Partners, You can now email the Chair of the Residents Forum

It's all go since I became Chair of the Residents forum. Today was a bit of glamour. Partners are now promoting their image and as Chair that means me as well. Had to pen a message to be included in the next Gazette. There is always a cut off deadline in all publications so as usual was done in rush. The next problem was photos of me.

Doesn't look good to have the same tired old photo used over and over again. They need some for the media and their website as well. I'm good at taking photos of others but I don't have any suitable current ones.

With a variety of outfits ready, Tom from HQ turned up this afternoon with his camera. Luck was in - the rain stopped just as he arrived. What a laugh - kept changing my clothes as he took photos all over my flat and around the property. In keeping with Islington recycling drive had some shots taken around and looking into the new Green 250 litre wheelie bin - will be interesting to see how they turn out. Least Tuesday is our collection day so it was easy to move all the empty bins and containers around.

More photos taken in the garden - I'm always chuffed after all my effort when officialdom say something nice about the garden. Partners have a planned series of themes for each Gazette - one in the pipeline is on the subject of maintaining gardens and the cleanliness of property frontages. After all the refurbishment works the whole property looks great. Office bound, it's probably the first time Tom has actually seen one of the properties made-over- he was impressed. An example of what can be done with a little care this property will most likely be photographed a lot during the next couple of years.

Partners are keeping up with modern technology - there will be no more traipsing back and forth, to sign letters - what a relief. They have also now created a separate email address for the Forum chair as well so that will be interesting to see what people write in about.

Islington Partners Residents forum: Introducing the new chair.

Busy, busy, busy - After the summer break Sept is always full of meetings - this year is no exception. Tonight was Islington's 'Partners' Residents forum meeting.

First up on the agenda, the election of Chair for a two year term. Feel very proud that yours truly was elected by the members with a wide majority. Richard Best was elected vice-chair. Other residents were co-opted after the election so we now have a good team in place.

Being the Chair for two years is a real commitment but everybody including officialdom seems to feel I'm up to the task. They are all used to my making waves so to speak but its all for the long term good of Islington residents anyway.

The Summer edition of the Partners Gazette has since been distributed to the 5000 plus residents living in properties managed by Partners. Good to see some of the concerns of residents were included in the publication - gives members of the forum encouragement that their voice is being heard. The Autumn edition is already being planned. Other issues of concern or interest will be in the next one - Including something about visitors to properties(family & friends) and their behaviour.
Seems now I'm going to have to write something to be included in each edition of the Gazette. Not a problem with so much going on around.

The forum members had already been informed about the new recycling developments and it is hoped an article will be included in the next edition as well. I'm pleased that wheelie bins were distributed to some of the residents in this area and all the old green boxes collected. So far everybody who has received one are very pleased - less mess and easy to manage. For this property we did get two delivered to share - should think do to, what good would one wheelie bin be.

As the meetings are open to the public, our new venue at the Town Hall means easy access for most residents and plenty of space for people to sit - so welcome all.

End of the summer

Seems we are at the end of the lovely hot weather. All week it has been chop and change between extremes in weather conditions. Tuesday was able to get the pool out for my grandson - he actually managed to get me in it up to knee level. It was either that or get sprayed - least it was fun. He has started his new school but for the first week they close for half the day. Having attended nursery since the year dot he's full of confidence but some of the other children have never been away from their mothers before so find it very distressing. He just said at the moment school is boring but at least he's been able to spend time with his nans'.

They live so far a way now I have to meet him half way at London Bridge. Not a stress, he knows the way on the Northern line down all those long passages without batting an eye lid. God he's so sensible I'm just amazed the way he thinks - like a little old man giving me instructions not to go near the yellow line and making sure I touch in and out with my oyster card. At times he seems to be looking after me not the other way round. So pleased he has now learnt where I live and knows what to do in an emergency - such a relief.

Thursday again the weather wasn't so good - indoor activities. Imagine him telling me to go quietly up the stairs so as not to disturb the neighbours.

Saturday was another scorcher. My foster mum was showing two of her Champion boxer dogs at the Richmond dog show. If she can travel all the way from Wales at her age then who am I to say anything about travelling from North London to Guildford Surrey so off I went. The train journeys weren't so bad but at the other end just couldn't be bothered looking up buses so jumped in a taxi. A wise choice - it was miles - would have taken forever on a bus. Habits die hard - Get told off as if I'm still a child so didn't dare be late when I promised I'd be there.

Arrived in time to see the young Alice strut her stuff and win another prize. The two dogs have won so many prizes this year they more than qualify for Crufts. Guess who will be going to Birmingham again next year.

Islington: Wheelie Bins for recycling

Islington recycling will soon announce more plastic items that can be included in the weekly collection - such as plastic containers, Tetrapack, drinks carton and plastic bags.

Where resident should put all the stuff has also been considered - the sensible news is wheelie bins for recycling are being introduced. They are not being rolled out around the borough but an opt in arrangement is being organised as a trial.

One can only say thank heavens for that. Already in the property where I live there are 9 green boxes and most weeks this is not enough. Then with the wind, the boxes at time are a nightmare to keep closed and recycling rubbish is blown about sometimes in the street.

Sounding out opinions of adjacent neighbours and other local residents in the area most I've spoken to welcome the idea as long as they retrieve the old garden boxes and not create another problem with redundant green boxes and nowhere to keep them. Even the route collectors say it would make their collection much easier - there is apparently a high rate of recycling in this area.

Well I've included this property on the list. As a multi-occupancy property one wheelie bin won't be enough so I'm hoping they will give us two for the trials - least that's on the cards for now.

Waiting for more official information about the scheme so watch this space...

Britblog roundup 238: The end of the Summer hols version

It's the end of the summer hols - children are back to school - the nightmare begins - heavy London traffic. Why can't the little darlings just walk to school or get a bus and save the environment.

Checking this weeks nominations, seems like many bloggers are still getting back into the swing of things except of course the political bloggers who have always got something gobby to say.

Last week was extremely traumatic for me - it's continued this week with calls and impromptu visits which have really disrupted my whole weekend - not that I mind because people who are distressed need somebody to talk to. By sheer coincidence Lynne Featherstone MP penned about her hospice visit North London Hospice - she wrote,I have always been shocked - that end of life care (dying basically) is often left to charities rather than being part of the NHS and properly funded by them.

A news item that's really pissed me off - the demise of the 100watt condensate bulb has likewise irked many people - the energy saving bulbs supposed 100watt equivalent is useless if one needs bright light. Unmitigated England's witty gist Black Out says it all,

We've seen some jaw-dropping dictates from them for some time, but this one beggars belief. So, from yesterday apparently, it's 'ban all those perfectly serviceable lightbulbs.....

To calm the mood - see photo above. English Buildings always has interesting facts about historical buildings. This week he's writing about a lighthouse in Burham on Sea, Somerset.

But in the end, buffeted and battered, I made it to the Low Light, Burnham’s sea-shore lighthouse on poles. This unusual structure was built in 1832.

Just wonder how he finds the time to visit all the buildings he writes about.

Pro Liberi's on his soap box - Milking the consumer - About corporations holding back on replacing technology to get the most out of their investment and screwing the consumer.

Interesting post - Stumbling and Mumbling on X Factor politics - Seems the X Factor has become the show that every politician must watch

Remember the Jersey scandal. A good, straight cop responds to the Jersey establishment's lies -Lenny Harpers guest posting on Senator Stuart Syvret's Blog

Ben, a convicted murderer, asks if he, as a prisoner should be allowed to blog.

The F-word reviews the book Bluestockings, The Remarkable Story of the First Women to fight for an Education, by Jane Robinson

England’s first college accepting female undergraduates was established in 1869. In 1948, Cambridge became the last university in the country to grant degrees to its female students. Alexandra Roumbas Goldstein reviews a book which charts the years in between....

