. He’s not ready to become a knight yet, but we muses will be watching him and I think he’ll achieve his own measure of success.”
“He wouldn’t have fallen into the sand but for me. He shouldn’t be disqualified for that.”
“He wasn’t,” the captain said. “He was disqualified because he broke the rules – he spoke.” Sir Jack-wow (the third) sat down beside Lee. “You didn’t – not even when you most wanted to. The true knight knows how to be circumspect and keep his tongue. Remember the tale of Sir Rhydian?”
“I learned it as a child,” Lee said. “He hoped to become King Phantom the Second, but his tongue led him astray and he was disqualified.”
“Precisely.”
Lee sat in silence some moments, listening to the music of the water. Then a thought occurred to him and he asked, “How did I get out of the maze, Captain? I wasn’t even looking.”
“Exactly so. You stopped using your mind and let your heart lead you. You found the one thing that was guaranteed to meet your definition of success.”
“What?”
“The loppies. You remember, Praline met you at the exit. The loppies’ love is pure and so long as you have that you’ll be happy.” He rose and Lee stood up too. The captain of the knights put his hand on Lee’s shoulder. “You can go all the way in this challenge, Sir Lee. The loppies have already made their opinion known and, besides, you owe it to Throb.”
“I won’t let you down,” Lee said. “Or the loppies.”
“I know you won’t. Incidentally, I have something for you.” He drew from his man-bag a large, multicoloured cloak. “The loppies made it for you, each one made a different square, there’s FiFi’s turquoise, and Diva’s buttercup yellow, and Christmas’s emerald and Jodhpur’s russet . Alley-oop put it together.”
“It’s beautiful.”
“You’re wearing their colours. Don’t forget that. And you’ll need to keep faith – the next challenge will get you all fired up!”

Eva
I have recieved 5 e-mails from Carol with pictures But nothing from you as yet? perhaps if you send them again-if you have my address send them to me, if not try Maggies again.

oo'er. I'm all fired up now Geri. He's hot hot hot as it is.... what do we expect next?? oh, so exciting.

Oh Geri - another tear in my eye - wonderful!

Er Auds - would you like the fan??

Pauline2 - you have a very good point - a full inbox is a good sign! Or maybe not, perhaps it's a sign that he doesn't tidy his inbox often enough, and that's not a good thing!!

Jane - thank you, message received - just off to make dinner but will then try to respond.

Martin,- I'll send them again. Strange,- they haven't been returned. I used Maggie's adress, since I haven't got yours.
Geri,- this one was deep (no pun intended!). But I loved the moral there: As long as he keeps the Loppy Love he will be safe and he will make it. And me in buttercup yellow. Fancy!

Fired up, no don't let him go into a fire! Loving it Geri, King Phantom, priceless.

Eva, I e-mailed you Martin's e-mail address (he said it was OK). Love that pic of Lee signing your special calendar.

BTW, Danny-boy is going to be on EP -- wonder if she'll actually interview him herself, or do what she did with Lee.

Martin,- I have now e-mailed the photos again to your adress. Hope they get through this time.
Geri,- is Danny Boy on tomorrow on Radio 2?

Eva, someone called M Ball is on tomorrow (mustering up votes, no doubt!) I think Daniel is on next week or the week after. Got the info from my dollop & she's not in to check the details with. Sorry.

Hey Martin, that was quick.

Hello everyone! *waves*
Well you have moved home since I last posted so that should tell me something....unfortunately real life has taken over from Leesearch for now, hopefully not for ever though. BUT Had a little break and headed back into Leeland on Wednesday, how fabulous!!! Yes to the mossie bites, sunburn, sweat(lots) & other little details - row A is definitely to be recommended! (Although I did have to duck round the conductors fine head of hair during CED, until our boy got off his ROTY.) I agree though that the sound is better in the U/C, but then the view from the front can`t be beaten, so whatever lights your candle really!!
So lovely to see everyone again on Weds, & meet a couple of new faces into the bargain. I will try & swing by a bit more often, time permitting.....

Had a lovely but bracing day by coast walking (or being blown along)part of norfolk coastal path. Totally and utterly pooped now.

Shirley - my cheque is in post BUT i think i might have put second class stamp on (well actually ploppy did but as I didnt tell him wanted first class cant even blame him!) - will that be Ok as may not get to you on Mon?

geri - love the tranquil but deep tone and rhythm of this episode (I can almost hear the running water that Sir Lee is sitting by). I am so impressed - you guessed! that my fav colour is turquoise - how clever and thank you. Have to confess to confused with Alley-oop - assuming you but cant make the connection. What am i missing? - On second thoughts prob a leading question. Sounds as if next episode will be a totally diff tone again.

Really really tired so off to bed.

I've sent some photos to Martin from Weds. It is just a selection. I have left out those who did not want their images to be posted. I would like to say I have rather nice pictures of them. As for my after show pics, well I've added special effects, enough to say the steady cam function does not work when holding the camera over your head. There were 2 where I had very clear shots not over my head. Again the steady cam function does not stop the Lee induced shakes, so no after show shots from me. Unless you want the really clear, no shakes picture of a poster outside the Adelphi that I took as a test shot for light levels, no I thought not.

Good evening Ladies
I have recieved 5 emails from Carol with pictures, then noticing that I had not recieved Eva's, I checked E-mails and nothing yet from Eva but got 6 from Jo4.
All the pictures recieved are now online and in the appropriate album (so check them all)

http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4

Eva I have just recieved an e-mail from you But no pictures the mail is only 3kb so would indicate no pics added just text, this may be the same problem Geri and I were having yesterday, I assume there are multiple pics so try sending in 2 or 3 e-mails and see if that works, (might just be the files are too big)

Geri-Lovely chapter. Thanks.

Martin,- I've sent the photos again, in 3 mails as before + another e-mail with just text. Let me know how it goes.

I'm closing down for the night, so sleep tight all, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

Good evening ladies.

Fi, no problem at all. Of course I trust you and your order will be included regardless of the post.

I am sorry to have been so quiet and down the last couple of days. I have been greatly saddened by an extremely personal and abusive email sent to Donna by a Loppy who, whilst she mainly posts on the Forum these days, still returns regularly to post here. It is bullying of the worst kind and intolerable.

Donna is still taking advice and considering how to deal with the situation, but that a long standing member of our 'family' has behaved so badly is truly shocking.

And thanks, love and hugs to those of you who have kept me going without necesarily knowing why I was so down.

Geri, thanks for the next chapter. Loving the morality of the story.

Martin, thanks for posting the photos, and thanks everyone who took them. Loving having so many reminders of a very happy day. Think I will do one of those composite photos with them. Would everyone mind copying me with them? Including the ones you dont want on the internet - they would just be for me to print out.

Shirley - that's terrible news. I can't possibly imagine who could have done such a thing, and no I'm not asking, it's none of my business, but I am truly shocked that anybody on here could do that.

Much love to you and Donna!

Shirley that is horrible, please don't be too down, as you know that most, nearly all of us are right behind everything you and Donna do. I think you are both amazing, and anybody who would abuse either of you isn't worth worrying about.
Now I need cheering up too, now what could possibly do that, maybe a trawl through my dvds'?

Shirley - I cant believe that Donna has been attacked by someone again, and the fact that its someone who posts here as ou say makes it much worse. Poor Donna, as if she hasn't got enough on her plate without such spitefulness. Its enough to make you weep.

Thanks Karen. I will pass that on to Donna, I know she will appreciate it as much as I do.

Right - now I'm off to bed to see if I can get some sleep tonight. Goodnight all. Sleep tight and Sweet Meads.

Shirley
You always get at least one, but it's best to ignore them, put a block on their E-mail address so you don't get anymore ( I know you get more addresses but they would soon get fed up)
If the sites are set up for it you can have them banned from posting etc. but best treat them with the contempt they deserve.

Anyway you can't make me down, Ipswich Town FC won their first away game today Yipeeeeee

Thanks Martin. That advice has been given to Donna too.

Glad Ipswich won. Just a guess that maybe your email address has something to do with them???

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YMi22iLyRY

Donna's video from Mushroom theatre on 26th Jan.

Just to have a little lift.
Nightlee night

eugh - that's horrid news Shirley. Makes me feel ill. Feel really awful for Donna - echoing Karen, please send her much love and tonnes of support.

Martin, thanks for putting up all those pics. And 'well done' to Ipswich Town! I guess.

Been installing printer today (getting very techi these days) only the blooming thing doesn't come with a USB cable - which I only discovered AFTER the shops shut!!!!! so I cleaned up my 'office' space instead. Will leave it until tomorrow when my techi friend comes for lunch to check out a couple of problems I've had on my dear little laptop.

So good night all, wishing you the sweetest of meady dreams...

Auds do you connect wirelessly with your laptop?

Thanks Shirley2 and Pauline - love and hugs to you all.

Hello everyone (well those still up) just back from meal after seeing Sweeney Todd - excellent. Ok may not be everyone's cup of tea, but the acting was tremendous, the direction superb and the whole thing wonderfully atmospheric! I'm not usually a Helen B_C fan - but she excelled in this! JD was of course just wonderful! Could watch it again!
Geri - another stunning episode - did love the Phantom 2 comment!! So glad Throb is safe! Oh, don't want this saga to end.
Martin - glad they arrived safely this time! Thanks for all your efforts. Any news from Maggie??
Shirley that is horrid - especially with Donna preoccupied with Jacob's accident. Some people are just hard to understand!
OK Sweet Meads all - off to bed (hope I don't have nightmares!).

I cannot understand why someone would send an unpleasant e-mail to Donna. Personally I think it is terrible. It is bad enough being unpleasant on the forum but a personal one to Donna who has brought everyone together and does such a lot for Lee and the loppies it is appalling.
Please let her know we have our support.

Sorry got incensed it should have read' she has our support'.

Feel better now, just had a blast of TWS, amazing what it does for one.
Martin I'm so pleased for you, you deserve a win for all your hard work for us!
Thinking of seeing ST next week myself, glad to see it recommended. It was the idea of a lot of blood putting me off, but maybe I'll risk it.
Off to bed with me now. Let's hope for a better day tomorrow. Night night sleep tight

Hi , i'm usually a lurker, but have been really saddened by Shirleys news of another personal attack on Donna. Just needed to echo Aud's, Karens & Martins comments and to say that i am really saddened that someone who is supposed to be a Lee fan would do such a thing. What happened to spreading the Lee love?
'The Stage Loppies' & LMAS have got me through a really sad time recently and i for one really appreciate what Donna & you all do in supporting Lee and his charities!!
You have me in stitches.

Geri - Thanks again for organising the Valentine Project. It's really looking wonderful. Again as has already been said, please let us share the costs, don't be out of pocket!
Thankyou for your wonderful tales. I have had a good laugh and cry tonight catching up with the last few days instalments.

Shirley- thanks for organising the Thud T shirts!

Ali B - The audience photo's i think are mine (31/1) If you would like copies of any, especially the smiley one, let me know and i shall be happy to oblige!

As you now know i went to Joseph the day after your outing, ladies ( i now know why i couldn't get tickets for the 30th) just have to say the audience out front at the after show, show are getting younger and younger.' The screams of 'We love you lee' were deafening. Poor Lee, he just smiled back , don't think he quite knew what to say to that!!
The funniest bit was on the train home. A lady sitting opposite my friend and i saw the signed picture that Lee gives out, in my friend's hand and asked if we had been to the show. She wanted to know all about it & how good Lee was, another lady across the isle joined in to say that she had taken her daughter the week before to see Lewis (as her young daughter was a lewis fan, having voted for him on ADWD) gave us her observations of lewis and said that he was good but didn't have the physic to wear the loin cloth. It was so surreal that four ladies who had never met before were discussing lee's and Lewis's performances for about 30 minutes, until we gradually left the train one by one. However both ladies are now going to book up to see Lee !!
It made me realise just how far he has come that random ladies on the train were chatting about his talent and the loin cloth LOL!

Anyway nightlee night and sweet meads to anyone still up!!

Just having a last catch up before i go to bed and am shocked to read that someone would send Donna an offensive email. especially not a Loppy. I hope something can be done about it.
See you all tomorrow. Night, night.

Have returned safely from the big cucumber.
Billy Elliot was ****ing brilliant. Excuse my french but there was an awful lot of swearing in it and I think it's rubbed off on me. Glad I didn't take the dollops! Having said that, I did actually think it added to the realism although hearing children swear all the time for laughs is not too clever.

Enough of that, 'Billy' was a superb dancer, actor, singer and only 13! Such energy. I felt breathless watching it.

Anyway, you don't want me warbling on about another show. I'll be able to warble about our man in 27 sleeps!

Glad you liked ST Carol. I'll def go now.

I'd like to add my sentiments to everyone else's - very sorry to hear about Donna. I just don't get it. She's just doing a fab job in her spare time for everyone else's enjoyment. What's the point of trying to upset her? Some people have too much time on their hands. I'm very surprised it's someone on here as most of us seem extremely careful not to offend. Send Donna our best Shirley.

Suppose I'd better shove MK back in the closet and get to bed. I can hear you all snoring (esp Maggie) and it's making me slee....zzzzzzzz

I meant MH of course, DOH!

Morning, morning - a little late for the rise and shine, but I was just doing my job and voting! Had an email about the awards and they said there is just a fraction of a point between the GO and MB!!! vote! vote! vote - only 7 days left! Joseph currenly in lead for best musical revivial and Ben in lead for best supporting (ahead of Dean!!). Go out into the biways and highways and tell them to vote for our Boy (ok you've already done that, but get people to do it again and again!!).
Pauline2, yes there is a lot of blood admitedly and I am normally squeamish, but it just all fits somehow - it is very well done (perhaps I was helped by reading an article explaining that the actors had tubes and wires and pumps attached to them with false blood in). Four of us went and we all thought it was brilliant!
Debbie (waves) and were you wearing your pink fluffies when you went to BE?? KarenC loved the idea of you chatting to strange ladies on the train! As I wasn't in much yesterday didn't say "hello" to the newbies and welcome to the wonderfully bonkers world of the Stage Loppies!
It's looking rather windy here today....have Society accounts to input for Ploppy, but as a reward he is taking me to Sunday lunch - perhaps I'd better do the input this morning before we go......
Shirley, hugs to Donna please (grrr! - that's not for Donna you understand but for the unnamed one!).

Morning all. Windy old world here today too. Standing room only for birds in the garden already. They need so much help this weather and get a 5 course gourmet spread here.

Thank you all for your support and good wishes to Donna and me. I was as shocked and horrified as you. Personally I am feeling a lot better now it is sort of out in the open and you have all made it so clear where your loyalties lie. I hope it helps Donna too. I have contacted her this morning with our current address and suggested she might like to make a flying visit and read your comments, it cannot fail to cheer her up.

Hello lurkers. Welcome. And thank you for adding your words of support. Nice to know you are there, and feel involved enough to comment. And you know you would be very welcome to post any time you like.

KarenC I loved your train converstaion too. I was wondering when we were having that discussion about getting excited about Jo visits on here just how much difference we are all making to Lee's career.

When Lee won ADWD I was desperate to go and see him in it and wasted valuable time thinking of ways to get there - back then it never even entered my mind to go alone - so I organised a special birthday party for my Step Father for his 80th in September. Then reading all the reports and excitement about the previews I just had to get there. Could not wait - so rang the box office and got a single seat for the last night of the previews. That is the night I met Auds for the first time, and started to get the confidence to believe that Loppies really are what they seemed. Lovely lovely ladies - who had been as stunned as I was to how they were feeling about Lee. Fan girlies all over again!!!! And now I have been to see Jo more times than I saw Ben Hur as a kid - never did anything else more than once. And I know, because you have told me, that my 'journey' has inspired lots of you to step outside your comfort zones too. So more and more Jo seats get sold. And we all tell our friends, and they tell their friends........

Same with the cd. I took 2 copies of Lee Mead to Barbados. Played it all the time. 2 other friends loved it - so at Christmas copies went of to Svalbard (high Arctic Norway), Canada and South Africa. Ladies all over the country were rearranging CD displays in the supermarkets. Eva converted a saleslady in Woolworths so effectively that she bought the cd for herself, loves it and they still have the cd displayed now. And it is still selling.

That sort of support and publicity is beyond price, and must be having an impact - just had a thought - when I was travelling home on the train from StP's I had my copy of the Stage with Stephanie's wonderful photo on the front and the interview that Scott Dear did with Lee. The lady sitting next to me shyly asked to borrow it to read - she liked Lee too. Never had that happen to me before, about anything. Bet she took herself out and bought a copy when she got home.

Anyway I am going to be a bit busy today too. Need to sort out the final numbers of THUDs. My first rough count comes out at 101. But need to check very carefully that I haven't missed anyone out.

So a nice big mug of Earl Grey to take away please BHB. And a slice of well burnt toast.

Oh and Jo4. Shirley's video. My first ever. Inordinately proud of it. Just to digitally ignorant to know how to get it off my memory stick and out into the virtual world, so sent said stick off to Donna who did the magical stuff for me

Morning all. A very brisk but bright day here at the beach today. Have wrapped up warm for my walk down to the Bistro.
Hello sweetheart. Lovely to see you and to see that you've fired up today. Yes Carol, I know he's fired you up too! My usual please, maybe a croissant since it's Sunday.
The news about bad e-mails to Donna is terrible. She certainly doesn't deserve that.
I'll post my photos again to Martin a bit later today. I still can't understand how I'm being told that my messages has been sent, and then nothing appears at the other end. They are probably somewhere up in the stratosphere. I hope Capt'n Kirk saves them if he comes across them on his travels. He would instantly recognised us, don't you think?

Morning all, a new day and things are looking up. Welcome KarenC, nice to hear from you and your words of support are just what's needed at times like these. Fantastic story about your train journey, I'm sure between us all we've made a difference, hope so!
Thanks for that Carol, I will definately make the time to go and see ST, and if I faint I'll tell everyone I was misled by a loppy! Mmm do you think they'd understand?
Well done on the video Shirley, as I commented on LMAS I loved it the children look great, and it gives a "face" to the charity.
Hello BHB, you look a little sad, what, oh it's this nasty letter Donna got, I know sweetheart, but we mustn't let theses things get us down. Sit over here with me and rest your head on my shoulder, there you can cry if you like, I don't mind I'm used to it!

Awwwww bless you all!!!!

Thanks for making me feel love and wanted - the email I received was AWFUL and left me shaking and in tears. I was shocked too as I assumed the person in question was a friend! So that made it doubly painful!

I am considering outing her on the FORUM as I really wouldn't let anyone in real life talk to me like that.

I have set myself a deadline of 8pm tonight to decide what to do.

I'll keep you guys posted and thanks so much for the support, you are all wonderful!

Love and Hugs

Donnna
xxxxxx

Another lurking loppy offering support to Donna.
The person who sent the email does not rate the title loppy though, that sort of behaviour is NOT in the code.

Pauline2 - I have a lovely picture of the BHB with his head on your shoulder, brushing away a tear as emotion overcomes him and trying not to look like a 'little girl'!
Karen C - lovely story, its amazing how we can all spread the word in unexpected ways

Good morning all

Shirley - agree with all you say about the joys of being a loppy. Although I have no problem going places on my own, I tend to be a people watcher and rarely interact. Being a loppy is beginning to change that especially since meeting up with Geri, Karen and Jean last week. I've never been a "fan" before and it's such great fun.

Please add my name to the list of Donna's supporters and tell her thanx for all her hard work. Oh, and lots of oohms and healing angels for little Jacob.

Your video at Mushroom is inspirational. I willingly support all of Lee's favoured charities but particularly this one. I volunteer with Special Olympics and I know how rewarding and uplifting it is to be with people with disability. After your visit to Mushroom I feel sure you know what I mean. I had better go now. I have to be in Wicklow for 11pm for club (Blue Dolphins Special Olympics) - it is a highlight in my week.

Slan (pronounced Slawn) - meaning goodbye.

So sorry to hear that Donna's been upset - love and hugs, girl!

Geri - yet another excellent chapter, well done!

Karen C your conversation on the train gave a big laugh and Jenny I agree with you about the joys of Loppydom.

Shirley2 - so you have a lovely picture of Pauline comforting the BHB do you? Well that's a co-incidence!

Donna - never ever imagine you are not loved and wanted - you do a FANTASTIC job and I take my hat off to you for running a home, caring for your family and doing the day job as well as keeping us totally up to date with all things Lee related - a true Star (and never forget it!!!).
Cxxx

Morning All, wish I had posted earlier in order to add my message before Donna came on, but I was trying to put in words what I want to say. I've not met the majority of you, I hope to eventually, and I've not met Donna but I have felt over the months as if I've known you all and it's sickening to have this happen to anyone but of all Donna. There is always such good vibes on here and such helpfulness and support which I've already experienced in a few ways and witnessed in the conversations. It is a measure of this person's character that they chose to say whatever it was by email and hadn't the courage to come out in public with it and ditto to what Pen said, they don't deserve to be called a true loppy.
Chin up Donna, try to just focus on all the true and positive friends who are behind you.

Oooooh JaneE do you mean what I think you mean? Excited now! Have to say the picture it conjured up for me was pretty good too!
You see Donna and Shirley, loppies are wonderful people really, and must just reiterate what Carol says, where would we be without you. Big hugs and loads of lovexx

Aunty Eva - it's not just you - I emailed my piccies to Martin on Monday evening (late) and had no non delivery messages, but they never arrived! Just think up in ether space there are lots of photos of Loppies waiting to be discovered!

Morning all

Donna - lovely to hear from you - I'm sure you'll make the right decision about what to do.

I agree about the personal journey's we have all made since becoming loppies. Mine is yet to come. I have mentioned previously that I have a train phobia and have not been on a train for almost 30 years and yet here I am planning to come to London from Yorkshire by train for the tearfest!!! I will not be alone, the lovely Jane will be there to hold my hand (probably quite literally) and she is going to help me by coming with me on a short train journey in a few weeks, just to "test the waters" and prepare me for the big one!! My point is that I would never have dreamt of doing it in my pre-loppy days!! So, not only are we helping Lee's career but Lee is helping us find new friends and conquer our fears along the way!

I LOVE BEING A LOPPY!!

Karen - when the lovely Jane-E holds your hand all the way to the big smoking cucumber, we'll all be there with you (we can do that you know - we're virtual). And then, when you see us in reality, you'll want to get straight back on that train and outta here!!!! (She laughs out loud and her own silly joke** what! nobody else laughing?? - OK, so that probably wasn't as funny as I thought - but you trying living in my head where the bizarre is constantly going on - no, that's not the one where you shop, it's the weird one! Hey! did I hear someone call me a 'nutter'?
Shees - what came over me there? Oh I know - here's a first for me - I'm cooking lunch today for a friend. I mentioned this a couple of scrolls up last night - she's coming to 'fix' all my electronic gadgets (so I can print my photos and download them from my new camera and send off to Martin??) It's the cooking that has me most concerned. Shall I do the Jamie Oliver version? The Ramsey or the ... oh no, not me - it's the S****bury version!!!! The kind you bung in the microwave.. Hey, I might even step outside my comfort zone and get something that has to be warmed up in the oven!!!!
Another thing I did last night - which might explain my condition this a.m. was internet searchng - naturally I typed in "Joseph" and couldn't help comparing (or getting confused??) our GO with the OJ (Original Jo)- see what you think...
Quote:
He is also a type of manly beauty; so that one often finds the expression "a second Joseph," meaning one extraordinarily beautiful.
End Quote.
??
Right - on that note, it's off to the shops for me.... see you later.

O o o, has anyone else noticed that the time allowed between votes on the Sympoll (beautiful man in the world..) seems to have dropped from 24 to 12 hours. I've found I've been able to vote twice a day, almost...

I just popped in to leave a message for Eva, and what do I find, someone has upset Donna big time.
I have never met Donna but she comes across as a warm and friendly person(like my own Daughter is)and I fail to understand why someone should be abusive to her, please Shirley add my support for Donna, I am at a loss for words at the moment, I cannot understand the human race!!!!
Eva I have e mailed you twice but they have not been delivered, I have now tried sending it via my hotmail, it is about where to meet on Tuesday
can you please let me know if you recieve the email.

Jill,- I got your mail and have mailed you back.

Oh Auds, thanks for that and yes you did have me laughing out loud!!

Hi Karen. I hope things go well on your train journey.. If you want a little extra help contact JourneyCare on 08457 44 33 66. The can reserve seats for you and arrange for you to be escorted to your train and at any change points you need to make. It is a service for anyone who needs that estra bit of help (as long as it is not just to carry luggage).

Just catching up before all the family arrive for lunch and just had to come on and say how sorry that Donna has been sent such an unpleasant email. Please send her my support as she works so hard and is so lovely. It is no wonder that you were feeling down yesterday, Shirley, but I am glad that you are feeling better today.

Definitely not loppy behavour especially Stage Loppies.

Sorry if I'm going on a bit, but I just wanted to also applaud Donna on the way she has continued to be there for everyone on LMAS and has kept updating the site and responding to the loppies without showing any sign of being so upset. That shows real strength of character, well done!
Think I'd better stay in bed today and try to get rid of this dose, (have to get back to work tomorrow) does the GO make housecalls? Quite fancy one of those croissants Eva mentioned!
No I don't suppose thats a good idea, I shouldn't risk spreading germs and making him sick.
Well I suppose listening to him sing will have to do.

Just wanted to say that personal abuse of any sort is cowardly and to do via the anonymous medium of email really highlights that. Donna has chosen to provide a service in her spare time to a lot of like minded fans of Lee, which she does really well, despite being a teacher, wife and mother to two small boys, a not inconsiderable achievement. Just wanted to reiterate what other Loppies have said and to wish you well Donna and thank you for what you do.

Back to listening to a certain CD whilst making Dollop's birthday cake for her party later today.

