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The 50,000 Beach!

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Eddie Mair | 19:30 UK time, Thursday, 16 August 2007

Created a day early after a number of requests...because last week's Beach was in danger of collapse - HERE is the place to celebrate!

Comments

  1. At 07:37 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Crack open the bottles !

    happy birthday! - Strange but it must be coincidence that whenever I log in there is a new post up :-)

  2. At 07:44 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I'm feeling mildly elated. Perhaps I've done some A-levels or something ... no, surely not, at my age ... ho hum. Pass a bottle of something, someone ...

    Sid

  3. At 07:55 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    eric, I think the last beach has collapsed. I can't get past no 335.

    Pass the pimms please.

  4. At 08:03 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    *POP* Congratulations all the Froggers and Eddie. W're certainly blasting past certain R2 bloggers!
    :p

  5. At 08:07 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Selkius Piscinus wrote:

    What's the largest size of bottle that they do champagne in? Something biblical?

    Anyhow, let's get in several of those and get celebrating!

  6. At 08:11 PM on 16 Aug 2007, The New Blog Prince aka Marc wrote:

    Jonnie @ 1

    there's many a blog or forum where it's a badge of honour to be the first to reply to a new post!

    maybe we can start that kind of tradition here...?!

  7. At 08:14 PM on 16 Aug 2007, The Stainless Steel Cat wrote:

    Just in time, the old beach seems to have collapsed. I hope all the sand is beng recycled somewhere.

    Sets up deckchair to watch the setting sun and read the new Private Eye.

    Someone throw another Barbie on the steak. (Made in China don'tchaknow)

  8. At 08:44 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Oh goodness, the last Beach has been washed away to comment two hundred and something now!

    If Guima is here, no I haven't had your email yet. I hope it hasn't got caught in Hurricane Dean!

    Are we all set for the big announcement tomorrow? Have we guessed yet? Here are my thoughts:

    - Eric to take over from Dimbleby on AQs
    - PM nominated for another award
    - Lissa's coming back
    - Sequin's engaged
    - Frogs invited to networked visitors day via local Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú studios around the world

    How'm I doing...?

    Fifi

  9. At 08:58 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    At last I find an almost clean beach!

    Champagne, nibbly bits and party hats all round. At midnight we must have fireworks (although I'm going to have to hide behind a sand dune).

    Mary

  10. At 09:29 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Balthazar is 16 bottle, There is one bigger. I have a piccy. I'll post on my site

  11. At 09:30 PM on 16 Aug 2007, an international Firedrake wrote:

    Selkius (5):

    The largest is a Melchizedek, 30 litres or 40 standard champagne bottles. I shall have to 'drakelift some in specially.

    Do not confuse this with the Dominion of Melchizedek, a "state" which exists primarily to facilitate banking fraud, and the territory of which appears to have been lost down the back of the sofa.

  12. At 09:36 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Selkius Piscinus wrote:

    Can I set off the twelve-inch mortars at midnight?

    Please please please please please?

    oh go on, you know you'll like them. Pretty colours at five hundred feet...

    (the old beach seems to be back at 525 or so but it's more convenient here, not so crowded for *BIG* fireworks)

  13. At 09:38 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Apparently the best size to drink is Magnum. They don't let the stuff mature in bottles bigger than this. But see my link for a picture.

  14. At 09:38 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fifi & all,

    The old beach is still alive and available to linux - na na n'nahh nahhh! at some 500 plus comments.

    I'm not a champers man, seemingly allergic to the grape, but I've brought the steadily shrinking remains of a Glenmorangie bottle. Haud oot yer glasses!

    Well, well, well! What a charge through the target!

    To the Markets! Long and deeply may they languish!

    Here's tae us; Wha's like us?
    Gai few an' they're a' deid!

    Listening to Slick Willie as presented by Mr Esler.

    SLAINTE
    ed

  15. At 09:44 PM on 16 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Reinforcements on the bubbly front - just in case...!

    I for one, think we all done Brilliant. A*

    Fifi - Eddie told us on air what the special announcement would be - its a 25 minute interview with Elvis's body...

    ..Guard.

    n-n
    x

  16. At 09:53 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re: The New Blog Prince aka Marc # 6

    What a fabulous idea Marc - but who would take responsibility for sending out the 'tat' :-) You or Eddie?

  17. At 09:58 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I found this bobbing around on the shore from the 'old beach' from Mittfh - I rescued it!

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

    At 07:16 PM on 16 Aug 2007,
    mittfh wrote: I was just thinking...

    Since tomorrow's going to be a fairly significant day in frog history (can't imagine why...), how about a quick open-ended poll on a new feature to add to the beach (well, the description of). Maybe you'd like the BBQ made more formal, or perhaps you'd prefer the hammocks, or maybe (controversially!) you'd like the description pruned...
    Discuss here, and if anything resembling a consensus emerges over the next 12 hours, and if Eddie is daft enough to read it, there may be a microscopically small chance of it entering the description. Even if it doesn't (which is more probable), any discussion/debate will bring us closer to "The Magic Number" (which, I'm reliably informed, isn't 3, or even divisible by it!).

  18. At 10:06 PM on 16 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    I've brought in a temporary extra-large fridge to hold all the bottles of champagne we'll be quaffing over the next 24hrs.

    Anyone willing to lend a hand cooking up the BBQ feast? And who's baking the cake?

  19. At 10:29 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Selkius Piscinus wrote:

    Ed I

    Glenmorangie, Glenmorangie --
    Feed me till I want no more
    (want no more)
    By half-past seven I was on the floor!

  20. At 10:36 PM on 16 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    I'm afraid work got in the way of celebrations earlier today. But I have a bottle of Bushmills to hand now - anybody want to share?

  21. At 10:47 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Frances O wrote:

    Marc (6), you know how dangerous that sort of invitation is. Inundation would be imminent. And that's supposing the malicious posting goblin isn't lurking around.

    Chris (5), is it a nebuchadnezzar? Anyway, crack one open for us; it's 2241 and not long to go.

    SSC: the Barbie has melted all over the steak. Only the shoes remain. Um - Mig Bac cheeseburger, anyone?*

    In the meantime, what are those camels doing looking smug? WHAT are they eating now? Argh, it's the Naughty Step. We'll need a new one after tonight.

    Oh, and some middle-sized turtles have just popped up muttering something about returning whence they came now they're teenagers. I'm trying to ignore them in case they try to ninja.

    There's a water vole sniffing round the bubbly bottles. Young Macallan is trying to shoo it away.

    Ooops, watch it, Mac! That's a very good but rival malt Ed's left there.

    I think we're about to have a party.

    Hello? Is that the headache pill company (no product placement; once is enuff). Yes, a large lorryload to the Beach. Again? Twice the last order, I think.


    * Other burgers are available, etc etc

  22. At 10:55 PM on 16 Aug 2007, UptheTrossachs wrote:

    Ed Iglehart - apologies for misspelling of your name on the other beach. Sun got in my eyes.
    Try a drop of this Deanston - I think you'll find it more than acceptable.
    Are we celebrating somrthing - missed loads of stuff due to fatal dropping of handheld device thingy whilst travelling south of the border. Refreshingly cool near Ben Ledi this evening if the beach gets too hot...

  23. At 10:59 PM on 16 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    The old beach appears to have been halted at comment 526 (Ed I) - I've tried posting a couple of comments since but they haven't appeared. Anyway, I've shortlisted four pointless postcards from my local area - help me decide which one gets posted to Eddie! Further details are on the CransleyCam page.

    One further addition to this beach: a box full of bunting - so if someone will lend a hand, we can string it between the palm trees and along to the NC bar to add to the celebratory atmosphere here.

    Oh, and I've also patrolled the dunes, they're also clean and fresh, with nothing untoward hiding in the valleys :) All ready for tomorrow's celebration.

    Just 13'22" left to go, as of now (22:59)

  24. At 11:04 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I'll burn some BBQ stuff mittfh. Marinating happily here

  25. At 11:16 PM on 16 Aug 2007, wrote:

    congratulations Eddie!

    All I wanna do is raise a glass in toast to the comments we've liked, the comments that have made us give an opinion and the comments that have changed our minds.

    Slainte

  26. At 11:19 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

    Selkius (12) oh go on! I'll tell you if I can hear them in deepest Cornwall back in August!

    What do we reckon this announcement's going to be then? Wasn't there also a big build-up to the Twitter thingy? So I wonder if it really is as big a deal as he's pretending.....

    More Champers anyone? Pavlova (with real Cornish cream!)?

  27. At 11:38 PM on 16 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Yay! So we've been and gone and done it - more power to our collective elbows, well actually I'll rephrase that, more power to our fingertips. Unless of course anyone does operate their keyboard with their elbows? Unlikely, I'd say.

    However, enough excited wittering (not twittering, I still can't see the point). A big, big congrats to Ms Chris Fish Jnr, a wonderful stage of life to be at. Also, because I couldn't get it to post on the last beach before I had to go out this morning - many more congrats to Ms RJD Jnr too!

    I've just brought Ms Val P Jnr back from the airport and she's still walking on air from a fabulous holiday and the long hoped for results - she really did jump off that boat into the sea last week after she'd got through to the University on her mobile!

    So are we all jumping in the sea here tonight? Seems a bit quieter than I'd expected? I'm going to pop the cork on this reasonable sized bottle of bubbly over here, and ensconce myself until we find out the Next Big News! Do you think Eddie'll do it at midnight? Or even during one of his insomniac moments during the night?

    Who's for a conga before I pour the fizz?
    ¬¬¬¬?

  28. At 12:02 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Well done Bill Hughes for the Anniversary Strapline. Where's Kate O'Mara by the way, she's not been on the beach much recently?

  29. At 12:18 AM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    Just in case the first one doesn't arrive, I've brought over another box of bunting, ready for you to string up between the palm trees and the NC bar.

    It might also be worthwhile creating a stage area between a pair of dunes, as I'm sure a certain band have been practising like mad (in this virtual world, anyway) to give the concert of their lives in honour of this anniversary.

    And don't forget, when the weekend's over, store all the party equipment away safely until October 25th - the anniversary of when the very first Beach took shape.

    Meanwhile, back in the real world, it would be nice if Sequin and/or Carrie could be persuaded to wander near the PM production office, so they can be encouraged to join in the party.

  30. At 12:19 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Well behind the rest of you (unlike earlier today!), I can only plonk a crate of champers, prechilled, on the bar, and let you get on with it.


    Friday's going to be a busy day for me, and then I'm off on my hols, so I won't get much chance to blog - and none at all after about 6 p.m. tomorrow.

    So, just in case I don't get a chance to join in, have fun, each and every one of you!

  31. At 12:32 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Ed Iglehart wrote:

    Nae wurries, Trossachs! It happens a' the time, but I thought I'd put ye right onyway. That Deanston's is a new yin on me, but seems quite acceptable indeed. Hep yersel' tae a wee drop o' the morangie.

    I reckon I'll jis sit an' watch the conga an' mebbie gan for a wee stroll in the edge of the waves....ahhhh.

    It's been som day, an' that's a fac.

    Time for bed and a grand morning the morn.

    Nightie night all!

    zzzzzzzzzzzzzz.... (wakes just enough to finish the dram)..zzzz

  32. At 12:50 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Val, I hope I didn't worry you on the 'camstreams' chat? with the Facebook photo reference.

    Simon (SO) asked who you were - he isn't a regular blogger - just allows me to blog - by attending to my duties when I'm 'playing' .

    It's a lovely photo anyway.

    Great to hear that Ms Val P had a great time - and good news to boot!

    It's so nice that because of Eddie's blog - and Eddie's input - that one year in - we are all becoming such good pals :-)

    I've finished the Frog song - which has been directed by Fifi - lots of flowing MP3's between us - she said the bass guitar wasn't loud enough!

    Hope you all like it - although it may sound a bit too 'ambient' - often a problem when being forced to mix something whilst wearing headphones.

    I've also sent the CD to Eddie - along with the individual audio from all the contributors, so Eddie and the team can now identify gossipmistress from Humph - or Mittfh from Fifi -- and a beautiful CD cover from BigSister, where the whole of Eddies head is visible :-).

    It may find a spot on the blog - but over the next few days I'll get it on the extra site along with a mixdown of the individual contributions - so you will all know who's who.

    Night night x

  33. At 01:03 AM on 17 Aug 2007, patricia Elliot wrote:

    Oh Eddie dear - It's so late, forgive us!
    Anne, my Sister, is down staying with me in Islington and we have had a few glasses of bubbly -- canna you blame us !

    Oh, Anne says will you tell the southerners about the night you got caught short in the studio at Radio Scotland!

    Oh we have had a laugh tonight Edward.

    If I was just 30 years younger Edward you'd be a married boy, just remember Edward

    Never let your feet run faster than your shoes.

    pattie and anne

  34. At 01:09 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    BigSis - enjoy it - relax - and forget about everything.

    If you get time record some audio from where you are and send it to Eddie for 'Summer Sounds'

    They have all been fab so far -

    Eastbourne was my fave - but loved Scarborough today - it's where my Dad used to sing! The Spa.

  35. At 01:15 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    As an instant afterthought on Ed's 'summer sounds' --

    Would the Red Arrows be any use?

