SmileyRose Ramblings by Frances Rose Agnes Napper (She/Her)

Technology Has Advanced In Just A Few Years

Apr 16th, 2026

I can recall learning to touch type on one of these typewriters only a few years ago.

I learned to type on our family typewriter. It was an old Imperial model, which required frequent changes of the ribbon. If you wanted a copy of your letters, you would use carbon paper. Making a mistake was quite challenging; correction involved using a typewriter rubber, which left small smudges on the page, or Tippex, which left white ridges as it dried.

It is remarkable how much technology has advanced since then.

Technology: We initially found electric typewriters impressive, then moved on to word processors, and later experienced significant excitement with the advent of personal computers. What next one wonders? 🙂

Well, men and women can fly to the moon now. Therefore, will modern technology rapidly change change over the next 20 years? Watch this space! 😃
The White Cliffs of Dover and Beneath You’re Beautiful.

Apr 13th, 2026
As some of you know, I love to song. Beneath is me, singing two beautiful duets. You can listen to them both if you click on the links below. 🙂
https://www.smule.com/sing-recording/143712325_5200557975

2.

https://www.smule.com/sing-recording/2454748740_5200548487
A Walk At Ferry Meadows

Apr 12th, 2026

This afternoon was glorious. I went for a walk at Ferry Meadows. The heavens opened just as I stepped into the car to drive home later. 😀

Phew! That was lucky. 🙂
I am Maximus – Grand National 2026

Apr 11th, 2026

The 9/1 favourite “I am Maximus” became the first horse since Red Rum, to win the Grand National, having lost, but came back to win the title again! The horse was ridden by Paul Townsend and trained by Willie Mullins. I really wished I’d backed this horse. 😁

There’s always next year. 😉
Questions & Answers

Apr 11th, 2026

Q. Do you use/post anyone else’s photographs on your blogsite, Frances?

A. No, I do not use photographs belonging to others; I only share my own work. Sharing images created by others would contradict the purpose of showcasing my own artwork. While I appreciate and admire the art and photography of others, I only ever post my own creations. I remain true to myself and do not claim to be anyone else.

Anyone gaining access to any of my photographs and who posts them on the internet, they all owe me! This is the only place on the internet, where I post my own photographs publicly. The other photographs are private.
Rockin’ Robin

Apr 11th, 2026

Shortly after my father died, this little Robin used to frequent my garden. He’d sometimes come very close as I sat in my garden reading. He was very persistent and he was extremely friendly.

A robin appearing after the passing of an individual is often regarded as a spiritual sign, symbolising that a departed loved one is nearby, observing over you, or offering reassurance.

A robin came at break of day,
Soft light upon his feathered grey,
A blush of red upon his chest,
A tiny heart that beats its best.
He hopped along the garden ground,
In quiet search, without a sound,
Then paused beneath the waking sky,
As morning whispered, drifting by.
With eyes so bright and head held high,
He sang a song both sweet and shy,
A melody so pure, so clear,
It felt like hope was drawing near.
Through winter’s chill and springtime bloom,
He dances lightly past the gloom,
A gentle soul, so brave, so small,
Yet it carries warmth enough for all.
Oh, little robin, stay awhile,
And grace the day with song and smile,
For in your wings and ruby hue,
Lives something tender, kind, and true.
Me Living In Penang As A Child

Apr 11th, 2026

As some of you know, my father was in the British Royal Air Force. I lived in Penang, Malaysia, for almost 3 years as a child back in the 1960’s. The weather was very hot.

Here is a photograph of me as a child, sporting a very good suntan. I attended the Minden Barracks Primary School. I was a very angelic child. 🙂

The photograph below is a picture of me in Malaysia (left) with my best friend at the time, Lesley Turner (right). Lesley’s father was in the Royal Air Force, too. Her mum Aunty Anne was lovely. She had an identical twin sister. Lol, i can remember the funny trick she played on me when we lived in Salisbury, Wiltshire. I went to call for Lesley, on my way to school, and she sent her twin sister to greet me. I was chatting to Aunty Anne as usual, then she appeared in the kitchen, and I thought I was seeing double! It was quite funny as I had no idea she had a twin! 🙂

