Yarn & yarns

Chapter 2 of Linda Acaster and Penny Grubb

2012-01-07T19:03:00.000Z

Penny Grubb and Linda Acaster

2012-01-06T15:57:00.001Z

As a bit of a bibliophile, some of my favourite interviews are with authors, naturally. Over the last few years I have had the privilege of meeting several local authors and chatting with them. Oh the unadulterated joy of spending time with these creators of the printed word. How I wish I had the talent not to mention single mindedness to join their elite throng. So I content myself with spending time in their company, and along the way getting some amazing interviews - which makes Justin happy as well. Many many thanks to Penny and Linda for such a lovely afternoon yesterday. For once the editing is not and chore, but pure pleasure as I once again immerse myself in their company. Two lovely and brilliant ladies.

Happy New Year

2012-01-01T10:43:00.000Z

2012 has arrived, and I am hoping it is going to be a good year. Though it will probably be more like the curates egg as usual. I love the New Year, it's always a sign of promise. A new page in the book of life to fill.

One of the bad bits of last year was losing a very dear friend. Someone who has been here for me since I arrived up here. Someone who I shared so many interests with, not least knitting. I still miss our time together, and know there will never be another Cilla, but I am so proud and happy to have known you.

Cilla left a lot of knitted squares to make a double blanket with. The yarn is 100% aran wool. I know because I supplied it for her when I had to wool shop. All the pieces are beautifully knitted and I have sorted them into piles.

24 cable

23 blackberry

20 diamond

16 Eiffel tower

16 leaf

the edging

sorted into piles

Cilla also left a chart of where each square was to go. This would have been the 3rd she knitted for family members weddings. Unfortunately she became ill before she had time to sew them all together. This is a mammoth undertaking, but I am feeling privileged to have the honour of finishing this off for my friend. I have put together the top 9 squares and admit I shed a few tears remembering Cilla and our time together. There will probably be more along the way until this is finished and handed back to her family. But soon I hope they will have another heirloom from a lovely lady to remember her by. I know I will never forget her.

Knitting Magazines

2011-12-09T11:51:00.006Z

Anyone who knows me knows I am a sucker for knitting magazines - in fact one day they may take over the house. This does not stop me from checking out the racks in every paper shop I visit. This week I was lucky enough to discover a shop of purely magazines in Grimsby. Well what was I to do? I really had to go and investigate. What a treasure trove. A whole section of handicraft took my eye. Now came the tricky part trying to remember the ones I already have in my collection.

One of the first ones to catch my eye was Issue 2 of Knit now. Not something I have come across in Withernsea, so the first one added to my collection. The free gift was a booklet of chunky knits and 3 cable needles. Not that I brought it if the gifts - in some ways I would prefer they lowered the price, as I am sure any knitter already has a full compliment of accessories. I certainly do. The latest Machine Knitting Monthly was soon added. Not that this one has free gifts enticing you to buy, this is rather that I need to get back into using my poor negleted machine and was looking for inspiration. Finally was Simply Knitting, a magazine I started collecting from Issue 2 and now how so many I know I will never get round to knitting everything I love in them. Once again it came with free gifts, a pair of 7mm needles and extra pattern booklet. I usually collect all these free gifts and put them on ebay. That way at least someone can get some use out of them.

So now I have plenty of inspiration, but not a lot of time. However I am going to make a new years resolution to make more time for my craft work, as the only things I have actually finished lately are a couple of small cross stitch projects.

The owl bookmark is a for a friend for Christmas, and the card just because I like it!

Catch up time

2011-12-05T09:53:00.001Z

OK I know I have been neglecting this poor blog, but I must get back into it before my sister has the emergancy services coming round to check I am all right.:)

A couple of weeks ago, a 5 year old terror machine managed to tear some tendons on my finger, which has meant a splint is stopping the important pasttime of knitting. Though I have rediscovered the joys of cross stitch. Only small things like a christmas card and a bookmark, but at least something has been produced.

So what on earth have I been doing with my time besides entertaining the "grandson" ?. Well the video interviewing is still taking up a lot of time, the last video being the Withernsea Light Switch on, on Friday night. Once again it was freezing, unlike last year it was not actually snowing. One very delightful thing was that it felt like far more people were out supporting the event than in previous years.

Every second Tuesday is Bernie Wood night at the Black Horse Roos. I have always loved country music and this man is a legend in my eyes. He also has friends playing there, and last time we enjoyed the amazing Paul Costello, Eric Beharrell, Bob Parks and Kevin (who's surname I have forgotton)

Now it is nearly that time of year again. Why does Christmas always take us by surprise? But I have been a little more organised this year and have posted some cards to America and Germany. Now just have to sort out the UK ones.

exciting weekend

2011-09-12T09:09:00.003Z

A recent trip south for my sisters 60th birthday proved to be an amazing experience. Despite worrying about the trains and timings, everything went smoothly and I had a wonderful few days with family. Now looking forward to going back again:)))

don't worry Lyn it won't be just yet x

I have just had an amazing weekend. Thought I would now be taking a break from my reporting duties for Seaside Radio. How wrong can you be? Was sent an email about Paull Holme Tower. Somewhere that I had never heard of, but certainly worthy of a look -http://www.ecastles.co.uk/paulltower.html

the owner, Simon Taylor, was on hand to show us around, and then kindly agreed to an interview. A man that is passionate about his "pile of stones" sorry Simon, beautiful building:) http://www.youtube.com/user/CSIDE1053#p/u/1/FjnQXObeDIU

Followed by a visit to neighbouring St Andrews church where I met local historian David Alexander Smith who has written a book about Paull. http://www.youtube.com/user/CSIDE1053#p/u/0/hqEN97y3XVA and also gave me an interview.

As if that was not enough excitement, yesterday proved to be even more thrilling for me, when I got to drive a tractor. Wow, what an experience. Video to follow later.

We finished the day at St Nicholas Church Keyingham where we attended a lovely Songs of Praise service and I met a wonderful lady of 101 years. Violet has been a regular worshipper at St Nicholas for over 80 years and she regailed me with stories of past vicars:)

holiday, scarecrows and Spurn Lighthouse

2011-08-03T09:16:00.004Z

Steam train ride Pickering to Grosmont

Scarecrow festival at Muston

Having recently interviewed some morris dancers, this amused me

It really is time to update this blog if only to let Lyn know I am still alive and kicking - not literally of course.

So now I have to remember what I have been doing for the last few weeks. Well I have been away on holiday and also been doing a lot of interviewing. I am now busy editing. So will keep this short.

Yesterday I was lucky enough to climb to the top of Spurn Lighthouse and did not one, but two interviews up there.

http://youtu.be/HuVn7x83wqM

Heights of Abraham

2011-07-08T09:47:00.006Z

http://www.heightsofabraham.com/ Is this the norths best kept secret? I have only recently heard of it despite having been up here for nearly 8 years.

Yes Lyn I really did go up in that cable car. Not too bad going up but coming down was a bit scary:) Also went down the cave. That was ok. Very dark, but it was the number of stairs that got to me. Though I would not have missed the experience for the world.

fathers day

2011-06-17T10:49:00.001Z

In memory of my Dad for this weekends Fathers Day. Love and miss you Dad xx

Orangutan and the Hound

2011-05-26T10:16:00.000Z

Orangutan and the Hound

Time to move on?

2011-05-26T07:27:00.002Z

There is a very inspiring TV program that I like watching each week. Secret Millionaire on Channel 4 has super rich people going to the most deprived areas of our country trying to find people and causes to help. This week Sue Stone went to Coventry and discovered a world she did not recognise.

This program touched me on several levels, from the time she said the words, "Let go of the past and live for the now". Things I have done that I have been unable to forgive myself for still hang round me like a shroud. No matter how hard I try, I still beat myself up daily with guilt and regrets.

All of this emotion takes its toll. Although I try to live my life the best way possible, to make amends for my past, life is still a struggle. I still don't feel I deserve the good things in my life. In fact I probably try to "put a spanner in the works" if things go too well. A trait that has followed me through life. When will I learn to forgive myself and "Live life for the now"?

When Sue arrived undercover in Coventry, she landed in a rented house that appalled her. My first rented property up here was very similar. So damp the paper was peeling off the walls. Plaster was laying where it fell. The dank stairway only had a light switch at the top of the stairs, which meant you crept up in the dark to go to bed. Or in my case on a mattress on the floor. An old gas cooker that was either on or off with no control meant meals were either cold or hot, but not cooked. I had no washing machine, and getting the bedding clean meant soaking it in the bath before hauling it outside to dry - if it was not raining. Add to this I was also living on benefits for the first time in my life. Though for me this seemed fair and proper. I deserved punishment.

Like Sue I went out and found some volunteer work. First at a local drop in where I helped prepare and serve cheap meals. This meant I also had 2 hot meals a week, but more importantly I made friends that I still have today. Life was hard but I enjoyed helping people that may have been having a worse time than I was.

Now my life is very different. I own my small comfortable home with bed, washing machine, tumble dryer and computer. Although not rich by any means, I still like to support my community and help others who may be having a rough time. I have a lovely circle of friends who care about me.

