tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32453936537854272272024-02-26T10:52:45.347-08:00Rams Author BlogA blog page to share my writing, ideas, seek new inspiration and connect with the world.
https://about.me/rpgulrajani
Twitter. @Author_man_ram and my website is
http://rockape65.wix.com/rpg-booksRamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.comBlogger1062125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-3430166952889073502024-02-26T10:51:00.001-08:002024-02-26T10:52:13.168-08:00My first foray into Al This is my first foray into A. I. with this promo video for <a href="https://youtu.be/4lGRsIGAtrI?si=IjZGMz3MSv0UDwIt">Phobic Wars</a> .<div>Please have a look at it and let me know your thoughts but more importantly, enjoy it... May share it?</div><div>Thanks folks</div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-79918497791428352302024-02-26T10:49:00.000-08:002024-02-26T10:49:10.650-08:00AI promo for Legally Lucky <div>Please have a look and let me know your thoughts on this short #promoVideo for my book <a href="https://youtu.be/yUKg1fPgchw?si=fdC5D2h_FgHB54T-">Legally Lucky</a>. It would be great if you could share with your contacts, followers and keen reading individuals. </div><div><br></div><div><br><div><br></div></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-81196764112525689172023-05-12T09:48:00.002-07:002023-05-12T10:00:53.450-07:00summer holidays ready<div><br></div>It's nearly time to get ready for fun and frolics on the beach. <div>Summer 2023 is just about to hit us, so... Get beach ready. </div><div>New swimwear, new towel, suntan lotion, drinks, picnic and.. A good book. Better still a coue of good stories to cast your mind away and help you achieve that 'Zen' moment of total chill.. </div><div>Check the books out on Amazon. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTJn32IsmxIocqXXk6i2WTSPoFTrVx0jtabhUNJ3Wi7wgpPWZ7-6MnjrbGyYhuMACBWCeNQmMTNX9ULeWI2l-1tg2I3tUwr7fqIIcWWbdhu0q4AYV7AkP3WB4lwZ9vcJQtbe_P0mb1zvaTiWzhsD8VVG5lLL4AJFor2X7uN-oumUocGKD7ZEIZP1yetg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTJn32IsmxIocqXXk6i2WTSPoFTrVx0jtabhUNJ3Wi7wgpPWZ7-6MnjrbGyYhuMACBWCeNQmMTNX9ULeWI2l-1tg2I3tUwr7fqIIcWWbdhu0q4AYV7AkP3WB4lwZ9vcJQtbe_P0mb1zvaTiWzhsD8VVG5lLL4AJFor2X7uN-oumUocGKD7ZEIZP1yetg" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div>There's even one for the youngest members of the family... <b>I Don't Like It </b>is the book for them. Easy to read with a positive message </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigkMIi-_EJMnME39aMDLC86Ea159XWdPGk8tH6dSSvurOD96QaQPyD7tT3ZsTlcm14Hs71LRUoYvlQBUGBgZL5FluJutXI7M9k254KiAjIpqu1ppnmp3IU3VFZuPv_SLlDHH4qnnahFV9FS33VncaWJ4MSx-mHn0s_w0MQbAYIoiL5mTAhUfZ3Kw-rmw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEigkMIi-_EJMnME39aMDLC86Ea159XWdPGk8tH6dSSvurOD96QaQPyD7tT3ZsTlcm14Hs71LRUoYvlQBUGBgZL5FluJutXI7M9k254KiAjIpqu1ppnmp3IU3VFZuPv_SLlDHH4qnnahFV9FS33VncaWJ4MSx-mHn0s_w0MQbAYIoiL5mTAhUfZ3Kw-rmw" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-26210543512720986102023-05-03T16:37:00.001-07:002023-05-03T16:37:18.302-07:00My latest Instagram postPhantasms In the Infirmary <div>A book dedicated to multiple ghost stories collected over many years of working in hospitals.. Dare to visit? <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisGa-cX8AxbWuiJkem3n03y1BYtgBgsm9ReolygkG-_Ky36k0NqmTg_jZsSaoQrHJHVG_g6n5UKWlCrIXTvHvpZJLujWje8qZkTBIQRm3zALkZ7PRoOZicuM_NISOxtrkOjfOHL8bksHAKtg0P5Tgfu00axMzodJiyliVkbXA48DMRA6Tia9x581ZUfQ" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEisGa-cX8AxbWuiJkem3n03y1BYtgBgsm9ReolygkG-_Ky36k0NqmTg_jZsSaoQrHJHVG_g6n5UKWlCrIXTvHvpZJLujWje8qZkTBIQRm3zALkZ7PRoOZicuM_NISOxtrkOjfOHL8bksHAKtg0P5Tgfu00axMzodJiyliVkbXA48DMRA6Tia9x581ZUfQ" width="400">
</a>
</div></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-8455837050866715272023-05-02T06:10:00.002-07:002023-05-02T06:10:59.654-07:00Gibraltarian Crime Writing Gibraltar, my home town and the setting for many a drama, including some 007 inspirations. <div>For those of you who have read my novels Mental Dental (Murder by Proxy) and Obsession Of The Damned, you will realise I have a passion for crime writing. Fiction based on this genre is not unique to my writing and the reason could be where I was born? </div><div><br></div><div>Gibraltar has inspired many authors. </div><div>The following link explores the writer, <a href="https://crimereads.com/ian-flemings-war-and-the-real-life-operation-golden-eye/">Ian Fleming</a>, famous for James Bond and the tie between Gibraltar and his writing.</div><div><br></div><div>Crime writing is also discussed in the link about <a href="https://crimereads.com/ian-flemings-war-and-the-real-life-operation-golden-eye/">Crime in the City </a> where the enclave is the setting for many a novel in this genre. </div><div><br></div><div>In the mean time, keep on reading. </div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-77107413231107789802023-04-28T15:31:00.001-07:002023-04-28T15:31:11.633-07:00Mental Dental is now available in Ukrainian <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8EpTqQ9fWvwVJ4BSghaT5EUWmom3oApoKmw4KswQfT-YTTMi2jxys2g-c3x0F5GJxXCCDpZdoB2DOCbQmHmStzoMRoimImkzFHulu1cLxxj78xQ4zN_OA8HQgmoBWh-zpwX7u3Bdd1IrXvkPLxKFgO9hHsWQMxeXCXPmEEgWwKCj5ZoDfcvuVnfgfUw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh8EpTqQ9fWvwVJ4BSghaT5EUWmom3oApoKmw4KswQfT-YTTMi2jxys2g-c3x0F5GJxXCCDpZdoB2DOCbQmHmStzoMRoimImkzFHulu1cLxxj78xQ4zN_OA8HQgmoBWh-zpwX7u3Bdd1IrXvkPLxKFgO9hHsWQMxeXCXPmEEgWwKCj5ZoDfcvuVnfgfUw" width="400">
</a>