Hi Eva
Have you tried sending your pics again? nothing here yet.
I have contacted My server to see if they have any information that could help, especially as there has been no feedback telling of any failures, I will await there response (should be tomorrow)
but I have recieved mail from Carol and Jo yesterday containing photo's with no problems, lets hope it's just a glitch.

Can I also add my support to Donna. Just can't think why anyone would do that.

Shirley - I did wonder why you were so down especially as you had just seen Lee and this usually induces LIGGING (Lee Induced Grinning) for at least a week. So sorry it brought you down but you know that you and Donna have our full support always. Hopefully the AT Show on Tuesday should be a laugh and raise Loppy morale!!

Talking of spreading the Loppy love, I found out that my friend who is coming to see Joseph with me is more of a Loppy than I thought! Not only is she really really looking forward to seeing the show she has also listened alot to Lees album (so much so that she knows the words!) and was quite happy to listen to me ramble on with all my Lee news!! She has always known I am abit bonkers but at least she supports me when it comes to Lee!!

Karen C - thank you for the offer of a copy of the lovely smiley photo you took - I would love one! Just let me know how much etc! Well done on taking such a lovely photo, I know I keep going on about it but if you had seen mine! Actually it might be a laugh to send in our worst scrum photos for everyone to see, I have some classics!

Eureeeeeka Got the first one Eva

What a waste of a morning!! I lent my car to Dollop last night and gave her money for petrol. This morning half way to Wicklow - ping - out of petrol. Silly me hadn't checked the fuel guage before leaving home - well! I trusted that Dollop had done as asked. Spent an hour sitting on the motorway waiting to be rescued. Never mind. You know what they say - 'when life hands you a lemon, make lemonade'. Never worked out who 'they' are but as I'm a loppy I'm making leemonade.

Thats two Eva

Oh dear Jenny - naughty dollop! How frustrating it is when that happens.

Pauline2 - I think, you think right, not sure but I think so.

Oh and I've just had an e-mail from Geri - she's down with a nasty migraine, poor Lephry - ohmmm! ohmmm!

Oh Martin,- I'm so pleased. It really shouldn't take as long as it does to post these photos, because I spent 25 minutes posting 6 pics. But thank you for your patience and your help.

Shirley - thanks fro the trust in me - cheque is def on its way.

ooh poor donna. I really dont understand the problem with people. My view is that if someone is good enough to do all the work that Donna does (and does so professionally) I support her in her choices - even if I didnt necessarily agree with any (not that has happened) I would still support her decision as i recognise how much she does for us. "love and hugs" back Donna

Geri - get better soon.

I don't post much but read the forums every day and I have to say how much I enjoy hearing from you all.
These groups have been a great help to me in what has been a very bad year and Donna, Shirley and Everyone has my full support and I feel very sad that someone who pupports to be a Loppie can act in this awful way.

[ I hope this sounds OK - I'm not very good at expressing myself !!!]

Anne x

Donna how awful to get such a nasty email. And what is even more shocking that is a known “loppy “ on this blog and on LMAS. This can’t be!!
It is good to see all proper loppies are outraged and are completely behind you including me.
I hope you and Shirley will realise how many of us are so grateful for all you are doing for the loppies.

Shirley great to read what for impact Lee has on your life and for so many other loppies.
Good luck today with the t-shirts.

KarenC I loved your story of 4 strange ladies coming together in the train because of Lee.

Karen good on you. Just think of your destination if you should have a difficult moment in the train. He and Jane will help you through it, I am sure.

I've had rather a hectic week, been to the theatre 4 times in last 8 days, not at all typical just worked out like that, highlight of course Wednesday, so am just catching up with all the latest news, with a nice G&T in my hand.

I am totally shocked about the e-mail to Donna and completely baffled, who could do such a thing and why? It's incomprehensible and horrible, poor Donna.

I loved your video of Mushroom, Shirley, it reminds me of the early days of The Chickenshed Company, which started in Barnet in a very small way when my children were young and has now grown into a well knowm national institution, they sang with the Josephs at Wembley. They have a similar 'inclusive' policy. Let's hope we can help Mushroom to the same success.

Loved latest instalment Geri, glad Throb is O.K. and John Deep is to have more training at Mount View, incidentally did I hear Antony say he'd left there already? To join 'Dream On' I suppose, wonder whether that will be the right decsion for him in the long term.

Thanks for reviews of ST, must try to see soon.

Afternoon Ladies and any Ploppies that may be about.

At last Eva and I managed to get her photo's to me, these are now in the appropriate albums online.
The problem was the photo's were fairly high resolution and therefore a largish file size i.e. 2mb most providers will not allow 2 of these to go in 1 e-mail (file too large) slightly annoying I know but thats the way it is.
High resolution photo's is good because it means anybody downloading them can manipulate them (Zoom/ crop etc) and print in good quality, but it takes longer to upload/download.
the only other way is to reduce resolution (Quality) and het a lesser quality printout.

anyway for the newby's out ther the photo's can be found at
http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4

Well shutting down now my son and his partner are unfortunate in the fact they have invited me round for dinner.

Helen W can you email me when you have finished lunch. I think I need THUD details from you - shirley.cooke@btopenworld.com should do the trick.

Tiffy you expressed yourself just fine, and thank you for dropping in to offer your support too. In fact I am amazed and delighted to meet so many 'lurking Loppies' - please feel free to stay or pop in any time you like.

Blimey its a mass bath in the pond right now. Must be more than 20 starlings in there bathing - of course they have gone by the time I finished typing it - not that speedy. But they were there - honest.

Geri - poor Lepri - you know how I sympathise. Hope it soon passes and that the medication helps in the meantime.

Right off to have some lunch, and to look at Eva's photos. Then some sleep to catch up on. I mostly have the finances sorted.

Oh just heard the GO. Part of the wind down on EP and saying that she is essential listening. Gone all gooooooey.

Geri, you poor thing, hope your migraine is soon under control and will definately ohhhmm for you.
Tiffy I thought that sounded fine and you expressed yourself very well.
Just listened to Micheal Ball on EP, he does sound a nice chap and she played his version of "Love changes everything". Better by far than the guy I heard in Aspects but still couldn't help thinking how fantastically well the GO would sing it....and I still want him to beat MB to the award of course!

Martin - enjoy your lunch - any news from Maggie!? Thanks for keeping an eye on us all!!
Geri - get well soon!
Cx

Just had a thought, aren't the South Bank Show awards on tonight? We know he was there, so we might get a glimpse!

Pauline - I dont suppose MB or EP mentioned Lee at all? I agree about Love Changes everything, cant wait to hear HIM sing it one day, Definitely worth recording the South Bank Show as wasn't there footage of him arriving with MB and ben?

No Shirley2 unfortunately they didn't say anything about him, it was all about MB really, how dare they!
Yes that's what I thought, must make sure to get the early bit that will probably show arrivals.

Hello everyone. It's only taken me nearly the whole day to sort out new laptop! I couldn't even open the darn thing to start with - don't laugh - I was trying to open it from the back! Doh

Will have a quick skim but a proper read will have to wait.

Just wanted to add my support to Donna - can't believe someone from here would do such a thing.

Yep, don't forget the South Bank Show awards tonight. Fingers crossed there's at least a glimpse of the GO. The programme doesn't end till midnight so I think I'll be feeling rather sleepy tomorrow.

My laptop went into total meltdown early on Friday eve and I haven’t been able to get back on line until today. Not caught up with everything but I’m shocked after reading Shirley’s post about an abusive and personal attack on Donna from a loppie(?) just want to add my support. I personally really appreciate the huge commitment you make to LMAS and all true loppies would echo this. Such behaviour is totally unacceptable in my book.
So sad to hear you have been caused so much distress.

Sending Luv n’ Big Hugs to both of you.

Sue x

Pen - thanks for that number - I will def bear it in mind for future ref as I don't think I can expect Jane to accompany me on all future train journey's, unless they're GO related of course then I feel sure she would feel it her Loppy duty to accompany me (right Jane!!?).

Geri - poor you, hope you're soon feeling better.

Well, having had a succesful day yesterday transferring all my files I have spent today watching Gillian's dvd's and Gillian, I have to say they are fantastic - the picture and sound quality is excellent - I'm well impressed and another big thank you to you.

I sit here barely able to see the screen as I am so upset by what has been written about a terrible person who sent a single private email of complaint to Donna when she was at the end of her tether through frustration - that person is me and I now feel as though you are all ganging up on me by adding your public denouncement of me without stopping to wonder for one moment why anyone would have cause to complain. No one is perfect, not even Donna. I have been so tempted to post details on the forum but I am a thoughtful person who does not wish to rock the boat. If one private email provokes this sort of response I can only imagine what will happen when Donna tells the world how terrible I am - she feels bullied by one private message...imagine how I feel now.

Hi there! Just a quick post to tell you I'm going away for the evening. Another night out on the tiles, you're thinking? No such luck. I'm off to Stanstead to pick up a friend who's been on holiday in Norway. Her useless lump of a husband can't be bothered so I said I'd come and fetch her. It's a long way and with my luck, I won't be back until close to midnight. Don't worry, Sky+ is turned on, so hopefully will have a soothing glimpse of Himself when I get back.
It's been a busy day alltogether, so sorry I haven't posted a lot, but hey, you do very well without me.
I'll hopefully look in tomorrow morning before I go back to my friend in London, so have a good Sunday night and think of me going up the M2, the M25, The M11 and then all the way back again! I have some nice CDs to keep me company!!!

Evening all, well I think I've got a gremlin in the house, just got back from my Sloppy, put hall light on, phut out it went, came in the lounge same thing, then went in the kitchen and one of the halogen spots had gone! Even worse it's the one I have trained on my GO calender, grrrrr.
Diana could I be a total pain and ask for a reminder of Stephnies pictures and the deadline? I know, I know I'm so sorry!
Safe journey Eva, and here's hoping the GO is here to welcome you home!

OK I know I will probably regret this but going to step in and interfere - when I know a) it is none of my business and b) I dont know any details

Castoutloppy (COL)If you didnt mean to uspet Donna in your email but just to draw her attention to something then perhaps that needs to be presented to Donna - perhaps through a third person if that helps. It sounds as if your frustration veered into soemthing stronger in your email and although that can happen (I know when i look at what i have written on blog sometimes i cringe) it does need to be recognised and also the fact that Donna very upset by it also recognised - and indeed apologised for. We can all say/write things we wish we hadnt after heat of moment died down so best to deal with it now in an unemotional way (which is where a third person can help)and then move on.

Ok i will step out of fire now and go and write my resignation letter - for work as made my decision re the new job - but feels quite apt at moment.

I already tried a third party approach before sending the single private email that has caused this furore - and that third party has publicly denounced me here already. There are two sides to every story but when people are only prepared to listen to one there is not much point trying to explain the other. Thank you very much for being the one person to show an iota of concern for me. I dare say you all know who I am by now and I have to admit to being very hurt that you all immediately turned against me without bothering to wonder why I sent my message in the first place.

Sorry I missed you Eva, hope you had a safe journey. Not a nice night to be out on the roads at all. And yes, I find the GO singing to ne is hugely helpful on long journeys, and short journeys, and middle length journeys..... And if I was a lush Loppy I am sure I would be recommending a strong drink to help you unwind.

Pauline, sounds to me like you had a power surge. Sadly not nearly as exciting as it sound just more power coming down the wires than appliances and bulbs can cope with. So they blow. Often happens in storms and high winds - like tonight. And thanks for the reminder about Stephanies photos. Now they really are unmissable. They have that same appeal that the Echo ones had - for me.

Which reminds me, I need some help and advice please ladies. I am going to get one of those photos to use as part of our next fundraiser - my question is - given a completely free choice would you want to win the photo on the cover of The Stage, page 14 or page 15? And what size would be best for you. 8" x 10", 18" x 12" or 16" x 20" - mindful that the bigger ones could be too busy for some people so thought I had best ask.

And just to reassure everyone - there will be no fundraising activity after the current raffle ends on 14 February, until shortly before Easter. But we are mindful that there has been some form of fundraising going on since September - and when I did my information gathering about how you would all like the fundraising to work virtually everyone wanted 3 or so discrete fundraisers in the course of the year, but with good breaks inbetween. So the first break is coming up soon.

I should of course have said too bigm not too busy.

Lee is being danced to on Dancing on Ice!! By Greg Rusedski average skating fab voice singing!

Shirley I think as a raffle maybe the middle size. For me I think I would find the larger one ok, see what others think, but should be fairly big to make it special!

Yes I heard it Pauline, it definitely was the GO, but why did announcer say from 'The Broadway Show, Joseph' I wonder.

COL, I haven't a clue who you are.

oooooh wasn't that a quick thrill. Our boy on the telly again!! When I saw the outfits at the very begining I just KNEW it was going to ADWD - with 'all those colours'.
Have been off line for most of afternoon so need to catch up on the blog and email .. well after Larkrise etc.
Oh, and I have a lovely new scanner/printer fully installed now. Big smiles.
Hope everyone has had a good day.

Shirley, I personally would prefer 8x10. Ploppy would def complain profusely if I wanted to display a larger image! He can barely cope with the calendar poor love!

Thats sort of my take too Suex. I am trying to keep my collection to the kitchen family room, but if I get much more I have no doubt Ploppy will be digging a cellar to put it all in!!!!

As you know, I've been incapacitated with a severe migraine all day and I haven't posted. I'm deeply saddened, Carys, by your decision to leave LMAS and I do hope you'll re-think it.

It is unfortunate that a matter that was, and should have remained, private between two people was made public. I know there are hurt feelings on both sides, but the loppies need both you and Donna. Please try to resolve this and stay with us.

Hello, well after a long and hard think I have decided not to 'out' the Loppy on the forum, it is not necessary!!!! and I do not like the idea of public humiliation either. I know that I have a lot of support and I know that I am not perfect, not my any means! But I do try my best to please everyone and if this Loppy is so disgruntled by me and the way I have dealt with things then it is their loss. It is just a shame that it has to be someone who I was so pleased to 'know' and have on board. But such is life I suppose!

Thanks for all your good wishes and I am glad that I have been able to think things through and I know that I have come to the right decision!

Please though if you have a criticism don't let it fester - let me know pronto before it builds into something like this!

Donna
xxxxx

http://news.bbc.co.uk/player/nol/newsid_7200000/newsid_7204900/7204946.stm?bw=bb&mp=wm&news=1&nol_storyid=7204946&bbcws=1

This is a video showing Lewis in The Adelphi Dressing Room during his Jan holiday cover, the March cover mentioned.
Please, Loppies of the world unite in peace, love and admiration of the wonder that is the GO in that coat.
The one thing that shines out for me in the Joseph Story is the blessing of the wisdom and joy of forgiveness that brings the family together again. Together talented, generous Loppies have achieved so much and there is more to do.

Dear Donna and Castout Loppy -

I'm very sorry to see both of you so distressed. I do hope that in due course the rift between you may be healed. Both of you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love

Jane

I have been remiss in not posting my review from last Wednesday. My poor excuse is busy time at work and having two four day weeks means I have to catch up at home. This afternoon I’ve spent 6 hours trying to get ahead for next week. First for those who have sent their ooohhhmms, my little horse who was acutely ill last Tuesday, was fighting fit by Friday. Back to his cheeky bouncy self. On Saturday he went out with a lady and cantered and trotted like a 20 year old (as he is in his late 30’s, that’s good). Today he was bright eyed and ate his carrots just like usual.

Wednesday, excited rushing around in the morning, did the notes for one appraisal before 9:00, get on blog everything freezes up when I try to post, wouldn’t shutdown, then it did. Now slightly late, double double check ticket. Rush to opticians, very thorough eye test, and no time to choose new glasses train going in 10 minutes. Quick walk to station and the day begins.
Such a good journey got to meeting place and met up with old and new friends. So odd, as after 2 minutes chatting can’t remember if it is the first time you’ve met or not. Had a really good veggie lunch and more chat and laughs. Went to Covent Garden, too cold, so off to the pub. After scouts sent out around the pub (so many floors and corners), Eva found a very nice place for us with enough room for all the others to join. Loppy after Loppy joined. Then it was TIME...... I just get so excited as I walk those last few yards (metres for young or European Loppies).

I said that there were subtle changes in the show. On reflection they were all due to the new narrator, Jenna, and her interactions. She was much warmer than Preeya, friendlier to the children more convincing as she was chatting. I noted this particularly in the scene before the camel and the snake talk. She also seemed to be more tender in her interactions with Joseph. Also she is much taller than Preeya, so brings (don’t really know how to describe it) a different shape to the stage. Her voice is easy on the ear, clear and strong and not a single requirement on my part to wince. I think she has a very slight lisp, only noticed it occasionally.

He was wonderful, voice so strong and clear. Red mark on side of lower leg (insect bite from hols). I did not use my binoculars so can not add to the body hair debate (AliB). His curly fringe was longer and so lovely. I could go on and on, but would repeat others. Just to say bouncy, sweat, eyebrows, smile, a few pounds have been added (I’m sure the running and bouncing will see to that in a couple of weeks), love seeing him.

Slight prop malfunction; when he slams the golden cup to the floor, the flat base flew off.

I’ve found out why the dress circle rarely give a standing ovation or stand in the megamix, we were told to sit down by theatre staff. (They must have missed you Ali B, perhaps they thought you were still sitting!!!??)

Over too quickly. Then the after show, a bit of a scrum. Very disappointing pics from me, although I may enter for a special effects prize.

Shirley, the FrontPage photo or the photo of page 15 will be fantastic. And as for size: the bigger the better.

Jane E, well put.

Vali-link, got to say ahhh, he's such a young lad. I know we make fun of him, in fun. I do hope he does well. He'll never be the GO.

Jo, so good to hear your horse is back to rights. Enjoyed reading your review and isnt it interesting the different things we notice? Sitting in the front stalls I didn't see the cup malfunction must have had my eyes focussed somewhere else!!! OOOh Matron!!!!

Donna - i think you have come to the right decision - thank you.

Like Geri - I am so sorry that the end result has been in Carys leaving LMAS - I, like so many others, owe our ability to watch and watch again the ADWD series to Carys and we are indebted to you for that. Have to say I hadn't sussed you castoutloppy - makes me realise that my "whodunnit" skills have declined considerably since the sad loss of Morse.

It does make me wonder if there is a role for a "mediator"/ customer complaint section on LMAS where queries/complaints/frustrations can be screened so that when issue gets to Donna it is perhaps less emotional - hopefully it would be a little used service.

Anyway I would just echo geri and jane E in the hope that you can both resolve and heal your difference and your upset feelings.

Thanks for that Jo4!! Nothing and nobody will stop me standing when I go and see it in March!! I am sitting in M14 so I won't be able to hear them shouting at me anyway!!

I am going to video the South Bank Awards, if anyone is going to stay up and watch it please can you note rough times of when Lee appears?! Sorry but the show itself looks abit boring (I am so uncultured me!) so I will be watching it on fast forward! Thanks!!

Good review Jo4 - do you know I hadn't even noticed the prop malfunction. I wonder where I was looking? Same place as SueX I suspect,

Ooo meant to say earlier - Karen I happily volunteer for hand holding duty on any outing to see the GO!

And with that, I'm off to tend a poorly Ploppy.

Good night all!

Hi troops - been missing all day due to one thing and another, but did hear the GO on Dancing on Ice which I watched with Sloppy - I got all excited!
Sorry for all the bad feeling flowing around, let's all be friendly please!
OK have to be up early tomorrow as I need to be in the office before 8am so that I can go to a funeral tomorrow (sister in law's father), so I will wish you all Sweet Meads.
Cx

Does anyone have contact details for Helen W? I need details of the THUD she wants - I think!

Jo4 glad to hear your horse has made such a speedy recovery. Must have been a great relief to you. And lovely to read your review - as Sue said we could not see that particular prop malfunction from the front stalls. rather over our heads as it were. But I can live with that - a small price to pay for being so close to the GO.

Does everyone who is coming to the AT show on my ticket have their copy of it? I will resend it if anyone has lost or deleted it. I think we are arriving at the Studios well before the show but just in case.... Vali has pointed out to me that there is an alert against this rail line on Tuesday that there may be shortened trains and mention is made of buses. so please make sure you are independent of me - just in case. My reading of the instructions is that if you have a copy of the email confirming 6 Priority tickets for me, and giving my name, you will be allowed in. Hopefully nothing will go awry but better to be prepared.

Well having been wakened four times in the night by a little bitch with a very upset stomach I am heading for my bed.

Geri I hope your migraine passes and you feel better tomorrow. Goodnight everyone, sleep well and have Sweet Meads. I hope we all have a more peaceful day tomorrow.

Jo4 I'm so pleased that your horse is so sprightly again. Love your review and have to say I didn't notice the prop malfunction either! Must have been something else going on that stopped me noticing!
Watched the Lewis thing, thanks Vali, nope doesn't do it for me at all I'm afraid. I know how young he is but just doesn't seem to have any charisma. Still time will tell, ALW obviously thinks he has something.

About the prop malfunction maybe it was my view from the dress circle. It flew near THE face, or so the angle I got made it look.

Shirley, thanks for the warning about travel, I'll check my route.

queries /complaints/ frustrations cannot be screened when there is a complete breakdown in communication due to a lack of technical expertise regarding the complications of electronic mail or the netiquette involved. If Donna feels incapable of dealing with a single slight criticism by herself maybe she does need a whole department to do it for her - in fact she already has that here as so well illustrated by the daggers that were instantly drawn in her defence even though no one knew who had sent the message or what it contained. I have distanced myself from the forum tonight but will have to view it to make sure any queries about outstanding matters are dealt with properly. Friends do occasionally fall out and in time differences can be forgotten but when a whole gang turns on an individual and turns them into an instant pariah that means more than one fence has to be mended and will take longer to forgive and possibly forget. Thank you to the people who have expressed concern and encouragement and to the people who drew daggers might I appeal to your better nature and request that this matter is dropped and we can continue being loppies together leaving the injured parties (yes there are more than one) in peace. It should never have been made public in the first place.

Hello all, thought I would let you know I'm still alive and well, before I attempt to catch up. I see you've moved home too, I hope it was less traumatic than my move!
Computer finally set up, dial up is all I'm afraid, but at least I can 'talk' to you all again. I've missed the reviews, and The Knight's Tale, so I'll catch up now, see you later.

Evening all. As per usual these days I meant to quickly catch up with all the goings-on in the loppy world.
As requested I won't pass comment - and don't feel entitled to since I don't know what has been said in private - except to reiterate the expressions of gratitude to Donna for her dedication to spreading the loppy love.
Jo4 and KarenC - loved your little snippets of interesting info from your trips to the show. As I've said before (I think - my memory is so overloaded with w**k stuff these days I can't be sure)sometimes it's the little things that add that extra bit of magic to our experiences of the GO.
In case I don't get another chance: have a fantastic time at the AT recording and please do report back in technicolour detail - almost as good as being there.

Hi Sue, glad you managed to find us. Hope new house is all set up soon.

Elisabeth, I like the little details too, as everyone sees from a different angle (physical, where you are sitting) and with different secondary priorities (1st GO, of course). For example it was a surprise to me that during CED there were other singers. I checked this time as I couldn't work out how on the recording on the Joseph site they were there and I'd only heard HIM at the show. Selective hearing and too much of my brain was being used on the visuals!!!! Can't think why.

That reminds me. I'm not a conflict person. I think all of us need to spend a few minutes on this link.
http://www.queerty.com/go-joe-go-20070713/joseph2jpg/

It's been posted before, I do not apologise for posting again.

Shirley-Stage photo Page 14, mmmmmm, NOT the biggest size, that might frighten my little darlings.

Having to travel a long distance alone, gave me plenty time to think. All day I have been very uncomfortable about us discussing someone we don't know who is, what has been said and why. The matter should never had been brought to this blog's attention anyway, especially not when it was only hinted at who the person was. This made for very awkward postings from me, because I had no clue who it was. It was a private mail sent to Donna, and it should have been a matter to be dealt with in private. Remember what has been said on LMAS earlier when critisism has been posted, keep it private! That is what, as I now know, Carys has done, and she is perfectly entitled to do so.
I am sorry I didn't voice this earlier,- I would have done if I hadn't been a bit of a coward. I sent a mail to Donna this morning expressing my thanks for the work she does on LMAS, and since I didn't know until I came back home again who this person was, I have had no opportunity to say anything to her. I will do so in a private mail, expressing my thanks for the things she has done for all of us.
Let's hope this is the end of the matter on this blog. Let us NOT in the future talk about others behind their backs. If we can't talk frankly and with all the facts up front, let's not bring it up here.
I am very tired, but having read through what had been written since I left this afternoon, I had to put down the thoughts that had been bothering me all day.
Good night ALL OF YOU, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

South bank, not a glimpse, but I wasn't glued to the screen
Nightlee night all

Yes Jo, there were several shots of GO sitting next to Christopher Biggins, he had his jacket off and looked very relaxed!

Now I've just posted and it seems to have disappeared so if I end up repeating myself sorry!
AliB 4 sightings I spotted as follows
1. opening sequence but don't blink, of him arriving
2. 4mins in approx
3. 11mins in approx
4, 37mins in approx
all looking gorgeous, and about the only thing worth watching for me, some of it was ok though.
Thanks for the link Jo4 needed that...well I always need that!
End of long day so off to bed for me. Night night people, sleep tight.

http://pics.livejournal.com/nevernilien/pic/001bqkc5

a gift for you

Hello again all

I haven't posted for so long I have forgotten if I am jo3 (think I am!!) - but I do pop in and read all the happenings when I can! I am very sorry to hear about the unkind way Donna was treated on the LMAS site - and can only add my disgust that a so-called Loppy (or anyone else when I come to think of it)had done such a thing. I take my hat off to Donna for the wonderful work she has done in bringing us all the best of the GO.