Yesterday I sent a birthday card and present to a granddaughter I have never seen. A gift she may never receive from someone she does not know exists. Does letting go of the past mean letting go of her and my 2 daughters who have wanted nothing to do with me for the last 7 years? If this is the price of true happiness, is the cost too high? Every one needs hope in their lives. Maybe they will never forgive me, but is is time to forgive myself?

Uncomfortable and thought provoking

2011-05-22T06:03:00.002Z

I read yesterday that the world was supposed to end last night. Well I am awake and here, so I guess the guy got that wrong. Though maybe my poor body is slightly sad at that, I think my mind is pleased that I am still here and waiting to see what new adventures are planned for me.

This week I renewed my acquaintance with the gym after a break of 3 months. Every morning I got up early and spent time on the treadmill, bike and rowing machine. Had to start slowly to build up again, but by Friday I felt good. Wish I still did. My head aches, nose is blocked and throat feels like it has been rubbed with sandpaper. My limbs feel like they belong to someone else - if they are yours, please come and claim them. How on earth can anyone get a cold when we have been having such glorious weather?

Another visit to Hull Truck this week proved interesting. Press tickets to shows mean I have seen more plays in last few months, than in rest of my life. Plays that I would not have thought of going and seeing in the normal run of things. But occasionally there is a real gem. Something that I would of not minded paying for. This weeks offering was not one of those.

1967. Kenneth and Sandra know the world is changing. And they want some of it.Love, Love, Love takes on the baby boomer generation as it retires, and finds it full of trouble. Smoking, drinking, ambitious and paranoid, one couple's forty-year journey from initial burst to full bloom.

On paper it sounded interesting and right up my street. However it proved uncomfortable viewing. Even as a smoker myself, I found the casts chain smoking a turn off. It is a small intimate theatre, and the smoke drifted through the audience creating a bit of a fug. And I am old enough to remember when we were allowed to smoke in theatres, cinemas and on buses.

The content of the production caused much comment in the 2 intervals. As we ladies of a certain age compared notes and experiences. It has to be said that this was the first time I have been there and become engaged in conversation with so many strangers in one night. This was certainly not a production I would have paid to see, though I am pleased that I did. Sometimes we need to experience thought provoking and uncomfortable things. This play was both.

A beautiful day on Withernsea prom.wmv

2011-05-09T09:52:00.001Z

I live in such a beautiful location its a shame some parts of it let us down. Hopefully this is the start of a general tidy up.

Kelsey Gardens Burstwick near Hull in Holderness

2011-05-09T09:51:00.001Z

On a sunny Sunday, what better way to enjoy yourself than messing about on a boat? in Kelsey Gardens.

Leg Waxing for Charity in Withernsea

2011-05-09T09:50:00.001Z

It was a scream on Saturday night watching these "brave" men, not to mention 1 woman (sorry for that Julie).

Catching up

2011-05-06T05:59:00.003Z

Time for a catch up, if only for my sisters sake - Lyn you really should sign up on facebook, I tend to put more on there.:)

I have been doing a lot of interviews, now showing on youtube under cside1053. Had a great time at Fort Paull on Monday at the WW11 enactment and met some lovely people. Also spent time in a canoe on the lake at Kelsey Gardens on Sunday. It was lovely weather, if a bit windy.

Though mostly I have been ebaying like mad. When I closed my shop a couple of years ago I was left with a lot of stock. A friend took a load of it when she opened a new shop as she did not have enough stock to fill it. Now her range has extended and she brought back 11 boxes of my stuff. On top of what I already had here, that is a lot.

So decided to try ebay again. Have tried it once before but without too much success. This time I have managed to sell a lot more, even though the prices are around the 99p mark, with the paypal and ebay fees there is not a lot left. But at least I am slowly making a dent in the amount of stuff here. Lots of bargain yarn and crafts at paulac3094 if anyone is interested.

Have also had the adopted grandson staying over for a couple of nights during the holiday. Great fun as I have been taking him to the playground and beach. Even though he did go paddling in his school shoes and I had to go and buy him a new pair:) also got him a pair of plastic sand shoes for when he is here. Should really have done that before:) Also have discovered I have a channel call Cbeebies on my TV - how on earth have I missed that one LOL.

So what has been happening to my knitting? To be honest, not a lot. I am still working on an aran cardi I started before Christmas. Have also acquired an old pattern of knitted patchwork squares that I have been making to use up some of my stash. Its great for all those free balls you get on magazines that you don't want to use on the suggested projects. Though I only have about 8 of the pieces knitted. The poor knitting machine is sitting lonely and abandoned and giving me pitiful glances as I walk past. I feel so guilty I almost dismantled it and put it away under the bed! Oh dear that would be the beginning of the end, as it probably would not see the light of day again. So I leave it there in the hopes that one day I may again have a chance to use it.

Oh yes, I have also started taking guitar lessons. I had this crazy idea that I would like to play at least one instrument, and Bob Parks offered. I wonder if he knew what he was taking on. It is much more difficult than I thought. Trying to get my fingers around the neck of the guitar and pressing on the right strings. It would not be too bad if you only pressed one at a time. I am deadening the tone of the strings next to the ones I am using if I have to press 2 or 3 for a cord. Not to mention the grooves I now have in the tips of my fingers from pressing too hard. Still practise as they say, makes perfect. I may never be perfect, but I will settle for being able to knock out a few songs on folk club nights.

Who on earth said retirement was a quite peaceful time when you could put your feet up and relax? But I am not complaining. Life is good and full and I am enjoying every minute of it.

Good Friday Charity Bike Ride

2011-04-22T17:24:00.001Z

Bill Oddie - "The Knitting Song"

2011-04-15T12:30:00.000Z

sand sculptures

2011-04-09T14:33:00.002Z

It was a lovely day on Withernsea beach, and luckily I had my camera with me. http://www.sandsculpture.co.uk/

Eric Beharrell

2011-03-24T19:41:00.000Z

Eric Beharrell

2011-03-24T18:43:00.003Z

Last year I was lucky enough to meet Eric and Bob. So when I wanted an update, I had expected to drive out to Hornsea for a catchup. But no. Eric and Bob came to my home and we had a wonderful evening with music and chat. Not everyone has live music in their living room, so I feel very lucky indeed. Though I apologise to my neighbours if we kept them awake.

What a wonderful night it was, and even though I did not actually get to bed until after midnight, it was worth every moment. Thank you Eric and Bob for an entertaining evening, and I am sure I will be seeing you again soon.

One of the reasons Eric was here was for me to show him a blog I have set up for him at - here Hope I have done that right.

Day in Beverley

2011-03-22T07:50:00.004Z

It was such a beautiful day yesterday. Wall to wall sunshine. After the miserable winter, a friend and I decided to have a day out. Beverley was our chosen venue as it is a place I love. Over the last few years I have enjoyed trips there for shopping and sightseeing, but there is always something else to see. Beverley Minster is beautiful, and I have visited several times. This time I decided to have a look round St Marys Church. It is a beautiful church founded in 1120 that has been added to and altered over the years. With a facinating history, this church is one to visit.

Walking around this historic town I discovered something I had not seen before. Paintings on several buildings around the town. These were by local artist Fred Elwell. Here

Dropped in at Hornsea Mere for an ice cream on the way home.

Have completed 3 scalfs for the lighthouse.

frustrating but all comes good in the end

2011-03-15T08:50:00.005Z

It has been a frustrating couple of weeks as I have been trying to burn a video to dvd. It seemed to work, but when played on the dvd on tv it kept coming up with "wrong disc". Thought it was probably my computer as it is old and slow compared with the new multi media machines on sale. So went to see my friendly computer expert, Phil. He has upgraded both my pc and laptop over the last couple of years, and agreed that compared with a modern machine, mine probably were not up to the task. So then and there I purchased a new laptop. Funnily enough it costed the same as my old one did a few years ago (£495) but is so much better.

Of course each time I buy a new computer the operating system has changed. I have gone from the very early days of Windows 3.1 to Windows 7. Each time they change some of the features and you have to relearn your favourites. It was not too difficult, though some of the new programs give me a few more grey hairs trying to suss them out.

Eventually last night, after goodness knows how many hours working on it, I managed to burn a dvd that played on the tv. Amazing, I now have to do some more editing, titles, credits etc. Which means the 1 hour 14 mins. will probably be nearer an hour and a half for the finished dvd. But I am so pleased I did not give up, and I am very very pleased with my new laptop.

With all the time it took sorting out the dvd problem, I have not had much time with my knitting needles. However I did try and get a scalf made for the lighthouse project. Simple? No of course not. I run out of the yarn I was using 3" before the correct length. So frogged it all back and restarted on larger needles with less stitches. It worked, but would rather it had turned out right the first time, then I would have had another made by now.

knitting scalf for lighthouse

2011-03-05T07:39:00.000Z

Knitting a scalf for the lighthouse

2011-03-05T07:11:00.003Z

It has been a busy week for interviews, Doro and I have been having so much fun that I doubt she will want to return home next week. But one of my favourite interviews has been with Anita from a local paper shop. Anita recently hurt her wrist and despite not really liking knitting, was advised to do some to help strengthen her muscles. Of course being Anita she decided to use this enforced physio to also try and raise money for local charities. So her project has been to knit a scalf for Withernsea Lighthouse. Not that she will be able to do it alone and put out an appeal for other local knitters to help.