</div>As an author, I shouldn't have favourites. My books are written with the pleasure and priviledge of sharing them.<div>However #MentalDental id probably my personal favourite. </div><div><br></div><div>I wrote it in English and wanted to share the experience within in more than one language. </div><div>Thankfully, I am bilingual in English and Spanish but that's only 2 languages and there are many more out there but 'Slowly Slowly Catchy Monkey' </div><div><br><div>I have therefore now written Mental Dental (Murder by Proxy) in Spanish obvious, however now it's also available in Ukrainian (Thanks to my Sister in Law). Larisa, painstakingly translated my manuscript into Ukrainian. She enjoyed the process and the story. </div><div>Now it's your turn to read this page turner and then see if you can handle going to the dentist from then on... </div><div><br></div><div>It is available on Amazon as a must read Paperback in Ukraine and World wide. </div><div><br></div><div>The exciting story of murders, heroism and determination will leave you wanting more... So for that 'Obsession Of The Damned' is available. The continuation from MDMBP, however, this is only available in English... For Now!</div></div><div><br></div><div>So don't wait anymore.. Amazon ES: search for- Locura Dental (Asesinato Por Apoderado) ...Рам Гулраджані and 1 more</div><div>Психіатрична стоматологія: (вбивство за дорученням) in Ukrainian.</div><div><br></div><div>Cool 😎 🤘 </div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-27520068534429808322023-02-22T15:49:00.001-08:002023-02-22T15:49:06.723-08:00Phantasms PromoSo, once the book is written, that's the easy bit done...<div>Seriously, selling books, stories and novels takes the next steps to be taken energetically. This is especially true if you are self publishing.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4yDXLFdiCsFjelDH2vDczev3sYVDhDhuH-8pCaAZUfstWKUwe11I77DQXij5o6cG4_t4S2QVNIGyQm3I5Vi1CBKdoT-iqueLfC0lF5QwYH9VjXK37wp_y14oZQ-lR6YCGhsp4OTAuA7I/s1600/1677109743639157-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF4yDXLFdiCsFjelDH2vDczev3sYVDhDhuH-8pCaAZUfstWKUwe11I77DQXij5o6cG4_t4S2QVNIGyQm3I5Vi1CBKdoT-iqueLfC0lF5QwYH9VjXK37wp_y14oZQ-lR6YCGhsp4OTAuA7I/s1600/1677109743639157-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div>from Instagram posts to TikTok vids, it all takes time and a little imagination.</div><div><a href="https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMYS3DdgV/">Phantasms vid</a> will show you one of my recent vids added to TikTok. <br></div><div><br></div><div>With any luck, it will create some interest in the stories and a couple will be bought and read... </div><div>Meanwhile, more ideas, creativity and ingenuity are required</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDnK5ss5ZuSYB6esK11aPMigxAE_8pcKP7aY3rr_DLwOJfZdeO77Q696LIEYpePa0lICkJVcu3ibk6slAaPpAlHkIHZrvKW8xU94dqgQHW-nqPUsAiwgoV4yxiZuq1yyHpAaEyYL_Acp8/s1600/1677109741088916-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNDnK5ss5ZuSYB6esK11aPMigxAE_8pcKP7aY3rr_DLwOJfZdeO77Q696LIEYpePa0lICkJVcu3ibk6slAaPpAlHkIHZrvKW8xU94dqgQHW-nqPUsAiwgoV4yxiZuq1yyHpAaEyYL_Acp8/s1600/1677109741088916-1.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-77939626134800671092023-02-22T03:11:00.001-08:002023-02-22T03:11:55.219-08:00Phobic Wars.. reasonsI may have mentioned why I wrote 'Phobic Wars'? <div>Well the basis of this is my disgust and utter contempt for Cockroaches. </div><div>Coming from a hot country, we would see them in many areas.. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRK_wprbu5HIbfgCIexiqjRlSBe6N0egCWd65FggAB2iRnlLoYQk-_89EKUSMEopM4w3TfNUaPBGfTvXXsghUcqYhWqbWH9TePSJtFl8ARktNX2AD-L3cvmmhDL2y9G8h5WP4ZUUpkqGxx/s1600/1677064312194797-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRK_wprbu5HIbfgCIexiqjRlSBe6N0egCWd65FggAB2iRnlLoYQk-_89EKUSMEopM4w3TfNUaPBGfTvXXsghUcqYhWqbWH9TePSJtFl8ARktNX2AD-L3cvmmhDL2y9G8h5WP4ZUUpkqGxx/s1600/1677064312194797-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div></div><div>Despite the role of the man being the protector as the stronger partner, Julie, my wife, tends to take care of any Cockroaches we come across on holiday!</div><div>I will have run, or hobbled off, leaving her stranded!!</div><div><br></div><div>However, in order not to give them a totally negative impression, the Cockroaches are not so vilified.</div><div><br></div><div>Click the link and download a copy of Phobic Wars and once you've read it, please let me know your thoughts on it?</div><div><br></div><div>Happy Cockroach Hunting </div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-51028096817998241002023-02-07T13:52:00.000-08:002023-02-07T13:52:20.799-08:00Dentistry gone rogue <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7fQgjHC8No99WOY_cXWX_2sfRzLqsJ3PqJxDsqa2K4K4qIQWe9M1R7UOzVBYFp68p1mJSdZttIzD6d2UaYgkP78q5hHARs6yOZP3uDIaVezXkOa32IsWq0aFcMZKJROXqxqmcwkk6jeN/s1600/1675806722979974-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD7fQgjHC8No99WOY_cXWX_2sfRzLqsJ3PqJxDsqa2K4K4qIQWe9M1R7UOzVBYFp68p1mJSdZttIzD6d2UaYgkP78q5hHARs6yOZP3uDIaVezXkOa32IsWq0aFcMZKJROXqxqmcwkk6jeN/s1600/1675806722979974-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div><a href="https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMYjAXnyp/">Mental Dental</a> is now available in English, Spanish and Ukrainian...<div><br></div><div>The story of murder and deceit originated from somewhere you'd never expect... But are the facts wcorrext?? </div><div>Read it and investigate the facts with Jessie. </div><div><br><div>The first few Ukrainian copies have sold and I eagerly await some feedback / reviews on the book.</div><div>It's the same awsome story but available to more people around the world. </div><div>It's available on @amazon sites across the globe.</div><div><br></div></div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-16533192187239421422023-02-03T13:36:00.000-08:002023-02-03T13:39:21.882-08:00Психіатрична стоматологія: (вбивство за дорученням) https://amzn.eu/d/6bmm0ru<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkBK1ruWHYnAki5c20XMDnw8nA_suaaQQOocSyINovW3TU85fkaA0NMw1SsX3aw3uPLTSk5P76aEcQUzDTSf7tbMczzAZ1zLelvR7Yc9_nV7dtXIlAoPieQP-jhjvXkUorpypGyW4aRPG/s1600/1675459873107690-0.png" imageanchor="1">