The green and white checked dress I am wearing was our school uniform, and Lesley and I swapped footwear. I am wearing her flip-flops, and she is wearing my slip-on shoes. 😂
It Looks So Lovely

Apr 11th, 2026

This butterfly stands outside the Peterborough City Hospital. It looks so lovely. 🙂
Howdy :)

Apr 8th, 2026
This is a photograph of me wearing a Cowboy hat, which I bought during my visit to San Diago, in America. The photograph was captured of me at a barbecue event, at a ranch where I was staying. It was a fun event. We had a country and western band playing in the background as we ate lunch. 🙂

I am still missing some photographs from a wonderful day I spent with my sister during a pony trekking day at Stapleford Park. I was delighted to ride a beautiful white horse named Porridge. I feel quite disappointed that those pictures are still missing as i had a lovely photograph lf Porridge. 😢

Sometimes, I like to be called señorita. 😉 🙂

This was a sheriff I met at Calico. He showed me his pistol. 😉

I captured this photograph at the ranch. Lol, he bears a striking resemblance to Sylvester Stallone, don’t you think? 😁

Omg! Could it be Clint Eastwood? 😁
```
Haha, that's where those wagon wheels got to! 🙂
```
My Lovely Roses

Apr 7th, 2026
Toasted Marshmallow Flavour Meringue Kisses

Apr 7th, 2026

These are so yummy! They’re new! I picked these up from Tesco today as a little treat. They are so yummy. 🙂
Artemis II – Nasa

Apr 7th, 2026

It has been absolutely wonderful following the launch of the spaceship. I watched the countdown live on my mobile.

Artemis II

https://www.nasa.gov/mission/artemis-ii/

Here I am in my spacesuit 🙂

Artemis II “is scheduled to splash down off the coast of San Diego at approximately The scheduled splashdown of Artemis II in the Pacific Ocean, at 8.07 pm ET

5.07pm PT;

12.07am GMT

on Friday, April 10th or Saturday 11 April British time according to NASA

The spacecraft is expected to reach a whopping 23,839 mph as it speeds back down to Earth before safely splashing down in the Pacific Ocean.

2330hrs (gmt)- They are close to splash down.

God bless them.

I stayed awake last night to welcome the 4 astronauts home. I watched splashdown live. It was so incredible. They were all given the ok by each of the four medical officers assigned to each of them. The whole mission was approximately

9 days, 1 hour, and 32 seconds. It was a Mission Possible 😉

I watched them set up the porch around Integrity, as the Orian Four all slowly emerged to eagerly await the rescue mission, which entailed them all being safely hoisted into the helicopters.

Welcome home. 🙂
The Bride

Apr 6th, 2026

I am quite excited as my Exochorda or Machrabtha, also known as ‘The Bride’ (Pearl Bush), will be flowering soon. It has an abundance of little white flowers on it. This is mine looking quite splendid in 2004. 🙂
Questions and Answers

Apr 6th, 2026

Q. Are you a male or a female?

A. Lol, I was born a female, and I still identify as a female. I have always had very feminine ways. I’m not likely to change sex. I quite like being me. 🙂

During my childhood, I was always very feminine, enjoying dresses and skirts; however, I occasionally wear leggings and jeans for comfort these days, particularly when I am at home . I have generally maintained a feminine appearance, favouring long hair. Currently, my hair is shoulder-length and has a dark brown with reddish hue. Overall, I consider myself to have a feminine presentation.

I do not require anyone else to be me, as I believe I am quite capable of presenting myself effectively.
Question and Answers

Apr 6th, 2026

Q. Do you care about what others think about the way you look Frances?

A. No, not at all. If an individual has a slim physique, they may be regarded as underweight. If they are slightly overweight, they might be considered fat. If someone does not have a favourable opinion of you, they may resort to mockery or ridicule. You can’t win.

When my children were young, I liked the public figures or models who maintained a healthy appearance rather than extreme thinness. My youngest daughter believed she needed to resemble a stick insect to gain acceptance. It is important that children enjoy nutritious meals during their growth periods rather than resort to unhealthy dieting due to media influence. My aim was for them to maintain a healthy and balanced weight. It can be quite concerning for a parent when they notice their child or children not eating properly because they feel pressured to conform to a particular appearance. I was a concerned full-time mother.

