I'm working on two Blogs at the moment. This one on line, and the Second in WORD. I have mentioned previously the importance of oral history being placed in written form so that our descendants know a bit more about us and what we were up to and why.
The same position applies to the Internet. What we write on an electronic Blog is as vulnerable as oral history. The demise of a provider or its server and what was written is lost. It's continuity is no different than oral history in that the stories rely upon the memory of others and their desire or willingness to communicate those stories. I have therefore copied and pasted the whole of this Blog from 2008 until April 2011 into a WORD document.
The 300 pages have been given a title page, and an introduction. I have begun the next phase whereby I try and explain why I wrote what I did. This is being achieved by writing a link between entries or to explain a group of entries. The links are in a different font than the original Blog so it is clear what has been added. The original photographs have also been embedded into WORD. All in all it's an attempt to contextualise the writing and help our descendants to understand what it was all about.
The finished work is being bound in a leather dissertation binder. The idea being that it sits alongside my ongoing Family History work when that is complete. Two books that will inform others about us.
11 May 2011
Roll of Honour
Is the compilation of a Roll of Honour in the Public Domain with ready access getting any closer? The Secretary to the President of Ghana has copied me in on a letter to the Hon. Minister, Ministry of Defence, Accra asking the Minister to action providing details or access to a Roll of Honour for those Ghanaians that have perished during United Nations Peacekeeping activities.
I shall update the Blog with names and dates as soon as they become available. Meanwhile, a big thank you to the secretary to the President for giving the matter serious consideration and tasking others to assist in what I consider to be an essential element of the civilizing process from Colonialism to Statehood.
I shall update the Blog with names and dates as soon as they become available. Meanwhile, a big thank you to the secretary to the President for giving the matter serious consideration and tasking others to assist in what I consider to be an essential element of the civilizing process from Colonialism to Statehood.
10 May 2011
Japan
Greetings to the surfer from Shinjuku in Japan that recently visited the Blog. I hope that you and your countrymen are slowly overcoming the dreadful natural disaster that affected your country.
Season 7
I know that I am supposed to be writing about Isandlwana and its aftermath, but I have been a tad busy of late with that thing that doesn’t get mentioned here. Don’t worry, there’s no Super-Injunction in place on me, and I’m not a rich personality, although my personality may sometimes be a bit rich. No, it’s more of a case that while things could be resolved I see no reason to dig a ditch. Dialogue and negotiation reduces tensions and deescalates the rhetoric from both sides. Talking is good and can solve many problems. I suppose that sometimes it also causes a few problems as well. People have to be talking from the same storyboard, and repetition has to be accurate. The African tradition of oral history relies upon the accurately recalling of the stories and trying to ensure that events are not lost in time.
We were chatting about family history last night, and some of the things that we told one of our daughters she had never heard. Some of course, for various reasons, simply cannot be published, but quite a few of the stories brought about a few laughs. So maybe it’s (life) not that bad after all. I thought that this would be a good time to post a trio of family stories and try to link them in some way to create a bit of interest. So here goes, I was thinking along the lines of a few common denominators; wheels, reduced numbers, and my bro.
Four wheels
The 2011 grass cutting is Season 7 for my petrol driven lawnmower. It’s a lovely thing that I found in the skip when I was visiting my brothers quite a few years back. I asked if I could have the lawnmower and although the answer was ‘yes’, there was at the time two significant downsides. (1) It wasn’t working, and (2) my lovely new Volvo with its light coloured leather upholstery was stuffed full of Daughters University stuff from England being brought back home to Wales by yours truly. So we tipped out any residue oil and petrol, covered the backseat leather with blankets and somehow managed to manoeuvre the lawnmower into the S40. About a week later and only £20 lighter, the missing 4th wheel was welded back onto the axle, and a new fan belt meant that the lawnmower worked. Here we are in Season 7 and as the lawnmower fires up first time at the start of each Season, I am extremely grateful to my bro. It’s not that I couldn’t afford to go out and buy my own, no it’s not that at all. The gratitude is all about salvaging someone else’s junk, and making good use of it for many years to come. Indeed, there’s a fair chance that the lawnmower may get a spray job this winter ready for next Season. Maybe red with sharks teeth or some WWII air art.
Three wheels
The second of my trio of family blasts from the past is about my father driving a road roller. These lumbering beasts of a machine have a solid turning rolling wheel at the front and two large fixed wheels either side of the main body towards the rear. Three wheels and no rubber, the driver sits high up in an almost open cab and if they are lucky have a sprung seat. Yes folks we are talking ‘big’ road rollers here, and not the diminutive ones often seen these days. Now don’t ask me what my brother was doing in the cab with dad, it doesn’t make any sense as the cabs only have a single seat. But nevertheless bro was with dad in Swansea trundling down a very long hill. Except that the trundling became a sort of freefall as the brakes on the road roller failed. Now I’m reasonably intelligent and understand physics and the like, but what I cannot explain, is what possessed my father and brother to determine in an instant that bro should jump? It doesn’t make any sense at all.
Massive road roller with massive front wheel is sort of going to demolish anything that it hits. I suppose the only vehicle that would create a similar impact would be a Centurion tank. Bro jumped and broke a bone or two and was lucky not to be crushed by one of the rear wheels. “And the road roller?” you ask, well come on folks do I really have to explain? Gravity ensured that it rolled onwards to the bottom of the hill, and its mass meant that it demolished a wall. For my part I am grateful that bro or dad did not come to an early demise.
Two wheels
Family stories should be about our oral history becoming embedded into written form so that future generations know a bit more about their ancestors. I giggle when I recall the lawnmower and road roller stories as they say a bit about fortune and misfortune and interpretation of events at that moment in time.
Who would have thought that the lawnmower in the skip would have been repaired so cheaply and go on to give excellent service for many years to come. And a bit like putting the thing in the skip, why on earth did bro jump?
I suppose on both accounts, decisions were made at each moment in time based on the information and assessment of that information by those that were in a position to make a decision.
We had a family member who died in a bike crash, and I remember as a young man, I wanted to have a motorbike. Well nothing strange there then, because girls and motorbikes were the order of the day. Given that I wasn’t able to get and keep the one, trying to get the other seemed at the time to be a good idea. When selecting a two wheeled story linked to my bro, I could of course have written about my butchers bike from my Saturday job, or bro standing the terms so that I could buy a Carlton 5 speed racing bike while I paid him back from my Saturday job, of which I am also extremely grateful.
But the thing is I found a guarantor for that motorbike purchase and I am extremely grateful that bro changed their mind and stopped the bike idea stone dead. Because if he hadn’t: then it might have been me travelling downhill without brakes and ending up in a skip.
14 April 2011
Statistics
Since I began writing the Blog back in 2008, readers from a total of 39 countries have read the material. The Blog Reader leader board by Country is taken up by the United Kingdom, the United States of America, Ghana, Brazil, and Canada. Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, India, and Italy also appear in the top ten countries.
Visitors from 204 cities in these 39 countries have read the Blog.
The most number of visitors live in the cities of London (England), Birmingham (England), Cardiff (Wales), Accra (Ghana), and Chicago (USA). Readers from overseas are led by those from Accra and Chicago, but there is also a strong readership from Pelotas (Brazil).
Readers also come from all sub parts of the Continent of Africa i.e. Northern, Western, Southern, and Middle Africa. But for natural reasons the predominant readership of this Blog on the African continent is from Western Africa, and in particular, Ghana.
Visitors from 204 cities in these 39 countries have read the Blog.
The most number of visitors live in the cities of London (England), Birmingham (England), Cardiff (Wales), Accra (Ghana), and Chicago (USA). Readers from overseas are led by those from Accra and Chicago, but there is also a strong readership from Pelotas (Brazil).
Readers also come from all sub parts of the Continent of Africa i.e. Northern, Western, Southern, and Middle Africa. But for natural reasons the predominant readership of this Blog on the African continent is from Western Africa, and in particular, Ghana.
13 April 2011
Having a Picnic
Ian Knight is a superb author and I urge you to pick up one or more of his books. With this particular read, I’m at that stage of the story where the British have invaded Zululand for no good reason other than their desire for expanded colonialism and the theft of land and resources in Africa. Picking a fight with the innocent is one thing, but the British invasion has already resulted in the murder of many Zulu’s while part of Chelmsford’s army is still camped under the shadow of Isandlwana. Lord Chelmsford has split his force and has gone on what appears to be his usual forage into the African wilderness. On this occasion he dines for breakfast while his soldiers are busy killing Africans. The reader is informed that the General’s French Cook is back at Isandlwana, and that the General and his staff were reduced to eating what they carried, and dining with the utensils and facilities that could be placed inside their sacks.
This all in all is not too bad a thing, as some of his soldiers did not have breakfast that day, and had not had supper or dinner the previous day. Indeed, those who were fortunate to have left Isandlwana on this particular foray into the wilderness had been reduced to biscuits and the sharing of a 1lb tin of salmon the previous day. Nevertheless, although hungry they would escape the butchery that occurred back at the camp. In contrast to the tea, biscuits and tinned salmon carried by the British, the Zulu army had marched on a few head of beef and a few slaughtered goats. We are told that this was not sufficient to feed the African Zulu army, and the cattle supplied by the Zulu King was supplemented with “raw meat, pumpkins, roasted mealies gourds full of curdled milk” carried by younger members of the family, (Ian Knight, 2010 p.266) and the livestock and the grain pits that the Zulu army was able to raid along the way. The modern reader can well imagine the logistical difficulties facing the Zulu nation in defending their land, culture, and well being against the British aggression. The English held the upper hand in logistical preparation, modern armaments, the creation of a monetary economy in which to buy wagons and to hire skilled drivers, money to lease solid structures in which to house soldiers, ammunition, and provisions. The British did not have crops to worry about or cattle to tend. Plus of course, the unnecessary and brutal invasion was on a date and time of their choosing. The invasion was deliberately timed to coincide with crop difficulties facing the Zulu nation. The existence of a Violence Monopoly fuelled Colonialism, which was a terrible thing, and I am certainly glad that it was not executed in my name.
I suspect that Lord Chelmsford was not dining on pumpkin, roasted mealies, or tinned salmon when he settled down on that grassy knoll to indulge in a spot of breakfast while the murderous affair continued to the fore. Indeed, although Chelmsford was focused to events to the front, he was not the only person now engaged in brutal activity, and although he did not fully comprehend the situation at that time, the butchery was actually going on all around him. Nevertheless, he saw no sound reason to break from his breakfast, and we can only speculate as to what delights he enjoyed on that particular African morning.
This all in all is not too bad a thing, as some of his soldiers did not have breakfast that day, and had not had supper or dinner the previous day. Indeed, those who were fortunate to have left Isandlwana on this particular foray into the wilderness had been reduced to biscuits and the sharing of a 1lb tin of salmon the previous day. Nevertheless, although hungry they would escape the butchery that occurred back at the camp. In contrast to the tea, biscuits and tinned salmon carried by the British, the Zulu army had marched on a few head of beef and a few slaughtered goats. We are told that this was not sufficient to feed the African Zulu army, and the cattle supplied by the Zulu King was supplemented with “raw meat, pumpkins, roasted mealies gourds full of curdled milk” carried by younger members of the family, (Ian Knight, 2010 p.266) and the livestock and the grain pits that the Zulu army was able to raid along the way. The modern reader can well imagine the logistical difficulties facing the Zulu nation in defending their land, culture, and well being against the British aggression. The English held the upper hand in logistical preparation, modern armaments, the creation of a monetary economy in which to buy wagons and to hire skilled drivers, money to lease solid structures in which to house soldiers, ammunition, and provisions. The British did not have crops to worry about or cattle to tend. Plus of course, the unnecessary and brutal invasion was on a date and time of their choosing. The invasion was deliberately timed to coincide with crop difficulties facing the Zulu nation. The existence of a Violence Monopoly fuelled Colonialism, which was a terrible thing, and I am certainly glad that it was not executed in my name.
I suspect that Lord Chelmsford was not dining on pumpkin, roasted mealies, or tinned salmon when he settled down on that grassy knoll to indulge in a spot of breakfast while the murderous affair continued to the fore. Indeed, although Chelmsford was focused to events to the front, he was not the only person now engaged in brutal activity, and although he did not fully comprehend the situation at that time, the butchery was actually going on all around him. Nevertheless, he saw no sound reason to break from his breakfast, and we can only speculate as to what delights he enjoyed on that particular African morning.
12 April 2011
Sense of Duty
Yes of course I am thrilled with the listing in ‘Burkes Peerage and Gentry’. Especially as I often portray myself as ‘a lad from the gasworks’. I am without any doubt; a Crindau Boy through and through. But the truth of the matter, is that members of our family have often been referred to ‘as having a posh accent’, and one that does not correlate to our South Wales origins. I was born in Swansea and our arm of the ‘Bennett’ Clan moved to Newport Monmouthshire (Gwent) as the motorway and road network improved in the 1960’s. Not because the road improvements facilitated migration, but because my father worked driving a road roller. As the road windfall ceased, Sydney Bennett became a guard with British Railways. Again, geography and circumstance played its part, as BR had a depot in Newport Monmouthshire.
Migration for work in South Wales was not only a 20th Century thing. My research into our family history shows ‘shipsworths’ migrating from Swansea towards Newport Monmouthshire and Risca as part of the property construction boom. Although one unfortunate soul, at a very young age, found himself down the coal mines when that part of the family put down roots around Risca. There probably wasn’t enough carpentry work to go around, and the handing down of skills to a younger generation of family members was starting to cease. Education and the coin became the order of the day.
