I have just popped to the hairdresser to have my hair trimmed.
Costa Coffee time. 🙂
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Costa Coffee Time -
At the end of this month, it will mark the 8th anniversary of my father’s passing. You are always remembered dad, and you will always be in my heart.
Remembering Dad
is not always tears.
Sometimes, it is laughter
that surprises you,
rising up from an old memory
like it never left. -
It is a lovely and heartfelt poem that evokes the enduring strength of a love that once was. 😪
If you wake and find that I am not there anymore,
do not let your heart be startled by the quiet.
Do not search the corners of the room
for the echo of my breathing
or the warmth pressed into the pillow beside you.
I have not vanished
I have simply slipped
into the soft places we once filled together.
I will be the hush before the morning birds begin,
the pale gold stretching across your curtains,
the whisper of kettle steam rising like a prayer.
If you wake and find that I am not there anymore,
place your hand upon your chest.
Feel that steady rhythm?
I have left a piece of my love
beating there with you.
Look outside.
If the wind brushes your cheek, that is me
still gentle.
If the sun lingers longer on your face, that is me
still devoted.
And if your eyes grow heavy with missing,
remember this:
love does not end at doorways,
nor does it dissolve into absence.
It changes shape.
So wake, my dear, without fear.
Though I may not stand beside you in flesh,
I am woven through your mornings,
threaded through your memories,
and resting quietly
in every breath you take. -
It was a pleasure to see the band Blue on the TV programme “Piano Rooms” recently. They have consistently been one of my favourite bands. They performed a selection of excellent songs during the programme.
I recall taking my daughter, Catherine, to see them perform live in concert a few years ago at the Peterborough Embankment. They were truly outstanding.
Here are a couple of my favourite “Blue” songs.
Blue consists of four band members:
Lee
Anthony
Duncan
Simon
They are fabulous singers.
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This afternoon, I went for a walk at the Central Park. I captured these lovely little flowers, which i believe are white crocus.
Arty This is beautiful.
Spring arrives on whispered light,
gold poured gently through the sky,
touching earth with tender hands
and teaching sleeping roots to try.
Blossoms loosen from their dreams,
petals breathing blush and cream,
while daffodils in yellow gowns
step brightly from the winter’s seam.
The air is sweet with second chances,
cool but warm with promise too—
as if the world has turned a page
and written hope in shades of dew.
Birdsong stitches dawn today,
a silver thread of joy set free;
and every breeze that lifts your hair
says, “Begin again with me.”
Spring is not just bloom and sun—
it’s courage wrapped in fragile things,
a quiet heart that dares to beat
after frost has clipped its wings.
So open wide your waiting soul,
let light fall softly where it may—
for even the longest winter yields
to springtime’s gentle, brave ballet. -
Oh, daffodils, so small, so strong,
You sing the earth’s returning song,
And in your gold, we see once more
That hope is what the spring is for.
The beautiful daffodils this morning, near to where I live. They were dancing in the wind.
I am #Golden 🙂
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Why are individuals often judged based on their race? One may be born in England, speak only English, and identify as Christian—essentially identical to anyone else who describes themselves as white British—apart from the colour of their skin. Why must people be categorised or segregated in such a manner? This can only lead to hostility. Why can’t we all behave as mature adults and learn to appreciate someone for their kindness, regardless of their colour, gender, religion, or background? One of the reasons we wore a school uniform was to promote a sense of equality, ensuring everyone dressed similarly. If someone does not wish to forge friendships with individuals of a different colour, that is a personal choice, but I am tired of the division into ‘us’ and ‘them’. Some people simply seek to be accepted and treated fairly. I love quality. I love nice people.
If you did not want everyone living in the same country, why allow people to move here in the first place?
If you owned a piece of land and someone unwanted, tried to claim it, would you just let them go ahead and take your piece of land? If you allow people to come into the country, you have no room to complain!
F x
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I was reflecting on some of the joyful moments I have shared with my daughters. The photographs of their smiling faces bring back fond memories—Christmas 2025 was particularly memorable because Lauren came home for Christmas. It felt warm, just like the old times. 🙂 #TreasuredMemories
For memories are small lanterns,
glowing in the corridors of time,
whispering,
You were there.
It mattered.Hold on to your memories gently—not to live in the past, but to warm your hands when the present feels cold.
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I love this FAN! So beautiful. My daughter arrived back in Australia this morning, #ValentinesDay, after she visited us here in the UK. Her boyfriend looked so pleased to see her as he greeted her with flowers. That is just so beautiful.