Enjoyed the wonderful surprise of seeing Lee on the Southbank Show tonight. Once I had spotted him, I kept a close eye out and sure enough there he was several more times! Lovely!

read the messages more carefully jo3 nothing unkind has been posted about Donna either here or at the LMAS site and this 'so-called loppy' is upset by your remarks just when the rest of us were starting to move on.

Quick hello and goodbye this morning as off to office very early and will be at funeral etc. most of day, so won't be around much, but please let's not have too much ill feeling. Carys a big thank you for all the goodies you have sent our way in the past - I am sure everyone will echo that. Geri hope your migraine has passed. Have to fly now - catch up this evening.

Morning all -

Thanks for the links - a bit of Mead in the morning, just what we need.

Sue, glad you're installed in your new abode. Hope the move wasn't too traumatic.

Carol - all the best for today.

Ploppy's still ill, bless him, lots of coughing noises coming from his direction, and I'm off to the doctors shortly - what a bunch of crocks!

Good morning all Loppies

A lovely morning dawning here after the storms of yesterday and last night - anyone into good omens??

Carol I hope the funeral goes as well as these things can. JaneE - hope you are OK. Geri I hope your migraine has passed - Lots and lots of OOOOOOOHHHHHHMMNMMMSSSS heading to you all.

Helen W I am afraid if I dont get details soon for your THUD Tee, I wont be able to delay ordering any longer.

Hello Jo3. How nice to see you after all this time. And yes, Lee did look splendid on the SB show last night. I had begun to think that I would never spot him, glancing away at the wrong second I guess, but then they focussed on him and Christopher Biggins for a second or two and THUD.

And in just the one more sleep we get to see him at the AT show. According to the ticket and information they sent they transmit tomorrow's show live and then record another one (or 2??) - so we dont know whether the live transmission will be the one with Roland Rat or the one with Lee. My trusty Sky+ will be set for both in any case. Very tempted to take some Warfarin for Roland Rat though!!!!

Good morning BHB. A nice soothing camomile tea for me please, and a fresh croissant. And you are all excited about tomorrow afternoon, are you???? Thats funny, so are we!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Morning all. Just a quick look in this morning before I run out of the house for a doctors appointment and then off to the big city in the North(well, it is North of here!)and further pleasures tomorrow.
Hello sweetheart. You look good as per usual, and would you bring me my usual, please.
I hope we can all go back to the lovely, humourous place the blog is ment to be. Don't behave yourself when I'm gone. That would be boring. See you all again on Wednesday, and some of you tomorrow.

Sorry 'castout loppy' I jumped too hard, too fast and in the wrong direction as usual. I should have waited for the facts.
I hope you and Donna can find some common ground and reach a solution but if not, the Loppies won't be the first family in the world where two members aren't talking to each other. Back to being a lurking loppy for me.

Morning. Welcome back Sue and to the lurkers and thanks for the links.

Hope you're feeling much better today, Geri. Feeling a bit tired after watching South Bank. Ploppy wanted the Superbowl so I watched from bed but dozed off a couple of times - some lovely shots of the GO so worth staying up for.

Shirley, I don't have a copy of your "ticket" for tomorrow. Hope you don't have travel problems. I have kept Ploppy's ticket just in case but returned mine. I suspect that Lee will be on first and be live so he has plenty of time to get to the Adelphi, though we know of course that he can get from the BBC to the theatre very quickly. Must get lots done today to make up for tomorrow.

Oops, forgot to mention Stephanie's photos. I'll ask her if we can see the other photos that weren't published.

Morning Everyone!

Pauline2 - Thank you for the above timings!! I have absolutely no will power and ended up watching the first 40 mins!! Far from being boring as I thought it was fun to play 'spot Lee' in the audience! It must have been hot in the room as he took his jacket off!! Anyway over on the forum - it is already on youtube!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQbA1ZzzJog

Eva - Thanks for writing what you wrote above, I agree with you.

Roro has kindly posted this link on the Forum to the glimpses of Lee on the SB show last night.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=gQbA1ZzzJog

Anyone know who the lady sitting next to Lee is. You can see her in the shot over Alan Davies' shoulder.

Diana - copy of the tickets on its way to you.

Morning all, nice day today here as well.
JaneE hope all goes well for you today at the doctors, and have an ohhhhhhhhhhhhmmmmmm foryou and your Ploppy, poor thing.
AliB must say that was probably why I found bits of SBS boring, he wasn't on enough!
Hello there BHB, yes it is a nice day isn't it, could I just have coffee and toast this morning please, and as usual there aren't many people around so perhaps you'd like to join me?

Shirley - re the Stage photos, I cant really decide. The cover one is complete whereas with the inside ones the top of his head is missing. Perhaps we need to see exactly what they are offering ie maybe they will be complete and what others we can choose from. 10 x 8 is quite a good size but I dont really mind.
I sort of recognise the lady at the SB Awards but cant put a name to her

I have just had a thought. Coming up sometime in March (sorry don’t know exact date as I am at work) it must be the first anniversary of the first show of Any Dream Will Do!! Therefore the first time we all saw Lee! I think it would be really cool if we commemorated this historic and life changing day in some way ie National Loppy Day!! What do you think?!

Hi castout Loppy

Sorry if I gave offence - but I know that there has been more than one occasion when Donna has received hurtful messages in her role as leader of the LMAS site, and I wanted to add a message of my support for her and all she has done.

Yes time to move on, and timely too to recognise the work many have put into supporting Lee.

and I should have added to my last message that I did not mean to infer that anything hurtful was actually on the LMAS site, but sent to Donna. Over and out...

Have just watched the clip of Lee at SBS on Youtube I think us LUSH'S should have been there judging by all the bottles on the table!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I recognised the grey haired lady sitting next to Lee at the SB awards.
She is an actress but I just can't recall her name.

Deanna, she reminds me of the actress who played the wife in One Foot in the Grave - Annette?? Somthing?? Sorry not brilliant with names. But not sure it is her anyway.

Sue glad you are in your new home, and reconnected to the virtual world.

AliB - liking your idea. We could have a whole series of anniversaries couldnt we. I think national Loppy day would have to be the annivesary of the day Carol's friend came up with the name. Then we could have the anniversary of Lee winning ADWD. The anniversary of the Opening night of Jo. The anniversary of Lee winning his first award, the anniversary of the first time he won ROTY, the anniversary of his first album release, his first gold disc......... Suggestions please!!!

Only just managed to get back, sorry but I have to comment on the recent upset, I'm so stunned I can't think of anything else. I am so sorry that this has blown up.

Cast Out Loppie, daggers were instantly drawn because we all love Donna, and much appreciate everything she does, the thought of her being hurt, hurts us too.
Of course there are two sides to every story, and perhaps people jumped to Donna's defence quickly not realising that the other person may be hurt and upset as well.

Donna, it goes without saying that we love you much, and support you always. You do such a lot for us Loppies, and have done from day one, in spite of all your 'real life' commitments.

I love this blog, and I love being a Loppie, and although I know people fall out, sometimes irrevocably, I hate to think of it happening here, and echo the thoughts of Jane E and Vali. I hope this can be mended.

Morning all, no, not Annette Crosbie I agree, face so familiar, wasn't she in a comedy some years ago with Ronnie Corbett playing his Mum?

Was it Sorry (81-88), Ronnie Corbett was Timothy Lumsden and Barbara Lott played his Mum "language Timothy" according to Wikipedia.

Oh no, Barbara Lott sadly died in 2002. Any other ideas anyone?

I know, I know who it is!! Well, I think so anyway, its Eileen Atkins!! She played Judi Dench's sister in Cranford (the one that died suddenly!!). Thats were we all recognise her from.

You are all going to get me going with this as I'm sure I recognise her face but can't put a name to it.
Loving the anniversary ideas, I'm sure we could almost manage one a week from March!

Ow! Ow! just got back from the Doctor's - my silly poorly paw is infected again, and I've had to have a tetanus jab (Ow! ow!) and another batch of antibiotics.

Thank you Pauline2 for the ohmmms, much appreciated.

Pen and Jo3 - very nice to hear from you.

Ali B - National Loppy Day - great idea!

I'm afraid I can't add to the guess the actress game, but hey! It looks like fun!

Stephanie is going to send me a contact sheet of Lee's photos so we can see all of them. It's going to be difficult choosing!

Cast Out Loppie, Sorry if I'm dragging this on but I feel it would be wrong of me not to say what I should and then I will of course shut up and mind my own business.
I want to echo what a number of people have said, esp. Sue and Pen. I'm sorry if I overstepped the mark and said too much. I didn't have all the facts and was probably wrong to comment at all. I guess I just jumped on the bandwagon. I have learned a lesson with this.
I can't take back the positive stuff I said about all that Donna has done and I will now add that you also have done, but I am prepared to apologise for the negative. I still feel that there are such good vibes, support and friendship demonstrated by loppies and I hope that this spirit will heal the rift. You have said about starting to move on and you're right.
Thankyou for posting the picture above, it reminds us all of what we have in common.

Came back to work today altho' still coughing so much I think I'm scaring them in here.

Liking the idea of National Loppy Day!

http://www.trh.co.uk/home.php
It's not Dame Eileen. Pic of Dame Eileen Atkins in her latest play, much more glam in real life than in Cranford.

Vali - those actors promotional head shot photos can sometimes be years old! The more I watch it though I can't be sure its her. Its such a fleeting glance in that youtube clip its really hard to tell! Next time anyone sees Lee they will have to ask him!!

Carys, I would like to add my apology to others and feel that I jumped to a hasty conclusion. It is a natural instinct to defend someone you regard as a friend, but in the world of cyberspace it is all too easy to misread situations. What should clearly have been a private matter between you and Donna should not have been raised in public, putting pressure on both of you and making a tricky situation worse.

I respect both of you for the time and energy you have dedicated to providing Lee goodies to lots of Loppies around the world and hope that you can resolve whatever the differences are between you.

On a completely different note, thanks to all of you for your advice about my poor cat. We think that he is completely stressed by a feral tabby cat which has been coming in and eating his food for the last few weeks. I have thrown away everything that has been soiled, on your advice, and am trying to spot when he gets stressed. We have had a few more accidents, but fortunately confined to the kitchen, where it's easier to clean. Ploppy is now on a one man mission to rid the neighbourhood of this horrible cat!

Oh dear, another mammoth catch up of the blog and it's left me feeling quite deflated. I was so chuffed to be mentioned in the Knight's Tale (I trust Alley-oop was me Geri?) and then all the upset. I don't want to rake it all up again, so suffice to say I'm thinking of both of you and ovr time I trust that bridges can be rebuilt, now can we please draw a line under it?
Jackie, glad you seem to have found the source of the problem. Our old lady was upset by her son's deteriorating health and picked up after he had to be put to sleep, we thought the opposite would happen and she'd pine for him!
I too recognise the actress sitting next to Lee but like everyone else I can't remember her name either. She was in a costume drama recently and I believe she was either the wife or secretary of a detective/policeman in some show. This will really bug me now, please let someone put me out of my misery soon.
Finally, have a great day tomorrow all those going to AT recording and PLEASE come back and tell us all about it!

Ali - what sort of animal did the old lady's son have?! Its sounds like the old ladys son was put to sleep!! Can I say to about AT - to all those going - if you do have to suffer Roland Rat please listen out for him to say 'Hey Rat Fans!!' and this might make you smile!! Also you will be able to see the poor s*d that operates him!!

Stephanie has just forwarded the contact sheet to me. THUD in triplicate!!! Oh boy there are some gorgeous photos. Don't know how I'm going to choose. Anyway I will forward the sheet to Shirley to send on so you can all look and droooollllll.

Sorry Alib if I confused you, our old lady is a 17 year old cat and we also had her son, a big ginger tom, who was diabetic. He started having fits last year and she got quite stressed. Once he was put to sleep (on the vet's advice) we worried that she would pine away but she has been much better. So sorry if my previous post didn't make sense!! I thought I'd mentioned it previously in response to a query from Jackie?

Ali - right, OK, makes perfect sense now! Sorry, me being abit thick!!

Good news! According to someone on the forum, Alan T just announced that his guest on tomorrows show would be Lee! Sorry, no confirmation on Roland!

A quick hello from me. Just seen a post on LMAS saying AT has just announced Lee will be on tomorrow so big squeal for all you lucky loppies going. Have a great time and come back with full reports asap.

I did the same as you AliB with the South Bank Awards as in thought I'd video it but ended up watching half of it. I thought our boy looked a bit tense of jaw but lovely all the same. Poor him sitting next to Biggins and probably not being able to drink if he had a show that evening.

I listended to a bit of DVO's debut this morning on Capital. They were having a phone in discussion about disasterous first dates but she didn't mention the GO but then I don't suppose it was a disaster. I don't think I can bring myself to listen to it every morning on the off chance she may mention him.

Hi Alison! When I get home I am going to watch the South Bank Show Awards again to see the GO of course but also to see if I can get a better look at who the woman sitting next to him is! I wondered if anyone listened to Capital this morning - the radio in my car is broken so I couldn't tune in!

Jackie - I am sure you have found the reason for your cat's behaviour. We have four and each time a new one has arrived our oldest one Suzy has protested in the only way she knows how! The most recent a very pretty tortoiseshell had, unbeknown to us, been stealing her food and bullying her. Poor Suzy was on the point of leaving home staying out for longer and longer. Now we realise what was happening Suzy is getting plenty of attention and has her own private litter box and so far no more 'accidents' Your cat probably just wants extra attention so lots of cuddles are in order. About the stray - capture it and hand it to the cats protection league or RSPCA - as it obviously is in search of a good home.

Thanks Carys. We had sort of come to the conclusion that our cat was really freaked out by this other cat. We had been joking about it to our cat telling him to sort it out and I think that has made it worse. So I told Dollop at the weekend not to mention the other cat and in a tone of withering condescension she said "But Mummy he doesn't understand what you say"! I beg to differ! We are going to try to catch it, but it is a very slippery customer, so wish us luck!

Good Luck with your kitty-cat Jackie!

Oh, all you poor Loppies going to AT - you're all going to miss out on Roland Rat! I'm sure you're disappointed! (Ah, no wait - I'm lying again!) Have a fantastic time guys, good to know you won't be watching that rodent!

Evening all

Thanks for the links to SBS - very brief but very lovely glimpses of Him.

Carol - hope today went okay.

Oo Jane, poor you - if you have an infected jaw does that mean you can't speak???? Good job you don't have an infected finger so at least you can still talk to us on here!!

AT Loppies - Looking forward to meeting you tomorrow and hope it's not raining!!!
Ali B - not sure how to contact you regarding Lee photo, shall i send Email to stage loppies address??
Carys - Thanks for link to the the lovelee photo

Jane E, we aren't going to miss out on Roland. The audience has to watch both shows, at least they are supposed to. I think there will be a rather restless audience for the second show.

Evening all, too right Diana, now which of us would really like to miss RR, I would have been heartbroken...not! AT also said that tomorrows other guest would be Jane Asher so we should all come back with ace cake making skills!
Still haven't placed that wretched woman! Have trawled through loads of photos as well, grrrr.
She'll probably turn out to be Biggins mother or something!

Diana - sorry, that made me laugh "the audience HAS to watch both shows" - talk about a captive audience - you'd think they'd have the sense to make you watch RR first so that the Best Is Yet To Come and you have something to look forward to rather than having the best bit first and then as you say a restless audience aferwards. Do they not know the audience will be full of Loppies (and probably Cloppies as well)!!!! Can't imagine there will be many RRoppies there!!

Just a little note to say that this identity is hopefully no longer needed and thanks for the many kind messages both here and by email. Being castout is not a nice thing and I hope it doesn't happen to any other loppy ever again.

Jackie - the CPL or RSPCA may be able to supply a cat trap! nothing nasty about it - just a cage that you bait with food and a trap door to grab the stray. You will be doing both cats a real favour:-)

LOL I just had a thought - borrow Roland Rat! LOLOL

Ohmigod just got Stephanies' photos through! How on earth am I going to choose? Fun making my mind up though!

Hi All, I've spent the last two hours answering e-mails. Whew! I'm 2/3 of the way through Chapter 14 & I should have it ready to post later tonight. No hints but...have those loppy fans handy!

Oooo Geri! I can't wait!

Sorry Karen - it's my paw not jaw! Still gabbing away quite happily.

Oh and thank goodness you guys won't miss the Rat!

Oops, sorry Jane - must read more carefully - hope you're okay.

Loppy fan at the ready Geri.... !!

Quick - hello and goodbye - funeral went as well as these things can! Now off to AGM of small singing group, but I'll be back later for the next installment Geri - fan poised of course!!

Goodness me. I turn my back for a couple of days to deal with “real” life and just look at what you all get up to!! So much stuff to catch up with. Some good, some not so. There’s certainly never a dull moment on this blogg!

Well I had probably my best working day ever today. We had a big reorganisation in the office last month so I am now working with people I don’t know that well. This morning, one of my colleagues arrived in a state of high excitement gasping “I’ve seen him. I’ve seen him!!!”. When we managed to get her to calm down enough to be rational, it turns out she went to see Joseph at the weekend! This then prompted comments from several other ladies in my section that they had been too, and one was going for the 2nd time next weekend. Who would have guessed that there would be so many Cloppies in my section? So, of course, any pretence of work had to be abandoned while we all listened to every detail of colleague’s visit (a review worthy of this site) and, best of all, she had brought in the loincloth poster from the programme so we all had a serious THUD moment! And all this before even the first cup of coffee of the day!! What a way to start the working day! Unfortunately, we are not allowed to display the poster at work, but colleague has kept it on her desk in case anyone needs a bit of a boost during the day! So lots and lots of Loppy chatter throughout the day. Bliss! At one point this afternoon, said colleague informed me in a tone of some bewilderment “I don’t understand it, I just can’t stop thinking about the show and how fabulous Lee was. I haven’t done any work today, my brain has just turned to mush!” Sound familiar?? I of course did my Loppy duty and put her in contact with her nearest branch of Loppies Anonymous (well, gave her the link to Donna’s site anyway). Suddenly, work has become a much nicer place to be!

Geri, please be gentle with us. I’m not sure if I can cope with much more excitement in one day!

Well, I have just looked at the South Bank Show again and it definitely isnt Eileen Atkins!! There is a better shot of her just before the winner of a dance award (you can just see Lee's elbow in shot)and I realised that it wasnt the fact that I recognised her and couldnt remember her name it was more the fact that I have never seen her before in my life!! So I have no clue i am afraid! I also tried the photo sites but no luck.

Karen C - yes please contact me through stage loppies if thats OK!

I looked at the site for tickets for AT and it
said for Tuesday, still Lee, Roland Rat, someone else whos name I forget and Ruthie Henshall! Nothing about Jane Asher! I hope there are no last minute guest changes as the studio will have a riot on their hands if Lee is not on!!

Hi all.

geri - glad you are feeling better and looking forward to chapter. reminds me were we going to send you some money for the framing and posting of art work as dont want you out of pocket. We all have your address so could easily send some money.

Jane E - hope your paw/jaw much better.

Missed awards but doesnt sound as if ceremony itself riveting. Caught Lee glimpses on youtube.

Enjoy AT tomorow - must set DVD - do we know if it is live or will be shown anotehr time?

Chapter Fourteen

Even before he was fully awake, Lee was aware there was something wrong. He sat up sharply and stared. He was alone. Everyone, muses, fellow knights, and Nana, were all gone. So were his clothes. He was left in nothing more than a loincloth that was much too small for his sense of modesty. He stood and looked around. Where was he? This wasn't the campsite in which he had gone to sleep.
The trees, the maze, the babbling stream, all were gone and he was in a desert. The ground beneath him was hard rock, covered with a dust too fine to be called sand. The heat of it burned his feet. There was nothing around him. No trees, no foliage, no buildings. The horizon stretched for miles with nothing to hinder it. A shimmering haze lay upon the surface and the sun above burned with an uncomfortable intensity.
He fought against the panic that rose in him. This was a challenge, he decided. He need only work out what was needed, what he had to accomplish, and everything would be well...He hoped everything would be well.
There was no breeze and the scorching air burned his skin. He was already covered with a sheen of perspiration from his forehead to his feet. His black curls were stuck to his face and his torso dripped with sweat. He would need water, and soon, he decided. But how to find it?
He started walking and had not gone very far when he heard something. He stopped and listened intently. What was that? Too distant to be heard, a soft murmuring noise. It was frustrating not to be able to hear it clearly.
"Hello!" he called. For a moment the babble of noise grew louder, then at once dipped to the barely audible hum. "Is anyone there?" he called.
He walked for hours, not sure where he was headed. He could be going in circles, he knew, but if this was a challenge they would hardly let him just wander. Would they? He heard his name. He stopped and listened. It was really infuriating to hear that murmuring noise and not be able to pinpoint it. "Can you hear me?" he cried again. Again the noise grew momentarily louder, just long enough for him to realise he was hearing voices, lots of voices, all talking together. And one of the voices had definitely said his name. There was something unnerving about it. He wondered who these people were who watched him, he spoke about him. Why couldn't he see them, or hear them clearly? There seemed, he thought, something malevolent about it. Despite the heat, he shivered.
"Am I going the right way?" he called. Nothing but the distant hum responded.
"I have to reason this out," he thought. "If I can understand what this challenge is I can overcome it. I owe it to Throb to make it to the next round."
He walked on, thinking hard. So if the maze was his career and the tower was fame what might this desert be? Perhaps the desert every career faces from time to time? But why was it so hot, he was beginning to feel faint under the glare... he stopped. Of course! It was so obvious - it was the glare of attention he must expect every moment of every day if he won the coveted title of King of Adelphi. And the whispering voices - he was sure, now, that's what they were - they were to let him know that his every move was under scrutiny.
He raised his chin. He'd overcome difficult challenges before. Hostile gazes and whispering voices would not defeat him. A knight of the Order of Joseph would not be defeated by whispers. "You shall not defeat me!" he cried. "I am not afraid!"
Suddenly, before him just a short distance away, he saw a building shimmer. It might be a mirage, he thought, but something deep inside him knew it was not.
He started walking more briskly now and soon was able to see the building clearly. It looked like a Greek temple, with crisp white columns sitting on top of steep marble steps. Within minutes he was climbing the steps.
Inside was cool and he shivered. He blinked as his eyes adjusted to the shade, a welcome relief after the savage brightness of the desert outside. He walked through a large empty hallway, his bare feet silent on the deliciously cool marble. Somewhere he thought he could hear the sounds of running water. And then he realised the whispering voices were silent.
A beautiful young woman with long hair came before him. She was wearing a purple gown and carrying a silver ewer.
"You're Lady Jane," he said. "I recognise you from the banquet."
"I am," she said, and her voice was like the tinkling of a bell.
"What are you doing here?"
"I am the Oracle," she said. "The loppies all have jobs, you know. We don't just go to fests and enjoy ourselves. Some of us are healers, some are heralds, others look after our good works. There are even a few ambassadors and a Loppy Laureate. I am the Oracle. It is my task to speak tend you in this desert of doubt."
He began to sway, but she caught his shoulders. "Come, drink and be refreshed," she said.
She poured clear water into a silver goblet and handed it to him. The goblet was encrusted with precious stones of many colours. They twinkled in the comforting light. He was shaking now from the fatigue and stress of the morning, and she held the cup to his lips and he drank thirstily. The water ran down his chin and trickled down his chest.
"You have become burned from the sun. You should not have stayed out so long. Come, lie down and I will tend the burns.”
He lay upon the butter-soft leather coach and she gently massaged his skin with sweet-smelling myrrh. He felt himself begin to fall asleep, then jerked awake sharply.
“Where are the others?” he said. “Boyz and Charming and the others.”
“Safe, safe, do not worry. Sleep.”
She massaged the unguent into his red shoulders, his back and his legs, then had him roll over and began to work on his chest. He was still tired but enjoying her ministrations too much to want to sleep. “Are they in the desert too?” he mumbled.
“Not every knight’s task was the same. It depended upon their fear.”
“Fear?”
“Yours was to be too exposed; to lose all your privacy.”
“Did everyone make it through? Are all the knights safe?” She did not at first answer and he opened his grey eyes and stared at her. “I must know, Lady Jane,” he said.
“Not all,” she answered. “Foot-tapper’s fear was being ignored and unappreciated. He was in a crowded room, but no one could see or hear him. He could not bear it.”
“How awful.”
“It is a terrible thing for an artist to be unappreciated. To sing and have no one hear your voice; write and have no one read your words. Fortunate is the artist whose talent is treasured by others.”
“Fortunate indeed. But what of Foot-Tapper, is he all right?”
“He will be. Do not worry, all will be well. Sleep now. You have been granted this gift of rest since you have come through your trials so well. Sleep.”
And despite his distress over poor Foot-Tapper, fatigue overtook him and he fell asleep.

Wow Lindsey what a brilliant day at work! Suddenly surounded by Cloppies!

Thanks Fi - oh
and Geri, I'm also happy to contribute - Euros at the ready!

So what about this story then! The graphics department want to get cracking you know!

I timed that post well! Not!

Hi Jane -- Nyah nyah nyah nyah!

If anyone wants to donate any pennies to the Valentine kitty I'll be very happy to receive them. But please don't feel obligated.

FAN! NOW PLEASE!!!!!!

JANE - JEALOUS - ME - YOU BET I AM!!!!!!

Geri, I thought we were going to be fanning Sir Lee to cool him down but WOW! Jane, you lucky girl! just lovin it thanks.
I'll pop a contribution to the Valentine ktty in the post.

To everyone going to AT, hope you a wonderful time.

Jane, don't you wish you were really there at it was not a story!!
Geri, lovely story, jealous me, oh yes. On another subject, little packet in the post to you today. I weighed it at work so stamps should be OK.

I know there have been upsets, every cloud has a silver lining... We have had some communications from 'lurkers'. Now they have made themselves known I hope they continue to post. Nice to have new views on all things GO.

