Questions please

I'm first, I'm first !!! Hurray!

Ooo thankyou Scott another new home! Lovely it is really very pretty. One day I will be first! Well probably not but never mind.

Oo that was good timing. Hi all, quick wave, busy day, must dash....

I just had to post that quickly as I didn't want to be pipped to the post.(Lord, I'm funny today!) I feel better AND worse after my treatment. Confusing? Of course not. The acupuncture as usual gave me new energy and pain relief, but the massage today was a deep one, so my shoulder which was very bad, is now hurting like h*ll! I know, I know, no pain, no gain, such a cliche,- but I can assure you that the way my shoulder is hurting now is no bl**dy cliche! I still have a smile on my face because I know it will be much better tomorrow.
Karen2,- when you see Lepry, tell her I'll send a very nice bath towel with her when she goes to the beach!
So the bird was a falcon! When I saw it I thought it was sitting at the feet of Rave, so it was surely a raven! pauline2, as you say sometimes we make things more complicated than neccesary.
I'd better start on my lunch, or it will be tea!

Scott dear,- thank you for a new home. The old one was getting very slow moving. Inviting us to send questions to you and Zoe? I'll put my thinking cap on.

Scot dear - thank you for the new home. Like Karen this is a quick hello and goodbye - want to be able to leave at 4pm today!!

Thank you for our new home, Scott.

Friday pm and a long weekend ahead - lovely. Pity the forecast's not too good but got lots to do so there'll be no temptation to laze outside. Tomorrow looks the best day by far so I'd better do the weeding then - haven't done any this year!

The reviews of the latest Indiana film are pretty good so want to see that. I remember being taken to Raiders by my then boyfriend, not knowing anything about the film and thoroughly enjoying it.

Only another 20 mins for you, Carol.

Ooo thanks for our new home Scott! (What a lovely landlord!)

For those wondering the 'Maltese' bit of the clue was the Maltese cross above the bird.

Rave is the Loppy with the blue and gold collar Eva, the falcon is under Karen's chair. (Hi Karen - bye Karen. Hi Carol - bye Carol!)

Well Friday night is pub night, so bye until tomorrow!

OHMMS for anyone needing them!

just popping in to bookmark our new home - thanks Scott! I can understand you not wanting the questions left here.....they will likely get lost in our ramblings..lol gorgeous day here just got back from the beach.

Back from my afternoon snooze. After a treatment of acupuncture and massage the snooze is always good, and the shoulder already feels better.
JaneE,- thank you for setting me straight about the birds. Shows how much I know about the species!
I know the weather forecasts are bad for the weekend, with supposedly lots of rain, but my poor plants are gasping for a drink, so I'd better get myself outside and use the hose.

Hi Scott, thanks for our new home. The new big box thingy is certainly creating some lovely stylish homes for us all.

Feeling much better today, but still very tired, which was why I stopped in the service area in the first place. The insurance company have been so lovely. They are certain I could not have even nudged this guy's car without feeling it - which is what I was saying. And the damage this guy was showing me that I had supposedly done to his car was so miniscule. Anyway they will contest it if he tries to make a claim. Ploppy thinks he was probably trying for me to make him a cash offer to try and avoid telling my husband or the insurers. I just thought he was going to subsequently claim to the insurers that I had done something major to his car - hence taking the photos. Ploppy was flying so chatted to Finn who cheered me up no end, and then had a text from him to say they were sat in the plane on the runway while a wheel on the landing gear was changed, so I rang him too.

And then today, had a very different day. As I say still cross eyed with exhaustion, no idea why, but my window cleaner came back as promised and put 2 swallow and 1 swift nest boxes up under the eaves, and bless him he would only take £10 for doing it. And then when my nail technician came to 'do' me she had bought me a bunch of fressias - because it was Friday and because she felt like it. How kind is that. And finally I had been looking for a couple of good stalls tickets for 7 June for Claire and myself. There are a couple on ebay closing on 28th puchased from Albermarle so thought I would try Albermarle myself and they had 2 E18 and 19. So I got them. YYYYAAAAYYYYY. Then had a lovely sleep this afternoon so liking today much more.

Everyone who is away for the weekend - hope you have a fabulous time

Hi Eva, hope you are feeling a lot better now, and yes dry as a bone here too and I have the sprinkler going. Everything was wilting.

Ah HA - - found you. That’s for the nice new home Scott Dear. Can’t believe in only 8 days there’ll be a Nancy!! And I’m hardly bothered at all.

Disaster – went to the hairdressers yesterday (still being very patience with the growing of the hair…) to get a trim and ended up with the worst haircut I’ve ever had! AND he was recommended!! So the next time you see me I’ll be back to my short back and sides again – I’m going to have it remedied tomorrow (I hope) and highlighted.

There certainly was a Giggle (JaneE - surely we’re not Gossipers?) of Loppies in the latest chapter. You’ll have to do a ‘LtoR’ on you pics… I think I’ve worked out 8 plus the 3 Kar’ns…. And what is Yorkshire Karen sitting on? Or is that part of the Maltese Falcon clue (i.e. a Book)? Or just a cushion like I see I’m sitting on (it’s not me is it who’s stolen the coat and using it as a cushion??) Got the SH book immediately of course – and haven’t the slightest idea about the more obscure one – I although though about Lady of the Lake (or something like that) but then I remembered ‘colours’…and was going to read it again, got sidetracked so will have to wait till I get home now – and sit down with a large G&T. So I’ll see y’all later.

Whew! that was a day and a half. Didnt leave until 4.15, but I'm home!! Just had time for a quick scan of the blogs and the story of course - not seen the piccie yet but of course SH leapt out. Aunty Eva there was a Philip Marlow book called "The Lady in the Lake" I think. Will reread later and see if inspiration strikes me down. Off to choir practice in an hour so need to sort the music out! So this was another quick hello and goodbye!

