MERRY CHRISTMAS

I know I've been very spasmodic this past year with blogging but I've done my best and to anyone who may still be checking out my blog (and I know who some of the faithful are) I would like to send you best wishes from Phil and myself (and Candy too of course) for a safe and happy Christmas.

When the new year of 2018 arrives I hope it will treat you all kindly for its whole 365 days.  I will endeavour to stay in touch but I'm making no unbreakable promises.  I am getting a tad old and that is the truth of the matter.

P.S.  My thanks to the lady who telephoned me today to thank me for my blog.  I am sorry I don't know your name but believe you said you live in Pemberton (a beautiful place in WA).

TUNEFUL TUESDAY

Whoops running late with this one so a quick decision as to which I shall choose.  How about Tennessee Ernie Ford with "Shenandoah"?  A beautiful deep voice singing a delightful song and of course it is from YouTube.

THURSDAY THOUGHTS

Firstly, Phil has asked me to say thank you to those of you who wished him a happy birthday.  I think he is still amazed that he has made it this far and says the important thing about his age is that he can still enjoy life and that he is actually here.  I am hoping he will make it to 90 but perhaps one shouldn't look too far ahead.  They do say to be careful of what you wish for.

 CANDY CAT:  Candy has now been with us for over 3 years and she has taken charge and rules the roost.

I will never understand the vagaries of cats and their habits.  For the first year she slept in different places and then took over Phil's bed, sleeping high up the bed in cold weather and at the foot of the bed in summer.   Suddenly, early November this year, she jumped up and went to sleep on my bed and has done so ever since.  Some nights she will wander up to where Phil's head is, look him in the eye as though to say "goodnight" and she is back on my bed.   We are now wondering how long she will keep that up.

She is a cat that always wants to be where we are and in that way seems more like a dog.  I'd always wanted a cat that would jump up and lay on my lap for a while.  I got more than I'd bargained for with Candy.  She will jump on my lap when I sit in my armchair in the lounge but it's not just for a short time; if she had the chance she would stay there for hours.  I don't mind if I'm watching TV but even then one does have to move occasionally and it's playing havoc with my crocheting as she likes to play with the yarn, given half a chance.

Out here in my workroom there is a comfy chair with a cushion on it where Phil while we have a chat about what we have to do, what we'll eat etc.  Some time ago Candy would steal that chair so I decided on another chair and so now Candy has one of her own, complete with cushion.  Not to be satisfied with that I've found her a couple of times recently sleeping in my office chairs which also has a cushion.  I can assure she is told what's what in no uncertain manner.  After all there have to be limited to her power!!!

This is madam on her own chair earlier this week:

Again about my frangipani.   Karen gave me a small one for Mother's Day called Heidi.  It was  single stem about 25cms/9ins high but after I'd had it for some weeks the top began to look not quite right.  Eventually it did rot and I spoke to our gardening chap about it and said it needed to be cut off until it began to 'bleed'.  Out came his secateurs and off came the top in a very clean cut.  On 7th December I took this photo of 3 shoots than had begun to form:

Today when inspecting the plants I found those shoots had grown so much longer and this was the pic I took of them today:

This is I think why so many of us are frangpani fans as you can never be sure just what they will do and I was really astonished at the size of these vey new leaves.  Of course I don't expect it to flower this year but just to have had it survive is what amazes me.

Karen also gave me a Madison White (probably for my birthday).  It was only a small plant but this year has decided to flower.  I have a traditional white but this Madison White has a much smaller, more delicate flower with a really delightful light perfume.  I have lots of other frangipani with flower buds and you can be sure I will show them to you as they flower....so you have been warned.

It would seem the most important things in my life (apart from my children and grandies) are Phil, Candy and my frangipani and definitely in that order.

TUNEFUL TUESDAY

Listening to Akker Bilk playing "Stronger on the Shore" always gives me goose bumps.  I know there are other gifted clarinet players but he is right up there with them.  I hope you will enjoy this rendition. (From YouTube).

MUSICAL MONDAY

Phil and I have always enjoyed the music of Andy Williams (I remember years ago watching the Andy Williams Show on TV) and here he is singing (from Romeo and Juliet) "A Time for Us".
I hope you will enjoy it along with me.  (From YouTube).

THOUGHTS ON THURSDAY

Something that has had Phil and me pondering about of late is all this confusion in Federal Parliament about whether members of parliament are dual citizens or not.  It is to do with a section of our Constitution that says member of Federal Parliament must be Australian citizens.

Two members of the Green Party resigned after they realised they had both been born overseas one in New Zealand and the other in Canada.   Fair enough as legally neither were Australian citizens.  This began a landslide of people quickly checking if they were indeed Aussie citizens as many had parents born overseas which automatically makes them citizens of their father's country of birth.