The provision of education is quite interesting. When you look at the early Census records, they show that our particular arm of the Bennett’s had sufficient money to provide education for a child rather than sending them out to seek work. To put that into context we are talking about the turn of the Century. So maybe an entry in ‘Burkes Peerage and Gentry’ is not that farfetched after all. The building industry was thriving and Granddad Bennett as a Master Mason and Head of the Clan had built up a significant size building firm.
Ernest Llewellyn Bennett enjoyed the trappings that his success brought. I know that in 1917 our family had a motor vehicle. Not many people had a car in those days, and the occupants of passing vehicles in South Wales would certainly have waved to one another. It maybe a family myth, but my father often mentioned that he had a pet monkey as a child. I also know that he displayed a sense of duty to ‘King and Country’ and as the storm clouds of war gathered, my father enlisted in the Army. Sydney Bennett was present in France during The Phoney War. That period from 1939 that had little action while a standoff existed on that front. Sydney was struck down with Scarlet Fever and after 18 months of illness and convalescence he was medically discharged from the Army. However his sense of duty was intense, and to serve his King and country, Sydney enrolled as a firefighter for the rest of the Second World War.
To be quite honest, Sydney Allen Douglas Bennett deserves a place in ‘Burke’s Peerage and Gentry’ far more than I do. But I am nevertheless extremely grateful, and I also know that he and others in our family would be very proud indeed.
Migration for work in South Wales was not only a 20th Century thing. My research into our family history shows ‘shipsworths’ migrating from Swansea towards Newport Monmouthshire and Risca as part of the property construction boom. Although one unfortunate soul, at a very young age, found himself down the coal mines when that part of the family put down roots around Risca. There probably wasn’t enough carpentry work to go around, and the handing down of skills to a younger generation of family members was starting to cease. Education and the coin became the order of the day.
The provision of education is quite interesting. When you look at the early Census records, they show that our particular arm of the Bennett’s had sufficient money to provide education for a child rather than sending them out to seek work. To put that into context we are talking about the turn of the Century. So maybe an entry in ‘Burkes Peerage and Gentry’ is not that farfetched after all. The building industry was thriving and Granddad Bennett as a Master Mason and Head of the Clan had built up a significant size building firm.
Ernest Llewellyn Bennett enjoyed the trappings that his success brought. I know that in 1917 our family had a motor vehicle. Not many people had a car in those days, and the occupants of passing vehicles in South Wales would certainly have waved to one another. It maybe a family myth, but my father often mentioned that he had a pet monkey as a child. I also know that he displayed a sense of duty to ‘King and Country’ and as the storm clouds of war gathered, my father enlisted in the Army. Sydney Bennett was present in France during The Phoney War. That period from 1939 that had little action while a standoff existed on that front. Sydney was struck down with Scarlet Fever and after 18 months of illness and convalescence he was medically discharged from the Army. However his sense of duty was intense, and to serve his King and country, Sydney enrolled as a firefighter for the rest of the Second World War.
To be quite honest, Sydney Allen Douglas Bennett deserves a place in ‘Burke’s Peerage and Gentry’ far more than I do. But I am nevertheless extremely grateful, and I also know that he and others in our family would be very proud indeed.
11 April 2011
Burke's Peerage and Gentry
If anyone reading this Blog is signed up to Burke's Peerage and Gentry, then I would love to see a copy of the full text assigned to my name, so that I can check it over and let them know if any of the details are wrong. You can contact me via rba@hotmail.co.uk
:-)
:-)
Happy Days
Today as also been a 'Happy Day', the unseasonal hot weather is a delight. I have managed to cut the grass, weed the paths, oil the garden furniture, do some DIY in the shade, and pop off into town to stroll the length of the promenade before reading a few more chapters of Zulu Rising. This time it was in Costa and not Cafe Nero, because of course I am now back in Aberystwyth.
It was also 'Happy Days' when I happened to stumble across my entry in Burke's Peerage and Gentry. If I could afford the fees, then I would sign up and check the accuracy of what is written under my name. Although the opening segment that appeared in a Google search seems pretty accurate to me:
Happy Days indeed; sunshine, health, good coffee, a great book, and fame at last.
It was also 'Happy Days' when I happened to stumble across my entry in Burke's Peerage and Gentry. If I could afford the fees, then I would sign up and check the accuracy of what is written under my name. Although the opening segment that appeared in a Google search seems pretty accurate to me:
ROGER BENNETT [Roger Bennett Esq, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Ceredigion County Command, Trefechan, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion SY23 1BE, Wales]; born Swansea; educated U of Centl Lancs; firefighter Gwent Fire Bde 1978–89, Community Fire Safety Offr ...
Happy Days indeed; sunshine, health, good coffee, a great book, and fame at last.
Zulu Rising
I have read over 200 pages of Ian Knights astonishing book. I have previously read Great Zulu Commanders, and Great Zulu Battles and truly believed that Ian Knight could not produce a combined book that would be as fresh as the first of my two reads; I was wrong. I am gripped by the storytelling, and have enjoyed a few pages each day in Cafe Nero on Duke Street, Cardiff after my physical toil on our flat. The staff are lovely and would be worthy winners of a Coffee Shop of the Year Award. It has been an enjoyable experience popping into 'Nero' each day, but of course, the hard work on the flat has meant that I have been unable to press home the reading.
Plus of course there has been a gap in the Blogging while I lived in Cardiff for the last 9 or so days. 'Happy Days' as one of the 'Nero' staff would say!
Plus of course there has been a gap in the Blogging while I lived in Cardiff for the last 9 or so days. 'Happy Days' as one of the 'Nero' staff would say!
26 March 2011
iSandlwana
The epic story of iSandlwana and Rorke's Drift is graphically described in the 2010 book 'Zulu Rising' by historian and author, Ian Knight. As proclaimed on the inside of the dust cover; "In the shadow of an imposing rocky outcrop called iSandlwana, a part-time army of African herdsmen brought to a halt (...) more than a century and a half of British Imperial expansion across southern Africa."
There was me writing about 'Boys Own' in a recent Blog Post, and on page 4 of what feels and looks like a 600 page book, Ian Knight, mentions that "uncomfortable truths are often buried uneasily beneath a veneer of Boy's Own derring-do." For me, it is also interesting to note the author referring to there being "enough contemporary parallels, in Iraq and elsewhere, to suggest that no one, least of all politicians, learns from history." These fine words are in many ways replicated through the various threads weaved through this Blog over the last few years.
Maybe the study of war and Imperial expansionism should be a pre-requisite of holding elected public office? I wonder as to how many scholars, who understand social and economic science, would push a country into conflict? Be it internal or external conflict; as the State can deploy its violence monopolies against its own people, or beyond its borders.
Quite a lot has been written and spoken about the link between Libya and the London School of Economics (LSE). I appreciate that in contemporary affairs (and for these purposes I include the Libyan Embassy murder and the Lockerbie murders, and the current situation), that the word 'Libya' has negative connotations. Without trying in any way to push the morality and wrongdoing aside, I am unable to fully sign up to 'the LSE were wrong because' argument.
I believe that the core idea behind the academic link was sound. Education increases understanding and greater understanding, must ultimately, lead towards greater tolerance. As the 'Civilizing Process' continues, it is inevitable that there will be less reliance on the use of 'Violence Monopolies' by heads of state and other power players. The reduction in the use of violence will occur for both in-house events, and for conflict between States. Education, especially that delivered by credible world class institutions, must assist that process. Therefore, even though there are sound reasons why the link should not have been established, the LSE should not beat itself up over the links that occurred.
Education may have offset the contemporary problem. We know in hindsight that it didn't, but no one knew of this outcome, when the relationship began.
Although State-formation is central to the Civilizing Process, there can be no doubt that the process is also wholly dependent on people and their actions towards and their interaction with others. Strategic and other direction may occur during war. These directions may determine the various tasks and acts that are required in order to execute the warring intention. There may also be an understanding, or a co-hesion of force, that brings large numbers of people together for a particular event or series of events. But the actual execution of the violence is down to the behaviours and interaction of individuals or small groups of people. These people may be part of a 'strategic whole', but they nevertheless operate in isolation.
Real people operating in what can best be described as surreal circumstances. African herdsmen against the might of the British Empire and its Colonial intent. Part-time warrior against semi-professional soldiers. They fight and some of them will undoubtedly die. A bit like the contemporary problem in Libya today. If you fire on your people then people get killed, if you take out a command and control centre then more people get killed. Anyone and everyone is at risk, there is no clean kill; simply death.
This aspect of war is eloquently portrayed in the opening pages of 'Zulu Rising'. The author brings us closer to the death of a warrior, and then links the battlefield with the acts undertaken by modern descendants who are coming to terms with the loss and the impact of that loss on their contemporary problems. It's strong stuff, and in a future Blog Post I shall try and relay the 'Spirit Catching' of a fallen warrior at iSandlwana, as witnessed by Ian Knight back in January 2007 and described in his 2010 book. Maybe, just maybe, I can link that description to my own experience of 'African spirits' as described in one of my older Blog posts.
There was me writing about 'Boys Own' in a recent Blog Post, and on page 4 of what feels and looks like a 600 page book, Ian Knight, mentions that "uncomfortable truths are often buried uneasily beneath a veneer of Boy's Own derring-do." For me, it is also interesting to note the author referring to there being "enough contemporary parallels, in Iraq and elsewhere, to suggest that no one, least of all politicians, learns from history." These fine words are in many ways replicated through the various threads weaved through this Blog over the last few years.
Maybe the study of war and Imperial expansionism should be a pre-requisite of holding elected public office? I wonder as to how many scholars, who understand social and economic science, would push a country into conflict? Be it internal or external conflict; as the State can deploy its violence monopolies against its own people, or beyond its borders.
Quite a lot has been written and spoken about the link between Libya and the London School of Economics (LSE). I appreciate that in contemporary affairs (and for these purposes I include the Libyan Embassy murder and the Lockerbie murders, and the current situation), that the word 'Libya' has negative connotations. Without trying in any way to push the morality and wrongdoing aside, I am unable to fully sign up to 'the LSE were wrong because' argument.
I believe that the core idea behind the academic link was sound. Education increases understanding and greater understanding, must ultimately, lead towards greater tolerance. As the 'Civilizing Process' continues, it is inevitable that there will be less reliance on the use of 'Violence Monopolies' by heads of state and other power players. The reduction in the use of violence will occur for both in-house events, and for conflict between States. Education, especially that delivered by credible world class institutions, must assist that process. Therefore, even though there are sound reasons why the link should not have been established, the LSE should not beat itself up over the links that occurred.
Education may have offset the contemporary problem. We know in hindsight that it didn't, but no one knew of this outcome, when the relationship began.
Although State-formation is central to the Civilizing Process, there can be no doubt that the process is also wholly dependent on people and their actions towards and their interaction with others. Strategic and other direction may occur during war. These directions may determine the various tasks and acts that are required in order to execute the warring intention. There may also be an understanding, or a co-hesion of force, that brings large numbers of people together for a particular event or series of events. But the actual execution of the violence is down to the behaviours and interaction of individuals or small groups of people. These people may be part of a 'strategic whole', but they nevertheless operate in isolation.
Real people operating in what can best be described as surreal circumstances. African herdsmen against the might of the British Empire and its Colonial intent. Part-time warrior against semi-professional soldiers. They fight and some of them will undoubtedly die. A bit like the contemporary problem in Libya today. If you fire on your people then people get killed, if you take out a command and control centre then more people get killed. Anyone and everyone is at risk, there is no clean kill; simply death.
This aspect of war is eloquently portrayed in the opening pages of 'Zulu Rising'. The author brings us closer to the death of a warrior, and then links the battlefield with the acts undertaken by modern descendants who are coming to terms with the loss and the impact of that loss on their contemporary problems. It's strong stuff, and in a future Blog Post I shall try and relay the 'Spirit Catching' of a fallen warrior at iSandlwana, as witnessed by Ian Knight back in January 2007 and described in his 2010 book. Maybe, just maybe, I can link that description to my own experience of 'African spirits' as described in one of my older Blog posts.
25 March 2011
Little Fishy's
I had intended to write about 'Zulu Rising' and have a few notes that I put together for that purpose this morning. However, my travels continue and this afternoon we stepped out towards Aberaeron and Lampeter. It was a lovely trip and some March Welsh culture with Cawl, Bread, and Cheese at one of my favourite old time haunts; Mark Lanes Cafe in the high street fifty or so yards from the fountain.
It was very nice of the chap that built the fountain for the folk in Lambedr Pont Steffan (Lampeter). I suppose that providing water for drinking and bathing is an important social contribution. Although it was also a tad pompous of him to emblazon his name for all and sundry to see on the side of the disproportionate stonework. Sometimes people just don't know when 'enough is enough'.
I think that applies to all of those that kept arriving at the swimming pool this morning. As well as the ticket collecting that could have stopped the stampede. I managed 41 lengths, but my 'o my it was a terrible struggle with this person or that moving across my lane, towards me, and sometimes underneath. They were all like little fishy's, and for once I came close to understanding how everyone feels like when stuck in an aquarium. It was mad, simply mad. Can you imagine it being like that every day?
It was very nice of the chap that built the fountain for the folk in Lambedr Pont Steffan (Lampeter). I suppose that providing water for drinking and bathing is an important social contribution. Although it was also a tad pompous of him to emblazon his name for all and sundry to see on the side of the disproportionate stonework. Sometimes people just don't know when 'enough is enough'.
I think that applies to all of those that kept arriving at the swimming pool this morning. As well as the ticket collecting that could have stopped the stampede. I managed 41 lengths, but my 'o my it was a terrible struggle with this person or that moving across my lane, towards me, and sometimes underneath. They were all like little fishy's, and for once I came close to understanding how everyone feels like when stuck in an aquarium. It was mad, simply mad. Can you imagine it being like that every day?