Jackie, hope you see improvements in your cats 'habits' now you have identified the probable cause. One of mine has stress induced cystitus. Lovely, as he is stressed by my other cats. Most of the time he is OK, just has episodes.

Must go and check out today's links. I know I missed the glimpses on SBS.

Ring Ring - whirr click...

I'm sorry, the 'Any Knight Won't Do' Graphics Department is currently unavailable due to over-heating at the thought of illustrating the last chapter.

Please leave your message after the tone.

Beep.

To: The Graphics Department. We are pleased to offer a real deal on air conditioning, due to the rest of the UK being very chilly, we have spare stock.

O dear, I just saw the pictures of the Stage. How are we supposed to choose? They are gorgeous.!!!!
All the AT going loppies have lots of fun. Please give us a full review tomorrow night.

Geri, I will send you some euro tomorrow by mail for the valentine kitty.
I am off to read chapter 14.

Jane lucky you, but I can't grumble, still haven't washed my shoulder! Yet another stunning chapter Geri, but you really are putting the poor man through it!

Geri!!! You lucky lady Jane E!!

Lindsey, I like Loppies Anonymous.

I had a look at the SBS YouTube and don't know who the female is either. Will have to watch the video to see if she's any clearer.

I spent the train journey home looking at the contact sheet and trying to make up my mind which photos to get. Tough decision.

One of the London evening freebie papers has an interviw with DVO today re radio show. Lee is mentioned: ".... things appear to be stable in her personal life. She has been dating Lee Mead .... since last November. 'It's all good', she says. 'I'm trying to be very private about it. At the beginning I just confirmed it and said we are dating but I don't want to talk about it really. We certainly won't be turning up at premieres and milking the celebrity couple thing.'"
Q from the public - "Would you ever do a show with your man, LM?" "If the right musical roles came up".

JaneE - I see your paw has made a miraculous recovery, or did you perform the massage through gritted teeth? Thought not.
Geri - you spoil us.
AT loppies - enjoy tomorrow and don't all desert poor Roland Rat; it's not his fault he's not blessed with gorgeous curls.
Diana - thanks a lot for the details of the photos; now for the arduous task of choosing one...

Well Elisabeth, it was a hardship obviously, but the poor guy was suffering severe sun-burn I could hardly let him down!

Ooo Diana - I forgot to say about those photos (something distracted me, for some reason), they are superb! Sigh!

I'm off to bed now - Sweet Meads all!

Appropriately title vid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQ2rusEj51I

Gorgeous pics, swoon!
Yet another great chapter too. Can't wait for AT tomorrow,I'm guessing we may get some different questions posed by AT than other (female) interviewers?

Diana - thanks for the photos they are gorgeous! I expect everyone knows this but if you click on the magnifying glass symbol + at the bottom of the contact sheet, it makes the photos bigger!!

Ali B - I've tried 200% view is just about right!!
Jane - hope poorly paw feels better soon, can't have a one handed graphics dept.
Carys - Thanks for pic earlier today.
Diana - Love the photos, email sent to both your addresses, to make sure!!
Just to let you all know I've been really lucky in getting a ticket to a personal appearance of my favourite Roland Rat. I'm not certain who else will be there, but I'm only there for RR. You all believe me don't you?
Nightlee night all. I'm just going to check out my last link from last night.

Thanks for the video link, Jo4, I love that song, and the pictures weren't bad either!

Wonder if Jane's hand is feeling all better now? Hope she's not getting a fever -- she'd better call that Cool-It Company pretty quick!
My mind's in the gutter tonight (you'd never guess!) so AliB, your magnifying glass comment made me think all sorts of naughtiness...

.....overcome with thoughts of torsos, sweat and gleaming curls - may have to go and lie down! Should we speak with Lady Jane again - bad jaw or bad paw or not! Geri - totally thud worthy! Lindsey - lots of converts thrre then! Loppies Anonymous has a nice ring to it!! OK off to bed now - hope the graphics department soon recovers from its overheating (and poorly paw) OOhhhmmms to everyone still under the weather, or whose Ploppies, Sloppies or animals are in need of it! Sweet Meads all.

Another brilliant chapter Geri.
Diana & Carys, thanks for your respective photos. Bucket please.
Jo4 Thanks for the vid link.
All AT Loppies have great time tomorrow. Hope Roland is everything you hope for.
Off to make pancake batter now ready for breakfast, then off to bed. Sweet Meads all.

Well Geri, I started reading the new chapter well over an hour ago, when my beloved Ploppy rang, and for the first time in days he had time to chat and I was awake enough to want to too. So I have only just finished reading it now. And would the Cool-It company please come to my aid when they have finished installing their air con for Jane. PHEW.

So now we have the prospect of JaneE doing the illustrations of Lady Jane annointing Sir Lee with soothing oils. Methinks she will enjoy this particular task very very much.

Well having said I was off to bed nearly 2 hours ago, I might finally make it this time. After all I have a mindbogglingly exciting day tomorrow - I have a date with some other lovely Loppies to see the legend that is Roland Rat. And there is also some bloke there who won some reality tv show or another. Anyone remember who that was???? Maybe his name will come back to me when I am asleep. I wish.

Good night all. And Geri did my flippin parcel still not arrive?? So much for airmail - I should have thrown it into the ocean with an address label attached. It would have gotten there faster!!!!

So good night all loppies. Sleep tight and have Sweet Meads

OMG - have just looked at the pictures - THUD (in a very big way)! Thanks Diana/Shirley.

Off to bed with a smile on my face and sweet meads in store!!

Hello all.

A bit late tonight.

Geri - another lovely chapter. Glad that Sir Lee has gentle Loppies around him. Perhaps we should all take a fan when we go to sii Joseph.

Shirley - I hope you aren't too bogged down counting tee shirts, money and raffle tickets.
Went for balance tests for vertigo today and was given some physiotherapy which consisted of my head being turned rapidly to left, then right, ten times. I have to go back next week to see if any progress has been made.

Have you noticed that when Lee's name is mentioned everyone smiles? On Friday I went to see my GP for a check up. First the nurse asked if I was overcoming my agoraphobia, so i told her that I'd been to see Joseph. "With Lee" she asked, her smile beaming across her face. So we had a short chat as she wants to take her children. Then my GP asked me and he smiled when I told him and said he wanted to go to see Joseph and we talked about ADWD.

_Ploppy said he would like to go to see Joseph again, so I booked straight away for his birthday in May. We haven't been able to go anywhere much or have a holiday for the past few years, so we deserve a few treats now.

Better stop now, my bed is calling. Night all.

No, Shirley, no sign of the 'flippin' parcel'. But I did get a lovely little multicoloured loppy from Jane & Carol. Naturally, I'm calling her Ja-Rol. Oh, and for some reason you question about that chap who won that tv show reminds me of a question on UC tonight about Lake Mead. Oh, yeah -- was his name Lake?

See Jackie's photos on LMAS, spot Colleen and Claire.
I really am off to bed now.

To: Loppies Annoymous plc.
The Cool-It company can offer group discounts for multi site installations.

Just lost my post, will try again.

Geri, still lovin' it. It gets better and better. Jane E you lucky lady, don'tcha just wish???

Jo4 I'm a bit late with this, but I'm so glad your little horse is well again

Ladies, have a brilliant time tomorrow.

Diana, OMG the photos, I can only afford one, and it was so hard to choose. Thank you for doing this.

Bed calls, nite nite all.

Giggle. Just been emailing a friend about tomorrow and have redefined 'from the sublime to the ridiculous' Lee to Roland Rat.

Good night again.

Thanks yet again Geri for another great chapter, and Jo thankyou, thankyou for that link, it's lovely and has really got me in the mood for tomorrow!

Thanks yet again Geri for another great chapter, and Jo thankyou, thankyou for that link, it's lovely and has really got me in the mood for tomorrow!

Sorry! I'm having slight problems on this site, at the moment, very sluggish and slow to respond, thought post hadn't gone.

Goran Visnij (sp?) is on telly at the moment. Would like to stay up and watch but need to get some sleep, don't want to be yawning my head off tomorrow. Sleep tight.

Well had a slight Sloppy emergency tonight, my life is full of them! Hope all is ok now, but also friend coming with me tomorrow isn't feeling to great, so please if anyone could send me an ohhhmm I'd be grateful! I know there are more important things than getting to the show tomorrow, but....well you understand don't you?
Anyway night night all and sleep tight.

I know it's very late (or early!) but I couldn't sleep and had to google this actress as it was driving me mad!
http://www.harrypotterforever.org/images/photos_acteurs/gemma_jones.jpg
I do believe this may be the actress sitting next to Lee at the SBS awards? She played Bridget Jones' mum in the films and was in the Harry potter films and loads of other stuff.
Back to bed now or I'll never get up later, night night

If anyone missed dancing on ice here is the routine again stashed at my sharesite - help yourselves http://www.4shared.com/file/36885109/2f465ba1/rdllnw_WMV_2_.html

There has been much talk abut badges lately so I wondered if anyone would like a brand new and exclusive design - only to be worn by qualified stage loppies, in other words those who have posting on all the blog threads here. I hope you like it. copyright is mine
http://public.fotki.com/CarysSigs/lee/fan.html

Quick good morning as taking Ploppy to the station as it is a bit wet and windy! I of course have a day off for some reason! BHB says he has to leave early - said something about seeing a rat - dilemma, does he think there are rats in the Bistro? Should I tell the CM or should I get the exterminators in without letting her know?? OH! it's ok he has explained the rat is on some TV programme - is this possible? Is he being delusional again?? I will try to find out more and let you know........

To - The Cool-It Company
From - Any Knight Won't Do Graphics Department

I wish to place an order for one industrial size cooling system.

Timescale - URGENT.

REALLY URGENT

What's this about rats in the bistro!!! Oh sorry BHB I mis-understood the DCM. (He says he's going to see a talking rat today - sometimes I worry about that boy!)

Pauline2 lots of Ohmmmmms coming for you! Ohmmmm - Ohmmmm - hope your Sloppy crisis is over soon.

Kathleen - ohmms for you too with that vertigo.

And again guys thanks for the links - Carys has just reminded me I've got Dancing on Ice recorded, and havn't even watched it yet!!!

All those Loppies of to see the International Superstar that is Roland Rat - have a fantastic time - and enjoy seeing that talent show winner - I hear he's quite good...

Now here I am, ready to say Good Morning to all Loppies, and I hear we have RATS????!!!!???? In the BeachCafe/Bistro???!!!! Phew BHB, you nearly gave me a heart attack. We would be closed down. But not sure the television people would be terribly happy for you to be going around tellng people they have rats in their studios either!!

Rather put me off my breakfast all this talk of rodents, but when all is said and done it is Shrove Tuesday so our special this morning is pancakes. Traditional with squeezed lemon and sugar, or syrup. But for those who would prefer we also have maple syrup and honey, and I can highly recommend those with crispy grilled smoked bacon and a little syrup. Yummy - thats the one for me. And a large Earl Grey to take away please. Off to meet lots of lovely Loppies soon.

Pauline OOOOHHHHHMMMMSSSS a plenty coming your way. Sadly the real world has already overtaken Auds - no choice but to stay at work today. OOOOOHHHHMMMMMSSSS coming your way too. I know how I am going to be feeling if the trains let me down. OOOOHHHHMMMSSSSS and crossed fingers for us all here. (Does make typing a tad difficult though)

And to everyone who has been in touch, yes I promise I will do a full review. And if by any wonderful chance any of us get close enough to Lee to speak to him can someone PLEASE ask him who he was sitting next to at the SBS awards.

Oh and should have said - manners Shirley - thanks for all the links folks, and loving the red fan on the badge - thanks Carys

Pauline - Ohmmmmmmmmmmms for you and your Sloppy, hope all will be well.

Carys - love your badge design. Very apt!

Ali B - you're absolutely right! I could picture her quite clearly, but couldn't recall anything I'd seen her in, which was frustrating as I'm usually pretty good at identifying people. Well done you!

Kathleen - along the lines of smiling when Lee is mentioned: the other day Ploppy was looking at dishwashers on pc with itunes on shuffle mode (we have all our CDs loaded on pc). We were having a perfectly normal conversation til suddenly the opening bars of GMYAS came on and from then on it was a case of Lee: "GMYAS", Ploppy: "blah blah blah blah" (a bit like the teacher on Charlie Brown)! Poor guy, if he only knew - but then I suspect he knows I only half listen a lot of the time!

Lindsey - what luck! Nice to see that "reorganisation" isn't always a bad thing!

To all over-heated loppies I send cooling ohmmmms and also to those going to AT who will have to endure seeing Lee before getting to the treat that is Roland Rat!

Have a fabulous day one and all.

Almost forgot - pancakes with maple syrup for me please. MMMmmmmmmmmmmmm!

OK Ploppy safely at station - hair washed ready to meet the talking Rat (well you have to try don't you)! Sorry to hear about your problems Pauline2 so lots of ooohhhmmmms and fingers crossed - was going to send to Lady J, with her poorly paw, but after reading last night's episode feel she can probably manage quite well without them - perhaps a large waft of fresh air would be better??? Carys - badge is inspired!!
OK have to type minutes from yesterday's meeting before I get ready to roll!

To: The Graphics Department.
Order received. Elf workers are on their way up the M1 in elf van to install. ETA lunchtime. Installation time of 1 hour expected. Payment has been taken from your account in multi coloured sheep fleece.
Colour sent; Purple with red heart motif.

Morning all, blustery day. I've brought Tams with me as I hear we have a rodent problem at the bistro. Off you go Tams have a check around. If there are any she will find them.
Hello, BHB, don't worry she is used to working in kitchens. I know environmental health inspectors don't like to see animals in kitchens, she'll be quick. Just a diet coke for me, tummy is doing something odd. Oh, no rats here it's this afternoon you're going to see one. Going to a zoo or something?
Come on Tams you better come with me off home. I have to dash too.

Pauline2-hope Sloppy recovers soon.
Kathleen-sounds like they think there is a little bit of something in your inner ear (the spiral bit) and they are trying to roll it out. If it is that and they have managed to roll it out, the effect will be amazing.
Auds-w**k oh dear, must be important.
Carys-still on the night visits to check good, love the fan design on the badge.

Oh Auds - you'll be missed!! Lots of more ooohhhmmmms!

Forgot to say, Lindsey, loving your new work collegues.

Good morning, it's a lovely day - maybe not weatherwise but you know what I mean. Pauline2, lots of ohhhmms coming your way.

Thanks Carys.

Auds, sorry you can't make it. I know how gutted I'd feel.

Just time for a quick hello then it's back to the 1500's for me. Don't worry, I'll make sure there's a gap in the day to do a little telly-watching. You will all wave at us at home, won't you? Eva, my spies are going to check that you're wearing green somewhere on your person -- for your sake I hope you're wearing it in an obvious place! I did have a giggle last night at the thought of you with a sprig of shamrock stuck in your helmet...

Pancakes for me, but only a little. Still having some of that post-migraine tummy nausea. Hot tea is just the thing (sorry, Carol). 'Mardi Gras' always reminds me of a lovely, not well known Paul Simon song (with Phoebe Cates singing backing vocals). I'm sure you can YouTube it.

Carys, love love love the badge, such a fabulous design! But may I be a pedantic author for a moment? The fan should have the words, 'Lee's Fan' on them. Perhaps it's in small print...

Lady Jane, I'm hoping the paw isn't pawly -- I mean poorly, today. Lots of ohhms for a quick recovery and for your sloppy, too, Pauline2, and all the other ailing in our midst.

Now verily forsooth I must away,
Yon noble Bard doth call I cannot stay.

Good Morning Everyone
I hope you have a great time with the GO and AT and that the rat doesn't cause too much trouble!
I didn't find out about this until I came back from my hols and it was then too late to book any time off.!

Love the badge Carys.

Take care and I look forward to hearing all about your Day later.

Anne x

Morning Everyone!!

Well I have had a disasterous start to the day as I have had a small accident!! I was just closing my front door when half the metal door handle came off in my hand and cut my finger!! I had to wait until it had stopped bleeding before I could drive to work!! I have a plaster on it now but it makes it rathr hard to type!!

Please give my love to Roland, looking forward to seeing him on the TV tonight!!

Shirley - thanks for coming on the forum thread about Loppy behaviour, I did try and explain but some of them on there are right miserable so and sos!! I thought the people in the croud were shouting 'April Face'. I have no idea why!

Sorry Ali, but I dont think its Gemma Jones as I know her face really well and would have recognised her!! I think she is from the dance world!!

Morning All,
Enjoy the AT show all who are going, will be thinking of you all at 3pm, can't wait to hear all the details.
I'm a little bit green myself and no Geri, it's not shamrock, not yet anyway!
This being the Annual Pancake Worship Day, my scallop always wants me to create the entire evening meal based on pancakes, savoury and then sweet, so I'm off to search the web for new and inspired ideas (maybe then I should do some work!)

Quick Good Morning, thankyou for the ohhhmmms, hopefully Sloppy will be ok for today and I can see how she is later. Sad note, friend has got the lurgy, so will be making journey alone, but really feel RR will be worth the effort.
Carys the badge is inspired, looks better than a bucket would have.
Jane an ohhhmm back for you hope your paw is better.
Places to go, people to see, so will catch up later!

Oh Auds, what a b...er, work does interfere with so many things, I do sympathise.

Auds, how sad!!

Carys, love the badge, when ca I have one?

Having a lovely time this morning, dishwasher leaking, place still a tip, the more I try to sort it out, the worse it seems to get. Still, as Ploppy would say, get off that
bl---y computer, perhaps I should!

'See' you later.

Oh dear, lots of ohms needed today. Hope things improve, Auds, Pauline, & everyone else.
Maybe this will make you smile -- read what JB has to say out the GO: http://www.showbizspy.com/2008/02/05/john-barrowman-was-once-pursued-by-valentino/

Thanks for the Ohmmmms everyone - I'm sure they'll help poorly paw get better double-quick.

Auds, such a shame you won't be able to make it today! Poor lass!

Oh 'eck Sue, sounds like your're move isn't going that smoothly - ohmms for you too!

Thanks for the link Geri - JB is a man of taste!

Morning (only just!) I have been up for ages but only just got here. I feel surprisingly wide awake considering how late I went to bed.
Carys, are the badges available for purchase?
Ohhmmms to all who need them, especially Auds who must be sooo disappointed.
AliB I was so sure that it was Gemma Jones, but I'm not trawling the web anymore so lets hope someone finds out who the mystery woman is and posts here for us!
Off to make pancakes as I seem to be feeding the 5000 tonight. Safe journeys AT going loppies

Happy Loppy here today... my ticket for Oct 18th arrived in the post this morning, much nicer than all those nasty bills! Will have to find somewhere safe to keep it.

Ali - sorry but its definitely not Gemma Jones! I just had another look to check and Gemma Jones is much prettier!

Oh well, we may have to accept that we will never know! I bet one day we will be watching the TV and suddenly point at the screen and go 'its that bl***y woman!!'

OK, I don't expect anyone to post in the next hour but afterwards please can you let us know what AT was like!! Thanks!!

Hi Ali B - looks like its just us here, isn't it quiet and lonely, was begining to think something was wrong with my connection when I couldn't see any new posts. Bet they're all having a lovelee time!

Hi Karen2!! Yes, its just us!! Its like the Marie Celeste again!! Just been on the forum and apparently Lee is going to be on AT any minute now!! Its quite tortuous being at work and not being able to see it!!

Hi Ali and Karen,

Watching the show and Lee has just sung 'Make it with You' thud! At said he will talk to Lee later.... The Loppies sound in good form too!

I'm still here being Cinders again. I've been checking out some of the photos posted on LMAS. There is a recent set with hat where the eye lash action is to die for. It looks like he has falses on. Swoon.

Do some people post on the Forum there just to upset others? They can be so serious. I trust we will still be wearing ears at the Tearfest etc?

I have a terrible feeling I'm going to get home and find my video hasn't worked. Just to think they will be there with the GO now. Boohoo.

Tell me about it! I
have some figures I'm supposed to be working on and I just can't concentrate at all.
I keep imagining AT's face when he brings Lee on, I doubt any of his previous guests will have got the reaction a bunch of loppies can give, (sorry - it's a giggle of loppies isn't it!)

Have just been watching AT - and ditto Suex -thud!

Alison, if your recorder doesn't work give me a shout. I've got it recording

Ohboyohboyohboy!! How gorgeous was that! Is it me or is his voice even richer now than it was a year ago? And how much more relaxed is he? Couldn't help but giggle at the thoughts of Eva's reaction to him singing 'her' song!

HE SANG!! Oh I wasn't expecting that! I can't wait to get home and watch it! Can't wait for the reports later!!

Oh dear oh dear they are all going to be in 7th heaven. I hope I can go home and watch it. Thanks for the offer of your recording Jane E but I sooo want to get home and watch it straight away. Fingers crossed I haven't messed up. Has the Rat been on yet?

Oh yes, he sang - so beautifully (sigh). The AT interviewed him, and the audience cheering away. Anyone would think he'd got a load of fans there!

Let me know if you need the back up plan Alison.

Lucky me has a straight to DVD recorder so if anyone missed it or their recording failed you know what to do. I'm just going to watch it again and again....

Alison - I know what you mean - I want to go home too! I have also just found out that I am in for a horrendously busy time at work for the rest of the week - I just want to get out of here! I think Roland 'Hey Rat Fans!' Rat is on the second show they are recording now for broadcast tomorrow. So at least we escape that (but thats not much consolation!)

Thank God for people like you JaneE and Carys! I dutifully set video and just sat down to watch AT. Lee sang (gorgeous) and I fast forwarded to the interview, so far so good, then just as the loppies groaned at the idea of Lee wearing the phantom mask to cover his beautiful face the d**n tape ended *&%$£"*&^@#!
I am SO annoyed with myself

Hi Ali - if you want it on video drop me an e-mail. You might need to go through stageloppies. Afraid I can't do DVDs - I'm not as well equiped as Carys!

Oh my word! How good was that performance of MIWY? What must it have been like being there? (We'll find out I'm sure.) How will Roland Rat beat that?

For those of us left out loppies who haven't seen it yet, there's a huge vat on standby - I'm that large puddle at the bottom of it (and I haven't got up to the interview yet!).

Need to make pancakes for dollops - savoury ones with cheese sauce and ham, sweet ones with ice cream and maple syrup.

Fiona, I only saw the chat and missed MIWY through picking up from school. Do I take it a bucket's not big enough??? Can't get onto the TV at present to watch the recording as Dollop is busy doing karaoke High School Musical, our birthday present to her! So why did I suggest she played with it now???

Wow! Just watched Lee on AT! He was absolutely stunning in every way. He looked really beautiful – hair the perfect length and doesn’t he look well now in comparison with before he was ill as he really did look tired then at times.

MIWY is a perfect song to sing live as well, very intimate!!! And lovely with just the guitar. I thought he seemed very slightly nervous to begin with but then totally relaxed and didn’t it show off his beautifully warm voice. OOH! He was obviously really thrilled with everyone being there and the reception he got and I thought the girls made a perfect audience, and all the other guests and Alan seemed to appreciate the reception they all received. Lee fans are polite and encouraging to everyone (even if it was slightly boring!!) but of course the huge reception was for Lee!! I think I was grinning for the whole programme in anticipation as they really built him up.

I must say that Alan is actually a really good interviewer as he gives them time to answer as I thought as well as with Lee he was very good with Timothy West who seems to have got a bit doddery and he very gently helped him out a few times.

Loved the design of the badge Carys. Inspired!

Think I will have to go and watch again! Hope my recorder has worked.

I MISSED HIM! I MISSED HIM! I MISSED ROLAND RAT!! Er, sorry no I mean I missed HIM - THE GO!

My poor old dad was rushed into hospital late last night so I was up all last night and out most of today and, mind on other things obviously, didn't set the recorder. Still, priorites right my dad's okay and back home so I'll forgive him and I expect some kind person will put AT on YouTube! (Please, some kind person,whoever you are!!)

He sang MIWY - OMG!!!!!!!!!!!

Karen - don't panic, woman! (Oh and you're poor Dad - lots of Ohmmms!!)

Helen W - I agree, just a tiny bit of nerves right at the begining and then - heaven!

Jackie, the bucket deffinately isn't big enough!!!

OMG Jane E, you're right. Just managed to wrest use of the tv from Dollop and watched MIWY. The bucket's just not big enough. That's one of my favourite tracks anyway and he sang so beautifully.

But nearly had a disaster. Elder Scollop was cooking another pancake and only realised after MIWY that he had left the pan on the heat and it was busy burning away!! Fortunately got there in the nick of time, before we had a fire... Just what the GO does to us poor Loppies, he has no idea!

Hello, hello!! Just back and doing a quick post before eating and rehearsal!! The GO was just gorgeous - oh don't want to rub it in but when he sang it was to die for! Oh it was total heaven! Had a fantastic time - and the second programme is for Friday and final guests Greg and Christina so guess what? They played the video clip of them dancing to Any Dream Will Do!! OK off to feed Ploppy and then rehearsal - doubtless by the time I am back you will have the whole story from the others!! Lovely to meet Vali too, and a lovely young lady called Katie!

Just back from a rewatch – fast forwarding through the other bits – heaven!!

Karen, what a difficult time you have had but glad to hear that your Dad is back home, and glad to hear that you didn’t have to call out the fire brigade, Jackie, but GO is rather distracting isn’t he?!

On the rewatch I have to say that everything was perfect even the purple lighting behind GO while singing – so his colour! And I loved the way he sat forward while being interviewed, he is just so full of Energy with a capital E. Was his jacket the Maria jacket? Yum! You have to look gorgeous to be able to wear that!

He so loved the enthusiastic support that it does worry me that his web site doesn’t keep us informed of what is going on as it was the AT programme that contacted Donna wasn’t it? As well as keeping fans informed the support is what he needs and values so how can fans do that if not notified?

