Saturday Toddle...

 

The unsual sight of sunshine today brought out the locals into the park.  The institue of Tier 4 and many warnings re the increase in the virus in this locale has led to a much stricter use of the six feet distancing on the whole.  So much so that the woman walking in front of me in the park left 60 feet between her and the dog walker ahead!  Once near the shops this lessened considerably I noticed.  In Iceland distancing was not easy and some ignored the need.  (I only wanted bread, some fool had eaten all mine!)

 

With lockdown and gray misty weather not much has happened anywhere.  The world is in a slow routine, blown apart only by those marching to oppose lockdown and mask wearing, some blocking nursing staff from entering hospitals, and of course those who think they will never catch it.  The young, desparate to enjoy life, also take risks under the delusion it will not hit them, the latest mutant version certainly does.  

I see no change in my exciting life.  Out today, the first time in three days, only because the sun shone.  Some I know are becoming institutionalised by remaining indoors, they might never walk outside again!  

 

With no news worth mentioning, it's all Covid deaths, people protesting about wearing masks, and Boris and co hiding.  Occasional comment re what Donald will do next, he has several large gathering soon, and hopefully he will be declared insane before then.  Nothing to do but watch all the football that is on today.  I suppose I can cope with that...

 

Thursday Blether

 

It has not taken the Tories long to respond to last nights outrages in the USA.  Boris (who once suggested the Nobel Peace Prize for Donald) offered a mumbling statement condemning violence, possibly written by Donald.  Priti Patel managed not to condemn Donald and muttered away, Michael Gove, Donalds friend, said nothing, Rees-Mogg, once delighted to work with Donald, has not posted on his Twitter feed, possibly he has not seen the news.  At best the insurrection is played down, while most laugh and cheer off camera and hope it happens here also.

A Welsh Tory suggested that those opposing Brexit could riot in such manner, on Twitter, Unionists, possibly Tory members, are claiming similar actions will occur if Scotland seeks independence, others claim SNP independence seekers will behave this way (make up your mind).   

It is clear to all, bar those who thought this was a genuine revolution under way, that Trump has done this just to keep a grasp of power.  When he loses power he can then be brought to account for his crimes, mostly dating back to long before 2016.  No wonder he lies in a desparate manner.

Soon Boris it will be your turn surely?

 

 

'Lock Down' will have an effect similar to the last ones.  My hair needs cut, this may not happen until March, Priti Patel wishes people to be ordered off the streets by Police, fined if they do not obey, and shops will run out of so many things under Brexit that soon panic buying will return.  

I have avoided going out, not that I wished to go anywhere, but in the dark, before 7:30 I wandered round to Tesco, coughing all the way and scaring several people heading for work as I passed.  This gave me a laugh and forced them to walk well over 6 feet away from me.  The early morning cough is just that, but they don't know!

Once again I thought I am here choosing bread, once more I collect milk, not the out of date stuff going cheap, once more I ransack the same shelves as before, almost always choosing the same items with only an occasional bright experiment attempted.  

When at school I was jealous of those wandering the streets while I was locked up not learning anything.  It seemed good to be outside wandering to and fro whenever you liked, I looked forward to the time I could join them.  However, I was disappointed greatly to discover that such freedom as I had imagined was brief if it actually existed, work, wages and a hundred other things imprison all of us daily.  

When young life is bright, the future tempts with excitement and pleasures, travel, strange places, new temptations, new pleasures, new people, and adventure moulded to the individuals needs, or so I thought.  Reality was not the same.  Being an adult did not bring much bar wondering what was for tea that night?  What shall I eat tomorrow?  Where can I buy cheap the required clothes?  And so on.  Living in London people spoke of the many wonderful places to visit, the shows to see, the stars, the pleasures available, yes indeed some were tasted, however, travel across London takes time, pleasures are expensive, work tiring and most do not spend their time enjoying the city, they are too busy just living.

Then, suddenly, one day you are a grandfather.  Not that you are a grandfather, it is just that you are old!  In your mind you are 25, in the body 30 years have been added.  The need for distant pleasures fades somewhat, those you once laughed at sitting, possibly in the car, staring out at sea, you no longer laugh at because you are one of them, chomping on sandwiches while staring at the sea suddenly is fun.  The bright lights are faded in your eyes, the joys empty, the pleasures too expensive and not worth much.  Rather the smile of a child in the family, a dogs wagging tail or a cat sitting on the laptop appear more interesting and the joy longer lasting.