    They are flying here in Bournemouth at midday! --

    I think they would be too noisy before the news - and what if it was a bad news story ? :_(


    I'm at a loss to know what to submit

  36. At 01:20 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Eddie: And this evenings summer sounds was recorded today in Bournemouth .......

    BBBBHHEEEWWWW !!
    CCHHEEEOOOOWWWWWWW !!
    CSCSCCSCSHHEEEEEWWWWW ::::


    Beep Beep Beep Beep Beep Beeeeep


    Hello, I'm Charlotte Green -

    Three bombs have gone off in ..........


    ------------------------------------------------


    Mmmm .. :-(

  37. At 06:16 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Humph wrote:

    Big {{{{{{FRUGS}}}}}} for Appy on the 17th.

    H.x

  38. At 06:44 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Morning all! I've set up the coffee maker. Tea Urn, and pots for the fruit infusions. Just popping over to the next island to the patisserie for nibbles....

  39. At 07:57 AM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    Morning all! As FFred's got the drinks underway, I'll stoke up the BBQ for breakfast. Since Jonnie's the expert at cooking up Full Englishes irl, I'll give him the chef's hat :)

    Just over 4hrs to go...

  40. At 08:11 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    jonnie (35): The red arrows are surprisingly quiet. Unlike the jump suits worn by the pilots.

  41. At 08:31 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Righty ho --

    Fearless- I presume you wanted three sausauges?

    Don't worry if you can't manage them - Fifi will be down soon

    waste not, want not!

  42. At 08:37 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    Here we are, on the Blog Anniversary, and time for a celebration.

    I'm sure other froggers won't mind, though, if I take a quiet moment to contemplate and remember my dear mum-in-law Kathleen who also died on this day. A lovely, gutsy Scottish woman, much missed by me and her sons.

    In honour of her heritage, I'll make that toast in best single malt.

  43. At 09:02 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    jonnie (41)

    re full English.....can I have black pudding as well please?

    also old Beach seems OK for me...I can see 527 posts on it, maybe the tide washed them back in last night?

    does anyone one know when Gillian will be back from hols?.......i am need of Speedos repairs

    DIY
    :)

  44. At 09:03 AM on 17 Aug 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    Morning all!!

    Well, not sure that after this afternoon I'll be able to frog for about 10 days so....here is the fizz for wednesday so you can all partake in my bday celebrations. I have been a bit mean and put a time delay lock on it so no early imbibing (or snaffling by camel!) and Ed there is a wee sniffette of something malty for you!

    Back to august for a pre-hols catch up...back soon as I have a super efficient head on!

  45. At 09:19 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Happy Days!

    Mollyxx

  46. At 09:35 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIY - black puding coming up -

    Molly, are you just remarking on today - reminiscing, or is that a cue for a song?

  47. At 09:38 AM on 17 Aug 2007, UptheTrossachs wrote:

    Can I sneak a few pieces of square sausage on the BBQ? - I fancy a roll and sausage this morning. Feeling a wee bit delicate having imbibed too much of Ed's GlenM as well as the Deanston....

  48. At 09:39 AM on 17 Aug 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    BigSis - space time probs menat have only just seen your post. Yes, a toast to Kathleen and all other people sadly missed. We remember them with love, smiles and respect xx

  49. At 09:45 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Wonko wrote:

    Morning all!

    A momentus day. My usual celebration breakfast is bacon sandwiches served with glasses of champagne and peach juice. I've brought supplies of both if anyone fancies a nibble or some hair of the dog.

    Time for a quick paddle before I start preparations for a celebrations feast. Will advise what the menu is later.

    ;o) []

  50. At 09:51 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Jonnie - no probs dear, I just couldn't bring to mind the photo. If he wants to see a really silly photo of me then check out my Guys' brand new website, provided I've done the link thru my name ok. Hint, you have to look behind me :o)

    So here we are again then. I don't know Big Sis, drinking whisky at this time of the morn - you'll never get that packing done! Seriously, have a wonderful holiday. We'll miss you.

    Witchi - you have a fabulous time too! Don't be too super-efficient, it'll take too long to wind down when you get away!

    I can't wait to hear the song, and perhaps it's just as well that the technology to submit an offering escaped me, as usual! Then I needn't cringe every time I listen :o)

    OK, let's see if I can do the link thing, it goes in the website box doesn't it?....oh, by the way, my knees aren't half sore after that extended conga last night. I think it was after the camels joined in that it all started to go pearshaped?

  51. At 10:05 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Here's a grand song to have those of us of a certain age dancing round the dunes - good grief did we really wear so much eye make up in those days?

    Yup, actually. I had the same hairstyle (not blonde), chain belt, dance style etc too!

  52. At 10:07 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Joe Palooka wrote:

    Jonnie @ 41

    Have you any Holbrook sauce to go with that?

  53. At 10:12 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Wonko wrote:

    Morning all!

    A momentus day. My usual celebration breakfast is bacon sandwiches served with glasses of champagne and peach juice. I've brought supplies of both if anyone fancies a nibble or some hair of the dog.

    Time for a quick paddle before I start preparations for a celebrations feast. Will advise what the menu is later.

    ;o) []

  54. At 10:17 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly (44) & Jonnie (45) & Aperitif:

    "Sunday, Monday, Appy daze
    "Toozday, Wenzday, Appy daze
    "Thursday, Friday, Appy daze
    "Saturday
    "What a day
    "Frogging all year with yooooooooooo!"

    I thank you.

    Fifi ;o)

  55. At 10:18 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Thanks for the sausages, Jonnie :) Just what the doctor ordered....

    Well, I'm nor sat in a coffee shop frogging wirelessly on my new toy, isn't life grand! (It's one of the cshops that's part of the chain that, how can I put it, the name is one word, made from theword for those bright lights you see in the night sky and the Merkin colloquial term for dollars. Other coffee dhops are available, apply in writing for terms and conditions, your interest may go down as well as up, etc...)

    I see our Eddie's still being coy about this new "develoment". Can we contain our excitement???

  56. At 10:40 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fearless - did you get a toy keyboard with your new fruity toy? or are you typing with your elbows ;o). Or too much coffee?

    Oh I can't bear the excitement, not only that but I can't get on to do any work because the wiki thing I use won't seem to load the page (other more sensible explanations are available but I don't have all the terminology). Grrrrrr!

    Oh dear, and I'm being malicious apparently, time for a calming cup of tea methinks......

  57. At 11:12 AM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FFred (54): It's one of the cshops that's part of the chain that, how can I put it, the name is one word, made from theword for those bright lights you see in the night sky and the Merkin colloquial term for dollars.

    Streetlightdosh?

  58. At 11:40 AM on 17 Aug 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

    Val P - Congratulations to Junior Val P!!

    Fearless - the the *Merkin* colloquial term??? I thought a merkin was something entirely different......(?!!!)


    Looking forward to hearing the completed song Jonnie!

  59. At 12:22 PM on 17 Aug 2007, UptheTrossachs wrote:

    Another cshop chain with a strange name? What is it - Moongreenbacks?

  60. At 12:27 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FF (55)

    ..I think you are supposed to take the boxing gloves OFF now dearheart....

    ...also good INDIAN news about one of my favourite tipples the famous Glenmora***e..


    ...couple of bottles on Nicks bar for lunchtime imbibing.

    DIY (ahhhh..the clink of ice in cut glass crystal)

  61. At 12:41 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    JG (57) & FF (55)

    ....aircraftanticolisionlightdimes.....?

    or

    ......helicopterlandinglightscents.......?

    or

    ..........wtflookufopennies.........?

  62. At 01:14 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Ed Iglehart wrote:

    Trossachs,

    Did you bring any spare lorne sausage? I'd love a bit, and I've brought some brown sauce. Congrats to all who are due them and happy birthday to the frog!

    I shall be in and out this afternoon, what with quadbiking around to count my neighbour's koos and sheep, but I've left the wee remainder of the GlenM, and all I ask is leave me the last tot.

    xx
    ed

    Oh, and the footsie's wee dead cat bounce is already gone - down 0.37% as of 13:12 BST


    Lalalalalala......

    First of the day and malice detected - Really! Harrrumpfh!

  63. At 01:30 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Sara wrote:

    Hello! Happy 1st birthday, Frog! I've just brought this supermarket trolley down to unload the bottles at the NC bar - I promise I'll take the trolley back and not leave it lying around littering up the place (that's what I do)

    Look, froggers - lots and lots of magna (is that the plural of magnum?) Enjoy. I've been away too long so this lot's a bribe to make you all pleased to see me again!

    I've not been to any of those coffee houses you mention, but I recommend Auroraborealisdosh. Very popular in Ed I country, I believe.

    Too much news round here to catch up on, so I'll just have a snooze under this palm tree. It's nearly as wonderful a beach as DayOne.

    Love to all froggers.

  64. At 01:35 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    or

    ....... lucyintheskywithdiamondsdollars .....?


    DIY

  65. At 01:54 PM on 17 Aug 2007, UptheTrossachs wrote:

    Ed Iglehart - plenty of lorne to spare. Picked some up from Simon H (you know, the butcher from The Lang Toon) and rather nice it is too.
    Grab a slice - oh, and check out the bounce now (13:54) - what a difference a few minutes makes.

  66. At 02:19 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    This POSt (doesn't) BELONG to YESTERDAY -AY -AY -Y - AY - AY

    this is a great day, it is now a week since my car was broken into.

    It was the fourth time in a month.

    First time, lock forced

    Second time, lock forced, steering wheel housing smashed

    Third time lock forced, steering wheel housing smashed, cable to igition switch cut

    Fourth time lock forced steering wheel housing smashed cable to ignition cut, ignition lock smashed

    Each time, to the dump, to the dump, to the dump sump dump, Tonto, to pick up new/old locks, housing wiring etc. (The car is so old they were up dates)

    Meanwhile I discover

    1. The hostel round the corner had been redesignated from people with a drink problem (they can't afford Widow prices) who were very sweet and were forever coming into our back yard to put their cans in our wheelies, to young people who apparently are at car jack school there. Allegedly

    2. At some stage they've (the totally impersonal 'they') have nicked a few of my tax discs. This i find out when a large white notice appears on my wind screen saying my car is going to be crushed and i can pick it up as a metal suitcase if i want.

    Down the road from me is the prison. (I was going to spray 'let 'em all out it can't make it any worse out here' on the walls until i discoverd that my confidante at a singles club was a PO)
    It stands on the edge of Nelson Mandela Park where there's a sign saying not being in prison is true freedom. The prisoners can see it during exercise. How do YOU say 'Leics'? To mean 'dislikes'?


    But the prison has cameras which work so my car sits exactly opposite one now.

    I feel guilty about giving the prisoners false hopes when they see what was surely going to be a get away car, allegedly, parked rigtht opposite and my anti law and order lobby cred is in shreds but what else can i do with such an old car I can open it with a tin opener if i lock the keys inside (yes, its that old).


  67. At 02:40 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Wonko wrote:

    Gossipmistress - I can confirm (thanks to the excellent 'Balderdash and Piffle') that a Merkin is indeed something other than a colloquial term for a resident of the US and A. Without putting too fine a point on it, the term was originally for a pubic wig!

    DIY - Do my eyes deceive me? You ruin good malt with ice! ;oP

    Sara - welcome back, let me give you a hand with those heavy bottles.

    ;o) []

  68. At 02:49 PM on 17 Aug 2007, witchiwoman wrote:

    Wow, I've never seen so much champagne...bliss!

  69. At 02:54 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Sara (63) : May I pass a very large glass in the direction of the goodies you've brought? I'm not fussy, just in need of a 'wee something'.

    The thought of camping tomorrow night, in what promises to be thumping rain, is not making me happy!

    Ho hum, on with Friday. Will my whites wash ever dry?

    Fifi

  70. At 03:32 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Wonko (67)

    if you are refering to:-

    DIY (ahhhh..the clink of ice in cut glass crystal)

    LOL......that’s for the G & T chasers, to go with pints of Sheep Shagger and Bishops Finger.....:)

    Didn't you get your "Consuming Vast Amounts of Alcohol" badge as sponsored by Gor*ons?

    DIY

  71. At 03:46 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Okay, so in my excitement my typing skills weren't top notch... That's why "spoil-checkers" came into eistence. Shame I never bother to use one!

    As for the merkin reference, I'm sure I heard GWB say he was "Proud to be a Merkin" once... :p

  72. At 04:01 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Trossachs,

    A few minutes and a dash of extra liquidity from the Fed, eh? The second bounce seems to be losing a bit of it's elasticity now, though..... as of a couple of minutes ago...
    xx
    ed

    P.S. That sausage was delicious. Thanks.

  73. At 04:01 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Sara wrote:

    Thanks for the help, Wonko - that's the last one shifted now. Refills all round, I think.

    Camping in the rain doesn't sound good, Fifi. Younger daughter will be singing in the rain tonight and tomorrow at an open air concert and I expect I will get very wet watching.

    Do you remember the days when the Frog began and it was all warm and dry and sunny ....... sooooo long ago!

    * continues sobbing dejectedly into champagne *

  74. At 04:02 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

    Wonko (67) yes I've been dropping it into conversations for years! Apparently they're now increasing in popularity again (try G**gling it) - you can even order your own designs. The new R4 logo perhaps??!