</a>Mental Dental (Murder by Proxy) is now available in Ukrainian.. So please share and make others aware that this book exists in Paperback format. The link is as follows... #Ukrainian </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: start;"><br></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkBK1ruWHYnAki5c20XMDnw8nA_suaaQQOocSyINovW3TU85fkaA0NMw1SsX3aw3uPLTSk5P76aEcQUzDTSf7tbMczzAZ1zLelvR7Yc9_nV7dtXIlAoPieQP-jhjvXkUorpypGyW4aRPG/s1600/1675459873107690-0.png" width="400"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlkBK1ruWHYnAki5c20XMDnw8nA_suaaQQOocSyINovW3TU85fkaA0NMw1SsX3aw3uPLTSk5P76aEcQUzDTSf7tbMczzAZ1zLelvR7Yc9_nV7dtXIlAoPieQP-jhjvXkUorpypGyW4aRPG/s1600/1675459873107690-0.png" imageanchor="1">
</a>
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So snap it up... Enjoy </div>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-68816076161677572362023-02-03T03:00:00.001-08:002023-02-03T13:44:42.954-08:00Updates on books and all things relevant <p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfJ1z3LZSJkaraFznBB2pbmZxnoPmjBknHe7bMEGsa_bkaftb83uUzFUhtdsQ9oWKIWXf8DS6XjWoncY7GBnOX2xUDHhBHcPvu098lTHhW1iUteyk7oU0IUlkbws02PcxCiRDLJLp1dOM/s1600/1675460680142726-0.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTfJ1z3LZSJkaraFznBB2pbmZxnoPmjBknHe7bMEGsa_bkaftb83uUzFUhtdsQ9oWKIWXf8DS6XjWoncY7GBnOX2xUDHhBHcPvu098lTHhW1iUteyk7oU0IUlkbws02PcxCiRDLJLp1dOM/s1600/1675460680142726-0.png" width="400">
</a>
</div>including Phobic Wars</p><p>Okay, do it's been quite a while since I last updated this blog.</p><p>It gets confusing with so many social media sites to input on. I keep up with most but obviously not all... 🤣 </p><p>I've been updating the website and there are some of the more recent posts on it. Here's a link to the most recent post </p><p>https://rockape65.wixsite.com/rpg-books/post/independent-author-with-well-written-work-seeks-feedback</p><p>So, there has been a children's book published between my mate Pete Woolgar, a very talented illustrator and myself.' I Don't Like It<a href="I don't like it! https://amzn.eu/d/bcsezzA" target="_blank">I Don't Like It</a>' is based on one of my nephews.. Its gone down very well and I'd encourage any parents or grandparents who are struggling with their kids diets to read it with them. </p><p>I've also had another recent collaboration to have 'Mental Dental (MBP) ' translated into Spanish and Ukrainian. Here's the link, please share it so others can enjoy it <a href="Психіатрична стоматологія: (вбивство за дорученням) https://amzn.eu/d/0sPnLoq">Психіатрична стоматологія: (вбивство за дорученням) https://amzn.eu/d/0sPnLoq</a></p><p>They, as well as the original English language version, are available on Amazon. </p><p>There are also the rest of my books there to read. However may I ask a favour? If you do read them, any of them, please leave some feedback. </p><p>Thanks in advance and let's keep in touch. </p><p>Best wishes </p><p>Ram </p><p>Anyway, I will try and keep you all abreast on all things.. </p>Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-3562179518232775272019-09-18T07:05:00.001-07:002019-09-18T07:07:49.500-07:00Paradise <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTn75y4Keeyjuc8rf55ovfq4G8NEaimv3gnU7QAkWIdMklxfioo4Wpg1JB24omLN6J5k203ASzTIYF_DUVzr16O2hlX8PEc7nwH6s4FxrK1yqANruoeOtGPEMJv6d_Mw3ULY0ZlTuuFs2E/s1600/20190908_191403.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTn75y4Keeyjuc8rf55ovfq4G8NEaimv3gnU7QAkWIdMklxfioo4Wpg1JB24omLN6J5k203ASzTIYF_DUVzr16O2hlX8PEc7nwH6s4FxrK1yqANruoeOtGPEMJv6d_Mw3ULY0ZlTuuFs2E/s320/20190908_191403.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Please accept my apologies for not keeping up with the blog... Life has been really very busy, even for a retired old fellow like me.<br />
I will be updating all with more frequency after the next two weeks are done.<br />
For now, I leave you with a couple of amazing pics taken in a little corner of paradise in the Essex coast.Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-22944416822392883202019-05-08T16:08:00.000-07:002019-05-08T16:08:35.464-07:00Plodding alongPlodding along is where I feel I am now.<br />
Plodding, according to the dictionary, means:<br />
<div class="lr_dct_ent vmod XpoqFe" data-hveid="CAoQBg" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0); font-family: Roboto, HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 20px; max-height: 999999px; overflow-wrap: break-word; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 20px;">
<div class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">
<div class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">
<div class="lr_dct_sf_h" style="max-height: 999999px; padding-top: 10px;">
<i style="max-height: 999999px;">adjective</i></div>
<ol class="lr_dct_sf_sens" style="margin: 0px; max-height: 999999px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 20px;">
<li style="list-style: none; margin: 0px; max-height: 999999px; padding: 0px;"><div class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">
<div class="lr_dct_sf_sen Uekwlc XpoqFe" style="font-size: 14px !important; line-height: 20px; max-height: 999999px; padding-top: 8px;">
<div style="margin-left: 20px; max-height: 999999px;">
<div class="PNlCoe XpoqFe" style="font-size: small; line-height: 20px; margin-left: -20px; max-height: 999999px;">
<div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline; max-height: 999999px;">