Since I came up here it has never ceased to amaze me how much time and energy people spend raising money for local causes. It is a quite deprived area with high unemployment, but many thousands of pounds are raised each year at these events. Of course I will be doing my bit on the giant scalf project, and hope we raise lots of money for these charities.

Where are all the Daffodils?

2011-03-01T08:11:00.002Z

I see from previous posts that I intended to treat myself to a Wii back in October. Umm, the road to hell is paved with good intentions, they say. However I did not purchase this amazing box till last week. A retail therapy trip when depressed is probably not the best idea, but I do now own my own Wii with sports, sports resort and Just Dance 2, all part of the special package from Asdas. Luckily my friend was here with her Grandson, who set it all up and showed me how to work it. There is only one word for it - amazing. Why on earth did I wait so long?

Gradually my life returns to "normal". A young German girl is staying with me for 2 weeks holiday. Her enthusiasm and energy are catching.

St Davids Day and I wonder where are all the daffodils? There are a few buds in the supermarkets, but apart from green leaves appearing in the nearly bare ground, not a splash of yellow anywhere. No I lie, I have seen a few yellow crocuses scattered around, but have not yet seen a single daffodil growing.

Friends

2011-02-28T08:55:00.003Z

I have sadly neglected this blog, and feel so sorry for that. But the truth is that I foolishly allowed a man to enter my life and my heart. Even though I knew he was unworthy of the love, I still allowed myself to devote my time, energy and wellbeing to his keeping. Of course predictably it ended, and I am still grieving the lose. You would think that at my age I would have known better, however we cannot choose who we care for. Time as they say, is a great healer. Also the love and caring I have received from my friends has been a revelation to me.

For many years I thought bad things happened to punish me. After all I must have done something very wrong to feel this pain and suffering. God, or fate were showing me I needed to change my life - weren't they? Was it really so wrong to love the wrong person? Now I see that good friends are the compensation for the bad things that happen. I have been so lucky with my friends, and I do not take them for granted. When you take the wrong path in life, they are there to take your hand and lead you back onto the right one.

I do not know what I have done to deserve these friends, but thank God for them. I am truly blessed

hobnobbing

2010-11-23T10:05:00.002Z

My time at Seaside Radio means I get to hobnob with people in high places:) Though at the moment is means I have less time on here. I enjoy the interviews and get to meet interesting people like the Lord Mayor of Hull (met on a theatre trip) and the Mayor of Withernsea.

Last night we had a wonderful time listening to a local folk group - Morning Dew. I have heard them before and knew we would be in for a good night, and I was not disappointed. Andrew Wells sung more of his very funny songs about local people and places, including "Half my lands in Holland now". I love that song. It is such a shame that these events are not better attended, though about 40 people braved the elements to enjoy and evening of fun and laughter.

books and more

2010-10-26T06:59:00.002Z

I am on a mission to read as many local authors as I can. Of course Valerie Wood is top of the list as discovered her shortly after my arrival up here. Each new book is eagerly awaited and treated as an old friend when it arrives. Yesterday I finished Penny Grubbs "Like False Money", a cracking read with local interest and several mysteries to solve along the way. I now have "The Doll Makers" sitting on my shelves waiting to be read. But have picked up Karen Wolfes "Seers", another local author who I met at the signing of Pennys book in Beveley. As I do most of my reading in bed, it can take me a while to get through them, I have a pile of unread books awaiting my attention and had thought that retirement would allow me to catch up. However I had not anticipated my life getting so busy.

A few weeks ago I started on a hand knit aran top. Only a 12 row pattern, the sort of thing I can usually do with my eyes closed. It may be time for me to open my eyes and concentrate. So far I have had to frog it 3 times and start again. Sunday being a miserable cold and wet day, I started again with no distractions - so far, touch wood, it is going well.

For over a year I have had a hankering for a Wii. Though the price seemed to make it more of a luxury than a necessity. I was unsure if I would even use it. Yesterday a friends grandson demonstrated and let me play Wii sports. Tennis (easier than running round a cold court), golf ( that one will take some practise) and boxing (wow what a way to get a good workout and rid of the frustrations of the day). I have decided, I really want this amazing little box. The gym is fine, but getting cold and wet on the way there is not much fun. So on Thursday I am going to treat myself to an early Christmas present. I will do it now before Gareth goes home again, then if I need help setting it up, he is around to sort it out:)

Matha Lane Fox

2010-10-21T17:40:00.003Z

On Tuesday I was back in Bridlington again. Lovely town, and lovely people. For some reason the sun also shines when we are there - although this time, the rain did arrive mid afternoon. Now what on earth were we doing back in sunny Brid?

Get online week has begun. I did an interview with Martha Lane Fox the lady who co founded the lastminute.com, and is now spearheading the government raceonline2012. The aim to get as many people online as possible. At Bridlington they are giving free lessons to the general public. Especially the more mature population who may have been rather nervous using computers, and need help to see that they are not as scary as they may think.

Welwick Heritage Weekend

2010-10-12T10:32:00.003Z

Another wonderful Heritage Weekend at Welwick. 2 amazing days of sunshine when the crowds turned out to support this event. I think when the money is totalled up the charities will be very pleased with the cheques they will be presented with.

So many people worked hard and tirelessly to make the event the best yet. It was a fitting tribute to Bernard who started it so many years ago.

Hull Truck

2010-10-09T08:36:00.000Z

Hull Truck Not being a night owl, I am usually in bed by 9 most nights tucked up with a good book. This week however I was taken out for a birthday meal on Monday, worked on Thursday, and last night went to Hull Truck Theatre to see Wuthering Heights. Gaynor Faye played Cathy and at first I thought she might be too old for the part, but she was amazing. How on earth were they to portray one of the greatest love stories with just 5 actors on a small stage? I needn't have worried, the passion was there for all to see a and feel. Valerie Wood was also among the audience and came over for a chat. So even though it was another late night, I didn't mind missing more sleep:) There is a full weekend of events with the Welwick Heritage Weekend under way. Hopefully I will get back to my knitting next week.

No such thing as a free lunch

2010-10-03T07:02:00.002Z

I used to do a lot of cooking and baking when I still had a family to cook for. Nowadays I mainly cook for myself, vegetarian meals, but since the weight management program, no baking. At this time of year I remember all the preserving and baking, as Christmas cakes and fruit are in abundance. Sometimes I miss my old Bramley apple tree, that kept us in apples all through the winter. This week a friend appeared with a very large bag of cooking apples and a couple of dozen eggs. There is nothing for it but to hit the kitchen. Waste not want not. I peel and core apples before cooking and find enough boxes to freeze them. Half way down the bag I run out of sugar, not an item I use very often and 1 bag can last me a year.

I need to make pastry to make some of them into pies, and also bake some cakes to use the eggs. This means I now have a shopping list that includes sugar, butter, flour and dried fruit. Of course I will not be able to eat all the goodies, and will have to give them to friends. But the free apples and eggs have come at a cost. My freezer is too small to keep much. Of course I could buy a bigger freezer, but then the pies and pastries will have cost even more. Not to mention the extra electricity and gas for the cooking.

Could this be what they mean by "there is no such thing as a free lunch?" The apples and eggs cost nothing, but using them up is going to push my grocery bill up considerably. However I am still very grateful to my friend for thinking of me, and will thank them with pies and cakes when I have finished working my way through them all.

Half decided

2010-10-01T07:29:00.004Z

Yesterday I had to wait in for the engineer to fix my boiler, so thought I would have another look at the knitting machine and patterns. Have decided that plain jumper is boring, so took out a few punch cards and had a play. My old favourite card three, with both tuck and tuck lace. No problems with this one as I remembered from years ago that if I put down the weaving brushes all the needles knitted off properly. But over the years I have knitted a lot of card 3, and maybe I wanted something different.

I tried a slip stitch and did not like it too much, so got out the lace carriage. This took a bit longer to sort as I had forgotten the edge pins and had to keep checking in the book for the settings.

I even had a go at punch lace, though that did not turn out as I had intended, probably because I did not use the fine thread made for this stitch.

I then thought about patterns and remembered that I had some knitware software on my computer. I measured my tension squares and put the stitches and rows. Had a play round with the different patterns, altering the neck and sleeve shaping until I was happy with the result. I have now half decided to do a lace jumper with dropped sleeves and round neck. All I need now is time to get started. As I am off swimming this morning and at weight management this afternoon

decisions, decisions

2010-09-30T07:18:00.003Z

Somehow you always know when winter is on its way, the boiler develops a fault. Not that I have my heating on yet, but I miss the constant hot water. After trying several firms, including the man who installed it, I find the boiler is not your run of the mill boiler, but one that really needs specialist handling. So I phone the makers who promise someone will be out today to fix it. I hope so as although the sun is shining, the day has a definite autumnal feel. Of course they only give something like an eight hour time slot, with a half hour phone warning when they will be here.