No my birth mother was born in Australia to Australian born parents although my birth father was born in London. My adopted parents (my legal parents) were both born in London so I am a dual citizen both ways.   I would never consider revoking my English citizenship as I was always in my mind, and proud to be, a British citizen until, in the 1970s, the Labor government decided that was no longer the case and we then needed an Australian passport to travel overseas.  I believe I could have acquired a British passport had I desired to do so as could Phil of course as he was born in England athough he became an Australian citizen back in the 1970s.

Today was the deadline when parliamentarians were supposed to supply proof that they were 100% Aussie citizens by, I thought, presenting their birth certificates and those of their parents and grandparents.  It seems some supplied documents showing they had received confirmation of revoking citizenship of other countries but one side of politics had said this was not sufficient evidence when the other side did it but now their members have done just that...it is all right.

Honestly, don't politicians make you laugh?  Talk about confusion.  Actually Phil and I both feel if their dual citizenship is of a Commonwealth nation then what's the problem.   One can perhaps understand it if the other country involved is not a member of the Commonwealth but......not so.

That's enough of that for now.  Hopefully the same-sex marriage bill will be passed before the end of the year and all this business about citizenship will be too.  The former will delight so many people whereas the latter I am certain will concern very few outside parliament.

By the way I think the injection in my finger has worked to a certain degree.  There is still some swelling and I can't bend it completely but it is much less painful (or are my morphine patches beginning to work?)   Speaking of the patches...I think there is some effect but my stupid back seems to be stopping me walking properly.  I am not complaining.....just mentioning it.

My dear old Phil is now 88 (last Saturday).  No big celebration as part of the family was tied up all weekend but Aimee and Caitlyn came to afternoon tea on Saturday and Karen and her hubby on Sunday afternoon.  Also B was kind enough to replace our 2 smoke alarms which Phil had not been able to do and also changed a kitchen curtain that needed doing.  Phil is OK up a ladder to do ordinary things but not having to look up with his arms above his head.  He reckons it's something to do with getting old.  

I found a birthday card that made Phil laugh...it said  AGE is MIND over MATTER and inside it said "If you don't mind then it doesn't matter".  Phil said he is just so thankful that he is still here to enjoy getting older.

This has been a muddled up post but I'm feeling a bit muddled up right now.  Not sure why but this weather is not helping.   We get 3 or 4 days about 30C (86F) and then a couple in the high 20s and so on.   It is warming up as the next seven days are all forecast to be above 30C with warm nights.  I watch how our eastern state cousins are getting more rain than they want in many places and much cooler weather.  Never mind you can be sure some of our heat will make its way across in a week or so, particularly to South Australia if not beyond.

TUNEFUL TUESDAY

Now for a real blast from the past.  There were some wonderful songs sung during WW2 and this is one I remember very well.  I remember singing them around the piano at home.  Here is the great Vera Lynn singing "The White Cliffs of Dover".  Once again from YouTube.

MUSICAL MONDAY

This is a song I've always really enjoyed and to me there is no better singer to perform it than Johnny Horton.  Here he is singing "North to Alaska" from the film of that name which I also enjoyed many years back.  As usual YouTube was the source for this music.

THOUGHTFUL THURSDAY

I saw a quote the other day saying "Time flies so make the most of what you have".  I've recently realised that our lives are slipping away far too fast and there's not a blind thing we can do about it. Suddenly you find a whole month has gone and you wonder what you have to show for it.  In our case very little which is mainly my fault as, not being able to get around very well, I tend to be a stay at home.

This is a little hard on Phil who is still perfectly capable of walking around, albeit somewhat slower than in days of yore.  He gets away from me to to top up shopping and has his monthly poetry meeting with his two ladies (actually there were 3 on Friday as a stranger turned up unexpectedly.  I told him he is collecting quite a harem!! ) Elaine and Doreen are two lovely ladies in their 70s and the 3 of them get on so well together.  I've met them both and I'm glad for him that he can share his interest in poetry with others of like mind.  I enjoy poetry but not all that much.

All our close friends have slipped off the mortal coil and the few acquaintances we still have live many kilometres away and it's not a lot of fun out on the roads these days.  I still think Phil a very capable driver but he still sticks to the road rules and it seems there are many out there in control of cars now that seem to think they should have total control.  They want to break the law and speed or chat away on their mobile phones with little regard for others who use those roads too.  They actually want you to break the law too.  Incidents of road rage seem to be increasing everywhere and there are so many dreadful crashes that shouldn't or wouldn't happen if everyone took care.

I'm not really complaining but apart from our music and the books we read there's little else that we can do.  Gardening has been out for me for some years and now poor old Phil is finding it a little much for him as well.  Last week we had a wonderful gardener here trying to make our wilderness look a little shipshape and I must admit he did a wonderful job, at some cost though.  I have him now going to do an hour a month in which he thinks he can keep the garden looking tidy which is all we really want.  Fingers crossed this will happen.  Will keep you posted.