I am so looking forward to hearing all the reports of the day. I wonder if they were able to speak to him?

I think I just wrote the last word in my essay. Going to leave it a few hours, give it a re-read and mail the rotten thing -- I'm so sick of it! Dollop got a new job today so is taking care of dinner -- woohoo!

Karen, so sorry to hear about your dad. I do hope he's OK. Lots of ohhmms headed to him.

Got a text from Eva -- my mobile is now sticky from the drool!

OK, going to go have dinner & if I can stand looking at the computer again, may try to bash out another chapter.

PS: Have to say it again -- doesn't he just get better every time you see him!

Karen - don't panic, woman! (Oh and you're poor Dad - lots of Ohmmms!!)

Helen W - I agree, just a tiny bit of nerves right at the begining and then - heaven!

Jackie, the bucket deffinately isn't big enough!!!

Don't know what happened there!

Graphics Dept seems to have gone insane!

Thanks for the good wishes guys!

Jane - seems like the Graphics Dept is still all of a dither from illustrating last nights chapter!!

OMG! MEGATHUD. Just seen him on AT over on LMAS (sorry forgotten how to do links but you know where to find Him).

To Cool It Company

Thank you for your prompt installation - A/C unit now set to blizzard.

Stand by for orders from returnees from London!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIqbluvRVuA

AT

I just picked myself up from the ground.I have been watching the AT show on LMAS.
The GO singing and chatting!!! What a nice thing to come home too.

Karen, glad to hear that you father is all right.
Diana still can't decide what photo to go for. It probably will take me all weekend to decide.

Chapter Fifteen

He awoke at the campsite and for a moment thought the entire experience was a dream. But the sunburn on his nose and shoulders and the absence of Foot-Tapper told him his time in the desert had really happened. All the other knights were sitting up looking disoriented. Boyz had a torn shirt and a black eye, Charming was shaking uncontrollably, and Weepsalot was sobbing loudly on his nana’s shoulder.
“Up you get, boys,” Sir William the Gentle said. “We’ve got a surprise for you.”
“I think I know what he can do with his surprises,” Sir Dental-floss said. He’d lost a front tooth and looked very self-conscious about it.
“What happened to you, Den?” Lee asked gently.
“Don’t ask – I can’t talk about it!” Dental-floss replied. “I just barely made it out of there alive.”
“What about you, Boyz?”
Sir Boyz shivered then straightened his shoulders and told his tale. “I was coming up the Strand and there was a crowd of women. They were screaming my name. At first I thought they were just well-wishers, but then they turned into a mob. They surrounded me and I couldn’t breathe. They were all demanding things of me, but I couldn’t understand what they wanted. Like Den, I just made it out with my life. They even tore my shirt!”
“I’m sorry,” Lee said.
“It was my best shirt!” Boyz wailed. “I liked how soft it was, and the lavender colour. Now it’s ruined.”
Despite himself, Sir Lee smiled. He put his hand on Boyz’ shoulder and said, “Maybe one of the loppies will fix it for you.”
Boyz brightened. “Yeah, maybe.”
“What about you, Charming?” Lee asked.
The young knight shook his head. “I was being asked questions and didn’t know the answers. I was supposed to give a speech or something, and I kept forgetting the words. Don’t laugh – it was really frightening.”
“What about you, Lee?” Boyz asked.
Briefly, Lee related what had happened to him in the desert and the meeting of Lady Jane in the temple.
“Wait a minute,” Dental-floss said. “We’re being hunted through the streets, forced to give speeches without any preparation, and—and so on, and you get a massage from a beautiful loppy! It isn’t fair!”
Lee flushed. “It doesn’t sound fair, I agree. But it isn’t like I asked for it.”
“I’m sure you deserved it,” Charming said, generously. “After all, you do have a wonderful physique. No wonder she wanted to give you a massage.”
“Well, my philosophy has always been – when you’re alone, work on your body for life.”
“Gosh,” said Boyz. “You’re so wise.”
“It’s very quiet back there,” Den said, nodding at Weepsalot and his nana. For once they weren’t speaking. Weepsalot squeeked along on his sandals and nana clattered with the helmet still in place on her rear. Whatever had happened had resulted in some foliage being attached to the horns of the helmet and they trailed along behind the old woman, occasionally tripping her up. Now and then she was heard to mutter something about dratted Vikings.
“We’re going back to the castle,” Lee said, recognising the road.
“That’s right,” Sir Jack-wow (the third) said. “It’s just around this next bend. The Wise Wizard Webber and Gray’mm will be there.”
“For another challenge?” Boyz asked.
“For a masked ball. Ah, I see our welcome has been prepared.”
On the steps of the castle stood the pink-haired loppy Sir Lee had met before. She wore a pink gown and fanned herself briskly with a small rose-coloured fan (with the words ‘Lee’s fan’ on the side). She came to meet them.
“Hello, Strawberry,” Lee said, kissing her cheek. “It’s lovely to see you again.”
“The pleasure is entirely mine,” she said, blushing.
“What’s that you’re humming?”
“Oh, a little song called, ‘Make it With You’. I seem to have it in my head. Well now, we’ve got seven knights left. It’s enough to leave you weak! Time for you to change into your costumes, then come to the banqueting hall for the masque. This will be fun!”

OOh looks like I might be next in. First and foremost Karen Ohhhmmms for your Dadand I hope he is ok.
Well what a great day, got to TV centre about 12.30ish and saw Diana waving madly so joined her, there was a queue but it just got longer and then more of us turned up, until the giggle was complete!My friend being unable to go meant we were able to do Katie a favour and give her a priority ticket, so some good from bad. A lovely guy then came out and wristbanded us so we were able to go to anearby Starbucks for coffee, (unfortunateley no bar nearby!) Then back to wait for security etc. We were allowed into the studio at about 2.45 and allwere on the second row of the gantry. Then two of our number were suddenly removed... no right down to the second row on the studio floor, weren't you Strawberry and Christmas!!
The warmup guy (very funny) explained about applause etc and asked to keep quite if we saw Lee off stage as it would interfere with the show. Then off we go loads of cheering for AT and well you see that bit, but we could then see HIM and weren't we good not, a peep. As I'm sure you could tell every time his name was mentioned huge cheers. Well then IWTMIWY!!!! Buckets just don't come big enough, he was fantastic fantastic fantastic. So great to see him sing something other than Joseph. Then the interview as you saw was good, he is so much more confident these days and really was given time to answer, as you saw. But the best thing is how genuinely pleased he seemed to see us all. When the show was over he came forward and waved to us all and smiled and.. thud. He really did look fit and happy and well.
Can recommend these shows to go and watch as we had great fun. The staff were all lovely and very well organised lets not mention the contrast with WJMM!! The second show is on Friday and Ruthie Henshall was on as well and sang a song from a new musical she is in. She has a beautiful voice, and of course the highlight....the RAT, what can I say!
Sorry if this rambles a bit, oh and Eva sends her love and should be back with us tomorrow afternoon/evening. I'm sure others will do this better, but wanted to let you know the rough outline!
Floats off on a pink cloud.......

OK I'm home, all tribe fed. Dog not walked yet. I'll do it after a quick review.
I met up with Claire (from Forum) on the tube. I'm not sure she recognised me as I was in disguise, just in case there were audience shots taken. I decided not to wear the burka, just had my hair down, has similar effect. We got there about 12, Diana just in front. Maybe 20 people then Roro (I think) first in the queue with bottles of 'fizzy pop'.
Had some lovely chat with people I'd never met before. Then Shirley, Carol, Shirley2, Carolyn and others came. Then Eva and her friend Shirley (lovely green coat for Geri). The time went quickly, wrist bands given out, we went to coffee shop, then back. Another wait, more chatting. Then inside and more waiting, had a chat with a woman who had seen Cliffy in his pink suit and pointy shoe phase, when I was about 6. Then the studio and the warm up man, who told us not to make a sound when we saw GO as we had to wait until he was introduced. GO came in to the left and a ripple went around and everyone was looking at him. No idea what AT was doing at the time. Then the song, well, my favourite, I nearly melted off my chair. I must see it again. (I posted link without watching it.) Then other stuff. Interview, unfortunately this was to the right of the stage and behind the head of the woman in front, very big hair. I did manage to bend around to see most of it. He looked so .......... please insert, can not think of words to describe. As for jacket, dark, wasn't really looking at clothing. He was just lovely.

Goody gumdrops another fantastic chapter, thanks Geri perfect end to a perfect day!

Wow Pauline 2 and Jo4!! How fantastic! But, come on girls, more about the rat please!! (Sorry joking!!)

Aw Geri lovely chapter, thanks me dear - and Strawberry got a kiss - ahhh!

Geri - superb as ever. Looking forward to the masked ball. Wouldn't usually want Sir Lee's face masked but can imagine he would look sexy and mysterious!!! And those eyes!!

Great reviews Pauline2 & Jo4 - soundds like it was amazing!

OMG What a day! Lovely to meet up with old friends and new, specially Vali and Katie who we picked up on the way from Paddington to White City!
We got to WC about 12.30, queue not too long, we(Shirley and her group, Shirley 2, Carol, Vali, Diana and Dutch friend Anne Marie(?) and self) did a bit of queue barging and joined Pauline, Jo, Claire and friend! Later Eva with Shirley no. 3 arrived.
A very nice man gave us red, priority wrist bands and then we went off for a coffee.
We were let through the gates at about 2pm and after another wait inside we were allowed in numerical order into the studio at 2.45.
Just before the show started Shirley and Carol were escorted down to the VIP section at the front by another very very nice young man who they'd been having a bit of a flirt with while in the queue!

There were lots of interesting guests on the programme whom I'm sure you will have seen by now but at last our boy appeared, he was beautifully arranged on a stool with a guitarist accompanying him. His voice was just glorious, it was heaven to hear him sing MIWY on his own with just the guitar, you will have heard him by now I expect, his voice was like caramel, rich and beautiful, really stunning.

Later on he talked to AT who turned out to be a good interviewer and an all round good egg.
We gave Lee lots of support and he looked as if he was enjoying himself, grinning at us happily.

Once the main event was over we had a break of 20 min.s or so during which we were given a drink, orange juice, nothing for the Lushloppies, and then we watched what will be Friday's show with Carol Smilie, Ruth Henshall singing a song from the new musical Margueritte, Greg Rusedski and others.

It was a great day, somehow I lost everyone on the way out and was unable to say 'Goodbye'
So thanks to everyone for making it all such fun, and particularly to Shirley for including me in her group.

Lovely review Maeve - though I can't possibly believe that Shirley or Carol would flirt!

Well - perhaps a little!

I'd love to stay up and wait for the rest, but I'm going to have an early night.

Good night all!

Another safely home Loppy. Tired but happy Loppy. Had a lovely day. Met up with Vali on the train - waves - hi Vali and lovely to meet you at last. As usual not a thing to say to each other - as if. Then met up with Carol and Maeve at Paddington and then Shirley and finally Carolyn. We were joined by Katie on the tube who heard our excited chatter about Lee so she joined us for the rest of the journey.

As the others have said we all met up and had a lovely time gossiping and waiting around. The guy who did all the armbands was a real sweetie and very helpful. You might be interested to know Geri, and he said they had real trouble with the Cliff fans who were uncontrolable. Had a coffee and nibble and when we came back there was a much longer queue so we ambled up to the front and asked the chap if we had to go back to the end - certainly not you were here before this xxxxxx lot. Fair enough. Anyway once we were though security we were lined up in the numbers that were on our wristbands. And then we had to wait again. Oh and ladies as we went from security to that queue we walked past - wait for it - THE TARDIS. Yes we really did.

Anyway there we are stood waiting and chatting and I started chatting to this lad who was making sure everything was OK. Ever so nice he was, we ended up talking about JB and Torchwood, and how he found it too raunchy to sit and watch with his mum. He told me he had seen Lee rehersing so we knew he was singing and we knew he would have a single accoustic guitar player for accompliment.

So when we went into the studio I was the first person in the second row of the ramped area, right behind Roro, who had been queueing since 9.30 - now that really is dedication. I had not even left home by then. Carol was next to me and we are all gossiping and getting excited, when this young man comes rushing up the steps looking for 'the pink haired lady' Right in front of the stage they had three rows of those stacking chairs, where people who could not climb the steps had been seated, and they had 2 spare seats right at the aisle of the second row. I was quite embarrassed cause Ro had been there so much earlier than us, so I said she should have first refusal, but she did not want to go, so Carol and I needed no further encouragement. He explained to us where Lee would be sitting to sing, and it really was very close - so were we lucky or what????

It was interesting the way they altered the set all the time. Even to the extent of chaging the rugs each time. We were told not to applaud until Lee was introduced so we didnt. But if you cant hear the shared sharp intake of breath when he walked on stage they must have turned the mikes off. And there we all were trying to be polite to AT and whoever it was he was talking to, but of course heads just insisted on turning left to where Lee was sitting like a load of weathervanes in the wind.

Then Lee sang. And we melted. And melted. And melted. OMG. And because the big close up cameras were back and for in the aisle beside me the GO was looking towards where we were sitting lots of the time. His voice was lovely. That voice is made to sing love songs. MELT. Anyway he finished we cheered and cheered. And he seemed thrilled to bits to have such a good reception. They off he went. Saw him thanking his guitarist as they went their separate ways. We guessed that he was going to be interviewed because he was directed to the back of the set - I guess he must have had to wait there about 15 minutes not sure - and also not sure what happened in between Brain not functioning. And then Lee was introduced again. And out he walked - huge cheers again and big smiles in return. I actually could not hear everything Lee was saying to Alan. He was chatting in a natural speaking voice, and I am a bit Mutt and Jeff could not hear it all. But I am sure you will have seen it by now, and as soon as I have finished this that is exactly what I am going to do. But I did clearly hear that he is cowriting songs for his next album. Now that really will be interesting. To see what sort of music Lee writes. But after the interview AT wound up the show and we all applauded until the credits had finished rolling. Lee and AT came out onto the centre of the stage and Alan thanked Lee and we all hollered and clapped some more, big smiled and waves and then he was gone.

The interval between the shows was fun with the warm up guy getting people to do extremely stupid things. To much merriment. At some point I know we were all joking with AT about DoI and Strictly and he asked would we all vote for him and we shouted yes, and then the warm up guy asked would we still vote for AT if he was neck and neck with Lee Mead - and we all shouted back NO. All very good natured indeed. I think they all enjoyed having an enthusiastic audience in, but who were well behaved.

And then out - the usual chaos of not managing to see everyone to say goodbye. At one stage several of us were at one side of a very busy road shouting across to Eva to say goodbye - she and her friend Shirley were going to taxi and some of us by tube - so off we all went in our different directions.

Another lovely Loppy and Lee filled day. Thanks all, enjoyed your company lots, and enjoyed seeing Lee as Lee majorly.

Geri, thanks for the tale. I am having a rough week so far. Bad news from my specialist yesterday, not serious (at the moment) but very annoying. I am not allowed alcohol or caffine anyway but now chocolate has been added to the list as well as a 'low fat diet with no fried food', a cruel thing to say the day before pancake day.
Today was just one of those days at work. Everyone seemed to go out of their way to do something stupid.
Ah well, as long as I didn't mess up, I have something to watch on the dvd player tonight. I don't have to hide being a loppy at home as the only other person in the flat is my mother. I have the privilige of being a dollop as will as a loppy. This gives me a good excuse to splash out on seat in row c of the stalls for a second visit to Joseph, mother is 80 and nearly blind after 2 eye operations and now cataracts in both eyes.

Oh GERI - STAWBERRY GOT A KISS!!!! Wowzzer
Wowzzer Wowzzer. Loving it Geri. And I get to have a pink fan - Oh thank you Geri. MMWWAAHH.

JaneE I am going to have to have words with you. Carol and I do not flirt. Not much anyway. Well maybe just a little. I concede that maybe I flirted with the conductor, but I dont think I was today.

Now I am so tired, that I am going to bed early. Good night all. Sleep tight and have Sweet Meads.

Glad you all enjoyed the TV recording ladies. Pen, if that DVD player fails you, the entire lovely experience is already on YouTube (thanks, Kaz). Hope tonight's chapter cheered you up a little.

Shirley -- unruly Cliff fans? Surely not!

Dollop & I watched Lee sing All I Ask Of You (again) last night and she said, You know, I believe Lee when he says that, and you know he'd keep you safe. Aw...

Thanks for the lovely reviews everyone! I have just watched the show and it was fantastic! Lee looked absolutely gorgeous and chuffed with the fantastic reception he got! There were so many beautiful smiles and my fave bit was when they were talking about phantom and he covered up his face and the audience started to protest and this made him really laugh!! GORGEOUS GORGEOUS GORGEOUS!!

Interview
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QbPTH-9blU

Thanks for the reviews folks, doesn't make up for not being there, but it helps a lot.

My sky+ failed me, something to do with the general chaos in this new house, I think the CO must be lurking!! I will email you Carys.

Need an early night, start back at another of my jobs tomorrow, I almost preferred sitting with my feet up, but now they are completely better.

Nite nite all.

Geri, where are my manners? thank you for yet another great chapter.

Just arrived home from Dance class.
I would just like to say thank you to you all for making me feel so welcome, (I really was quite nervous about going )it was lovely to meet old and new friends.

I am not going to a review very tired now, but a funny thing happened when the show had finished, the warm up guy Andy, asked our crowd if we had enjoyed the show, and I said seeing Greg Rudeski was a bonus(I am a big tennis fan)
and he handed me a bottle of white wine, a nice memory of my day. Carol and I did try to find some straws so we could drink it on the Underground on the way home

Right, dog walked, photos emailed to Maggie/Martin, washing up done, Kaz's vids watched and downloaded now just recycling to do.
Geri-Lovely chapter again.
I would like to add that I tried to stand up for Cliff fans when I heard the very very nice young man say they pushed and shoved. I said not all some, like Eva and me were very well behaved.
I was asked questions today I had to give a lot of thought to. Who do I love best? I answered by saying if you are a mum you can love your children and partner at the same time, in different ways. That seemed to be accepted as a satisfactory answer. The follow up was, if there was a concert on the same day at the same time which one would you go to. This was more difficult, I reasoned, I've been to see one lots of times. The other I've never seen in concert (I know I have seen him several times, but not in concert) so it would be the young wippersnapper I'd go to see in concert.
When the pics go up on Martin's pages can someone put a name to the lady in the group photo next to Katie (who was lovely and going to see the show tonight).
Sue good wishes to you for tomorrow and Pen, hope the new regime works for you.
Now the recycling calls, so Nightlee night all.

Fantastic reviews - thanks all.

Have only managed to watch the beginning of the interview but, once again, Lee showed how well-mannered and down-to-earth he is by firstly saying hello to you lot of lucky loppies and then thanking Alan for having him on his show! You can't help but melt! Particularly when so many so-called "celebrities" these days think the world owes them something just because they've had some tv exposure. It's so refreshing to see someone with real talent and charisma and so modest with it. (Sorry, I'm beginning to sound all motherly!!)

Anyway, it sounds like you all had a lot of fun today - I think I spied you Shirley and Carol at the front.

Geri - you star! I shall read the latest chapter in the morning. The rest of it has kept me entertained whilst at swimming lessons.

More Ohmmmmmmms for all those in need. Night!

Hi everyone glad to see the AT Loppies made it home safely! Just going to watch the replay......well I want to relive the moment! Karen sorry to hear about your Dad, but hopefully now he is home thinks should be ok?? Geri - I just want to know what happened with Sir Weepsalot that Nana is trailing foliage!! Oh well been a long day, so Sweet Meads all - wonder what I'll be dreaming of (big sigh).

Wow, Jo4, what a tough question. Like you, I've seen His Cliffiness several times in concert; I've only seen Lee twice, both times in Joseph so never as 'himself'. I suppose if I had to pick which one I'd go to it would depend on if there was something really special about it -- Cliff's farewell tour, well, how could I miss that? But otherwise, the new King of my Heart would reign. Am I a traitor to the cause?

have just finished playing catchup from late last nights posts. Before I wallow is self pity, Geri - thanks so much for such a marvelous tale - got to read two chapters for the price of one. Carys, lovin those badges. Jo4 - thanks for the links to today's show.
And thanks one and all for the reviews of the show.
Now, back to wallowing. Tortuous.. Tortuous I say!!! I had to take my watch off today - I could hardly bear to go through the "oh, it's such and such a time, they'll be doing this" and "now it's show time and I wonder where they'll be sitting" I can't even think of what I missed now without coming over all nauseous. HE SANG MY SONG!!!!! (OK and a couple of other Loppy's song - but it's me me me me right now) I SHOULD HAVE BEEN THERE!!! Aaaaarghhhhhhhhh
and he looked TO DIE FOR - perfect in every minuscule way!!! THOSE CURLS... Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaargh. SOB SOB SOB SOB..
***snap****
did you hear that?
That's the sound of my broken heart.

Just watched the show through, if you look at the first chat about the news etc. you see the back of audience heads. Lady with glasses on top of her head.. hello Carol! lady to her left Shirley! Fame at last!
Obviously I saw the GO closer, sigh..... sorry concentrate, but I think the guitar tends to drown his voice a bit more than it did live. These sound people!! Still absolute thuderooni stuff though. Isn't he just so lovely? Floats away on pink fluffy cloud.......
Night night, sigh.

Evening ladies. What a day!!! Marianne & I got to White City about 11.15 so went for a coffee (and to use the loo!) before joining the queue. We were first of our lot but Jo4 & Claire arrived soon after. The waiting time went quite quickly as our group grew. It was lovely to meet you, Vali.

I don't think I can add much to what's already been said - my brain is still mush! Except that as there were two empty seats between me and the end of the row (where Shirley & Carol first sat), I had an excellent view of Lee as he waited to come on. Mar spotted him first - it was very difficult not to stare and I think he realised some of us had clocked him. Lee hung around at the side for a couple of mins, vanished for a while and then reappeared I guess five mins before he went on. I don't remember much about the show at this point! However, Lee was obviously watching and listening to the show and joined in the applause (for Timothy West I think). And then he went on ......

After the first show finished, Lee spoke to a couple of people at the side, hugged (kissed?) a girl (lucky thing) and then a young girl came up to him with (I assumed) her father and he spoke to her briefly, and then he left.

When we got home I checked the video had recorded (phew!) but haven't had time to watch so I've still got that treat in store.

Back to work tomorrow (and there's a pile of it ugh) but in the evening we're going to a certain rather popular venue in the Strand. I don't think I'm going to get much sleep tonight!

Geri, thanks for the wonderful new chapter.

Oh the one annoying thing that happened - my PC was supposed to be returned before 10.00 am but no sight of it by time we had to leave. When we got home found a note - they tried to deliver it - at 1.30 !! Grrrr

Sleep well.

Ah averysorryforherselfloppy hope you feel better soon. I've heard that chocolate can mend a broken heart. Go and listen to a cd or watch some videos, might help.
Really must go

To: The Graphics department.
Thank you for the warning of increased orders for our products. Which are available in 29 colours. We have instituted a night shift to prepare for the demand.
Yours
Night shift foreman.

What a day indeed, it was a dream of a day. Met up with Shirley on the train (Hi to you too) and talked the loppie talk, about Lee mostly, so time passed really quickly until Paddington where we met up with our merry giggle of loppies Shirley, Maeve, Carol, Carolyn. Not down a rabbit hole, but down the UG we fled (as if late, for a very important date) and gained an extra one, Katie, as Shirley said, who heard our chatter of, not White Rabbit but Lee and the White City. Oh, it was so lovely to meet everyone for the first time, Diana, Eva, Shirley3, Jo4, Jill, Pauline, Claire. Auds and absent loppies were lamented. Lots of other loppies from LMAS (waves).Proudly arm-banded as Priority we sortied to the Coffee Shop. We were mostly in row 2 and 3 of the gantry and I was sat between Maeve and Marianne. Luckily two spare places were available on the floor for Carol and Shirley so loppiedom is represented for posterity. I got a nudge from Marianne, Lee alert at left. We had a mostly good view except I had to put myself ear to ear with Marianne a little (my new best friend) and the camera obscured Lee's face for me in the interview but I would rather watch the real curls than the pic on the monitor. His voice was rich and warm and fabulous, Youtube sound is not the same quality so I can't wait to watch the video. Lee waved and smiled at us all before he left. It was party time between shows and the guests were a fun surprise. The dispersal was a bit chaotic, we were ushered out very quickly so proper goodbyes were not said and it was back down the Rabbit hole,er UG and in a whirl I was back at Paddington. My day saverticket was for 7pm so Shirley and I parted after a fantastic day. So good to meet up and I hope to see everyone again soon.
Ohmmmmms indeed for those in need from me too. Off to my fluffy pink cloud as well.

Waving to Sue - got your email, your wish is my command! LOL badge mark 2 is now available to view - this is a personalised one but can be left plain if you prefer. I have found a website that sells do-it-yourself badge kits at quite a reasonable price and have sent off for a few to experiment with - need to go and buy more ink for my printer as well....this Lee hobby is not cheap! I will play around and if I manage to produce anything presentable you can twist my arm for them. Here it is
http://public.fotki.com/CarysSigs/lee/fan2.html

Poor Sorryforyourself -- I feel your pain. Like being told, Cinders, you CAN go to the ball...ah, no you can't! How frustrated you must have been all day. Ohhmms for you, too, as well as our usual assorted loppies, ploppies, sloppies, &c.

Thanks for the reviews, all, wow, you had a great time! I know I keep saying it, but I don't think I've ever heard / seen him better. Eva, have you recovered yet? Have any of you? I hope the Cool-It Company has bulk rates.

Carys, I wanted to say your badge design reminded me of something & it took all day for me to figure out what it was: the TV series The Prisoner. You remember the penny-farthing bicycle? Not sure what it is that's reminding me of that, but I have a weird brain. Shut up, Eva...