Yesterday I took cover off the knitting machine, went through some patterns. Looked at the million cones of yarn, and tried to decide what I wanted to make. I have chosen a pale blue and knitted a tension square - yeah I actually did one. This is because I have no idea what ply any of the cones are having rescued them from someone who was just going to throw them out. As they cost me nothing I will not worry too much if something does not turn out as I wish. Though I hope it does because of the time factor. Anyway the tension is somewhere between a 3 and 4 ply, and as I have no charting device I am unsure what to do. I do have some basic patterns and thought maybe I would just try a simple plain jumper in 4 ply and see what happens. But then again I may try a different cone and see if I can get a more definite tension...........

Knitting needles are alien beings

2010-09-29T07:27:00.002Z

Winter must be coming, the boiler developes a fault and I pick up my knitting needles. Hopefully the boiler will be fixed again and I will once more have hot water, though I do have an electric shower there is some hot water.

The knitting is using some lovely aran I had left from the shop. I have spent some time deciding what pattern to use, none of them really grabbing me. Then on Sunday went to Skirleigh market and found just the right one. Started on Monday and frogged it on Tuesday. Maybe today I will actually make some progress. After months of small cross stitch projects, I find the knitting needles feel like alien tools. Maybe I should have started on something smaller and easier, but I have been knitting most of my life I should be able to cope with this pattern.

What on earth will happen when I unwrap the knitting machine, clear a space for it and once again try to make something? Another thing I am trying to decide what to make. Going through hundreds of patterns makes it difficult not to get side tracked. I can suddenly find a couple of hours have disappeared and I am no nearer to making a decision.

Not that I can worry about that today. I have a physio appointment this morning to see if the pain in my neck and shoulder can be helped. The tablets for the pain make me dozy - even more dozy than normal I mean. Which could explain why I am finding it difficult to make decisions. So I am pinning my hopes on a quick fix solution. As I know there is not one, I am doomed to disappointment again.

Penny Grubb & Gervase Phinn

2010-09-28T07:42:00.006Z

Such a lot has been happening, though not unfortunately on here. Its time to catch up and move forward.

On the 18th September I travelled to the beautiful Beverley for a book signing by local author Penny Grubb. We then had a lovely meal at a local hostelry followed by a visit to the authors home. Where drinks and snacks were abundant, not to mention some truly scrumptious cakes. Back on diet soon:) Sitting there listening to other writers and friends meant a pleasant afternoon passed far too quickly.

While in the bookshop I noticed that Gervase Phinn was coming to a booksigning there too, and immediately made plans to go and see him. What an opportunity, having first encountered him on the Ester Ranzan show many years ago. I have several of his books and they always make me laugh out loud. Then a thought entered my head. Wouldn't it be amazing to interview him? Well yes, but he is so famous, would he be interested? I sat down and wrote him a cheeky and flattering letter. No harm in trying. He got back to me saying he would be delighted! If you don't ask, you don't get.

Bridlington

2010-09-04T09:54:00.003Z

A few months ago I had a week in Bridlington helping out in the Bridlington Community Resource Center http://bridlington.seasidevoices.org.uk/?cat=1. Yesterday I went back to witness the official opening of the garden and centre by the MP Greg Knight.

The sun shone and supporters flocked to share in the buffet lunch provided. For me it was the chance to catch up with some old friends and have a laugh, which we certainly did. So Clare and Lesley thank you so much for the warm welcome again, and I hope to see you both again soon.

Summertime Special

2010-08-29T09:53:00.002Z

http://ericbuharrell.blogspot.com/

Its Summertime Special in Withernsea and the Motorcycle Rally. Summertime Special and free family concert for all ages in Valley Gardens with such artistes as Bad Dog, Glitter Band and The Searchers. So what does the weather do? Yep it rains. So rainmacs and brollies at the ready I am off to join in the fun:)

Happy Birthday Len

2010-08-15T10:55:00.002Z

Leonard Peter Robinson

15th August 1953 -

1st June 1973.

Rest in peace little brother. Still remembered, still loved. Wish you were here today so we could celebrate your 57th birthday. I hope you are celebrating with Mum & Dad xxx

A tour if Driffield Show in a Fire Engine

2010-08-15T10:11:00.003Z

It was a lovely day yesterday, the sun shone and the crowds turned out. I drive round the field in an old Jersey fire engine was the highlight of my day.

Eric Beharrell Maker of Musical Instruments

2010-08-15T10:11:00.002Z

Eric Beharrell, maker and repairer of instruments. It was such a pleasure to meet and talk to this gentleman, not to mention having a look at the instruments in his house. Although he does not read a not of music, he demonstrated the sounds of banjo's, mandolins and the incredible hurdy gurdy. These are not just musical instruments, they are works of art.

Arts + crafts @ Driffield

2010-08-15T10:10:00.001Z

Demonstrations of lace making, quilting and cross stitch were a must on my itinerary at the 21st Driffield Steam and Vintage Rally. I enjoyed this much more than at Pickering last week. Although that could have been because I got drenched in a sudden prolonged downpour. No such problem this week with glorious sunshine all day.

Why we came home early

2010-08-11T16:29:00.003Z

Well I survived the camping trip - just. I have to say that in the end we only spent 1 night camping due to getting drenched at Pickering Traction Engine Rally. We had been there about 4 hours with lovely sunshine and were about 3 fields away from the car park when the heavens opened and there was nowhere to shelter. Of course the unbrellas were in the car:( The only thing we could do was head to the car and strip off. Not an easy thing to do. Our only clean clothes being those we were to wear home on Sunday. We decided the only thing to do was head home and get a nice hot shower and clean dry clothes on.

However Sunday was lovely and Bernie Woods once again did us proud at Valley Gardens.

2 nights under canvas

2010-08-06T07:08:00.003Z

Somehow or other I let myself think that a couple of nights under canvas would be a fun thing to do. What on earth was I thinking? I have never camped in my life, preferring my home comforts like running water, flushing toilets and sleeping in a comfortable bed. But I have agreed now, and this afternoon will pack a sleeping bag and a few clothes and be driven up to the North Yorkshire Moors. A beautiful place I agree, but how many creepy crawlies will be sharing my bed tonight:(

If I don't return from this adventure. Farewell, and its been fun x

weight loss program

2010-08-04T07:47:00.002Z

For the last few months I have been doing a weight management program. This involves different exercises, including yoga, racket ball, swimming and dancing. It has been fun. I am a member of the gym but I found that a bit boring, especially as you work on your own. With this program there are several of us and we have a good laugh, as well as encouraging each other. My weight has gradually been going down, and I realised yesterday that it will only take 2 more pounds loss to have dropped a stone. Even better I did not realise I was doing it:)

If we got discouraged by the slow weight loss, we were shown 2 packs of lard = roughly 1lb - which really demonstrated how much was going each week. There were sessions where we swapped low cal recipes. And on a lovely sunny day we all went down to the beach to exercise. I don't think I could follow any sort of diet, but this way we gradually loss weight and have a lot of fun.

It really did not matter that we were older, and had various medical problems, as the exercises were adapted to suit us all. I think all of us have dropped at least a dress size, as well as making new friends along the way.

Interviewing Valerie Wood

2010-08-03T10:45:00.003Z

Charity clothes bags

2010-08-01T14:09:00.004Z

I am a fairly trusting person, naive I am sure. But I am getting more and more concerned about the number of "charity" clothing bags being deposited on my doorstep, sometimes as many as 2 a day. For 2 weeks I kept a pile of them and today have had a count up. 15. Now like most women I am sure I have far too many clothes. My wardrobe contains things that I have never worn, or only worn once or twice. Some of the things do not fit, and some went out of fashion in Queen Victoria's reign. BUT I do not have enough to fill all of these bags. Another worry has been the number of charity scams going round. So today I put them all through the computer and discovered 5 of them are reported scams. That is 1/3rd of them, even I was surprised.

Now I have the problem what to do with all these sheets of paper and plastic sacks - I am sure I should tear the sacks into strips and knit ecologically sound bags with them, but I just do not have the time right now. So all the sheets of paper are going in my blue recycle bin, and I am going to use the plastic sacks to put put rubbish in when I clean out the rabbits.

It is such a shame that the legitimate charities spend so much money producing these items, but never collect the unused ones - I have 3 from the NSPCC. How many hundreds of thousands of these were produced, and at what cost? Surely it would have been better to use that money helping out the children they say they are collecting for.

And what do I do with my unwanted clothes? Anything of good quality goes to my local charity shops. All the rest is taken to my local tip for recycling.

Andrew Wells with his song, Half my land

2010-07-27T08:41:00.000Z

Awards Assembly @ Withernsea High School

2010-07-23T11:35:00.005Z

Today I had the great honour of attending the Annual Governors' Awards Assembly at Withernsea High School. An introduction was made by Dr F Ireland (Headmaster), and Mr B Cloke (Chair of Governors) made the response.