Mark Reckons recently interviewed Douglas Carswell about his book the Plan which he co-wrote with Daniel Hanman

Chicken Yogurt writes, When is a nuclear submarine not a nuclear submarine - Take for example, the recently launched Indian nuclear submarine, the INS Arihant (Destroyer of Enemies). Just how many enemies the Arihant could be the destroyer of right now is debatable,for you see...

Clairwil shouts All Hail Lubna 'whip me if you dare' Hussian

Bishop Crammer is really put out that the NHS is advertising for Faith and Spirituality Coordinators. What a waste of money.

Liberal Conspiracy feels Feminists aren't letting down Muslim women - just hate it when men are opinionated about women matters when they know nothing.

Jonathon Calder writes Russell Howard and Mock the week - an interesting post.

A well reasoned commentary - Bulger to Edington - small kids killing other smaller kids for sadistic pleasure - stuff that nightmares are made of.

The adventures of Juliette ponders why factual crime is always so much more banal, depressing and predictable than the fictional version?

Penny Red most vocal as usual - Reproductive freedom and racial paranoia

It goes without saying - Why journalism still beats blogging.

A modern day fagan - Just looking at his photo, all I can say is Yuk.

This a special request not a blog post. Our Soldier boy Matt after a serious head operation a year ago is trying to raise money for the Army's Headley Court rehabitation centre which is largely funded by donations. Now disabled but still in the Army he is taking part in sporting competitions on behalf of the Army's disabled soldiers. If you can help even with a fiver, please donate to Just Giving so he reaches his target of £2000.

That's all for this week. Sorry it's not my usual witty post but one has to be in the mood to crack jokes.

Next weeks round up will be hosted by Natalie Bennett who pens Philobiblon

Missed any BBRU posts - you can catch up on other weeks on Britblog Roundup Central
Nominations for any post please send them in to britblog AT gmail DOTcom

End of life care!!!

Spent a traumatic week at the Marie Curie Hospice Hampstead, North London around the bedside of somebody I love - she died late Friday night. Not something easy to talk about but her 'foster granddaughter' summed up my feelings on Saturday when she wrote on Facebook.

Have u ever cried, till u can cry no more and realised that ur body is still sobbing but thee is nothing u can o to stop?

Tears wouldn't stop - had to sit in the garden - the only place I could go away from all sound so the neighbours wouldn't hear my painful raking crying. Phone didn't stop ringing - people asking if I'm Ok - all were appreciated even if I couldn't say much through the tears.

The concept of being referred to a Hospice to die is something I've not had any experience of before - a real shock to the system. Located not far from where I live but going every day with the feeling of dread, just couldn't handle public transport - the local taxi company were marvelous - seems their services are used frequently by others in the same situation going to the same hospice.

To be honest it is a much more friendly atmosphere and much nicer than a hospital but to be sent there after being told there is no hope and you are going to die is mind blowing - end of life care they call it. It's not actually dying with dignity - many people linger on for weeks and that is what I can't get my head round - it's unnerving. The time between the coma state and actual death - is agonising to witness. The staff though are just marvelous but they have to be special to work in that kind of environment. They even extend their support to visitors - much appreciated when people are distressed.

Checking some of the blog, by sheer coincidence Lynne Featherstone MP penned about her hospice visit North London Hospice - she wrote,

I have always been shocked - that end of life care (dying basically) is often left to charities rather than being part of the NHS and properly funded by them.

She has hit the nail on the head - I was more than surprised to learn that the hospice is funded by donations and not the NHS. Doesn't seem right somehow - there should be at least some contribution. I fully support the motion about this.

Still struggling to get myself back on track - back to unpacking my few remaining boxes. Grandchildren came round yesterday completely lifting my mood. After jumping all over me, such polite little beings (shoes off in nana's house), first question, where were their slippers for my house - where were all their toys. Full of beans they inspected the new layout of my flat and of course it was down in the garden......

Escape from the maddening crowd

Had an amazing time at my cousin Julie's. A lot's happened since my - Real family 'Fathers for justice' story. Julie, her hubby and sister Alice went to Cyprus to see their dad.

Then by a real stroke of luck found their eldest missing half brother Mick - another emotional journey especially for Mick who is almost my age. He and his wife have now also booked a holiday to Cyprus as well.

Through all of it, Julie has been a star - found we really get on and have been in touch ever since. She is my kind of person, somebody you don't have to mind your P's & Q's with. Kept promising I would go and visit but after my bout of flu took the bull by the horns.

Saturday up with the larks dashed out to catch the tube - was completely taken back when not only the Victoria Line was closed for engineering works but most of the other lines as well. Always say I'm a silly mare at times - should have checked before travelling. Thinking about the time of the train from Victoria, dashed over the road to borrow twenty quid from my friends shop and jumped in a taxi. Actually missed my train but because of road works around Victoria they allowed passengers on the next train without paying any penalty

Journey took less than two hours - got off and there was Julie smiling away. It was like we had known each other for years. What a marvelous place she lives in. The beach nearby and Arundel Castle the principal home of the Duke of Norfolk was just a short drive away. Just love old worldly places - Arundel was a real picture book place - some real posh shops and expensive houses.

Spent several hours touring the castle - except for Buck Palace haven't been inside one that's actually lived in. The old part was as expected, we climbed up and down all the towers. The stair wells are so narrow, can't imagine how anybody a bit over weight can manage the winding stairs. Something I'd never given a thought to before - some boys were having a good laugh at the open historic tube toilet in the top of the tower walls - bit cold for 'bums' in the winter and where did the crap all drop on to.

Over at the main part of the castle where the family live, by some fluke the guest bedrooms were open. What an eye opener - wondered how anybody nowadays can manage in those historical bathrooms. The height of the beds, even I would would have to jump to get on them - no wonder they made some special steps for Queen Victoria when she visited the castle.

As we were leaving just had to go to the loo. Cubical doors were the wooden barn type. Was in fits laughing when two elderly ladies commented with relief that at least the visitors toilets were modern.

From the Castle it was tea in an old fashioned tea/coffee shop - just the basics none of the modern Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte or Mocha stuff. Reminded me of the Agatha Christie films. Being with Julie was a laugh a minute - no point wearing my eye makeup, it kept coming of with laughter tears.

From there was a quick stroll along the sea front then back to Julie's house. Her hubby cook up some lovely nosh for us - ate until I was stuffed. With her two sons still living at home what a fun house.

Couldn't get over how quiet it was in the evening - quite unnerving for those of us who live in London.

Sunday we went to see her sister, my cousin Alison - she was so pleased to see me. Can't get over how much she resembles my own sisters. Then out of respect we called on her mum. The rest of the time flew past. Bit sad to have to leave. Got home almost midnight. Not unusual in it's self but the complicated journey because of the tube network's downtime made it very tiring.

Will I go again - hope so - that's if they want me.

BritBlog Roundup 235 BBRU 235: Midsummer Fat Panic Edition

Like a knight in shining armour Charles Crawford stepped into the breach and swapped with me - this weeks BritBlog Roundup - BBRU 235: Midsummer Fat Panic Edition is now on his blog.

Big relief - a great load off my head. He's such a witty writer well worth a read. My turn will now be 6th Sept.

Stress - I live here too!!!

Another week nearly ended - was supposed to be my quiet week - no chance to rest - unreasonable noise on a daily basis is doing my head in - feel like screaming out the window at times, I live here too.

Didn't receive any post for 3 days - not sure when the London postal strikes are planned but they seem to be ongoing - so irritating when one is expecting important mail.

Last weekend booked a mini break away - was told as it was an advance rail ticket they have a special deal - £10 return. Was flabbergasted - instead of the £27 single - who wouldn't take such a deal. Expected the tickets Monday but they only arrived this afternoon and a late post at that. Was getting myself unnecessarily stressed that they wouldn't arrive in time.