slow-moving and unexciting.</div>
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;"></span><br />
<div class="vk_gy" style="color: rgb(135, 135, 135) !important; max-height: 999999px;">
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">"a plodding comedy drama"</span></div>
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">
</span></div>
<div style="margin-left: -32px; max-height: 999999px;">
<ul style="margin: 0px; max-height: 999999px; padding: 0px;">
<li class="vmod" style="list-style: none; margin: 0px; max-height: 999999px; padding: 0px;"><div class="lr_dct_sf_subsen" style="display: list-item; list-style-type: disc; margin-left: 25px; max-height: 999999px; padding-top: 5px;">
<div class="PNlCoe XpoqFe" style="font-size: small; line-height: 20px; max-height: 999999px;">
<div data-dobid="dfn" style="display: inline; max-height: 999999px;">
(of a person) thorough and hard-working but lacking in imagination or intelligence.</div>
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;"></span><br />
<div class="vk_gy" style="color: rgb(135, 135, 135) !important; max-height: 999999px;">
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">"plodding, methodical Ralph Bellamy"</span></div>
<span class="vmod" style="max-height: 999999px;">
</span></div>
</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="jFHKNd vmod" data-async-context="async_id:duf3-4;authority:0;card_id:;entry_point:0;feature_id:;ftoe:0;header:0;open:0;suggestions:;suggestions_subtypes:;suggestions_types:;surface:0;title:;type:4" style="font-size: 11px; max-height: 999999px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-top: 7px; white-space: nowrap;">
<div class="y yp" data-async-context-required="type,open,feature_id,async_id,entry_point,authority,card_id,ftoe,title,header,suggestions,surface,suggestions_types,suggestions_subtypes" data-async-type="duffy3" data-jiis="up" data-ved="2ahUKEwjm9KHi-O_gAhVhsXEKHYHSCaYQ-0EwAHoECAoQJg" id="duf3-4" style="background-color: white; color: #3c4043; font-family: Roboto, HelveticaNeue, Arial, sans-serif; max-height: 999999px;">
</div>
</div>
So why am I in this category?<br />
At times I certainly feel thorough, hard-working and lacking in imagination or intelligence, therefore yes?<br />
Especially so when the back pain from fractures in my spine are stopping me from simply straightening up, not even standing up, never mind walking...<br />
There is also the despair and changing mood but I maintain a positive attitude and soldier on.<br />
I am able to do more, not everything but I am less impaired though still quite disabled by it all.<br />
Plodding is a feeling I get that is probably due to the plateau I've reached, certainly a peak of improvement has been attained through thorough and hard-work that has now reached the period of little or no change in my physical, emotional and cognitive difficulties.<br />
Compared to a year ago, where I was in a coma and my life was at risk, there's a massive and impressive improvement. If I compare myself against what I consider normality, I would say I am 60% of the way there.<br />
Am I being ungreatful?<br />
I don't think so. I love life and I am propelled to getting better by the love and support from family and friends. I am so thankful to have them all. They've fought for me, with me and pushed me all this way but I am still wanting more. Not from them but certain from me.<br />
<br />
I used to wear a suit and tie, nicely polished shoes and dressed for success. Now I wear comfortable, supportive lace-less, slip on shoes, jeans and t-shirt, jumpers etc. They are still clean and smart but it's a way from where I 'power dressed'. Then again, I am retired so no real need to wear a suit to walk Rosie to the park or plod along at home.<br />
I am unable to wear lace ups because I struggle to get to my feet... I can't reach them. They are an appendage too far!<br />
Hence one of my 'sillier goals' is to be able to wear one of my lovely suits, lace up shoes, tie and shirt.. Take Julie out for a posh, romantic meal.<br />
Months ago, our son Sean asked me what I wanted to achieve in losing some of the weight I'd gained from the sedentary life I had now acquired.<br />
Same goal but with March 23rd as a goal date because it would be our 35th wedding anniversary. Reality is we can at least get a nice meal in a restaurant but I may not look as dashing as I aimed to be... Although I would be there and this was a tremendous success and personal journey of hard graft but still only a little way over half the way there.<br />
<br />
Many years ago, I was on a conference when I worked for Astra Pharmaceuticals that later became AstraZenecca. We were in the Algarve, Portugal.<br />
One of the speakers was Frank Dick, the former director of coaching for UK athletics. He was a powerful and inspirational speaker. Among the many things he said, he spoke about 'Valley people' and 'Mountain People'.<br />
Valley people, are happy with their lot and never seek to improve on what they have. Mountain people are the polar opposite, they achieve one goal, climbing that mountain, they are not happy with this and push themselves to climb the next mountain and so on. Now their is nothing wrong with either, though as a Mountain person, I cannot be satisfied with my lot though circumstances push me to, I need to carry on climbingRamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-25628912131843355792019-05-08T05:05:00.000-07:002019-05-08T05:05:16.537-07:00Jasmine Sweet young Jasmine. Retired racer through injury, she was sidelined and not much of a prospect. Now, we have her and love her to bits...<br />
Full of life, mischief and love. She is enjoying life, being in her 'forever home', getting fussed over, very much spoilt.<br />