First up was the Service to the School Council introduced by Ms S Harris (teacher), and I presented the certificates to Emily Birks and Jackie Barker.

Many more awards were handed out by other members of the community who supported the school. All of these young people had excelled in their topics and it was a privilege to see them step up in front of family and friends to collect their awards.

Rachael Mackenzie (Youth Sports Trust) was the visiting speaker, and she gave an inspiring speech aimed at showing that if you really want something, and were prepared to work for it, you would succeed.

The program described today as "A celebration of effort and excellence of the students of our school". It was certainly that, and I feel proud and humbled to have been invited to join in the fun.

An enchanting evening in Sheffield

2010-07-21T14:49:00.000Z

Some time ago I received an email from a student in Sheffield requesting my help. She was doing some work on coastal erosion in Withernsea, and wanted to talk to people about their feelings on it. I thought about this and sent off an email to a friend who used to be Mayor of Withernsea asking his advice. He promptly emailed me back with a couple of name of people who would be useful on this project. Several emails later a date was set for her visit. In the meantime I had set up several other interviews for her.

Pooja arrived on Friday and we hit it off straight away. It was like having another daughter around, and we spent a lot of time laughing and talking about everything under the sun. We went round getting interviews and taking photos for her work, but we also had a lot of fun as well.

She had to go back to Sheffield yesterday, Tuesday, and I wanted to take her to the train station and see her off. But a dear friend had other ideas. He arranged to drive us both to Sheffield and drop her off. Which we did, stopping first for a meal together. We then met her sister and niece before driving home again. Not arriving till after midnight. It was a beautiful way to end a wonderful visit and we will certainly be seeing each other again soon. Thank you Pooja for being the person you are, and thank you Vic for giving us this extra time together.

Withernsea Lighthouse Museum

2010-07-19T05:59:00.001Z

Withernsea Lighthouse Museum Yesterday I once again climbed this 144 steps to the top of Withernsea Lighthouse. This is the 3rd time I have done it, and after the 2nd time I swore I would never do it again. No head for heights really, but had a young friend staying and wanted to show her the sights. She is a student from Sheffield doing research on coastal erosion around Withernsea. I have been helping her, and setting up interviews. It has been strange not doing the interviews myself, but good to stand back and watch someone else doing it:)

On Friday I have been invited to the Annual Governors' Awards Assembly at the High School and have been asked to present an award to one of the students. I consider this a great honour as I think education is so important. My Sheffield student is already one of the most qualified people I know, but at 25 is carrying on with her education for at least another year. Not an option open to everyone, I know, but a shining example of what can be done with a bit of hard work.

the workings of bernards organ.wmv

2010-06-29T17:25:00.000Z

The fish in Kelsey Gardens fishing lake

2010-06-29T10:38:00.000Z

You will need to turn up the speakers for 2nd half of this as I was whispering so as not to disturb the fish. Made me wish we had the rods with us as I would love to catch a really big fish.

Kirsty Martin of Kelsey Gardens Burstwick

2010-06-27T15:51:00.000Z

Kelsey Gardens

2010-06-27T15:42:00.002Z

Last week at Keyingham I interviewed Kirsty Martin who was at the show promoting Kelsey Gardens outdoor activities. This week I decided to go and have a look round at what was on offer. Never imagining that I would actually take part in anything physical. But as the pictures show I donned a life jacket and stepped aboard a rather small craft for a spot of canoeing. It was not as scary as I expected and I am sure I would love to have another go some time. Thank you very much Ian for the experience.

The weather was beautiful and the welcome just as warm. I would wholeheartedly recommend this location for a spot of fishing, the fish are amazing. Or why not have a kayaking or conoeing birthday party. It is still a work in progress, but what has been done is wonderful. The walks around this area are stunning, and today several dogs were having fun swimming out for sticks and balls. www.kelseygardens.org.uk

Kelsey Gardens

Hariff Lane

Burstwick

HU12 9HU

red garden

2010-06-17T07:01:00.003Z

I told my gardener he has a free hand, just to plant lots and lots of red. He is now filling my garden with red flowers and I love it.

Valerie Wood signing books at Densholme C

2010-06-13T20:00:00.000Z

Valerie Wood

2010-06-13T19:53:00.003Z

Valerie Wood, local author, I have all her books and eagerly await her next. Not the first time I have met her, but always a pleasure. Such a great supporter of local events.

Retirement

2010-06-09T06:24:00.003Z

I had the really strange idea that retirement was a quiet and peaceful time when you had time to catch up with all those things you never had time for. Um something went wrong there. I have never been busier than I have been this last 6 months, or more exhausted. Or happier.

On Friday I am going to see Pirates of Penzance in Sheffield. Not that I have ever been into Gilbert and Sullivan, more of a Country Music gal myself. Though helping out Vic with his part in Ruddigore has given me a new appreciation of this genre. As a thank you Vic is taking me to see this production before I have chance to see his, just to compare. I am looking forward to it so much and have been reading the synopsis so that I have an idea of what is going on.

One of the first things I did when I retired was take out gym membership, not that I am keen on all those machines. But it does get me into aqua 3 times a week. Also doing a weight management program that involves various things like dance, yoga and badminton. Yesterday I had a go at racket ball, which was a little too furious for me. At the weigh in yesterday I found I had lost 4lbs. It does not sound a lot, but our instructor said to compare it with a bag of sugar. 2 bags of sugar feel quite heavy and that made me appreciate how much it actually is:)

But when oh when am I going to get back to that long list of projects I have stashed away all over the house? I used to say when I retire, what on earth can I say now?

David Bellamy

2010-06-01T17:35:00.003Z

It is not everyday you get to interview David Bellamy, so when the opportunity arose, of course I was up for it. He is an absolutely charming man, easy to chat to and funny too boot. Of course not everyone I interview gives me a kiss, but hey if I had not been a fan of David's before, I would certainly be so now:)

Ruddigore

2010-05-31T16:22:00.002Z

A friend of mine is doing a Gilbert and Sullivan production of Ruddigore in a couple of weeks. Practising is going well, I can't wait to see the show.

on the lifeboats

2010-05-13T16:51:00.003Z

A friend of mine used to work on the lifeboats. I wanted to keep some of those memories and have made a video of some of his stories. Editing takes a while, but this is first of the stories he has to tell.

recycling

2010-05-12T15:10:00.002Z

East Riding Council sent me a letter informing of a change of collection day for my blue bin. This is fine, I do not have a problem with this. After all it helps if you want to put your bin out on the right day. No what I have a problem with is the fact that they sent me 3 identical letters in the same envelope. Guess where they are going? Straight into the blue bin. Why? Well the blue bin is my recycle bin. I do my bit for recycling, putting in all my tins, plastic bottles and paper including junk mail. Well done ERC for creating even more recycling for me to put into the bin for you to collect. Where you afraid I did not create enough of my own?

fingers crossed

2010-05-06T05:12:00.006Z

http://www.emofaces.com/

The big day has arrived after what seems like a build up of years. Yes today we can exercise our democratic right to put a cross on a piece of paper and elect our chosen government. Like most of the country I have spent most of the last few weeks wondering who to vote for. All the parties seem much of a muchness, with good and bad in all their policies.

Gordon, David or Nick. Who do we chose to run our country for the next 4 or 5 years?

I am not apathetic, I know Emily Pankhurst (1858-1928) and others suffered for my right to vote. So I will put my cross in what I hope is the right box, and then cross my fingers that I have not made a mistake.

the garden springs to life at last

2010-04-30T06:46:00.004Z

After a long winter there is at there is some colour in the garden.

It may only be bluebells, but they look lovely.

2010-04-17T08:12:00.001Z

Colin Fry

2010-04-16T06:09:00.002Z

Last night some friends and I had tickets to see Colin Fry at City Hall, Hull. Not a venue I had been to before so worth it just for that experience. The crowds were gathering when we arrived although it did not take us long to locate our seats and sit down.

It was hard to not compare Colin's performance with Sally Morgan last year. Although he had some witty one liners, and relaxed the audience, for me there seemed to be something lacking. Maybe that was just me.

People go to these shows for many reasons, .A large number of them are seeking answers to problems or just want the chance to speak to loved ones who have passed over. At the start of the show a disembodied voice warns that this is for entertainment and education only. Though lets be honest probably 90% of the audience are there to connect to the other side. Nothing wrong with this. Though a public venue for personal issues does not always sit well.

Personally I have always felt the presence of both my grandmother and my father. I believe they are there with me giving love and support in difficult times. Though this may be a continuation of the love they gave me in life. The unconditional love a parent feels for a child or grandchild that does not disappear in death. I felt no need of a public affirmation of this fact.

So why did I go? It was a good evening out, for less than the cost of a decent meal out. Would I go again? Maybe not to Colin Fry, but we do have tickets to a return visit of Sally Morgan in July. There is no doubt they are both sincere in what they do, though maybe Sally has the edge for creating a more homely atmosphere. Both happily signed autographs and books at the end and we had our pictures taken with them. And maybe, just maybe I too was subconsciously seeking answers to life's difficult questions.