Of course I still have my potted frangipani but they are very slow this year which is possibly caused by the weird weather this year.  The one good thing about summer is the fact that the frangipani love it.  Right now I am having to be content just looking at pics of some of mine from last season.  Oh yes, quite exciting....one of my plants has two seed pods and I did nothing to cause it.  No twirling in the flowers etc as one is supposed to do.  If they come to fruition I will give the seeds to my daughter as she is even more frangipani mad than I am and hopefully she will get some nice plants from them. If she happened to get a new type perhaps she could name it after me!!

These are the twin seed pods.  I have to cover them with netting so, if and when the pods split open, the seeds will not be lost.  Wish me luck on this one.  These are last year's leaves which have now fallen off apart from a couple.

TUNEFUL TUESDAY

I may have used this one some time ago but it is a favourite of both mine and Phil's.  It is "Vincent" sung by Don McLean (from YouTube of course).  I have a print of Van Gogh's sunflowers on the wall in our bedroom (it is a painting I have always loved).

MUSICAL MONDAY

I am sure I've mentioned previously that I've always enjoyed the magical voice of Mario Lanza.  I found this one on YouTube and his rendition of "Memories" another song I've always enjoyed.  You can also enjoyed the beautiful pictures shown here.

THOUGHFUL THURSDAY

I think you already know I stopped blogging as we never go anywhere or do anything of interest to others.  I was thinking about this the other day and realised although we always spend time with family on birthdays, at Christmas, Easter on M/Day and F/Day and this year for our 50th W/aniversary nearly all our other outings are connected in some way with the medical fraternity.

This has been a very medical year for me including eyes, ears, teeth, skin, joints etc etc.  I know one's health is of little interest to anyone other than whose health it is but just to give you an idea of how it dominates one's life in old age.  I am going to relate to you some of what has been happening this year.  You don't have to read it but it will help me to cope with all that has been happening to me.

Skin:  We see our dermatologist annually and he often zaps little spots he doesn't like the look of. This year, just to be different, I had two little skin cancers removed.  The one just in front of my left ear was a basal cell carcinoma and they are usually pretty harmless but the one on the outside of my left foot was a squamous cell carcinoma and they can turn nasty if not treated in time.  Fortunately our wonderful Jonathon got it all (the margins were clear as they put it).

Eyes:  Saw the eye specialist who said my eyes are in pretty good condition and he will see me in a couple of years.  Told me to bathe them with carb soda mixed with water (I must begin to do that one day) and also told me to get a foamy thing which I have to rub over my eyelids.  Quite a palaver so I'm not doing that as often as I should.

Ears:  I've always had problems with my left ear (hearing and have had infections of middle ear over the years) but my right ear was always good.  Had noticed of late when in a crowd (with family) I miss much of what is being said.  Off I trotted to the Lions Hearing Institute to be fitted with hearing aids.  I'd tried some years ago, put them to one side and that was that.  This time I thought I will really try to use them but I hate the sound of me breathing or chewing or swallowing although they say one's brain gets used to it.  The audiologist told me my ears were full of wax so when I saw Dr Ken on Monday I asked him to check.  He said my left ear was perfectly clear but my right ear was full of wax.   Put 10 of these drops in your ear each night, plug ear with cotton wool and come and see me on Thursday.  Last 10 drops last night and I feel the doctor is going to have to wash out my ear as no sign of wax coming out.  The cost of the aids are completely covered by private health insurance so maybe I'll decide to keep them and persevere.

Teeth:  I know to some of you this will sound dreadful but I lost my bottom plate months or perhaps years ago.  I don't show my bottom teeth when I smile or talk so wasn't all that worried and I did still have on bottom canine tooth left (although not much of it).  Decided to go back to the dental clinic and saw the dentist I'd seen a couple of years ago.  He virtually built me a new tooth (they won't take them out these days if they can avoid doing so).  Took him about 30 mins or more but after 3 months it is still solid.  I'd found a bottom plate I forgot I had so showed it to him and he said they could make alterations and it should do me fine.  Had to add a tooth as when it was made I actually had to canine bottom teeth.  Tooth added with clip to go around 'new' tooth but I found it hurt when I ate on that side or even when wearing the plate for any length of time.  Went back and saw a Chinese lady dentist who sent me for an x-ray of my bottom jaw.  She rang me and said it was fine and cancelled appt as she felt I should be OK.  Wrong!!!  I am going back on 7th December and this time will see the young gentleman I'd been dealing with before.  Hopefully he will find the problem and solve it for me.  Teeth are a nuisance when they are arriving and continue to be throughout one's life altho' Phil is fortunate to have nearly all his own teeth still.

Joints:  For months now my left ring finger has been swollen and painful and I am unable to bend it.  Last February Dr Ken gave me a referral to SKG to have an injection in PIP joint of that finger.  I had that injection yesterday!!!  Told not to use finger much for two days do am now typing with right hand and index finger of left hand.    Not holding out a lot of hop but these injections can take days or even weeks to have an affect so who knows.  This shows how swollen the finger was yesterday and looking at it right now I think the swelling may have gone down a tiny bit.  The plaster has of course been removed.