  75. At 04:09 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Gillian wrote:

    DIWyman (43) and other froggy friends - Coooo-eeeee!!!! I'm back, and I've deposited Sangria and Cava on the Nick Clarke bar. Here's a basket of fresh Gambas for the barbie later.
    DIWy, throw those speedos away - soooo yesterday, Man. What do all you say to setting up a Naturist corner amongst the rock pools at the end of the beach? And can you stand a bit of Trance music at sunset? By golly, my holiday did me good, but it's great to be back!

  76. At 04:12 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    (downwards) as of 4:06 PM BST today.

    Lalalalala...
    xx

  77. At 04:47 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Rachel G wrote:

    Just got back from the real beach at Holkham to find the posting rate doesn't seem to have dipped much at all - we'll be cracking our 100,000 before you know it! I meant to record a sound of summer while we were on the beach, but forgot. Would have been a howling wind (or howling child, possibly). Next time maybe..

  78. At 05:12 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Wonko wrote:

    DIY - Delighted to hear that the ice is for G&T, man after my own heart.

    Sara - you're welcome!

    Gossipmistress - you see, I knew Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú2 had a reason for existing.

    Gillian - welcome back! I'm game if you are! ;o)

    ;o) []

  79. At 05:13 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Guima wrote:

    Congratulations!!!

    I'm new here, but now it's easier to refresh.

    This weekend:

    Rain: books, fire, wine, chimarrão, movie. Enjoying the last moments of my winter.
    Clear weather: A short motorcycle ride or a boat sailing in the afternoon.

    Guima

  80. At 05:26 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Gillian (75)

    wow girl....you look good enough to eat.{{{{{{FRUGS}}}}}}

    Naturist corner, why stop at a corner, we could have a whole bay!!

    ....i've thrown the Speedos away already!!

    DIY (mit nien Speedos)

  81. At 06:09 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Major huff chez Fifi this evening.

    Still laughing at my own comment about Scottish independence being read out on-air in an ENGLISH accent, I then bellowed:

    "SHUSHSHSHSH!" at my SO who had started bleating that his cordless mouse was playing up again.

    My perfectly reasonal explanation about Roberto battening down the hatches fell upon deaf ears.

    * Men!!!*

    Mollifying the poor soul took up the rest of the prog, so I missed the rest of the emails and could make no sense at all of the Sound of Summer. Sounded like someone earning an ASBO, but that's all I could make out.

    :o(

    Fifi

  82. At 06:18 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Hi Gillian, good to see you back.

    Am suffering from family history researcher's brain overload and am about to retreat into the nearest available hammock with some of Gillian's holiday offerings. There's some chicken marinading in the fridge ready for the barbie later and a new bottle of Auchentoshan on the bar.

  83. At 06:29 PM on 17 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Have brought some "Rocky Road Bites" to the party. The cat has followed me - we're apparently friends now!

  84. At 06:50 PM on 17 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Welcome back Gillian !!!!!! missed you!!

    fifi - twas six men playing dominoes....

    n-n

  85. At 06:59 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Karen - ah that's cos it knows it's going home soon and it doesn't want you to say bad things about it!

    Gillian - Welcome home! Great to see you, it's been ages, we need a natter later.

    Right now, you Firefox lot! ATTENTION. At great personal risk (being a CHANGEaphobe as well as everything else) you may note that I have downloaded your renardish pal, don't DO that, it keeps underlining things. I know what I want to say, I'm back to being the pedant today, go away, stop following me. Anyway, what I'm trying to say is - HELP are there any simplistic dos and donts and what to avoids, as a dyed in the wool IE user?

    I've had to do this in the feeble hope that it might circumnavigate my access problem to the editing platform I use. (It didn't, since you ask, but the powers that be were keen that I be using it anyway, and I know most of you lot bang on about it too, so there must be good reason for it).

    Good grief - give me a drink someone please?

  86. At 07:02 PM on 17 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Hi Gillianian - How was the holidayday?

  87. At 08:34 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    n-n (84) : Dominoes? It sounded like Kendo or Judo!

    Blimey. Roll on old age, I say!

    Fifi

  88. At 08:43 PM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    As it's now evening, I think it's time to wind the party up a gear. The stage is set, the fireworks have been carefully laid in the far reaches of the dunes, the bar's well stocked, the bunting is still sitting around waiting to be erected, and I've heard a rumour some disco lights might be arriving before the evening's out...

    Fifi & pals are obviously the main act, but if anyone else can sing, dance, act (even if it's a talent you only possess in this virtual world!) or otherwise help keep us entertained, I'm sure she'll share the stage with you.

  89. At 08:57 PM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    Oh yes, and DIWyman, the great cynic, has ordered a truckload of Alka Seltzer...

    Meanwhile I've ensured the hammocks are securely attached to the trees and anchored to the ground, so we don't have any repeats of the comedy clip whereby someone spins around in the hammock before falling out.

    Recycling bins are located at strategic intervals - any litter will be severely frowned upon.

  90. At 09:31 PM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    At risk of diverting from the celebrations:

    FAO Val P (and anyone else wondering how to disable the Firefox spellchecker):

    1) Click the Tools menu.
    2) Select Options.
    3) Click Advanced.
    4) Click General.
    5) Click "Check spelling as I type" so the tick disappears.
    6) Click OK.

    If FireFox still insists on spellchecking the comment box:
    7) Right-click anywhere in the comment box.
    8) Click "Spell check this field" so the tick disappears.

    Righteo, business over, back to the party!

  91. At 09:58 PM on 17 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    OK, it's 10pm and I appear to have been the only person posting here for the past 1.5 hours.

    Where is everyone? This party's starting to look like a damp squib...

  92. At 10:20 PM on 17 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    bunting's up, bubbly's out, bonfire's lit....

    da da da da da DA DA!

    ¬

  93. At 10:23 PM on 17 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Eaten too much?! (yep) Drunk too much?! (uh-huh) What you need is a....

    da da da da da DA! DA!
    ¬¬

  94. At 10:31 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Hi mittfh. I'm sitting over her on my own having a quiet drink and toasting the memory of Max Roach, one of the all-time great jazz drummers.

    Sid

  95. At 10:32 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Hi mittfh. I'm sitting over here on my own having a quiet drink and toasting the memory of Max Roach, one of the all-time great jazz drummers.

    Sid

  96. At 10:58 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    mittfh (88):

    It's 11pm already. We'd better get some of these fireworks lit before midnight.

    Everyone clear? Right.

    (careful hoosh)

    (see link from "a pyrotechnic Firedrake" above, with any luck)

  97. At 11:45 PM on 17 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Thank you mittfh - anything else I should know?

    So where on earth is everyone tonight? You can't be star watching cos that was earlier in the week, and you haven't all gone away on holiday. So come on, we've got quite a bit of chilled bubbly to get through. I could do another conga tonight, but only if someone guarantees that the camels won't join in!

  98. At 11:52 PM on 17 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Please bear in mind that I may be a bit paranoid, but I don't think that I will visit the Cransley site again. Strange people and strange anonymous/unposting lurkers. A big pity because I used to enjoy it there.

  99. At 12:03 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Big Sister wrote:

    My private jet having been delayed, I've time to stop by with another crate of champers for all you froggers/

    Have fun while I'm away, but whatever you do, don't behave!

    TTFN

    Big Sis xx

  100. At 12:55 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Well Froggers song is all ready and waiting!

    Should we wait for a blog mention on Monday from Eddie - or shall I just stick it up on the PM Extra site sometime tomorrow?

    Of course, I was only presuming that Eddie might give it a little push -

    So -- let me know?

  101. At 08:03 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    .....morning peeps...and another jolly fine day on the beach.....coffee and doughnuts on Nicks bar, tuck in, i'm of for a swim..

  102. At 09:04 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    PUSH PUSH PUSH!

    Blogstipation again?

    xx
    ed

  103. At 09:09 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Morning all, sorry not to have been celebrating last night. Combination of exhaustion at reaching 50k and ancestor hunting - now have RSI in mouse clicking finger and depleted bank balance - well you try searching for a series of James Wilsons and Andrew Wilsons in Scotland! Have despatched letter of enquiry to last surviving aunt instead.

    Meanwhile teas, including some rather special Yunnan, and coffee - Fairtrade Java - on the bar with danish pastries. Mine's the apricot and custard one please.

  104. At 09:15 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    RJD (98)


    do you mean the 'people' in Red?

    DIY

  105. At 09:17 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Oh and RJD (98) I too have wondered about Cransley lurkers. I haven't visited very often but it is a bit intimidating wondering who, what and why when people remain there but anonymous.

  106. At 10:04 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    RJD (98)

    trying for the second time.....blogstipation I think.

    RJD..do you mean the 'people' in RED?

    DIY

  107. At 10:07 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    RJD (98) : I can clarify the business of the lurkers in red, RJD.

    There is a very small -nay, tiny! - team of trusted froggers who have special privileges, which enables them (lord knows how) to identify the IP thingy of chatroom guests by some tecky means.

    They lurk in red, and tend not to say anything because they have to work incognito.

    It actually proved useful a few weeks ago when 2 very nasty-pasties had to be dealt with, who were being abusive and aggressive ... horrible! They haven't been back, and it's a much nicer place without them.

    Please don't stop going there RJD. Your sense of humour is a big miss.

    Fifi

  108. At 10:24 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    Morning all. I note on my PC at work the old beach tide is out. But on my new laptop, Higher spec and both using an operatic browser, the tide comes in at 300ish posts. So the beach collapse is not a windoze problem afterall. Sorry you linux/fruit guys, you can't blame it on that.

    Off for a coffee order. What do you all want?

  109. At 10:33 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fifi (107)


    thanks for that, brings whole new meaning to 'seeing red'...!

    DIY

  110. At 10:52 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    jonnie

    If you have not done so, Exclusively POST the song on the extra site.

    I note having a brief sojorn to the Cam site that you have pictures with tops of heads. How come the beeb cant do that?

  111. At 10:58 AM on 18 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Coff - spluter - sorry, I meant, coffee??!!

    and cake!!

  112. At 11:24 AM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    nn

    you ok mate..i know the Heineken manoeuvre if thats any help!

    DIY (never knowingly less than 5% ABV)

  113. At 11:37 AM on 18 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Thanks Humph (37) and hello everyone. Sorry I couldn't be at the party and hope you all had fun.

    I have decided to turn over a new leaf and do what I want to do with my life rather than what other people appear to expect me to do. My main difficulty is that I have very little concious idea of what it is I want to do! Does anyone have any knowledge about methods of unlocking ones dreams and desires from the subsconcious? (Assuming there are some in there, that is... it's a terrifying thought, but maybe I don't have a dream!!! Perhaps I am Martin-Luther-King anti-mattter???? Help!!!...)

  114. At 12:01 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Appy - Australian Bush Essences, similar to Bach flower remedies. I can recommend for all sorts of mental constipation. A pal mixes me up combinations based on intriguing stuff like reactions to photos of Australian plants, and similar potential mumbo-jumbo. However I can recommend them. Look into it?

    Thanks again mittfh, for assisting my escape from the red line traipsing along behind me :o)

    Jonnie - we want the song and we want it now!!!!

    Oops, that was a bit loud, too many bubbles last night and my head's a little scrambled today.

  115. At 12:08 PM on 18 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Oooo, thanks Val (114), how intriguing! I will. :-)

  116. At 12:12 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Apy (113)

    .....kept several chilled glasses of Champers for you....

    Just totally relax and imagine:-

    1.what you want to do
    2.what it will be like doing it
    3.will it fulfill your life

    if no to any above go back 'n start over

    .... then follow your instinct.......worked for me..

    DIY

  117. At 12:13 PM on 18 Aug 2007, a random Firedrake wrote:

    Appy (113): Make up a table of things to do, and roll dice (or flip coins or whatever). When you find yourself saying "best of three?", cross that thing off the table. Sounds silly, but it works surprisingly well.

  118. At 12:17 PM on 18 Aug 2007, Selkius Piscinus wrote:

    Not drinking while firing, and then taking care of the clearup and disposal of any hung mortars, means that the firework crew start to drink after everyone else is well into their stride, drink a lot quickly to catch up, and then fall over.

    DIY, could you please take those noisy alka-seltzer somewhere well away from me? The fizzing is making my eyebrows ache.

  119. At 12:36 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    all the market watchers are emailing money box so lets have fun - lets build a sand tower 2 miles high.

    rjd i shall miss your sharp wit and incisive comments

    is one of your real names 'keith': 'cos that old 'message to millions' applies, 'keith don't go'

    who else will sting the foolish and the unwary with his acerbic epithets?

  120. At 12:43 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    SP (116)

    no prob. mate....i know from real life what it is like to be 'down range'!

    alky seltzy's gone pal.

    DIY

  121. At 12:54 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Stewart :- You need to speak to Mittfh about the stuff on the camstreams site - as he looks after all that.

    Sorry about these people that hang around on Camstreams -

    And Fifi and Mittfh have the ability to knock out all unsavoury guests RJD. I sugest that in future - if they don't change to a name - they should be biffed out by Fifi or Mittfh.

    I will endevour to post the song up on the extra site later today.

  122. At 01:23 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    jonnie (121)

    does that mean that 'guests' will be able to turn up on site and browse / listen but not participate in conversations UNLESS they change their non de plume?

    if so how is that going to work, 'cos their IP wont change will it?

    which means, i think, that you must have a 'real' name before you get to the site?

    or have i got it totally wrong?