24 March 2011
Travel new and past
I have put in quite a few miles over the last few weeks. Which is simply astonishing given the 70,400 words that I have written. No, I don't type and drive. Mind you, if it was safe to do so, then that would be the perfect solution. Mainly because driving is mundane, and I'm not a mundane sort of person.
I have also managed to read two exceptionally good books. The latter one being "the Real Heroes of Telemark". An astonishingly good read, and one which I recommended to you before I reached the closing chapters. I knew parts of the story but I was unaware of "the Ferry of Death". War is about death, but fortunately not all conflict is war. There is conflict in relationships, conflict in employment, and conflict through religious or political differences. Sometimes something happens that transcends the differences, something that jells the actors and onlookers to work towards the common good. The true stories behind my recent reading are remarkable. Real 'Boys Own' sorts of stuff. A modern day hero, a soldier who fought 'for King and Country' and then went on to become active in clandestine activities which in many ways were also for the greater good. Hardship was portrayed in 'Rifleman', but probably not as much hardship as that which was endured in 'Hardanger' during that terrible winter. Both stories show how far man will got to hurt others, and how far man will go to try to right a wrong.
My next read, sweeps away from 'Boys Own'; to Imperialism and Colonialism. The story of British Colonial Intentions in Black Africa. Readers of the Blog will know how the British were outwitted by the superior leadership skills of the Zulu nation. The highly drilled British Soldiers had embarked on what must have also been an adventure similar to 'Rifleman' and 'Telemark'. Facing an enemy and not knowing if you will win through.
I mentioned in a recent Blog Post about the process of state formation. In the previous paragraph I mentioned the 'Zulu Nation', unfortunately their state formation process was not far enough advanced. In-fighting and agricultural demands led to weaknesses. Colonial Britain got lucky and Africa bore the burden of that success. Maybe over the next few Blog Posts I can mention some of my favourite bits from one of my favourite stories. Ian Knight is a great author, and this being the third book of his that I have read, there is bound to be some replication. But if I come across a few gems, then you can certainly be assured of some replication in this Blog. Until then, if you live in the UK, enjoy the early Summer. It may be all that we have. Although unlike Africa and the Zulu society many decades before; the clouds that gather for us, will only bring rain, and not death and oppression.
I have also managed to read two exceptionally good books. The latter one being "the Real Heroes of Telemark". An astonishingly good read, and one which I recommended to you before I reached the closing chapters. I knew parts of the story but I was unaware of "the Ferry of Death". War is about death, but fortunately not all conflict is war. There is conflict in relationships, conflict in employment, and conflict through religious or political differences. Sometimes something happens that transcends the differences, something that jells the actors and onlookers to work towards the common good. The true stories behind my recent reading are remarkable. Real 'Boys Own' sorts of stuff. A modern day hero, a soldier who fought 'for King and Country' and then went on to become active in clandestine activities which in many ways were also for the greater good. Hardship was portrayed in 'Rifleman', but probably not as much hardship as that which was endured in 'Hardanger' during that terrible winter. Both stories show how far man will got to hurt others, and how far man will go to try to right a wrong.
My next read, sweeps away from 'Boys Own'; to Imperialism and Colonialism. The story of British Colonial Intentions in Black Africa. Readers of the Blog will know how the British were outwitted by the superior leadership skills of the Zulu nation. The highly drilled British Soldiers had embarked on what must have also been an adventure similar to 'Rifleman' and 'Telemark'. Facing an enemy and not knowing if you will win through.
I mentioned in a recent Blog Post about the process of state formation. In the previous paragraph I mentioned the 'Zulu Nation', unfortunately their state formation process was not far enough advanced. In-fighting and agricultural demands led to weaknesses. Colonial Britain got lucky and Africa bore the burden of that success. Maybe over the next few Blog Posts I can mention some of my favourite bits from one of my favourite stories. Ian Knight is a great author, and this being the third book of his that I have read, there is bound to be some replication. But if I come across a few gems, then you can certainly be assured of some replication in this Blog. Until then, if you live in the UK, enjoy the early Summer. It may be all that we have. Although unlike Africa and the Zulu society many decades before; the clouds that gather for us, will only bring rain, and not death and oppression.
22 March 2011
Reflection
For me, swimming is a reflective process. I always look back at the event and recall how enjoyable it all was, but I never look forward to getting up early and dragging myself to the Pool. This in some ways is a pity, as I do enjoy the swim.
I tend to average 150+ lengths a week, and a fair few Sauna's to boot. Popping into the Sauna is my way of adding some relaxation and further extending the workout period. The heat maintains the raised heartbeat from the exercise; well that's my theory anyway. Plus of course there's the Social Intercourse. Like many people, I enjoy a good chat, and popping to the Pool enables me to exchange a few words with some friends. Routine, motivation, dialogue, exercise, warmth, and reflection.
It's all very civilized. Elias mentioned that we are unable to understand the "civilizing of conduct" and the transformation of the structure of mental and emotional life without "tracing the process of state-formation" within the advancing centralization of society. Elias also mentioned that this "first found (...) visible expression in the absolutist form of rule." So our development links to those 'power chances' that were gifted to a central authority. Now we can trace this state formation back to the middle ages, and enforce our understanding of later events, by reviewing 15C records. But in many ways this 'central authority' mechanism operated throughout the 20C and is still visible today. This is evidence that the civilizing process is a continuum. What one person thinks is civilized is not, and what many believe to be civilized; is still subject to improvement as gradual changes are introduced. By inference, this latter model cannot be 'civilized' because if it were, then there could be no room for improvement. Better still, our understanding of the process is based on ‘reflection’ in that we have to look for evidence in order to determine if improvements or advances were made. I wonder what future historians will think of the current turmoil in Arab countries. Will they believe that UN intervention was correct? Will they regenerate the Crusader against Islam theory? Or will it all boil down to a mere side show. It is quite upsetting that conflict through choice, has displaced the Humanitarian disaster in Japan from the front pages. But this is all too often the case, a side show steps in and prevents us from executing our intention or necessary actions.
The problems always seem to happen through a craving for power. For these persons the money sector of the economy is all too often the driving influence, and this craving allows the actors to seize their ‘power chances’. Be it 'oil', 'Land', or other wealth; the names of the actors never matter. Yes they will be noted in history, but in real terms the names don't matter as the sequence seems to happen time and time again. Sometimes it all ends with a fight between ‘Good’ and ‘Evil’, conflict or force exercised by those that consider themselves to be ‘Civilized’ against those, who for no good reason, they consider to be ‘un-civilized’. I'm not saying that what we are doing in Libya is wrong, only that I truly believe that dialogue and negotiation is better than conflict. Mind you, that requires both parties to be listening, and all too often that is not the case. Then again, even when people appear to be listening and agreeing, we have to remember the farce that was the Munich Agreement.
I don't know much about what I have written, but I do know that in this 'civilized' (sic) era, it’s awfully civilized being able to pop along to the Swimming Pool most mornings.
I tend to average 150+ lengths a week, and a fair few Sauna's to boot. Popping into the Sauna is my way of adding some relaxation and further extending the workout period. The heat maintains the raised heartbeat from the exercise; well that's my theory anyway. Plus of course there's the Social Intercourse. Like many people, I enjoy a good chat, and popping to the Pool enables me to exchange a few words with some friends. Routine, motivation, dialogue, exercise, warmth, and reflection.
It's all very civilized. Elias mentioned that we are unable to understand the "civilizing of conduct" and the transformation of the structure of mental and emotional life without "tracing the process of state-formation" within the advancing centralization of society. Elias also mentioned that this "first found (...) visible expression in the absolutist form of rule." So our development links to those 'power chances' that were gifted to a central authority. Now we can trace this state formation back to the middle ages, and enforce our understanding of later events, by reviewing 15C records. But in many ways this 'central authority' mechanism operated throughout the 20C and is still visible today. This is evidence that the civilizing process is a continuum. What one person thinks is civilized is not, and what many believe to be civilized; is still subject to improvement as gradual changes are introduced. By inference, this latter model cannot be 'civilized' because if it were, then there could be no room for improvement. Better still, our understanding of the process is based on ‘reflection’ in that we have to look for evidence in order to determine if improvements or advances were made. I wonder what future historians will think of the current turmoil in Arab countries. Will they believe that UN intervention was correct? Will they regenerate the Crusader against Islam theory? Or will it all boil down to a mere side show. It is quite upsetting that conflict through choice, has displaced the Humanitarian disaster in Japan from the front pages. But this is all too often the case, a side show steps in and prevents us from executing our intention or necessary actions.
The problems always seem to happen through a craving for power. For these persons the money sector of the economy is all too often the driving influence, and this craving allows the actors to seize their ‘power chances’. Be it 'oil', 'Land', or other wealth; the names of the actors never matter. Yes they will be noted in history, but in real terms the names don't matter as the sequence seems to happen time and time again. Sometimes it all ends with a fight between ‘Good’ and ‘Evil’, conflict or force exercised by those that consider themselves to be ‘Civilized’ against those, who for no good reason, they consider to be ‘un-civilized’. I'm not saying that what we are doing in Libya is wrong, only that I truly believe that dialogue and negotiation is better than conflict. Mind you, that requires both parties to be listening, and all too often that is not the case. Then again, even when people appear to be listening and agreeing, we have to remember the farce that was the Munich Agreement.
I don't know much about what I have written, but I do know that in this 'civilized' (sic) era, it’s awfully civilized being able to pop along to the Swimming Pool most mornings.
21 March 2011
Telemark
I like a good film, and I pretty well warm to anything Military. I also enjoy a good book, and after finishing 'Rifleman' I struck out on a new read that can be best described as an Alpine Ski run. 110 pages on day one, and 102 pages on the second day. Well, it was only natural that I lagged behind given my exertions on the first day.
My current read is about Telemark, in Norway. As I come towards the end of the book, it is clear that 1965 Kirk Douglas, Richard Harris film is not true to the original story. The Ray Mears; 'The Heroes of Telemark' book is an astonishing read. Right up there with the Chris Ryan, 'the One that Got Away'. When you eventually understand what Ryan achieved, you start to comprehend man's ability to overcome difficult and somewhat daunting circumstances.
In 1942 the Norwegians camped out high on the Hardanger Vidda. I don't know what 'Hardanger' means in Norwegian, but simply break the words into two English words and it sort of sums up the environment HARD ANGER. Like Ryan, they seem to have coped with the impossible. It may be Spring in the UK, but back in Norway in 1942 the country was enjoying its harshest Winter in living memory. And there, high up on the plateau were a bunch of heroes doing their best as pathfinders for those that followed them into the inhospitable environment in order to destroy the supply of 'Heavy Water' held by the Germans. It is a tale of endurance, sacrifice and butchery. It is quite upsetting to read about the failed attempt and what happened to the captured British Commandos. It is heartwarming to read of the later audacious and successful attack. Unfortunately like all good books, this one will also come to an end, and then I have to seek out a new read. That is likely to be "Zulu Rising", I like Ian Knight and the book is a present. But I also have to re-read "The Germans" by Norbert Elias along with a few other academic books as I zero in my sights and slip from reading for enjoyment towards reading for publication. As it is time again to start typing with a view to having some more work put out there.
I have a shed load of material, and now I have to decide which direction it is all going to take me. Yep, downhill skiing, my favourite sport, but thankfully not in Norway where it's a tad too cold for this Tommy.
The Heroes of Telemark, I doff my cap to one and all.
My current read is about Telemark, in Norway. As I come towards the end of the book, it is clear that 1965 Kirk Douglas, Richard Harris film is not true to the original story. The Ray Mears; 'The Heroes of Telemark' book is an astonishing read. Right up there with the Chris Ryan, 'the One that Got Away'. When you eventually understand what Ryan achieved, you start to comprehend man's ability to overcome difficult and somewhat daunting circumstances.
In 1942 the Norwegians camped out high on the Hardanger Vidda. I don't know what 'Hardanger' means in Norwegian, but simply break the words into two English words and it sort of sums up the environment HARD ANGER. Like Ryan, they seem to have coped with the impossible. It may be Spring in the UK, but back in Norway in 1942 the country was enjoying its harshest Winter in living memory. And there, high up on the plateau were a bunch of heroes doing their best as pathfinders for those that followed them into the inhospitable environment in order to destroy the supply of 'Heavy Water' held by the Germans. It is a tale of endurance, sacrifice and butchery. It is quite upsetting to read about the failed attempt and what happened to the captured British Commandos. It is heartwarming to read of the later audacious and successful attack. Unfortunately like all good books, this one will also come to an end, and then I have to seek out a new read. That is likely to be "Zulu Rising", I like Ian Knight and the book is a present. But I also have to re-read "The Germans" by Norbert Elias along with a few other academic books as I zero in my sights and slip from reading for enjoyment towards reading for publication. As it is time again to start typing with a view to having some more work put out there.
I have a shed load of material, and now I have to decide which direction it is all going to take me. Yep, downhill skiing, my favourite sport, but thankfully not in Norway where it's a tad too cold for this Tommy.
The Heroes of Telemark, I doff my cap to one and all.
20 March 2011
Spring and Clutch Head Slot Security
Today is the first day of Spring in the UK. It's got nothing to do with the date, nor the weather, or even the odd daffodil that has popped up. Apparently it has something to do with the Moon, but what exactly, I simply don't know. I do know that folklore regards the 21 March as the First Day of Spring, so maybe Mrs B has got her dates mixed up, when she assured old sleepy head that today was the day.