Tuesday one of my impulse buys arrived by courier delivery - a garden vac cum shredder. The trees at the back look lovely but I'm getting too old to keep raking up the thousand of falling Autumn leaves. Wasn't cheap and not easy to put together either - was also sceptical it would work the way advertised. Just had to try it out so it was a day in the garden. The gizmo is marvelous - it gobbled up all the dried grass cuttings (even with a mover that's supposed to collect the grass there are always some lumps left behind), the paper, leaves and other rubbish.

Was able also do a bit more pressure hose washing down - can only use it gradually nowadays the vibration hurts my hands. Bit surprised at the detergents suds and yucky smell which formed in the water hitting the brick step - had to scoop up the water rather than let it drain away so it wouldn't kill the grass. The whole back is on a slope and any water drainage seeps into the garden section - some days it floods. Now the pathway doesn't smell and looks lovely with all the green stuff gone - won't be slippy in the winter.

Seem to be spending a fortune on snail and slug killer. If they didn't eat the plants wouldn't bother but they seem to be out in force this year. Likewise bug killer spray - Many of the shrubs and mini tree are being infected by the two small apple trees that have been left to grow all straggly not pruned or sprayed. The owner won't listen to me but it's so sad to see them going brown with the leaves all holely - no lush fruit only a few struggling apples on one tree that just fall off all brown and yucky. Any that fall on my side - more food for the worms in the composter.

Still have to cut the overhanging branches - a job for next week. I know legally I don't have to ask but it's called being polite. Have nice neighbours on both sides of the property. The creeper growing along the left wall they don't want cutting. It has completely covered their side - they say it covers up the ugly wall and the squirrels don't like running along it. On the other side the lady says I can cut anything back that is overhanging so there is light on my own plants, same for the residents living in the properties at the bottom of the garden. Why can't everybody be just a nice.

Wednesday my stuff in storage finally arrived. Been a bit of a stress getting it back - people who organise it have been away. Least my flat looks better with the rest of the furniture in it - have a table to eat on not - not easy managing with trays. My mini office cupboard also - at long last somewhere to put all the files and papers. Didn't realise how many boxes the packers used. Stuck high in the hallway have only managed to unpack 12 so far. Finding so many things I don't really need anymore - the answer the local Freecycle - everything goes. Specially the brown boxes and white packing paper there is a queue of people waiting for them. Loads of stuff went today.

Wednesday also went outside to collect my recycle food box - I'd forgotten about the collect on Tuesday. As usual - only 4 boxes were very neatly stacked with the others 5 just left scattered as the collectors had left them. How that's for spite - being territorial about green boxes - it absolutely ludicrous - I always sort them out for everybody if I've got time. Who cares about what goes in the boxes or whose they are. In a nice world they should be just filled up one by one. Not this is my box and that is yours, it's all so petty. The same on collection night I put everything together. If I forget my green stuff and food box is just left behind - so very sad that adults can behave in this way.

Thursday more unpacking - seems never ending - my brain briefly evaporated - was so tired fell asleep on the sofa.

Friday was just a nothing day was quite determined I wasn't going to stress myself by unpacking anymore boxes - They'll have to wait until next week. To relax is working on my family tree. Post arrived with 2 more death certs and 1 marriage - working on the Penny/Lamb family 1700-1800's - direct ancestors. So difficult to get it right when names are common - was so chuffed when they turned out to be correct. There are over 20 family trees on the web with some of the same names but nobody has the details on the certs I received - am chuffed with my investigative skills. Also a whole batch on London records have been put on the web - found 3 of my grandfather half brothers marriages. I'm one of those that like to know what happened to people.

Brtiblog roundup 234

This weeks Britblog roundup 234 has been posted by Jonathan Calder - The one that breaks the rules. He's slapping the wrist of everybody so I suppose that includes me - I'm guilty of forgetting to post the roundup each week.

Just realised that I'm supposed to be the one producing next weekends - Unfortunately that's not going to be possible so I hope I can get one of the syndicate to change with me.

Rarely seen photos 1800s

Hat tip - Bridget Fox who is into all things good about Islington when she is not slagging off her Labour opponent Emily Thornberry.

For history buffs - The Daily Mail has an article with some interesting old photos of 1800s London and beyond.

One that caught my eye - London's famous landmark Nelson's Column under construction in April 1844 - have a look.

Apparently the British Library holds 350,000 historic pictures in its vaults, and for the first time ever it is running an exhibition of these rarely seen pictures, which will open in Oct this year - as it not far from here would be fascinating to see some more of the collection.

From the beyond my choice is the 1846 photo of the Colosseum in Rome - can't help remembering taking my sons there when they were young. While I was more interested in the history of the place they were fearlessly running about in the centre pretending to be lions and Roman gladiators - as we at were that time visiting from Africa I was so surprised that they even knew what gladiators were.

A day of surprises

Received a surprise letter today confirming my appointment as an associate Director on the Homes for Islington (HFI) Performance Management Committee on behalf of Partners.

It's all about performance, best practice and value for HFI services - serious stuff. Having been recommended for the post, went along to a meeting Monday - loads of reading - a packed agenda. Most of the other Directors and Associates I've met before so it wasn't like going into a room full of strangers.

Known to be somebody who says it as it is, calling a spade a spade - added my quota to the meeting. Seems somebody liked my approach.

Not much to actually report back to Partners - a little about PFI leaseholder issues but what made me smile was the matter of enforcing tenancy conditions with dogs as the priority. Tenants are allowed one dog, two with permission but in the past the regulations haven't been enforced with the result some residents have several and others even illegally breeding them. Two of the councillors were most vocal about the situation which is considered now getting out of hand. How they are going to implement the regulations uniform across the borough is yet to be confirmed - bureaucracy and red tape not withstanding eventually there will be an action plan.

Another issue that has resurfaced this week - the back left side boundary adjoining wall which is gradually falling apart and listing dangerously towards this property - after every rain more cracks appear - the middle section has completely separated from the two end wall sections. From next door the wall can been seen to be bending over in a kind of curve. In March 2007 suits came to inspect it then the matter went dead.

2009 one of new tenants next door is concerned as well - the company which owns that property has agreed to go halves with the cost of pulling it down and rebuilding. Now another survey appointment has been made. Was told that with so many walls in the queue it is turn by turn. Though if everything is agreed could be just 6 weeks after inspection before the work starts.

We live to see - the wall obviously dangerous something has to be done about it. I'm more concerned how they will go about it and the garden.

Green Energy & Oyster cards you are never to old to learn

Today is Barack Obama's birthday - today is also my son Sule's and his partner Natasha's birthday. I often wonder what are the odds of other couples being born not only on the same day but the same year - grandchildren have got their head round the strange situation by singing happy birthday to mummy and daddy.

What to buy for presents - just has to be for their new house. Went to see it last week with my sister. Excited children showing me every cupboard in every room. A house is a house but what has fascinated me about it is, as a new build it has many green energy saving features I've heard about but never seen in use before. Specially the solar panels on the roof, have to admit I'm still not sure in practical terms how they actually work.

Set back from the main road, one impressive feature about the whole building complex is the unusual shaped layout. There is even a closed off fully equipped children's playground visual to all residents so small children can play safely.

Learned another valuable lesson today about the use of the Oyster card. Unless one has a weekly or monthly payment on a card with the pay-as-you-go type, no matter how much money is on the card you have to buy a separate ticket to travel on the overland trains. As a visitor to London got my sister a pay-as-you-go. Loads of money on the card but when we rushed to catch the train we were blocked by the barrier. Had to queue up for a ticket - all so frustrating especially when the trains are only every half hour and it's getting to past children's bedtime. Which child is going to willingly go to bed when nana is expected and they are excitedly waiting to show off their new bedrooms!!!!

A week with my sister from Plymouth

An interesting week having my sister Anne-louise around - no kids, other family or dogs - been years since we have spent time together like that. Didn't manage all the things we had planned but..