Generally, an individual’s appearance is not of primary concern. What is more significant is the influence that media exerts on our children. This may be the reason I have a particular fondness for the 1970s, when there were only four television channels, which were more selective regarding the content they broadcast. During that period, programmes were often of better quality.

Times have changed considerably. 🙂
Love Is Like A Butterfly

Apr 6th, 2026
You Should Never Judge A Book By Its Cover

Apr 6th, 2026

I believe it is important not to form judgments about individuals without taking the time to get to know them. People possess a range of qualities across all areas of life, and appearances can be deceiving. By making an effort to understand someone personally, you may discover valuable insights and qualities that were not immediately apparent.
Questions and Answers

Apr 6th, 2026

Q. Frances, I have noticed that there are some pretty good photographs on your blogsite. Does anyone else have access to any of your photographs, Frances?

A. In a nutshell, “No.” If anyone else has access to any of my photographs, then they are out of order as I have not given anyone else my permission to use any of them. They are for my website only, and NOBODY else should be using them!

I have never earned a single penny for any of my photographs. Nobody has ever offered me money for any of my photographs. Therefore, my photographs are all out of bounds. Nobody should be using them. This is my own website, not associated with anyone else.

Anyone using any of my photos, all owe me. My price, and not theirs!

None of my photographs are displayed publicly anywhere else, but on my blogsite (here). Anyone else displaying my photographs anywhere else, they all owe me! All photographs here are viewing only.

Q. Why do you use a black and white website?

A. Because it is easier to read and the photographs look much nicer on a black background. I notice that you do not ask the same questions to the newspaper publishers! A newspaper is black and white. Please stop being so pathetic re the colours I use here. It has no reflection re my nationality. I like the colours black and white. I am not so stupid, like some, to associate the colour of my photographs or blogsite with my background.

Frances x
Hair!

Apr 6th, 2026

I am trying to grow my hair presently. However, this is a hair colour I loved on me. This is me about 3 years ago!
Half A Sixpence

Apr 6th, 2026

I went for a lovely walk at Ferry Meadows yesterday, and I photographed this lovely carousel. It reminded me of how we loved to ride on the carousel when both of my daughters were younger. They loved the fair, just as I did as a young girl. My ex-husband, J Alan, and I took them to the fair regularly. I often frequented the Stamford Fair.

It also reminded me of the film Half a Sixpence, which starred Tommy Steele and Julia Foster. I loved this musical film so much. It is one of my early film memories. 🙂

This is me riding on the carousel with my daughter Kitty when she was younger. 🙂

This little catouselnwas photographed by me at Peterborough Cathedral.

Me – Frances

“If the rains got to fall”
You’ll Be In My Heart

Apr 5th, 2026

This is a beautiful song, I love.

“You’ll Be In My Heart”

You Tarzan, me Jane 😀
Band On The Run 💚💙🩷

Apr 5th, 2026

Another song I absolutely love by

“Band On The Run” by Paul McCartney and Wings. 🙂
Softly As You Leave You🩷🧡

Apr 5th, 2026

This is a beautiful song, Sir Cliff Richard
Easter Blessings

Apr 5th, 2026

Candles to remember loved ones.

As we remember the resurrection of Your Son,
fill our hearts with peace, joy, and renewed faith.
Help us to walk in kindness,
to share love freely,
and to trust in Your promise of new beginnings.
Bless our homes, our families, and those we hold dear.
May we carry the spirit of Easter within us,
today and always.

Enjoy your Easter Eggs all.

F x
Questions & Answers

Apr 5th, 2026

What job would you do for free?

That is a very good question. I previously volunteered at a local pre-school when the children were young, dedicating my time on a voluntary basis. I sincerely believe that individuals should consider contributing their valuable time by volunteering and engaging in community activities, particularly when they are not currently employed. It can be very rewarding, and it looks great on your CV when looking for employment.

F x
Remembering Rosie – My Pet Cockatiel

Apr 4th, 2026

Rosie

I often think about Rosie, my pet cockatiel. She is the reason I joined Twitter. Rosie had a charming personality and was quite amusing to watch. She frequently perched on the top of my head and gently nibbled at my ears whilst I worked at my computer beside her cage. She chattered away happily.