Well I certainly had a spring in my step upon hearing the news. Even on a dreary day like today. I managed to break into our shed. Not any old shed mind you, but the fortress that has stood in our garden for some nine years. Built by yours truly, from scratch, and not a window or weak point in sight. There are several advantages to not having a window; (i) you don't have to buy any glass, (ii) there's no need for putty, (iii) no need for tricky corner joints, and (iv) you can't simply tap the glass and break in. I had to break in you see, because the shed key came adrift from the key chain. I have scoured the garden and the tiny stones in the backyard for weeks now. But it was to no avail, the lost key could not be found and the spare keys had gone missing during the kitchen make-over.
I set aside several hours of this dreary First Day of Spring to complete the task. It took me 10 minutes including repairing the damage. Some fortress then, not a window in sight. A shed that was complete with a secure lock that had locking bolts and retainers, and are not simply screwed in. No, the locking mechanism on this hand crafted non shop bought shed, had devices that were bolted in place to stop Mr Thief unscrewing the fixings. This is not the first time in my life that I have secured something properly. I once used prison non reversible screws. The screw heads are chanfered in one direction so the flat screw driver will engage when turning clockwise (the direction of tightening) but slips when you try and turn the screwdriver anti-clockwise. These type of screws are also referred to as 'Jail Head' screws. You simply cannot apply torque in one direction but can use a normal screwdriver to insert a permanent installation. So I know my security stuff, and of course, I'm starting to learn my law stuff as well.
Ten minutes, that was all the time it took, to get in and out, and repair the damage. Even the community police officer who assessed our home a few months back missed that one. He was well impressed, like me, with the shed. But then again nothing is secure when someone is determined and opportunity exists. That also applies to arguments and positions and not only to physical structures. What we erect can be taken down, however good we think that the position or structure is. However good we think we are, there is always someone better, and there is usually someone who is at least worthy of the task.
Whether or not its the First Day of Spring didn't matter one little bit. Although there was an upside, I was able to make a coffee and then hide away in the garage tidying up several months worth of mess. It's messy in the garage because I am too busy fighting others to hold up high our family name and reputation, and fighting takes time, it takes energy, and it means that those tasks that you really need to do, simply get put to one side. I have to tidy up, just in case the Japanese Ambassador rings and takes me up on that offer. I mean, I can't have the place looking messy if we have a few guests over for a few months, can I?
Now where was that key? I know; it was inside the locked shed, lying in full view on the floor. Sods Law ain't it? And I know quite a bit about that. Indeed, I am learning quite a bit about quite a few Laws. Mind you, my all-time favourite is still 'Trial by Combat', make mine a Single Ball Mace complete with leather handle, any day.
Well I certainly had a spring in my step upon hearing the news. Even on a dreary day like today. I managed to break into our shed. Not any old shed mind you, but the fortress that has stood in our garden for some nine years. Built by yours truly, from scratch, and not a window or weak point in sight. There are several advantages to not having a window; (i) you don't have to buy any glass, (ii) there's no need for putty, (iii) no need for tricky corner joints, and (iv) you can't simply tap the glass and break in. I had to break in you see, because the shed key came adrift from the key chain. I have scoured the garden and the tiny stones in the backyard for weeks now. But it was to no avail, the lost key could not be found and the spare keys had gone missing during the kitchen make-over.
I set aside several hours of this dreary First Day of Spring to complete the task. It took me 10 minutes including repairing the damage. Some fortress then, not a window in sight. A shed that was complete with a secure lock that had locking bolts and retainers, and are not simply screwed in. No, the locking mechanism on this hand crafted non shop bought shed, had devices that were bolted in place to stop Mr Thief unscrewing the fixings. This is not the first time in my life that I have secured something properly. I once used prison non reversible screws. The screw heads are chanfered in one direction so the flat screw driver will engage when turning clockwise (the direction of tightening) but slips when you try and turn the screwdriver anti-clockwise. These type of screws are also referred to as 'Jail Head' screws. You simply cannot apply torque in one direction but can use a normal screwdriver to insert a permanent installation. So I know my security stuff, and of course, I'm starting to learn my law stuff as well.
Ten minutes, that was all the time it took, to get in and out, and repair the damage. Even the community police officer who assessed our home a few months back missed that one. He was well impressed, like me, with the shed. But then again nothing is secure when someone is determined and opportunity exists. That also applies to arguments and positions and not only to physical structures. What we erect can be taken down, however good we think that the position or structure is. However good we think we are, there is always someone better, and there is usually someone who is at least worthy of the task.
Whether or not its the First Day of Spring didn't matter one little bit. Although there was an upside, I was able to make a coffee and then hide away in the garage tidying up several months worth of mess. It's messy in the garage because I am too busy fighting others to hold up high our family name and reputation, and fighting takes time, it takes energy, and it means that those tasks that you really need to do, simply get put to one side. I have to tidy up, just in case the Japanese Ambassador rings and takes me up on that offer. I mean, I can't have the place looking messy if we have a few guests over for a few months, can I?
Now where was that key? I know; it was inside the locked shed, lying in full view on the floor. Sods Law ain't it? And I know quite a bit about that. Indeed, I am learning quite a bit about quite a few Laws. Mind you, my all-time favourite is still 'Trial by Combat', make mine a Single Ball Mace complete with leather handle, any day.
19 March 2011
Eating and Fighting
Well the last Blog Post weaved its way between eating and fighting. It tried to explain 'Trial by Combat' and mentioned the lovely food, surroundings and people at the astonishingly good 'Mumbai Lounge' in York.
I really don't know how to top that Blog Post, especially as I do like to try create some kind of link between Posts. I suppose that I will have to thrill you with the delights of our Second Christmas Day. I found out that one of my really good friends had not had a Christmas Dinner since 2003. Well that certainly threw the gauntlet down. I mean, Christmas Dinner; it's the highlight of the year, ain't it? So the two professional drinkers were invited over to yours truly. Good news for me and them of course, but not so good news for Mrs B. Mainly because it meant one thing and one thing only. Seriously hard work for Mrs B at the wrong time of the year. Now don't get me wrong, Mrs B was well up for it, but I still felt a tad guilty.
Mrs B went off on one of her hunting trips to the local supermarket and managed to catch herself a turkey! Wow, it's March, I was well impressed. But not half as impressed as I was when she rustled up home made mince pies with puff pastry. I mean, come on give me a break. This is Mrs B and not Nigella, and Mrs B doesn't do baking. It's not that she can't, it's simply that she doesn't. I was well impressed, nearly as impressive as the fine wine and cheeses from Ultracomida in Pier Street, Aberystwyth, that were bought to compliment the meal. I get the credit for that hunting trip, and you will get an awful lot of credit if you ever book a table for your lady and you to enjoy the fine evening dining at Ultracomida. A bit like a Christmas Dinner cooked by Mrs. B, a treat not to be missed.
So there we were post Christmas Dinner number 2, rolling around like a gaggle of stuffed turkeys, when out popped the presents. Now Mrs B and I thought that we had come up trumps buying our guests some nice treats for mid March. But what we didn't anticipate is that they would also buy me a gift.
Not any old gift mind you, but 'Rifleman - A Front Line Life' by Victor Gregg with Rick Stroud. Good effort, and a very good read. 100 pages in no time and the fight was in the dog. A truly remarkable tale of a life time of adventure. Not my usual 'heroics' book, but a book involving a hero nevertheless. I never knew that I was going to be happy (if that's the right word, but I hope that you know what I mean in the context of this Blog Post) one day that the Allies bombed Dresden. The bombing has always struck me as 'bad form' a bit like the incineration that went on in Japan before the two atomic bombs were dropped to show the Russians what the Allies had. But if we hadn't bombed Dresden, then Victor Gregg would have been shot by the Germans. You will have to read the book to find out the how and the why.
Meanwhile, Mrs. B Christmas Dinner. Twice a year, only very good friends can book. Astonishing food, astonishingly good service and great company.
Ultracomida, Aberystwyth is open most days and a few evenings a week. The communal tables may take a bit getting used to, but the food is lovely.
I really don't know how to top that Blog Post, especially as I do like to try create some kind of link between Posts. I suppose that I will have to thrill you with the delights of our Second Christmas Day. I found out that one of my really good friends had not had a Christmas Dinner since 2003. Well that certainly threw the gauntlet down. I mean, Christmas Dinner; it's the highlight of the year, ain't it? So the two professional drinkers were invited over to yours truly. Good news for me and them of course, but not so good news for Mrs B. Mainly because it meant one thing and one thing only. Seriously hard work for Mrs B at the wrong time of the year. Now don't get me wrong, Mrs B was well up for it, but I still felt a tad guilty.
Mrs B went off on one of her hunting trips to the local supermarket and managed to catch herself a turkey! Wow, it's March, I was well impressed. But not half as impressed as I was when she rustled up home made mince pies with puff pastry. I mean, come on give me a break. This is Mrs B and not Nigella, and Mrs B doesn't do baking. It's not that she can't, it's simply that she doesn't. I was well impressed, nearly as impressive as the fine wine and cheeses from Ultracomida in Pier Street, Aberystwyth, that were bought to compliment the meal. I get the credit for that hunting trip, and you will get an awful lot of credit if you ever book a table for your lady and you to enjoy the fine evening dining at Ultracomida. A bit like a Christmas Dinner cooked by Mrs. B, a treat not to be missed.
So there we were post Christmas Dinner number 2, rolling around like a gaggle of stuffed turkeys, when out popped the presents. Now Mrs B and I thought that we had come up trumps buying our guests some nice treats for mid March. But what we didn't anticipate is that they would also buy me a gift.
Not any old gift mind you, but 'Rifleman - A Front Line Life' by Victor Gregg with Rick Stroud. Good effort, and a very good read. 100 pages in no time and the fight was in the dog. A truly remarkable tale of a life time of adventure. Not my usual 'heroics' book, but a book involving a hero nevertheless. I never knew that I was going to be happy (if that's the right word, but I hope that you know what I mean in the context of this Blog Post) one day that the Allies bombed Dresden. The bombing has always struck me as 'bad form' a bit like the incineration that went on in Japan before the two atomic bombs were dropped to show the Russians what the Allies had. But if we hadn't bombed Dresden, then Victor Gregg would have been shot by the Germans. You will have to read the book to find out the how and the why.
Meanwhile, Mrs. B Christmas Dinner. Twice a year, only very good friends can book. Astonishing food, astonishingly good service and great company.
Ultracomida, Aberystwyth is open most days and a few evenings a week. The communal tables may take a bit getting used to, but the food is lovely.
18 March 2011
York
I had a good reason to go away for a few days and the upside of that as one of my daughters mentioned; was a well earned break from sitting in front of the laptop day after day. Now please don't get me wrong, I'm no nerd. No far from it, I'm a regular down to earth sort of guy. It's just that I have been extremely busy typing up stuff relevant to an ongoing problem faced by one of my family. The upside of that problem is that a good friend has recommended that I bang off 12,000 words for a certain must not be named academic journal. Well no problem says I "That's a breeze, I wrote 26,400 words last week". I don't know if that was bravado, or the affects of heat during my daily morning sauna. Nevertheless, the gauntlet has been thrown down, and those that know me will confirm, that I am one to pick up the gauntlet with gusto.
Indeed, I have mentioned in a previous Blog the inherent problems when attacked from behind. Bullies come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes they are an organisation and not a single person. When we are under attack, 'we' (that's you and I in everyday occurrence and not my current adversaries) refer to our opponents as 'they' or 'them'. And sometimes, like the wind, we can't always pin 'them' down. Those that you know and love and like, let you down. Sometimes your opponent is not who or what it seems. Never mind being struck from behind, sometimes you can get smacked squarely on the nose and not know who done it. But when it comes to picking up the gauntlet and fighting a known foe, then I'm an advocate of "Trial by Combat" introduced into English Law by that 1066 chap; William the Conqueror. I believe that in our current troubles "God shall give victory to the party that is right". You see, our opponents are paid to represent their Client, but I represent someone because I believe in truth and that "Right is Might". And I'm well up for a fight when I can see my opponent and they ain't attacking me when I am half asleep in my bed, or sat at my desk with my back turned towards them. So with all of this in mind, the York trip was business, but was also a well earned rest.
Of course this is where I "throw the gauntlet down" and challenge each and any one of you to resist visiting the astonishing "Mumbai Lounge" Indian Restaurant that we found at 47 Fossgate, York, Yo1 9TF.
We knew that we were on to a good thing when we spotted the restaurant in the afternoon and commented to one another as to its spotless appearance. The evening venture did not disappoint as we were welcomed by staff in traditional dress. They even took our coats, now that its a sign of an upmarket establishment. I like the 5* Hilton in Cardiff and go there quite a bit. All of these chaps could have been trained by the Manager in Cardiff. It was 5* at its best! The lovely tables with excellent cutlery were equalled with high quality food and service. My condiments were the finest ever, and is the first time in my life that I have ever indulged with the Chili Pickles with gusto. My Chicken Jalfrezy type dish was a tad hot for me, but that did not deflect from the quality of the cooking. It reminded me a lot of the Nepalese Restaurants that I have eaten at, good ingredients, cooked well. Flavours, textures and structure. It was all there, from my plain Nan Bread to the steamed rice. My youngest daughter like myself is an advocate of plain steamed rice with a curry. Why on earth would you eat anything that could deflect you from the true taste that you are trying to experience. You are there for the curry and not the onions or mushrooms in the rice. The Chicken Tikka Masala was served in the pan and placed on top of a heat tray, whereas my dish was sizzling and in its wooden base. Astonishing food, and they must have liked us as we were offered a complimentary drink each, that I of course declined.