All other joints including lower back:  My back had got so bad I was unable to stand for more than 5 minutes and walking without my walker was getting impossible.  I'd talked previously to Dr Ken about pain killers, having found paracetamol useless, but he, and I agreed with him, was very reluctant to prescribe anything.  On Monday he took pity on me and prescribed morphine patches (very low dose he assured me) and Phil carefully applied one to my left upper arm last night.  You have to do it once a week at exactly the same time so next Tuesday at 7pm we replace it.  He only gave me two so I guess I will be back to see him in about 10 days.  He said they can take up to 3 days to take effect but I doubt on Saturday I'll be running around the block.  Just to be able to stand and make a few sandwiches without having to sit down will be wonderful so here's hoping.

Feet:  On Friday Phil and I visit our podiatrist and we always enjoy our 7 weekly visits as John is a great fellow to chat to and the hour flies by.   Our feet always feel pampered after our visit to John and I'm trying to get Phil to massage cream into my feet the way John does but Phil doesn't want to know.  Don't get me wrong Phil will rub cream into my feet when I ask him but he just doesn't have the same technique.  I guess practise makes perfect.

If you actually got this far I am surprised and you will realise that compared with some poor folk who suffer nasty diseases I am fortunate in that the above are minor things but they can take up so much of one's life ;cos on top of that we have both have to inject each day with insulin for our diabetes and of course take a multitude of pills.  I often wonder we don't both rattle!!!

It did me good to write this down as it has made me realise I don't have all that much to complain about.  Phil and I still have each other and out little family helps make life good.

TUNEFUL TUESDAY

I remember Pernell Roberts  playing the part of the oldest son in Bonanza but until this week I had no idea he also sang.  I found him on YouTube singing "They Call the Wind Maria" and thought he did a rather good job at it so decided to share it with you.  Hope you enjoy it as much as I did.  It has always been a favourite with me over the years.

MUSICAL MONDAY

My choice for today is another blast from the past but I am sure some of you will remember Connie Francis and here she sings "Tennessee Waltz".  This was recorded in 1959.  I find all my music on YouTube.

THOUGHTFUL THURSDAY

Going from wearing winter clothing to summer clothes in a couple of days can be quite disconcerting.  Phil really rugs up in winter (and spring and autumn) whereas I still wear quite light clothing in cooler weather so it has been harder for him to adjust than it has been for me.

We've had a weird year weather-wise in 2017....October was quite chilly and damp and suddenly November came upon us with HEAT.....it has been the hottest beginning to November in Perth on record and still the heat goes on.

All days (except one) have been above 30C (86F) with one day 36C (97F) which we thought was no laughing matter.  The weather bureau keeps promising us rain but it seems to either fall out in the Indian Ocean or the other side of the ranges so the metropolitan area proper receives practically none.
On Monday night we had thunder rumbling around for over an hour but it only produced 1mm of rain in our gauge.   Areas in Mandurah (50 miles south of Perth) copped the lot though with some flooding and damage to buildings.  Apparently they had a really grest light show and one I'm glad I missed.

It has been good not to have to begin watering the garden until now.  I remember a few years back we had to begin watering in August so I guess we have to be thankful for small mercies.  For one long strip of lawn and vegie beds Phil has bought a soak-it hose which will save him having to keep moving sprinklers and I've suggested he perhaps do the same in other areas of the garden. The hoses would only need to be rolled up once a month when the gardener comes

Years ago Phil had set up quite a good sprinkler system but when this restriction came in where we can only water two days a week he decided, as the system began to break down, it wasn't worth spending money on fixing it up.

TUESDAY TUNES

To try and keep myself in the swing of things here's another of my old favourites.  It may not be to everyone's taste but it brings back wonderful memories for me.

Bear with me while you listen to Artie Shaw play "Frenisi".  I remember dancing to this type of music way back in the 1940s.   Artie Shaw is a past master with this instrument.

Don't tell me that didn't get your foot tapping.  (*:*)

MUSICAL MONDAY

I realise I've been very tardy of late with regard to blogging and blogs in general and for this I must apologise.  No excuses but just no mojo stirring me up.  Just to keep in touch I thought I'd go back to some of the music of my youth and childhood and see how many of you enjoy the type of music that lightens up my life.  Some of the hit songs came and went but many of them remained favourites for many years.  Going back into the 1940s I remember with fondness this rendition of "Along the Navajo Trail" sung by Bing Crosby and the Andrew Sisters.  Do any of you perhaps remember it?

I am hoping this will play as I saw a strange sort of message on YouTube and I wasn't sure if it was saying I could only play it on YouTube.  Fingers crossed.

ANOTHER SPECIAL CELEBRATION

Not for us this time but today my beautiful daughter and her wonderful hubby celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.  I believe they are going out for a quiet dinner tonight and then spending a few days away.  They both deserve a break away from the hurly-burly working world.

We send them all our love and good wishes and hope they will return home feeling rested.  xxx

OUR BELATED GOLDEN WEDDING CELEBRATIONS

It is said that good things are worth waiting for and this was the case for our little family party to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary.