Good Friday

2010-04-02T05:52:00.002Z

Today is an eagerly awaited date in our local calander. Every year on Good Friday is the Welwick to Kilnsey charity bike ride. Not that I have ever rode in it, my job being to follow behind in the truck helping out stragglers and pick up bikes for anyone who cannot face the ride back. I have only missed one since I have been here, and that was last year when I was working.

It really is a wonderful sight with about 200 people ranging from babies on carriers to people in their 80's making the 7 mile trip on 2, 3 or 4 wheels. A lot of money is made for charity each year, as well as everyone having a lovely time.

The weather is looking a bit overcast but the wind seems to have died down. Here's hoping for a a good day. As Bernard will not be with us this year, I think we will all be thinking about him and remembering all his hard work at these events. We will do him proud.

One of lifes gentlemen

2010-03-25T07:19:00.002Z

Yesterday we attended the funeral of The Welwick Relic, a sad day for our community. The church was packed to the rafters and many more listened to the service under a marquee erected outside. The day started damp and miserable, but at 12.30 the sun shone through the stained glass windows, and continued to shine throughout the service. At 12.55 the church bells rang and we waited for Bernard and his family to arrive. The Rev. Duncan Harris's disembodied voice asking us to stand as he led the funeral party in. During the service memories of Bernard made us all smile, something he would have approved of enormously. Here was a man well loved and respected throughout the community and further afield. A man who even in death was still raising money for charity. The donation plates were full of notes and coins destined for Dove House, Marie Curie Cancer Care and St Mary's Church. Bernard Blashill, a true character. One of life's real gentlemen, the world will be a poorer place without you. Though everyone who knew you was indeed truly blessed.

still a non swimmer

2010-03-23T07:37:00.002Z

Yesterday I did 10 widths of the swimming pool. Does this mean I am now a swimmer? I don't think so, I am too nervous to go out of my depth and my style is somewhat different from my friends. My body is still too low in the water and my legs seem to have developed an action that is less like a frog and more like a drowning mouse. My head still refuses to get fully submerged and as soon as my body starts to float I panic and grab the nearest object. Thankfully I am usually near enough the side to grab that. I would hate passing swimmers to suddenly find my arms wrapped round them as I struggle to get upright. Practise makes perfect they say. I will keep on trying until I am happy with the result. Maybe then I will be able to term myself a real swimmer.

Pain

2010-03-17T07:15:00.003Z

Ouch, I now remember why I have not done line dancing for a long time. At some time my knees decided that vigorous exercise was a definate no no. Over time other parts of my body joined in, not least the neck and shoulder which the hospital described as widespread degenerative changes. Along with narrowing of the left C5/C6 and both C7 nerve root foramina leading to pain down the left arm. I know I am not taking anywhere near the prescribed dosage of my painkillers and could easily take more, and I am not a masocist. But as the problem will only get worse, and the side effects would curtail my lifestyle, I have to make a choice. Do I keep taking the minimum dose which means living with the pain, or should I up the dose now and risk them not working so well in the future?

learn to say NO

2010-03-16T07:55:00.002Z

I still have a pile of projects to finish off, something I started the in the new year with good intentions. Now I seem to be getting a collection of other peoples projects to finish off too.

The bear came from a friend who hates sewing up so will palm it off on anyone daft enough to say yes - moi?

Helen has not been knitting long and I have given her a lot of help - thanks for the chocolate Helen. Now I have a shawl she has been working on. All she wants is the edging sewn on. Umm there are yards and yards of it. Finally my sister sent a cardi she had started. The back and 1 one front look fine, but she got stuck on the second front. Once again I said send it to me. Good job I love you little sis.

All this when I seem to be spending less time at home. Today we are line dancing for sports relief. It is years since I put on the old boots and jeans and grapevined my way round the floor. But it should be fun.

Now I just need to get myself organised and finish off these projects, and then learn to say NO!

RIP Bernard

2010-03-15T08:42:00.002Z

On Friday afternoon our community lost a hero. Not the usual sort of hero, Bernard was a man who just did what he did and enriched many lives. Over the years he has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity. His farm hosted many great events annually. The Heritage Weekend, the Good Friday Bike Ride, Threshing Weekend and many more. I have been privileged to have helped out at several of these events over the last 5 years. Bernard will be missed by many many people, not least his wife Mary. God Bless you Bernard, you were truly one of life's gentlemen. The world really will be a poorer place without you in it.

Dancing in Withernsea

2010-03-10T07:25:00.004Z

Yesterday Withernsea hosted a tea dance in the Pavilion Leisure Centre. Many more people turned up than anticipated, and the dance floor was full of the more mature ladies and gents who had donned their dancing shoes for a couple of hours. I do wish that I could also have graced the venue with my own twinkle toes, but the few old time dances I actually learnt, have long since left my memory. However I did enjoy the music, and if there are any classes arranged in the future I will be signing up.

Paul Silvester - cute or what? - one of the organisers gave me an interview for Seaside Radio. Well I guess there are some perks to this reporting lark :) although there is a serious side to this. Part of the change for life initiative, this is a simple and fun way of staying active and fit. As we get older it is harder to exercise, but dancing is also a social activity that many enjoy. 2 more have been arranged in April, and I think it will prove popular enough to have a regular spot on the Withernsea calender.

returning to normal life

2010-03-09T07:04:00.004Z

As Bridlington fades into the memory, "normal" life resumes. Whatever normal is. Having missed aqua for 3 weeks I was feeling sluggish and out of condition, so yesterday a friend and I went swimming. Even though I class myself as a non swimmer, I did manage 3 widths. I could probably do a couple of lengths of the pool, but hate being out of my depth. Actually I am still very nervous in the water, but its a lot easier on the old body than the gym.

Speaking of old, I had a long chat with my sister on Skype on Sunday - Hello Lyn, I know you read this to find out what I have been up to. Its great to be able to see loved ones as well as talk to them. The only problem being that you also see yourself. When on earth did I turn into my grandma. Don't get me wrong, I loved my Nana, but I never imagined I would one day be as old as she was. Well the webcam proved me wrong. One thing it showed me was that I am well overdue for a visit to the hairdressers. Something I rectified yesterday when I went and made an appointment for Friday for highlights. I really don't mind being 60, its quite an achievement, but I do mind looking it.

As my car breaks were groaning when I applied them, I took it to my friendly garage yesterday to be looked at. Luckily he has sorted it out and the car is ready to pick up this morning. Thank goodness there are people who don't mind getting their hands dirty and have the skill and training to keep us on the road. Now I just need the reappearance of my gardener to start weaving his magic on the pocket handkerchief of a garden I have, and make some order out of the chaos out there, and all will be right with the world.

RNLI Bridlington

2010-03-06T07:58:00.008Z

Our last day at Bridlington. What an experience it has been. People were invited in to see what we were up and also been shown how to blog and leave messages on the seaside voices website. http://bridlington.seasidevoices.org.uk/

Justin and I then had one last interview to do with the Chris Brompton of the RNLI. This meant climbing a steep ladder up onto deck and then hanging on for dear life as you moved around. How on earth do these brave men do it when being tossed about in heavy seas? Not to mention then having to rescue people at the same time. Well done all of you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psVxdLfZ0cA

I took one look at that ladder and told Justin he was on his own. Though I really could not bear to miss such a wonderful opportunity, and followed him up. OK I know nothing about boats, but at least I was there:)

I am really going to miss our time in Bridlington. Thank you to everyone who made it such and enjoyable week.

Yesterdays report

2010-03-05T06:26:00.004Z

Ben Lawry captain of the Rugby club in Bridlington.

The club hosts many functions throughout the year, supporting the locality and various charities.

Howard Heyhurst who at 65 has just returned from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. What an inspiration to us all.

3rd day

2010-03-04T06:04:00.005Z

With another day of wonderful sunshine, it was a pleasure to go down the Bridlingtons sandy beach, so unlike Withernseas. It was a long day yesterday and I am getting very tired. But the tasks we are doing are varied and interesting, and I really do not want to miss a minute of it. Yesterdays highlight was a trip to the beach with Rev Ben Norton who is celebrating Lent with sand writing. During the 40 days of Lent the Reverend and some of his community are going down to the beach to write something that reflects how they feel. It can be anything, a quote from a book or film, something personal to them. Ben wrote a quote from The Shawshank Redemption, "Get busy living, or get busy dying". Last night the tide would have washed this away, and today someone else will be adding their personal thoughts to that glorious beach.

Rev Ben works out of Emmanuel Church Bridlington. Above is a picture of what it used to look like. Unfortunately it was burnt down and had to be rebuilt.

The result, to me, does not look like a church. In fact it reminded me of a crem. and Ben thought it looked like a swimming pool.

But it is well used with a playgroup and others.

After all its what happens in church that is important, rather than what the building looks like. Although I do still like my churches to look like my idea of them.

2nd day @ Brid

2010-03-03T06:26:00.002Z

3rd early morning in a row. This is getting harder each day. But its so interesting I am determined to finish the week. http://bridlington.seasidevoices.org.uk/ Will show what we have been up to.