I'm not surprised that we were liked, as we are honest working class folk who would do anything to help another human being. I care, to be quite truthful, I probably care too much about too many things. But I also care for my food, and the Mumbai Lounge in York is probably the best Indian and Bangladeshi Cuisine that you will ever come across in the UK. But don't take my word for it, instead seek them out and if its a weekend then please have the common sense to book in advance.
01904 654 155
www.mubailoungeyork.co.uk
Please mention the chap from Wales accompanied by the beautiful dark head young girl when you book. They won't have a clue who you mean, but mention us anyway. Mr Lovely, Mrs Lovely and our children; Lovelier :-) Enjoy your food folks, and remember never be afraid to pick up the gauntlet as "Right is Might". Look at the Casey Heynes story, an example to us all to stand up against those who try to keep on bullying us.
Indeed, I have mentioned in a previous Blog the inherent problems when attacked from behind. Bullies come in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes they are an organisation and not a single person. When we are under attack, 'we' (that's you and I in everyday occurrence and not my current adversaries) refer to our opponents as 'they' or 'them'. And sometimes, like the wind, we can't always pin 'them' down. Those that you know and love and like, let you down. Sometimes your opponent is not who or what it seems. Never mind being struck from behind, sometimes you can get smacked squarely on the nose and not know who done it. But when it comes to picking up the gauntlet and fighting a known foe, then I'm an advocate of "Trial by Combat" introduced into English Law by that 1066 chap; William the Conqueror. I believe that in our current troubles "God shall give victory to the party that is right". You see, our opponents are paid to represent their Client, but I represent someone because I believe in truth and that "Right is Might". And I'm well up for a fight when I can see my opponent and they ain't attacking me when I am half asleep in my bed, or sat at my desk with my back turned towards them. So with all of this in mind, the York trip was business, but was also a well earned rest.
Of course this is where I "throw the gauntlet down" and challenge each and any one of you to resist visiting the astonishing "Mumbai Lounge" Indian Restaurant that we found at 47 Fossgate, York, Yo1 9TF.
We knew that we were on to a good thing when we spotted the restaurant in the afternoon and commented to one another as to its spotless appearance. The evening venture did not disappoint as we were welcomed by staff in traditional dress. They even took our coats, now that its a sign of an upmarket establishment. I like the 5* Hilton in Cardiff and go there quite a bit. All of these chaps could have been trained by the Manager in Cardiff. It was 5* at its best! The lovely tables with excellent cutlery were equalled with high quality food and service. My condiments were the finest ever, and is the first time in my life that I have ever indulged with the Chili Pickles with gusto. My Chicken Jalfrezy type dish was a tad hot for me, but that did not deflect from the quality of the cooking. It reminded me a lot of the Nepalese Restaurants that I have eaten at, good ingredients, cooked well. Flavours, textures and structure. It was all there, from my plain Nan Bread to the steamed rice. My youngest daughter like myself is an advocate of plain steamed rice with a curry. Why on earth would you eat anything that could deflect you from the true taste that you are trying to experience. You are there for the curry and not the onions or mushrooms in the rice. The Chicken Tikka Masala was served in the pan and placed on top of a heat tray, whereas my dish was sizzling and in its wooden base. Astonishing food, and they must have liked us as we were offered a complimentary drink each, that I of course declined.
I'm not surprised that we were liked, as we are honest working class folk who would do anything to help another human being. I care, to be quite truthful, I probably care too much about too many things. But I also care for my food, and the Mumbai Lounge in York is probably the best Indian and Bangladeshi Cuisine that you will ever come across in the UK. But don't take my word for it, instead seek them out and if its a weekend then please have the common sense to book in advance.
01904 654 155
www.mubailoungeyork.co.uk
Please mention the chap from Wales accompanied by the beautiful dark head young girl when you book. They won't have a clue who you mean, but mention us anyway. Mr Lovely, Mrs Lovely and our children; Lovelier :-) Enjoy your food folks, and remember never be afraid to pick up the gauntlet as "Right is Might". Look at the Casey Heynes story, an example to us all to stand up against those who try to keep on bullying us.
16 March 2011
Japan Earthquake, Tsunami, and Nuclear Emergency
The story in Japan simply gets worse and worse. The death toll rises, the nuclear emergency increases and freezing temperatures hamper both aid relief and the rescue attempts. I have made a small offer to the Japanese Embassy and to the JAPANFoundation that I would willingly house, feed, and entertain a Japanese family of three or four displaced persons for the next several months. I mean, you can't look on at what is happening and not be moved by the circumstances facing the Japanese nation.
So what if I don't got on holiday this year, so what if I have to find a few hundred pounds extra for a few months. Compared to what is happening at the moment in Japan, anything anyone can do, should be done.
I very much doubt that my small gesture will be accepted. Especially with so much going on and the logistics of finding sufficient host families in the UK. But I tell you now, if they decide to find hosts for some of the people, and I do get a phone call, then Pauline and I will be off in the car in a flash to any UK Airport to pick up our guests and show them that there is a Global Community.
So what if I don't got on holiday this year, so what if I have to find a few hundred pounds extra for a few months. Compared to what is happening at the moment in Japan, anything anyone can do, should be done.
I very much doubt that my small gesture will be accepted. Especially with so much going on and the logistics of finding sufficient host families in the UK. But I tell you now, if they decide to find hosts for some of the people, and I do get a phone call, then Pauline and I will be off in the car in a flash to any UK Airport to pick up our guests and show them that there is a Global Community.
Casey Heynes Australia
Now don't get me wrong, I do not condone violence. Indeed, I am a gentle man and have walked away from many of a fight. Indeed, I did not hit back when I was twice assaulted in the workplace with my back turned to the assailant. Once on a night shift while in bed waiting for a 999 call turnout, and once while I was sat at my desk and my assailant walked behind me before hitting me from behind. Nope, I am not a violent man. And I have to contextualise the statement before I hit on the main theme of this Blog post.
Victims of the World unite and follow Casey Heynes. Always a constant victim, he stands while his assailant punches him full force in the face. He doesn't react as his assailant makes two blows to the stomach. No, Casey Heynes is a gentle guy. He doesn't react and there is no one there to help him. Well actually there is. There's the person holding the Happy Slapping Camera Phone, and someone who you may think was around because all of a sudden he steps in between the bully and the victim. Nope, not to help Casey but to try and stop Casey hurting the bully. Eh, like what? Casey was never going to hurt the Bully tough guy. No, Casey simply picked the Bully up and Body Slammed him into the concrete. Now why didn't I think of that on those occasions that I was attacked? I know, because I wasn't looking. You see that's the things with Bullies, they only do what they think that they can get away with. Now that's some real Social Science for you, and if you are instead into Film and Theatre; then check out the numerous Casey Heynes videos on the Web.
By the way, the victim actually got suspended from School. I read somewhere on the Web that the only time Casey should have been given off School was to go and collect the Keys to the Town. There's a lot of people out there who need to answer for this one, and Casey Heynes isn't one of those people. Where were those who have a duty of care to a child in a school to prevent constant bullying occuring, where were the parents of the assailant, where were the parents of the camera holder, and where were the parents of the tough guy with the rucksack. Shame on all of you, and well done Casey Heynes. Oh, and well done to the young girl who tries to step in at the end. Well done to everyone who supports Casey Heynes and please continue to support him when he is allowed back into School.
Victims of the World unite and follow Casey Heynes. Always a constant victim, he stands while his assailant punches him full force in the face. He doesn't react as his assailant makes two blows to the stomach. No, Casey Heynes is a gentle guy. He doesn't react and there is no one there to help him. Well actually there is. There's the person holding the Happy Slapping Camera Phone, and someone who you may think was around because all of a sudden he steps in between the bully and the victim. Nope, not to help Casey but to try and stop Casey hurting the bully. Eh, like what? Casey was never going to hurt the Bully tough guy. No, Casey simply picked the Bully up and Body Slammed him into the concrete. Now why didn't I think of that on those occasions that I was attacked? I know, because I wasn't looking. You see that's the things with Bullies, they only do what they think that they can get away with. Now that's some real Social Science for you, and if you are instead into Film and Theatre; then check out the numerous Casey Heynes videos on the Web.
By the way, the victim actually got suspended from School. I read somewhere on the Web that the only time Casey should have been given off School was to go and collect the Keys to the Town. There's a lot of people out there who need to answer for this one, and Casey Heynes isn't one of those people. Where were those who have a duty of care to a child in a school to prevent constant bullying occuring, where were the parents of the assailant, where were the parents of the camera holder, and where were the parents of the tough guy with the rucksack. Shame on all of you, and well done Casey Heynes. Oh, and well done to the young girl who tries to step in at the end. Well done to everyone who supports Casey Heynes and please continue to support him when he is allowed back into School.
12 March 2011
Japan Tsunami
I am just overwhelmed by events unfolding with the Tsunami and Earthquakes striking Japan. I think that everyone who has capacity, has a moral duty to offer assistance to the Japanese people in their time of dire need.
I'm am so proud to be British and to see our Government offer assistance to Japan and today's dispatch from Manchester Airport of our International Search and Rescue Team (ISAR) with its highly trained members, search dogs, and medical support. It's not just a case of what the UK ISAR team can do, but is also about showing that we care enough to assemble a team and then send it where and when it is needed. It's a moral and social obligation of a society that believes in supporting and helping others who are in need.
When you retire each night over the coming months, please say a pray for those that need our help and remember whatever your faith; we are not on this World for what we do for ourselves, but are instead here for what we can do for others.
I'm am so proud to be British and to see our Government offer assistance to Japan and today's dispatch from Manchester Airport of our International Search and Rescue Team (ISAR) with its highly trained members, search dogs, and medical support. It's not just a case of what the UK ISAR team can do, but is also about showing that we care enough to assemble a team and then send it where and when it is needed. It's a moral and social obligation of a society that believes in supporting and helping others who are in need.
When you retire each night over the coming months, please say a pray for those that need our help and remember whatever your faith; we are not on this World for what we do for ourselves, but are instead here for what we can do for others.
Language
I'm currently faced with a bit of a problem. I have a letter from the Presidencia in the Republica De Chile, but I am unable to read it, because quite rightly, it is not written in English or Welsh.
That's a typical problem with communication, both parties have to interact, understand the matter, and actually listen. I recently wrote to someone that it don't matter how much you shake the tree, if you ain't listening - then you ain't listening and that is that.
Sometimes those barriers that interfere with effective listening aren't always of our own making. Sometimes something is said in mother tongue; but you simply do not understand. That doesn't necessarily mean that either party is speaking or writing a different language. No, far from it. Instead all too often people use words or phrases that simply don't make any sense. It could be that the receptor suffers from Dyslexia and the words move or are jumbled up. Or the receptor is a tad deaf. Or maybe the intended receiver doesn't exactly understand the words that are used. The words and the context don't add up, or the vocabulary simply isn't there. There is no understanding however much you move your hands or increase the volume at which you are speaking, or point at a phrase or a particular word on a page, or underline or over score the same or other words or phrases with a marker pen.
Although sometimes it is simply a case of; if you ain't listening - then you ain't listening and that is that.
No where was I, yes, the letter from the President of Chile. I want to read it, I really do. I am listening honest, but what on earth does it say. Maybe it is giving me a richly deserved humanitarian award. Or maybe recognising my services to community, my services to safety, and my services to International Relations. Or is it a tax bill, which would be strange as I pay far too much tax in the UK. Indeed from April I will be a 40% tax payer on my pension. No, I'm confident that the President wants to invite me on an all expenses paid trip to his lovely country, or maybe not. I simply do not know, and that is also a good point in respect of many things. All too often we really don't know until someone impartial points out the evidence or their impartial opinion of the matter under consideration. We think that we are getting an all expenses paid trip, when in fact it is a tax bill.
Meanwhile, lets hope that I bump into someone in Costa that can read the letter addressed to Senor Roger Bennett (with the required squiggly bit over the small letter 'n'). I want to listen, I really do. And I hope many others out there learn how to improve their listening skills. As this Blogger intends to keep shaking the tree.
That's a typical problem with communication, both parties have to interact, understand the matter, and actually listen. I recently wrote to someone that it don't matter how much you shake the tree, if you ain't listening - then you ain't listening and that is that.
Sometimes those barriers that interfere with effective listening aren't always of our own making. Sometimes something is said in mother tongue; but you simply do not understand. That doesn't necessarily mean that either party is speaking or writing a different language. No, far from it. Instead all too often people use words or phrases that simply don't make any sense. It could be that the receptor suffers from Dyslexia and the words move or are jumbled up. Or the receptor is a tad deaf. Or maybe the intended receiver doesn't exactly understand the words that are used. The words and the context don't add up, or the vocabulary simply isn't there. There is no understanding however much you move your hands or increase the volume at which you are speaking, or point at a phrase or a particular word on a page, or underline or over score the same or other words or phrases with a marker pen.
Although sometimes it is simply a case of; if you ain't listening - then you ain't listening and that is that.
No where was I, yes, the letter from the President of Chile. I want to read it, I really do. I am listening honest, but what on earth does it say. Maybe it is giving me a richly deserved humanitarian award. Or maybe recognising my services to community, my services to safety, and my services to International Relations. Or is it a tax bill, which would be strange as I pay far too much tax in the UK. Indeed from April I will be a 40% tax payer on my pension. No, I'm confident that the President wants to invite me on an all expenses paid trip to his lovely country, or maybe not. I simply do not know, and that is also a good point in respect of many things. All too often we really don't know until someone impartial points out the evidence or their impartial opinion of the matter under consideration. We think that we are getting an all expenses paid trip, when in fact it is a tax bill.