I ❤️ you Lauren. I’m so glad you arrived home safely. Xx
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When you are feeling happy and relaxed, you have that look. 🙂
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Lol, me wearing my cute “Valentine Bunny Ears” a few years ago.
The 14th February is fast approaching. I have not made any definite plans for this Valentines Day. However, I would admit to being a hopeless romantic.
I love romance. Here are a few tantalising and romantic poems to get you in the mood for Valentines Day:
________________________
If love had a sound,
it would be your name
spoken softly
at the end of a long day.
If love had a place,
it would be the space
between your heartbeat and mine,
where the world finally rests.______________________
I don’t want you politely.
I want you like fire wants air,
like night wants the moon
close enough to touch.
I want the ache,
the pull,
the way my name sounds different
when it’s on your lips.________________________
Come closer.
Close enough
that my thoughts blur,
that desire speaks first
and reason never gets a turn.
Kiss me
like this moment
is the only one
that matters._______________________
Stand that close again
and tell me you don’t feel it—
the heat rising,
the way restraint trembles
between us.
I want your mouth
hovering just long enough
to be cruel,
just close enough
to drive me wild._______________________
I want you slowly—
the kind of slow
that hurts in the best way.
Eyes lingering,
breaths colliding,
every second stretching
until wanting you
is louder than thought.
This is the fire
that doesn’t rush.
It consumes.______________________
Take your time with me.
I want the unhurried version of you—
the one who knows
desire ripens best
when touched slowly.
Let minutes melt,
let anticipation do the work,
until wanting becomes
a soft, exquisite ache._______________________
Your voice finds me
in the quiet places,
low, careful,
as if my heart
might bruise if spoken to loudly.
I hold every word
like it’s meant
only for me.😀
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A lovely lunch at the Tap & Kitchen, Oundle, this afternoon. Good food, good company.
The venue had a warm feel to it. 🙂
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I’m eating a juicy Mango. 🙂
Mango -
Me just a couple of years ago, looking “Pretty in Pink.”
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A mother’s role
is part shelter, part sky.
She is the place you land
when the world feels sharp,
and the one who gently opens her hands
when it’s time for you to fly.
She teaches without speeches—
how to love, how to fall and rise,
how strength can be quiet
and still unbreakable.
A mother worries in silence,
cheers in the loudest rooms,
and carries her children in her heart
long after, they no longer need her arms.
And when she lets go,
it isn’t because love has grown smaller—
it’s because it has grown brave. -
My daughter Lauren and I recently enjoyed a wonderful day in London. We attended a performance of “The Lion King” at the Lyceum Theatre; the production was truly exceptional, vibrant, and we thoroughly appreciated the music.
Before the show, we had drinks at the Punch & Judy in Covent Garden.
We dined at the Indian restaurant, Paro, which served a very delightful meal.
Finally, we enjoyed drinks at the Royal Ballet and Opera House.
Lauren and I shared this day together, and we created special memories; it was a meaningful time for mother and daughter. 🙃🙂
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Another Netlix film I really liked.
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I have watched two fabulous films on Netflix recently. I loved both “The Perfect Pairing” and “A Beautiful Life“
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They are lovely and colourful. -
The Chronicles Of Narnia – The Magicians Nephew – this 2005 film is a prequel to The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, later written by C S Lewis. This was my favourite childhood book.
Narnia -
I had a most pleasant afternoon with my two daughters, shopping in my hometown of Stamford. It had been quite some time since my last visit. Since the passing of Dad and Marion, I have not had many opportunities to return. As a result, we thoroughly enjoyed our walk around the town. We also shared a lovely lunch at the Cosy Club.
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I have watched both films this week. Both were very watchable.
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Yum! I have made a new concoction, which consists of bay leaves, a cinnamon stick, half a lemon, and a teaspoon of honey.
Boil in a pan of hot water, and then add the ingredients. It’s a soothing herbal tea that is caffeine-free. I love it!
Fx
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Yummy Haggis -
I purchased some flowers to brighten up my home.They’re really lovely. 🙂
Flowers. 🙂 
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I had a very enjoyable day in St Ives with my daughter Catherine. We had lunch at a café overlooking the Quay and then explored some of the antique shops. It was a very pleasant day.
I love days like this one. It was very relaxing.