Ok, BHB, you are in good form today. Ah you got to see some of your friends yesterday and they were all happy to see you? Well, of course they were. Now, I'd like eggs Benedict with smoked salmon (don't do ham), and a mimosa -- just like I had at the Dublin-fest. My way of remembering being in the very excellent company of loppies. Besides, what's wrong with champers at this time o' morning...

Morning morning - I see The Bard has beaten me to it this morning, so breakfast is already on the go. I think I'll have some pancakes with crispy bacon and maple syrup - forgot to say look on the AT website for the recipe for Marmelade B&B pudding - AT said it tasted fantastic! OK will catch up from office later! Cool It Company - may I please have one in Emerald Green? Many thanks! Instant dispatch would be appreciated!

Wow ladies, thank you so much for those reviews - fantastic!

Pen it sounds like you need a big hug! Have a virtual one from me -

and you to sorryforherselfloppy - a very big hug!

Shirley, Carol - what? you weren't flirting??? That's letting the side down, that is!

Well BHB it sounds like the rat problem has cleared up - time for breakfast - any porridge today?

Good morning to all Loppies from this Loppy who has not even begun to stop smiling. Good morning BHB, you look happy this morning too. Lots of friends come to see you in your other job did they, how nice. Funny, lots of us were out yesterday too. And averysorryforherselfloppy we missed you loads. So sorry the real world came up and bit you.

No ladies, you wouldnt expect any less in the BeachCafe/Bistro - specials today include a marmalade bread and butter pudding that comes highly recommended (and yes AT really did get stuck in and eat the rest of his bowlfull in the ad break), and instead of the usual smoothies we have the Jordan fresh juice drink. Now that really did sound good. Even the queen of the LushLoppies herself admitted to fancying some but I bet she spices it up with a splash of gin (just for the juniper berries of course).

Order - Urgent

To Coolitcompany

One large super cooling system
Colour Pink (what else???)
Location - whereever I am
Timescale - IMMEDIATE - Just rewatched Lee on AT. O M G

Just a quick pop in before RL drags me away but just wanted to say a big thank you for the lovely reviews of yesterday. I know we had had the programme to watch but it is wonderful to get all the build up and background atmosphere. I just hope that there were no loppies left outside?

Ever since the end of ADWD I have felt impelled to know how GO was getting on and seeing him yesterday I feel I could burst with pride and joy that he looks so happy. I really feel he is a lovely human being and it really came across that it is a two way thing – he gives us pleasure but he so feeds off all the wonderful support you gave him, so all you lovely people that went yesterday can have the satisfaction that you are helping him. Brilliant! That recording is going to get a lot of playings!

Sorry Geri, with all the fun of AT I haven’t said thank you for the latest chapter. It just gets better and better. (Where’ve I heard that before!!)

Big Sigh - really need the cooling system urgently! Just watched the clips (no sound alas) and relived the moment. Apologies to everyone that couldn't be there (big hug for Auds) but it was a lovely day. Setting aside the GO (as if) it was really interesting to watch how they changed the set, dealt with people, whisked them on and off, lit two huge candelabra with real candles (10 seconds boys), didn't quite do it, slid offstage and then tiptoed back on to finish off whilst AT was interviewing on the other side of the set. Great to meet up with new people too, as well as already met friends! I have to confess that yes, the Jordan drink did sound lovely and I might even give it a go (with amendments of course) - recipe apparently on the AT show site!
Back to reality now - lots of catching up in the office today as out for virtually two days! Have two interviews today for new sec as well. Geri we though of you when we heard about the pushy Cliff fans! (as if!). Haven't yet listened to the GO singing on the show, but if it was anything less than absolutely fantastic they have done him a disservice - the voice was amazing - like being covered in chocolate caramel!

Morning all, this logging on early could turn into a habit with me! For some reason didn't sleep too well last night, serious overheating problem as well. Please CoolItCompany may I have one deluxe version system ? Multicoloured would be nice.
Poor verysorryforherselfloppy (why do I keep reading that as floppy?) hope you are feeling a bit better today, having been able to watch the video several times. In a perfect world we would all be there every time the GO makes an appearance.
Still liking the badge Carys, tell me about an expensive habit, now all my cash devoted to one thing!
Forgot to say last night what a pleasure it was to meet some more loppies, must have been thinking of other things, and as Vali said (hi Vali, waves) the end was the usual scramble of people disappearing in every direction, so sorry to anyone I didn't say goodbye to properly.
Hello BHB you are looking very happy this morning, oh you had a good day yesterday seeing a lot of people in London? Well I had a good day as well, let's exchange stories shall we? I'll just have some coffee then we can sit in this corner, of course there's enough room for us both if we just squeeze up a bit!!

I see it has been graciously conceded on the Forum that maybe I did not push much to get to the front of the throng last week. But the point is we did not push at all. Did not need to. The rail was clear as we walked out so we went there and immediately the security guy started keeping us in place while moving on those behind us. Not only that but he was working around moving the ropes and things and we were really in his way, but he still made sure we stayed where we were. And that really is what happened - we were talking about it right there in the throng - Could not believe our luck.

But that was the second time I had ended up there, and the first time we had no say at all in where we stood. It was the special birthday treat I had arranged back in September for my stepfather for his 80th. I had booked the full hospitality package, and after the show finishes you are taken back to the private room by the butler, and we were encouraged to stay there until the theatre had emptied. And we were literally the last people out of the theatre, escorted by the butler and the events organiser - lovely people all, and were sort of handed over to the security people who had kept that rail area free - presumably for us since that was where we were directed to stand. On that occassion a man pushed through from behind us and accosted Lee on the step. Had his arm around Lee's shoulders and neck before anyone could blink. Lee was a bit shaken and security hussled him away fast but they really had to pull him off Lee.

No way could that have happened last week we were packed in too tight to move. Which led me to wonder exactly how much luck was involved. Certainly the timing is relevant - the security people dont want anyone standing by any of the doors until fairly late on, but I think they are then deciding who they want on that rail end. It is the only place were you are at the same height as Lee, so where he is more vulnerable. What more obvious thing from the security teams point of view than to chose who you have standing there. And indeed at the front of the step too. They sometimes move people back and let more in front - and isnt it strange that those groups of screaming women never end up right at the front??? I think they are using those who they recognise and know will cause no trouble, and those who look like a safe bet to form a barrier between them and Lee. Please dont get me wrong, I dont think all those moved back or away are, or look like they could be difficult, - I think that being in the right place at the wrong time is a big factor too. Just that I dont think it is all down to luck. I think the crowds are being subtly but effectively managed - as they should be.

And on something entirely different, Gillian has been texting this morning to see how we enjoyed the AT show yesterday. She had forgotten to set her recorder and hopes that her scallop did it on her behalf. I have mentioned that just one or two of us seem to have managed to record it and will be happy to help out!!!!

Morning everyone, enjoyed reading all the reviews from yesterday, sounds dreamy.... I was glued to my TV and so wishing I could be there. Felt for you averysorryforherslfloppy (yes Pauline floppy pops out at me too!)hope you're feeling better today.
Geri, thanks fro the latest chapter.

Shirley, just to let you know I can't access my e-mail at the moment. Its the same problem I had last week, thought I had it sussed but now it won't open at all. Its telling me to check my cache and cookies before it can open.
Help! Any techies know how I can do this?

Oh Dear - am I the last to post re yesterday? RL intervened once I got home with pancakes to make etc and have only just got myself together after a LII night. Enjoyed yesterday tremendously meeting up with old friends and making some new ones. Rewatched the show and Lee is so much more relaxed now doing such programmes and the gorgeous smile much in evidence, he just lights up the whole room. Roll on the next time - what about Richard & Judy - he hasn't done that yet? Sorry didn't get to say goodbye, we were rushing to find the loos and once we emerged no-one else in sight!

Chosen people! I like that thought Shirley! that security guy knew what to look for hey! and yes, regardless of the accusations of pushing it realy did happen just like that. It was awful to read some of the comments on the forum, to be accused of pushing others out of the way was something I had to respond to. Not checked it out yet today but glad to hear there is some recognition that we didn't behave badly. I'll go have alook.

Jane, keep getting a picture of you giving THAT massage!!! must try to put it out of my head.

Hi All, so much to catch up on!!
haven't read all the posts/reviews yet as I could only get on the computer long enough last night to look at the youtube of GO on AT. Wasn't he just wonderful, he only gets better and better.
I think the time may be coming when we will have to invest in another laptop at home and dedicate it solely to Lopppy Use!
Will be going back over all the reviews with relish, who needs lunch? This may just be part of the LID I heard mentioned. And another chapter to read on the way home - thanks Geri.
Anyway - just wanted to say WELL DONE to the studio loppies for the fantastic vocal welcome you gave him - you did us proud!

Shirley and Suex I believe you. I got really upset by some of the things on the forum and I wasn't even with you. I've stood in that spot twice and never been told to move. I think it is a combination of luck and not appearing to be a pushy screamer. I was particularly upset about the abuse the ears got. Did you see someone actually said they were the wrong shape for loppy bunny ears! I really did feel like posting get a grip and a sense of humour but as I don't post there I kept out of it and just fumed quietly.

On a happier note my video worked yesterday. WOW WOW WOW. I loved his little face when he did the phantom mask and you all booed the idea. Glad you had a good time.

I thought that about the ears too Alison. And it is so funny that when they get evidence that they dont like they just discount it. They were all on and on about how Lee would not like them, but when Carol went on there and said that Lee had told her he liked the ears - oh well he was just being polite!! But there was no need for him to say anything to her at all. And he knows Carol is the original Loppy and would have said zip if he really didnt like them.

Glad your video worked Alison. I love that shot too oh and the smiles....melting just thinking about it. Actually, must be time to watch it again! I could get used to this w**king from home lark, suppose I should try to do a little something later!

Alison and Shirley - I posted on that thread and I did try and explain about the ears! Trust me it was very hard not to say to some of them 'get a life you miserable s*ds!' etc but you have to be very careful what you say on the forum now!

Funny isn't it how careful we've tried to be to be nice, but at times I felt I was being accused of stampeding small children to get near Lee. Ah well written word is hard, and I like to think I just misread it, definately had to bite my lip and not to say get a life. I thought least said the better.
One of the best bits I thought too Alison, believe me the cry of "noooo" in the studio was even louder and caused much amusement.

I forgot to add in my post above - that bit was my favourite bit too! The smile and laugh towards the audience is just gorgeous! I think we must try and think of some more superlatives to describe Lee - mega-fantastic or mind blowingly scrumptious for example!!

Afternoon Ladies
I have had 5 more photo's from Jo, (Ithink they are from AT) sorry it took so long but been VERY busy, they are now on the Loppie Ladies album.
Let me know if any errors as I done it in a rush.
http://picasaweb.google.com/thefatcontroller4

Shirley, never mind about the ears, what about MY SOCKS?????????????????

Still playing catch up but couldn't wait to finish reading as I've just seen the bit about the masked ball in Geri's story. I'm going to one on Saturday - my work 'do'!! This must be an omen.

Btw, I thought it was Gemma Jones too Ali, convinced of it. I could only remember her from a prog I used to watch when younger when she played an Nanny (?) or something in a period drama on Sunday nights I think.

Right, off to finish reading...

Debbie, I think you're referring to The Duchess of Duke Street? I have only seen YouTubed SB awards and it didn't look like Gemma Jones to me but need to watch video for better pic.

Carol, another Loppy here bogged down with w**k. This time yesterday .......

Just wanted to say it was lovely to meet up with so many loppies at the AT show. Shirley you were so lucky being taken to the second row like that (I was sitting in the row behind you before you were moved)

My eyes did keep straying to the left when GO was standing there watching some of the other parts of the show - didn't he look amazing and as everyone has said so well rested.

I couldn't post before this as my elderly mum had a fall this morning and I had to rush her to the doctors.

I can't remember who it was that said their video failed but I have the At show on Sky+ and can transfer it to DVD is needed.

Back from Madge walk and the school run and have finally caught up.

Hope your mum is ok now Deanna. I've been through all that sort of thing but thankfully my mum is now well looked after in a good Home. It was very stressful. Hope your Dad is well now too Karen.

I was starting to panic as I forgot (I know, I know) to record yesterdays prog but thanks to Jo4 I've now seen it. THANKYOU JO! I tried to enjoy it in full but youngest dollop kept sniggering over my shoulder. I should have waited until their bedtime but then ploppy would be sniggering instead. SOMETIMES THERE'S NO PEACE IN THIS HOUSE! All I ask is a little bit of ME time to watch, drool and faint over the GO. Do they really need dinner or clean clothes I ask?

OOH, he looked the most sickeningly droolable yet. Shame AT asked the same old questions but I suppose they can't ask much else until he's moved on to another role/cd. Thanks for all the insider info. Shirley, Carol and the rest - you could bring back that programme on TV, Wish You Were Here, except this time it would only refer to Lee Mead appearances! Sorryforyourself - I sympathise, I really do. Have you dragged yourself up from your pool of tears and seen the doc about your broken heart? There's no other remedy but to trot along to the Adelphi tout de suite and indulge yourself in the show.

Diana, how did you remember that? That's exactly the show I meant. If it isn't her I'll eat my pink fluffy stilettoed slippers.

Like the Loppy photos. Look like you're all having a rabbit of a time.

Geri - how weird , I am a huge fan of The Prisoner and know exactly what you mean though of course that design was not in red and black maybe it is having a subliminal effect on me. Deanna sorry to hear about your Mum hope she is OK. Does she need oooohmmmms? sending some anyway.

ALW birthday show news: http://www.thestage.co.uk/news/newsstory.php/19767/lloyd-webbers-birthday-show-to-feature-top

Diana - thanks for the link! How interesting! Just realised I am going to see Joseph on ALW birthday!! I wonder if they will do anything special?!! Hopefully Lee won't dash off afterwards for his party and not do the scrum!!

Afternoon all! Blimey, it's taken me over 2 hours to read and answer my e-mails and to read all that's happened on the blog in the few days I've been awy from the Net. Roll on the delivery of my laptop, so I don't have to do these marathon catch ups in the future.
Carys,- the badge design is wonderful, and suits us to a T. Let us know how the production goes.
Geri,-sorry about your mobile getting soggy by me reporting back after the show yesterday. I wasn't just drooling,- I was salivating! I have to admit to having had an Alzheimer Light moment, but I had forgotten about you asking me to wear something green for you. My Shirley (my friend) was wearing a green coat,- does that count? And yes, that lovely queue regulator (?) was making those commentd about the Cliff fans, and had a bit of an embarrased moment when I told him I was a Cliff fan too. He then reassured me that I was a lovely Cliff fan !!!
It was so nice to meet "new" faces, Jill, Vali, Kathie, and of course to see the old lot again.
I see the others have kept you in suspence and not done their job telling you about the real attraction of the AT show. I will rectify that at once: Let me introduce to you: ROLAND RAT !!!!!!!!!! It's what you have been waiting for, isn't it??????? No ?????
All right, I'll talk about Lee instead then. AT was talking to Timothy West when there was a quiet shiver going through the audience: Lee was spotted!!! But, being the good little Loppies that we are, not a shout was heard. Sorry, Tim boy, but you lost me at that moment. If you read this blog, I apologize. It was your bad luck to be interviewed at the same time as GO was standing where we could see him!!!!!! We didn't need to be told to applaud when Himself was introduced. It's a wonder all the spotlights in the ceiling were still in place after we'd stopped cheering!
Auds,- when he started to sing MIWY, I thought of you. It was maybe just as well you weren't there,- you would have fainted straight away!!! I was having palpitations and whatnots myself,- having feeling quite unbecoming a lady of my advanced years! The others have described the details so well, I won't bore you by repeating them. I just want to say that being so close to him, was almost unreal.
The journey home was as bad as the one coming up, with cancelled trains and having to do extra connections, with the result that we weren't home until after 8pm. My friend Shirley and I has decided to eat out afterwards, but when we finally alighted from the train, we were both so exhausted that a fish and chips dinner in front of the telly sounded much more appealing. We ended the evening in proper Loppy fashion, wathing Lee and his Joseph journey on DVD.
I couldn't settle to sleep, but as this is quite usual for me after seeing Lee live, I came prepeared, and was still reading at 2am. Next morning Shirley came downstairs bleary eyed and yawning at 8.30 am. She said she'd had the most unsettled night. She'd found herself humming ADWD at 2 o'clock in the morning. I just laughed, and diagnosed LII !!! She said:" Thank you Dr. Eva, and what medication do you recommend?" I put Lee Mead CD on, and calm was restored!
Geri,- the fairytale is getting better and better, and I'm green with jealousy. Lady Jane gets to massage Sir Lee beautiful body, and all my alter ego seems to be conserned about is Nana Jean's behind!!!!!!

Sign up everyone! ALW has a new mailing list just for details, including ticket arrangements, of the birthday celebrations - link here http://www.reallyuseful.com/rug/lists/?p=subscribe&id=1

Hello all, nice to hear how much fun everyone (except 'floppy') had yesterday. I admit, I had to watch him again before I went to bed. Anyway, finished my lit assignment & it's in the post; have the rest of the week off to do the psych paper. But today -- I'm taking off! Plan on indulgently writing a nice long chapter (if no one minds) since the braincells won't be distracted by other things. And speaking of the story, I have to tell you, Jane's been sending me pictures to go with each chapter and they're STUNNING! They are exactly what I had in mind. Only problem is coming up with situations that will challenge her -- just kidding, Jane!

Eva, how could you forget the green? One little thing I ask you -- tsk, tsk! Never mind, one must make allowances for age...

Eva, your story is almost as good as Geri's! I cannot imagine calm ever being restored in your house. Don't be jealous of Lady Jane - it is a most unnatractive trait and will only make her head bigger. (whispers, we'll get her back one day...).

Aw Geri! I'm blushing! Thank you for being so nice about those piccies! And I think I can speak for everyone when I say there wont be any ojections to a Looooonnnnggg chapter!

Eva - thank you for the Roland Rat update, and don't be jealous - Lady Jane didn't enjoy massaging Sir Lee one bit you know, (she lied)Diva got to dance with Sir Lee, remember? (and yes, I've done a picture of that - And one of Deb-rite, with appropriate footwear!)

Thanks for the links folks.

And Ohmmms for your Mum Deanna - hope she's feeling better soon.

Evening all - just back from a day-long meeting that was very heavy going and I am exhausted and in need of a very large drink - and Geri, do we mind a long chapter??????? - for me, after the day I've had the longer the better! Looking forward to it.

Phew - paid the price today for being out of the office for almost two whole days! Not only piles of work, but two interviews to do! Still did manage to get a massage into the day as well, so not all bad. However, it meant I couldn't come on the blog today, so will have to do a quick recap of what's happened! Glad you got back safely Aunty Eva! I was just too overcome by THE RAT to talk about him (she lied). Much preferred seeing Paddington in the first (Lee) show! Have downloaded the recipe for the b&b pud (it is slightly different to Mr Turner's instructions yesterday) and I think it will use up my whole saturated fat allowance for the year!! Oooo Geri, you mean a nice long, long chapter??? Goody!!! Have some "proper" typing to do later (and Torchwood to try and squeeze in!) so will be back later! Carys thanks for the info I'm just off to sign up! ....just think this time last week - oh yes I was thinking about mowing down young children, the disabled and any poor unsuspecting person who hadn't been to see the show before, sharpening my elbows to push everyone out of the way, and making sure I had my two foot high ears on!!! Grrr still making my blood boil!!

Evening all, well it must be punishment for a fab day yesterday, or just a bad day (yes I've had a bad day), Sloppy had setback and had to take her to doctors. Looks' like it's back to the surgeon, arghhhhh!
Deanna as you can tell I know what Sloppy problems are like so sending ohhhhmmmms for yours and really hope she is ok.
Karen I've joined you inthat very long drink!
Thanks for the link Carys, nice to think there might be more excitement soon.
Hope you are feeling better floppy, just thimk of goodies to come!!
Glad to see you home Eva, another one with LII, well the cure is worth it!
Carol thankyou for the laugh, you know we were really good yesterday, could have scored so many points!
Geri PLEASE a very long chapter, I need one and want one, PLEEEEEASE.

Btw more recent Gemma Jones is as Madame Pomfrey in the Harry Potter films, I don't think it is her, do you want ketchup on those slippers Debbie?

Got my drink and just caught up with today's events.

What is wrong with them on the forum these days - think I'll just stay here!

Deanna & Pauline2 - sorry to hear about your sloppies. Hope they're both okay. I was thinking the other day when my Dad was rushed to hospital how, not having any Dollops or Scollops I thought I'd got away with all those kind of worries but suddenly, I seem to be constantly worrying about one parent or the other. When do the roles get reversed - it just sort of creeps up on you doesn't it! Still, I suppose they've worried about me for the past 42 years (and, no dounbt, still do) so I guess it's my turn now!!

Eva - good to have you back although I was relying on you to review the Rat (okay I lie, sorry!!). So, you think Timothy West is a cloppy do you and reads this site - well it made me laugh but I guess it could be true!!

Thanks for the links ladies (oops sorry & Martin)!

Right off to get dinner, another drnk and settle down for the next chapter!!

Thanks for all the best wishes for my mum ladies, you are lovely.

Watched my recording of AT again and was amazed how much I missed because I kept sneaking looks at GO who watching some of it from left hand the side of the stage off-camera. He was laughing and clearly enjoying himself. It was nice to see him so relaxed. Interviews don't trouble him so much now it seems and he clearly appreciated the fact that some of the loppies were there.

Shirley - sorry we didn't have that long to chat, and to the other loppies I met. Won't it be lovely when so many of us meet up on 18th Oct, the noise of chattering will be tremendous.

Had a text from a loppy friend of mine who was at the matinee today. She was sitting in a coffe shop with her friend at 1pm minding her business and guess who sat down at the next table? He was with another guy so she just savoured the moment and of course didn't bother him.

The revolve broke down at the performance apparently. After a halt of 20mins, two guys came out dressed as the camel. From then on she said they just carried/pushed the scenery and props onto the stage and the show went on as usual. Seems it has a happend a number of times now.

Oh Pauline2 - sorry to hear about your Sloppy and Deanna too! Karen you are so right, it is a complete role reversal isn't it? Debbit come on, confess have you got the pink bunny slippers on? A propo TW on the AT show, the GO was very good as he looked at TW all the time he was talking (whilst perched on his stool looking absolutely gorgeous - that's the GO not TW) - his mum should be very proud of his manners. OK listened to the recording and I have to say it does him an injustice - he sounded much better "in the flesh" - sorry don't want to rub it in to those who couldn't go (kiss, kiss Auds), but it was a much more mellow velvety sound in the studio. Now coming onto the star of the show - Mr R Rat - he was very naughty and deviated from the script at one point (and was also a little rude!). I think we know which guest AT preferred!!! Off to feed a Ploppy now - well someone has to do it!

oh woops, meant to say just spoke to Sloppy and my uncle has been told that the cancer has not spread to his bones, but is in the area around the prostate. The consultants are meeting tomorrow and he was told he may have an op, but that on the plus side his good health and age will count for him, and everything should go ok. So, fingers crossed it all turns out to be fine in the long run!

oh dear - just realise I have re-christened Debbie (although you may prefer Debbit???), and left off the "s" from a propos! Tut! Tut!

Beat me to it Pauline2 - I'm sure that's not Gemma Jones too. Its sort of on the tip of my tongue who it is, so ketchup time it is.

Deanna lovely to meet you yesterday, and sorry today has counterbalanced the pleasure for both you and Pauline2 so promtly. Hope both your mums soon recover. And lots of OOOHHHMMSS for all those with poorly folks.

Carys, thanks for that link. Been and signed up. Was getting`cross about the age question, and then realised that Geri had solved that problem for me forever - so I put 27. Job done!!!

Geri - a long chapter - now let me think...... Can I cope with extra laughs, more clever references, yet more insults and indignities heaped upon Sir Weepsalot and his devoted Nana, yes, maybe, and I suppose I might just be able to cope with some more wonderful mental images that your words create for me of our Hero, Sir Lee. So on balance Geri, weighing up all the pros and cons - YES PLEASE!!!!!!

You may be pleased to hear that I finally got the order off for the rest of the tee shirts, but I am really miffed. A size that one of the Loppies wanted is no longer available in black - just white, so one lady cant have her THUD in black - how can they do that to us. I am going to check out my local M&S tomorrow to see if they have it there so fingers crossed. Because we are challenging their size range - ordered from 8 to 28 and including every size in between - they have advised it will take about 2 weeks for them to fill the order, so apologies for the delay. Suex - hoping you can see this even if your email system is still down - they will be coming to you direct.

Oh Shirley - how annoying - fingers crossed eh?

Pauline2 and Carol sounds like you both need some more Ohmmms (glad that it's not spread, Carol, that's one peice of good news!)

Carol, I am so glad to hear about your uncle.

Deanna I cannot begin to imagine how the cast are going to cope on 18 October!!! The house is going to be packed with Lee fans both excited and tearful. And given how much they feed off the energy they get back from the audience they are going to be completely manic. Hey Carol, we could wear our 3 foot high neon light flashing RABBIT ears. With our glam THUD teeshirts, our fan badges (please can I have a pink one Carys - as described by Geri in the last chapter), luminous pink socks - as modelled by Jill yesterday. Oh yes, we know how to do classy fans alright!!! Anyone want to add any other classy tributes?? I know, maybe we should wave some big banners or something???

Thanks Shirley and pleased that the prognosis for your uncle looks so much better Carol.

I agree- I think the cast will love the 18th they will get a really great send off. Lots of tears no doubt, I'll have to remember to pack lots of tissues.

I don't see what would be wrong with banners at the end of the meggamix, it would be great for Lee to see a mass of banners as he is raised on the cherrypicker.