This of course does not mean you are dead!  Indeed no, programmes like 'Last of the Summer Wine' which many disliked as the humour was stinted, reflect many a gang of elderly statesmen who, in one way or another, behave in similar style.  The potential for trouble, as any wife will inform you, from the men seeking excitement can suddenly appear.  Those who volunteer in some capacity will always find ways to have fun.  Before the virus many groups aimed at the elderly abounded for those who cared to try them, not me, and aged adventure could be attended to.  Especially if there were three or four silly men involved.  Most such men must be bored now.

 

Book: 'Edinburgh at War'

 

 

I have just finished the first book of the year, 'Edinburgh at War,' by Craig Armstrong.  

In spite of being brought up in Edinburgh after the war (long after) I had little knowledge of events that occurred there during seven long years of service.  Obviously there were little stories that leaked out, tales of woe or funny situations, occasional photographs and the tales my dad offered re his wartime service.  However no details as such of the changes that occurred during this time.  This book goes a long way to answering the questions I was to stupid to consider asking.

Taking the war year by year the author offers tales from the media of what events appeared important, the building of defences, the formation of defence forces, in fire and medical areas, the rise of the Home Guard, and the results of enemy action.

All these things changed as the war passed.  Here we read of the grumbles, early was confusions re sirens and blackout, the council (Corporation actually at this time) action or lack off, and of course the cost of war.  Men in action if France, Dunkirk, Middle East, Far East, and once again in France and Germany.  Actions in the air, the first attacks from the air were on shipping in the Firth of Forth, the reaction to this, other bombing raids, those killed, damage caused.  Action at sea, in the air and on land involved men from this area, and all the while industry boomed making war equipment, Leith docks created many a vessel for action.  

Not surprisingly much attention is given to celebrations at wars end and royal visits.  While quaint in some eyes these reports speak of the attitudes of the day, reflected in many who were children at the time, the language used in the reports take us into the time, for those like me much is recognisable and other aspects explain the attitudes of parents for many years.

Simple things remained, the siren gave out the 'all clear' once or twice a year just to test them I suppose, treats offered kids in war, such as a rhubarb stick with some sugar, was current when we were kids also.  'Make do and mend' remained throughout the 50s and well into the 60's, in this house it remains still!   

 

I learned a great deal from this book, and it comes with relevant photogrpahs which can only help.  I recommend it to one and all.   

'Pen and Sword Books' cover many other towns and cities in this series, from Aberdeen to London, including 'Cardiff and the Valleys.'

Nothing to Say...

 

Normal Saturday

 

 

Life is returning to normal.  The holiday for most is over, Monday brings a return to the dismal norm for England and Wales, Scotland however will return on Tuesday as always, Monday being a compensation for Jan 2nd being a Saturday.

A lazy day.

Nothing to do but watch football and sleep, often during the game.

In the real world the hospitals are overflowing and medical staff are working all the hours of the day.  Naturally, both the Prime Minister and the Health Secretary have disappeared. 

Outside St Thomas's Hospital, where many are in the ICU fighting to the death Covid 19, a crowd gathers claiming 'The Virus is a hoax!'  Many, right wingers, Tories and Trump followers, spend time on Twitter and elsewhere pushing this evil lie.  Who pays for them?  What are they getting for this lie?  Why are they not stopped?  Could it be Brexit has allowed these people to step up their opposition to the NHS and begin the foul introduction of the disgusting US style insurance based health system?  This

seems to me to be the underlying intention.  These people will stop at nothing to destroy the NHS. 

We must not let them.

 

Happy New Year 2021

 

      Happy New Year

         From an old Grouse. 

 

          Life will go on, live it carefully

          All the best to you and yours 

 

Hogmanay 2020

 

 

Hogmanay, as you know, is not New Year!

Hogmanay is the day before the New Year, it remains Hogmanay until midnight on the 31st and at the first 'dong' of the midnight chime the New Year has begun.  Out side of the Free World people these days wish one another a Happy New Year days in advance of the time.  Typical English, never get anything right.  

In oor hoose, Hogmanay was merely the time to gather the family and occasional friend, ensure everything was ready, piles of drinks for young and old, it was the only time my folks drank and my folks did not get drunk.  Although I have just remembered my sisters giving mum 'Brandy & Babycham' one year and had her giggling all night over nothing.  Dad was wary of drink, in spite of twice being in the army, his dad had been too accustomed to the beer and lost jobs several times because of this.  Dad had not forgotten his mothers warnings.  Mind you, mum always said she liked a drink anyway, that is where Granddad and her first met, in a pub!