There's a Raymond Chandler called 'The Lady in the Lake',or how about 'The Outside Man' by Richard North Patterson or
'Pale Kings and Princes' by Robert B Parker?
See I can goggle too Shirley!

Phew, Carol - same here - what a day!! I am on holiday from work next week but looks like I will be spending a good part of it working from home. Grrrrr!!!!!!

Another great chapter Geri. And Jane - wow, that picture is fantastic. It must have taken ages!! I love that the Kar'ns speak in unison and Karen2 has her hand on my shoulder! Nice touch from both of you talented loppies!!

Eva - how come you didn't recognise me. Tut!!!

Karen2 and Geri should be well into their drinks by now. Hope you both have a good time.

And talking of drinks, it's about that time!!

OOOH Geri - quick, quick, Hound of the Baskervilles. Do you think anyone else will get it :)

Just watched last weeks episoode of Dr Who ( i know I know behind the times thats me) - DT and 1920's and a mystery - perfect combination.

Off out to pub now - its friday here too jane E:)

Evening all, Shirley that sounds as though you had a real nasty bit of work to deal with, glad you stood up to him and (raspberry) to him. Also glad today was a better day, and great you got the Jo tickets.

Maeve I was so impressed by all those titles, and then you'd goggled them! Well when in doubt. Admit I thought it was RC book, but I guess the Dublops are otherwise occupied at the moment and we'll find out later!

Auds, you are obviously meant to have short hair, how irritating though. Before I found the guy that now cuts my hair I had many such disasters, and ended up with short hair. I've told my guy he can never retire!

Back from 2 nights out. Sorry I missed your birthday Pauline so HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!

The Comedy Store was great, I was nearly crying with laughter. It was just like Who's Line is it Anyway. Very clever.

Just picked my youngest up from 5 days school trip to the Isle of Wight. I nearly walked past her as she had her hair clipped back and tied up - unheard of! The teachers managed to get her to do something I never could. I can see both halves of her face for the first time in 3 years. Astonishing.

Like the sound of the haircut from hell Auds. Maybe the 'friend' who recommended them has a grudge against you, ever thought about that?

Off to the in-laws for the weekend in Folkestone - I'll give you a wave Eva.

Thanks for the new page again Scott.

Better go and cook tea for my starving child.

Btw, how does this leave a comment thing work? I keep having to put in my name, e-mail address and characters every time. It doesn't remember me, boo hoo.

Maybe for once I'm right,- about The Lady In The Lake, I mean.
Geri,- empty that glass, stop drinking, get yourself home and TELL ME I'M RIGHT!
Auds,- my hairdresser has a mind of her own too. I tell her, short at the back and the side, keep it long at the top......and every time I end up with: short at the back and the sides AND at the top, so my hair is sticking up for 3 weeks, looks OK for 2 weeks, then it's back for another haircut and round and round we go. They never listen to you, because they know so much better.
Debbie,- if you're coming to my area on Sunday, bring your Wellies, brolly and raincoat. In other words,- it's going to chuck down!
Shirley,- so pleased you're feeling better today. Sometimes life has a way of righting wrongs all by itself.
Scott dear,- I suppose the pod cast is only for questions about IDA. Could we ask about GO, how lovely was he, how gorgeous is he, how well does he sing in the morning, afternoon, night...always ? No,- I didn't think so.

Scott-Thank you for our new home. And of course we didn't mind testing the new big boxy thing to see how many comments it could take without slowing down. You can use us for testing your blog anytime.
I too had a little nap this afternoon, could get used to it. Had a lovely ride this morning with 4 people who could actually ride. A novelty for me as I normally do the beginners.
I have a phobia where hairdressers are concerned, so I never go. From the tales today, I think I'm right.

Shirley - glad that you're OK after that 'nudge'. And really really pleased you've managed to get tickets for the 7th. Really pleased.
OK - had my G&T (or two), read the story more thoroughly ... uuuummm, no, don't know the other book. But, I think I have all but two of the Loppies now in the latest picture JaneE - who is in between Sioux and Christmas? And who is that between Odds and Carry-s?
The Tapestries - yes! I've sussed it - I did like you said JaneE and referred to AKWD..
Martin/Maggie, hope all is well with you and yours.

I'm home, loppies. Very tired from a long day at work, but nothing to do with the wine or the pasta, of course. Only skimmed the blog so sorry if I'm ignoring anyone. I did gather most of you got The Hound of the Baskervilles, but no one got the more difficult book. Here's a hint: re-read the sentence about the biggest, baddest archenemy, think synonym and a VERY famous mystery writer (more recent than Conan Doyle, but not contemporary. WHO, did you say?) Yes, you'll get it now.

Thanks for the new digs, Scott. Very nice of you not to raise the rent though we've been residing here for about a year now. Amazing, isn't it? Did you really think we'd all hang in there so long?

Eva, missed what you're babbling about so -- tell you you're right about what?

Back from choir practice and just reading through all hte comments - loved the picture Graphics Department! Karen I did manage a large glass of wine lunchtime, just about saw me through the afternoon. Joined Auds in an G&T! Shirley glad it was nothing too serious, and that you are feeling better. Debbie - did you tick the "remember personal info" box?? Hope the Dubln Loppies have had a good time! Just going to see if I can work out who is next to me....

Hi Debbie, long time since I sorted out the pencil thing, but as I remember you click on sign in, then choose which one you want, most of us used the pencil or live journal and sort of take it from there! Sorry I'm not more help but I know JaneE did have instructions, so maybe she can be more help! Thanks for the birthday wishes by the way.

OK Geri, that has to be the sainted Agatha Christie. I will Google for the book in the morning. Just too tired now.

Goodnight everyone and sleep well.

Debbie
For a pencil try this link
https://www.livejournal.com/create.bml

Debbie for Openid account try
https://www.myopenid.com/signup

Glad you're OK, Shirley. Horrible experience.