She is quite different to our RosieG, she barks, especially at the telly if there are dog noises... She plays with toys and loves her ball. She also eats very well. We are so pleased she's eating well. She was so scrawny and in poor condition when we first homed her.<br />
Unlike Rosie, she's not a fan of dentistix, she does like pigs ears though (yuck!)...<br />
Same breed but such different, individual characters.<br />
Jasmine is such a tale wagger, it's more like a 360° rotation at 100 mph... So cute but so dangerous.. She has a little of her tail missing, right at the tip! I am sure it must have been a traumatic amputation: we had the bloodbath the other night. It was like a scene from a thriller where the killer has knifed someone to death and there has been a struggle!! A 'massacre' at home... It wasn't but it could have been. There was blood everywhere.<br />
The splatter was a fine bloody spray in our bedroom, the hall, stairs and landing, dinning room and upstairs bathroom. Who knows what she had hit but it was very evident.<br />
To complicate things a bit more, we had a house viewing the next day (we are selling our place) so we had to plan something.... Julie had to work so she thought it best to clean when she was back home.<br />
I thought I'd save us time by cleaning the blood where I could get to it : mirrors, furnishings, doors, walls...and dab the marks off.<br />
Big mistake!<br />
The dabbing on the walls was 'inefficient' so rubbing was required and it worked, on the white walls. The walls in the hall, stairs and landing are blue and the rubbing caused more of a problem, the paint rubbed off... Revealing the undercoat so desperate measures were needed, I'll use the spare paint left over from painting that area a couple of years ago, no problem.<br />
I looked for a tester pot in the shed and found it, dabbed all over the areas affected and hey presto, done!<br />
Wrong.....the walls were now like a blue leopard print!<br />
I thought the paint was the right shade but was just taking a little longer to dry when in fact it was around 5 tones darker!<br />
Panic ensued, I had a couple of hours to fix this, I am not driving so I hobbled with my walking stick, down to the DIY store, found the tester pots and then, more anxiety: 'which one is the correct shade? what if its not? I can't afford to waste any more time or energy running back and forth so I bought 4 shades of blue.<br />
Problem solved? I wasn't going to get away with it as easily as that!<br />
They were all a tad darker or lighter but not the same, the leopard print was now more interesting as the lighter shades differentiated the darker spots to make it, well, damned obvious something was wrong!!<br />
Panic<br />
I was broken at this point and Julie cane home.<br />
You can imagine what she said and how she felt, well not as bad as I did.<br />
We went of hunting for different shades of blue. A hue that was now no longer available!<br />
Thankfully, Keiron and Aga came round. They said not to panic, took a couple of photos of the walls with the camera on the phone, went down to Homebase and half an hour later, a perfect match, good enough for the house viewing.<br />
<br />
So what happened to the culprit, Jasmine, not me...?<br />
Well she had foam pipe lagging and a dressing applied to her tail which was successful in protecting and healing her tail.<br />
We now try not to get her too excited or at least, steer her from any obstructions when she is in full helicopter mode!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-6dN8QY5rwRaMHpR7hC7DnaQVHAScJ-WA-AMKLozBGkYUvEpiEvtWQjQUlOt-zp_b8u7X4IImOzKRXcNItJjDZAjfnayvmv1h6q-lNyvzC9EhkqFgGYdpeUTPRkH63U1C65sQlCtA_gF/s1600/20190505_173603.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO-6dN8QY5rwRaMHpR7hC7DnaQVHAScJ-WA-AMKLozBGkYUvEpiEvtWQjQUlOt-zp_b8u7X4IImOzKRXcNItJjDZAjfnayvmv1h6q-lNyvzC9EhkqFgGYdpeUTPRkH63U1C65sQlCtA_gF/s320/20190505_173603.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-69425624978071761572019-03-28T17:29:00.000-07:002019-04-07T18:15:48.330-07:00Goodbye RosieG <p dir="ltr">We rescued Rosie six years ago. She was an <u>ex-</u>racer and now needed a forever home, to be loved, spoilt, pampered and cared for. We gave her this home and an extended family that welcomed her and loved her as much as we did. <br>
She was a character and her warm loving nature meant she was a joy to see, interacting with our grandchildren. <br>
We had so many adventures to have but alas this was not to be. </p>
<p dir="ltr">On Monday, she sustained a fracture to her leg that was spontaneous... Not a good sign and our worst fears were realised when the vet confirmed it was osteosarcoma 😔</p>
<p dir="ltr">She was a star and deserved a long and happy retirement but it was cruely cut short yesterday. She had fought her last fight and passed away peacefully being held by my wife Julie and my mother in law Claire. I could not face saying goodbye... I have my memories and the pain of seeing her take her last breath was too much for me. </p>
<p dir="ltr">It was ironic because Julie and Claire had brought her home originally... And now they had set her free 😭</p>
<p dir="ltr">As much as we loved her, we could not see her suffer.<br>
She needed a release and she is now chasing and playing in heaven...</p>
<p dir="ltr">Goodbye my sweet Rosie... We will always love you and we are enriched by your grace, beauty and unconditional love. ♥️💕</p>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-72465407090940837832019-03-17T14:46:00.000-07:002019-03-17T14:48:18.599-07:00Children's illustrated bookI am happy to day that illustrator Pete Woolgar and I are venturing into a collaboration and new ground with a children's book...<br />