After midnight, we await the first foot.  This tall, dark, handsome person (sorry I am unavailable) will be the 'first foot,' and bring you good luck.  He will also bring coal, to ensure you are warm, Black Bun and whisky to ensure you are fed.  I accidentally stepped out one year and back in, thus being our 'first foot.'  "You will not bring us luck!" was the cry - and they were right!  

It is also important to clean the house, this dates back to the idea of clearing out the devil before the new year comes.  Such superstitions are nonsense so I just no longer clean up before New Year.  No change there!

 

Sadly, while the 'Viking' whisky arrived the Black Bun has been unobtainable this year, another result of Covid.  However, while Tesco Christmas Cake sits in for Black Bun my niece sent, by 'Hermes' messenger no less, one small forgotten portion of my Christmas, a 'Lump  of Coal' soap!  She knows how I live!  Noticeable that he was an Englishman.  These days unemployment is forcing men to work for 'Hermes' and other delivery vans, the Romanians and Bulgarians will not be best pleased. 

Following Dave's command to get out I wandered, frozen, across the frost covered park this morning, my fingers nipping in the cold air.  Very New Year weather.  We are lucky, up north a couple of inches of snow lies all around, endangering folks like me and other sensible ones who hate the cold, slippery stuff.  

Almost all England is now Tier 4, the rest will follow soon, and 'Lock Down' after that, so the town was quiet with one or two awaiting entrance at Banks and the like.  I actually entered the Bank, when the young lady freezing on guard let me, to make use of a machine and insert a cheque given at Christmas. This is about the only time I enter this bank, the 'Hole in the Wall' machine (invented by a Scotsman) does the job for me usually.

Few people around, though some queued at Tesco as it is closed tomorrow, Sainsburys will be open. Usually one opens while the other closes at such times.  Nothing apart from Muslim corner shops will open in Scotland tomorrow!   I hobbled home, picked up the mail struggled up the stairs, all Dave's fault, and soon after was fast asleep.  All this exercise at years end, it's tiring.

 

This year has been bad for us all.  I started with that cold that began in December, lasted until April come May and then 'Lock Down' had begun.  On top of this there was the laptop explosion, the trouble with replacements, the trouble with this one and eventually some form of peace.  Once all began to settle the washing machine went bang, well, 'crack' actually.  So in the end all the money I saved by buying less during 'Lock Down,' the money saved by not going anywhere and spending on shiney things was all lost on both Christmas, the Laptop and the new washing machine.  Good job I'm not one to complain!  

The church is once again closed up for the duration, people with sense are in fear of the virus, and most now put their hopes in this vaccine, if it works.  However, if it works it is unlikely this government in England will be able to distribute it to those in need properly, already the second dose has been postponed, causing much trouble for surgeries.  

For me the year ends well, Jesus has made it clear I must be in St Paul's, this means they may not be happy of course, and the future with him looks bright, this usually means someone will oppose us, Halleluiah!  

May you all have a better year next year...

 

Moon Wednesday

 

This 'impressionist' capture of the moon (by 'impressionist' I mean 'blurred.') Is the only photo today.  Apart from a run to a busy Tesco, never go near at lunchtime, for milk I have not had the energy today to do anything.  All the overeating has caught up with me.  The half stone I had lost has halved and weight is gaining on me, not that the Christmas cake had anything to do with that, it was only a small one, well, both of them were, but too much of the chicken has affected me.

Many are back at work yet the county is quiet.  Most remain indoors, but will they do so next week when almost normal life returns?  I think my neighbours are working but many have closed down for the week.  

 

This scruffy creature is the man responsible for the new 'Deal' which from January 1st will make this nation poorer.  No PM since Walpole has gone out of his way to make the country impoverished rather than wealthier than this man.  All this for his ego, all this just to be PM!  This liar, this fraud, this cheat has destroyed the lives of millions by his selfish gain.  I look forward to Scotland's coming independence, to Northern Ireland joining the Republic, and Boris running (with his cash) for the nearest fridge in which to hide.

The Commons voted for the Deal like Lemmings going over the cliff by 521 to 73.  Labour, or 'Tory 2' as they ought to be called, went along with their gangster pals and fell at Boris's feet.  No matter that opposing the Deal meant little, they ought to have stood up against it.  One day they will have a Leader, One day they will have a policy.