Had we been able to hold it on the 16th September, the day would have been fine and sunny and about 25C.  We would have met at Karen's house and sat outside along with her frangipani and her hubby's beautiful orchids.    As it happened Sunday 8th October turned out to be rather cool with showers threatening so instead we met at the home of eldest granddaughter and her husband.

There was just the 10 of us as grandson had to work and of course our other granddaughter lives in the US of A.  Although absent they were in our thoughts as was my dear old dad as 8th October was the day of his birth, 132 years previously.

Karen had organised the goodies and the tablecloth was strewn with golden leaves and there were 5 lovely balloons as a centrepiece.

We had party pies, sausage rolls and cup cakes and even the cakes had little hearts on top with 50 on them.   Karen had done a wonderful job and we were grateful to C and M that we could hold the celebration in their home.

After that we all went and sat outside while the two little girls showed us their skills on the swings, monkey bars etc.  They can do all sorts of things that I'd never have thought of doing as a child!!

We both had a really enjoyable afternoon and when we arrived home there was our Candy cat waiting for us.  A delightful end to a wonderful day.

THINKING BACK OVER THE YEARS

Sixty years ago today my son Steven was born at exactly 5 minutes to midnight.  He weighed 6lb 5oz and spent his first two days on earth in a humid crib.  He was an 8 months baby and to make sure his lungs worked OK and a humid crib was free the medical staff decided to be sure rather than sorry. After several months he began to thrive and became a happy, healthy boy.  This photo in his pram was taken in the summer of 1957/58.

I look back on that day because today he is sixty years old.  Unfortunately I will not see him or be able to wish him happy birthday as 15 years ago he chose to divorce himself from not only me but all the family including his dad, his sister and her family and of course Phil and me.

All I can do is silently send him my love and best wishes for a very happy 60th birthday and many more happy years to follow.   Happy birthday Steve. xx

BEST LAID PLANS AND ALL THAT!

This is becoming quite hilarious.  Yesterday I had a call from Karen telling me C and her family are all down with this 'flu thing again!!  Next weekend is out as the AFL Grand Final is on the Saturday and Immy has dancing on the Sunday.

Karen has suggested the following fortnight weekend which will be the 14th or 15th of October nearly a full month after our actual anniversary date.   C had asked to please make it so all the family can be there so I told Karen we are happy whatever the date.

It has now been arranged that Karen and B will take us to lunch this Monday holiday which sounded a great idea to Phil and me so Karen will book and we'll spend a nice couple of hours with them then.

Just to change the topic....we have daisies similar to this (some are white with blue centres) coming up all around our front garden.   I planted 3 daisy bushes about 20+ years ago and even since we've been rewarded with these beautiful flowers.  This spring there seem to be more than usual.

Here is something right out of left field.   Had a call from Karen last evening to ask if I was OK.  Yes, I told her I was fine.....the team I like was winning the game and we were also watching an English show about trains which is always interesting.  I love to see the beautiful English countryside.  Now you are wondering why I got this call from Karen.  It seems she had just received a call from her daughter in New Jersey (our #3 granddaughter) saying she had a text from her that in a dream I had been taken ill with either heart or B/P problems.   "Please" said B "check if grandma is OK".  How wonderful that someone should care that much.  Thank you B for your love.  This is a photo of the 3 of us taken in Karen's back garden several years ago.  B does make us both look short!!!!

Phil and I are now looking forward to lunch on Monday and our w/a celebrations in October....all going well that is.

OUR SPRING HAS CHANGED ITS MIND!!!

We began September this year with warmer than average days but boy, has that changed over the past 48 hours or so.

The 16th of the month was our 50th wedding anniversary but we had to put celebrations on hold because not only did Phil have a bad cold  but one of the young families had bad 'flu.  That day was warm and sunny (25C) and it would have been delightful to spend the afternoon outdoors at K and B's home.

Celebrations postponed until 25th which is a public holiday in Perth so the weather decided to change and now Monday is forecast to be 17C with an 80% change of showers and a thunderstorm in the morning.  Quite strong winds and up to 20mm of rain.  Seems the sun is not going to shine on our party.   I love this weather but feel for Karen who I know has gone to so much trouble to make this a memorable day for Phil and me.   I just hate the idea of people having to go out in the rain but I am sure they will gladly do so for 'the ancients' as Karen calls us

We are so looking forward to sharing our day with the family and when thinking of 'the day' 50+ years back I decided to find some black and white photos.  This group comprises Best Man Eddie Simcock, the groom and bride, Matron of Honour Betty Simcock and in front is 10 year old son Steven (the ring bearer) and 12 year old daughter Karen (my bridesmaid).  Betty was a workmate back in the 1970s and we still keep in touch although live many kms apart these days.  Her hubby Eddie unfortunately left this life some years ago.  Incidentally I made Karen's frock which was yellow linen with yellow lacy sleeves.  (I still have it in a cupboard as a keepsake but don't think she knows that).   The orchids were kindly supplied by a charming man where we worked, Bruce Cantwell.  Oh yes, my brother Len gave me away but as he was taking the photos I don't have a photo of him which is sad.