I can't believe I'm doing this,- posting in the middle of The Bill!!!! Shows how my priorities have changed.
Debbie,- thank you for the compliment. I aim to please !
JaneE,- if you so dislike any bodily contact with Sir Lee (HA!)I'll take your place the next time Geri has something similar in mind for you. Maybe she will even make me beautiful!
Geri,- as an apology for forgetting your colour, a little pressie will be in the post tomorrow!
carol,- I'm so pleased to hear about your uncle. I hope his good luck holds out.
Pauline2 and Deanna,- Ooooooohhhhhhmmmmms for your poor ones.
Karen,- maybe Timothy isn't a Cloppy, but Prunella might be a Sloppy !

Awwwww thanks for the ohhhmmms guys. The worst part is feeling you've climbed a mountain only to find yourself at the bottom again!
Carol that seems positive news so here's hoping and will keep ohhhmmmming.
Now I hope as I look like being a LOL on the 18th somebody will be tastefully dressed for me! Pink is favourite but love blue as well! Liking the ears though still sound a bit small, might not totally obscure the view, T-shirts, check, banners, check. Maybe flashing wands, know I've seen them somewhere and would really be distracting!

Hey brilliant idea Pauline - and how about broomsticks complete with navigation lights??

Aw Eva - we know you're beautiful!!

Apologies for my review yesterday, missing out the details of RR interview. I think there will be a little editing needed, too rude for that time in the day.
Deanna and Pauline2 -I do hope your Sloppies are on the mend soon.
Debbie - I take no credit for posting links for the vids. I just put them on here as some people find it easier to use them than go on YouTube or LMAS to find them. We have to thank the Queen of the vids, Kaz. I have emailed her a few times to say how much they are appreciated.
Re the ears debate, I read it for myself last night. Then I had to calm down. AliB you did try, just seemed to bring out the knives. My view is to leave them to it. Shirley did explain, not really seen how that went, but I'll leave that thread alone. I was so cross at the end of w**k today, it'll probably push me over the edge.
Martin - Thanks for loading up my pictures. They were of AT waiting.
One bit of news I know some of you will be really (not) excited about, I have another pair of trousers!!! Jeans, M&S, from a charity shop £5, so more money for something else. Any suggestions?

Oooh yes yes Shirley, they would be fantastic. Maybe you could manage a cicuit of the theatre!
Jo4 you know how to live, if you didn't throw your money around, well just think how many times you could go to the show!
Torchwood time!

Hello
I’m back, thanks for all your wishes for Sloppy. Have not looked back yet, to see what you all have been up to .Came back Monday afternoon then work Monday and Tuesday night, no work until Friday night- thank goodness as I do need the rest.
Think I need Debbie to give her film style review of all that has been going on.
Have we got any new Loppies? If so HELLO and Welcome

Maggie-quick review; wait chatter chatter, wow wow, melting, ahhh, sweet,rush home.

From Rosefire
http://youtube.com/watch?v=c7bA3yZctjo

have we seen this one before?
http://youtube.com/watch?v=hDdQnMTgjLM

YouTube doesn't like me today. The links from Jo4 are great, but they will only play in fits and starts, so I've given up.
I can verify that Jo4's got new trousers,- they are great! She christened them yesterday at the AT show (where else?). There is no limits to the things that lady will do for GO!
I've just checked that my Sky+ had worked properly yesterday. It did ! I checked the program twice to make sure (as you do.)

Eva-I was going to wear the new suede boots too but it forecast rain. Well done with the Sky+. Can you download the vids and then play them from the saved file. I use realplayer (updated version, still free) and a tab comes up when put the cursor on the vid to allow me to download. Much easier than the old way of downloading from YT in a flv file.

Chapter Sixteen

Strawberry led him up the winding staircase to the little round room at the top of the tower. The sun streamed merrily through the diamond-paned windows and lay in a thin haze over the valley below dappling the hills and fields with golden light, and sparkling in the lake waters.
“This is my favourite room,” Strawberry confessed. “It has such a lovely view and it’s far enough away from the hustle and bustle to be peaceful. I selected it just for you.”
“It’s charming,” Sir Lee said. “Thank you. I’m sure I don’t deserve it.”
“I’m quite sure you do.” She ruffled his curls and he flushed. “Your costume for the masquerade is hanging in the cupboard. You have an hour so you have plenty of time to change. Is there anything you need before I go?”
“No, thank you, you’ve been wonderful.”
It was her turn to flush. “Well, I must dash,” she said, flustered. “Lot’s to do with this party. It’s Dot’s birthday, you know, so it’ll be very special. The Fisher Queen will be coming, and a lot of other celebrities from the wizard and elvish worlds, so I must get cracking. See you later, dear.”
“Thanks, darling,” he said. “See you later.”

An hour later he made his way downstairs feeling a bit conspicuous in his costume. The soft white tunic was in the Grecian style and barely skimmed his thighs; it was open at the front and exposed the well-defined muscles of his chest. His sturdy legs were bare apart from the straps of the leather sandals that criss-crossed to the knee. As he studied his reflection, he was tempted to do a twirl, but he decided modesty forbade such a gesture, so he picked up the sun-shaped mask of solid gold and slipped it into place. It covered his face from forehead to just above his mouth and he reflected that, in a way, it was quite exciting to walk into the midst of a crowded room, filled with people he knew, and be a stranger among them. Of course, they would be strangers to him too. Almost like people who knew each other intimately from written communication, without ever having met face to face. As if friendships could be formed in such an unlikely way, he thought.
He entered the banqueting hall and gazed around him. The loppies were everywhere in evidence, dancing, singing, eating, and drinking. The one called Christmas somehow managed to have three different drinks in her hand at the same time, and she rotated them so she never sipped from the same cup more than once at a time. Her eyes brightened when she saw him and she raised her cups to him.
Diva seemed to have no difficulty recognising him and she ran forward and plonked a wet kiss on each cheek, although, with the mask, she actually got very little of his skin. Despite that, she laughed loudly, smacked him on the rear and told him he looked very fetching. Before she got too carried away she was called by Dot and she went most reluctantly, but the twinkle in her blue eyes told him she wouldn’t stay away long.
The Wise Wizard Webber was resplendent in a deep blue cloak which sparkled with gemstones every time he moved. Despite the golden mask he wore Lee was certain the old wizard was watching him. Dot raised his golden chalice towards Lee, and the young knight nodded back, feeling somewhat bemused.
He gazed around the room. He had thought it would be pleasant not to recognise others, but it was, in fact disquieting. He was shown to the table by a group of loppies called The Kar’ns (each in different shades of lavender; they ruffled like walking hydrangeas), and he sat beside a knight dressed as Harlequin.
“Shall you tell me who you are?” Lee asked.
“Guess,” came the muffled reply.
“You’re trying to disguise your voice. I think you must be Charming.”
There was a soft laugh. “Never could hope to fool you!”
“Where’s Boyz?”
“Over there,” he indicated towards the end of the room. “Jack-in-the-green, covered with foliage and with that big tail.”
“Poor Boyz,” Lee said. “What a costume. Mind you, I feel a bit exposed like this.”
“I’m sure,” Charming replied.
Before they could have further conversation, Gray’mm appeared with his *poof!* and greeted them like a Hollywood MC.
“Hello, hello, knights, days, minstrel-lays – ooh! As if!”
There was scattered laughter and the party was well and truly begun. Lee’s golden chalice of mead was never allowed to empty, and Praline served him the largest dish of steak and onions he’d ever seen. “Wow,” he said. “That’s something else! I love onions, and I love to cook. I like to chop them up and put them on the steak.”
“Of course, dear,” Praline said. “It’s the only way to eat them.”
She slipped away and Lee relaxed in his seat, enjoying the food, the company and the splendid hall. His only regret was that Boyz was so far away from him, as were all the other knights. To his right was a tall man with light coloured curly hair. He was dressed as Poseidon, and his trident kept falling over and jabbing the passing loppies, who were not amused. Seeing Lee look at him curiously, he said, “You’re that young chap everyone’s pinning their hopes on, aren’t you?”
“Well, I don’t know about that,” Lee said. “I only know I want the Order of Joseph more than anything.”
“Yes. Well, you can’t do any worse than the twit who’s running loppydom right now.
“And what’s your name, Sir?” Lee asked.
“I am Sir Michael of Ball,” said the other. “Perhaps you’ve heard of me?”
Had he heard of Sir Michael of Ball! One of the most famous knights of the kingdom! Of course, he hadn’t expected the knight to be so…rotund, or his hair to be so streaked with grey, but of course, Sir Michael had been a knight twenty years ago. It was hardly surprising he had aged.
“I am here for a special reason,” Sir Michael said. “To offer a feat only a true knight can perform.” He winked at Lee, then rose. “The time has come, Wise Wizard Webber,” he said. The green seaweed and algae entwined his large chest and belly, and they rustled when he moved. The trident gleamed with an eerie light as the ancient hero picked it up.
“Do you have it?” he asked the wizard.
From beneath his cloak, the wizard drew a golden scabbard in which lay a glittering sword. “This is the magical sword of Mead (don’t be filthy!)” he said. “To win it, all you have to do is draw it from the scabbard. The knight who draws the sword, gets to keep it. Simple.”
The wizard gazed around the room. “Who’ll go first?”
“I will,” said Harlequin. He rose and went to the head table and picked up the scabbard. Confidently, he took the hilt and pulled.
Nothing happened.
He tried again.
Zip.
“Dammit!” he said and stalked back to the table. Lee raised an eyebrow (which couldn’t be seen behind the mask) and said, “Not like you to get upset, Charming. Don’t worry, probably none of us will succeed.”
It seemed he was right. Each knight rose in turn and pulled, tugged, shouted, but the sword would not budge. At last, when all the other knights had tried but failed, it was Lee’s turn.
As he headed to the table, de-Anna whispered, “It’s held by a magical creature. It will release the sword if you treat it sweetly.”
Lee wasn’t sure if this advice was helpful but he smiled at the pretty loppy and went to stand before the table. Gently he caressed the sheath (stop that, all of you. This is a serious story. I mean it.) and he could feel a tremor within the dazzling casing. His fingers glided over the smooth metal and he picked it up. Instantly he felt the sheath grow heavier, tighter. The magical creature within would not surrender without some serious persuasion.
“Lee?” the wizard asked, but Lee’s eyes behind his golden mask became brilliant with excitement.
He held the sheath in both hands and began to sing. “Hey, have you ever tried,” he sang. “Really reaching out to the other side?” As his soft, velvet voice caressed the room, the loppies sank to the floor. Strawberry was heard gasping for a bucket, and the air whistled with the sound of frantically whipping fans.
Lee continued to sing and, as he neared the end of the song, the sheath made a noise like a sigh, and the sword slid gently from its scabbard into his hand.
The room began to roar and cheer then, suddenly, darkness fell and all the loppies screamed. A cold grey mist filled the hall and a malevolent voice called, “Honey, I’m home!”

Jo4 - new trousers! You mean success after the weeks of looking......and you didn't mention them when we saw you yesterday??!! Broomsticks! I like it!! We could follow him up with the cherry picker (making sure we obscure the view of those sitting in the upper circle of course!

Sorry Maggie - meant to say welcome back and hope Sloppy is now ok? Martin was very kind to us in your absence you will be pleased to know!

Oh Geri - that one had me howling with laughter - the magical sword of Mead!!!!!!! Priceless!

OOohh - Geri you posted while I was posting - I now need an extra large bucket (greek costume - oh yes!) and the air conditioning unit pronto please! Loved MB too!!! Pass me a fan quick!!!!! Now that's the length of episode I like (so no pressure there!)...and with those pictures in my mind I bid you all farewell and Sweet Meads!

Maggie good to see you again, glad things are going well, and for your uncle too Carol.
Busy day/evening so no chance to get here earlier, thanks for all the reviews, they really do bring it all to life for us.
Need to defrost my feet now, been rehearsing in a VERY cold church, may have to go to bed and stick them on ploppy, doubt he'll object (much?)
Night night and sweet meads everyone

Hi Maggie! (Waives)

Ooo Geri - thank you for that lovely Bedtime Story! Love the asides!

Night night loppies!

Hello, thought I'd pop in quickly before I went to bed, that was nearly an hour ago, OK so I'm a slow reader!!

Lots of ohhhmmmms for ailing parents, sounds like better news for your uncle, Carol.

Carys, like the Stage Loppy badge best, thanks for the response to my email, will post off my envelope tomorrow.

Loved reading all the AT reviews, thanks.

Looking forward to the next chapter Geri, how does a Loppy get to be in it??

Carol - great news about your Uncle - hope it continues to be so.

That'll teach me not to refresh before I post-nearly missed the latest chapter, I do love Gray'mm's Poof!!
Definitely off to bed now after my bedtime story

Geri-The dog thinks I've gone mad again, laughing, luckily no drink or food in sight, so laptop screen is safe. Love the Kar'ns. Thank you for the reading notes in brackets, although I have no idea what they mean. Loppies sinking to the floor, you must have had a special camera on us yesterday.

hi All, what a nice evening, first Torchwood, then get the laptop from scollop for another look at the AT show, (isn't it just great that the drought is over) and then to come on here and find a great long chapter, going back to read it now - thanks Geri ....xx

Geri, great chapter before bedtime. I might even dream about it. That would be swell.

My thanks for the great reviews of the AT show. Loved to hear and see him sing again.

Oh Geri, Strawberry got to ruffle the curls. Sign. And then Christmas and her 3 drinks. I was literally sat here laughing my head off. Dogs have now applied to have me certified. Cant wait to see Jane's drawings of this one........

Oh Carol, I had not thought of all the possibilities of view obstruction for the dress and upper circle, maybe BIG cloaks as well - if we fly really fast our cloaks can fly out and obscure the view for a few more people

Oopps, Should have refreshed before I posted. Excellent Geri, you're amazing.

Absolutely priceless Geri, I'm still sniggering, wonderful bedtime story, and nice and long thankyou!
Welcome home Maggie, hope you manage to rest and recover!
Going to try and have an earlyish night to catch up on lost sleep, so night night all.

Same here Pauline2. Goodnight all, smiling she wended her way to bed. Sleep tight and Sweet Meads to all.

To: SeriouslyoverheatedLoppy
The Cool-It company night shift have packed and dispatched with the installation engineer the pink system as per your instructions.

To: Carol
The Cool-It company night shift can not complete your order as colour has not been indicated.

To: Pauline2
The Cool-It company night shift have packed and dispatched with the installation engineer the multi coloured system as per your instructions.

Special delivery system on way to Ireland, as we understand a literary person has been overheated tonight. Colour green with darker green Oxalis acetosella decoration. FOC.

Geesh, I labour over a hot keyboard all night, and when I finally get done you're all off to bed. Must be someone around still ready to party? Anyone? (*pouts. goes off alone to watch Sex and the City.)

it's that darn youtube... keeps reminding of what I missed seeing in the flesh. And I have To keep watching it... And my video skills failed me.. only had time to check this evening can you believe it?? Very touched that other LOLs sent commiserations to the "floppy".
Oh Eva, thank you for thinking of me when HE sang THAT song. And Shirley and Carol thanks for taking me along in your thoughts.... I can't tell you how much that all cheered me up (a bit).
Cheered up immensely though with the loooong chapter Geri - thanks muchly. But jeeez, you drive a tuff bargain... writing those things and then telling us to behave!!! Snot fair - nor possible.
Carol - very pleased to hear the news of your Uncle.
Pauline - very sorry to hear the news of your sloppy, ditto Deanna.
Sue, it's great to have you back too - how's the foot? And Maggie, you too. Hope all is well..
Jo4 - The Wrong Trousers (or in your case, the Right Trousers - AT LAST! Well done. Look forward to checking them out at their next outing at Jo.
Enjoyed the Torchwood tonight. I think JBs acting is brilliant.. almost believe he's burning up inside for the lovely Gwen. Did anyone catch that quick quip from Ianto after Tosh says of the creature "We could feed the world!" -- Ianto says "..then we can release a single" I laughed so much (yes, we all know I am unbalanced) that I missed the rest of the dialogue.
Right - I can't keep it together any longer, so I'm off to have sweet meady dreams - knights and swords and sheaths... yummy stuff. Better wear my best nightie!!!

Apologies correction: Irish delivery decoration is Trifolium repens. (Our company botanist has just been sacked and her degree revoked.)

Geri,- what are you doing to us ? I'm glad you put in the brackets. I would have gone straight to the gutter if you hadn't! I liked the kissing bit, but could you give me a bit of skin next time, please? I know, I know, I'm greedy!
Jo4,- yes, I can download videos to Realplayer. After I changed IP, it was suddenly possible. It must have been blocked by AOL, because in spite of Realplayer being installed, the neccesary prompt never appeared before.
With some very pleasant images now planted in my mind, I'll bid you all good night, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams ( Keep it clean !), and wake up happy.

Oh Geri - you still there?

Hi notreallyoveritloppy - I thought TW was very sad. Had to switch over for a bit, quite often have to do that, as I'm a sensitive soul really. I do like JB in it, shame he's not like that really. Trouser viewing in a few weeks then?
Geri- I'm still here, well for a very short while.

Eva, I thought you could download, just checking.

Hi Floppy, Hi Jo4 (or Jodhpur, if you prefer). Yes, still here. Do feel like I'm missing a lot of fun, though, spending the night writing a story instead of getting into the blog. What's with all the broomsticks in the Adelphi? Haven't had time yet to go back & check. Can someone give me the Cliff Notes version?

Oops forgot to change the handle.... was going to do a bit of internet trawling - but think I'll take myself and my CD off to bed like I said I would a few minutes(?) ago.
Guess SITC has got the bard enthralled. Hope she doesn't get any ideas about featuring "Big's" persona into the Tale.
Right - where's that nightie???

By the way, Eva, you're going to love what I have planned for you in the next few pages. Oh, by the way, if anyone's interested, the story is now nearly 70 pages long!

Geri-Forum, Loppy ear debate, don't like, obstruct view, mad people (us). Stage Loppy retaliation 18 Oct 3ft ears, banners, flashing lights, flashing broom sticks.

Sorry Geri, name unchanged when I refreshed.

I didn't want to be left out so I have joined my fellow Irish Loppies and booked for October 18th. Don't know seat details yet but it doesn't really matter. Just being there will be enough.

On Sunday next I will be winging my way to London. I have tickets for Joseph for Tuesday 12th and Saturday 16th and would love to know if there are any other Loppies going on those days.

Dear Jodhpur:
Ta for the info
I missed all the banter
You're obviously good
For more than just a canter;
Loppies on brooms
Could create a commotion,
I'm glad that I'm safe
On this side of the ocean.
My glass is now empty,
I've drunk all my red;
Dear loppies, good night,
I'm headed for bed.

Pauline, sorry to hear about your sloppy, and Carol pleased to hear about your Uncle.

Not been in very long from American Lit. to find a loverlee new chap. from you Geri, thanks so much. Very taken with the greek costume, I wonder whether the Loppie knives will feature at all, steak and onions reminded me. Can we hope for another 70 pages? If so I wonder whether there's any chance Rave might make another brief appearance, maybe a bit more UC&P this time?

Hi Jenny-Have a lovely time at the weekend.

Geri-a whole chapter and a poem tonight, you are working too hard for us. We love it.
Oh, Geri I'm sooo dense, just got the double meaning in my new name. Got the literal meaning first time the other day, just got the play on words. Told you I'm just not good with words.

Nightlee night all.

Just got in from Joseph. Didn't think the previous two occasions could be bettered but I enjoyed it more tonight than ever before, partly due to Marianne's company; also had a very good seat - row G of the stalls on the left side - close enough to see Lee and his facial expressions clearly but also to have a good view of the whole stage and the rest of the cast (when I could tear my eyes away from the GO anyway). Saw Roro and several other faces I recognised.

However, there were more technical problems! I was eagerly watching for the first sight of Lee descending on the lift .... no Lee! But almost immediately spotted him walking across the stage. Then the wives didn't have their normal headgear when they first appear. More importantly, no Ishmalites, camel or snake! Instead two men played the parts and rather than Lee being dragged round behind the camel he was half pulled/half walked round. It was almost more funny to hear the camel and snake voices coming from these two actors than the "real" animals. I found out in the interval that the equipment had broken down during the matinee and the show had been stopped for half an hour. So if anyone's going tomorrow, be prepared for a slightly different show. Anyway that explained why Lee was out front later than usual. I arrived early at our meeting point and when I heard Lee was about to come out after the matinee, decided to go round to the front and take a few photos from the side/back of the crowd.

It was a very good audience tonight, really appreciative. I think it was the first time a lot of the audience had seen the show - there was a lot of spontaneous laughter. The cast were brilliant (the brother who was missing last Wednesday was back, Napthali?) - I think the technical problems plus the audience's response, brought out the best. Definitely prefer Jenna as the narrator - she's got a great voice. And as for the GO, oh boy! He was well fantastic fantastic fantastic!!! A few people, including us, stood up after the second CED and practically the whole audience as far as I could see was standing, applauding and cheering by the end of the megamix. My poor hands!

We got a pretty good position out front afterwards and Mar got one absolutely THUD pic of Lee looking straight into her camera. I nearly disgraced myself on the train home looking at some of the pics.

Better get to bed as I have another hectic day tomorrow though don't feel at all sleepy!

Hi all, checking in late as usual just as you’re all off to bed. Had a (very) minor emergency here tonight. Scollop was making Chinese lanterns at Beavers this evening & managed to slice the top of his finger, which then wouldn’t stop bleeding. I meanwhile had made the most of my hour of freedom & had gone round to see a friend, forgetting that my phone was still in silent mode. So I didn’t notice any of the 6 times the leaders tried to phone me!! So I’m now officially the Bad Mummy of the Beavers group!

Thanks to all the AT loppies for the brilliant reviews. Fortunately my temperamental video decided to be nice & actually recorded the show for me. Could not get over how fantastic our boy looked. So obviously rested and relaxed from his hols, and clearly loving the audience feedback. I have tried looking for Shirley & Carol in the audience but, as that would mean looking away from Lee, I haven’t quite managed it yet!

Carys, love both your badge designs, but my favourite is the Stageloppies one.

Lots of OOHHHMMMS to Pauline, Deanna & Maggie’s sloppies & to Carols’s uncle. And to any other loppies that need them.

Thanks for the latest chapter, Geri. Really funny tonight, just what we all needed. Just hope we don’t all have nightmares about the sinister grey mist & the malevolent voice.

On the subject of “tasteful” accessories for Octoberfest, in keeping with the Knights theme, my scollop has a large collection of light-up swords (collected from various panto’s over the years) which I’m sure he would be happy to donate to the cause. These have the added advantage that, as well as flashing annoyingly and blocking peoples view, they also offer the potential to put someone’s eye out (well, they do the way my scollop waves them about anyway). Incidentally, my sloppy, who has been a “serious” theatre goer for more years than she cares to remember, loves the idea of loppy ears and is fully intending getting up for a boogie in the megamix when we go next month. So THWPPPTT (sound of me blowing a raspberry) to all those stuffy psuedo-loppies over on the forum. (Psuedo-loppies – sounds like an alien life form. “They’re Loppies Jim, but not as we know them”)

Ok, my brain’s turned to custard so I’m off to bed now. Sweet Meads all

It was lovely to see some familiar faces yesterday.
But my day didn't run smooth. Got to the studios nice and early towards the front of a small queue at around 12: 20. Everything was going swimmingly until that nice chap Martin? asked for id when showing him our priority ticket. Oh dear! the lady that had given us the ticket wasn't able to go, so no ID. We then faced being sent to the back of the queue. Between us we managed to cobble together enough non priority tickets to allow us in . Phew!!
Once in, it was ticket number order, mine was no 243, so we kept being asked to move down futher and further down the queue. All the late arrivals had precedence over us as we didn't have the right coloured wristband.
I have to tell you i was beginning to panic especially when told that yesterday was the biggest audience so far experienced at the AT show.
But it all ended well as everyone that wanted to get in got in!! i estimate that there must have been well over 200 of us. About 170 priority tickets and about 40 non priority at my last count!!

Then finished my day with a visit to Jo (curtesy of Ro who was trying to sell a couple of tickets) Needless to say that was the icing on the cake, the cherry on the top!!!
He was fantastic as always. The audience were on top form , up on their feet from the beginning of the megamix. I was sitting in the dress cirle (for the fist time) and when he comes up on the cherrypicker WOW he just seems sooo close and so smiley!!

Aftershow show was great, no youngsters screaming, so that was a bonus!! He was really cheerful. that lovelee smile of his worked his magic melt thud!!!

Ali B - haven't forgotten your photo but the stage loppies Email address is on my work computer and so far haven't managed to retrieve it. Had other things on my mind , I wonder what that could have been. Will Email you ASAP.

Geri - Another fabulous chapter, thankyou!

Carys - would love to have one of your fabulous projects of yesterday if possible, if i'm not too cheeky??

Shirley- thanks for sorting out the T shirts & raffle tickets.

To all Loppies good nightlee and sweet meads!!

Ploppy went to bed hours ago and I have caught up on this blog (new home) Good job he’s not here!!!! (Re snoring) Love the idea of anniversary dates. I could have an anniversary of the anniversary of my anniversary take- away (the night Lee won ADWD) I think I’ve had too much of the red stuff. (ha ha) Ploppy only had a small glass of wine but the funny thing is the bottle is empty! Will read old site tomorrow and also I have a few of Geri stories to catch up on.