Meanwhile, lets hope that I bump into someone in Costa that can read the letter addressed to Senor Roger Bennett (with the required squiggly bit over the small letter 'n'). I want to listen, I really do. And I hope many others out there learn how to improve their listening skills. As this Blogger intends to keep shaking the tree.
11 March 2011
Break
My Blogging output has deteriorated of late. That has happened through no fault of my own. I am still as prolific as ever with my writing, I think that it's nearly 80,000 words in the last 28 days, notwithstanding two days in Cardiff to meet some extremely important people for a 5 hour meeting, and another two days, again in Cardiff to meet someone else that is becoming a bit more important in our lives.
No, the impulse to write is still there. Well it has to be really, as I now have three books on the go.
Meanwhile, a warm hello to friends in Pelotas and Sao Paulo. Thank you for hanging in there, and for visiting the Blog even though I am more absent than present. All I can say to the both of you, and the many Blog visitors from the UK at the moment, is a cheeky chappy who can write 80,000 words of sense in 24 days and consume to understand a shed load of material, should, with luck, be around to Blog for some time.
I wonder if I have written a million words, surely the answer is 'yes' with the two degrees, the published stuff, my former role, the Blog, and my current activities?
Gwela i chi pawb amser nesaf.
No, the impulse to write is still there. Well it has to be really, as I now have three books on the go.
Meanwhile, a warm hello to friends in Pelotas and Sao Paulo. Thank you for hanging in there, and for visiting the Blog even though I am more absent than present. All I can say to the both of you, and the many Blog visitors from the UK at the moment, is a cheeky chappy who can write 80,000 words of sense in 24 days and consume to understand a shed load of material, should, with luck, be around to Blog for some time.
I wonder if I have written a million words, surely the answer is 'yes' with the two degrees, the published stuff, my former role, the Blog, and my current activities?
Gwela i chi pawb amser nesaf.
Japan
I found today's events in Japan to be terribly upsetting. My heartfelt condolences go out to the friends and family of everyone involved. God be with you.
21 February 2011
Farmers
The fantastic Farmers Arms in Llanfihangel-Y-Creuddyn, Crosswood, near Aberystwyth was the venue of our Valentine Dinner this year. Bit of a paradigm really as I have tried to book a table at the Farmers time and time again, only to frequently find that they are fully booked or closed. I have been working so hard lately as explained in the previous post. I meandered downstairs on the 14th to be greeted with "Happy Valentines Day", which of course was really nice, but a bit of a blow because I thought the date was the 9th.
Now, I have at last sorted out the days of the week. That's what Retirement does for you. Everything becomes a blur and weekdays merge into weekends, and to be quite honest it doesn't really matter as I have been doing my own thing whereupon days don't really interest me. The focus occurred; because for the last three weeks I have been swimming every morning at 0730 and travelling to and from the pool on Monday to Friday. So I sort of started to understand again when it was Tuesday and so on.
So I knew what day of the week it was, but not the date. Well 'dim ots' as the Farmers took my last minute booking because the Chef had decided at the last minute to open for Valentine's Dinner.
Brilliant would be a gross understatement. We were met with Pink Champagne and a live guitarist. The boss went for fresh prawns with an astonishing dressing. I went for a cheese infused Italian delight. My fish main dish was cooked to perfection with yet another astonishing sauce. The steak was exactly as requested, medium rare. Mmmmm, there was only one choice for me on the dessert menu, Seville Tart. Presented with a heart shaped sauce and a lightness of texture that matched the quality of the oranges used. Oh, did I mention the heart shape bite sized mini rolls prior to our starters? Or the exceptional and various breads presented to the Boss with her prawns? No, ah well, there's only one thing for it. You had better hope that the Chef wants to cook again next year, and if he does, hope that he doesn't advertise early.
I was so impressed, I bought the two Chefs a drink
£25 a head, plus drinks. Bargain.
Telephone 01974 261 275
Now, I have at last sorted out the days of the week. That's what Retirement does for you. Everything becomes a blur and weekdays merge into weekends, and to be quite honest it doesn't really matter as I have been doing my own thing whereupon days don't really interest me. The focus occurred; because for the last three weeks I have been swimming every morning at 0730 and travelling to and from the pool on Monday to Friday. So I sort of started to understand again when it was Tuesday and so on.
So I knew what day of the week it was, but not the date. Well 'dim ots' as the Farmers took my last minute booking because the Chef had decided at the last minute to open for Valentine's Dinner.
Brilliant would be a gross understatement. We were met with Pink Champagne and a live guitarist. The boss went for fresh prawns with an astonishing dressing. I went for a cheese infused Italian delight. My fish main dish was cooked to perfection with yet another astonishing sauce. The steak was exactly as requested, medium rare. Mmmmm, there was only one choice for me on the dessert menu, Seville Tart. Presented with a heart shaped sauce and a lightness of texture that matched the quality of the oranges used. Oh, did I mention the heart shape bite sized mini rolls prior to our starters? Or the exceptional and various breads presented to the Boss with her prawns? No, ah well, there's only one thing for it. You had better hope that the Chef wants to cook again next year, and if he does, hope that he doesn't advertise early.
I was so impressed, I bought the two Chefs a drink
£25 a head, plus drinks. Bargain.
Telephone 01974 261 275
15 February 2011
Enjoyment
I hope that you enjoyed my feeble attempt at poetry in the last post that I made. Almost equal to my feeble attempts at Blogging. Although that's not entirely my fault as things have been a tad hectic in my family life. I have been working extremely hard to support one of the family. It has been a long old slog, and maybe one day I can tell everyone about it all. Meanwhile I shall try and log on occasionally and bring some focus back to my writing
14 February 2011
FALLEN by Roger Bennett, 14 February 2011
FALLEN
I fell,
When I first set eyes upon You.
I fell again,
When we were Married.
The fallen are loved,
The loved have Fallen,
A descent into happiness,
A fall worthy of Life.
All that is left,
Is for me to provide a Token,
A memory,
Of when I Fell.
I fell,
When I first set eyes upon You.
I fell again,
When we were Married.
The fallen are loved,
The loved have Fallen,
A descent into happiness,
A fall worthy of Life.
All that is left,
Is for me to provide a Token,
A memory,
Of when I Fell.
25 December 2010
Nadolig Llawen
Merry Christmas everyone. I'm having a great time with family and friends and it was great to bring in the 8' folding table to sit everyone down for dinner. But we mustn't forget those who are less fortunate than ourselves at this time of year. I always try and look after one family in the area, and I hope that others do the same, rather than over indulge in excess.
I have taped the Queen's speech and I am looking forward to the Christmas Edition of Dr Who, mainly because one of my favourite singers has a role in the 2010 broadcast. Dr Who that is, and not the Royal Family. Mind you, as a staunch Royalist I have no problems with a member of the Queen's family starring in a future Christmas Dr Who. Maybe a take on the Royal Wedding at Westminster and everything going OK until the Darleks arrive. No flying ones, just the scary everyday Darleks and a Black one in charge. Wooooooooooohooooooooooooooooo,
I have taped the Queen's speech and I am looking forward to the Christmas Edition of Dr Who, mainly because one of my favourite singers has a role in the 2010 broadcast. Dr Who that is, and not the Royal Family. Mind you, as a staunch Royalist I have no problems with a member of the Queen's family starring in a future Christmas Dr Who. Maybe a take on the Royal Wedding at Westminster and everything going OK until the Darleks arrive. No flying ones, just the scary everyday Darleks and a Black one in charge. Wooooooooooohooooooooooooooooo,
22 December 2010
Salty Cardiff
Well I thought Cardiff in the snow was like another world. I have never experienced anything like it, either in Ceredigion or when I was a City lad back in my Newport, South Wales days. Hats off to the Cardiff City Council; although they may be working extremely hard, they can create an image of sitting it out and making it look as if they are doing nothing. Now that's not a personal opinion, but one that was replicated whenever I talked to people across the City, and from different walks of life.
The constant theme was no gritting for the poor pedestrians, and why don't we all get a car.
Everything is geared up for the car during the snow, and broken limbs or the elderly being locked in doors seems to be the norm. In many ways it sorts of smacks in the face of the Cardiff free bike ride scheme. As the Council tries to reduce car usage, pedestrians struggling along through the deep slush or sliding on the compacted ice, all wanted cars! Good job that this is not the closing moments of a football promotion campaign as it seems to this casual observer to be one significant own goal.
Call it severe, call it the big freeze, liken it to the worst in a century, but come on folks, some grit on one side of the major pedestrian routes leading into the city and especially where there are road crossings. While I'm on my snow sledge; did any one think out the sloping pavement idea adjacent to pedestrian crossings? Fine in the good weather, but when it's poor, it's poor. Slope and ice equals falls. Little wonder that I came across two push button crossing light boxes dangling from the posts and attached only by their wires. Slope, ice, about to fall equals grab box and pray. Oh, for a little grit where it matters.
The constant theme was no gritting for the poor pedestrians, and why don't we all get a car.
Everything is geared up for the car during the snow, and broken limbs or the elderly being locked in doors seems to be the norm. In many ways it sorts of smacks in the face of the Cardiff free bike ride scheme. As the Council tries to reduce car usage, pedestrians struggling along through the deep slush or sliding on the compacted ice, all wanted cars! Good job that this is not the closing moments of a football promotion campaign as it seems to this casual observer to be one significant own goal.
Call it severe, call it the big freeze, liken it to the worst in a century, but come on folks, some grit on one side of the major pedestrian routes leading into the city and especially where there are road crossings. While I'm on my snow sledge; did any one think out the sloping pavement idea adjacent to pedestrian crossings? Fine in the good weather, but when it's poor, it's poor. Slope and ice equals falls. Little wonder that I came across two push button crossing light boxes dangling from the posts and attached only by their wires. Slope, ice, about to fall equals grab box and pray. Oh, for a little grit where it matters.
18 December 2010
The Tynllidiart Arms
I really like a good Christmas Dinner, and preferably with friends or family. We were looking for a night out and phoned around and chatted to some friends before we opted for the Tynllidiart Arms.
It is a lovely country pub with a roaring fire at this time of year. I went for a pint of the local brew and we settled down into two cosy seats for a chat and to study the menu. It was just about then when we asked if they could squeeze us into being able to have the three course Christmas menu. A few minutes later we received the brilliant news that it was game on. The restaurant upstairs is lovely, complete with good quality tables and chairs and even better quality food. The boss went for soup and I enjoyed the smooth lover pate, salad, and toast with apricot chutney. It was a superior start to a great meal. Our main Turkey choice complete with parsnips and stuffing and little piglets wrapped up, all arrived on huge plates. The three bowls of vegetables were a lovely delight with excellent sprouts, swede and carrots. To top it off the Cranberry Sauce arrived followed by Cauliflower Cheese! Wow, we were stuffed, but I still managed the superbly presented, superb tasting Christmas pudding. A huge well done the the Tynllidiart Arms in this time of recession. Quality fine dining at almost cafe prices.
The food was superb, the owner friendly, and at only £20 there was nothing wrong with the price. The Tynllidiart Arms in Wales is another strong recommendation to one and all.
The Tynllidiart Arms
Capel Bangor
Ceredigion
SY23 3LR
01970 880248
It is a lovely country pub with a roaring fire at this time of year. I went for a pint of the local brew and we settled down into two cosy seats for a chat and to study the menu. It was just about then when we asked if they could squeeze us into being able to have the three course Christmas menu. A few minutes later we received the brilliant news that it was game on. The restaurant upstairs is lovely, complete with good quality tables and chairs and even better quality food. The boss went for soup and I enjoyed the smooth lover pate, salad, and toast with apricot chutney. It was a superior start to a great meal. Our main Turkey choice complete with parsnips and stuffing and little piglets wrapped up, all arrived on huge plates. The three bowls of vegetables were a lovely delight with excellent sprouts, swede and carrots. To top it off the Cranberry Sauce arrived followed by Cauliflower Cheese! Wow, we were stuffed, but I still managed the superbly presented, superb tasting Christmas pudding. A huge well done the the Tynllidiart Arms in this time of recession. Quality fine dining at almost cafe prices.
The food was superb, the owner friendly, and at only £20 there was nothing wrong with the price. The Tynllidiart Arms in Wales is another strong recommendation to one and all.
The Tynllidiart Arms
Capel Bangor
Ceredigion
SY23 3LR
01970 880248
17 December 2010
Snow
As the United Kingdom is gripped with yet another Big Freeze, the Weather Forecasters correctly forecasted that we would also experience the white stuff. I have not seen this much snow on the coast for many a good year. Wow, there must have been 3.5 inches when we woke up this morning. And its been a great day! Travelling to town because the boss had an appointment that just could not wait, and then breakfast at the fantastic Butchers Cafe in Bow Street, a village just north of Aberystwyth.
If that wasn't enough, I also managed to pack in several hours of fun in the snow. On the pretext of cleaning the drive and the path, but the reality was that the moved snow enabled me to build a steam engine. Not any old Snow Steam Engine mind you, but one that worked! I planted a flower pot in the chimney and burnt some dead leaves and cardboard so there was smoke coming out. to top it off, we placed tea-lights inside glass jars and placed four of these on top of the Choo choo. Very nice indeed, especially with the twinkles on the tree. That's what Christmas is all about. Enjoying the scenery and mucking about with the kids. It was great fun and all of the problems have washed over today. Especially when the eldest handed me my second glass of mulled wine at 9pm.