What a pain, Karen. Trust you'll get extra holiday in lieu.

Jane, Karen's comment reminded me I was going to ask how long it takes you on average to draw a picture? Today's of the Council is so detailed.

I've been experimenting with the V+ box tonight to see how it works. Seems very simple but think I'll also set the video for IDA tomorrow and Sunday in case Lee's on to be on the safe side, especially as we're out Sunday night.

Scott has some more fans over on DS http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=791852

Have a good weekend all and sleep tight.

Hi Geri is is Nemesis by AC?? Off to bed now - Sweet Meads all.

Right going to watch JR then bed.

Sleep tight people, night night

Thanks everyone. I'll try out your suggestions.

Off to watch The Osmonds on JR. I used to like Wayne best for some reason. I was a strange child....

Well done, Carol -- you are on a roll lately.

Bedtime for me. 'Night all.

I was going to say it must be "A Sleeping Murder" because the almost victim came back from Australia, but I see I was wrong with that too.
Good night all, sleep tight, have wonderful dreams and wake up happy.

Hi Everyone
home now, had a great loppy time with Geri and our lovely waiter David. Nice couple of drinks after a long week and good food too, although they didn't have the dessert we both wanted - comfort food eh Geri?

Settling down now to watch the Osmonds on JRoss, I understand from Karen that it's over already on your BBC.
Just want Donny to talk about Lee, is that too much to ask?

Karen2 good time eh?

Nightlee night

Yes thanks Jo, goodnight

Hi Debbie - hope you've got your pencil sorted out, when you get it, watch out, there's loppies here who have a tendency to "borrow" pencils!

Can't believe you were at the Comedy store, where is it actually? I watch it on tv and there's often really good comics on.

Part 4

As the saying goes 'tomorrow is another day' so on with tomorrow! lol

Having not slept all night I did not welcome the alarm going off but I knew I had to get going and sort my belongings ready to leave at the left luggage room - I had places to go, people to meet etc!

Downstairs I went and there were Chantele and Carole and we found our way to the breakfast room - yummmm can recommend the croissants. Loads to eat , full English and no limits...Very nice waitress took our pictures when she noticed our cameras. Then I waited in the lobby and after a while Ringer appeared. She told me she had missed out on touristy things on her last visit so we headed out to see what we could find. First stop Trafalgar Square and a quick visit to the National Gallery for some culture. Then along to Horseguards Parade and we were lucky enough to find that a practice for Trooping the Colour was in progress so we saw a band, some Welsh Guards and a few Lifeguards parading along The Mall. We followed them down to Buckingham Palace.

Then it was time to head back to The Strand to meet Shirley. My visit was going very well - everyone I had hoped to meet turned up, it would have been very different on my own so thank you everyone! Then we headed for the Stage Door - would we see him?? There was a group of ladies waiting for Dean and one had an autograph book...how remiss of me! all I had were my GO pics....couldn't really ask other cast members to sign them....lol James was really friendly and had a nice chat.

Time was passing. Two o'clock came and went - no Dean no Lee! It was busy there with delivery vans and all sorts - even a photographer but he was only there to take a shot of the Stage Door.....believe it or not for a series of postcards of stage doors! lol Then suddenly I saw him - that familiar head of curls bouncing up the street, bag on shoulder and film star shades. He was obviously in a hurry and as he approached we got a smile and a Hello but he had no time to chat and disappeared inside. What joy to find I had captured the smile in my snatched photo.

Not long til the matinee so we grabbed a quick pizza nearby , said goodbye to Shirley, and headed to the theatre ...yes I was going again! I will tell you about the matinee in part 5! .......

I think I have solved the other mystery in Geri's story - the author is of course Agatha Christie - but which story - I'll try one with a colour The Man in the Brown suit (just because Edward Woodward was in the film...lol)

Morning all, and a nice fresh morning it is too. The w***ing is blowing on the line. The birds are tweeting. The cats are eating their breakfast and the dog is looking for seconds.
I'll just have a quick dc and a fruit platter. Thank you. Oh, you have a busy day today as well do you. Have to work in the afternoon in your other job as well as the evening? Oh well, it's good to be busy.

Carys, thanks for part 4. Looking forward to part 5.

psst, be careful today, don't be fooled by 'I've got a new soft blanket'.
Take care all.

Morning all. Yes, a lovely day at the beach. Like Jo4's, my w*****g is "blowing in the wind" (do I get points for that reference?), the birds are in full swing and I'm ready for the day to start.
Hello sweetheart. You've already been on the beach with Jo4? It's lovely, isn't it? Dc at this time of the morning, Jo4? Uuugghhh! My usual leaded, please and a croissant. I'll keep you safe from Pauline2 and her blanket today, I promise. You were almost suffocated yesterday, because it was so hot? Well, just don't take any nonsense from her today. It's T-shirt or bare chest weather today. You'll go with the bare chest? Yes, pleeeeeaaaase! (I'm glad there is a slight wind blowing. Phew!)
Carys,- you certainly packed a lot into your days in London, but really,- you and Ringer stalking The Welsh Guard?????? Looking forward to installment no 5.

I just sent the picture for today's chapter to Martin -- thanks, Martin. Just one mystery novel today; I don't think it's too hard.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

“Good morning,” the white haired man said, as soon as he had climbed out of a dazzling maroon horseless carriage. “I’m Chief Inspector Terse. This is my colleague, Sergeant Boo-Hiss. Where’s the body?”

“Uh, body?” King Lee asked.

“I was told a crime had been committed,” the Chief Inspector said.

“Yes. My, uh, my coat was stolen.”

The policeman’s piercing blue eyes bulged ever so slightly. “I beg your pardon?” he asked, with the sort of exaggerated manners the British do so well.

“It’s not just any coat,” King Lee said, suddenly feeling embarrassed.