Unpacking her bags - yes I mean bags (vegetables from her greenhouse all the way from Plymouth) - first up was her photos. Looking at the pictures of my daughter Jaycee who died wasn't a bad as I expected - sort of mentally tuned myself so I didn't get upset. Then the photos of us when we were growing up brought back so many memories. Our mother had written the dates on them all, without I wouldn't have guessed our ages. One of us, myself, Anne-louise and Jean all dressed up for our ballet classes - couldn't stop laughing. Can still remember the etiquette lessons and those classes - the 5 basic positions, first position, second position and all that - arabesques, plies, learning to stand on the blocks and the pointe work - toes hurt for days. Another - Rose Queen day, what a plonker I looked with the crown thing stuck on my head - can still remember dancing round the May pole.

Two unexpected photos of me on my first birthday - don't know why Anne-louise had them. Wouldn't have recognised myself - the only identifiable marking is they say Kensington on the back so they have to be me. They called it being chubby back then, I call it just plain fat.

One thing I have to say about our mother be we were all impeccably dressed. She knitted and sewed everything. I was about 5 when I got my first sewing machine - all my dolls were dressed in mini copies of what we wore. Learning to knit was easy - knit one purl one and drop stitch etc - must admit I haven't knitted a thing since 1973 though I've always had a sewing machine and more recently an over-locker.

Tuesday the scaffolding in this property came down - Anne-louise was a bit taken back by seeing men walking passed the window while she was half dressed. Her first reaction when they had gone was to look at the sad looking front window flower boxes.

Tuesday also was a visit to our cousin's son Rod from Australia who lives not far from here - the one who works in the TV industry ( photo above). Had a fantastic time - not all relations one takes to but he is an exception - such a witty young man - surprisingly he seemed to enjoy the visit as much as we did - well when you are young, to have two oldies around for hours can be tiresome. All the family tree stuff he finds as fascinating as well. Asked how out of all the places in London he ended up in Islington he just said when he arrive it felt like home - thinks it's so odd that his great grandfather Claude Wooldridge was born just down the road from where he lives (Liverpool Road) 1891 and his great, great, gran Blanche Young1866 walked the same streets. Suppose the same thing applies to me I can't really explain how from Africa I ended up in Islington either.

As expected he has a huge collection of photos on his high tech computer system. Found so many old family photos - was difficult to decide which ones we wanted. He has since zapped the whole lot over to me - isn't technology marvelous.

From his house of course Anne-louise wanted to see the house grandfather was born and the family church. Coming out of the church on the Holloway Road side noticed Ronalds Road where grandfathers brother was born - we just had to have a look. Have to agree with her when you think of the area back then it was horse-drawn carriages and tram lines not busy roads full of cars. On the return journey showed her the pillars which used to be the entrance to the old Tufnell Park estate. The manor (now demolished) stood on the site of the Holloway Odeon.

All that walking we were shattered so Wednesday after a rainy night we decided to cut the front hedge and tidy up the flower area. Usually takes me ages - the cutting is simple but the clearing up is so tiring - need to rest more these days as I'm doing it so takes me much longer than it used to. With two people it was so much quicker. She is more experienced than me in knowing what is what, which plants should grow where and how to treat them.

Almost finished when the visitors to the flat downstairs arrived with their children. I've never told her anything about the problems I have with them. It is so difficult to explain - it's so meaningless and she is a worrier. The smallest thing can trigger off a verbal onslaught - I'm so used to it now I just mentally switch off - goes in one ear and out the other. She couldn't get over what she called their aggressive behaviour as if other people don't have small children - she was quite put out by it all.

Don't know how we managed it but later we went to Kentish Town - she can't handle the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street. A family with all kind of allergies she found what she was looking for at the orgnanic shop. Couldn't get her out of the Garden Centre - thought I was bad enough - least we bought some pansies for the window boxes and a proper fancy tall pot for the indoor plants now on the stairs. Back home before she even had a cup of tea the window boxes were sorted and the two indoor plants were professionally repotted.

Thursday was just chilling - I had an appointment. She spent time scanning all the photos for me. Evening was a visit to my son Sule - a long journey now they have moved into their new house - spent hours just chin wagging. He sent us home in a taxi becasue we brought back some of their empty packing boxes for her to take back to Plymouth - would never have thought about it myself but they cost a bomb and she hates waste so everybody obliged.

Friday it was a day in the garden - she was quite determined to sort it out. Least I have all the correct soil for each type of plant and plant food. She had me dizzy the way she set about refreshing all the pots and cutting back the shrubs that have disease on them. Had my hand on my heart with way she cut them back so small. She gave me some pointers so the tree bushes don't grow so big.

Saturday she was off in a taxi - was going to go with her but the tube line was down for weekend maintence. Several hours later she phoned - back home safe boxes and all.

Bridget Fox campaigning with Tories

What a turn up for the books - In this weeks tribune... a photo of Bridget Fox Lib Dem PPC Islington South and Finsbury helping the conservatives campaign in St. Peters!!!!

Canal bosses threaten to sink the Sandwich Barge

A SINGLE mother’s canalboat café, which brought new life to a neglected stretch of waterway at Angel, has been closed down – an apparent victim of her own success. Lorraine Fox’s narrowboat snack bar, the Sandwich Barge, brightened up the desolate towpath at City Road Basin. Walkers and cyclists enjoyed the friendly service and home-made tea and cakes served in china cups and plates.

Noticed that Bridget didn't even get a mention in the article... on the other hand there is growing local media interest in the activities of Islington Tories.

Antonia Cox, Conservative parliamentary candidate for Islington South and Finsbury, found it difficult to believe that BW would halt a popular canal business in the middle of a recession. “They never mentioned anything about tendering when Lorraine set up,” she said.

Just last week Labour MP Emily Thornberry upset the applecart by claiming a resurgent Tory party is the biggest threat to her seat at the next General Election not the Lib Dems.

Guest blogger from the wilds of Devon

On a rest and relaxation visit to my sister Susanne in London, I have been fascinated by the world of blogging. I must confess I am amazed that so many busy people do have the time to write a blog, whether politics or daily doings- something I don't have time for in Devon. In fact, though the college where I work as a lecturer does have a joint college blog, vainly started a few years ago by some intrepid spirit, no one seems to have the time to add to it. Does that mean we are all more busy in Devon? I don't thinks so. However, I do believe we probably have a less frantic pace of life so maybe get more 'stuff' into our day; therefore we may have no time to blog. Bloggers in Plymouth and the rest of Devon please comment!

Life in Plymouth and the rest of Devon is much easier to deal with than London. In the 70's, for two years, I did live in the depth of Hackney, so I did do my bit of struggling with my small children in rush hours, the tube, crowds and noisy places. That is really what is so different. In the towns in Devon obviously there is some noise (traffic people etc - normal stuff) but just 15 minutes drive away or a very short bus ride away and you are breathing in fresh air and can see cows, sheep, horses, donkeys etc in green fields or can take a walk on the beach with your dog. And there is space! (grammatically incorrect sentence here as you never start a sentence with and except by poetic licence, which I am claiming here - college lecturer's hat on - it's never far away!!)

What was I blogging about? Oh yes the space. Now that doesn't mean that all you guys should pack up your bags and head over my way to Devon. Then it would be too crowded in Devon and London would be so empty that I would have to come down here. However, we do welcome you all as visitors. Then you will be called 'grockles' by the locals.

I do like what my sister Susanne has done with the garden at the back of her flat in London. It is a lovely green space - a normal garden. In fact the view from her kitchen window shows how many of her neighbours value their green space, as most gardens are beautiful with grass and flowers and trees. As a keen gardener myself, (we are from a line of keen gardeners), I always like to look at and admire people's gardens. I believe that a garden tells you much about a family's ethos.