 

 

 

Bored or Confused?

Amazing as it is, I am bored.

Yes, I may have 12 books to read but I am not in the book reading mood.  I wish to go outside and wander in the sunshine, except there is no sunshine, again!  A wander today would only be over the usual paths anyway.  And this bores me.  I have been over them countless times and it is an empty town with few highlights missed.  There is nothing new in this small town, nothing new to photograph, nothing new to see bar continuing road works and a needless white elephant building erection, nothing that is not boring!

Some people like Suza can wander along the same paths and fine many differing photographs and sights.  Some can find sunshine at Christmas!  Here, lacking transport, lacking a bus service just now because of Tier 4, here we can only dawdle around the same old places, freezing to death and being bored by it all.

Now I do not wish any crazy adventures to appear, although having a nice building fire, attempted murder/bank robbery or such would create interest.  Instead we have the traffic to Sainsburys, the freezing postman telling me the man in the Frame next to him has Covid (I do not expect to see him again this year) and an occasional dog walker passing by.  A boring place, not made exciting by doing the Laundry, although it appears my neighbours were in so maybe it excited them?  The week between Christmas and New Year is boring when Tier 4 traps us all indoors.  

However, reading Twitter I see how important this is!

This morning Twitter was stuffed with Medics of various types demanding help from this government, lack of equipment, lack of staff, and a huge increase in Covid patients.  Instead some media emphasis the emergency 'Nightingale Hospital' is being closed.  It is closing because this was another balloon from Boris, a new hospital but no-one to staff it!!!  Now all NHS are overburdened and Boris has disappeared.  No change there!

 

Bored?  Confused now.  One of my delightful, intelligent, talented nieces has decided to take a family photograph and have it made into a Jig-saw for me.  This sounds a clever idea, and in truth it really is clever.  However, the main colour is dark, little is light, and as it concerns several people posing before the launch of the Queen Mary in 1936, once she had been fitted out, it has awkward bits all around.

She thinks she is clever, and indeed she is, however, I am beginning to have somewhat rougher thoughts concerning her now.  In my mind jig-saws are things I last got occupied with back in the 70's, and not for long then. I have not forgotten the tricks to doing them, find the corners, look for the edges, but I am beginning to believe she has removed a corner and hidden some edges!  Anyway, it has been put aside for feeding time.  I will finish it tomorrow...

 

The Dankness...

 

A Monday holiday as Boxing Day was Saturday.  The mist has hung around all day, though some sun appeared.  Dankness now reigns.  The thin covering of snow like frost that greeted us this morning may return tonight.  Thankfully, here in the 'warmest part of the country' we avoid the worst.  

That sums up today.

The world appears stunned that it must endure another day off.  A few dawdle across the park, a few dogs sniff and bark, a few new bikes appear, and a few new scooters, boots and hats also.  All prized assests, at least until familiarity breeds contempt.  Shiny things do not remain shiny for ever.  

So, to find sunshine I look at US Railways on 'Virtual Raifan.'  Naturally, the first one was in Canada and the snow already three inches deep!  Tehachapi, California, 'where the sun always shines,'  was suffering a monsoon, and Chehalis, Washington State was covered in mist, again.  Maybe it is not so bad here after all?

This appeared on Twitter the other day.  I cannot prove the facts offered, I do not recall who published this, however I did think it looked accurate...

How interesting that the 'free press' in the UK is considered less believable than that found in Albania, Ireland, Turkey or North Macedonia!  I do not see Russia on there, maybe there is a reason?  

This tells us how much we need a 'free press,' as well as indicating some nations may trust their press and not notice the failings?  Social media, with all the 'fake news,' has taken the place for many.  What is on offer there may be more attractive, more honest or indeed more futile, however, that is where young folks find news.

I wonder if Rupert Murdoch owns papers in North Macedonia?

Boxing Day 2020

 

 

Rising late into a subdued world it did not take me long to realise that in spite of a crammed freezer, in spite of a full fridge, in spite of cupboards groaning I was about to run out of bread!  After a bacon sandwich for breakfast, all I could cope with, I began to wonder should I bother with bread.  Common sense however said otherwise.  By lunchtime I joined the trickle of people in Sainsburys for bread.  It always surprises me just how many folk fill a trolley on Boxing Day?  There were a few of those giving it a try.  Most were like myself, filling the gaps created from yesterday or finding the forgotten bread and milk.