    DIY / PFY

  123. At 01:42 PM on 18 Aug 2007, a technical Firedrake wrote:

    DI Wyman (122):

    Mapping IP addresses to users is a very shaky business - lots of universities force all their outgoing http connections through a single proxy address, for example, and some heavy web users are on a round-robin proxy farm. It's nice for getting numbers to show to management (and probably these days for getting a child pornography conviction against someone you don't like), but don't mistake it for reality.

    There are still plenty of anonymising web proxies out there, if you know where to look...

  124. At 02:13 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    See, Karen? (82)

    Cats aren't daft. They know who wields the can opener, and will love that person unconditionally for as long as that lasts!

    Well done, catwoman!

    Fifi

  125. At 02:17 PM on 18 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Cheers DIY!

    Aperitif (113) - firstly, you are right! the way to find out is from yourself, rather than to 'take a year off travelling' or some 'mystic' experience!!

    Have you ever ridden a bicycle?! Bear with me on this one!! when you're learning to ride a bike, I think it's the same set of procedures...you get on, try to pedal, and sometimes you fall off, and sometimes, you go about 6 feet, and think you've got it!

    So, in order to "unlock one's dreams and desires from the unconscious" what you have to do first, is get on the saddle!

    For example, turn up at a local group (salsa, artwork, heavy metal, ping-pong). If it's not your thing, then don't go again.

    If it is, give it a second chance!! And then a third, and it will take time...and it might be hard work...

    [For a close family member, the goal is to go out of the house independently. So that has involved her taking the first steps, and "rewarding" herself for every achievement. ]

    Success comes little by little.
    No-one but yourself will recognise your successes, and so, reward yourself when they come!!

    We're all rooting for you here on the beach, as you know!!


    Finally, music helps.

  126. At 02:27 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re: Diyman - No I don't think it's that versatile. All we can do is kick anyone out by banning their IP.

    As technical firedrake has said it's not very good - but at least if the odd person is abusive they can be booted and will get bored sooner or later by constantly having to change their IP.

    Oh well - it's only a bit of fun really - but a shame when the timewasters try and disrupt things.

  127. At 02:53 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Appy (113) : Or Speedwriting? (Val knows about this.) It frees up your unconscious brain, which normally you suppress.

    Take a pad of A4 ruled paper and a really nice pen. Write your problem at the top as a question .. say, "What do I want to do with my life?"

    Look at the time, and then put the pen on the page. Start writing. Anything, just write. If you can't think of anything, write 'I can't think of anything to write' or 'words words words'. Eventually you'll come back on to the subject you're thinking about.

    Forget spelling, grammar, punctuation, neatness. Just keep that pen moving!

    After 10 minutes you'll have your first new insight. They'll come every minute or two after that.

    Keep going till the ideas dry up, or till you physically can't write any more, or set yourself a limit of 2 sides A4 and stop then.

    I guarantee, you will get ideas out of it, and be well on the way to getting answers.

    Works for all sorts of 'stuckness'.

    Fifi

  128. At 04:22 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    jonnie (126) & teckie? (123)

    thanks for info,..... brain now hurts a bit.

    BTW......jonnie you were doing some very late breakfasts this morn!. I had you on DIY radio in the house and the stragglers were still there at past 9:30! Can we all have lie in tomorrow and nip round to yours for a 'Full English' tomorrow at say....10 ish?

    nn.....no problemo my little spluttering matey!

    DIY (84.13.194.24)

  129. At 06:08 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Blogstipation.....or has the tide gone out?

    DIY

  130. At 06:29 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    crikey......only me on the 50K beach.......weeeee.........weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee.........!!!

    DIY

  131. At 06:42 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIYman - Indeeed - actually they were still there at 10:30 -- and today two families have booked in - with children that look (very much under the age of 14 to me)

    Simon is doing his nut as they were playing with his much treasured dolls house - and they are here for a week!

  132. At 07:13 PM on 18 Aug 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Jonnie (131) Was it the pushchair that gave the game away?!

    Anyone else fancy an old-fashioned Crepe Suzette? While I've got the frying pan out I think I'll try to flambé peaches and bananas too. What's your favourite spirit to have them cooked in?

  133. At 07:30 PM on 18 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Genii, please Gillianian

  134. At 07:36 PM on 18 Aug 2007, wrote:

    jonnie (131)

    LOL....Simon still playing with dolls houses....mind you I still play with 'train sets'.

    DIY:)

  135. At 11:10 PM on 18 Aug 2007, Guima wrote:

    Gillian (132)

    I like crepe very much. It makes me miss France and the good moments I had there.

    Good weekend.

    Guima

  136. At 12:55 AM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Gillian,

    Welcome back! Hope the hols were great, and you've come back refreshed and all....

    I'll have some crepes, please, but I always reckon it's a bit wasteful to burn perfectly good alcohol, so use the cheapest gin or vodka for me. ;-)

    I've STILL got some of the GlenM on the go, if anyone's interested. Just quietly sipping and enjoying nthe sound of rain on canvas overhead and the world service beside me.

    Happy dreams all.

    xx
    ed

  137. At 01:21 AM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Guima? Are you the Guima - The Doctor who chats to us from Brasil? If so welcome to our PM Beach!

    We are honoured - and you must listen (on line) to Eddie - our Host. He has a lovely deep modulated voice - though you may find difficulty in understanding the accent - if you are used to the world service. Well have a go - and Fifi can fill you in on any problems.

    Gillian - welcome back from Ibiza - and thank you for the flowers for the garden - beautiful xxx

    I'll chat to you - and thank you tomorrow ... (facebook stuff) :-)

    She's in another world - bless her - but I try to humour her!

    ;-)

  138. At 10:36 AM on 19 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    DIY (116), Thanks for the champers -- lovely!

    Firedrake (117), Mr Noodle (125), Thank you too! Fifi (127), Hmm, yes, I've used speedwriting before but not for this -- it could help. Thanks to all anyway. I will let you know if I ever make a decision... :-/

    Welcome back Gillian! I'll have whatever's going please!

    Have a lovely day all :-)

  139. At 10:46 AM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    morning peeps....the usual coffee and doughnuts on Nicks bar, tuck in, i'm off for a swim..


    DIY

  140. At 11:13 AM on 19 Aug 2007, Selkius Piscinus wrote:

    jonnie, does Simon really not call the dolls house a 'model'? That's what usually happens when grown men play with toy soldiers: they call them 'models' and that makes everything ok.

  141. At 11:16 AM on 19 Aug 2007, an heuristic Firedrake wrote:

    Appy (138): just make a table of all the decision-making methods, and roll dice... :-)

  142. At 11:22 AM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Selkius (140):

    When I play with toy soldiers (more usually toy spaceships, actually) I call them "miniatures".

  143. At 11:30 AM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Well, we're back from a very soggy party-festival thingy, and my first experience of bad weather camping.

    I joined in the music making till (I can't believe this) 3am! SO bore with his cold-symptoms and enjoyed the company and the music. He's now in a proper bed, having had the burger breakfast I'd hoped to cook on the barbie this morning.

    Before we left, we visited the two donkeys that live in the grounds. I'd forgotten how much I love them... I grew up with some badly cared-for and consequently rather grumpy and bitey donkeys, but these were gorgeous. Loved being tickled behind their ears and down their long necks.

    I love weekends don't you?

    Just have a wet tent to deal with now...

    Fifi

  144. At 02:34 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    oh, donkeys, please, please post photies immediately!!!!!!!

    (Repeated 'cos careless mouse work sent first one without my consent! Couldn't possibly have been malicious! How could anyone be malicious to a donk?)

  145. At 03:12 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Alas Mac (144) : There are no photies. Nor recordings of the party for the Sounds of Summer. Just sore guitar-fingers and a faint eau-de-donque to show for it.

    I'm more into enjoying a moment than recording it - sacrilege for a writer, I know!

    However NEXT time we're there I will take pictures of the dear animals to share.

    Fifi

  146. At 04:15 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I come needing hugs :o(

    We woke this morning to find a roe deer standing shakily outside our bedroom window. It settled down and curled up like Sam and we made toast and coffee and sat for over an hour watching, speculating, googling (to find out more about why, how or whatever). Feeling very privileged that it had chosen to spend time in such close proximity. He seemed alert, ears twitching, looking around, proudly displaying a few fronds of 'sticky willy' on his antlers, which gave him a rakish air.

    Alas, and I can't go into details because my head's still hurting from crying, SO commented on the change in its breathing pattern - a deep sleep a-coming. Yes, actually, the longest sleep of all.

    So we've moved him to the garage and contacted the SSPCA in case it's a notifiable thing, we have another number to ring tomorrow.

    I know, it's life, samsara, etc at least it seemed peaceful (apart from about 30 seconds at the end), but it was just such a shock.

    Oh, and the technology peeps among you, talking of IP addresses, it looks as if ours has been blocked by the site I use for editing. Trying to contact the Fruity service provider who is reluctant to communicate, despite our having been with them since forever and never being a hassle to them before....

    I'm going to huddle over here with a cuppa and look out to sea for a bit.

  147. At 04:45 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Oh, Val (146) come here and have a great big frug.

    {{{{{Val P}}}}}

    I can't help feeling there is a spiritual meaning behind the fact that such a timid wild animal would seek out your garden for its ending. Normally they go away by themselves.

    You'll know more once the SSPCA have done their thing, hopefully.

    Fifi xxx

  148. At 06:10 PM on 19 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Oh dear me Valery - BIG HUG. How sad. Oh but how moving too. It does seem very odd doesn't it? I don't know what else to say except hugs and frugs again :-(

  149. At 06:13 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Val, I'm so sorry to hear of that sad happening with the deer. You must be feeling very upset.


    I had my own wildlife trauma yesterday, though on a miniature scale compared to yours. Was standing at the kitchen sink, & looked out to see what I thought was a lump of the cat's fur outside on the concrete. As I looked, a huge magpie flew down & grabbed what was actually a little mouse, flew up onto the summerhouse roof with it & commenced ripping it to bits. All within about 10 seconds. I couldn't believe my eyes.

  150. At 06:32 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Oh dear, froggers aren't having much luck with wildlife this weekend!

    Frugs to all who need them, especially Val and family. Appy, hope your quest is proving enjoyable and stimulating.

    I currently have various bits of soggy tent draped inside the dripping gazebo and in the front room .. hopefully get it all out on the line tomorrow, so it can be packed away and returned to its owner.

    Now then ... I've made some more of that aubergine bake I brought to the frog gathering (plenty of capers and mozzarella) which is warming through in the oven. And some surprisingly yummy burgers left over from last night's do.

    Home made tomato soup to start, anyone?

    Fifi xxx

  151. At 06:58 PM on 19 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    ValP - (())

    amazing and humbling - seeking companionship even if through a window?!! who knows.

  152. At 07:24 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Nikki, I'm glad you're here.

    Your advice re duvet under and duvet over was spot-on. It poured all night but we were warm as toast!

    As well as nissed as pewts, obviously.

    Thanks n-n.

    Fifi

  153. At 08:33 PM on 19 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Fifi, I'm glad I'm here, too!!

    No worries, don't mention it. [No really, please don't mention it!]!![and are you *sure* it was me, at 3 in the morning??!?!]!!

    oh, come, come, the pleasure's all mine, I'm sure....just glad I found a way to keep you warm and snug all night....


    that was *not* malicious!!! Indeed, what;'s the opposite? delicious??!"!?? that's more like it....

  154. At 10:28 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    146 to 149

    When my dad was dying a poor old dog fox came to the back door. He was in a dreadful state, mangy, in pain and shaking. He was looking for a place to die. He lay down right there on the cool stone slabs and breathed his last.

    Have you noticed that animals in wild life films look so much friendlier than they used to, now they know we're not planning to shoot them any more.

    Me, I think those poor dying animals turn to humans as a last resort. Their own medicine has failed. Maybe, just maybe, humans can help, despite the risks of turning to them.

    If the SSRC works a miracle in this case I'm sure the word will get round and we'll find ourselves just that bit closer still to the natural world and in high regard and affection.

    Love.

  155. At 10:37 PM on 19 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Fifi (54)
    Thank you too!

    Jonnie (45)
    Jusst feeling jolly.....

    jolly mollyxx

  156. At 11:19 PM on 19 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Sorry about your little visitor Val - but what a privilege to share its last moments. Big {{hugs}x

  157. At 11:50 PM on 19 Aug 2007, Valery Pedant wrote:

    Thanks to all, I'm feeling well frugged now.

    He was just such a beautiful sight, I took photos (while he was alive obviously) and will put them in the flickering place tomorrow for those who'd like. A roe deer, we decided. We're speculating as to whether he had been hit by a car, though no very obvious injury apart from a lump on his head. Our other thought is, because the river that goes through the back of our place is so high and fast at the moment (24 hours of rain, and it runs off the fields so fast these days) he may have been crossing at his usual place and been swept off his feet against something, then scrambled up the bank and round the side of the house. Anyway, as I said before, he just looked so peaceful when he settled down and curled up, just waiting quietly....

  158. At 12:34 AM on 20 Aug 2007, mac wrote:

    just listened to the froggersong - goodness it is so good!

    'Delicious' is tthe word i'd use.

