Blog 1 – Some More Ramblings

Page 2


God concerns Himself not just with the big, cataclysmic events of life but even those mundane, “invisible” moments in our lives as well



I Give Up!

I can look quite Spanish-looking, however, I have an English accent because I cannot speak any other languages. My parents could only speak English!

I grew up in England only. I am from a Christian background, like both of my parents.

I had to laugh out loud yesterday. It was that funny. Two very English ladies came up to me to enquire what accent the person had, re the lady they’d just been to see. They said they could detect a slight accent, but found the person was very nice.

So I satisfied their curiosity. I then got chatting with them and I ended our conversation by asking them both what accent they thought  I had?  They both hmmed and ah’d.  They both mentioned that I sounded English and that they couldn’t detect an accent at all.

They sounded intrigued, then suddenly one piped up “Hmmm we’re not sure!  So I said, “How about English like you!” And they both laughed out loud as if to say “Amazing, we didn’t think people with your colouring, could speak the English language, like us!”  I give up! 😅🤣


I love singing Carpenter songs. Here I Am singing “Rainy Days and Mondays” as a duet. 

https://www.smule.com/sing-recording/103500888_4887103398


I ❤️  Lavender.


My daughter Lauren and I had a lovely afternoon at the gardens of Sandringham. We had lunch in the large cafe. It was lovely. We were on our way to Sherringham.

Architecture and Grounds: The house is an example of Jacobethan architecture, a style that blends Jacobean and Elizabethan elements. The estate covers about 20,000 acres and includes Sandringham House, gardens, woodland, and farmland.

Location: Sandringham is situated in the village of Sandringham in Norfolk, about 100 miles north of London. It is located in a picturesque rural area, surrounded by rolling countryside.

Function: While Sandringham is a private residence, parts of it are open to the public. The house, museum, and gardens are accessible to visitors during certain times of the year. The estate is also a working farm, producing a range of agricultural products.


Loving my flowers.


The Stilton Cheese Rolling Event

I was full of cold when I went to this event a few years ago. I was on my own and I had the afternoon to spend, taking photographs. 🙂

The stilt cheese rolling event is an unusual and entertaining competition that combines the traditional British pastime of cheese rolling with the added challenge of participants wearing stilts.

In this event, participants race down a hill chasing a round of cheese, all while balancing on stilts. The aim is to catch the cheese or at least be the first to cross the finish line at the bottom of the hill. The event tests not only speed and agility but also balance and coordination, as navigating a downhill slope on stilts is significantly more difficult than on foot.

Stilt cheese rolling events are typically characterized by a festive atmosphere, with spectators cheering on the participants and enjoying the comical and sometimes chaotic nature of the races. It’s a unique twist on a traditional sport, adding an extra layer of difficulty and hilarity to an already quirky and beloved event.


ENGLAND

England- Winners! 😃

Well done to the England players today.

Serbia 0-1 England – Euro 2024: Jude Bellingham scores crashing header https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-13505345/Serbia-vs-England-Euro-2024-Live-Score-Result.html?ito=native_share_article-nativemenubutton

  • Artemis II – Nasa

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

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

    Here I am in my spacesuit 🙂

  • The Bride

    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

    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

    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
  • You Should Never Judge A Book By Its Cover

    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

    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!

    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

    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

    This is a beautiful song, I love.

    “You’ll Be In My Heart”

    You Tarzan, me Jane 😀

  • Band On The Run 💚💙🩷

    Another song I absolutely love by

    Band On The Run” by  Paul McCartney and Wings. 🙂

  • Softly As You Leave You🩷🧡

    This is a beautiful song, Sir Cliff Richard

  • Easter Blessings

    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

    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
    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

    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 🙏

    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

    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….

    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 😉

    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  🙂

    I am Blue and White. (One parent)😀

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

  • SmileyRose

    This is one of my very first social media photographs, just over 20 years ago. 🙂

  • Pistachio Gelato Ice Cream Cups
    I bought these from Aldi.

    They get the big thumbs up. 👌👍

  • Majestic Looking Tiger
    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

    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

    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

    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”

    I ❤️  this song. 😀

  • About Me

    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.

  • Car Shows

    I occasionally enjoy attending Car exhibitions. Here are some of the vehicles displayed at Stamford Meadows during my most recent visit.

    Me .
  • A Delicious Lamb Giro

    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

    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…
  • Michael McIntyre…

    I find my spirits lifted every time I listen to him. He’s so funny. 😀

  • Misheard Lyrics – Peter Kay

    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. 🤣

  • “Purple Rain”

    Prince made some great songs in his lifetime. He passed away far too young. This was one of the best songs he ever sang. “Purple Rain”

  • The Visitor

    I really love this song. 🩷

  • Twin Flames

    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.

    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

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

  • Childhood Memories
    I don’t think I have changed much 😄

    I cherish my childhood memories. This is an old photograph of me at the age of seven, wearing a pink dress, alongside my younger sister wearing an orange dress. I can not recall the names of our friends, although I seem to remember the names Michael and Gary; however, I am uncertain. The photograph was taken in Penang, Malaysia, during my father’s military service with the Royal Air Force. He was stationed at RAF Butterworth, and we frequently went to see him as he crossed the ferry to and from the base. I recall an occasion when my father was late arriving at the ferry terminal; he attempted a daring “Mission Impossible” stunt by running and jumping onto the departing ferry. Unfortunately, he missed and was left hanging onto the side of the deck until assistance was provided. He subsequently injured his ribs and received several bruises. Fortunately, he avoided falling into the sea, which was known to be populated with jellyfish. 😱

    Lol, goodness, the things I can remember. 😀

    Photograph captured by my late Father Frank.