“Ah, an antique,” said the Chief Inspector. “Take a note of that sergeant. What period? I’m rather partial to the Byzantine—“

“Uh, sir,” the sergeant interrupted. “Sorry to interrupt, but shouldn’t we get the details first?”

“Oh, all right, Boo-hiss. I was really looking forward to a corpse; you might say I had a taste for it.”

“Yes, sir,” the beleaguered sergeant said. “Now sir, what colour was this coat?”

“What colour?”

“Oh come along!” Terse said, uh, tersely. “Out with it, man! What colour? Was it red or yellow or green or brown?”

“Yes,” King Lee said.

“Yes to which?”

“Yes to all. The coat is red and yellow and green and brown and scarlet and black and ochre and peach and ruby and olive and violet and fawn and lilac and gold and chocolate and mauve and cream and crimson and silver and rose and azure and lemon and russet and grey and purple and white and pink and orange and red and yellow and green and brown and scarlet and black and ochre and peach and ruby and olive and violet and fawn and lilac and gold and chocolate and mauve and cream and crimson and silver and rose and azure and lemon and russet and grey and purple and white and pink and orange and blue.”

There was a long pause. Then Terse turned to his sergeant and said, “Did you get all that, Boo-hiss?”

“Uh, yes, I think so, sir,” Boo-hiss said.

“All right,” Terse said. “Tell me, Mr King, when did you last see your coat?”

“Last night before I went to bed,” King Lee said. “It was hanging in the wardrobe.”

“Is it valuable?”

“It’s—it’s priceless. It’s one of a kind.”

“Ahh!” Terse said. “I suppose that’s something. Who knew it was there?”

“Well, I did, and Dot and Gray’mm and the loppies, of course.”

Another pause then, “What is a loppy?”

Briefly, King Lee explained how Christmas’s friend had named the ladies who were his most devoted admirers as loppies and the name had gained renown throughout the land. “The loppies are as famous as I am,” the King said.

“Right,” Boo-hiss said, unimpressed. “And who’s this Gray’mm?”

Another lengthy explanation. For a full two minutes after the king had finished speaking the chief inspector was silent. At last he turned to his sergeant and said, “I need a pint!”

“Well, I’m sure you’ll want to talk to the loppies,” King Lee said. “You can have a nice glass of Mead while you’re there.”

“I don’t believe all this magic nonsense,” Terse said. “In my opinion it’s no more than a trick of reflective surfaces. All right. Mead, huh? Why can’t you have beer like a normal person? All right, all right. Is there anything else we need to know? Is anything else missing?”

“Only Diva,” King Lee said.

“A sorceress?”

“A loppy.”

“All right,” Terse said with a deep sigh. “You’d better take me to the loppies.”

“Don’t worry, sir,” Boo-hiss said. “I’m sure they’ll all be happy to help.”

Morning Geri - if we are sticking with AC is it They Do It with Mirrors??

...if not could possibly be A Morbid taste for bones by Ellis Peters.....
LOvely chapter as ever - glad you had a lovely time with KAren2 - it's good to refresh the little grey cells with incohol!! Hello BHB large mug of the ususal please - outside? No weather not looking too bright, so I'll have my breakfast inside today please. Something light for me - think I'll have the poached egg on toasted bagel with mushrooms a la Christmas on the side. Why are you looking over your shoulder? Oh you were looking for Pauline2 in case she arrived with the blanket? Tell you what I'll come into the kitchen with you and lend you a hand a keep you safe from the others... Morning Carys - my, talk about pack as much in as you can!! I had one of the pieces (now treasured) of white tissue trapped in my top when I got home from the show last time! They do look lovely in the lights I agree -perhaps there is a super noo-noo which picks them all up after the performances! Aunty Eva was Syd pleased to see you? Bet he was! Need you all to let me know about IDA as I will be performing again and miss it all, and Dr Who! By the way anyone who can't get to Stratford to see DT (like me) - they are bringing it to London later in the year - I've asked my friend at the RSC to let me know as soon as she hears any details about when as doubtless the tickets will be gone virtually as soon as they are offered! Two weeks today ladies!! Which in turn means three weeks to my hols - will doutless have lots of catching up to do on my return!!

Yipes, time is flying by this morning. Been record hunting. Looking for a spare of Daydream Believer. Discover that not only do I not have a spare, but I dont even have an original - its a Collectibles one. But I found loads of wonderful Cliff and Shadows originals. Cliff Richard the Hits - early 60s, even an original Move It 45. How could I, as a 27 year old, possibly have bought them???

Run, run, run, parcel to get into the post to Jo, card to Carys..... A nice tropical fruit smoothie to go I think please - why have you got goose bumps?? Eva stole your top?? EVA GIVE IT BACK. He'll only end up snuggled under Pauline's blanket you know!!!

Morning all

Thanks for part 4 Carys.

And thanks for another chapter Geri - love that you included all the colours of the coat.

Eva - I like the image of the bare chest but it's more blanket weather here today - overcast and chilly, Maybe I could share the blanket with the BHB and he can keep his bare chest!!! Compromise!! Works for me!!

Flying visit from again. Too many things going on at once at the moment. I haven't even read COD properly, but I have pasted them all into a word document for when I get a quiet moment.

Saw Joseph with scollop on Thursday but didn't make him stay for the scrum, pity as I understand it was quiet. Lee was great and scollop agreed, although Lee didn't quite make the note on 'land' at the end both times, so his voice isn't quite right yet. Going to the touring version in Woking this afternoon.

Good morning all!

Just had a text from She of the Red Wedding Dress - terrible news. Her sim card got damaged and she's lost all her pictures of our weekend in London including - gasp! The picture of the little mouse she rescued!

Ah Geri - what a giggle that chapter is! I looked for the book in it and thought I'd spotted a possible two - same two as Carol! You are really on a role Carol!