As I live on the edge of Plymouth (yet only ten minutes drive from my big and busy college and from the centre of Plymouth), I have the best of estuary views and a huge corner plot. I grow vegetables and salad stuff- some of which plucked straight from my garden on Monday am, Susanne and I enjoyed in our stir fry last night. Can't get fresher than that! I also grow fruit - apples, pears, damsons, plums, blueberries, gooseberries, raspberries and strawberries. I have a wildlife garden with hedgehogs, slow worms and other wiggly creatures and my darling husband's pride of place, as well as his beloved bamboo on the other side of the garden, is the pond, built on a slope with a waterfall, fish, frogs and newts. In fact the garden does take up quite a lot of my time - hence in truth I cannot ever have the time to become a real blogger.

Other bits of my time are spent with my German shepherd dog called Shadow, who is now almost nine. She's quite a girl and very protective! Bob and I often go to the nearby beach or the local river walks where Shadow loves to dive into the water and then, when she gets out, come and shake all over us. I generally hide behind my Bob, who is over six foot, so he gets the shower.

As most of my friends have similar gardens etc, this is really life in Plymouth, if you chose it. However, what London does have, that we don't have is all the shops. I am not talking about Oxford Street touristy stuff. I am talking about the local high streets in each area, which are filled with such a diversity of shops; I really love them. Sure we do have shops in Plymouth but most are a bit basic in what they sell, whilst the local out of town ones are very basic and boring. I went into two fantastic 'health' food shops the other day in Kentish town. So big and such a variety. I could have spent hours in each one looking at all the things I had not come across before, enjoying the smells of all the spices and organics. However, Suz was in a hurry as we were on our way somewhere so I couldn't browse as much as I would like!

In terms of shops in Devon, what we do have in some of the villages are little quirky shops with the unexpected. Last week, Suz phoned me and asked me to buy a magnetic notice board for her newly 'refurbed' kitchen. Apparently she couldn't find one in London or the Internet (which is the whole world) that was interesting enough. I was in Kingsbridge, a small South Ham's town in Devon, where Bob and I are soon moving to, and found just the thing in one of the 'quirky' 'Aladdin cave' type shops that exist there. It is tasteful, unusual and was the only one of it's kind there. I have never seen one like it before and the price was right. Excellent! Now in case all you London blog readers don't know, that where the saying comes from 'if you can't get what you want anywhere in the world, you will find it in Kingsbridge' :))

I will be blogging more about Kingsbridge before I go....

However, though I could write a book that might be interesting to me and mine, it probably is not interesting to others.

That brings me to my final comment for now about blogging. The thing that really amazes me about blogging is how people respond to what others write. It appears that 'total strangers' get annoyed, or nasty about what my sister writes- yes very nasty and write really abusive stuff - then monitor her blog to write some more. Susanne showed me how she logs the URL locations of the nasty ones and they do all seem to come from the same sources. My thoughts on this are 1. This is Internet bullying/harassment and 2. If you don't like what a blogger is writing then you must be either a sad or a sadistic person to keep reading the blog. Having read the most disgusting ones sent to my sister, I do have a little trick up my sleeve to deal with them. When I get back to Plymouth, some of my very 'tecky' friends have the software and knowledge to be able to pinpoint the actual street locations of the nasty replies. That will be interesting!!

Honouring those WW1 veterans

With the news that WW1 veteran Harry Patch died this weekend aged 111 and as Henry Allingham, died on 18 July, aged 113 media reports the sole British survivor of World War I is now former seaman Claude Choules, who is aged 108 and lives in Perth, Australia.

It's been announced that there will be a special commemorative service attended by the Queen.

The sacrifices of the World War I generation are to be commemorated in a special national service, Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said.

I'm not over gushy about things like that but for once I'm in full support. The thought of living to 113 or even to 100 really freaks me out. One has to really respect these old veterans. Henry Allingham (6 June 1896 - 18 July 2009) is now recorded as the oldest verified man who ever lived. His public funeral with full military honours will take place in Brighton on Thursday 30 July 2009.

Presumably there will be something similar organised for Harry Patch - quite rightly so.

That was the week that was

Start of the week felt so sorry for myself - such a lousy weekend - didn't realise having swine flu would be so energy draining - no wonder they tell you to rest. Couldn't even open a bottle of water and making a cup of tea was boiling the water in a cup microwave job, the kettle was just to heavy to lift. Have been really touched by the telephone calls, emails and Facebook messages from all over the world. Had to deliberately stop some people coming round - caring about me is one thing but they all have small children.

Monday could hardly manage to bath. Would have stayed in bed but quite unexpected the scaffolders arrived to put up the scaffolding in the front supposedly to sort out the guttering. Expecting a knock at the door, wasn't going to have anybody seeing me wrapped in a dressing gown.

Part of me was pleased to see them because with all this heavy rain, the noise of the over- flowing water hitting the front window has been going through my head - thought it would be a quick job and the scaffolding would be struck quickly - no such luck, nothing has happened yet.

My foster mum Maureen tried to cheer me up. At her age she is a marvel, she never rests either. Her good news was that two of her Boxer dogs (Harmaur Pedigree) have qualified to be shown at Crufts next year. Guess I'll be at Birmingham, hope I can take my grandson along this time. He'd love it.

Tuesday - I was counting the days - day time TV becomes boring after a while.

Wednesday the electrician came to sort out the hall lighting - just pressed the buzzer to let him in - thought this time it would be sorted - no need for my checking anything. How wrong I was, he hit the button by the door to put the lights on and unceremoniously left. They have been stuck like that since then.

Wednesday also according to the medical experts was the day I was supposed to feel better. Admittedly the fever had gone and the headache reduced but I still felt like shit. Motivated by a telephone call with the news that early Thursday the new sofa was being delivered. Was quite determined to finish the painting in my flat. Took me hours, bit by bit, resting in between but I did it.

Thursday also saw the last remaining radiator put back. The young plumber had been off work for a week with flu. He however was full of beans while I am still forcing myself to be active - must be an age thing.

Friday still feeling drained - the heavy rain didn't help much. Been successfully downsizing via Freecycle so had another go. In a matter of a few hours everything was snapped up. Out went some of the dust covers, painting tools and at long last the faithful garden lounging chair that has been my only sort of comfortable seat until the sofa arrived. Sad to see it go but felt more sorry for the young German student who came to collect it in the pouring rain. She thought it great so at least it has gone to a good home.

My flat all madeover now looks good even if I say it myself. Now it's a matter of sorting papers and clearing up. My sister arrives Monday - It's almost like I've lost a week in my life.

Partners residents forum 2009/2010

This evening attended the first meeting of Partners Residents Forum's new term. Grateful one of the members came to my flat to accompany me. Still feeling wonky with the tail end of the flu, was thankful for the company - an important meeting but probably wouldn't have attended if he hadn't turned up. Turned out to be one of the most interesting meetings with some new faces on board.

The first issue on the agenda was to decide whether to co-opt those who failed to submit their nomination before the date and time cut off deadline. A ridiculous idea as far as I was concerned - whoever heard of co-opting anybody before a committee has been formally constituted with a chair in place. Why does everything have to have a political twist - Partners have always been very cagey about who these people were, obviously trying to include them through the backdoor - now we know why, it affected our former chair and the vice chair.

The forum doesn't want to lose anybody but rules are rules. In the interest of open transparency, sanity prevailed - with a unanimous vote it was agreed that the forum should follow formal election protocols and co-option of anybody regardless of who they are just has to wait.

The formal election of the chair for a 2 year term was deferred until the next meeting in September. Wasn't in the mood to even debate the issue. We have a young man Michael who is willing to take on the job so it probably won't be a contested election anyway - he was elected chair for the meeting.

The interesting part of the meeting was the new plans for enforcing tenancy condition for those living in social housing. The forum was asked to decide which should take priority. That was easy, unreasonable noise and dogs. It is not just dangerous dogs but the number some people have as pets. Living in close proximity to others, it's not easy for residents when one dog after another can be heard barking at all hours.

Another matter that is near to my heart is what to do about unkempt gardens. Most London street properties have long back gardens. Many residents don't have an interest or can't physically look after them. One housing association has a service charge option and another local borough has a scheme to handover gardens to outside individuals in place of allotments. Something has to be done because many have become just a space for dumping rubbish.