16 December 2010
Christmas Time
Wow, I am absolutely bowled over. My Blogger statistics on Google Analytics show that access to the Blog is up by almost 200% since I last checked. Normally in any given period there are visits from 3 or 4 countries, but on this occasion readers from the following ten countries (in no particular order) have popped along to have a peek. The United Kingdom, the United States of America, Ghana, Macedonia, Germany, Finland, Iraq, Poland, Canada, Brazil.Now I can write a bit about most of those countries: I live in the United Kingdom, although when I drill down into the Google statistics I sometimes come across names of communities that I either did not know existed, or knew the name but could not place them on the map. As for the good old USA warm greetings once again to everyone across the Pond. I have always wanted to visit the States, but instead financed two of our daughters having a great week in New York. Lucky them, and maybe, just maybe, one of the Presidents will invite me over for a chin wag. Another President that I would like to sit down with and share a cuppa is the President of Ghana. Now there’s a lovely country, which is full of lovely people. Now Macedonia is a bit tricky, as to my eternal shame, like some of the communities in the UK, I am unable to picture Macedonia on the map. My job for the day is to locate Macedonia (not that it's lost) and to learn a little bit more about the country. Now everyone knows a bit about Germany, and we have stopped on three occasions at a lovely hotel in Germany. Once again, great people, great food, great scenery. But I have never been as far afield as Finland, although I was signed up to a Finnish modelling site once. No, I’m not a good looking Nordic sought of chap; this was a 1/35th and 1/72nd scale model site. Iraq is the same but without the modelling website. I can imagine that it would be quite cool (or is that hot) to pop along and see the country, but not in the current political climate, and certainly not without an armoured car that can withstand an IED. Now Poland brings back fond memories, very fond memories indeed. Not that I have ever visited Poland. No, it’s because my first two girlfriends were Polish and throughout my life there has always been a twinkle in my eye for any Polish lass. Canada is my prime must go and see location. I have no excuse now as we have friends living in Canada and another friend with a property for holiday letting. I suppose my ‘all star’ trip would be Canada and the snow, and a several day train journey with good food and scenery. And as for Brazil, well one of my lovely followers comes from that country, so there is no more to be said than it must be a lovely place.
Oh, there is just one thing to add: wherever you are, and whatever your first language; Nadolig Llawen i bawb – Merry Christmas to everyone.
10 December 2010
Cards
With Christmas looming, it's time to check up on old friends and ensure that I have all of their addresses ready to send out our Christmas Cards across the UK and beyond. The destinations include cards being sent as far away as England, Scotland, Canada, and Africa.
This years hand made version includes a photo of Mr Tister with special effects applied by the skilled camera hands of Jodi. Previous versions have included Mr Tister in Santa's garb, but this yeas the photograph applied to the front of the card, is an image of Mr Tister wrapped up for the Winter and out playing with Nanny and the others in the woods. The computer artwork on the inside and on the back was designed by yours truly. Strange really, as I took a while, whereas not that long ago I was a keen computer graphic artist. I swore by CorelDraw, but put together this card using WORD. Funny thing is, I'm clearing out the garage at the moment to install a large 00 layout. It's been cold work, and to warm up the numb fingers I have had a few fires going. The fire that I lit two days ago, was started and fed with the printed copies of my old computer artwork. Well, the paper was a tad damp, and I do live in hope that I will be able to find those floppy disks somewhere.
The Christmas Cards were glued together by the Boss and adorned with Christmas decorations and glitter. Ah wonderful, the Season of giving and remembering. And with all this snow in Wales and elsewhere in the UK; it even feels like Christmas.
This years hand made version includes a photo of Mr Tister with special effects applied by the skilled camera hands of Jodi. Previous versions have included Mr Tister in Santa's garb, but this yeas the photograph applied to the front of the card, is an image of Mr Tister wrapped up for the Winter and out playing with Nanny and the others in the woods. The computer artwork on the inside and on the back was designed by yours truly. Strange really, as I took a while, whereas not that long ago I was a keen computer graphic artist. I swore by CorelDraw, but put together this card using WORD. Funny thing is, I'm clearing out the garage at the moment to install a large 00 layout. It's been cold work, and to warm up the numb fingers I have had a few fires going. The fire that I lit two days ago, was started and fed with the printed copies of my old computer artwork. Well, the paper was a tad damp, and I do live in hope that I will be able to find those floppy disks somewhere.
The Christmas Cards were glued together by the Boss and adorned with Christmas decorations and glitter. Ah wonderful, the Season of giving and remembering. And with all this snow in Wales and elsewhere in the UK; it even feels like Christmas.
6 December 2010
4 December 2010
Sainsburys Perfect Christmas 2010
I'm not sure that THESUPPORTOMETER is working; so why don't you click on the link http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan and try it out for yourself! :-) Merry Christmas. Ps you can vote again everyday
3 December 2010
War Paint
Hi folks, it's war paint whichever way you look at it. Tribal markings, specific design for specific purposes, or make up to attract a partner. It's all facial decoration, and the skill is in the application. The Url link http://www.lippyeyesblog.blogspot.com/ boasts of "Eyes that Talk" and I'm not surprised. This is especially so given that the aspiring make-up artist is one of my daughters. If you check out the LippEyes Blog by Hollie Bennett then you will also find an Url link to the LippyEyes YouTube Channel. That Channel has had over 1,000 views already! To put that in context, that's 1,000 hits in little over a week or so. The Blog also boasts another Url link to a slideshow showing you how I built her stand alone Make-up unit complete with mirror and three independently controlled daylight tubes. The Make-up unit has really helped with the videos and the next stage is to build a backdrop. Not any old backdrop mind you, but one that builds upon the LippEyes marketing triangle. The relevant .com, .co.uk, and several other Web domain names have been bought. Our family marketing expert has designed the LippEyes static logo and the animation logo. So bit by bit we are carefully applying the war paint. Meanwhile check out the LippyEyes Blog, but don't get too tied up, as you also have to remember to vote on the Sainsbury Christmas Competition!
2 December 2010
I'm not bribing you
The competition at http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan is still ongoing and if we have any chance of winning then we need your daily support. We seem to be doing well. Well as well as can be expected as the decision regarding the winner is due to be made in the next few days. Now I'm not trying to bribe you, I just want yout o support a technically sound entry made on behalf of the lovely people in this part of the World. It's been a technical submission, and I think that presentation has come up to scratch. Although I don't want to lull anyone into a false sense of security, similar to the England World Cup bid.
I don't know what on earth went wrong with the England bid. From being almost there, to finding that you went out in the first round, must be a bit hard to bite off. Plus it all happened faster than you could say 'Panorama'. I think Wales or Ghana would have had a better chance at hosting the World Cup. Worse than that, Wales or Ghana have a better chance of being awarded the 2018 World cup by default than Ger-y-Llan winning the http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan competition. But go on, have a vote, yes do it, there's no need for voter apathy and you can vote away in the sound knowledge that there's no bribe coming your way
I don't know what on earth went wrong with the England bid. From being almost there, to finding that you went out in the first round, must be a bit hard to bite off. Plus it all happened faster than you could say 'Panorama'. I think Wales or Ghana would have had a better chance at hosting the World Cup. Worse than that, Wales or Ghana have a better chance of being awarded the 2018 World cup by default than Ger-y-Llan winning the http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan competition. But go on, have a vote, yes do it, there's no need for voter apathy and you can vote away in the sound knowledge that there's no bribe coming your way
1 December 2010
Don't forget to cut and paste and vote!
http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan
Only 9 Days to Go
No silly, not until Christmas Day! There are 9 days to go in the sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk competition for which Ger-y-Llan has been entered. So I need you all to keep well, avoid the flu bugs, stay wrapped up in the warm and don't venture outside into the snow. Unless of course you live in Africa, in which case if it's snowing then you have my permission to seize a once in a lifetime opportunity to pop outside and have a snowball fight.
You can support Ger-y-Llan on each of the 9 days that are left of the Christmas Street Competition. YES, you can vote again every day and YES you can encourage your friends on FACEBOOK and Twit-ter and elsewhere to vote for us as well.
We can win the Sainbury's comp, but only with your help. The perfect Christmas for me and my neighbours with Sainsbury’s. A carol-singing choir, huge piles of snow, a massive tree, fireworks and festive food and drink could all be coming our way. Well maybe not, as I never win competitions. But then again everyone is a winner as this is as good an excuse as any to do some Blogging and spread some Christmas cheer. As for 'snow in Africa', around 1999 a photograph of my double appeared on the front page of the (London) TIMES Newspaper throwing a snowball at an Israeli Tank. Now I don't know what surprised me the most: (1) my friends in Preston shouting out "Rog, you're on the front page of the Times", (2) the realisation that it can snow in that part of the World during the daytime, (3) why the offender was only throwing a snowball and not something more sinister, as a snowball seemed out of context to the situation, (4) thinking thank goodness it's not the United States as Cops take Guns to snowball fights there, but then again try trumping a tank, (5) who is this guy taking my identity, and (6) thank goodness the tanks didn't fire. So folks, maybe snow spreads good cheer and allows a bit of common sense to float to the surface. let's hope for lot's of snow in Iran then, rather than bombs placed on car windows. Oh, by the way, don't forget to cut and paste the link and vote for us!
You can support Ger-y-Llan on each of the 9 days that are left of the Christmas Street Competition. YES, you can vote again every day and YES you can encourage your friends on FACEBOOK and Twit-ter and elsewhere to vote for us as well.
We can win the Sainbury's comp, but only with your help. The perfect Christmas for me and my neighbours with Sainsbury’s. A carol-singing choir, huge piles of snow, a massive tree, fireworks and festive food and drink could all be coming our way. Well maybe not, as I never win competitions. But then again everyone is a winner as this is as good an excuse as any to do some Blogging and spread some Christmas cheer. As for 'snow in Africa', around 1999 a photograph of my double appeared on the front page of the (London) TIMES Newspaper throwing a snowball at an Israeli Tank. Now I don't know what surprised me the most: (1) my friends in Preston shouting out "Rog, you're on the front page of the Times", (2) the realisation that it can snow in that part of the World during the daytime, (3) why the offender was only throwing a snowball and not something more sinister, as a snowball seemed out of context to the situation, (4) thinking thank goodness it's not the United States as Cops take Guns to snowball fights there, but then again try trumping a tank, (5) who is this guy taking my identity, and (6) thank goodness the tanks didn't fire. So folks, maybe snow spreads good cheer and allows a bit of common sense to float to the surface. let's hope for lot's of snow in Iran then, rather than bombs placed on car windows. Oh, by the way, don't forget to cut and paste the link and vote for us!
28 November 2010
Sainsburys Perfect Christmas 2010
Cast your vote for this years Sainsburys Perfect Christmas 2010 Competition simply by cutting and pasting the following Web link into your Browser and then register your vote: http://sainsburysperfectchristmas.co.uk/Street/sy23-ger-y-llan and thereby elevate Ger-y-Llan in Wales into the Final of the Competition. Go on, do it; you know you want to.
Remember that you can vote again each and every day!
Remember that you can vote again each and every day!
26 November 2010
Brrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
I know from checking out the seasonal weather forecast for Bangladesh that Sylhet only drops to 7 degrees in the month of January. So there is little chance that the residents in and around Sylhet are enjoying the newly arrived snow that we have in the United Kingdom.It's only November, and I now wish that I had bought that snow sledge a few months back during our short lived UK summer. It's typical isn't it? When you don't need something there is plenty about, and when you want it, there's a shortage. I mean, you don't expect snow so soon after Bonfire Night do you?
It's all gone Paul Potts. The weather is all messed up, this year is the worst Apprentice ever, and I don't intend commenting on 'Strictly'. To do so, would be a waste of a few good lines of text. Nope, it's all gone to pot, and it's time to have some fun in the snow. Mmmmmmmm, pity I don't have a sledge.
Sylhet
I have just been reading about the city of Sylhet in north-eastern Bangladesh. A friend of ours comes from Sylhet and I must admit that I knew nothing about the City, the region, and its people. I was also unaware of the extensive links between Sylhet and several communities in the United Kingdom. These links have been strengthened over time through the creation of 'Friendship Agreements', ' Memorandum of Understandings', and good old 'Twinning'.
25 November 2010
Not quite a photo finish
Well Mr Tister came in the top 1600. Which isn't too bad as he was number 20,000 or something early on in the 2010 NEXT Baby Competition 18-36 month age group on Facebook. OK, I know that I am biased, but I truly believe that it's NEXT's loss. I understand that Social Networking sites are about support and profile. The more social network type friends that you have, then the more likely it is that you can accumulate votes. I also understand that when there are 60,000+ entrants, it's extremely difficult to get recognised. Well, it's not as if Mr and Mrs Joe Public are going to trawl through some 2,500 pages to decide where to cast their vote for The NEXT Baby Competition.
But being a realist does not preclude me from having a good old moan. If you want the best entrants with looks and personality then you need a system of fair assessment. Whereas if you want the children of popular relatives, then you use a social network site. After all the process should generate new marketing leads, so the higher the number of email address then the better. Less of course those emails that were submitted by the same persons from some random email database, or false email addresses or long defunct email addresses. Because whether we like it or not, and however hard we try and scrutinise entries that require an email address, such systems are inherently flawed. The only fail-safe is where a competition organiser has software or IT personnel who can track the unique electronic location of single or multiple repetitive inputs. Now this doesn't mean that there was any wrongdoing with the NEXT competition, or that the scrutiny was in any way inadequate, or that any relatives or associates of any of the 48 winners done anything untoward. It's just a matter of explaining in terms of social science how things can go astray if not kept in check. And anyhow, many others have far more eloquently expressed their concerns on the NEXT Wall on Facebook in the closing phase of the competition, than I could explain the matter in this short Blog.
But even though it was not a photo finish, Mr Tister does appear on a few photographs in this Blog, and NEXT, MotherCare, Marks & Spencers and any other of the big brands can make a bid, if they would like Tister modelling their next range. Mr Tister lives in London, and although the cost of living is high, I have heard that his clothes modelling rates are good.