I am not going to give away everything but for a little more info... Click <a href="https://www.facebook.com/616346631754746/posts/2236045203118206/" target="_blank">Here</a><br />
Keep your eyes peeled...Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-38838350508641669412019-03-01T05:45:00.000-08:002019-03-01T05:45:10.510-08:00Retired escape So I have been retired for a month and yet no pension, thank you NHS Pensions... pension payments are delayed because I had not been given the correct information before retiring and asked to contact NHS pensions on the date of retirement. So in fairness, not all their fault but it is still no picnic...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA52gxK9HUlnO7AVJW1KOJ6OOqDyRYUH2gUTiLGA3aSh4NkOSdMFe1nPlYlU0FxHW1CasprVAO5RIDvAXpcqH-EQw-9yumcNSY8p0kKwqTGlXrLy1vdUETK0l1ehDu0wklL6ZjEdarRjMe/s1600/20190218_003450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA52gxK9HUlnO7AVJW1KOJ6OOqDyRYUH2gUTiLGA3aSh4NkOSdMFe1nPlYlU0FxHW1CasprVAO5RIDvAXpcqH-EQw-9yumcNSY8p0kKwqTGlXrLy1vdUETK0l1ehDu0wklL6ZjEdarRjMe/s320/20190218_003450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Everyone says, make the best of being retired, 'you have done enough for everyone' etc<br />
Well I wasn't ready for this people, I cannot get used to it.<br />
Retirement is an escape from the trials and tribulations of work.<br />
The continuing stressor and noxious stimuli are lessened and now one can focus on improving quality of life and in my case, getting better. However the hidden stress remains.<br />
I am now focused on bettering myself where possible and devoting some quality of life to me.<br />
This includes improving diet and exercise.<br />
We have joined the local sports centre and are going swimming a couple of times a week. By swimming I mean very little energetic swimming and light floating and paddle. My spinal fractures do not allow too much of the old racing style I had always adopted. No more 'bombing it' down the pool and it's more chilled...<br />
<br />
I have to move more, after all I was very active in my work and now, with the added residual effects of Encephalitis and the fractures in my spine, pain and poor mobility, I have put on a fair amount of weight.<br />
Since Encephalitis struck, I have put on a frightening amount of weight on, four stone in 2 days short of a year.<br />
You could say its because of my overactive.... Knife and fork. LOL<br />
The blame could also go on the ready access to the cornucopia of food in our kitchen cupboards and my love for chocolate.<br />
Being at home is too easy to access 'goodies' and although we have a large house, let's face it, it's not a million miles to and from the kitchen.<br />
<br />
The ability to fill my day with physical challenges in order to rehabilitate me are limited due to the catalogue of ailments I have acquired over the last year. I need to strengthen myself up and undertake quite a bit of exercise per day, probably more than when I was working but work also meant quite a physical amount of effort and I maintained my weight.<br />
The exercise regime is less strenuous on my calorific burning and therefore the balance is in the red. I had lost a lot of muscle mass during my ITU admission so had to eat more but now, I have topped the scales and got to the heaviest I have ever been.<br />
As if I didn't have enough to contend with, I now have type 2 diabetes.<br />
<br />
However, it's not all doom and gloom, having been told this, I have lost half a stone in a week... That is good going and its heading in the right direction<br />
Maybe I can get to the weight I was at in the shoot for this cover?<br />
I hope so<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDWFizhmrg0feYW2IUpq8n7UJR-GfcbRdS9xZVeuoAN4rAF8dXRLYPGTt3pcm0dhF6bQ349EbWaQyMKz9DHKr06nbLTSFW3s5zfAG7LH7do1SJWh7IOaeC8tBlIGDMsLS2nRuYte5tR9Q/s1600/Screenshot_20190109-005535_Chrome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="967" data-original-width="716" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmDWFizhmrg0feYW2IUpq8n7UJR-GfcbRdS9xZVeuoAN4rAF8dXRLYPGTt3pcm0dhF6bQ349EbWaQyMKz9DHKr06nbLTSFW3s5zfAG7LH7do1SJWh7IOaeC8tBlIGDMsLS2nRuYte5tR9Q/s320/Screenshot_20190109-005535_Chrome.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
<br />Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-3007872771253143022019-02-25T15:05:00.000-08:002019-02-25T15:05:22.778-08:00Beauty and artHere is my latest piece of art I have produce ...<br />
The subject, my youngest granddaughter in her little bear dressingown<br />
It is a monochrome piece, watercolour - blue and white only<br />
A great subject and a beautiful model... I enjoyed painting this one 😍<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84BsAlbQBhATE5Ec_yxjtNGab2RJme0fguK7ie_BC4EPk6UwvOnussiFzRrCoh3777EJRqzVw6OYBLZ8M7PyohymB63bdRu4iEb2B9ANlgXsEbjEQ_EBaechHml5N6afel9oil8McU7HR/s1600/20190222_170418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1116" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg84BsAlbQBhATE5Ec_yxjtNGab2RJme0fguK7ie_BC4EPk6UwvOnussiFzRrCoh3777EJRqzVw6OYBLZ8M7PyohymB63bdRu4iEb2B9ANlgXsEbjEQ_EBaechHml5N6afel9oil8McU7HR/s320/20190222_170418.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-82630492394185505062019-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:002019-02-25T14:40:48.069-08:00Roses, lollipops and smilesThe weather has been beautiful here in the UK, yet despite spring and its natural light, it's been a difficult day.<br />
No real reason, just hard to cope with and sorrowful.<br />
I guess acceptance of my limitations is still a little way away.<br />
<br />
Today has been a day of heartbreaking blackness, despite the light.<br />