The bureaucracy and red tape that is involved to implement decisions seems to take forever. Sometimes I've wondered if the forum has any real teeth. Not so, it's just takes time to set wheels in motion. One explosive debate last year was the insulation of lofts according to current legislation. There are several members of the forum who are knowledgeable and keep up with all legislation to do with housing. The HFI independent inspections and feedback has now resulted in all properties being rechecked before the winter sets in. The annoying aspect of it all is why did the contractors United House cut corners and not do the work properly in the first place and more important who signed off the properties.

Well the forum has just started it's work so more as it progresses.

Swine flu got me

Why me? I asked myself - Seems I've got swine flu - least that's what the doctors told me anyway. Wednesday night woke up sweating cobs, coughing like mad, having a raging thirst with my body aching all over - couldn't get off the loo.

Took some Beechams hot lemon and stuck a bag of frozen peas on my head. Didn't sleep much so had a hot bath. Later Thursday afternoon forced myself to walk to Archway - just couldn't stop coughing. With all the wet weather just thought I was starting a cold so thought a walk in the fresh air would make me feel better. Had to give way and take a bus back just didn't have the energy to walk - actually thought I was going to faint - could only drag myself back to bed.

Feeling like death warmed up - Friday morning contacted the doctors and was told that as I didn't have a running nose and with all the other symptoms it was swine flu - gosh was completely blown away. Swine flu the dreaded word - who wouldn't be, it was a total shock.

Was informed it is so common round here they have stopped testing people - got to take Paracetamol to reduce the fever and to keep the temperature down however if I have real difficult breathing then and only then it's time to call an ambulance. In the mean time somebody healthy has to go and collect a document entitling me to antiviral medication. Have been advised rest, keep at home as much as possible and avoid close contact with small children.

Well that has put the cybosh on visiting the grandchildren this weekend - was hoping to have a look at their new house now they have moved in. They can't visit me either.

Last night had to wrap myself up in the duvet because I was shivering so much then the fever started again.

Woke up early this morning found the sheets soaking wet AGAIN - thinking of the washing when this is all over. However noticed this irritating cough is not so painful - the headache has eased - body doesn't hurt so much - still don't feel like eating though. and my voice sounds so gruff it's an effort to speak. Brain has not switched back into gear - even typing this is taking me ages - good thing for the save now button

Was thinking how many people around have this flu and don't realise it. Have noticed many people coughing. Not a lover of visiting the doctors - if it wasn't for the high fever I probably wouldn't have bothered contacting them. Seems now I'm listed on their table of swine flu statistics.

Well I'm back to bed...

Britblog Roundup 229

For those who are following the weekly round ups this weeks,

Britblog Roundup 229: The Bumper Office Moving Edition has just been published.

Missed any - you can catch up on other weeks on Britblog Roundup Central

Nominations for any post please send them in to britblog AT gmail DOTcom

She died all alone

From the Tribune this week - Another sad case of somebody dying and not been found for weeks.

Pensioner lay dead for weeks - A RETIRED secretary who was estranged from her children could have lain dead in the living room of her Islington... > more

Everytime I hear or read story like this it really disturbs me. It is not the actual death but the chilling thought of somebody being so isolated and dying on their own with their body not being discovered for weeks, months sometimes years is just horrible.

There have been a couple of cases round here over the past few months. Even now everytime I go near the two properties I can't help but think about them.

Scaffolding is to be put back!

A scaffolding tower is to be erected in the front of this property again - that's official. What a nightmare!

The heavy rain over the past week may be a welcome relief to some people after all the heat and gardeners will appreciate the weather. From my flat all I can say it's like living under a heavy waterfall.

When the scaffolding was up and the roof was being retiled cement poured down and hit my left hand front window. Was told they would clean the guttering and the window before they took the scaffolding down. Who am I to argue about something so logical.

The lower level guttering over the bay window also, listing the wrong way from the drainage down pipe so somebody in their wisdom propped it up with a loose brick.

Windows cleaned, scaffolding struck (down) everybody cheered. No sign of rain until we had a tropical storm and hailstones a few hours after my carpets were laid. Windows slightly open, a waterfall from the gutter above directly over the front room window hit the window box resulting in mud and water coming into my flat. What a mess - I was just furious - who wouldn't be - my lovely new carpet. 7.30 pm on a Saturday night to be washing muddy curtains just 2 hours after putting them back is absurd.

The following Monday the external supervisor shrugged it off with the glib answer that the guttering couldn't take excess water. Hate to be taken as a fool but his response didn't make sense. Water overflowing from a gutter would normally follow the incline of a building and overflow from one side of a building of another not from a bend in the guttering in the front of the building. Just knew he was talking from his backside but to prove it had to wait for more rain. It was obvious what was disturbing him - access to sort out the problem needs a scaffolding tower to be erected again which will delay the final signing off of the works in this property. After he left somebody removed the brick at the lower level but didn't clip the scaffolding. Don't know if the person who instructed it to be done thought the problem would go away. Sorry not on my watch.

I was hopping mad he hadn't taken it seriously - just knew what would happen when the rain started again.

Rain day after day - just heavy showers but the overflow has not stopped. Now everybody has seen the problem. The water pouring from the top guttering and the now second smaller fall from the lower level guttering. My window is caked with mud. What is the solution - Obviously a scaffolding tower. It's so infuriating it is not a case of a tower quickly being erected work done then the scaffolding taken down. The company has so much work on there is a queue of bookings.

This property is now in the queue - the tower is to be erected by the communal front door and lower level front bay window - but when it is to happen is the question? It is raining everyday and the water fall is constant. All the appologies in the world at the moment have completely gone over my head. It shouldn't have happened the new guttering and old downpipes should have been checked for blockage before the scaffolding came down - now to face all this hassle is just so infuriating.

Wednesday: Islington Conservatives open evening

Islington Conservatives have been advertising for people in the local papers. A novel way of making the local electorate aware that they are now active in the borough specially in the South. They are certainly making waves and people are noticing their activities.

I'm touched to have been invited by a local Tory friend - will be going to see what it is all about. Have been told that many people have made contact expressing interest. I'm curious as well to see how many other party moles will turn up as well.

PFI - It's coming to an end in this property

Such lovely hot weather - found I'm losing weight without even trying just because I don't feel like eating much. Not a fan of stodge - chips, baked beans, meat, bread or sugary soft drinks at the best of times - no oil for frying in my flat. Found it less stressful in the heat to buy the pots of fruit & salad in bags they now sell everywhere - prefer black tea to water or juice anytime. Mind you found diet Red Bull a quick pick me up - tastes good when cold.

Still struggling to finish the painting in between normal life - on the last room now. Amazing what you find behind radiators. Had to have them removed and drained to decorate behind because they are not the same size as the original ones. Wondering how old is the hideous flower wallpaper in the photo. No choice but the strip it all off.

Carpets came last Saturday for the rooms done - bit pricey but looks classy. Had to wait until Monday to have the door removed and shaved - wouldn't close. Bit spooky leaving one's flat door open for two days but it's really quite safe up so high. At the same time they fixed the new door threshold I'd purchased - looks good. No stress for them now having to look for a new one.

Still waiting for the new sofa - 25 days delivery time. My fault should have ordered it earlier. On impulse bought myself a new computer chair. The good ones are not cheap but a modern style one on sale at half price I couldn't resist. That was delivered in two days so I've somewhere comfortable to sit for a while

All the damaged bits that need to be replaced in my flat I managed to find locally. Couldn't be bothered waiting anymore. There's an old fashioned Aladdin's cave kind of shop for everything DIY and household in Kentish Town. The toilet seat I found half price at Homebase so that was sorted. Mind you the bathroom sink plug and chain has been jinxed. How do workers managed to break a chain for the third time. Was quite determined to find a strong one. Took the plug along with me to a proper plumbing suppliers. What a sweetheart - the young man who served me not only found a strong chain but fitted it to a new plug without charging me for the plug. Must have been my story and the builders in the queue making jokes about it - have to admit it's not everyday you see a granny carrying a plug into a wholesalers.