    Its a tribute to you all. brilliant and charming

    (PS just had to tell you that before 'retiring'!)

    love

  159. At 12:38 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    The older and more cynical I get, the more I find believable anecdotal evidence for things like 'energy' and 'auruas' and 'vibrations' in everyday life.

    If you were even a very clever fish, whose whole universe is water, imagine how mind blowing it would be to find out there could be an entire new dimension out there, that people like us inhabit, beyond water!

    That's how I feel about the odd things that happen, that can't be explained away rationally, that serve no apparent higher purpose... but that somehow still make sense.

    I'm off to bed now folks. Should I wake up Daisy so she doesn't wake up alone? Don't know!

    Fifi xxx

  160. At 12:57 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Val - I'm so upset for you. It's been discussed at the other place with a few of us.

    I thought it could have been old age - but as Annasee suggested - the Antlers would probably disprove that.

    Night x

  161. At 02:58 AM on 20 Aug 2007, Guima wrote:

    What a surprise to se you all out of bet at this hour.
    For me, it's not problem because where i live it's still early.
    Anyway, it was a excelent weekend despite the bad weather.
    A hard work week ahead...

    Please, someone tells me about the froggersong.

    Nite,

    Guima

  162. At 06:58 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    mornin' peeps, coffee and doughnuts on Nicks bar, tuck in, i'm off for a swim....

    DIY

  163. At 09:32 AM on 20 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Good morning everyone!
    Isn't itt odd how quickly one loses one's way!
    Away since Friday and......

    Can't find n-n and his helpful thingys.
    Missed PM on Friday.
    Haven't heard Froggers refain yet.
    Missed all the partying (someon still in the hammock, I see.....)
    bad back.

    Never mind. Thiink I'll make Ed I's cake.
    Or should I try ww's.
    See what I mean?

    Mollyxx

  164. At 09:35 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I'm sorry I wasn't around much this w/e, folks, RL intruded a bit. ValP, I know it's late but (((FRUGS))) from me too.

    As I said, RL intruded on Sat evening, and maybe you can help me. A friend of mine in France is currently living with her boyfriend, having just bought a house together 6 months ago. Recently she dropped a bombshell on me that she's started seeing someone else as well. Now, man #2 is currently on holiday with his mates for 3 weeks, and Hélene is finding that he's not calling/texting/etc, except in reply to her. She's now asking me for advice! *Yikes!* HELP!!! Any thoughts/comments on how to handle this?

  165. At 09:48 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Guima (161) : The Froggers Song was a mad idea to write and record a song on this blog.

    Someone chose a tune that everyone knew, and a few people re-wrote the verses. Someone managed to record the basic voice + guitar + bass version of the song, and Jonnie provided a link to it on his website.

    Then everyone else had the chance to listen to the recording, and record their own addition - harmonies, harp, guitars, whistling, tambourines etc - and sent them to Jonnie, who put it all together.

    You can now listen to Jonnie's final mix at ... click on the mp3 link and wait for a minute.

    Fifi

  166. At 10:05 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fearless (163) : I am in a virtually identical dilemma with a male friend. Right down to the 'holiday ... going a bit cool ...' bit.

    Email me!

    This is incredibly complicated, and you are in a very sticky position.

    Email me!

    And before you do that ... email me!

    Fifi :o)

  167. At 10:31 AM on 20 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Fearless - I hope this doesn't sound trite, because it's meant sincerely, but the advice I'd give, is don't give advice! Being a listening ear, great, asking questions which might lead to pal providing her own solutions, wonderful, handholding and potentially wet shoulder offering, fantastic, trying to provide answers in a delicate situation, sticky wicket. D'you follow me?

    I'm off to fl*ckr for a while. I'll be back. Thanks again for all your frugs, sorry I didn't think to call at the Cransley last night. When I think about it, I didn't have much access to pc as Mr Val P was frantically waving his magic fingers over it again. As anticipated, Or*nge was worse than useless in its suggestions as to how to get round my access problem. Any suggestions from any of you? It seems only this one site that I can't get on to. The guys I'm working for think that my IP address may have been barred because of me using it so much, I may have been viewed as a potential hacker? They've emailed the site in question but it's US based and huge. Help?

  168. At 10:33 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FF (164)

    either live up to your nom de frog.......or run a mile.......'Hélene' has started seeing someone else, sounds like she wants ALL the cake and to be able to eat it as well.....just tell her that man #1 has confided in you and thinks something is not quite right. If she has any 'honour' she will confess and fall on her sword or she may wait 'till man #2 shows up with his 'new' partner and then maybe she will realise you "can not butter toast on both sides"

    either way i do not envy you......over to Feefs!

    DIY

  169. At 11:01 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    i came , i downloaded and i heard....The Froggers Song............brill!

    well done one and all, you make us all proud to be a Froggin!!

    DIY

    all ways listen between five.........LOL

  170. At 11:07 AM on 20 Aug 2007, Cake Maker wrote:

    Fearless (34)

    .. here speaketh a woman who has been there .. twice. My advice (maybe this is not for the beach but not sure how else to get said advice to her via you ..) .... if he is only replying to her when they are are apart .. she is not on his mind .. whereas he is on hers .. which equals inequality which equals anxiety, fruitless emotional stress etc etc etc. so .. she shoudl stick to #1 .. or, prob best all round, avail herslef of freedom. Apologies if this sounds insensitive and/or inappropriate.

    Coconut toffee squares are on one of the small rush tables by the hammocks should anyone need a snack.

  171. At 11:29 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fearless :-

    I'd largely concur with Fifi's stance on this, though DIYman is being the honest one about the situation. Sooner or later the secret will be out - text message coming through at the wrong time etc ...

    There must have been some underlying problem with Hélene and man #1 in the first place for her to start looking - or being open to initial flirting etc..

    As for the lack of texting - and interest - there could be other reaons. He may be waiting to see how keen she is - you know - just playing cool and waiting.

    She needs (first of all) to address the realtionship with #1 otherwise we are going to see a very messy Ruth and David scene (Archers) looming on the horizon.

  172. At 11:56 AM on 20 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Oh No - (no Archers pun intended) now I can't get on to Fl*ckr because it's forgotten me, and I've forgotten the difference between my yah*o id and fl*ckr id and got email addresses and passwords mixed up and, oh what a mess.

    Not only that, boss wants me to get a new ISP but SO's convinced he can fix problem, but in his own time.....

    Canvass of opinions - say a person were going to be moving ISP, which lot should be avoided by fending with bargepoles, and are there any that can be recommended for ease of customer service/support etc?

    Does anyone have a stiff drink at this time of the morning - please?

  173. At 11:59 AM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Brrrr Brrrr Brrrrr Brrrrrr Brrrrr Brrrrr

    Click

    Fearless: Hi Fearless here

    Hélene : Ahh Feyerless - my ami, ow are you -- I ave a bombshelle to tell you -

    Fearless : Hélene what has happened !!

    Hélene : Feyerless - Anoother man as stolen my art!

    Fearless: YOUR ART ! - was it locked away! How shocking!

    Hélene ; No no Feyerless .. he as stoolen my art, I mean I am fallen in love with im. - and now e as gone away wiv my art and will no longer speak wiv me.

    I and foorlawn Feyerless - can u elp me?

    Fearless : Don't worry - I'm on the case - I'll ask the PM Froggers.

    Hélene : Ahh Feyerless, my life savviour - thank you my darlin -

  174. At 12:07 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I am in 100% agreement with Val, DIY and Cake Maker. If you do anything more than listen constructively ... you become part of her problem.

    And in my experience, a person indulging in such a complicated lovelife is NOT going to take any advice you might give.

    (Unless you think 'do whatever you feel like and sod everyone else who might get hurt' is great advice, of course!)

    I'm currently being a 'constructive listener' to a close friend in a very similar position, and it's HORRIBLE. What am I supposed to say if I run into his wife at Tesburyson's or socially?

    You might also consider taking the same approach as man #2... reply only, and even then briefly.

    Hope I'm never this big a problem to any of MY friends.....!

    Fifi

  175. At 12:23 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    On yet ANOTHER serious subject, may I borrow the Beach to discuss the Cransleycam chatroom?

    It's been suffering lately from trolls, which were dealt with effectively. But in doing so, it's created a new problem with lurkers.

    * Bleagh! *

    I've got some thoughts on this... would anyone like to have a fairly short email discussion, off-lilypad, and see if we can agree the best way to sort it out?

    If so, you probably know the drill by now ... contact me direct or via my weblink, and I'll get a round robin going.

    .... but now, I see it's lunchtime. Who's for a bumper snack competition. How many things can we make out of bread, eggs, bacon, sausage, mustard, tomatoes and garlic?

    Fifi xx

  176. At 12:34 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Val - It could be the ISP but I'd doubt it.

    For starters close down your router / modem - for 10 minutes - unplug it!

    You should - unless you have a static IP address end up with a new one when you log back in.

    It sounds more like some firewall problem to me.

  177. At 12:39 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re Eddie Mair (Twittering on)

    Eddie - swop your PC with ValP's

    She can *ONLY* get on the blog :-)

  178. At 12:50 PM on 20 Aug 2007, man #2 wrote:

    I'm afraid that it is even more complicated than you think - I'm actually seeing man #1.

  179. At 12:50 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re; Val P - also try using internet explorer - in case Firfox is blocking connections.

    And try disabling your Firewall temporarily. There are options in Norton and McAffee and probably in most of the Internet security software vendors for doing this.

  180. At 01:07 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fifi (175)

    Please excuse my ignorance .. but what is CransleyCam .. I have tried googling to no apparent avail ..... ?

  181. At 01:12 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Belinda wrote:

    Hello everyone!

  182. At 01:15 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    cake maker. Follow the link to the froggers refuge and somewhere on that (external) site there is a link to jonnies cam stream. 24 hr streaming of his hotel security cameras. On there one can do instant chat.

    Often getting caught up for literally minutes. I only pop by occasionally. And usually when no one is there ;-)

  183. At 01:23 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re: Cake maker

    Fifi meant Froggers cam

    Google Froggers cam

    It's a place where sad and lonely people meet up :-(

  184. At 01:25 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Fifi (175)

    re:- How many things can we make out of bread, eggs, bacon, sausage, mustard, tomatoes and garlic?

    ......I wondered where my lunch had gone.....

    Hows about...hows about...waves fat cigar about and jangles gold medalion.......

    'Eggy' Fried bread with grilled sausages wrapped in bacon served with scrambled eggs (with a hint of garlic), fried tomatoes and a mustard and garlic dressing?

    DIY (knowingly having tagaliatelle with a tomato, basil and porcini mushroom sauce for his tea)

  185. At 01:29 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Thanks for all your advice, my fellow froggers :)

    I'm leaving a "thank you" cask of Merlot set up on the bar for you to enjoy...

  186. At 01:37 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    ....well hellooo Belinda....glass of Merlot?..... and i 'ave got sum cheese and onion crips if you fancy a good time?


    DIY (never knowingly without his Walk*rs)

  187. At 01:38 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FiFi (175) mmmm, you could make up a tomatoey almost cassoulet kind of thing with big chunks of sausage and bacon lardons (and garlic of course) and serve it up on slices of eggy bread.
    Feel very hungry now

  188. At 01:45 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Belinda - hello to you, how goes it?

  189. At 01:46 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Re man #1

    HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

  190. At 02:32 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Belinda wrote:

    Hello DI Wyman - cheese and onion crisps are a good time in Norfolk, as you well know. Especially during this weather. Is this autumn now?

    Hello Val P - all well on the Belinda front, thank you for asking. I finished chemo last week! So big cakes and Guinness all round from me to all of you and the PM team. Also a special candle for the Frog, whose birthday I missed.

  191. At 02:51 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Belinda wrote:

    Oh and well done to all on reaching the 50,000! Bravo!

  192. At 03:20 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Belinda, it's wonderful to see you, and looking so well too!

    Band practice cancelled (again) tonight ... we only have a gig on Sunday! ... so I guess I can afford to let my hair down and glug some of that yummy looking Merlot now.

    Cheers Fearless!

    Fifi la Smutte

  193. At 03:31 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    fifi
    cransleycam- I'm looking forward to dropping by this week, but - TROLLS- how awful! Anything special to do /say? I was there once before , ages ago. No trolls or lurkers, I don't think.

    Belinda!! you sound good- lovely to have you back. :-)

    chocolate Brownies - lots- still warm. Time for tea?

    Mollyxx

  194. At 05:32 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Any tips on persuading a slippery nylon tent back into its unfeasibly small bag?

    Fifi

  195. At 05:32 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Guima wrote:

    I just listened the Froggers Song. Wonderfull!

    This weekend I saw a local film called "Saneamento Básico", or "Basic Sanitation". Excelent. It will get a lot of international prizes for sure. Hope you can watch when it goes to England. Don't miss.

    Guima

  196. At 05:36 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly (193) : If someone is being abusive or offensive in the chatroom (or here for that matter), please just ignore them.

    If you say anything, you're feeding their attention-seeking habit. They get worse and worse.

    If you leave the chatroom or avoid the blog, you're allowing them to kill the chatroom or blog. They've won.

    If you spot a red lurker in the chatroom, click on their name and 'whisper' that you're not happy with this person. Assuming the lurker is paying attention, the troll should disappear PDQ. Job done.

    It hardly ever happens though, so don't be scared!