It's a stormy cloud that consumes me and is not made easier by external noxious stimuli... If I could reach a high pitch... I would scream but I can't, so I won't and I don't. But inside, I am screaming an ear piercing scream, a scream of dare I say it, depression?<br />
<br />
Hard to admit sometimes that I am at a low level... A reactive downer due to all that has happened in the last year. How my life is so, so different to what it was a short 12 months ago.<br />
<br />
The physical pain, ailments and poor mobility, the despair, the plethora of medication, all the appointments (I want to cancel them all... It's a circus!!).<br />
<br />
Why do I need to tell my story to so many people? Can't they read my notes, don't they write and talk to each other? I get so angry.... 😡<br />
<br />
Not a good day, sorry... But it has to be said, it's not all roses, lollipops and smiles 😞Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-22562329847720624802019-02-24T14:28:00.000-08:002019-03-28T17:11:29.926-07:00Dreams <div align="left"><p dir="ltr"><b><span style="font-size:1.30em;"><b>I wish I pursued my dreams and aspirations, and not the life others expected of me</b></span></b></p>
</div><p dir="ltr">I have been to many funerals over the many years of work... I believed this to be both, part of my work in giving my last respects to my patients and also supporting their families. </p><p dir="ltr">In a few services, Frank Sinatras's "My Way" is played... In it, there is a segment that goes.... </p><p dir="ltr">'Regrets, I've had a few</p><p dir="ltr">But then again, too few to mention</p><p dir="ltr">I did what I had to do</p><p dir="ltr">And saw it through without exemption' </p><p dir="ltr">So, do you they have any regrets? </p><p dir="ltr"><span style="font-family: sans-serif;">I have just been reading an interesting piece of research carried out in Australia & a</span>ccording to the research, Most people do.</p><p dir="ltr">It appears our regrets gain a lot of weight as we approach the end of our lives. </p><p dir="ltr">The researcher, Bronnie Wear, carried out her study on patients in a hospice. </p><p dir="ltr">'Knowing you are going to die in a few weeks' is a very difficult emotion to contend with. Bronnie noticed as her patients experienced a range of emotions that usually started with denial, and then fear, anger, remorse, more denial, and eventually, acceptance.</p><p dir="ltr">They discussed regrets and <span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">5 regrets stood out.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">I think this is a powerful piece that will enable us to reflect and I wish I didn't work so hard features strongly with all the male patients and some of the females.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Work can take over people's lives and we must learn to afford the luxury of spending more time with friends and especial our loved ones.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">If I asked you to m</span><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">ake a list of family functions and important milestones you have missed, there would be a fair few?</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px;">Most respondants said they would </span><em style="box-sizing: border-box; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">simplify their lifestyle and make better choices, they may not have needed all that money they were chasing.</em></p>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-15541602770243150782019-02-22T15:08:00.001-08:002019-02-22T15:25:35.337-08:00Brain on Fire - World Encephalitis Day <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmNGKlhA0fpzaVqx-E5kof1k-u6ILfMl7G8SDF6kDnNCF-xww7_7iF3vkAJwkFGe-iltsWXRv5PH5-vh6nGUSbHL7oyJ5G2h4gPhfUo_8n5mOssR7q29lNCK563a047e-dheJlNXBmVIiJ/s1600/20180605_143155.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmNGKlhA0fpzaVqx-E5kof1k-u6ILfMl7G8SDF6kDnNCF-xww7_7iF3vkAJwkFGe-iltsWXRv5PH5-vh6nGUSbHL7oyJ5G2h4gPhfUo_8n5mOssR7q29lNCK563a047e-dheJlNXBmVIiJ/s320/20180605_143155.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div dir="ltr">
It's world Encephalitis Day and I have just watched the movie 'Brain on Fire' . <br />
It's on Netflix and it certainly pulls on the heartstrings. <br />
Although we all have our own distinct story, there are many commonalities. <br />
A year ago, if I knew what awaited me, I'd have recommended and maybe advised this should be watched by medics and all healthcare professionals to consider AiEncephalitis a posible diagnosis and arrive at more focused investigations and treatment pathways.<br />
Who knows, I may have been better, quicker?</div>
<div dir="ltr">
Watch it though... </div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
<div dir="ltr">
<br /></div>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-9423491356187535352019-02-21T01:39:00.001-08:002019-02-21T01:46:40.085-08:00Jessie Square Eyes<div dir="ltr">
If you are into film and TV, look no further. The following will take you to my cousins <a href="https://jessiesquareeyes.wordpress.com/">Blog</a> <br />
It's very slick and funny, informative and punchy so please have a look. <br />
</div>
<div dir="ltr">
Jess started this blog as part of her Masters Degree so support and comments would be great. </div>
<div dir="ltr">
It also happens to be Jessie's birthday today too so... Happy birthday cous xxx</div>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-90167003587241331562019-02-20T09:52:00.001-08:002019-02-20T09:52:46.260-08:00Family visits <p dir="ltr">My cousin Jessie and her youngest daughter, Jenna, came to visit today. It was great to catch up over a few hours of chat, laughs and memories.</p>