Told you can claim the money back but honestly it's not worth the hassle - the workers have done so many nice bits in my flat it seems a bit of a cheek on my part.

The final signing off for the works on this property is expected this week. Will be sure glad when it is over. Must be honest have been a bit of a nag making sure the bits get finished - I'm the one with the key to the communal front door and to keep waiting in all the time is irritating. Least the workers know where to find me parts of the day - makes me laugh when they come across the road to collect me for the key.

What I'm waiting for now is for the hall lights to be sorted out before then. The electrician came to rewire the communal lights and switches - asked them to leave the modern switches but somehow he didn't do the connections correctly so now only the one by the door in the hall works. Ok when it is light but at night it's a bit hairy up and down the stairs. One of the only two workers who really annoyed me - an electrician with attitude - well he or somebody has to sort it out.

Pleased the famous front boundary wall didn't have to come down and be rebuilt. The brickies came to cement some of the ground back and front - looks great. They fixed the wall with some special adhesive - was told it should last another 15 years even in it's bent shape. Least it's not wobbling anymore - demo kicks convinced me.

The assets inspector gave me a nice compliment. Said there has been minimal snagging on this property because I'm on the case as works are being done so many things have been picked up on the way making the over all effect look impressive. Should think so to - was told there is another lady like me in one of the properties somewhere in Highbury. Would love to meet her. Was very surprised to be told many residents just leave workers to get on with it and when things are not done correctly or go wrong they moan afterwards. What does it cost to pick up a phone and report a problem so it can be rectified quickly - less stress all round.

Friday this week, the weather slightly cooler, was able to test out the cable hooks and cut the grass - works brilliantly. The young plumber also adjusted the garden tap connection so when it is turned on the pipe from my flat does not make that awful rattling sound. Was able to wash down the place a bit. Garden has been a bit neglected of late but you can't do everything. Will have to try and fit it in somehow because it's the first thing my sister will want to see when she comes to stay this month. She's one of those who like tea and eating outside in the garden.

Have to wait and see what happens this week but for now it's back to the painting.

Beware of strangers at the door

There are reports this week in our local paper of bogus window cleaners conning their way into people flats and stealing money. It is so irritating reading these stories...

Bogus window cleaners raiding homes
POLICE are warning residents of burglars posing as window cleaners after a recent spate of thefts.... »

Sadly people are so trusting. Can't imagine letting two strange men into my flat without first checking their ID cards or knowing where they are from. I'm also very surprised in this day and age of cards how much money people do leave lying around.

Just this week had to spend some time with my small grandchildren. A man turned up with a big bag of tools saying he had come to check the gas installation and meter. As my son and family are moving soon thought it had something to do with that. However as I am not familiar with the area and didn't know the company I insisted he show me his ID and some documentation to prove he was genuine. Sure wasn't going to let him in without.

He very obligingly went to his van, clearly marked with the company logo and tel numbers, to collect it. Took him some time to fish out the paperwork - he apologised for the delay explaining that it is rare he's ever asked for an ID so keeps everything in his van for safe keeping. Only after inspecting it all did I let him in.

His statement really got me thinking - people are far too trusting. There is so much information out there about being safe in your home but obviously many people don't take any notice believing it will never happen to them.

More family stuff

Bit of disappointing news, cousin Ron and his wife Tini can't travel to UK for the summer - they were due to arrive at LHR this evening.

His daughters Julie and Alison together with Julie's husband went out to Cyprus to see him last month - real tear-jerking stories but they loved it.

Tini must of over exerted herself making the trip so memorable for them - meeting their dad again after so many wasted years. She fell somehow in the early hours and has really injured herself. Was touch and go at first but now she is at least in the land of the living but is to have an operation to pin her shoulder together. Poor Ron has been in bits - can't imagine how he's been feeling after all these years together. Least he's a dab hand at email so he has been keeping everybody informed almost on a daily basis. Their son Nick posted photos of her injury on Facebook - the bruising is horrific.

Everybody is so furious with BA because there is no refund or change of date on their Business Class tickets - something to do with rules about buying tickets online. Honestly would have thought they could have done something when it comes to special circumstances like that especially when it concerns elderly people.

Well my sister Anne-louise is still coming to London but will have to telephone around those that have been expecting to see him. Hope he can make it next year - you never know what life will bring - not sure if I'll be able to take my trip out there either now.

One good thing I'd completely forgot about. My fathers war medals arrived. Didn't know surviving next of kin could collect parents medals free of charge. Had to fill out a long form and sign some docs as the eldest surviving child. What a strange pecking order of inheritance they have. They warn you that the search process can take weeks but it has been several months now. Suddenly they arrived unexpectedly by special delivery. All in little boxes making one feel so proud just looking at them - especially the one for bravery. Haven't really had chance to investigate what they are for yet - there is no explanation how or when he received them - have them tucked away for when sis arrives - she'll probably call our family soldier, her son Matthew.

She is also soon moving from Plymouth. Seems sad they should leave that lovely house after so much work they have put in it. She was looking though family photos and found a batch of my daughter Jaycee (Jasmina) who died. All these years, I've really struggled mentally when dealing with small girls - nobody knows what it feels like to lose a child unless it happens to them - the pain never goes. I've only got one small photo of her. However have to accept that it is something I've got to try and get over somehow. Having a granddaughter has helped a lot but as her middle name is after Jaycee, when she gets older she's bound to ask me about her - she can already say her full name.

Anne-louise's brother-in-law, a photographer is making a framed wall collage with the photos. Still don't know how I'm going to handle it but I will put it up on the wall hoping one day I won't burst in tears every time I think about her.

My sisters interest is the tree and all the certificates I've collected. Am looking forward to the summer break to do some more work on it. Have many distant relations on hold at the moment - one relation I found sent me a load of certs via email saving me a lot of money and I've got the ones he needs. It is the scanning that takes the time.

More on all that for another post....

Swine flue case at local school

There are reports in the local news that pupils from several schools in Camden have been struck down with swine flue. Monday kids from the local Acland Burghley School, in Burghley Road, were talking about one of their pupils who has tested positive for H1N1 strain of the virus and is currently recovering at home.

With the end of the year exams in process the school hasn't yet been closed down. However Tuesday several students could be seen carrying small bottles of disinfectant hand gel.

Bit unnerving - will certainly try to avoid anybody sneezing around me over the next few weeks.

Nearing the end of PFI in this property

Wonderful! today the scaffolding was finally removed from around this property. The scaffolders arrived early morning - in panic mode thought they had forgotten about fitting the special external hooks so the extension cable from my flat can be lowered to ground level and hooked away from the flat below. A special size drill bit was needed for the job. A race against time but like a knight in shining amour the snagging supervisor and another worker arrived with the bit and fixed the hooks. Was chuffed to bits - Now officially approved there should be no more aggro over my using the extension cable to cut the grass or the pressure hose to clean up the place.

With no scaffolding what a difference it has made to the whole place. Sparkling windows the light coming in through is a welcome relief. Least now I can see clearly to continue painting the sitting room.

Can't even think of the stress I've been though the past few weeks. Couldn't even get to my computer - stuck under white protection sheeting while the painting has been going on it was impossible to do anything. So many people phoning from all over asking what happened to me - no blog posts, face book posts or emails. Well I'm back now.

Have to give the contractors credit for the personal consideration - Tuesday by special arrangement my flat and the external building finally was signed off by officialdom at the same time. After explaining a sudden personal emergency situation the contractors bent over backwards to coordinated it all the same day. Had to smile when the external inspector said the blown front wall had to come down and be rebuilt. The site supervisor said they would try and do it the next day. Thought he was being a bit optimistic - Didn't think it was possible to be organised so quickly, there are costing consideration with extra works but yours truly in the evening rushed to cut the over grown hedge in preparation and phoned early Wednesday to let them know it had been done.