The Christmas cheer was not much in evidence, an occasional nod from a glum passerby, a greeting, a grunt, but so many look the other way, not joyful, cheery or willing to meet people.  The recent incomers are mostly responsible for this, London overspill you see, however many are suffering, covid, family problems, illness, loneliness or maybe they are just miserable gits?   Who can tell, but it is clear less folks greet one another these days than did 20 years ago.  As I walked back across the near deserted park, a few taking a walk, far from others, it was clear most had remained indoors.  Covid has had an effect both yesterday and today.

 

I ate quite a large plateful yesterday, followed by a reasonable sized Belgian chocolate Christmas pudding, with a glass of 'Highland Park Viking whisky' that  my secret admirer sent me.  Today I made soup with the chicken bones, and I must say it is the best I have made for a while.  The butchers chickens are better fed than Tesco's.  I was also forced to eat more chicken and other bits.  I am now looking at the Christmas cake while sipping gin and blackcurrent that was donated by another admirer.  Sometimes I am glad these admirers live far away and far apart!  

Today phone calls and emails replace the bother of having people around to annoy me while watching football, (we won 5-3 by the way).  I wonder about a family gathering up north (they are not supposed to have the whole lot together for one day, though they all enjoyed it) I'm sure there was more than six there, but I am not surprised that the younger element have gone off today to find a MacDonalds! Anyway, as the wind rises and begins to howl through the cracks in the window frame, the rain lashes the glass and my feet rest on the radiator I take no heed as I now have several books to read, all good ones, with more on the way.  I also discovered a strange emotional response, humility.  Looking at what I had been given I felt realy humble and emotional, as I do not deserve all that I have been given.  I really don't deserve this family or these friends.

 

Anyway, remember this...

 

 

Christmas Day 2020

While they were in Bethlehem, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.

 

Merry Christmas to one and all.

 

 

 

Christmas Eve 2020

The dreichness lessened for a while today tempting me to cross the park to seek what dim sunshine was available.  Leaping in and out of the clouds the sun tried to brighten the place, which was hard as the clouds all came from the north, driven by a bitter wind.  

Nice however, to see the world outside of Tesco, but not so nice when the cold wind crashes through the cracks in the window frames.  Walking into it across the park was great fun if you are preparing for an Arctic adventure, not so good if you just wish to see daylight.  

Christmas cheer enabled one or two to acknowledge you were alive, but not all.  A nod here, a glance there, was all the cheer available.  There again most were wrapped up in winter outfits, with face masks on, as they had been at the shops 'Click & Collect' doors.  

Argos have been doing OK in spite of LockDown.  There were several freezing poutside awaiting permission from the Stasi to enter.  One or two other shops had similar administrations ongoing.  However, that said the streets were comparatively empty.  Traffic slow, supermarkets reasonably busy but most following Tier 4 orders.

All freezing cold.

 

Christmas joy is found in the media also.  Not just the needless screaming empty headlines lying about Boris and his so-called 'Deal,' but the routine joy of someone who dies from a sudden heart attack, the child in hospital, the robbery, the mugging, the drunks in cars and so on.  Today, the thing to do if you get sick is report this in the tabloids.  Why anyone whould wish to know you are sick, knocked-down/ill/having a fit/ pregnant/dead, I am not sure as most folk have never heard of you before and will have forgotten you by tonight.  However, there it is, any skin disease can be advertised in the paper, with picture, any illness, anything in fact bar news!   

Not that the days headlines are news.  The media acclaim Boris when it would be better hanging him upside down from a lamppost!  Brexiteers rejoice, except for the pouting ERG ones who shout 'Traitor' because he has not satisfied them.  We all know who the 'traitors' are!

One day soon however all these papers will be dead and gone, news will come digitally, and these media will not be missed.

Dreich Day

 

 

Dreich Day indeed.

It poured this morning, encouraaging grass to grow and weeds to sprout.  Suddenly, in spite of the weather forecast, it stopped when it ought to have been pouring down.  So I visited Tesco for the last time, met a grumpy staff member and a happy manager, stumbled home with my loot, mostly for others rather than myself, and settled down to await the postman.

Naturally, when he came he was in Teir 4 attitude and refused to ring the bell in case he catches a virus from it.  He must have knocked but I canny hear that, even though I was looking for him!  So while one measly routine letter arrives my neices expensive parcel has gone back and will not be re-delivered until Tuesday!  Bah!  He will hear about this!   (The word 'expensive' is not meant to be taken literally)

 

 

The Dreich day is not improved watching that Mr Hancock placing more people in Teir 4 while not acknowledging his guilt.  The Tories have been lying about the number of Lorris awaiting Ferries, only 170 one claimed, while 1500 others claimed where blocking the roads.  Some say several thousand now lie full of rotting perishables near Dover.  