    Fifi ;o)

  197. At 05:44 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Belinda (190)

    tis autumn dear lady......tis autumn..


    Fifi... (194) re finicky tent get SO to do it while yer puts yer plates of meat up.....

  198. At 05:45 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Hey, Guima!

    Glad you like the song.

    Fifi xx

  199. At 06:43 PM on 20 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Re: slippery tent (194).

    (1) uncork an unfeasibly large bottle of wine.
    (2) let is stand to breath for a while - say, as long as it takes to get a glass or two from the shelf.
    (3) pour out a sample and drink it.
    (4) what's the problem with the tent, again?
    (5) have another glass.
    (6) ah yes, I remember, that tent, slippery wasnt it.
    (7) pour a glass of wine.
    (8) right, now. ready?!

  200. At 06:44 PM on 20 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Fifi-
    just as I thought. Useful info for newbies to chatrooms though.
    Thanks.

    Mollyxx

  201. At 09:53 PM on 20 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    fifi - tent advice seems to have not made it through....shame!

    Hello Belinda! Glad your up and running, big cakes and Guiness will sort anything/everything!!

    Just discovered my 'Leon Redbone' CD - what a breath of fresh air!!

    n-n

  202. At 11:05 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I'm impressed with the song. Mixed to perfection I think. Well done all those who took part.

  203. At 11:32 PM on 20 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Belinda! Congratulations! (And smashing cake!)

    Fifi (194...or?) - use your knees to wrestle the beast into submission!!! (That's my technique anyway...)

    Guima! Can't wait for Saneamento Básico I can tell from the title that I'm going to like it!!

    Fearless (164) yup! Been there too. I agree with others in that listening and not getting too involved is best. They probably won't take your advice anyway and you'll just feel terrible about contact with the other half. It'll all come out in the wash!

  204. At 01:45 AM on 21 Aug 2007, Guima wrote:

    Fifi and Mit

    I was talking with you in the wcam chat and suddenly I had to talk to my wife, and go to dinner. Also my son had to use all the internet signal.

    Gossipmistress (203) : CERTAINLY you will live the film. Just wait.

    Good night, you must be dreaming by now.

    Guima

  205. At 08:51 AM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    ..morning peeps...tis like November in August so I will be staying on the beach today!

    BTW.....there is a slippery tent on top of that Palm Tree over there and large empty bottle of wine at the base of the trunk......Fifi....?


    ..right off for a swim....

    DIY

  206. At 09:29 AM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Guima (204)

    re:- suddenly I had to talk to my wife, and go to dinner. Also my son had to use all the internet signal.

    1. I suggest stop suddenly talking to wife....it will set a precedent.

    2. Get dinner to come to you....aka...a take away

    3. Send son for take away..


    problem solved?

    DIY.....always a help..

  207. At 11:41 AM on 21 Aug 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Jonnie (137) I AM in adifferent world....the public libray, for goodness sake! I have 5 mins left of a free 60 mins, so this is just a quick wave. I managed to download 4 pics in the flickery place before the internet at home went kaput. I'm in there as Gillianian, if anyone's despertae enough to see the first of many photos! I'll pop back when I can xxx

  208. At 02:19 PM on 21 Aug 2007, mac wrote:

    Goodness, someone up there loves me after all!

    I posted twice in a minute on the Philip Lawrence thread (the sole content of the second post changing her's to hers in the first!!!!!) and i was accepted!! Not malicious!!! Lucky I!!!! Or is that me?

    I always tell myself that i live 200 yards from the Royal Infirmary, from the railway station, the fire station, the police station, the town hall and the airlift heliocopter field (N,E,W & S) 'cos the powers that be think my work as a controversialist must be protected at any cost.

    Really its 'cos i'm skint and a flat next to the prison (that's here too!) is all i can afford!!

    But special treatment from the Blog Master - that is a honour indeed!!

    On the Beach dealing out huge quantities of water melon to one and all which Morrisons just can't sell 'cos of the lousy weather, but sweet and juicy just the same

    Planning a sneaky get away to France next month for......


    'an' ??? - to save me taking advantage of BlogMaster indulgence.

  209. At 03:23 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Hmmm can it really be that Gillianian is the only frogger to have ventured onto the beach all day today? In case there are people in the hammocks, I'll leave a plate of mid-afternoon nibbles on the bar (under a camel-proof lid) for them when they wake up...

  210. At 03:56 PM on 21 Aug 2007, UptheTrossachs wrote:

    Just been handed a Tunnock's caramel log - you know the one with roasted coconut on the outside. I'll grab some spare ones and leave them on the bar for those who want to have some with afternoon tea...

  211. At 03:58 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FF (209)

    look up!...I have been down here since just before 9!

    thanks for nibbles, large pot of redbush tea on NC's to go with them.......back to hammocking..

    DIY

  212. At 04:37 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIY (197), n-n (199), GMx (203):

    I had to nip out yesterday to take a photo to send to a local newspaper that is too impoverished to send photographers out in the evening...

    When I got home, there was a very determined gentleman kneeling on the grass beyond the fabled gazebo, in the final stages of rolling the final bit of the tent into something not much bigger than a salami.

    All of you were right!

    I particularly enjoyed n-n's solution though, and decided to try it anyway. That's why the tent is back out of its bag and now in permanent residence in a dip in the dunes. Might come in handy; feel free to borrow it, it sleeps 4 plus another 4 slumped in the middle section if drunk enough.

    Not that THAT ever happens on the Beach, right?

    Fifi :oD

  213. At 06:12 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    ..good eve froggers....done a shepherds pie for my tea with carrots, peas and sweetcorn....plenty of leftovers on NC's....help yourselves......


    DIY (gord on blue?)

  214. At 06:45 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    LONDON 2012 Olympics

    As you may know, East London will be hosting the Olympic Games in 2012. What you may not know, is that many aspects of the games have been especially altered to embrace the culture of the area. A copy of these changes has been leaked and is reproduced below.

    OPENING CEREMONY
    The flame will be ignited by a petrol bomb thrown by a native of the city. The flame will be contained in a large, overturned police van situated on the roof of the stadium.

    THE EVENTS
    In previous Olympic games East London 's competitors have not been particularly successful. In order to redress the balance some of the events have been altered slightly to the advantage of local athletes.

    100 Metres Sprint - Competitors will have to hold a DVD player and microwave oven (one under each arm) and on the sound of the starting pistol a police dog will be released from a cage 10 yards behind the athletes.

    110 Metres hurdles - As above, but with added obstacles (car bonnets, hedges, garden fences, walls, etc).

    Hammer - Competitors may choose the type of hammer they wish to use (claw, sledge, etc). The winner will be the one who can cause the most physical damage within three attempts.

    Fencing - Entrants will be asked to dispose of as many stolen goods as possible in 5 minutes.

    Shooting - A strong challenge is expected from local men in this event. The first target will be a moving police van. In the second round competitors will aim at a post office clerk, bank teller, or Securicor style wages delivery man. The traditional .22 rifle has been replaced in this event by a choice of either a Browning automatic pistol, or a sawn-off 12 bore shotgun.

    Boxing - Entry to the boxing event will be restricted to husband and wife teams and will take place on a Friday night. The husband will be given 15 pints of lager, while the wife will be told not to make him any tea when he gets home. The bout will then commence.

    Cycling Time Trials - Competitors will be asked to break in to the University bike shed and take an expensive mountain bike owned by some mummy's boy on his first trip away from home, all against the clock.

    Cycling pursuit - As above, but the bike will be owned by a visiting member of the Fiji rugby sevens team, who will witness the theft.

    Modern Pentathlon - Amended to include mugging, breaking and entering, flashing, joyriding and arson.

    Swimming Events - All waterways are currently being tested for toxicity levels. Once one is found that can support human life, swimming events will be organised. Please note that the synchronised swimming event for this year will comprise of dropping acid and watching all the funky ripples on the pool. The specific musical support to this event will be provided by "The Verve".

    The Marathon - A safe route has yet to be decided.

    Men's 50km Walk - Unfortunately, this event will have to be cancelled as the police cannot guarantee the safety of anyone walking the streets of Stratford , especially anyone that appears to be mincing.

    THE CLOSING CEREMONY
    Entertainment will include formation rave dancing by members of the Stratford Health in the Community, anti-drug campaigners, synchronised rock throwing and music by The Walthamstow Community Choir. The flame will be extinguished by riot police water cannon following the inevitable pitch invasion by confused West Ham supporters.
    The stadium itself will then be boarded up before the local athletes break in and remove all the copper piping and the central heating boiler.

    LATE NEWS
    Apparently Liverpool were set to put in a bid very similar to the above, but with the Pentathlon modified to include killing a spouse, digging a hole, burying the body, laying a patio and the strangely named 'Calm Down' contest.

    To guarantee the entry of any athletes from the local area at all, drug testing has been waived for the duration of the games.


    Thanks to Blind Lemon Ade for this.
    Any frogger who wishes to receive this sort of nonsense by email should contact Fifi by the usual method...!

    Fifi

  215. At 06:57 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Nice thought DIY but I've got no appetite and a throat that feels like my last meal had ground glass and rusty razorblades in it.

    :o(

    I may indulge in a thin gruel later, if my tummy starts rumbling.

    SO is taking the opposite approach: he's just ordered in a 'phlegm-shifter curry' with extra chillies!

    Fifi

  216. At 08:12 PM on 21 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    Righteo, just in case anyone's still got any appetite left after all the nibbles left behind during the day, I've stoked up the BBQ and landscaped a suitable area in the first row of dunes for a campfire, should anyone wish to recreate one (it's been a few weeks).

    All rockets and fireworks from Friday's celebrations have been collected and accounted for, the bunting has been safely packed away before it gets tattered - it'll come in useful for late October (Beach Birthday), December (Christmas/New Year), and any other celebrations we can find an excuse for between then and next August (Blog's 2nd Birthday)!

    Meanwhile, we've still got several cratefuls of DIY's Alka Seltzers still sitting around unused - anyone got any ideas on what to do with them?
    (Answers on a pointless postcard to: Random Froggers, The Beach, Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú Blogosphere, T'Internet)

  217. At 08:27 PM on 21 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    ooooh just time for a quick jog!

    my, what a day!!!!
    August?? Schmaugust, more like....

    n-n

  218. At 09:13 PM on 21 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Mittfh, my birthday is in November. As is, I believe, that of our lord and mairster.

    Excuse for another party?

    Fifi

  219. At 01:33 AM on 22 Aug 2007, LadyPen wrote:

    Ooooooo now Feefs, there's a thort . . . Mine, too. Are we all Scorpios? Is there a cream for it? Or a sling?

    xx
    LadyP

  220. At 06:05 AM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Lady P, where have you been? Good to see you emerge, at the mention of a party...!

    Actually, I just made it into Sagittarius. But then I WAS born two weeks later than expected.

    Near enough though eh?

    Fifi

  221. At 07:07 AM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    morning Feefs, up with the lark? (or seagul).....coffee and doughnuts on the bar...it's still like Novemeber in August!!

    off for a jog and a swim

    DIY

  222. At 08:51 AM on 22 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Morning all, just dashing past on my way to buy maps in August to try to pin down where my ancestors originated. This ancestor hunting is seriously addictive. Will try to catch up properly later.

    Meanwhile teas, coffee and croissants on the bar and...

    lots of happy birthday wishes to Witchiwoman.

  223. At 08:55 AM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Ooh! I see a commercial solar powered juicer has been washed up on the shore. I'll set it up on the bar here...

    *HEAVE*

    Right, who wants to join me on the search for fruit to juice?

  224. At 10:13 AM on 22 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    FF (223). I've found the Mangos, And there are half a dozen juicy pears over there.

  225. At 10:31 AM on 22 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Fearless - There are a few very bitter lemons posting on some of the recent threads - are they any use?

  226. At 10:55 AM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I've got the pineapples... what about the kiwi fruits?


    How can I be malicious if I've had enough time to reboot windoze 4 times?????

  227. At 12:04 PM on 22 Aug 2007, stewart M wrote:

    I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts!! (sorry)

  228. At 12:09 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    ......how amazing.....just warming down after my jog and bumped into this chap, had a parachute slung over his shoulder, said he was looking for his Camel......name of Biggles......anyone care to help.

    ttfn....sun over yard arm....

    DIY

  229. At 12:47 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FF (226)

    coo...eee....what do you need?

    I.... have brought some beautiful Passion Fruits.....hope you an cope Freddy.....

  230. At 12:55 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Frances O wrote:

    Feefs, are you able to post your email address here? I can't use the Lying Scotsman link.

    Loved the Olympics thingie.

  231. At 12:57 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    ..oh.......and Freddy........some double whipped cream.......to top it all.

  232. At 02:24 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Frances O wrote:

    Er - P U S H !

  233. At 03:02 PM on 22 Aug 2007, mac wrote:

    whats about two foot high, straggley, with large purple leaves, grows in pots and you put it in your food?

  234. At 04:02 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Okay, fruit smoothies are ready on the bar, folks!

  235. At 04:15 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I won't stop here, I've got a cold, and am living proof that it's catching.

    Will borrow, if I may, one of these large vit-C laden glasses of mixed citrus juice from the Bar, and just crawl along to the hammock at the far end for the rest of the afternoon.

    If Ray Gosling calls, send him to me!