The happy couple after the ceremony in the porch of Trinity Church.....we were both so much slimmer in those days.  My suit was pale blue, and I had navy and white shoes, a white 'hat' and a navy handbag.

Will be back next week to let you know how it all went.

A BIG DAY IN OUR LIVES

Fifty years ago Phil and I met at Trinity Church in Perth and exchanged wedding vows.  Today we celebrate our Golden Wedding Anniversary.

16th September, 1967, was a cool spring day and our good friends Eddie and Betty Simcock were our best man and bridesmaid, and my daughter Karen and son Steven were part of the wedding group.  My brother Len gave me away.  Afterwards we had a quiet lunch, organised by my wonderful mother, with family and friends before departing on a week's honeymoon touring the beautiful south-west of our state.

Today we are spending the day very quietly as we both have head colds so rest is the order of the weekend and probably most of next week.  Granddaughter C and her two children both have the flu' so the celebrations planned for today have been put on hold and hopefully, all being well, we will meet with family on Monday 25th (public holiday in Perth) for a belated celebration and Karen says she has arranged cakes etc for a lovely afternoon tea.

Having married in our mid to late 30s we were glad to celebrate our Silver W/Anniversary in 1992  and even then wondered if we would in fact see the new century arrive.  Well, we got through that event OK and here we still are going along, if not strongly, at least slowly and still happily.  We depend a lot on each other, me more on Phil physically than he on me, but I know each one of us would be lost without the other.

I can only say thank you to Phil for help making our life a good life. There have been so many happy times throughout these 50 past years.  My daughter and her family have helped to make it a complete life.  Without Karen our life would be so much the poorer.  I of course have regrets that my son decided to turn his back on all of us back in 2002 but I do know he and his family are doing well for which I am thankful.

This has been quite a big year for our family....great-granddaughter Jasmine was born in January, #2 granddaughter A had her 40th birthday in June, her daughter C celebrated her 21st earlier this month, and today it is our turn; on 24th of this month son Steven will be 60 and K and B will celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary in November.

There have been a few medical issues of late but so far nothing too serious thank goodness.  I am hoping, as we continue to care for each other, we will still have some happy times to look forward to. Phil will be 88 in December and I will be 86 in January.  Just a couple of old fogies plodding along slowly but reasonably surely.

SONGS OF MY YOUTH AND CHILDHOOD

I talked about Len's great baritone voice.  One song I remember him singing was "On the Road to Mandalay?   I've always regretted we never had the technology to record some of Len's singing.

Here is that song sung my Australian Peter Dawson.   Did you know that way back then that the road to Mandalay was the Irrawaddy River?  I only learned that fact when I listened to this the other day.

SONGS OF MY YOUTH AND CHILDHOOD

As I mentioned mum and dad enjoyed musical comedy and in particular that of Gilbert and Sullivan.  I'm not quite as enthusiastic about it as they were but they you have to remember they were both born in the 19th century....dad in 1885 and mum in 1897.

This is a real bit of nonsense from Pirates of Penzance....The Major General's song.  Fortunately the provide the lyrics as I certainly can't make out the words he sings.  I wonder what the youth of today would think of this?

I won't think less of you if you don't watch it through to the end.

SONGS OF MY YOUTH AND CHILDHOOD

I know mum and dad always enjoyed the singing of Gracie Fields and this one I know was one of their favourites.   Here she sings "When I Grow Too Old To Dream".  This was recorded in 1935.

SONGS OF MY YOUTH AND CHILDHOOD

This song was one of my favourites and hearing it again beings back so many precious memories.

Here is Josef Locke singing "I'll Walk Beside You".

My mum was always there for me through her life (all 87 year) and at times I still feel she is there trying her best to guide me.  Love you mum. xx

SONGS OF MY YOUTH AND CHILDHOOD

As you may remember I often scroll through YouTube and of late I've come across some music that reminds me so much of my younger days.   My mum and dad enjoyed 'good' music and also musical comedy.

Each Sunday I will add a song or tune that has special meanings for me from long ago.  To begin with here is "Love's Old Sweet Song" which was one of dad's favourites.  This was sung my John McCormack and recorded in 1927.  I remember playing it on the piano when I was about 12.

Oh yes, the piano.   My mother had some piano lessons as a youngster and, although she had been without a piano for many years, she found she had the ability to easily sight read music and many happy hours were spent by the family singing favourite tunes to mum's piano accompaniment.

My brother Len had a magnificent baritone voice (he could have gone far had not decided to settle down and marry Jean) do some of the music on here will reflect songs he sang so well.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

Phil and I enjoy the music of Don McLean and this one is a particular favourite.

"Vincent (Starry, Starry Night)" with some of Van Gogh's beautiful paintings.   We have a print of "Sunflowers" on our bedroom wall.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

This song has always brought tears to my eyes but I love its so much and had to share it with you.