But being a realist does not preclude me from having a good old moan. If you want the best entrants with looks and personality then you need a system of fair assessment. Whereas if you want the children of popular relatives, then you use a social network site. After all the process should generate new marketing leads, so the higher the number of email address then the better. Less of course those emails that were submitted by the same persons from some random email database, or false email addresses or long defunct email addresses. Because whether we like it or not, and however hard we try and scrutinise entries that require an email address, such systems are inherently flawed. The only fail-safe is where a competition organiser has software or IT personnel who can track the unique electronic location of single or multiple repetitive inputs. Now this doesn't mean that there was any wrongdoing with the NEXT competition, or that the scrutiny was in any way inadequate, or that any relatives or associates of any of the 48 winners done anything untoward. It's just a matter of explaining in terms of social science how things can go astray if not kept in check. And anyhow, many others have far more eloquently expressed their concerns on the NEXT Wall on Facebook in the closing phase of the competition, than I could explain the matter in this short Blog.
But even though it was not a photo finish, Mr Tister does appear on a few photographs in this Blog, and NEXT, MotherCare, Marks & Spencers and any other of the big brands can make a bid, if they would like Tister modelling their next range. Mr Tister lives in London, and although the cost of living is high, I have heard that his clothes modelling rates are good.
18 November 2010
Mr Tister for President
Well not quite President, but your vote may help Mr Tister to win a baby competition (Justin Entry ID: 1108385). His Mum left it awefully late to submit his entry. However we have seen his position tumble from 3,600th to 1,600th. Although with only 24 hours to go it's highly unlikely that he will make the top few who make it to the photo shoot. So here's your chance to add to his tally and log your much needed vote and thereby 'Keep Hope Alive'. Cut and paste the following link and then vote away folks, vote away: http://apps.facebook.com/baby_modelcomp/entry/1108385?ref=nf
17 November 2010
The Great Gurkhas
Nepalese Cuisine is really nice. I first came across the delicate flavours and presentation in of all places an Indian restaurant in England a few years back. Some of the staff at the restaurant were Nepalese and a few of the dishes in a small section of the menu reflected their culture. I decided on that occasion to opt for a Nepalese dish and thought that it was a stunning experience.
With that in mind it was lovely to be walking through the lovely ‘town’ of Weybridge on the weekend and stumble across a Nepalese restaurant. I made up my mind there and then, that we would down there that night. We spent the evening with ‘Mr Tister’ and when it was his bedtime we struck out back to Weybridge and had a lovely pint of Flowers before settling down in the Great Gurkhas.
The boss went for Nepalese Kukhura Masala with Gurkhali Bhat, whereas I opted for Anda Bhat (Egg and spring onions stir fried with boiled rice) to accompany Himalayan Chicken with the boneless chicken breast cooked in a sauce of yogurt and chilli with a hint of cream. As Mr Tister would say “Yummy”.
The food was great, the staff were lovely, the presentation was excellent, the price was superb. The Great Gurkhas in Weybridge is a strong recommendation to one and all.
The Great Gurkhas
27a Church Street
Weybridge
Surrey
KT13 8DG
With that in mind it was lovely to be walking through the lovely ‘town’ of Weybridge on the weekend and stumble across a Nepalese restaurant. I made up my mind there and then, that we would down there that night. We spent the evening with ‘Mr Tister’ and when it was his bedtime we struck out back to Weybridge and had a lovely pint of Flowers before settling down in the Great Gurkhas.
The boss went for Nepalese Kukhura Masala with Gurkhali Bhat, whereas I opted for Anda Bhat (Egg and spring onions stir fried with boiled rice) to accompany Himalayan Chicken with the boneless chicken breast cooked in a sauce of yogurt and chilli with a hint of cream. As Mr Tister would say “Yummy”.
The food was great, the staff were lovely, the presentation was excellent, the price was superb. The Great Gurkhas in Weybridge is a strong recommendation to one and all.
The Great Gurkhas
27a Church Street
Weybridge
Surrey
KT13 8DG
12 November 2010
Mr Tister
We are due to travel and visit Mr Tister in the London Metropolis tomorrow. The car is packed and the journey and hotel are planned. But should I also pack a Chess set?Working on the premise, that a father teaches a child to play chess and the child becomes a stronger player than the father. I believe that this is because you impart your knowledge and experience as part of the social science learning explained by Norbert Elias i.e. 'the child becomes the parent'. But of course, the child also gains exposure to their own experiences and learning by studying alone, playing with others, or reading about or watching games, openings, strategy, and tactics that the teacher has never seen. Given that I'm the Grandfather, and that I played once or twice for Wales and scalped a few of the Welsh Olympiad Team; does it follow that Mr Tister may become a great chess player?
Or, will he become a Train Driver because of my love of choo choo's? Mmmmmm, that's a social science dilemma to ponder, as I twist and twirl through the Welsh countryside and whiz along the M4. Not too much whizzing though, as road safety is also an important part of my life. I wonder, will the bridge be closed with all of these high winds? If it is closed, how do you get to London? Gosh, I have a lot to think about tomorrow. But then again, not as much as the Mayor of Mandaluyong.
Mandaluyong
The City of Mandaluyong in the Republic of the Philippines is the latest City to host a Blog reader who has visited this Blog. Wiki cites the name as (Filipino: Lungsod ng Mandaluyong). The official website for the City of Mandaluyong informs us that Benjamin C. Abalos, Jr. is the City Mayor.
According to the official Website, the City of Mandaluyong is in the heart of Metropolitan Manila. It is plausible that the Website statement that "Mandaluyong has several places of interest that tourists and visitors can see while in the city" is a gross understatement. There are probably a host of significant and wonderful delights meeting the lucky 'tourists and visitors' that grab an opportunity to visit Mandaluyong. I think it's more of an understatement than a lack of attractions, and on that point, I send greetings from Wales to City Mayor, the Blog reader, and the people of Mandaluyong.
It's a Mile
I managed 72 lengths of the swimming pool at Aberystwyth University on Monday, and carried on through for another 60 lengths in the same pool on Thursday.
I'm well chuffed with both sessions, but I have to admit that the 51st length on Monday was very hard going. Strangely though, once I made it to 60 lengths, the last 12 were a dawdle. I completed Monday's session with 24 lengths and a short breather, then another 24 and a short breather, followed by 12 and 12. All 72 were front crawl. The stroke used was also good news as the last time I managed a mile, it was broken down into 15 length segments. With each segment consisting of 5 lengths of front crawl, 5 breast stroke, and 5 with a leg float followed by a rest.
I'm well chuffed with both sessions, but I have to admit that the 51st length on Monday was very hard going. Strangely though, once I made it to 60 lengths, the last 12 were a dawdle. I completed Monday's session with 24 lengths and a short breather, then another 24 and a short breather, followed by 12 and 12. All 72 were front crawl. The stroke used was also good news as the last time I managed a mile, it was broken down into 15 length segments. With each segment consisting of 5 lengths of front crawl, 5 breast stroke, and 5 with a leg float followed by a rest.
2 November 2010
Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani
In my humble opinion, the widely reported decision by the Islamic Republic of Iran that the execution Ms Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani is imminent; is wrong on every level. The execution will not make the matter disappear. It would be far better for the authorities to accept that execution is wrong, and instead embrace the offers of asylum that have been made to the Republic by World statesmen who are concerned about the execution.
Those that think that World opinion doesn't matter are naive to the extreme. It does matter, and the execution will strengthen and not diminish World resolve. It is time for the Islamic Republic of Iran to rethink its strategy. Iran has so much to offer the World, and it's quite sad that so much negativity is generated when so much good could exist.
Please don't execute Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani. Instead, release her into the care of those that have offered asylum. The rewards will far outweigh the perceived quick win. It is a mistake to believe that undertaking the execution, in the face of World opinion, will strengthen the Republic's position. The outcome will be contrary to what the Republic is hoping to achieve. Whereas the release of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani would be a huge step forward for the Republic. An opportunity to rebuild its position on the World stage. It's time to stop looking at tactics and to start thinking of strategy.
The hardest part of 'change', is to listen. No one likes to be told what to do, and when we are told, we usually don't like what we hear. It doesn't matter if you are a small child, a Managing Director, a politician, or Head of State. The theory is the same, we like to make choices, and not do what we are told, or do something out of choice, that then looks to the casual onlooker as if it was done because we were told. To be blunt no one has the right to tell the Iranian authorities what to do.
Instead, I make this plea as a humble person, as someone without influence and with nothing to gain. Please, please, please release Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani.
Those that think that World opinion doesn't matter are naive to the extreme. It does matter, and the execution will strengthen and not diminish World resolve. It is time for the Islamic Republic of Iran to rethink its strategy. Iran has so much to offer the World, and it's quite sad that so much negativity is generated when so much good could exist.
Please don't execute Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani. Instead, release her into the care of those that have offered asylum. The rewards will far outweigh the perceived quick win. It is a mistake to believe that undertaking the execution, in the face of World opinion, will strengthen the Republic's position. The outcome will be contrary to what the Republic is hoping to achieve. Whereas the release of Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani would be a huge step forward for the Republic. An opportunity to rebuild its position on the World stage. It's time to stop looking at tactics and to start thinking of strategy.
The hardest part of 'change', is to listen. No one likes to be told what to do, and when we are told, we usually don't like what we hear. It doesn't matter if you are a small child, a Managing Director, a politician, or Head of State. The theory is the same, we like to make choices, and not do what we are told, or do something out of choice, that then looks to the casual onlooker as if it was done because we were told. To be blunt no one has the right to tell the Iranian authorities what to do.
Instead, I make this plea as a humble person, as someone without influence and with nothing to gain. Please, please, please release Sakineh Mohammadi Ashtiani.
1 November 2010
The Best Kept Secret in Wales
I suppose that when someone writes about 'the Best Kept Secret in Wales' with a 'food' label to the Blog post; it conjures up images of the Harbour Master in Aberaeon, Ichiban in Cardiff, and other strong Regional Contenders. A few of which are local to my home town and may be a tad miffed at not being named here.
But hey ho folks, you can't please all of the people - all of the time, and today is just one of those days. It's the morning after the night before (well in this case, the evening after) and I am in a Blogging mood. A happy Blogging mood at that. I met a lovely lady in Cardiff last night and that was enough to bring a smile to any one's face. And they say that smiling is the best thing for complexion and to avoid wrinkles. So I have been smiling all day long.
And it has been a long day. I had to jaunt around the City looking for some odds and ends to buy, and I had to cram in some DIY at the flat. It's also a long drive back home, and there's nothing better on a long drive, than to stop the car and to have a break. This is where the Tafarn Ffostrasol Arms comes to the fore in this Blog.
The Ffostrasol Arms was good the last time around, this time it was even better. Diners continue to be treated to great decor, excellent service from customer friendly staff, and superb food at a fair price. Last time I indulged in the double pork chops with apple. The chops were accompanied by home made chips and nice vegetables and pour over gravy. This time around, I opted for the equally as stunning home baked Steak and Ale pie with puff pastry. Excellent chips, lovely vegetables and a pie that was so large it looked like a casserole. Many a time I am disappointed by the frozen chip brigade. I have even asked at the door of posh restaurants and walked out. My brother and I simply don't understand why anyone in the catering business would sell themselves short with frozen chips. Indeed the chips are so good at the Frostrasol Arms, that we wondered if they had a chip shop out the back. The waitress denied the suggestion; but how can a chef conjure up such a delight in a small kitchen. Well it can't be that small, as apparently 156 customers sat down to Sunday lunch at the Ffostrasol Arms yesterday. Am I surprised? No I'm not, so don't be a dork and when you get a chance, pop along to the best kept secret in Wales. Telephone 01239 851348 (PS when booking please mention Roger, the lovely chap with the flat in Cardiff, Betty will know who that is)
But hey ho folks, you can't please all of the people - all of the time, and today is just one of those days. It's the morning after the night before (well in this case, the evening after) and I am in a Blogging mood. A happy Blogging mood at that. I met a lovely lady in Cardiff last night and that was enough to bring a smile to any one's face. And they say that smiling is the best thing for complexion and to avoid wrinkles. So I have been smiling all day long.
And it has been a long day. I had to jaunt around the City looking for some odds and ends to buy, and I had to cram in some DIY at the flat. It's also a long drive back home, and there's nothing better on a long drive, than to stop the car and to have a break. This is where the Tafarn Ffostrasol Arms comes to the fore in this Blog.
The Ffostrasol Arms was good the last time around, this time it was even better. Diners continue to be treated to great decor, excellent service from customer friendly staff, and superb food at a fair price. Last time I indulged in the double pork chops with apple. The chops were accompanied by home made chips and nice vegetables and pour over gravy. This time around, I opted for the equally as stunning home baked Steak and Ale pie with puff pastry. Excellent chips, lovely vegetables and a pie that was so large it looked like a casserole. Many a time I am disappointed by the frozen chip brigade. I have even asked at the door of posh restaurants and walked out. My brother and I simply don't understand why anyone in the catering business would sell themselves short with frozen chips. Indeed the chips are so good at the Frostrasol Arms, that we wondered if they had a chip shop out the back. The waitress denied the suggestion; but how can a chef conjure up such a delight in a small kitchen. Well it can't be that small, as apparently 156 customers sat down to Sunday lunch at the Ffostrasol Arms yesterday. Am I surprised? No I'm not, so don't be a dork and when you get a chance, pop along to the best kept secret in Wales. Telephone 01239 851348 (PS when booking please mention Roger, the lovely chap with the flat in Cardiff, Betty will know who that is)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Custom Search