Glad Geri and Karen2 had a nice time yesterday. Did you have champers?

Shirley - glad you had a good day - you deserve after that hassle with the car.

Debbie - let me know if you need me to did out the getting a pencil instructions.

Carys - thanks for part 4, it sounds like you had a great time!

Jo4 - me too! Hairdressers - scary! Kind of explains why we both have long hair, really.

Eva - I think that not being able to identify the bird is more a refection on my drawing talent! It doesn't look very falcon like!

Diana - It's hard to be certain because I have to fit in drawing with whatever's going on - but I reckon the complicated ones would take four or so hours if I worked on them solidly. Usually it's spread over a couple of evenings.

OK Auds! Here are the Loppies in the gossiping Loppie drawing
Front row (seated)L to R - Carry S, Alley, Odds, Dutch.
Second row (standing) Miss Brodie (seated) Strawberry, Lady Luna, Kar'n the first.
Third row (Standing) Praline (seated in window seat) Rave, Magpie, Souix, Chill, Christmas, Fifi, (standing) Kar'n the Third and Kar'n the second.

Many appologies to the missing Loppies!

Morning all - yikes Carol you're quick.. I couldn't even guess the story today, not be a avid MM reader. Only likely to get really famous ones.
yes I know, it's a very big hat I'm wearing this a.m. BHB, and don't you dare laugh - it's just that, well, er .. the sun. Yes, the sun, it's very bright this morning isn't it and I need to protect my pale complexion!!
(hope that this next hairdresser leaves me more presentable - i'll let you know later...
OK, quick cuppa coffee, slice of toast, and I'm on my way.. can't linger today, lots to do before heading down to Fareham tomorrow.
You know, I wondered... with the Sir DonnO in town, d'ya think he'd pop in to see the GO? Or even into the story Geri?

Morning people, bright but very breezy here, however better make the most of it before the rains come! Feel very sorry for the carnival organisers. (Luton has a carnival each Whitsun BH)Last year it was so wet it had to be cancelled, and this year looks little better. I feel for all the children who spend ages on costumes and floats and get very excited. Having said all that I never go!! Anyway maybe they'll manage, we'll see.

Love the saga Carys, it's almost like having two stories running! Look forward to the next part.

Geri another fab chapter. As lots of others have had time can I say I agree with Carol (TDIWM) but also did see a possible reference to A Taste For Death, P D James' book. Are we getting to read something into every sentence now?!

Morning BHB, what are you doing running around without a top on? It's not that hot today, no, no. Come on I have my blanket and think we better get you nice and warm again. Oh what's that? Ah it's Karen, might have guessed it, now that's bettter isn't it? Well it is for me, and I think for Karen as well!

Morning Ladies
I see the braincells are being exercised again today, well done Geri. You-know-who saw my printout of a couple of chapters on the kitchen counter last night and exclaimed "there's another story - you didn't tell me!"

It's been dull and drizzly here so far (the weather I mean!) but the sun seems about to appear which I'm hoping for as my brother is having a family bbq today, very good of him, we wanted to do something today with my mum and then tonight there's an big soccer match, ireland/serbia, (sorry again Geri) for which I won 2 tickets in a raffle yesterday. I would happily go myself with PB but I'm sending my Dad instead as he never gets tickets to big games and it's such a thrill for him.

Thanks Jane for the line-up of names, I had honestly been going back and forward in that picture and picture 5, trying to figure everyone out, you made the Kar'ns quite easy to spot!

Geri I'm afraid I haven't got the synonym of the famous writer,but then I am not the brighest of the bunch.
Had a good and very busy week,one of the best thigs that happened was that a lad at the School I Invigilate at, is brilliant at Maths and won a Scholarship to Gordonstoun, but unless he could be offered a full Scholarship he would not have been able to go, On Friday he showed me the letter saying that they have awarded him a full Scholarship, not bad for a lad from a School that was under"Special Measures" 5 years ago, and he is such a lovely lad as well, we are all so thrilled for him.
The other piece of news is that yesterday a letter came marked from the BBC, I thought it was more tickets for "The Weakest Link" but to my suprise, it was tickets for the final of I'd Do Anything", so I am excited about going, luckily I am free that weekend, we seem to be busy soclially most weekends,
I did get tickets to see "The Weakest Link" on Tuesday afternoon, it was filmed at Pinewood Studios, so just up the road from me, it was an Apprentice special, really enjoyable, it will be interesting to see what they cut out, because it took about two and a half hours to record it, and on Thursday night we are going to see My Family being recorded again at Pinewood.
Have a good weekend everyone.

Sorry, I forgot there were two novels mentioned in this chapter: They Do It With Mirrors, and PD James' A Taste for Death, so well done, Carol & Pauline2.

I'm just up the road from Croke Park which is why Karen2 is commiserating about today's game. Lots of noise, rubbish and traffic.

Congrats on that ticket, Jill, we'll all be hoping there'll be a 'special guest' there of the dark and curly variety.

This morning I'm busily working on getting my clothes ready for my holiday in 9 sleeps. Did I mention..?

Another great instalment Geri.
There were an awful lot of colours in that coat, is that a clue?

That is very good news Carol about DT's Ham. I've ben hoping that it would be coming to London in Dec.. I'm on the RSC mailing list so get a few days advance booking.

Well done with those tickets Jill!

Well Gillian, you'll be in a good position to compare and contrast the two Jo's. I wonder which you'll prefer!

Geri, no dear you've not said anything about going away - where are you going to? Paris perhaps? (OK stop hitting me!)

So where's the BHB this morning? Do not tell me Pauline2 and Karen have got him again!