<p dir="ltr">It's Jessie's birthday tomorrow and I cannot believe it's been 'that many years' since I held her in my arms as a young lad myself... She was only a couple of days old and just been sent home from the maternity unit in Gibraltar.</p>
<p dir="ltr">All these decades later, we remain tight and closer than ever in our exile in the East of England... Self exile BTW.</p>
<p dir="ltr">She is the mother to two wonderful young ladies, Anya and Jenna. <br>
It's hard to accept the 'little ones' are in their teens now. They were my 'testing crowd' for my material. Little jokes, stories and magic tricks I'd put them through (sorry girls). <br>
Julie and I honed our grandparenting skills on them. Although not officially our grandkids, we treated them like they were. Taking them to places, testing our pram skills and enjoying every minute with them. </p>
<p dir="ltr">They are too old to stay at our house now, like they used to.. It's not hip. We used to lie in bed and make up stories, adding bits to the story line as we went along until the story was no longer what it set out as... Like a story line chinese whispers. <br>
However, should they need to, they are always welcome. </p>
<p dir="ltr">They are great kids and have wonderful parents in Jessie and Tony and we are always there for each other... <br>
We may not have lots of money, fast cars, flash jewellery etc but we have pride, love and family... <u>Xxx</u></p>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-83942588309344667452019-02-20T05:00:00.001-08:002019-02-20T05:01:43.278-08:00Roots- Neanderthal ManThe book I orders has arrived on its release date. Excellent...<br />
<br />
I look forward to to reading up on the findings of Clive, Geraldine and Stuart Finlayson.<br />
I have known them all my life and Geraldines family live in the same block of flats as my family. In fact, her brother, John, was a school mate of mine so supporting the local authors, history and roots is important. The passion to learn about our forefathers is also extremely useful.<br />
<br />
Having been born in Gibraltar, the Neanderthal story is something I have always had an interest in. Curiosity over who we are, why we are who we are and how we got here are questions we all ask... However, originating from a place where the first Neanderthal remains were found, and nothing done, it increased my interest.<br />
Had action taken place when the bones were found, Neanderthals would be called Gibraltar man.<br />
In many ways, I'm thankful the name was not adopted, otherwise it may have incurred a ribbing from those less fortunate 😜<br />
<br />
This statement in itself is a corruption because this book explains how Neanderthals were thinking cave dwellers, they hunted and catalogued their lives in paintings and certainly learnt from nature. Not just 'cavemen' .<br />
<br />
I look forward to reading and learning more.<br />
I've tweeted Clive to make sure my copy gets autographed next time I'm in Gib.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1BkSThXk8TT6_aNyUItvl2ZDD25TpoH119t2sj39DwzgFTYYWy2bgqZyiFCtJqNl_1AiE1doyjRb-Ryic-cViN0o-Vv8Vh_CfdUIDsq-YStAindI99AdoMINTmXqXciT_15eBGSExHm4/s1600/20190220_113453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1BkSThXk8TT6_aNyUItvl2ZDD25TpoH119t2sj39DwzgFTYYWy2bgqZyiFCtJqNl_1AiE1doyjRb-Ryic-cViN0o-Vv8Vh_CfdUIDsq-YStAindI99AdoMINTmXqXciT_15eBGSExHm4/s320/20190220_113453.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Ramhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3245393653785427227.post-50421441080463434862019-02-16T16:09:00.000-08:002019-02-16T16:09:02.918-08:00KFC What,???? I am not a frequented of this choice restaurant if like to consider my palette is a little more refined so why in heavens name can't I ever get a takeaway from there that provides me with what I ordered and more importantly, paid for?<br />
We had two of our grandkids with us today and after running ourselves ragged, we opted for this cuisine because it would be appealing and quick... Also, less effort!<br />
Wrong!<br />
We ordered a boneless banquet with a bunch of sauces provided and it contained chips etc, we also thought that getting coleslaw and corn on the cob would add a little acceptance <br />
So when we got home, we had: something nearly like what we ordered... Except no tray of sauces and no coleslaw.. What we had was a bowl of 'brown'... Well, we can't call it gravy or anything else.<br />
If I was elsewhere, I'd have thought they had given us some mud from a swamp.. But we have no swamps here. So is this coleslaw???<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIs6yhn8BpWP-892i_ZFRCuBqt06yjYTNig0J5kKPQojXtgb5KF3ya9CUUxtwXid_JVMi_3PTR2PvhexoZY8KfGATHu7FTM_4v22-D3o3DtTkzcyW_ph9UErRHJNyCB7ZL4sn9ThbfKcA/s1600/20190216_182955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIs6yhn8BpWP-892i_ZFRCuBqt06yjYTNig0J5kKPQojXtgb5KF3ya9CUUxtwXid_JVMi_3PTR2PvhexoZY8KfGATHu7FTM_4v22-D3o3DtTkzcyW_ph9UErRHJNyCB7ZL4sn9ThbfKcA/s320/20190216_182955.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
So, considering there aren't that many items on the menu, why and how can they get it so wrong, so often?<br />
Anyhow, I called the manager and let rip a little...<br />
Why?<br />
Well because they have never got a sodding order right from the KFC in Edinburgh Road, Harlow.<br />
He was kind to offer a full replacement of our order if I took the takeoutvwe had down to them and asked for him..<br />
Great stra but I am not driving at the moment due to the seizures in my acute phase.. And I would certainly not be able to cycle there and back, added to which, it was cold and the kids were hungry.<br />
I complained and registered my dissatisfaction and now, making it more of a recorded issueRamhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00935448256908245621noreply@blogger.com0