I once sent an email to our local dj Rob, at Rutland Radio, to ask if he’d mention her name on the radio. I often left the radio on for her to listen to, whilst I was out. When she heard my car return, she chirped very loudly with excitement. Then one day, she struggled to climb onto her perch to bid me goodnight, as she customarily did. The following day, she passed away. I was deeply saddened by her death. She lived for nearly ten years and is greatly missed. My mum helped me to bury her in the garden. It was so sad. RIP Rosie.

I can remember taking so many beautiful photos of Rosie, with her wings spread. She looked so beautiful. I am sad that someone could remove my lovely photographs of her. It was bad enough coping with her death, but how could someone take my memories of her away. 😢

A Poem

A cockateil bird on Twilight Wing,
With feathers dipped in shimmering spring,
It sips from blossoms, sweet and bright,
And dances through the velvet night.
Its colours swirl like drinks well-spun,
Of orange flame and setting sun,
With hints of berry, gold, and lime,
A living toast to joy and time.
It flutters near with sugared grace,
A crystal gleam upon its face,
Its song—like ice in glasses clear—
A melody we long to hear.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Apr 3rd, 2026

This is definitely one of my favourite British films. 🙂

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

My parents resided in British India. Did you know there are approximately 19.9 million to 23 million Roman Catholic Indians, representing around 1.55% to 1.57% of the total population. While Christians make up about 2.3% of India’s population overall, the Roman Catholic Church is the single largest denomination within the Indian Christian community.

My parents were both practising Christians, with one originating from a traditional British background and the other from a Christian family of Indian heritage.

(Orange and White).

Both of my parents adapted to the British language and culture after they relocated from British India to England. They were both Roman Catholics and exclusively spoke English as their primary language.
Good Friday – Let Us Pray 🙏

Apr 3rd, 2026

Today is Good Friday. It is not a day of celebration, not in the traditional sense but a crucial, sombre remembrance within Holy Week. Good Friday is a solemn Christian observance honouring the crucifixion, suffering, and death of Jesus Christ at Calvary.

Today, I plan to eat some Hot Cross Buns, with my daughter Catherine. Hot cross buns are an age-old tradition, traditionally baked to commemorate the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on Good Friday. My entire family was brought up as Roman Catholics. My background is Christian. Both of my parents were both Roman Catholics.

Today, my daughter gave me a lovely treat. I love her so much. Thank you, Kitty. 🩷

A Good Friday, Prayer 🙏

Lord Jesus Christ,
on this sacred day, we remember Your great sacrifice.
You bore the weight of our sins
and gave Your life out of love for the world.
Help us to stand at the foot of the cross
with humble and grateful hearts.
Teach us to understand the depth of Your mercy
and to live in the light of Your forgiveness.
As we reflect on Your suffering,
strengthen us to carry our own crosses with faith,
to love others as You have loved us,
and to walk in obedience to Your will.
May this day of sorrow lead us to hope,
and prepare our hearts for the joy of Your resurrection.
We thank You, Lord,
for Your endless grace and redeeming love.
Amen.🙏

I chose this hymn because my Father’s funeral was at Easter weekend, 9 years ago. He was a choir boy at church in his youth. This is one of my favourite Easter hymns as a young girl.

There is a green hill far away….
My Favourite Film Directors

Apr 2nd, 2026

Q. Who are your favourite film directors, Frances?

A. 1. Without a doubt, Steven Spielberg

2. James Cameron

3. Ron Howard
When Someone Keeps Comparing You With Others….

Apr 2nd, 2026

When someone keeps comparing you with other women and he makes you feel measured, then maybe he’s not the man for you. You need to be with someone who values you as a person. Someone who makes you feel special always. .
Jarassic Frances ;)

Apr 1st, 2026

I absolutely love the Jarassic World films. 🙂

I captured this photograph at Springfields Spalding a few years ago

Springfields – me Dancing

I captured this photograph at Flag Fen during one of my photography days.

This was. Captured during a day at Shepreth Wildlife Park.

I captured this photograph at The National History Museum, London

This photograph was captured at the Peterborough Cathedral.