It was funny. Catherine and I sat down to watch two episodes of “Absolutely Fabulous” this evening. I couldn’t stop laughing. 😂
St Ives, Cambs -
I went to the cinema to watch this film when it was first released in 2013 and I loved the film. It stars Jennifer Lawrence. 🙂
Catness – C a Tom Nes Smiley
I am #Agnes (my middle name). 🙂So, like my daughter and I.
My daughter and I, 2013. 
Me in 2013 🙂 -
Q. Are you very trusting of a partner, Frances?
A. Ooh. That’s a good question. 🙂 It is unfair to assume that an individual does not trust their partner. Trust levels are highly dependent on the individual concerned. If someone is in a relationship and engages in infidelity,
it is understandable that their partner might be less trusting of them. Discovering that a partner has been unfaithful can be profoundly upsetting for those who are in love.
While I was in a relationship with someone, I read the “Fifty Shades” trilogy, which includes some explicit reading that stimulates the imagination. This raises questions about whether engaging with such material constitutes a breach of trust. Where should the boundary be drawn between maintaining trust and engaging in personal interests or fantasies? 🙂
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I’m sitting back, and I am relaxing. 😌
It’s that laid-back, no-rush kind of vibe where you’re settled in, comfortably, and you’re just letting time pass easily. You’re sitting back—maybe on a sofa or chair—remote control or mobile phone in hand, casually scrolling through Facebook without pressure to win or grind. The focus isn’t intensity; it’s enjoyment. Snacks nearby, background music, shoulders relaxed, mind unwinding.
This feels like switching off stress. It’s low energy, cosy, and I am feeling content. The goal is to feel good. I’m just chilling.😃 -
I am unsure about others, but I traditionally take down my Christmas decorations on the 6th of January.
Religiously and culturally, Christmas decorations are typically removed on Twelfth Night (5th January) or the Feast of the Epiphany (6th January).
Today marks what I consider the final day of the Christmas period and a fresh start to the new year. I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy and prosperous New Year 2026.
Last year was particularly challenging for me, as we experienced the loss of a family member just before Christmas.
The year has been one of mourning and learning to cope with difficult circumstances. Coming to terms with the loss of loved ones can be a profound challenge.
As we move forward, I am hopeful for a year filled with better times.
Warm regards,
Frances -
It’s such an amazing programme. David Attenborough is simply the “Best of British.”
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Have you ever pondered the meaning of life? Why do we exist? We all arrive in the world with nothing and, regrettably, depart in the same manner. Will our legacy endure through our children and grandchildren? Surely, there must be more to life than what is immediately apparent. Are we all here for a meaningful purpose? Should we strive to create a better environment for future generations? If only we knew the reason. Why do we exist?
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I cannot stop playing this song. I 🩷 it so much.
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The Weekend Away I have just watched “The Weekend Away,” and I found it to be highly engaging. It is a thriller that effectively incorporates an unexpected twist. Initially, I suspected one character, but I quickly realised I was mistaken. The final twist was particularly well-executed.
I would rate the film a perfect 10. I won’t reveal any spoilers, but I can confidently say it is very watchable. #Netflix 🙂
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I loved this film. It stars Keira Knightly and Guy Pearce. The Woman in Cabin 10. The film is set on board a luxury yacht.
In the film, Knightley plays Laura “Lo” is a journalist who is invited on the maiden voyage of the luxury yacht.
The plot revolves around her witnessing a woman being thrown overboard one night.
The film is based on the bestselling 2016 psychological thriller novel of the same name by author Ruth Ware.
I loved it! 🙂
Cabin 1 would have been more appropriate, but I enjoyed the film just the same. 😃
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I love my daughters
Christmas with daughters feels like warmth wrapped in laughter. It’s the sparkle in their eyes when the lights come on, the excitement as the open their presents, and the way even the smallest traditions feel magical again. There’s music playing, wrapping paper everywhere, and a kind of joy that’s loud, messy, and real.
It’s the feeling of togetherness,
watching the same movies you’ve seen a hundred times, and hearing stories and questions that remind you how special the season looks through their eyes. Christmas slows everything down just enough to focus on what matters most—time together, shared smiles, and memories that stay long after the decorations come down.My daughters Kitty and Lolly are simply the best!
My daughters bought me some Australian ginger beer. I love ginger beer. #Bundaberg is exceptionally nice.