What exactly are the benefits of Brexit...?

Freezer Foods

 

I've never had a freezer like this before, packed to the gunnels (whatever they are) with meat!  The ageing freezer has been full but usually with routine things, often not doing what they say they will do on the packet.  I especially like the lie 'Serves Two,' when there is barely enough for one.  Possibly the £50,000 a year marketing junior who scribbles this is a 6 stone lassie who considers a fish finger 'filling.'  Such 'meals' I have tried and remain convinced they would feed people if they added food to them.  However, for me the next few days feeding looks quite good, if I remember to take things from the freezer of course.

Early this morning I joined the queue at the butchers, one of the few shops open and very busy, where the minted lamb chops and the Xmas chicken, the far to many sausages, were joined by a pack of bacon bought to avoid disruption after December 31st when the Danish bacon no longer arrives.

Then she asks for the cash!

I fainted!

However, Now I have cut it up, bagged it all, filled the freezer and feel guilty in having all this when others have so little.  I know what it is like to have nothing in the freezer bar a bag of chips and some mince, so guilt at my enormous chow wagon upsets me.   

I might get more guilt from that bottle of rum later...

 

Christmas is going to be hard this year for many.  Numbers see their family only at Yuletide and naturally this will not happen for the majority now, though some will break the rules.  A lot of older types who cannot make use of a laptop and who fail to comprehend 'Zoom' for instance (Good on them I say) along with many who understand such things but cannot afford to possess one may well find Christmas Day hard with little means of contact.  

In fact the local Salvation Army used to do Christmas Day dinners for such as wanted them but that will not be possible now.  No way they can get together, I suspect some will be sorry about that.  

Winter Solstice and Closed Ports

BBC

 

At last the 'shortest day!'

Naturally it is wet, chilly, dank, dreich and not improving the well-being of those venturing out to what few shops remain open in Tier 4 Land.  Cars splash along the street, people take great steps to avoid one another as well as the cars heading for large puddles, and blessings abound with the short-term employed in the checkouts. 

Such a happy day for from tomorrow the nights get shorter the days longer and Spring is just around the corner.  Sunshine, blue skies, bright days and lockdown for all!  

And Brexit poverty on top for us all!

I just canny wait for that...

 

 

It is interesting to see how many nations are no longer wishing to accept travellers from the 'English Free State.'  I read that 40 or so countries have banned contact, France has closed the Dover crossing, and the only ones to fly out are the Tory Brexiteer cheerleaders who have ceased claiming the virus is a hoax and the vaccine does not work for a week or two having escaped to their money in the Cayman Islands or somewhere.  I am sure they will not be missed but I feel for the servants they look down upon in foreign lands.

This is a taste of Brexit to come.  With inadequate customs staff, computer systems not ready, lack of knowledge of paperwork required, hundreds of miles of lorries carrying decaying foodstuffs one way or the other, and overworked and short staffed employees attempting to counter the virus while at work it looks like a jolly old Christmas at the ports.  

I empathise with companies that still do not understand what to do.  Information is lacking because nobody knows what to do anywhere.  Thousands of pieces of paper required to export, but what papers?  Will the customs know any better?  What will the French understand?  

My nephew is glad he no longer drives big lorries, though he never went abroad.  It is a hard life on the road, especially if you only speak Romanian!

 

Oxiana and Laundry...

 

I managed to finish a book!  No, not one of the colouring in ones, an actual book. During 'Lock Down' I expected to read all the books in the pile, I failed.  Indeed, I hardly picked one up, at times there was no incentive to read, nothing tasted and I just could net get into any off them.  Eventually, having been forced by 'Waterstones' to buy to keep my voucher points I bought three.  Even more eventually I began to read.  

I bought this because it was a travel book from the past.  In fact it covers this man Robert Byron, no relation to the other one, on his trip across Persia and Afghanistan and Turkestan in his quest to investigate ancient Islamic architecture during the winter of 1933/34.  Quite why he would choose to visit a place with towering mountains during the winter months I fail to understand. It is to be expected at such seasons that roads will be blocked by snow or landslip so why try? However, when we reflect on his Eton Schooling we will begin to understand that acting like a normal individual was not his way.  