Bobby Goldsboro singing "Honey".

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

I must admit I'd forgotten Ricky Valance but I remember this song so well.

Hope you will enjoy "Tell Laura I Love Her" recorded way back in 1960

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

I came across this old favourite that I've not heard for years.  'Rhythm of the Rain' sung by The Cascades.  I hope you will enjoy it too.  It's certainly easy listening.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

Neil Sedaka was never a great favourite and yet there are many catchy tunes he sings that I enjoy.   Here he sings 'Oh Carol' and I hope you will enjoy it along with me.  It's from 1959.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

Karen and I, many years ago, went to a Cliff Richard concert and really enjoyed it.  Here is Cliff singing Bachelor Boy from 1963....so much fun.  Hope you will enjoy it with me.

FRIDAY FAVOUTIES

Another favourite singer of both my daughter and myself is Roy Orbison and here he is singing "In Dreams".   Sit down with a cuppa and enjoy it with me.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

Hi.......remember me?  My blogging mojo is still on the blink but I thought to find some favourite music shouldn't be too difficult so here goes.

This is an old favourite from way way back and I hope you will enjoy it with me.

Connie Francis and The Tennessee Waltz from 1959 when I was a mere 27 years old.

MONDAY MIRTH

No additional words needed:

When you've been retired a number of years as we have the days tend to roll into one another but fortuantely, so far, we do know which day of the week it is and the date too.

MONDAY MIRTH

Our Candy is somewhat like this.  She comes when called and is quite obedient, loves to be with us and yet still retains the haughtiness of a cat when she feels so inclined.  😊

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

As you know I love to scroll through YouTube searching for songs from my earlier days.  Came across this one which was a big favourite of mine.  It is "Big Bad John" performed by Jimmy Dean.  Hope you will enjoy it along with me.

MONDAY MIRTH

Well I think I'm normal but there are others.............

Hope this managed to bring a grin to your face and keep smiling through the coming week.

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

I found this on YouTube and as I have always loved the tune I found this very interesting, interesting enough to share it with you.  The tune is Unchained Melody.   I hope you will enjoy this as much as I did and a word of warning....the sound does tend to rise and fall somewhat depending on the artist performing.

WEDNESDAY WISDOM

I don't think I've ever hated anyone and doubt anyone has ever been jealous of me but I found these words very profound.

TUESDAY CHAT

....and so our Indian summer continues on and on without a break in sight.  This is our third day in the high 30ºs and the rest of the week doesn't drop below 30ºC/86ºF.  We were congratulating ourselves on having a much milder summer (coolest in 10 years) but are well and truly making up for it this autumn.

Phil can never make out why our seasons in Oz always change on the 1st of the month (Jan, March, June and Sept) whereas in the northern hemisphere they always change on the 21st or 22nd.  Does anyone know why this is I wonder?   Is it a political thing or what?   Someone must know the answer to that question.  Do you?

I had blood tests yesterday week but so far no results have arrived.  Yesterday was a public holiday in Perth so no mail.  Maybe the results will arrive tomorrow, hopefully. Sometimes they forget to send results to me and if there is any bad results I'll get a little letter from Dr Ken asking me to make an appointment.  I like to get a copy and then I know exactly whether I will need to see him or not.  Just trying to find out why I'm getting little aches and pains I've not had before.

Not much else to report as in this weather I don't go out and about, or even into the garden for that matter.  Just pop out and check on my frangipani and take a few snaps.  Those of us who belong to the Frangipani Group of Perth put pictures on there so everyone knows who is doing what.  It's as bit of fun and some of them have so many glorious blooms.   My plants are in pots and I only have about 10 but they bring me a lot of joy and take very little looking after which suits me.

These are four photos I took this week...they are 1) Puu Kahea 2) George Brown 3) Cotton Candy and 4) the traditional white that you will find in many old gardens.  It may be a common one and there are many beautiful colours but to me the white is very special.  All of them love the hot weather.

MONDAY MIRTH

I really can relate to this fellow....hope this makes you smile........keep smiling.

SOMETHING ENTIRELY DIFFERENT

Do you remember this little poem from when you were a child?

THINKING ALLOWED

Trying to be positive about the two days this weekend in Perth at 39ºC/102ªF.  Hope wherever you are and whatever you are planning, that everything goes well.

My blessing right now is that we have an effective airconditioner that will help keep me cool!  😓

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

Had a song going round and round in my head today and neither Phil nor I could remember who the artists were that sang it.   Off to ever reliable YouTube and sure enough it was The Platters.  Do you remember them?   The song is "Only You" and I still enjoy listening to it.  Best not to look to closely as I feel it is a little out of sync or is that just me?   Anyway, have a listen and tell me what you think of the song and the singers too perhaps.