When dawn was young and wild and wide,
And silence held a roar,
The earth awoke in ancient breath
Unlike all days before.
Through tangled green and shadowed light,
Where mist and sunlight blend,
Great creatures moved like living hills
From forest’s edge to end.
Their voices rolled like distant storms,
Low thunder through the ground,
A language lost to passing time,
Yet once the only sound.
The hunter’s gaze, the grazer’s grace,
A dance of tooth and leaf,
Where life was fierce and fleeting still,
And death was never brief.
No footprints led to where we stand,
No trace of humankind—
Just echoes pressed in stone and dust,
A world we cannot find.
Yet close your eyes… you’ll feel it stir,
That ancient pulse, that glow—
A Jurassic whisper in your bones
From long, long ago.
Evergreen :)

Mar 31st, 2026

I am Blue and White. (One parent)😀

My father died 9 years ago. Both of my parents were British.
SmileyRose

Mar 31st, 2026

This is one of my very first social media photographs, just over 20 years ago. 🙂
Pistachio Gelato Ice Cream Cups

Mar 30th, 2026

I bought these from Aldi.

They get the big thumbs up. 👌👍
Majestic Looking Tiger

Mar 30th, 2026

Woburn Zoo

I photographed this Tiger at Woburn Zoo.

There is something very majestic about this Tiger.

Another film I absolutely loved was “Life of Pi.”
A Love So Great, A Love Like No Other – To Make You Feel My Love

Mar 30th, 2026

A Love So Great

A love so great, it fills the sky,
Soft as dawn, yet fierce as fire,
It lives in every whispered sigh,
In every hope, in each desire.
It bends but never breaks apart,
A steady light through darkest days,
It wraps itself around the heart,
In quiet, everlasting ways.
No distance dims, no time can fade
The warmth it leaves, the truth it knows,
For even shadows cannot shade
A love so great—it only grows.

——‐————————–

A Love Like No Other

A love like no other, quiet yet strong,
A place in the heart where you’ve always belonged.
Not loud in its presence, yet deep in its stay,
A light that still guides you when skies turn to grey.
It asks for no glory, no grand display,
Just truth in the moments we give it each day.
In laughter, in silence, in all that we share,
It lives in the knowing that someone is there.
No measure can hold it. No words can define,
It’s gentle, enduring—both yours and mine.
A love like no other, steady and true,
A rare kind of magic… found only in you.

—‐——————————
The Notebook

Mar 30th, 2026

This evening, I watched the film “The Notebook,” which starred Ryan Gosling, Rachel Mcadam, and James Garner. It has been a long time since I cried watching a film. However, this film was able to profoundly evoke an emotional response. It managed to tug on every heart string.

My favourite quote from the film is:

“I am who I am because of you. You are every reason, every hope, and every dream I’ve ever had, and no matter what happens to us in the future, every day we are together is the greatest day of my life.” 😭

The Notebook ❤️‍🩹

It was such a beautiful film from start to finish. I loved it all.

Watching a film like this reminded me of the reasons why I truly enjoy visiting the cinema. It gets Top Marks.

The most beautiful scene in the film is when: Allie and Noah are in a rowing boat together, surrounded by the lovely white swans.

The film depicted the story of two individuals whose love was so profound that it remained unbreakable, right to the very end.

My version of the same song. 🙂

https://www.smule.com/sing-recording/1127383980_4729251053
The School of Rock

Mar 29th, 2026

I am currently watching the comedy film “The School of Rock”. It is thoroughly entertaining, featuring Jack Black, whose performance is particularly amusing. This film has been a welcomed distraction today and is greatly lifting my spirits. 😃

This film reminds me a little of the film “Kindergarten Cop,” but without the policing. It starred Arnold Schwarzenegger. Another good actor.