Byron had travelled widely before this book visiting the Soviet Union, India and elsewhere and he had published several books, some of which are still available.

The book is formed from the diary he kept at the time, and the diary form works well in travel books I think.  His usual way is to describe the day, the place where he stays, the food, those with him and then an in depth description of the architecture he finds.  This part I found a wee bit wearing as such descriptions in books do not make clear to the minds eye what is being described.  However, this website offers pictures of many of the sites visited, often with Byron's own photographs as well as a modern colour view.  This site in very helpful in understanding what he is viewing.  The tale then returns to his day, the food, the problems and so on.

Journeying in this region at any time is fraught with many dangers.  Politics, tribesmen, Muslims upset at a heretic in the mosque, are all testing, while food, shelter and breaking down on the road far from help are all trials to be faced.  Illness, when it strikes shows little mercy at a time and place when no NHS exisited.  

Hints of humour, mostly from his dealings with people appear, and a surprising wide variety of  people appear in this book and his determined personality mixed with that of his diplomatic friend Christopher, who occasionally accompanies him, often forces them through difficult situations. 

Being 'British' of class opens the door to the local leaders as they pass, some more friendly than others, this including the Russians who invite the travellers to enjoy a refreshing party which leads to a headache in the morning.  

The book offers a different world from what is found in this region today.

War, politics and individual stubborness have made this part of the world attractive to many and dangerous for most.  It is unlikely a similar journey could be made today.  The road from Tehran to Kabul may offer many intriguing sights for the modern traveler but I wonder would one return?

Robert Byron died in 1941 when the ship in which he travelled was torpedoed off Cape Wrath and his body was not recovered. 

This is a good book, I recommend it.

Late in the evening, well about 5:30 pm the van arrived.  By 6 pm they were on their way. The reviews spoke well of the delivery men and John Lewis's organisations efficiency.  I now agree.  Called by a robotic voice twice to inform me of when they would deliver and by the driver himself when 20 minutes away was impressive.  It was not so efficient in the 80's before an online service and an robotic voice could call.  

A very large young man, I had to look up to him, came in, looked around, said "It's no bother," and began to remove the old machine.  His mate joined him and said, "No bother," and soon they had the old machine out, the new one in, and working!  Paying for them to fit it was a great idea!  

Well-organised, efficient, experienced, and capable, they were indeed friendly and helpful and careful not to leave any mess.  Within 30 minutes they had gone.   

These guys would not finish till around 9 pm in the evening.  Working four long days and having three off is a good idea to me.  I never had the chance to do that but I think it works well, especially when delivering goods and considering the customers work hours.  I was pleased with them, I nearly gave them a tip I was so delighted.

Today I tried the machine, once I began to understand the booklet, and happily it worked OK.  How delightful to be wearing something that does not make dogs noses twich when I pass...

 

Christmas

All this festivity began when a 14 year old lassie received a visit from Gabriel, the angel. Informed she would carry the Christ child she accepted this task but remained somewhat perturbed, as you would. Gods call is never easy, while he young husband accepted his part also neither expected to have to walk 30 miles to deliver the child in a cave used as a stable. A long walk but no way could these two afford a donkey, and anyway, he would have ridden it, not her.

Resting with the child the aroma of sheep from the shepherds who spoke of choirs of angels above must have increased their wonder as to what all this was about. Some time later the Magi arrived, a complete contrast to the shepherds who reflected the lowest in society. How many Magi arrived is unknown though three gifts were left. Three men sitting on camels pointing at a star while carrying a flask of coffee and a pack of sandwiches does not reflect the thousand mile journey from Babylon the men took to find the child. The star, possibly a conjunction of Saturn and another planet, was observed in Babylon and China in 7 BC and again in 5 BC and possibly this was the ‘star’ they saw. These men left precious gifts which was just as well as soon after they were walking again, this time to Egypt. King Herod, a sick man who found paranoia easy to excuse, bumped off all those children under two as soon as he could to ensure his Kingdom was safe.

He then promptly died in 4 BC, unmourned.

With Jesus return expected soon Jesus followers did not spend much time remembering his birth. Just looking to where he was working was more important. Informing the world of his death for their sins, his rising from the dead and the need to turn to him, and the day when we shall all stand before his throne was what was important.