    Fifi ;o)

  236. At 04:59 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    mac (233)

    OK i give up.......whats about two foot high, straggley, with large purple leaves, grows in pots and you put it in your food?

    Fifi (235)

    well if one does go camping in the rain, one must put up with consequences....!

    DIY (always a dry camper)

  237. At 05:31 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Aw poor Fifi! You could do with a strapping young chap to rub some vick on yer chest!

    Mm lovely smoothie! (The drink's not bad either..)

  238. At 05:39 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Feefs

    In my experience iced vodka is the only answer for a really sore throat! It sorted out my tonsilitis on Open University Boot Camp last year, I'd already tried all the stuff that I would try to sell someone.

    The only Vit C you need is from the slice of lemon...

    My other "home remedy" is proper mashed potato. That seems to work too. Alcohol and comfort food.

    And plenty of fluids.

    This is getting to be a bit like the "Life of Brian" thing so I'll stop before it gets out of hand.

    Take care

    Kxx

  239. At 05:53 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Has anyone got a bottle open? I've just been "pauled" on Tuesday's Glass Box...

  240. At 06:02 PM on 22 Aug 2007, mac wrote:

    A bloke starts his new job at the zoo and is given three tasks.
    First is to clear the exotic fish pool of weeds. As he does this a huge fish jumps out and bites him. To show who is boss, he beats it to death with a spade. Realising his employer won't be best pleased he disposes of the fish by feeding it to the lions as lions will eat anything.
    Moving on to the second job of clearing out the Chimp house, he is attacked by the chimps that pelt him with coconuts. He swipes at two chimps with a spade killing them both. What can he do? Feed them to the lions, he says to himself, because lions eat anything. He hurls the corpses into the lion enclosure.
    He moves on to the last job which is to collect honey from the South American Bees. As soon as he starts he is attacked by the bees. He grabs the spade and smashes the bees to a pulp. By now he knows what to do and throws them into the lions cage because lions eat anything.

    Later that day a new lion arrives at the zoo. He wanders up to another lion and says "What's the food like here?" (Wait for it!!)...........
    ...The lions say: "Absolutely brilliant, today we had Fish and Chimps with Mushy Bees."

    Now being served.

  241. At 06:07 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    GMx (237) : Ooh yes please! Is that the young Macallan over there by the rock pools, looking bored...?

    Feeling better already.

    Yours from the damp campers camp,

    Fifi

    ;o)

  242. At 06:12 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    smoothies are lovely. I'm sticking a stick in one and freezing it.

  243. At 06:23 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    225. the oldest and sourest under an RJD head.

    Poor fellow, he is being impersonated by every crashing bore in the country.

  244. At 06:32 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Well the good news is that our
    wireless internet has been restored. I am using daughter's laptop and discovering the joys of frogging and cooking the dinner at the same time....one less guilt trip!
    The bad news is that our main computer still has no internet, so I'm struggling a bit without a mouse. Obviously, I just need more practice!

    More good news....I've heard the latest version of the froggers song, and it is great - well done Jonnie on a great mix.
    HOWEVER....there is a name missing off the Credits!!!
    So that's it then....I am gone, and instantly forgotten. ;o(

  245. At 06:58 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIY (236),

    ?

    salaaaaaaam
    ed

  246. At 06:58 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Gillian - you're not forgotten, honest.! And if you need a mouse, our Gordon brought a spare one into the hall a few days ago. I'm afraid I made him take it outside again. But I'll definitely save you the next one....

  247. At 07:33 PM on 22 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Gillian (244) - missed credits all round! - I even specifically emailled our jonnie with a (completely unusable) contribution, and he perfectly reasonably didn't use it.

    What shall we do?!

    I am thinking of standing on a glacier with all my clothes off...but that's beside the point...

    n-n

  248. At 07:44 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll see what I can find in the medicine chest, fruit bowl and drinks cupboard!

    Actually, as long as I keep up the ibuprofen and liquids, and don't move around too much, I don't feel too lousy.

    I see my previous comment about the young Macallan rubbing GM's ointment on my chest has gone astray. If I had the energy I'd say GRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!

    As it is... nap time.

    Fifi xxx

  249. At 07:48 PM on 22 Aug 2007, mittfh wrote:

    *Looks around, confused*

    Err, Nikki, what glacier? :)

    Meanwhile, there's lots of citrus juice and amoothies being served at the NC bar, but I haven't seen many munchies tonight...

    I've stoked up the BBQ, and have brought a selection of real and fake meat burgers (clearly labelled!) along - feel free to help yourself to whatever you fancy - there'll always be plenty to go around.

  250. At 09:01 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Mac (240)

    That's the funniest thing I've read today. Brill. Thanks!!

  251. At 09:40 PM on 22 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    HOW!
    ................__..(__)..__
    ...............(__)l.....l(__)
    ...............l.=.ll..=.ll.=.l.__
    ...............l....ll.....ll....l(__)
    ...............l.=.ll=.=ll.=.ll.=.l
    ...............l....ll.....ll....ll....l
    .....__.......l.=.ll=.=ll.=.ll.=.l
    ....l]...|.....l................ll.=.l
    …â¶Ä¦l…..´¥.....±ô.....................±ô
    …â¶Ä¦(…..(³å./.......................±ô
    …â¶Ä¦.................................±ô
    …â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦...............................±ô
    …â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦............................../
    …â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦..³å....................../
    …â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦â¶Ä¦...±ô.....................±ô


    thought of doing just the one finger, but thought it might not get through....!!! hee hee!

    n-n

  252. At 09:40 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Quiet here tonight. I've just dragged myself back from the wilds of Argyll in 1747 and packed away the family history for a while.

    Will you join me in a dram and a toast to those ancestors who lived much harder lives than we have to.

    Slianthe !

  253. At 10:12 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Gillian and Nikki : I didn't see the CD but I'll email Jonnie and beat him to a pulp for you both.

    And on his behalf: "Sorreeeeeeeeeeeee!"

    :o(((

    Fifi

  254. At 10:33 PM on 22 Aug 2007, Val P wrote:

    Gillianian - but where would our song be without your pm pms? That's shoddy crediting that is. Shame on them!
    I know what you mean about laptops, I tried to use a pal's to do some urgent work on Monday before we got the router going again, and it was just awful - how on earth do you highlight things without a mouse??

    Re colds - I'm furiously popping aconite again as I feel the dreaded scratchy throat etc. We reckon TD brought this one back from Tenerife :o(

    Here are a couple of bottles of slightly frizzante rose which el coop was selling at half price. Very nice if chilled sufficiently (bit like boiled sweets if left too long at room temp). Drink up.

  255. At 11:22 PM on 22 Aug 2007, wrote:

    How! Hey Noodles how clever!

    Val - there's a message for you on the Robinson Crusoe thread if only I could remember which one it was....!

    Fifi! Have you finished with the young Mc yet? Could I borrow him for a back massage (purely therapeutic, you understand!)

    Gillianian - how could they miss you off the credits? Well we all knew you were there!

  256. At 12:37 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Hi All,

    August has been keeping me very busy (I may have found a house!!!) so I've not been around much, but I've just managed to catch up with the beach.

    Anyone for a game of rounders? We haven't done that for a while.

  257. At 07:15 AM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    well it's still November in August so I will be beach combing all day.....coffee and doughnuts on NC's..off for a jog..

    DIY

  258. At 08:33 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Morning all, only just managed to read back over the last few days and found THE song. I wondered why it was getting referred to. Many thanks to Jonnie for the mix, and everyone else including those uncredited!

    Suffered a bit of blog overload getting to 50K and lots of other kinds of overload in August which is proving rather fraught to say the least. Hoping to get back on a more even keel today.

    Just off to purchase stuff at our local food emporium - anything I can get you?

  259. At 09:30 AM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Anne. P (258)

    hi......can you get me some bananas, blueberries, strawbs and some raspberries..oh and some natural yoghurt.....I am in smoothy making mood!

    DIY

  260. At 09:48 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Simon Worrall wrote:

    RJD (225) & Mac (243);
    If you've got a personal dislike thing going then keep it off the Beach.

    RJD, you've been around long enough to know that the Beach is to be kept free from any personal animosity.

    Mac, you're more recent, but the principle has been at the top of the Beach thread for many months now. I should know, I wrote that Beach intro that Eddie posts each week (except this one !). No need to respond to snide comments here. Nor drag them in from other threads.

    Now, here's a glass of what you each fancy, whatever that is. Take it in the spirit in which it is offered. If you can't be pleasant to each other then sit in different parts of the Beach and just ignore each other (without muttering, please).

    Any more personally offensive remarks like those on the Beach and I'll complain about them myself and try to have them removed. You can indulge in that kind of behaviour anywhere else, but not here.

    Si.

  261. At 10:06 AM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    nn (251)

    brill.....and I didn't know you painted your nails!

    DIY

  262. At 10:46 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Rachel G wrote:

    Just listened to the Frogger's song and am hugely impressed by your general brilliance! Well done everyone.

    What a relief to get to the beach and find the sun shining. Back in August, Suffolk has been sitting under the same grey cloud for what feels like months and if it doesn't lift tomorrow when I take half the local primary to Bewilderwood (other organic, tree-hugging theme parks are available, probably) I am going to cry.

  263. At 10:48 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Rachel G wrote:

    Sorry Val P, I expect that ought to be Froggers'.

  264. At 11:34 AM on 23 Aug 2007, Top Tips Editor wrote:

    Si (260) - My (225) wasn't directed at mac but generally at one-off humourless posters on the main threads who don't visit the beach. It was meant to raise a laugh but obviously failed. mac chose to react personally to it.

    I'm happy to accept your glass but I'll not partake with mac, who I find more troll than droll. I know that he has been "spoken to" by the PM team but like them, I have my doubts as to what that will achieve.

    Please do complain about and report any offensive remarks and behaviour - I've done it more than once myself.

    I've been on the Beach since it was discovered last October. I know the principles that obtain here and I feel that I have been more than reasonably good in upholding them.

  265. At 11:59 AM on 23 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Ooop! - As you will appreciate I was "Top Tips Editor" for Viz yesterday!

  266. At 12:03 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Aha! Outed yourself Mr Top Tips Editor!

    Got any more up your sleeve? The last lot brightened my evening :-)

  267. At 12:27 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    So there I was all looking forward to starting the new job. Then on Saturday a letter arrived.

    Seems I haven't got the job yet. Seems I have to pass an occupational health medical before I can be issued with a contract. They seem to have taken badly to my medical history...

    Lucky I'm not away on holiday somewhere nice and sunny (no, really) or I would've come back home in time to start work and, well, had a nasty surprise.

    Medical tomorrow. I hope it goes smoothly or I'll be crawling back to my old customers who I had only just informed that I wouldn't be available in the new school year.

    Some good news - my enhanced CRB check came through today. One less technicality to worry about. Could all be academic by tomorrow, though.

  268. At 12:33 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    peeps......smoothies are down at NC's...help yourselves....anyone want any chips?....just popping back to August for lunch...

  269. At 12:40 PM on 23 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Ap - Just for you (and thanks to Viz)

    SMOKERS. Take a tip from tumble dryer users. Enjoy a crafty fag at your desk by attaching a flexible vent hose to your face and running it out of the office window.

    PARENTS. When people ask how old your child is, they want to know how old he is at the moment. The phrase 'he/she will be five next birthday' involves some tricky calculations and is not very useful.

    OIL companies. Avoid having the general public pointing the global warming finger at you by putting some pictures of trees and flowers on your websites and adverts

    TAME budgies and parrots easily by replacing their grit with iron filings. By holding a large magnet, they will sit hapilly on your hand for hours.

    RYANAIR passengers. These days they let ALL passengers off the planes, thus eliminating the need to all clamber to the front the second the aircraft lands.

    And as a footnote to last one Ap:

    FLYBE PASSENGERS - Make sure that you get through Security before your plane leaves, as this will significantly shorten your jouney time.

  270. At 12:56 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Cake Maker wrote:

    Hi all,

    It seems to be getting close to lunchtime now, with the sun right over head ... who's making lunch today ? I quite fancy some steamed fish (sea bass ?), with spring onions and ginger. What's the fishing like around here ?

    I've popped a tub of home-made lemon ice-cream in the freezer and there's walnut shortbreads in the pink and white spotty tin on the table under the palms. (.. originally types in as psalms ....!) .

    Aperitif (256) .. like the sound of rounders, but maybe later when it's cooled down a little ?

  271. At 01:04 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Dear All

    The cat has bought us some flowers for looking after it!! I think it possibly had help.

    If I was as clever as n-n I'd do something smart with * and ~ and make it look like a bunch of big daisy things. I've no clue what they are but they look like big pink and purple daisies.

    I'll pop them here.

  272. At 01:10 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    Gillian, If you main PC mouse is USB plug it into the lap top.

  273. At 01:13 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    I'm right there with you Simon (260).

    Here, for those who've missed it elsewhere, is my contribution:


    A word, please, to the increasingly tetchy froggers who are ... and I know because they tell me ... spoiling the frog for many of the rest of us.

    * BEHAVE !!!!!! *

    IF you want to rant at each other in a doomed attempt to change polarised opinions, kindly adopt an old thread and do it where you won't upset those of us who enjoy a debate and regard 'agreeing to differ' as an acceptable outcome.