Just like a few of you have said the stage- loppies have helped them smile when they have had sad times ,I’m glad that I found this site and that you all feel and act like friends .It’s so nice to come and escape from what real life often deals you . Sloppy is not to good at the moment but thanks for all your concern .Hope all other Loppie loved one’s that are not well are on the road to recovery

While you are all asleep the badge fairy has been busy creating again - perhaps you could vote for your favourite or leave a comment at the album (be gentle! lol) should get the badge making kit today and have also had a message from Sebastian who hopes to get the pics printed by the end of the week ..on to the badge http://public.fotki.com/CarysSigs/lee/fans.html

Forgot to mention that I am just doing something for Auds .....will be ready to post tomorrow probably:-)

Morning morning rise and shine, let me just move these three glass from my hand so I can help the BHB with the breakfast orders. Carys I like them all but think I prefer the single fan Stage Loppy version - that concludes the vote from the Hillingdon jury! Maggie - we weren't too sure you would appreciate Martin's comments re the snoring, but figured he was only jesting!!
The Cool - It - Company - you failed me in my hour of need! I wanted Emerald green!!!
OK better sneak away now before Ploppy catches me - see you all later!!!

Morning all -

Carol have you taken up juggling? What are you trying to do with those glasses???

I see the badge fairy has been busy - looking forward to seeing the designs later.

Diana and Karen C - thanks for those lovely reviews.

Lindsey and Maggie - Ohhmmms for small child with pooly paw and for sloppy.

Morning all. Good to be home again in my own bed. Slept rather well, so LII is slowly slipping away.
Hello swetheart. Lovely to see you. You've missed me? AaaaWWWWW ! Let's give you a smacker! That's what Geri says I'm good at!
I almost forgot: HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!!!! No, I'm as sane as I'll ever be. It's the Chinese new year, and it's the year of the rat!,- hence the appearance of Roland. I'm off to my acupuncturist this morning, so I'll have to remember to wish him and his wife happy new year.
I just had an e-mail from my eldest nephew. He has gone skiing in Utah, USA ! As his mother said to me on the phone the other day,- why does he want to gi there when there is snow 3 meters deep only 30 minutes drive up in the mountains at home? I gently reminded her taht the grass is always greener, or in his case, the snow is always whiter on the other side of the pond!!!
Carys,- I had a hard time deciding which badge I like best. I think the one with one large and thre small fans is my favourite.
As I said earlier, I'm off to have acupuncture and massage this morning, and then I'm taking my old man Syd out for lunch. He is 96 today !
I'll se you all later.

I meant to say I'll congratulate the acupuncturist and his wife, not Roland ( and his wife?).

Carys - the vote from Strawberry Shortcake goes to image number 48 please.

Lindsey, you had me LOL. Loving the illuminated swords. And opening up all the possibilities of adding injuries to innocent bystanders to our list of transgressions.

Diana and Karen C. What a lovely surprise to wake up to. More reviews. Oh how exciting to be there when things malfunction. Must have made it difficult for people on specific trains if the show ran so late though.

I would like to express my appreciation for the speedy and efficient service provided by The Cool-it Company. My magnificent PINK megasized cooling system was installed last night and as a result I slept like a baby. (Do babies really sleep that well?? Maybe I should say I slept like an aged dog. They most assuredly do sleep well.) Should you ever need a testamonial for your excellent service I will be happy to provide one.

Jenny glad you have been able to get a ticket for 18 October. Should be a night to remember - all of us laughing through our tears. You will have noticed by now that we are really going for the classy and smart look, as usual!!!

Hi Maggie - welcome home - hope your Sloppy continues to improve. I fear the caring role that is being landed onto so many of our little group is typical of what is happening to (mainly) ladies across the country. Having provided home care both for my County Council, and privately, for a long time that is a soap box I could bore for England on. So I wont.

Enjoy your drinks Carol. And I hope that notquiteoveritloppy - given that she became floppy last time does she now become our first itloppy? - Your time will come Auds, and hopefully no sooner rather than later!!!!

Good morning BHB. Having an exciting time in your evening job are you. Props letting you down?? (Does he work in a pit????) My usual large Earl Grey please, and a nice slice of hot buttered toast. Made with some of our lovely homemade bread of course. Yummy

OK back again and time to read through properly!! Thanks for the reviews D & KC, you wuold have thought they had managed to sort out the revolve by now.......it must be a major fault if they couldn't fix it between the two performances! What happened to the sheep?? Lindsey love the idea of the swords - oh yes I do! Also the term "pseudo Loppies" - has a really nice ring to it!!! OOhhmms for those whose loved ones are poorly (including any of the four legged variety). Carys being a ditzy blonde didn't think to put a no. for my bag selection (duh!) it is No. 48, although No. 50 was a close run second! (By the way do you never sleep??). Just had a call from the Cool It Company and apparently my system should be installed by this evening ready for the next chapter in the saga! Jane E - no not juggling, just the ability not to spill a single drop (years of hard practice gone into perfecting this art!!). Oh well better crack on as they say - catch up later!

Hey, Eva, I'll stick pins in you for nothing!

I'll vote for badge #48, too, Carys. Wow!

Ah, BHB, sorry I'm late; had a rather nasty dream so I'm a bit at sixes and sevens this morning. Why, yes, a massage would definitely put me right. Breakfast? No, it can wait...

Geri,- I suddenly had a frightening thought: You said yesterday that I will love the next chapter and your plans for me there. Remembering I asked for some skin to kiss,- YOU ARE NOT GOING TO MAKE ME KISS NANA JEAN, are you ????????
You will have to do will the Eva doll I know you've got, for sticking pins in, Lepry !
I'm out of here.

Carys - #48 for me too please - clear & uncluttered.
Love the idea of the illuminated swords/cloaks and other view-obscuring devices. What about Viking helmets topped with Loppie ears just to add a bit of height to obscure even the tallest theatre-goers. The helmet horns could also help to put people's eyes out!
Geri - just loving the 'Tale' - brilliant

Morning all, thought I'd pop in and say hello before putting my hobnail boots on and trampling some small children!
Lyndsey, like the suggestion of swords, I know a good stockist of Light Sabres that may come in handy too!!!

Shirley, thanks for placing the M+S order, if you have no luck let me know what size they cannot supply I’ll look for something similar before I get it all to the printers; can’t have a loppy left out now can we? I’m not able to get into e-mail again this morning drat it! Feel quite lost without it, makes me realise how much I depend on all this electronic stuff!

Hi to Maggie, I’m new, hopped on board a few weeks ago; nice to ‘meet’ you.

Pauline, sorry to hear your sloppy needs more surgery, I know its tough, just had similar news last weekend about my sloppy.
Is a loved one of a loppy a looaloppy? If so I’m sending lots of healing vibes to all ailing looaloppies.

Diana and Karen, thanks for the great reviews- will we get to see the fabulous picture on LMAS?

Just read last nights chapter Geri and wish I’d stayed up just a little longer to read before bed! Think I may need to place an order with the cooling company.

Like the badges Carys.

Ok boots on, off to trample!

Pauline2 & Deanna, hope your sloppy's are on the mend.

Forgot to mention the sheep so thanks for the reminder, Carol. No multi coloured sheep last night. The brothers carried the white sheep used to smear Joseph's coat. However, the sheep bones at the end did make their usual appearance. I thought that anyone who hadn't seen the show before wouldn't have fully got that bit.

Thanks for the latest, Geri. Will read it later.

Another vote for #48 Carys!
Lindsey I loved that "they're loppies Jim, but not as we know them"
Off to finish scollop's costume for tomorrow, we settled on the phantom of the opera, not Joseph I know, but manageable in the time scale! Went to get his passport photo taken yesterday and had to prise the mask off him, don't think they'd accept it do you?

OH yes Shirley 2 - Viking Helmets!! I have one in the loft from a skit we did at one of our Review Shows! So, to recap, we have the Viking Helmets, with horns especially sharpened, tastefully topped with 3ft Flashing Ears. We have large (extra large) light flashing swords, we have large capes, THUD Tee shirts - could these be modified to make the hearts flash? Extra large banners, broomsticks and now hobnail boots - have I missed anything??

Gosh what a busy night, you go to bed early....
first thanks for your good wishes for my Sloppy. They help a lot.
Fantastic reviews, love the idea of actors being camel annd snake etc.!
Cool It Company thankyou for your prompt delivery of my multicoloured unit. It really came into its own last night as I woke up in a bit of a sweat but it cooled me beautifully, now what made me dream that I wonder?
Loving the light sabres and helmets. I think cloaks should be added in bright shiny colours to distract and hit people as swung around. I also noticed no footwear mentioned, perhaps Debbie could supply high heeled pink fluffy slippers?
Carys love no48 and 50 well all of them actually so I'm happy to go with the majority.
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm an extra long one for all who need it, sorry if I've missed anything but am late today and RL is calling me.
N.B. must move on from trampling children, think I'll try pushing the elderly over today, see if it's as much fun.

Sorry missed the hobnail boots, maybe they could be used after show and slippers during?

Peeking in on a break from the essay to say you all forgot the most important crowd dispersal ingredient: eau de CO!

, I have some luminous pink strawberry socks, I think they would look a treat with the pink fluffy slippers.
I am sending my good wishes today for all of you with poorly relatives, I know how worrying it is when your loved ones are poorly.
Carys I haven't had time to look at the badges apologies, but will go with the majority.

That should have read, luminous pink socks with strawberrys on the. I wore them to AT in honour of the 40th Birthday Girl.

OK - that's Debbit's pink fluffies during the actual show then, hobnails for the SCRUM as I see it is now called. Jill - I think the pink socks will go equally well with both, and of course the Eau de CO supplied by Stinkers Inc - the final secret weapon - known to stop wild animals in their tracks at 40 paces! Clocks in bright colours of your choice (pink and orange and emerald green and gold and lilac and purple and mauve and turquoise and blue and etc. etc). Pastel shades not accepted!

Oops - just got stopped posting whilst they checked for "malicious content" - as if!! Realised I typed clocks instead of cloaks - but it paints a pretty picture doesn't it - there we will all be with large brightly coloured grandfather clocks under our arms - hey we could stand them next to us so no-one would be able to see anything at all!!

Just spat out my coffee Carol picturing the coloured grandfather clocks next to every Loppie....

Having a great giggle here visualising the loppy brigade marching up The Strand in full rig-out.

The only bit that seems missing is skirt/trousers, would a loin cloth be going too far??

Oh so love the idea of clocks! Was going to suggest those novelty bowties that flash and spin round, or would that be a bit over the top?

Perhaps not a loin cloth but multi coloured greek togas??? Oh yes, flashing bow ties too!! I think one of the artists amongst you (notice I don't say us) could do a nice picture of the finished ensemble????

Afternoon!! Been really busy at work!! Nearly spat my cup-a-soup out all over the computer keyboard at the sheath bit - thanks Geri!! This is interesting -

http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/movies/a88748/close-streisand-in-line-for-sunset-remake.html

Request has gone to printer for flashing hearts!

Agree with Carol - would love to see a picture of the finished ensemble, unfortunately I'm not that talented.

Irish Independent discussing the Olivier Awards & quote WOS ed. expressing surpise that Lee wasn't nominated:
http://www.independent.ie/entertainment/news-gossip/hairspray-ahead-of-the-rest-for-top-awards-1283808.html

Cary’s, may I just ask if the words on number 48 are going to be that way or are they going up and round the top of the badge?
To add to our attire for the march of the Loppies on the west end how about flashing earring (must have my earring darling -going to the west end you know)
If possible could I please have OOOOHHHHMMMMMMM for number one Scollop, because he has an interview for a new job today at 3.30 .Right just going to find out how Sir Lee has been doing while I was away?

Of course Maggie, one super duper OHM coming up,oooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmmmm.
Thanks for the links, I have a feeling the Oliviers might not approve of the TV connection, as it seems churlish that Joseph isn't nominated in best musical revival, let alone not nominating Lee grrrrr.
Now who were you thinking of for the male lead in that AliB???
Wish I was a talented artist! Unfortunately no.

Now really ladies. This is getting silly. Flashing bowties. How tacky. Will spoil the effect of our carefully crafted outfits. But YES YES YES to Maggie's flashy dangly earrings. I mean if the flashing ears are up on the horns of the helmet that leaves an area between that and our shoulders people might just be able to glimpse the stage through. Flashing earring should help mess up that view too.

And multicoloured grandfather clocks. If we try hard we can make sure that non of them chime as quite the same time - so given the number of us there we can have a constant cacophany of noise for bells and chimes - so not only will noone be able to glimpse the stage but noone will be able to hear anything either.

Oh and Maggie, lots of OOOOHHHHHMMNMSSSS for your scallop. Let us know how he gets on??

Yes to the earrings but will have to be clip ons! Have some flashing Christmas Tree once, but they aren't the right season! Maggie lots of oooohhhhhhmmmmmmmms for Scallop, as well as crossed fingers!!
Like the thought of the clocks going off at different times - inspired!

Carys, I like the look of all the badges but my favourite in no.51.

Pauline I do like the idea of us all marching along the Strand swishing cloaks (plus all the other accoutrements mentioned) sweeping small children, ancient pensioners and tourists into the gutter as we pass.

Oooohms for your scollop Maggie for the interview, horrible things.

I've just read last night's story. Not a good idea to read that chapter in particular at the office with colleagues close by, nor when drinking at the same time!! Brilliant, Geri.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3e8X2esM_s

Oh I so love this one, link featured on LMAS Review page. See you all later(waves and gone).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3e8X2esM_s

Oh I so love this one, link featured on LMAS Review page. See you all later(waves and gone).

I'll be there in my national costume, ladies. Helmet, horns and sword at the ready!
On another note I'm just back from what should have been a nice Birthday lunch for Syd's 96th birthday, and instead I'm back home so angry I could spit! The woman who "shares" Syd with me, brought a friend with her who needed cheering up, because her partner had left her. Great for a birthday party! The woman, who I don't know and Syd don't know, straight away went into an attack on Lee Mead!!!! She had been told that I was an avid fan, and thought it her duty to tell me that she didn't approve of "reality shows" or the people who parttook of same. Consequently she told me that she didn't like Lee Mead! I was totally flabbergasted by this attack, and asked if she had ever seen him perform ?,- no, she hadn't. Had she ever heard him sing?,- no, she hadn't. Syd then butted in and said that Lee was a lovely man (he said boy) with a wonderful voice, and she shouldn't talk badly about something she knew nothing about!!! Some Sloppies are stars! I gave him a kiss for that one. The woman realised she was on to a lost cause, and then started on her husband who had left her! Who bl***y cares? She kept going on this subject through the starters and the main course, and I had had enough, so I got up to pay. She didn't offer to pay for herself, and I told her in no uncertain terms that she had not been invited by me, and I had no intention of paying for someone who had insulted my hero!!!! She wasn't too pleased about that. When I took Syd home, I apologized for a spoiled lunch, but he said not to worry. He is hard of hearing, so he hadn't heeard half of what she had been saying anyway!!!
Coming home in a very bad mood, wanting to kick something, I opened my e-mails, and there was this lovely mail from Anne Grete, my friend in Spain, to whom I'd sent the latest of Gillians DVDs. I have translated word for word what she wrote:
"I have been enjoying the DVDs with your prince (!), and he is gorgeous,- just gorgeous!. Fantastic voice, but such a lovely personality too. I am sure that counted when he won everybodys' hearts. A bit shy, handsome and soooo nice. He seems almost unaware of his handsome looks, and he has a natural beauty and gentle behaviour. Thank you for letting me get to know him properly. Now I want to come to England and see him in the theatre too."
Is it any wonder I love her to bits?
Feeling a bit better now.

A short piece continued from last night's chapter. Don't worry, there'll be more later.

Maeve, I'm seeing Monty Python's old ladies beating up unsuspecting teenagers in your scenario. By the way, just received your square. I'll see if I can get it into the picture depending on how tightly framed the finished job is, ditto yours, Shirley.

Chap. 16 continued:

Lee shivered as the temperature in the hall dropped sharply. He heard an intake of breath but he was too transfixed by the evil swirling mist that floated into the room to pay much heed. He had forgotten the sword in his hand, until his arm raised, almost of its own accord, and he threw himself at the noisome creature.
One of the loppies screamed and he knew only that he must protect them at all costs. The Evil Aus enveloped him in a foul odour and it made him gag. He could not see in the darkness which wrapped around him like a living thing. The only thing he could see was the sword, it glowed with a soft golden light and seemed pure in the midst of such evil.
Aus wasn’t going to stand still and fight, though. Seeing the sword in the determined young knight’s hand, he gave a loud “Eek!” and fled around the room, knocking over potted plants, stumbling over repulsed loppies, and, finally, tripping over Jack-in-the-Green’s long leafy tail. He landed with a splat and lay upon the floor cowering. Lee stood over him, golden sword raised and prepared to strike.
“Eek!” Aus screamed again. “I put my curse on you, boy,” he hissed. “That no one will know you or recognise your face—“ but suddenly a bright flash cut through the air and something hard struck Lee on the back of the head. The knight fell to the ground and knew no more.

Maggie - Ohhhhhmmmmmmms for scollop, hope it goes well for him.

Eva - love how you dealt with friend's friend. My BiL's MiL is like that (the not offering to pay). Last summer BiL and my niece stayed with us for a week then SiL and her mother joined us for the BH weekend. Not once did her mother offer to pay for anything or contribute towards food shopping. Not that it surprised us as she's always been like that, but it's infuriating just the same. Anyway, your lovely friend's email seems to have restored your spirits.

So, what's all this - are we mounting another Charge of the Loppy Brigade? Count me in for all things flashy and, being of rather small stature and if there's a loppy strong enough, I'll gladly be hoisted up onto someone's shoulders in the name of blocking the view of those behind! Let me know if you want any glo-sticks, I might be able to get my hands on some, in various colours of course!

Just got back from the chiropractor and what do I find? a part chapter from Geri, and now she's knocked him out!!!!!! Rushes to first aid kit, hold on I'm coming Sir Lee, fear not.
Eva sounds to me that stupid woman(hope you don't mind me calling her that?) is just full of hate for the entire male race!! Must be not to appreciate the GO enough even to watch him, no taste some people!

Geri - quick he needs some alcohol to revive him!!! Let me through!!!
Eva - I bet she's a CO fan too! How dare she!!! And then to admit she hadn't heard or seen him - I think you were very restrained in your response, and your Sid sounds lovely! Maggie it's 3.30 so I am oooohhhhhmmmmmmmmming like mad!

Geri just caught up on Sir Lee’s adventures and then have just read the next part .Poor Sir LEE - Oooooohhhhhhhmmmmmmmmmmm for Sir Lee. Am enjoying this so much I might go and buy a book (I don’t read)but your stories has made me think what have I been missing out on.
Thank you on for all the ooohhmmm for Scollop .If he gets this job he will save £150 a month in petrol money and it will be in Bury ST Edmunds (our town )instead of travelling to Cambridge every day.
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHHHMMMMMMMM to Scollop

Flashing hair braids? http://www.glow-sticks.org/subcat/Flashing-Headwear/Flashing-Hair-Braids.html

Maggie, lots of ohhhhhhmmmmmms for scallop (not to mention all the other poorly or unhappy ones in our midst.) And speaking of unhappy, Eva, that woman is obviously a lop-less wonder and not worthy of your time or attention.

OMG don't know whether to laugh or cry.
Cry because poor Sir LEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
and I nearly fell off my chair laughing at the thought of "clocks of many colours"

Wow Maeve - we must really all think alike, I was saying that earlier too about the Loppy Brigage marching along The Strand, what a sight that would be!

Stand back please, qualified first aider here!

For Sir Lee of course, I'll send someone else to pick upthe injured from the strand! Maeve you wild thing!

Eva, I admire the way you asserted yourself with that very rude lady. well done!

Another loppy loving the idea of us all at the Adelphi with nice coloured clocks next to us. Lots of laughing out loud in the office to the suggestions as to subtle loppywear for upcoming visits.

Geri how many more chapters? I'm away for 10 days from Sunday and I fear I'm not going to get to the end by then am I? Lets hope there is internet where I'm going.

Eva poor Syd's birthday lunch sounded terrible. I liked the way you dealt with it.

Love the flashing braids Maggie!!! Now Sue - back girl, back! I am administering medicinal alcohol here!!

Sorry Vali - missed you then (waves!!).

Derh, why is the Scrum now called Jill?????????????

Carol, will you please stop trying to pour gin down Sir Lees throat! that wasn't mentioned in my training!!! I need to cradle his head and nurse his wounds.

Hello Debbie,- knew you would pop in sooner or later.

OMG Eva, how did you restrain yourself from not 'clocking' that friend of a friend on the nose? How very dare she speak of what she know's not? Our dear, beautiful, talented GO and now what have you done to him Geri?

I know you've mentioned the dire Irish postal service before but really! I posted that blooming square in the first week (I'm almost certain) of Jan., did it drop into The Irish Sea en route?

Eva, my first thought when I was reading about poor Syd's birthday lunch was that her (ex) husband has my full sympathy. And that from an avowed feminist.

Maggie, I HAVE to have some of those flashing hair braids. Takes classy to a whole other level. Oh yes.

Thanks Geri, I think...... For knocking Sir Lee out??? What are you doing to us woman???? Stand back ladies, don't crowd him. Strecher bearer coming through

Any news on your Scallop Maggie??

And SueX if the injured on the Strand are who I think they are - GO MAEVE - they can shift for themselves

Shirley,- as you can guess that was my reaction too. I'm sure he thinks himself lucky! Would you beleive that they asked me if I would come to London with them and see "Mama Mia"? I said I had other plays I wanted to see. Wasn't that diplomatic?
If we are going to do a full frontal Loppy Brigade Charge on 18th October, we have plenty of time to organize it. Those "pseudo" Loppies won't know what hit them. We have taken others by surprise before !

Chapter Seventeen (part one)

He had a vague awareness that he was being carried through the darkness. Something was nagging at him, but he couldn’t figure out what it was. He struggled to wake up but his head pounded and he just wanted to sleep. There was a low murmur of voices, three he thought, and he vaguely recognised them but couldn’t grasp anything of substance. Strangely his sword was still in his hand, had somehow affixed itself to him. It had chosen him and would not let him go. That was oddly comforting.
The wind touched his skin like a caress and he had the impression he was outside; yes, that was the murmur of the trees. Where was he being taken? The sword seemed to be urging him to wake up, but he couldn’t. then he heard the sound of rushing waters and the need to regain his senses seemed urgent. He heard himself moan and tried to move, but it was too late. He found himself flying through the air and landed in the middle of the icy waters.

Well I come home and what do I find?? Geri's knocked poor Sir Lee out - Carol's trying to pour gin down his throat - Shirley carting round a stretcher. Really Suex - thank goodness there's a trained first aider on hand - but is that really where you check for a pulse?

Eva - what a nasty peice of work that woman was, sounds like she deliberatelt went out of her way to spoil lunch!

Maggie - are my Ohmmmms too late? never mind! Ohmm! Ohmm! Ohmm!

Ooo Alison - are you off on holiday?

Thank you stretcher bearer but this patient needs lots more attention from me before I can allow him to be moved - lots and Lots of attention!
You will notice I didn't say when I'd send help to the Strand!It may be a while....a very long while!

Don't worry -- there will be more of Ch. 17 later tonight.

Eva, full frontal loppies? -- my eyes! my eyes! There must be a better way of dealing with the lop-less monsters.

Yes, Maeve, I suspect there are Lee fans at the post office and they have to open each card in hopes of seeing a pic of the GO before they send it on to me. Cheeky monkeys!

Maggie, the brain is a bit addled with this psych lit review, but I wanted to thank you for that lovely compliment. That I should make you want to buy a (real) book is just about the nicest thing you could say. Make sure it's something wonderful -- I've no doubt we could all make recommendations.

Ey up, what's going on here then - Sir Lee prone and buried under a giggle of Loppies!! Amazing how many first aiders we seem to have on here all of a sudden. I was going to say that if we have changed tales and the Prandsome Hince needs awakening with a kiss from a frog I volunteer my services (may have got that wrong somewhere!!) but now you've gone and chucked him in icy water so I s'pose my services will no longer be required! Sulk!!

Quick Karen! Can you swim?

Oh no! Where has my lovely patient gone? I only turned away for a moment to talk to the stretcher bearer and he has disappeared.
Help!

Yes Jane, it is a scientific fact that the pulse is strong and easily located in that spot.

Jane - like a brick - do you have a cunning plan? Such as, you dive in and rescue him and bring him back to land where I'll give him the kiss of life - come om let me have a go, you've already massaged oil all over his body - oo think I need the fan again!!!!

I got it! I got it!
Dacing on Ice!!!!!!

Dacing???

I meant, of course, Dancing on Ice.

But then I read more carefully and I see it's icy waters... oh well. It was a very quick look (and I have to admit I don't like the sound of this so far.. knocked on the head, sticky sheaths, ... )

Have to leave the office now or I'll never get home to do a full catch up... will Chapter 17 be ready then.

Eva, I am very hurt that you could suggest I may be the stupidandthickwithnobrainloppy. That was LAST week. I think any number of loppies on here could qualify for that title quite honestly.

LURVE the fest outfit. I really must get a ticket for the 18th. Will search out my stilts from circus training days just to add to the atmos. I WILL get to the front of the scrum! Not sure if the pink fluffies will fit over the top comfortably but one can but try. Am on the case to find a supplier to cater for all loppies. Maybe Ann Summers? (not that I've ever frequented such a place of course).

Geri, like Sue I wish to find out how one gets a mention (again)in the Knights tale. It should read "As Sir Lee bobbed in the icy waters who should he see but a beautiful mermaid by the name of Debbit..."etc etc What do you reckon?

Splash - you will remember it was me who daily swam the channel for supplies of wine and cheese, so in I go. BH that is cold!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Quick wake up Sir Lee, we have to get you out of here - you will get hypothermia. A rope ladies, a rope....

Link to the new Steiff Joseph Bear thats coming out soon - the coat looks pretty good but he looks nothing like Lee so not for me I'm afraid - and have you seen the PRICE!!
http://www.beargarden.co.uk/product_details.php?id=6221&cat=0

A rope of Loppies maybe??