It took many decades before people began to consider Matthew and Luke’s birth accounts of Jesus as worth celebrating. Who decided this first is unclear and many began to dispute the date in the 3^rd century. By 336 AD Christmas was being held on December 25^th, possibly because this was nine months after the ‘Annunciation,’ or perhaps because the Roman Solstice occurred on that date. In truth no-one actually knows the date when Jesus took human form but it was more likely to be between March and May rather than December. Anyway, the shops are busy at this time of year so who wishes to be giving birth then?

Winter in the Northern Hemisphere is a cold, dreary place for many and the winter solstice, the day the nights begin to grow longer, is always welcomed with celebration. I suspect that way back in the days just after the last Ice Age some 10,000 years ago the peoples there knew exactly the date of the solstice and celebrated just as we would. ‘Christmas’ now takes that place for most.

In the British Isles the celebration became a 12 day event, ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas,’ and for a people mostly living a hard life in poverty this was an excuse to party at a time when parties may well have been few. Food and drink began to be taken in great excess especially during the very cold 1500’s.

The Reformation however soon interrupted the enjoyment. The drunkenness, violence and excess led to much bother and the celebration was seen as ‘Papist superstition’ by the growing number of Puritans. Scotland eventually banned this ‘superstition’ in 1640, although under Charles II this was lifted for a time from 1680 until 1690 when it was reimposed. By 1712 the Act was lessened and Christmas once again became the centre of the English winter. None can explain however why the Charles Dickens type Victorian Christmas became so popular. Possibly in England people rejoice in Rickets, poverty and slums? None of these appear on the Victorian Christmas cards I notice. Scotland continued to celebrate New Year rather than Christmas well into the 20^th century. Indeed Christmas Day only became a holiday in 1958 and Boxing day only in 1974. Quite how the Church of Scotland did not notice the feasting and drinking at New Year is not explained.

For many years Christmas has been nothing but a sentimental, commercial exploitation! Christ, his birth, death and resurrection exchanged for an imaginary Santa Claus figure flying through the air on a sled pulled by reindeer, while plastic snowmen are found lit up all around, even in the middle East! I am not convinced it was meant to be like this?

Even the best churches fall for the ‘empty, vain, Christmas.’ Christmas trees, a pagan symbol, worshipped in central and eastern Europe are found in every church. Prince Albert started this and the camp followers of royalty soon decided they had to do the same. No-one questioned the purpose, no-one objected. So now glistening trees drop pine needles into peoples feet in churches everywhere while lights flicker and go out with annoying rapidity, while none question why there is a ‘Fairy’ on the top!

Is this what Christmas should be?

The good side is found where people get the family together again, often the only time bar funerals and weddings. All this is good, presents, food and drink consumed, games played, children excited, punches exchanged (the men are just as bad) and all cannot wait to do it again next year.

Christians remember Jesus came, and look to him coming again, proper churches of course do this every Sunday, and they renew their decision to follow him weekly, indeed daily as they ought.

No Santa required, Jesus presence and forgiveness is enough.

 

Boris, Pies & That Guy on the Internet...

New European

Today saw the last PMQs of the year.  I ignored it.  The report however indicates that whatever the question Boris ignored it and gave an answer that suited him, even if totally irelevant to the question asked.  The PM at PMQs has always had the ability to avoid giving a straight answer, all advantages lie with the sitting PM, the Leader of the Opposition is often floundering against a brick wall.  However, Boris takes this to the obvious conclusion and just bare-faced lied throughout.  Only complimentary points made by 'Arslikan' back benchers get a warm response, though even Boris knows they would stab him in the back if required.  

So it goes on.  I ignore it as this false question time is a waste of time.  With a disorganised opposition unsure of where it is headed, a government heading for a 'No Deal' as ordered by Mr Putin and those money changers, nothing will save the nation from the disaster of Brexit.  Only the Good Lord stepping in will save us and it appears he is allowing this nation the leaders this nation deserves!

Stock up now while you still can!

Murdoch Brothers

Around 5 pm last night I had a call from that nice Mr Murdoch, Graham to his customers, concerning my missing 12 pies.  Apologising for failing to read the order properly and promising to send the missing 12 pies ASAP he had kindly taken the time to call and put things right.

It appears he has only had three Sunday's off in 9 months as 'Lock Down' has increased his sales resulting in wearing him out.  Of course that is his fault, Butchers offering tastless pies do not have this bother! 

This is a reflection of those who have been isolated, had shops shut, and local butchers not local enough for them.  This also reflects on the care of Murdoch Brothers service as people keep re-ordering from them!  Well done to him!

Now to eat...