Thank you to them for all of my Christmas presents. I was one spoilt mummy. My favourite perfume and my favourite gin were amongst a multitude of gifts. #thankYou
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Me, a few years ago 
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I ❤️ these flowers -
Q. Do you have an Italian background SmileyRose?
A. Lol, not at all. Lots of people have asked the same question. The answer is no!
I do not speak any other languages, although I appreciate people who are from a Roman Catholic background, as my family has a similar religious background. My father converted to CofE later in life.
People often confused me with a female named Fran, who works at the same place of employment as me. She’s a Francesca, I am #Frances. Both of our names were shortened to Fran. She is a dark Italian. I am not Italian at all. 😀
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Q. What is the most memorable musical you have ever watched, SmileyRose?
A. I have many favourites; however, I particularly enjoy theatre, and my favourite musical is the Victor Hugo adaptation, *Les Misérables*. I greatly admire Michael Ball’s performance as Marius. It’s the 40th anniversary of the production this year.
I am familiar with all of the songs from the musical and enjoy them immensely.
1. On My Own
2. Bring Him Home
3. Master of the House
4. Castle on a Cloud
5. I Dreamed A Dream
6. One More Day
7. Empty Chairs and Tables -
I have enjoyed a delightful day with my daughter Lolly, who is visiting England from Australia. We shared a very pleasant lunch together and later attended the cinema to watch Avatar: Fire and Ash. It is, to date, my favourite Avatar film.
Thank you, James Cameron, for creating such an impressive film; it has certainly become my favourite film of the year. The film was highly entertaining, packed with action from beginning to end, and the special effects were nothing short of brilliant. #Fantastic 🙂
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A fun night out at a Christmas party tonight. There was lots of eating and dancing. I particularly liked the band.
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It’s starting to feel a lot like #Christmas! I’ve just been to #Notcutts and picked up my Christmas tree. I’ve been getting my tree from there for the past three years – it’s become a bit of a tradition. This year, it’s a little bigger than usual, and I absolutely love it!
The staff were so very kind and even brought the tree to my car and wrapped it up in netting for me. It made things so much easier when I got home and was ready to unpack it. It just slid out of the car. 😊
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Very amusing! I was speaking to someone outside the pharmacy this evening, and when I collected my essentials, I casually wandered over towards my car to drive home. I was sitting in the front drivers seat, and I wondered why my key wouldn’t turn in the ignition. Then I looked out of the window beside me and realised I was sitting in someone else’s car! The vehicle was the same colour and model as my own car, and the owner had left their car unlocked. How weird was that. I felt quite silly! 🤣
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I very recently went to watch the #DisneyFilm #FreakierFriday, which starred Jamie Lee Curtis. Lol It was a very “girly” lightearted film. I can remember watching the very first #FreakyFriday film, which starred Jodie Foster. I loved that film too. 😁
Ps I loved sitting in a reclining chair at the Odeon, with my popcorn. ☺️
Freakier Friday I also went to watch Superman last week, which starred David Correnswet. I loved that it showed a sweeter side to Superman, particularly when he saved a small animal from deaths harm. #SoLovelyToSee. I really enjoyed the film, although I did miss Henry Cavill. However, personally speaking, I think Henry would make a brilliant James Bond. 😀
Superman Frances x
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You may have noticed a period of reduced activity recently, by me, due to health reasons. Fortunately, I have been receiving excellent care from skilled medical professionals, which is supporting my recovery. My thanks go to them.
There comes a time when you realise that your own health is important and you need some good advice from the people who know best.
I do not think I have ever spent so long at home, not going anywhere and just trying to be well again.
Frances R A Napper
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Willow Grange I had a wonderful Mother’s Day with my daughter, Catherine, yesterday. It was such a beautiful day. We visited a farm “The Willow Grange,” just outside of Cambridge, where a lady by the name of Charlotte led a candle decoration workshop. Together, Catherine and I decorated four candles each, which I found to be quite therapeutic. The atmosphere was enhanced by calming music in the background. We enjoyed Prosecco and pink lemonade, along with a sweet treat, while engaging in pleasant conversation with another mother and her daughter Lauren, who sat across from us. It reminded me of my own mother and daughter, who sadly could not be with us.
It was truly a delightful afternoon. Later, Catherine and I explored the farm shop before returning to St. Ives for dinner. We ate at the Ivo Lounge.
Thank you for my wonderful gifts.
Today, I plan a lovely day in the garden with some of my lovely treats. 😉
Thank you for the lovely messages from my daughters this morning. I love you both. 💕💞
SmileyRose Ramblings by
Frances Rose Agnes Napper (She/Her) 