Jill,- you can put your working title down as Proffesional Audience soon! I'm impressed. How lovely to hear about the lad who got his full scholarship. It warms my heart when I hear about things like that.
Pauline2, Carol et all,- THERE IS NO NEED FOR A BLANKET !!! It's lovely and warm down here at the coast. A bit windy, yes, but BHB is a touch, young man, so he'll be fine.
Geri,- I only read today's chapter just now, and as I was reading, I made two comments: "A taste for it" and "reflective surfaces". They Do It With Mirrors was my first thought too, and since you say it's only one clue today, that must be it. I loved today's chapter. You really made Terse come alive as we knew and loved him!

Sorry, that should be tough, young man.
Geri,- now you say it's two clues! Well, at least I picked out the right two clues, even if I was too late. So tell me, what do you think about going for a swim every morning? Just kidding,- the boiler seem to have settled down again. Long may it last!

Eva there is always a need for the blanket! We do not want any more illness now do we. BHB is quite happy and we're looking after him beautifully promise.

Lucky you Jill, I think you may well get a guest appearance from you know who!

Meant to say Carol, I would be interested in Hamlet, if possible please.

Good luck at the hairdressers Auds.

Afternoon. Well done on that ticket, Jill. As I was reading it, the postman came so I rushed to the door in the hope but no (I asked for the final too). I did get some M&S vouchers including one of those earn 5 times more points which annoyed me as I spent nearly £200 in M&S on clothes this morning - why couldn't the vouchers have arrived yesterday?

Enjoyed the latest, Geri, especially the colours.

Dry cleaning to collect, quick lunch and then the weeding.

Geri I have heard from various sources that the establishment that you are staying at soon is very good. The lady "wot runs it"is a very good cook, you will get a full English breakfast, lunch on the Terrace, and a 3 course evening meal, with wine included of course, there is a chauffeur service available as well.

Geri I have heard from various sources that the establishment that you are staying at soon is very good. The lady "wot runs it"is a very good cook, you will get a full English breakfast, lunch on the Terrace, and a 3 course evening meal, with wine included of course, there is a chauffeur service available as well.

Good afternoon Loppies
I have put the picture online for "Crash of Drums" Chapter Eleven .
Sorry it's a bit late today, have been busy.

Diana, I think I would take your receipt back to M and S and explain that the vouchers came the same day, and see if you get any joy, it might be worth a try.

Diana, I think I would take your receipt back to M and S and explain that the vouchers came the same day, and see if you get any joy, it might be worth a try.

Eva loved the Freudian slip. Touch young man indeed. Sadly with the weather here now he will be needing his top on, and - saying it very quitely - the blanket!!!

Geri I loved this chapter - Terse is such a good homage to JT's Morse. Had me giggling happily.

Enjoy the IDA final Jill, but no way is the GO going to be there live. Dont forget that Sunday's show is recorded on Saturday, and the he is otherwise engaged then. But he was supposedly at the BBC on Wednesday night, so maybe he was recording something then.

Love the hat Auds!! Hope this hairdresser gets it right. Nothing worse than a cxxp hairdo. Just no hiding it. Mine grows so fast it soon grows out, but never enough hair to do much of a rescue if they do get it badly wrong.

Gillian, if you have been out of the loop for a while had you heard that the Sacrifice concert has been cancelled?? Dont know why yet. I was going to ring them yesterday but ran out of time - will try and get through on Tuesday. I know they hadnt managed to secure a corporate sponsor but whether that was critical I dont know. But it seems that the ticket agencies will refund all tickets once the cancellation is confirmed.

Jill,- is there an echo in your area? If it's my luxurious abode you're referring to, of course all the above mentioned services are provided, except the terrace bit. Do you think a decking area will do?
I have just had a visit from my nerd. He found a virus in the system, and explained how he could improve and upgrade my hard drive and create a disc that would take care of further viruses. Of course it's going to cost me more money,- his visits always are, but if I cough up, my computer will be the best in the street! I had to say "Yes" of course,- keeping up with the Jones'es, you know. He's gone off to purchase what is needed and promised to be back Monday. I won't hold my breath!
Diana,- you are going to a wedding? Have a lovely time.

Thank you Martin! You are a star as always!

Erm, I think Diana was talking about gardening Shirley!

Hello
I hope you are all well, I haven’t had time to catch up on the blog yet, except your story Geri (Martin has printed it out for me to read) very good as usual.

As I am travelling backwards and forwards to London on the train a lot lately, and I see everybody reading books (with me starring into space) I thought I would buy myself a book.
Does anybody have any suggestions of a good easy read (Not Jack and Jill) I like a bit of Romance (don’t we all), Mystery, all the usual, but not too deep.
I will try to catch up with the blog over the weekend and bring myself up to date.

Eva - at least he's a MUCH touched young man - and it's only down to our very best manners that he's now a MAULED young man. Pauline! are you listening? Remember your manners when you're under that blanket.
I made the journey back to a "tried and tested" hairdresser and won't go anywhere else for 'convenience' sake again. I'm a happy bunny again - feel I can face the world again with my 'short back and sides'.
Diana - if you take your vouchers with the receipt(asap)back to M&S they'll update your points for you... They did it for me a few months back now.
Thanks for the role call JaneE: I'd got Magpie and Miss Brodie mixed up, and know I know what Chill and Alley-cat look like. So - the Ghost is back in today's chapter, with his/her 'horns'. Is that Dot in the window? And what is BooHiss writing in his note book?? The thick plottens. "S" mmmm? phhhhwit *that's the clues going right over my head!
Or is it like Pauline says - looking for clues in every line of the story and in every line of the illustrations. And Geri, an error or on purpose - all but one colour repeated? (You could see how easily I would fall into a state of paranoia can't you??!!) And well done from me too re Terse - I could just see and hear JT, or IM, as I read the lines.
Right, now to the shops for the weekly stock-up.