It also reminds me of the film “About A Boy,” which starred Hugh Grant. 🙂
“All About You”

Mar 29th, 2026

I ❤️ this song. 😀
About Me

Mar 29th, 2026

When you were five, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A teacher or an air hostess. When I was 10 yrs old, I loved photography, maybe even a photographer. I always had a good eye. I did not become any of those things. However, I quite like the thought of doing all three.
A Delicious Lamb Giro

Mar 28th, 2026

This evening, I visited Tesco and I noticed a van parked outside. It was named, “Shah’s Halal Food.” There was a queue of people waiting for food, so I decided to try something myself. I opted for the Lamb Gyro. I genuinely mean this — it was exceptionally tasty. It was not greasy and was cooked to a high standard. I observed the preparation process and can honestly say it was one of the most enjoyable takeaway meals I have eaten in quite some time. I thoroughly recommend it. Thank you also for the tropical iced drink; it was greatly appreciated.
Samosas

Mar 28th, 2026

Yum! I bought lamb and chicken Samosas the other day. They were delicious. I bought them from our small M&S outlet. I gave them the big thumbs up! 🙂

I took one into work with me for my lunch. They were quite filling.
Don’t Forget The Clocks…

Mar 28th, 2026
Michael McIntyre…

Mar 28th, 2026

I find my spirits lifted every time I listen to him. He’s so funny. 😀
Misheard Lyrics – Peter Kay

Mar 28th, 2026

Hilarious. 🤣 Every time I watch this, I chuckle to myself. 🤣

This reminds me of when I thought the band The Police were singing about Sue Lawley, the Broadcaster and TV presenter. The song was “So Lonley,” and I kept wondering why Sue Lawley. 🤣
The Visitor

Mar 28th, 2026

I really love this song. 🩷
Twin Flames

Mar 28th, 2026

Two souls once whole, then torn apart,
Sent wandering worlds with the same soft heart,
Through time and lives, through joy and ache,
Each step a path the other would take.
A glance, a spark—no need for name,
For deep within, you feel the same,
A knowing older than the stars,
A pull that heals the hidden scars.
You are my mirror, fierce and true,
Reflecting all I hide from view,
In you I find both storm and peace,
A wild unrest, a sweet release.
We meet, we part, we rise, we fall,
Yet fate still answers when we call,
For love like this won’t fade or end—
It bends, it breaks, but learns to mend.
Not just a flame, but fire divine,
A sacred thread through space and time,
Two halves that wander yet remain
Forever bound… one soul, one flame.
Beautiful Flowers – Supermarket Flowers by Ed Sheeran – Remembering Dad.

Mar 27th, 2026

Honouring a father who has passed involves treasuring his enduring legacy of love, resilience, and the lessons that continue to influence our daily lives. Although he is no longer with us, his presence endures in heartfelt memories, shaping our values and offering comfort through the enduring, meaningful moments we shared.

It has been 9 years. I miss you, dad. My dad was F de.

I was named after him. I am F de aNa
Rose Pearl Strawberries

Mar 26th, 2026

They are a very distinctive variety characterised by their pale pink to white skin and red seeds. They taste so delicious. 😊
My Holiday 2026

Mar 18th, 2026

Sometimes, going away on your own can be fabulous and very therapeutic. I loved my own company, but it was also nice to chat yo a few friendly people on my travels. It would have been nice to go away with a friend or a member of my family. However, all of the people I know were all working. Rather than stay at home, I decided it would be good to have a nice little getaway, just to chill out on my own. Somewhere lovely and peaceful.🙂

Frances

My holiday began by staying at this lovely hotel called Petwood. My room was just lovely. The staff were very nice. 🙂

This was a quaint little Police Station

I then headed off to my next destination, to continue my lovely holiday.

The ceiling in the tree house. It was beautiful x

My favourite place to relax.

My beautiful photo of the day.

Beautiful – My view from my room

So delicious. Salmon Encroute.

I loved doing G&T’s

Relaxing in a hammock

Feeling so relaxed.

The birds love this!

😀

At the end of the day

Bags all packed
Questions and Answers

Apr 8th, 2026

Q. Is your website/blogsite your own?

A. Yes! All of the photographs were all captured by myself. I love photography. It is the only place I display any of my photographs publicly. If my photos are displayed anywhere else, then I want to know why! That person will then owe me!

They have no rights to any of my photos. I have never sold any, not yet! All of the posts on here and on my website are my own.

If I do not get paid for any of my photographs, why should anyone else get paid for any of them!

I do not display all of my photographs on my website. However, neither should anyone else be displaying any of them either! It means that they are private!

The photographs displayed here are for public viewing.

If I choose to display any of my photographs on Facebook or anywhere else, they would be private and appear here on my website first.