First day in Bridlington

2010-03-02T06:32:00.004Z

Think they must have been expecting us in Bridlington, look they put out the balloons. Seriously it was a good day and I met so many interesting people. Clare from YASS (Young Adult Support Service) being one of them. She had such passion for her work and a lovely personality.

An added bonus was the sun shone all day. OMG how long is it since we saw the sun? Although it cooled down later, for most of the day it was terrific. Hope its as good today.

Back in good old Withernsea. The high tide was spectacular as the waves crashed over the prom. Better still was the wonderful sunset behind the amusements. Thank goodness we returned in time to experience it.

Wonder what today will bring. Apart from the early start that is:)

2010-03-01T18:49:00.001Z

Withernsea

2010-02-27T07:40:00.002Z

Flu and a chest infection left me very tired and low and unable to do much, so there has not been much to write about. Now I am recovered, nearly, and exciting things are happening.

On Monday I am off to Bridlington to ask some people what they think of there town, and video their responses. It got me thinking, what would I say if someone asked me about Withernsea.

Well when I came up here 6 years ago I really did not know what to expect. I had never heard of the place and knew nothing about it. I had a friend who had just moved here and stayed with her till I sorted myself out. Quite a scary prospect. Luckily I got into voluntary work and started making friends. These friends helped me when I moved into my first rented house, cleaning and providing the essentials of life- tv, kitchen equipment curtains and furniture.

Never having lived by the sea before, it was amazing to go to the beach every day and see the sea in all its moods. In fact I used to go each day just to see if it was still there:) Of course it always was, and I don't go so often now even though its only a couple of hundred yards up the road. But I trust that no one has pulled the plug and it will still be there waiting when I go back.

A lot of people who have lived here all their lives say there is nothing to do. I however found plenty to do. I joined a craft club, enrolled at adult education, did courses and joined committees. It was hard at first doing this alone, but my circle of friends was increasing all the time.

Its true that there are things that can be improved here, and there is a regeneration plan for the town in place. Though progress seems slow and since the recession it has become a shadow of its former self. Actually the beginning of the end for poor old Withernsea seems to date from the closing of the railway long before I came up here. What was Mr Beeching thinking of?

There is a lot of apathy here and many of the school children seem to have no hopes or ambitions for the future. Something I find very sad and difficult to understand. As a parent I always wanted my children to have better than I did, and education was the way forward. Here a lot of the parents seem to have little regard for education or the future of their children. Though I understand this is now a countrywide problem as people see nothing getting better.

Despite all this, I love Withernsea. I love the majority of the people and the way they welcome strangers - even people like me from that strange country called "down south". The Yorkshire countryside is beautiful and the history is amazing. The pace of life is slower and a traffic jam might consist of 5 cars:) It may not be for everyone, but to me it has been an experience I would not have missed. I may have to be here for another 20 years to be considered local, but to walk down the main street saying hello to everyone you meet, is a joy and a pleasure.

flu

2010-02-10T10:06:00.002Z

I feel awful. Head aching, coughing and sweating. Is this flu? Well if it is I don't want it. And to make it worse there is snow on the ground - not that I have any intention of venturing outside today, and maybe for the rest of the week. In fact I am just going to take my cup of tea back to bed now and stay there till I need another drink.

Friday

2010-02-05T06:32:00.002Z

Another project finished this year. I had knitted a black sweater last winter, the collar had a 95% wool content, though the rest of the jumper was acylic. Having been accidently put into the washing machine, the collar felted. As I loved the jumper I still wanted to wear it. So have cut off the old one and reknitted the collar in a lovely fluffy yarn that contains no wool. Its now wearable again.

I have had a sat nav for some time as I can get lost in a room with more than 1 door. But although I have set it up for places I know, I have never used it to find my way somewhere different. Today I am taking a friend to a hospital about an hours drive away. I have only a very vague idea of where it is. So today I am relying on my sat nav 100%. As I know it might take me on a totally different route to usual, this is a leap of faith. But at least I have home keyed into it, so no matter what we will get back again. Even if the route is slightly eccentric.

Stupidity

2010-02-01T16:58:00.002Z

OK I have been using a computer a long time. I know the rules about not opening links you don't know about even if they do seem to come from a friend. I guess over the years I have become complacent. I have never knowing downloaded a virus onto any computer I have owned - till now. Or rather last week. In my own defence I was tired and not really concentrating on what I was doing, but it was annoying and has kept me off the computer for a few days. Thanks to "adopted son" Pete, my computer and I are up and running again. But I will be doubly careful now what links I open. Facebook can be fun, and its unfair to blame if for my own stupidity, but I will be very wary opening any links on there in future, even if they do seem to come from a friend.

So if I am in the mood for confessing my stupidity, I will admit I have also agreed to something else that I may live to regret. First let me say, I love my home comforts. I love hot and cold running water, soft beds, flushing toilets and switches that turn lights on and off. In fact I cannot imagine anything worse than spending nights under canvas in a wet field that usually holds sheep or cows. Yesterday a friend phoned up and said I was going camping with her and another friend.............ummmm, am I? Once again I am pleading exhaustion, and maybe a touch of insanity. I am not sure how it happened, but I heard myself saying, "That might be fun". Fun? what on earth was I thinking?

I think before I do anything else stupid, I will close the computer down. Go and have some tea and pick up my knitting. After all I can't get into any trouble with a pair of needles, can I?

Vampires

2010-01-22T14:34:00.002Z

I love bookshops, and Waterstones has to be one of my favourite stores to browse through. Luckily I don't get into Hull that often or my bank balance would be zero, because I cannot leave there with at least 2 books in a carrier bag - usually its a lot more. Reading is a real passion, and I do have shelves full of books I am waiting to read, but somehow I cannot resist buying more.

Last year I discovered the Stephenie Meyer Twilight Saga and promptly brought the first 3. I past on the 4th because it was still in hardback and as I do a lot of reading in bed I prefer paperbacks. I know they are aimed at teenage girls, but with a passion for vampires and anything supernatural, I had to have them. Of course once I started them, I could not put them down. Although I found the main character, Bella, extremely irritating, I still found the books amazing. I past them to a friend at work who also fell in love with them. Like me she found it difficult knowing there was a 4th book and when she saw the hardback on sale for half price, she could not resist buying it. Having finished it in a few days she then passed it on to me. Last night while I was at work with her I finished the final chapters, and we had great pleasure enjoying the stories again together.

This is another pleasure associated with reading. Finding someone with the same tastes to discuss the book with. I brought the dvd of Twilight the moment it came out, though have to admit I did not really enjoy it. Edward was not at all as I imagined him, and although he appealed to younger females, I did not find him very special at all. Though Kerry and her daughter thought he was lovely. So I will not be rushing to see the new film.

However a recent run of True Blood on TV has thrown up a truly beautiful vampire in Bill Compton, played by Stephen Moyer. This is a lot more grown up version of the genre, and although Sookie Stackhouse, played by Anna Paquin, seems a little on the young side, seems to tick a few more boxes. I cannot wait for the next series.

Anne Rice states vampires are "so last year" and has moved onto religious fiction. I very much enjoyed the Vampire Chronicles, but will probably be giving these new ones a miss.

Also on a slightly occult note, the new shop now has an interesting selection of hand crafted witches based on the Witches of Pendle. Local self confessed witches who were hanged in 1612. The details on these dolls is amazing, some with really cute earrings, and the shoes and tatty clothes. My favourite is a rolly polly one on a broomstick whose name I cannot remember, but she has a lovely face. I think this line will prove to be popular.

What is it about the supernatural? I used to be addicted to Stephen King books till I found his characters too unsympathetic to bother with.

I think as religion plays less of a role in our everyday lives we search for other routes to satisfy a primeval urge. On Tuesday I went to a friends funeral in a Catholic Church that I had never been in. As I have got older the lure of the church has been stronger. The peace in the buildings, the smell of incense, all help to make you feel secure and safe in a sometimes unsafe world. This seems a bit of a contradiction with my preference of reading matter. Although the modern day vampires seem to be people we have some sympathy with. Who we don't want anything bad to happen to. The immortal hero fighting the bad, be they human or supernatural. Humankind has always needed a being to believe in. Someone who they feel will keep them safe. Are Edward, Bill and Lestat the morality keepers? For those of us who are past the "Once upon a time" and "They live happily ever after" stories.

Or are they just a good read with a healthy dose of unrealism in them........

falling

2010-01-18T11:36:00.004Z

I am feeling very old, very tired and very fragile. I cannot understand it, 60 is not old nowadays, and with more leisure time I really expected it to be the time of my life. Instead I am dosed up with painkillers and feeling sorry for myself. How did it come to this?

On Saturday as I was walking back from the paper shop, I suddenly found myself flat on my face. Rather like the petunia in Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, I found myself thinking "Not again". The last time I found myself in that position was when I tripped and broke my arm. At least then there was an excuse for it - broken concrete. This time I don't remember tripping on anything. There was no snow or ice, and although the road is not perfect I could see no defect that would have caused the tumble. It was raining quite heavily, but even I can usually manage to stay upright thought the rain drops.