Yes sorry about the double posts.
Eva I think decking will be fine, I hope your guest behaves herself and isn't too demanding, i.e.tea first thing in morning in bed,won't sleep in the Moses basket, need I go on.
Auds I know you don't live too far from me, I can recommend a very good Hairdressers about a miles from me,a bit expensive but good, but I did notice you said you are happy with your cut now, I think a good cut is so important.
Shirley I didn't think for one moment that Lee would be appearing on IDA live, the results show though is going to be shown on Saturday as well, I am just thrilled to have tickets.
Right I am off to the garden as well.

Well, I've just been having fun! Went into town to by some mounting card and they only sold it in A0 sheets. It's bigger than I am. Walking up the hill home on a breezey day was - shall we say, interesting?!

Maggie, lovely to hear from you, hope you'e OK - I'd heartily recommend the Cadfael novels if you haven't read them already. Mystery and romance - and just cast the GO as High Beringar in your head! Works for me!

Auds - I bow to your powers of observation - yes that is Dot in the window. And you've spotted all the other clues. Well - nearly all!!!

Good afternoon.
It's a lovely day here. The sun is shining, the birds are squabbling and the neighbours on both sides are doing DIY! I can hear the tapping and banging over the birds.
I shall stay inside and since there is golf on tv I shall watch ADWD to get me in the mood for IDA this evening.
Glad you are getting over your nasty experience SHirley, and that you are pleased with your haircut Auds.
Lovely new chapter Geri and illustration Jane e.
Enjoy IDA next week Jill.
Bye for now.

Quick hello as just back from lunch at our wine bar (very nice PG blush as usual). Just going to sort out costumes for tonight - may require a little ixxnxxg alas! Jill well done you - tickets for the final - shame Sarah and Fran aren't in it anymore!! Auds I shall view the haircut with interest - only two weeks today to the Tearfest!! Gosh - it seemed ages away and now it is upon us almost! Geri I've heard that the accommodation is top notch - however I believe it the Landlady is quite demanding! As long as you can convert her to RIII things will be fine!!! Off to look at Jane's picture now - thank you Martin. Maggie - lovely to "hear" from you!

Maggie,- so good to hear from you. Hope it calms down a bit for you and Maureen. As for good books: Romance: Have you tried Maeve Binchy? She is so good, and you fall in love with her characters. If you can, start with her early novels', Light A Penny Candle and Echoes, but any of her books will do. Crime: An author which is very undervalued in my opinion is Margaret Yorke. Her writing drags you into the stories. They always start very quietly, almost slow and then everyday life and evryday people are involved in life shattering experiences. Very, very good.
JaneE,- thank you for another excellent drawing. I spotted the ghost too. Don't worry about me not recognizing birds. I know what a seagull and a dove look like, but that's about all.
Jill,- please stop giving Geri any more ideas about the services she can expect here. I'll be run ragged,- but I do have the Moses basket ready if she proves too difficult.

Hi Maggie, nice to hear from you. Can I just endorse JaneEs' recommendation? I loved them and if the GO was Hugh, ooooh, I loved Hugh anyway, love him even more now! Ther are always the Alexander McCall Smith books, No1 Ladies Detective Agancy etc, not so big on the romance, but a lovely light read.

JaneE great picture again, love the Jag, complete with proper no. plate, stuck in the middle of a medieval tale! Now as well as what Auds has seen, are those two trees of any significance? Must admit I'm stumped, sorry no pun intended!

Nice to hear from you, Maggie, you've been much in my thoughts of late. I quite like Ellis Peters, but prefer PD James. If you haven't read them, her Cordelia Grey stories are pretty good; you already know my fondness for Conan Doyle and DL Sayers. Someone else I really like, though he's not well known, is Charles Todd. His detective is a Scotland Yard man who has just returned from WW1 and is shellshocked. Really interesting premise and well handled. The Oxford Murders was an interesting tale but I felt dissatisfied with the ending. Oh, and Anne Perry, esp. the William Monk tales, are very good.

Martin, thanks again for posting the picture. Jane & I are starting to get closer to posting both story and pictures, so there may start to be a bit of a lag between chapters, especially with my holiday (I'm coming to the UK) coming up.

I had a long morning running around taking care of errands before my holiday (I'm visiting the UK. Forgot to mention it), and got some new shoes. I was waiting so long in Schuh I was given a discount and had an apology from the manager, the sales girl, and the cashier. Can't remember the last time that happened -- most places take bad service as their right & your bad luck.

Sorry Geri? did you say you are going on holiday - no dear, you never mentioned it!

Pauline2 - glad you liked the Jag - it was a bit naughty of me putting in a medieval story but I couldn't resist! Now the only hint I'll give you is - who does the Jag belong to?

Afternoon all - just catching up with you all. Lovley day but very windy - suspect we will be having our BBQ indoors - again. Friends coming round and their daughter has egg allergy and just realised that the pesto sauce in my rice salad has traces of egg in it - so just started again and made another eggless rice salad. Amazing what does have egg in it.

Love Morse, sorry Terse, geri. Another great chapter - again I never remember book titles after i have read them so no use even looking for clues as would just drive myself mad(der) trying to remember what books they are linked to. Love the picture as ever jane E - noticed the No plate on "the horseless carriage" but again RPA rang no bells.

Shirley - glad you had better day after car incident. Ploppy always keeps disposable cammeras in our cars fro that reason. Great you are joining the tearfest. So near - are you able to come over to Uk to join us then Geri?

Ok off to prepare more salads. Our friend's daughter has learning disabilities and she invited family round here as she hadnt been round fro ages (as now tend to do grown ups only) - and seemingly she has been saying all day how much she is lookign forward to tonight - no pressure then!!