I AM STILL HERE

Yes I am still in the land of the living but sort of dormant right now.  I had blood tests on Monday to try and discover what is causing all my aches and pains and hopefully my dear GP will find some answers.  I am yet to have an injection in my ailing ring finger (left hand) but this week is just to hot to even contemplate leaving an airconditoned house.  😓

Had to share this beautiful bear with you.  Isn't he gorgeous and so cleverly done too,

Autumn in Perth began with a hot one....close to 38ºC (100ºF) and the rest of the week promises to be the same.   Our summer certainly was milder than those over the past 10 years so the long range forecast was right but seems we will make up for it in March, which to me is always our hot and humid month anyway.

I will continue to pop back from time to time just to annoy you and promise to catch up with other's blogs soon.  I can see I will have a lot of reading to do.

MONDAY MIRTH

Computer users would understand this one.  I only have a desktop so am unable to do this.
Hope this begins the week with a smile for you.

WEDNESDAY WISDOM

How about this delightful little face?  It's wishing you a great day and I hope it turns out that way for you.

MONDAY MIRTH

A good play on words....hope it makes you smile and, if it does, keep that smile with you throughout the week.

SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT

I found this while scrolling through Google and after reading it a couple of times realised there is a very profound statement in these few words.  Hope you will agree with me and don't forget to smile.

😌😊😊

Thinking Allowed

Still thinking do I return to blogging or not?  My mojo has definitely gone for a holiday but am hoping it will return before too long.   In the meantime:

FRIDAY FAVOURITES

I've always enjoyed this song (love the rhythm) and listening to Dean Martin singing the lyrics I also enjoyed watching the dancing.  Hope you enjoy it as well.

Did you know?

Small print as it is still on hold and will be till I can get my hands working properly.  In the meantime:

Not long to wait for the weekend now.  ♫♫

WEDNESDAY WISDOM

I imagine it is possible that this day will come.  😊

TUESDAY CHAT

Well not really but just wanted to say:

Hope your week is going well for you.

MONDAY MIRTH

We, in Australia, call them mobile phones but nevertheless we do understand this joke.  Hope it gives you a laugh and the smile continues through out the coming week.

SOMETHING QUITE DIFFERENT

Found this on Facebook and just had to share it with you.  I think we've all had that look for at least one of our furry friends.

THINKING ALLOWED

Just to prove I am still around but resting right now and trying to find my blogging mojo once more.  Please just have patience with this old girl.  😊

Just hope everyone to the east of Western Australia can keep cool.   We had over 2 inches of rain with cooler days and are loving it.  The long range forecast about WA having the coolest summer for 10 years has turned out correct and also about our eastern states sweltering this summer. 

WEDNESDAY WISDOM

Unfortunately, when it comes to music, Phil and I both live in the past.  He even more than I do.

MONDAY MIRTH

Begin your week with a smile which I hope will continue right through the coming week.

I am so glad I at last found an explanation about the difference.  Personally, I don't wish to meet either of them.

WEDNESDAY WISDOM

I think this cat has the right idea on how to face life's problems....stay positive.

MONDAY MIRTH

Fortunately this hasn't happened to me yet but perhaps....one day..

Beginning the week with a smile that I hope will continue through the week.

SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT

Instead of a poem today....a little fun.   I've never had a rabbit for a friend, have you?

THINKING ALLOWED

There were fireworks in Perth city to celebrate Australia Day last Thursday and it was very hot (40C = 104F) so I imagine lots of folk suffered sunburn.   People congregate around the Swan River or up in Kings Park to get a vantage point to see the fireworks, arriving quite early in the morning to get a good spot.  I prefer to see fireworks on the TV as I don't enjoy the noise one little bit.

There has been a lot of talk about changing the day for our national celebrations as there are those who do not look on it as a celebration at all.  It is to celebrate white man landing on the shores of Australia and establishing a colony here with little regard for the original inhabitants of the land.   This of course is all about our eastern seaboard where white man landed in 1788.  W.A. was not settled until 1827 when a ship from the east coast arrived in Albany to plant the British flag. The English were rather afraid that the French had eyes on the west coast and needed to establish themselves before that could happen.   Perth was settled in 1829 so we are somewhat younger than the rest of the country and two years younger than Albany.

Unfortunately, over 200 years ago white man tended to look upon coloured people as savages and of little worth.  Apologies have recently been made by the government to our indigenous people but it was not this or the last generation that did these things.  Many of us are descendants of the early settlers and many more are migrants who came to Australia for a better life.  We can see the evil that took place way back then but unfortunately cannot undo any of it.  We have learned a lot over the years but it has taken a long time during which time there has been much suffering.

One story about Australia day amuses me.   The partner of my half-sister Marilyn is a Kiwi who happened to be born in New Zealand on 26th January (Australia Day).  Two years ago he was naturalised on his 60th birthday and they had a huge party to celebrate not only Australia day but also Peter being naturalised and his birthday as well.   Three wonderful reasons for a party, if one actually needs a reason.  They live in the country so unfortunately we couldn't celebrate with them.

FRIDAY FUN

Just a little fun instead of a favourite tune this time.  Hope to get myself back into gear soon.

Hope you weekend is a good one.