Of course my first thought was, "What have I done this time?" Were there any more broken bones? Fortunately not. I did however scrap my left knee, there is quite a bruise there now, and bang my right elbow. What is is about my elbow that seems to come in contact with the floor before the rest of me? This of course meant pain in both arms as the old broken one is still more painful than it should be after nearly 2 years. Add to that the pain in my leg and I wondered if it would just be easier to shoot me there and then.

Luckily I was nearly home, so stumbled in and checked the damage. My clothes were wet and dirty and pain shot through my arms and leg with each movement. So took some painkillers and went to rest. This was very frustrating as I had just restarted on the horse latch hook cushion and found I was unable to continue.

Today I should have been at aqua, but have cancelled it due to the pain. But also I am suffering a lack of confidence on my feet. This is bad news as I cannot stay off them forever. I need to go to Tescos and get some milk and fruit. Suddenly my head is full of images of my laying face down in a busy supermarket.

Time to give myself a good talking to and get out there. I just hope my feet behave themselves. After all I have been walking, or maybe shuffling around the house for 2 days and have managed to stay upright. Why should today be any different?

Finished

2010-01-15T08:22:00.003Z

The neckwarmer has been finished. I used Stylecraft Life yarn in DK and it was a dream to work with.

More bread has been baked and the chunky cardi finished.

In between I have been reading Breaking Dawn by Stephenie Meyer. The 4th in the Twilight series. I love them, though I was disappointed with the Twilight film as Edward did not seem to be as I imagined him, nor Bella. So I don't think I will bother with the new film and just enjoy reading the books. I never learn, I usually find films so disappointing after reading a book, so its my own fault.

Yesterday I went to the florist to order flowers for a funeral. This is the first time that I have done this for some time, as the usual form now seems to be donations to good causes. Although I cannot fault this sentiment, I do find that funerals with no flowers rather sad affairs - errr, all funerals are sad, but you know what I mean? When our Dad died, my sister and I spent a lot of money on the floral tribute. Our reasoning was that this was the last present we could buy him. No more christmas or birthday presents. Maybe in a way showing how much we loved him. Many years ago when my brother died aged 19, our mother decided there would be no flowers. It was heartbreaking, especially as she only wanted family at the funeral. Len was 19 years old and if felt like he had lived those few short years and his passing seemed to show he had no friends to mourn him. Which was not true. So although I always follow the families wishes and will donate to their causes, I am so pleased when I know there are going to be flowers at the funeral on Tuesday.

Just another day

2010-01-11T08:15:00.002Z

I worked last night, only doing 2 sleeps a month, but its great being back in the swing of things again. I know I am back there cos Steve, the boss, swore at me. At least he noticed me. When I first started there I used to feel as if I was invisible. Steve would walk in and say who is here today. I would say I was there. "But who is here", he would repeat. He later confessed that he did not think I would last 5 minutes in the job. So it is with great satisfaction that after a year I am still there, and not only being noticed, but sworn at too. It is strange how these little things convey so much. One of the residents was wearing the hat I made him for christmas. Steve says "I bet that f****** Paula made that". Its only jealousy cos I didn't make him anything. Just you wait Steve till you see what I have got in mind for you:)

Its raining and usually I would hate the rain. But is has washed away nearly all the snow from round here. The garden is a mess and everything looks dead. Maybe when the sun eventually shines again, it will be like me and buck up.

The only good thing is that the weather makes it easier to get on with unfinished projects, and after aqua this morning I am full of good intentions. I will make another loaf of bread and pick up my knitting needles. Does life get any better than this?

Breadmaker

2010-01-09T12:06:00.003Z

I love home made bread, but having been finding it harder to make with all that kneading and mixing. My neck and shoulders have been complaining loudly. It was time to do something about it. I have been looking around at breadmakers and trying to decide if it would end up as another unused gadget cluttering up the kitchen. Then Aldi's got some in for the bargain price of £29.95. I decided to take the plunge. My first loaf has turned out better than I expected. It is far lighter in texture than my hand made ones and has a lovely crisp crust that I like. The taste was gorgeous and I can see that I will be using this a lot.

It has a jam making facility too, and I will be trying that out as well. Especially if it does away with the preserving pan and jam thermometer. Though I think I will still bake cakes in the traditional way even though it says I can do them too.

Now I just need to find a good bread making book with hints and tips as well as recipes. Ebay here I come.

Guilty secret

2010-01-06T13:51:00.007Z

I have a guilty secret, or rather more of an addiction. I cannot stop buying magazines. Womens magazines, puzzle magazines and cross stitch magazines, that I buy mostly for the free kits on the front, then rarely make them. I try to control the urge as it gets rather expensive. Not to mention taking up a lot of room. But the worst are the knitting magazines. I cannot resist them. The trouble is I buy them and put them aside for later, but later does not always come. Below are a pile of mags. that I am waiting to read. I keep promising myself I will read them soon, though I know I will find new projects that I want to start on straight away, that will probably join my stack of unfinished projects. This is a neck warmer started just before christmas as a present for someone. Hopefully this will be finished this week.

The chunky cardigan I knew would be so useful in the cold weather. Also using up a load of odd yarn from my stash. I have a couple of inches on the sleeves to finish. This may be finished before the snow disappears.

2 tapestries I bought knowing I wanted to do them. Not even started.

2 years ago I started on this horse latch hook cushion cover for a friends birthday in October. With any luck she will get it this coming October - after all I have 9 months to finish it.

This is an elephant rug started about 10 years ago. I am unsure why this was put aside, and am even more unsure when it will be finished. Its been waiting so long that the masking tape has dried out and come off.

From the days when I actually used to start things, and finish them. 2 rose cushion covers.

Unfinished projects

2010-01-06T07:08:00.003Z

It looks pretty but I am so bored with the snow now.

I made myself an achievable New Years resolution - to finish off projects started in 2009. So far I have completed 2. Finishing off the machine knit cardi, and altering a pair of trousers.

I wonder what will happen to the projects I started over a year ago. But am trying to promise myself that nothing new will be started until I have finished the old. Even if it means scrapping it and starting again.

What is the oldest unfinished project in your stash? I have a latch hook rug started about 10 years ago, not to mention numerous cross stitch projects. How long will it take to complete them?

WITHERNSEA TIMES - paulacoom

2010-01-03T08:15:00.000Z

WITHERNSEA TIMES - paulacoom

A Breath of fresh air

2009-12-31T11:50:00.006Z

I thought I needed some fresh air, and as I only live a few hundred yards from the beach, where better to wander. The wind was bitterly cold even though the sun was trying to shine. Not that anyone else was stupid enough to be out there.

changing a tyre the old fashioned way

2009-12-30T09:48:00.003Z

Threshing Day

2009-12-28T04:47:00.010Z

Every year Bernard Blashill, aka The Welwick Relic, raises thousands of pounds for charity. His farm hosts an annual Heritage Weekend, the Easington Bike Ride and numerous auctions to name but a few. Yesterday it was the Christmas threshing day. Bernard and a group of friends keep alive these old farming traditions and raise money for good causes. The money is then handed over to the charities at special events in the local village hall. Even then we have an auction and raffle to raise even more money.

This is a 1953 tractor, nearly as old as I am and in perfect working order.

Wheel hooping - first build a fire and heat up a metal "tyre".

Put the heated tyre onto a wooden wheel.

Douse it in cold water before it burns the wheel.

Leave to cool down.

The fields were muddy But the atmosphere was warm. I was handing out cups of soup and mince pies.

2009-12-28T04:47:00.001Z

Winter wonderland

2009-12-20T10:19:00.003Z

Bras for swimming

2009-12-20T07:47:00.003Z

Where did that come from? Its ok that is a rhetorical question.

I have survived a night at work, though I did spend most of yesterday sleeping. I am so pleased it was a one off, as I do not think I could go back to doing this regularly. My bodyclock thinks the dark hours are for sleeping and the light hours for being up and doing. And my mind agrees.

It was good to have my aqua lesson in the morning which made me tired enough to have a couple of hours sleep before work. I am so pleased that I am still managing to do 3 lessons a week, even if sometimes its hard to get there. But I would not have missed Fridays for the world. Our instructor, Fiona, has been banging on about us wearing sports bras in the pool. As she says its still exercise and we should still protect our bodies. One of the ladies suggested we all wore our bras on top of our swimming costumes, nearly every bra was white while our costumes are black or dark blue. So you can imagine the sight of 25 ladies of a certain age getting into the pool with our undergarments on top of our swim wear. Fiona took one look at us and burst into laughter. Our lessons are always fun, if hard work. But Fridays lesson was even more so, especially when Fiona removed her own bra and put it on top of her t shirt. Although it was fun, Fiona had made a serious point. Who would have thought that you had to wear a bra in the pool. I have just brought myself a black sports bra and will be wearing it at all the classes - though it will remain firmly under my costume in future.

As the snow means I will not be going anywhere today, I think I will see if I can get some knitting done. I am so close to finishing the hand knit cardi made from some of my stash, and it will be so cosy in this weather. I really must dust off my needles and crack on.