    IF you tend to have a favourite topic which seems to apply to every other issue, recognise it as such and take it to the Furrowed Brow where you'll be in excellent company. Every thread can't be about one thing; it's boring and people will leave!

    IF you disagree with a comment, please have the courtesy to limit your thoughts to the content, and don't make assumptions (or assertions) about the frogger who made it.

    ...and NEVER be anything but kind and lovely on the Beach!!!!!

    Remember, the frog is not like any other blog. It is a real community and unless we all accept a few compromises it'll go the way of most other blogs and end up deserted.

    If anyone thinks this is heavy handed of me, apologies -- no, really. I don't like taking on this role, and I'm probably not very good at it.

    We used to be able to have fascinating and illuminating discussions without resorting to name-calling. Surely we can manage that again?

    Either that or * I'm * off.

    Fifi

    PS I will post this again on every other thread where I see this nonsense going on. Then take a view as to whether it's worth bothering.

    :o(

  274. At 01:15 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Stewart M wrote:

    Eric, re Newsletter, Stop being south with the weather comments. Its glorious up north!

    I had an afternoon gardening yesterday and Air con is on at work cos my consulting room was like a sauna at 9.00am.

  275. At 01:24 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Eddie Mair wrote:

    Stewart - 273 - you are making my point. The weather IS grotty in London and I was asking what month it is with you. Am fully aware it's not like this everywhere and I hate it when people do that too! What month would you say it was with you?

  276. At 01:32 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Jason (267),Oh dear! I do hope it's just a formality. Rooting for you and suspecting you'll be fine -- you look like a pretty healthy specimen to me! ;-)

    DIY (268) Yum! Thansk! Just what I need this lunchtime!

    RJD (269) Hahahaha! But OH! Cruel dig! I really don't want to remember that!! That whole weekend is imprinted in great detail on my memory. Serious ups and downs!

    Cake Maker (270), I'll set things up and we'll get going at about teatime then, eh?

  277. At 01:37 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    It's definitely August or possibly early September in Derbyshire - have just had to go and remove the November layers I was wearing first thing and the sun is now shining almost as brightly there as here on the beach.

    I've erected a large parasol to protect us from the UV here, I rather like its cool cream colour. Do you think I've put it where the camels might knock it over?

    Oh, and I've refilled the ice in the fridge in case anyone wants a cool drink.

  278. At 01:39 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    We, or I'm having a time/space problem here.
    When finally I seat in front the computer, after a work day and after my wife finish working on it, it's to late for you. Going to the Cransley cam, it's off.

    Meanwhile I'm reading about loop quantum gravity and dinking coconut water to solve this. Sweet water...

    Good morning/afetrnoon.

    Guima

  279. At 01:42 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Well here in Sarf Ox*n, it actually seems a bit like August! The sun is out, there's a slight breeze to help keep thingsa cool, and people are out on the grass in front of their offices eating lunch (whilst at the same time breathing in the "lovely" fumes from the cars and lorries as they drive through Milt*n Park!)

  280. At 01:51 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    rhymes with rugger...but chip shop closed.....a rather nice coarse Ardenne pate with bacon and toast on the bar if anyone wants a nibble.

    DIY

  281. At 02:20 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Guima (278)

    yep this space time thing is a bit of a bu**er!

    though if Einstein was right and space and time do bend, so if we all heave we can all end up being in the same place at the same time...!

    all together now....:)

    DIY

  282. At 02:47 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    n-n-(251)

    Gosh- I 'm reeling after that one- it was a jig,wasn't it?

    Aperitif- good to see you back. cool enough now for rounders?

    Mollyxx

  283. At 02:48 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Sunny and hot on the Costa del Galloway!

    xx
    ed

    (and malicious as well!)

  284. At 03:06 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly, Appy, and anyone else who fancies the rounders idea.........

    * HOWZAT!!!! *

    Fifi

  285. At 03:13 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Ed I-
    Do you know Nethybridge?
    Do you know who has a house there?

    Mollyxx

  286. At 03:20 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIY(208) Sorry to hear your chippy's shut. You could always gop to mine. There's a guy works there. He's got lon blond hair, pointy ears, and a habit for staring meaningfully into the distance. I swear he's Elvish...

  287. At 04:02 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    FF (286)

    ..aah DIY(208)...the new (280).....and Elvish...LOL

    DIY
    :)

  288. At 04:09 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Good news : Eddie has sorted the Â鶹¹ÙÍøÊ×Ò³Èë¿Ú postage problem and 'it' is on its way.

    Hurrah!

    Fifi

  289. At 04:15 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly (285),

    Passed through once or twice, but don't really ken it. I ken Jimmy Saville's got a wee hoose in Glencoe and waves at every passer-by. Who's got a hoose in Nethy Bridge?

    Slainte
    ed

  290. At 04:15 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Fifi (284)

    OUT!!!!

    An 'early bath' for you!

    NEXT!!!!

    (is this a productive way for a grown woman to spend a Thursday afternoon, I ask myself.....)

    Mollyxx

  291. At 04:40 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Appy (276): Appearances can be deceptive. And that is the top and bottom of my plan for tomorrow!

  292. At 04:40 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    DIY (11Fh) it's the old careless fingers syndrome catching me out again....

    I'll just be a spectator for the rounders. Don't feel up to anything beyond lounging in a hammock today. I've set up the smoothies on the bar for the players. The spectators will have to make theirs themselves, I'm afraid, as there's not enough room to hold all the glasses on the bar...

    (SB291 or 123h)

  293. At 04:56 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Ed I (289)

    (I) ain't talkin'.

    Mollyxx

  294. At 05:02 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Aperitif wrote:

    Molly, are you still bowling? Here's my best -- Oh :-( I never could hit very far -- just first post it is then...

  295. At 05:27 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Appy

    oUT! OUT! OUT!

    I win! I win!

    not much of a game. (sniff!)

    What shall we do now? I'm booooored......

    Mollyxx

  296. At 05:33 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Thank goodness for that early bath ... I'm not well you know!

    Whatever possessed me to run for that boundary shot?

    Fifi

  297. At 05:56 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Fifi (296)

    I was going to ask how you were feeling.

    If you're still poorly I have the ultimate (better than Vodka) solution. Chilli and peanut butter soup. It's for resistant cases.

    I've just made some to beat off the grey Suffolk clouds. I'll leave it here in the vat marked "Corrosive".

    Three things to remember

    1. For God's sake don't spill it on any painted or varnished surface.
    2. It tastes better than it looks. Current one is somewhere between Tikka Masala and Madras in strength. It is vegetarian.
    3. It contains peanuts - clue was in the name.

    It must have some antibiotic action somehow, or disinfectant possibly, I've never investigated.

    I've never tested it as a slug repellent either...

    Help yourselves!!

  298. At 06:13 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Gillian wrote:

    Stewart M, thanks for the advice....daughter had already sorted me out.
    I've just tucked into all the goodies on offer, (thanks everyone) and in return have left a case of Rosado Cava which I've been slowly getting tipsy on all day in celebration of the Big Un's 21 st birthday. I have about half an hour to myself before she comes back from the hairdressers and reclaims her laptop, then we're off to have a family Chinese meal. Spare Ribs for all on the Beach later!

  299. At 06:48 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly (295)

    you can always join my Surf Boardin' School and get one ON one tuition...I'll even put me Speedos back on!

    DIY......surfs up...well sumfink is

    Gillian...where woz u gal...Cransley is all out of frogs!!!!

  300. At 06:53 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    HELP.....Mrs DIY is back on Saturday morning ( been to Tupelo, Memphis & LA for Elvis's 30th anni)..does anyone know how to get Curry AND Spag Bol stains off of....

  301. At 07:23 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    DIY

    Try the Pink One. Or spirit vinegar. Or acetone. Depends how much you value it.

    Alternatively try flowers, chocolates or something expensive and shiny. She's bound to notice that something is wrong/broken/amiss/hasn't been ticked off the to-do list she left you. We females are genetically programmed to do that. Presents let us know you've done something you need to apologise about and takes the heat out of the situation.

  302. At 07:45 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Gossipmistress wrote:

    FFred (286) but I hear he's a liar? And what about you?

  303. At 08:28 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Deepthought (John W) wrote:

    Hello all, I know, long time...

    Karen (271) Gerbera, aren't they?

    Stewart (274), Eddie (275) &c. I drove on the M4, starting in London in rain, spray etc, and by the time I reached Reading, it was.....well, beautiful. I know, "M4", "Reading" and "beautiful" don't all belong in the same sentence in normal circumstances.

    And, of course, on the drive back, the reverse was true, but "M4", "London" and "awful" *do* all belong in the same sentence.

    I'll be in the hammock over there recovering from today's events...

  304. At 08:52 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Karen wrote:

    Deepthought! Lovely to see you. I dug the paper out and you're right.

    I'm that hacked off with the weather I've decided to try and find out what it feels like to do an OU assignment "early" rather than "at midnight on the last possible day before you need to post it."

    Any ideas for good films to go and see this weekend if it is just going to rain?

  305. At 09:04 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    Ed i (289)
    Did you get the reference? Shall I post another clue?

    DIY(290 something)
    Nice idea but I'm not too good at coming up for air...
    Speedos ? on? Nice touch!
    Sounds like Mrs DIY might be in for a nice suprise :-)

    Mollyxx

  306. At 09:49 PM on 23 Aug 2007, RJD wrote:

    Molly (205) - Bet he doesn't call it Maggie's Farm!

  307. At 10:10 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Anne P. wrote:

    Karen (304) I can definitely recommend The Bourne Ultimatum, as long as you've already seen the other two. We've just got back from seeing it and it has some very contemporary resonances. Jason Bourne, a sort of thinking man's James Bond. And Matt Damon's pretty good too.

  308. At 10:36 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Deepthought (John W) wrote:

    Karen (204),

    Since I don't have a TV, and am famous at TVLC or whatever it's called these days for *not* needing a TV licence (if I needed a radio licence, I'd be first in the queue) , perhaps "The Simps*ns", which I understand to be a witty film on a number of levels. Like with VATman, I'm first in line for their attention because they cannot believe my (real) situation, so therefore always under survaliance. (No TV, and exporting manufacturing industry; say a lot, doesn't it)

    As for assignments, I'm of the age that people got hacked off with me doing mine on my typewriter at 3am. The assignments got remarkably good marks, but more importantly the typewriter is still in daily action - typing airwaybills for F*dex (other courier companies are available, and usually used). Ribbons are getting hard to get.

  309. At 10:47 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Hello Deepthought! How are you?

    It's been early May in Merseyside today - sunny and warm with a light breeze and maypole dancers on the village green. (Ok, I made that last bit up) :-P

  310. At 10:50 PM on 23 Aug 2007, nikki noodle wrote:

    Molly (295)

    how about this -
    Add another couple of lines if you like!!

    There once was a young lass who stated
    "I'm bored - now, who'll make me elated?"
    Up popped DIYman
    .
    .


    n-n
    xx

  311. At 11:08 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    RJD 306

    Hope not.....
    Think, perhaps, an old blue(s) Zimmer for a Working Man and bob's your uncle.

    You know! Keep mum......

    Mollyxx


  312. At 11:21 PM on 23 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Eric, Its summer up here, but I never got back to the blog till now. Work did get in the way of the blog this afternoon. Its just not on! People wanting to have eyes examined when I want to do other stuff.

    We have a great logic game got for the kids. Do a web search for Rush Hour to see an online demo

    And there is an online version of lemmings. That takes me back.

  313. At 11:43 PM on 23 Aug 2007, Molly wrote:

    n-n

    There once was a young lass who stated
    'I'm bored- now who'll make me elated?'
    Up popped DIY man
    Said ''Yes, Molly- I can-
    M' Speedos? They're elasticated...

    Mollyxx'

  314. At 12:51 AM on 24 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Molly,

    Help! You know I'm clueless.

    xx
    ed
    DIT/Molly Luv the limrick!

    Bright starry sky here tonight with crystalline milky way and moon already gone. One last Guinness.....

    xx
    ed

  315. At 01:08 AM on 24 Aug 2007, ValP wrote:

    Oh, I missed the Rounders. More tomorrow? It'll be Friday?

    Molly - I thought it was his brother's?

  316. At 01:22 AM on 24 Aug 2007, Frances O wrote:

    Stop press! I'm deserting the Beach for a real one in N Wales. Last-minute decision after fraught week for me and friend whose cancer, it turns out, hasn't returned with a vengeance. It's still there and will win in the end, but we're grabbing the good while it's there.

    Think of me, dear beachfrogs, in a caravan (my first time!!) getting all twitchy at about two minutes to five. "Oh, can we listen to R4? It's just, oh, to keep up with the news."

    Meanwhile my fingers will be itching to get frogging...

    Might even bring back a nice pic of rain-lashed surroundings for Eric.

    Fifi, I'll be asking you for that email addie when I get back.

    Now stop putting off that packing! (Sez my conscience). You really can fit it all into the one suitcase.

    OK: stuff in case it's sunny; stuff in case it's cold; stuff in case it rains; stuff for staying indoors; stuff for going on long walks; oh, and stuff to read.

    Wish me luck!

  317. At 12:14 AM on 25 Aug 2007, wrote:

    Frances O - is it too late to wish you Bon Voyage? I'm just catching up here. Don't forget the polka dot shoes - btw I've just bought a brown and white pair too ;o)

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