Lovely day today. More w***ing blowing on line now. This time saddle cloths. I may not be watching IDA tonight, we have one of our regular TV outages. Depends on what it is how long it will be out. So I'm reduced to watching a dvd. Luckily I have many to choose from. I also have some i***ing to do tonight. Something you have only seen me type once before in all these months. I have sorted lots of my large clothes, washed them ready to give to charity shop, so they need to be flattened.
Jill-Well done in getting those tickets.
Maggie-I'm thinking of you all. Sorry I'm with Fi on book titles.
Eva-I expect your guest will just be pleased to be over here.
Geri-Love the story. Hope the hotel manager(ess) is nice during your stay.
Jane-I'll check out pic in a bit.
I'm sure I'd meant to say more, didn't do the note thing.
Catch you later, tribe needs feeding.

Geri,-I keep reading about this holiday you're going on. Don't tell me you are going to drop yourself on an unexpecting public in UK. So where are you going, then?
An apology from a shop manager and shop assistant? Wonders will never sieze (sp?)
I had a nice afternoon snooze and are ready for the evening's hard work i.e. watching and commenting IDA. I might even pop in on Eurovision Song Contest to see how Norway gets on. Oh yes, we got to the final! I'm not too impressed with Andy Abrahams song. I've heard it twice on the radio today, but still can't recall it, and don't think I would recognize it without being told which song it is. Does that make sense? No? Never mind. I know what I mean!
Still nice weather here, Debbie, if you are heading this way.

btw I like Weepy's Sweet Caroline in the semi final. It must be nearly a year since I last heard it.

but I thought the Jag was Terse's??? I 'goggled' it.
"Inspector Morse Jaguar, 248 RPA, ... This car is the original Inspector Morse Jaguar and is available for limited public and commercial appearances. ..." so perhaps it belongs to ITV?? Did you ask permission JaneE?

She did, Auds, and got a 'terse' response!

Eva, who told you about my holiday? I hear the establishment is very well maintained but the landlady is a bit of a harridan...

Any bets who's leaving IDA tonight?

OK the point is that the car belongs to MORSE. Does that give you any hints girls?

I'm dashing off to spend the evening with some friends (don't worry Carol - there will be plenty of wine consumed!)

Have a lovely evening Loppies - I'll just leave a few Ohmms in case of need - OOOOHHMMM!!

Oo Eva, thanks for reminding me, I'd forgotten it was Eurovision tonight. Should be good for a laugh!!

Karen2 - how nice of you to give those tickets to your Dad. And with the BBQ as well, hopefully, it will help take your Mum and Dad's mind off Monday. Will be sending lots of ohms to your Mum and all of you on Monday.

Maggie - lovely to hear from you. Glad you could pop in. Lots of ohms also to your Mum and all of you too.

Jill - great news about the tickets. I'm sure you'll have a great time whoever is in the final. And My Family too, I love that show and I love Robert Lyndsay.

Jane - another great picture. Oo, I saw the ghost, I saw the ghost!!. Yes, okay I know everybody did but you know how rubbish I am at spotting things. Btw, I howled at the image of you walking up the road struggling against the wind with card that's bigger than you are. Still giggling now, in fact.

Well, it's been overcast and dull here all day and now, as I am about to pour myself a drink and settle down to IDA, now the sun decides to come out!! Typical!

And talking of IDA, a thought just occured to me - I wonder if there are a whole load of men (and possibly women) out there whose lives are about to change forever when their favourite Nancy wins next week. You can't imagine it can you!!!!????

JaneE,- I'm sure the solution makes sense when I see it, but I've tried writing the numbers with letters, tried the number 2,4 and 8 in the alphabeth, but zilch! You don't expect us to tap the Morse alphabeth, do you?
Geri,- I hope Rachel will go tonight, but I think it will be either Sam or Jessie. If Rachel comes in the sing-off again, I think ALW will save her, again!

Geri going on holiday? No really?? Funny how quiet she has kept that. Wonder where she is going??

Auds I am delighted you hairdresser got your hair sorted for you. Do I take it your hat has been discarded??

Maggie, wonderful to hear from you. Hugs coming your way so duck if you dont want them..... I agree with Pauline on the Alistair McCall Smith. They have such a delightful charm about them and are such an easy read. For a mystery I have just finished Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn which is also a very easy read, and a real pageturner. The romantic interest is 1/2 gypsy with dark curly hair - got your interest yet?? It is based in London in 1886 with our heroine being a very wealthy and well connected widow. It gives a real feel for the constraints on women imposed by society and fashion, without ever feeling teachy. It is her debut novel, and very impressive.

Geri and Jane thank you so very much for your continued labours. You both give us all so much pleasure.

Just watching the last programme from this year's Chelsea. Have really enjoyed it this year. If HC is that good cant wait.

AAAAAGGGGHHHH mains failure has to be sorted before they can fix it. Very nice man at BBC, said 'I know, I know' in a soothing way when I said but it's Eurovision and IDA.
Nevermind, as that's all I have to worry about I know I'm really lucky. Let me know how things go.

Jane love the picure, lots of clues I'm sure. What's the S on the note pad mmmmmmm?

Evening people, looking a bit grim here, think we might just get some rain! The garden needs it, but have a feeling it won't know when to stop.

Fi have a lovely evening, I'm sure you are up to the challenge. Allergies are a nightmare to cater for, my cousin' eldest has a nut allergy. Never realised what could contain nuts till I tried cooking for them!

Karen2 hope your day has been special. You know that the ohhhhmmms will be there for your Mum come Monday.

JaneE, yes well I know it is Morse, so is it a book to do with code? All I can think of is The Da Vinci Code, mmm maybe not.

I think Jessie may go tonight, her and Rachel in the sing off. But this has been full of surprises. Karen no that is not going to happen.

Btw, as the Drifters concert is off, have decided to treat myself to a night in the SP for the tear fest, so be afraid ladies!

Ohhhhhmmmmms for any who need them.

Phew TV back! I'll not find out tonight who won the other show I was watching on dvd.

Pauline that is excellent news. Can people let me know if they are planning to stay in town on 8th for a Loppy lunch or if you are all planning to head off early. I can do either, but need to organise things.

A VERY happy Donna is on her way home af