Tuesday also a rep from Renubath Services turned up. During all the moving about of my 'white goods' and work on the bathroom window the enamel on my bath and washing machine got chipped. Was so put out thinking the bath would have to be replaced again. Was reassured after the touch up I wouldn't noticed a thing - before then, hadn't know such specialist companies existed. Definitely a skill for somebody with an artistic background - so interesting watching him match up the white from the white pots range and mix the special enamel paint. Using the finest of brushes you now can't see a mark even at close up.

BT also came to sort out the telephone and Internet connection. The installation must have been over 20 years ago and most of the wiring hidden under the floor boards was shot, taped together in damaged places.

What remains to be done now is the just the ground level work - obviously the wall and some of the damaged paving stones are on the list. Then there's the external security lighting, including touching up the hallway - so many bods coming and going they are are some marks on the wall. Looks lovely with the dark grey heavy duty carpet and brush matting by the door - cost a bomb but well worth it.

Finally will be the drain. The down flow from the flats above ground level especially from the bath takes forever. Sometimes the washing machine doesn't empty properly either. Hope one of the other residents will book the appointment.

My job now is to finish painting the sitting room so the new carpet can be laid and the sofa can be delivered next week. Another race against time because my sister is coming to stay for a week. My granddaughter bless her asked me yesterday if the new sofa will be big enough for her to sleep on. Both grandchildren are keen to see what has been done to nana's flat as well.

Need to get some photos taken - just found my camera under the white protection sheets.
to be continued....

Brtitblog roundup 224: End of Half Term version

Typing a roundup squashed in a chair surrounded by boxes and builders junk is a real endurance test. It's so damn hot and the windows have stuck - painters eh!

Still another couple of weeks to go before the refurb in my flat and the building is completed - the stress is doing my head in. The smell of the paint is like the smell of bleach - not doing my allergies any good.

End of half term - school starts Monday ending the peace n' quiet around here. The European elections are Thursday - Just sent off my postal vote. With many people disillusioned with the three main political parties and voters looking for alternative choices, the possibility of a BNP candidate being elected to represent the UK in Brussels is a sickening concept - Real stomach churning their Billy Brit’ videos.

According to Natalie Bennett the obvious voting alternative - Why are people voting Green?

Labours Penny Red is certainly not a David Cameron fan - Shiny Dave and the Lightweight's Cant.

Still on the European Elections, Ranting Stan says, If not UKIP then who? The latest polls look grim for Brown - with one suggesting that they are likely to come third behind UKIP with just 16% of the vote - but the same polls are not exactly inspiring for the Tories as they are expected to collect a mere 30%.

Seems the good weather is bring out the adventurous spirit in some bloggers. Jonathan on his latest trip - I find home for well behaved orphans

The Langtons - Church Langton, Thorpe Langton, Tur Langton, East Langton and (though it is only a few houses) West Langton - are a group of villages in Leicestershire, a few miles north of Market Harborough. Like so much of the eastern side of this county, they are beautiful but hardly known.

Diamond Geezer's been walking in EppingForest - So, walking boots laced and map in hand, I took the train out to Epping and set off from there on a ten mile stroll. And blimey, why did I wait so long? Crikey a ten miles stroll! - couldn't get me to do it for all the tea in China

Again Roy Booth - On an impulse, cycling past on an unaccustomed route back from work, I stopped at the church at Winkfield, a couple of miles south-west of Windsor, and was rewarded by seeing this brass plaque to Thomas Montague 1630 A real yeoman of the guard... the plaque says he had lived almost 92 yeares - wonders! thought they had a short lifespan back then. What a strange way they spelt the words years as well.

Back to politics - Alan Johnson's suggestion that the voting system be changed so the results will more accurately reflect the voting intentions of the electorate has certainly hit home - make votes count.

From Cabalamat - Since everyone seems to be giving politicians advice regarding the constitutional crisis, I thought I’d have a go, in an open letter to Alan Johnson, the Secretary of State for Health, who recently called for a referendum on proportional representation.

Another post about Alan Johnson's bold move. The system proposed, Jenkins' AV+, is certainly an improvement on the existing model, although less clear and less democratic than STV.

Me-wonders how many voters actually understand the different voting system.

Crammer in his usual style has really touched a raw nerve. It's political correctness gone bonkers. Why on earth are the BBC cow towing to the Muslim Council of Britain - BBC offers apology and £30,000. As a regular viewer of Question Time can't see what all the fuss is about.

The Parliamentary 'Expenses Scandal' continues to hit the head lines - who is next we ask? The big question now. What about union expenses? Why Are Union Leaders So Quiet?

What a strange comparison - Caterpillars or people Whichever way you look at it, it's still an invasion costing the government money.

Local politics - Literally across the road from me, Kentish Town ward - JimJay writes Fear not, you haven't seen the last of Georgia Gould

Georgia Gould, 23, whose father is former New Labour pollster Lord Gould and whose mother is the publishing supremo Gail Rebuck, was picked on Tuesday night to fight Kentish Town ward at May’s council elections

Tip for all those gardeners out there - how to sharpen your garden shears. Sorry folks but there are millions like me who can't be bothered with the hassle - give me an electric hedge cutter anytime. I know the in word - Green, green, green but sometime being green is just too inconvenient.

Adding a bit of colour to this post is a photo of my garden - that's all I can contribute this week - hope you like it?

A wrenching story of pain, Jake talks through her family’s reactions to learning she was sexually abused by her father a so called good person- I am an incest survivor

My family narrative is also that I am just wrong, my sexuality, my theology, my politics, that I am manipulative, a drama queen, crazy, so the conclusion was drawn, not that I am crazy in part because he raped me, but that I accused him of rape because I am crazy.

Cruella writes the truth about antenatal classes and birth.

The f-word blogs is very popular this week with a rash of nominations - An advertising gimmick to make money Gendering food & Beauty Pageants. Don't know why feminists bang on about Pageants - All that glits and glamour - millions love them including many women.

Another feminist post but this time spot on - Humourless feminazi *2: why it's not about you. Men need to stop interpreting every mutter of the word 'misogyny' as a personal attack: it isn't, not even for those feminists who DO see men as oppressors. It might come as a shock to some of you, but most feminists do not spend their time plotting ways to undermine men.

On the subject of Stonewall

Gay equality campaigning is about to change direction. This month marks two decades since Stonewall was first founded – and heralds a new era in the recent history of rapid advances towards lesbian, gay and bisexual equality. So Stonewall's focus shifts from changing the law to changing social attitudes.

Another subject that gets right up people's nose - Atheist Bashing. Just wish Atheists would keep their opinions to themselves though.

Nanny state gone mad - Ken Frost's Prat of the Week award - the danger of Fish and Chips

Lakenfields is a sheltered housing complex for elderly people. It has a good community spirit, whereby each week George Pretty (72) would do a fish and chip shop run and bring back fish and chips for his 18 fellow residents who were not able to get out. Can you guess what happened next children? Yes, that's right, the health and safety gestapo decreed that there may be a health and safety risk wrt the ambient temperature of the fish and chips.

Finally a very witty post - hard to keep ones lips buttoned

Heathrow staff are on the whole, incredibly rude. They practically invite abuse. Especially in the security areas. Now airport security is AN IMPORTANT AND SERIOUS THING, but it seems to be that with every person you meet along the way, the rudeness builds accumulating to tolerance bursting levels in the average traveler. If Jesus Christ were to be trying to catch a flight from Heathrow to Jerusalem (Easyjet for sure. He likes to be with "the people"...) even he'd end up taking a paddy somewhere along the line. He may even use his own name in vain.

Well that's all for this week

Next week's Roundup will be in the care of Mick Fealty over at Brassneck. He's such a brilliant writer will nodoubt be an interesting read. Send your nominations, as ever, to britblog [at] gmail [dot] com.