  • No More The Night Owl

    Since returning from my break away, I have been sleeping at regular times. My eyes look so much better. I need to be in bed by 10 pm, these days. No more late nights. I wake up feeling a lot better.

    “No More The Night Owl”

  • Is Apologising A Sign Of Weakness?

    Q. Is apologising considered a sign of weakness?

    A. Apologising is appropriate when an individual acknowledges that they have made a mistake. One cannot apologise for something they are unaware of. Open communication about the matter is therefore beneficial.

    You may sometimes accept differing opinions if the matter is minor or if the individual is at fault; in such cases, an appropriate apology should be offered.

    If you don’t talk, then nobody ever knows that they have done something wrong.

  • My Bee Photograph

    I love this photograph. I captured this at the Sue Ryder garden a few years ago.

  • A Rose

    This exquisite pink rose was presented to me a few years ago at the George Hotel in Stamford, during an afternoon whilst I was dining there after shopping in the town. I had completely forgotten that it was Valentine’s Day. 🙂

  • As Time Goes By

    Love From Years Gone By

    Have you ever thought and wondered about a past love?

    Often called a “First Love” or a “Significant Past Romance,” it can leave a lasting mark. 

    Sometimes, emotions can stay bright and fresh in our memory, even after decades. These memories serve as a touchstone of youth. 

    Many people find that, even when relationships end, the strong feelings connected to them may not completely fade. Sometimes, they lead to a lifelong sentiment that stays with us forever.

  • Oops-A-Daisy

    Recently, a work colleague kindly came to pick me up for work. I truly appreciated it. While she was waiting outside the front of my home, a random woman unexpectedly entered the back of her car. My colleague was quite startled and exclaimed, “Oh Jesus, what are you doing in my car?”  She noticed that the woman appeared to be alarmed also. The woman apologised, explaining, “I thought this was the taxi I ordered.” At this point, the taxi driver behind them began to laugh. It was quite an amusing situation. 😁

    I am unsure what my reaction would have been if someone did this to me.

    F x

    😄

  • A Visit To Wansford

    I love to eat good food that is nicely presented.

    This was a lovely baguette served with some salad and crisps at the Haycock Hotel, Wansford. 

    I have some lovely photographs of the Wansford bridge to add to this post soon.  🙂

  • Full English Breakfast

    Here’s one English breakfast I enjoyed when I went to stay at Bacton.

    Cooked Breakfast

    A traditional cooked breakfast—often called a full English breakfast—is a hearty, comforting start to the day, especially loved across the UK.
    Here’s what you’ll typically find on the plate:
    Eggs – fried, scrambled, or poached
    Bacon – usually back bacon (thicker and meatier than streaky)
    Sausages – pork sausages, often called “bangers.” The one above was a bit long and skinny. 🤣

    🙂

  • The Last Waltz

    This song reminds me of my mother and father. My parents were great ballroom dancers. My father loved the Waltz. It was his favourite.

    🙂

  • “One Last Love Song” by The Beautiful South

    It’s such a lovely song. 🙂

  • Sadly Missed – Bradley Bunny

    It has been a few years since my beloved pet bunny passed away. I miss him so much.

    Bradley

    Soft Little Goodbye


    In a corner where you used to rest,
    A hush has fallen, soft and blessed.
    No tiny paws, no gentle thump,
    No curious nose, no playful jump.
    You nibbled days like clover sweet,
    With velvet ears and heartbeat neat,
    A fragile soul, so small, so bright,
    A flicker of love, a whisper of light.
    The hay lies still, the bowl untouched,
    But oh, how deeply you were loved.
    In every hop, in every stare,
    You left your quiet magic there.
    Run now where the grasses grow,
    Where soft winds wander, kind and slow,
    Where endless fields in sunlight gleam,
    And life is one long, peaceful dream.
    Though you have gone, you’re not apart—
    You’ve burrowed deep inside my heart.
    A tiny life, yet love so wide…
    My gentle friend, my soft goodbye.

    Bradley kisses

    He was so sweet, right to the very end. He lived to be 8 years old. He was such a cute character. He loved me singing to him, which is another reason I joined Smile. 

    He was my best friend during covid and lockdown and also after my father passed away.  I will never forget him.  🙂🩷

  • “Save The Best For Last”

    I’m listening to “Save the Best for Last” by Vanessa Williams ‧ 1991

    It is such a lovely song.  I like to save the best for last. 🙂

  • City of Stars – LaLa Land

    I’m listening to “City Of Stars”, which is from the film “LaLa Land.”  I loved the film. I can remember watching the film 9 years ago, the same year my father passed away. The film starred Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone.

  • When Someone Loved Me

    I was listening to this beautiful song, “When Someone Loved Me” 🙂

    I love the song so much. 🩷🙂

    The song is from one of my favourite animated films, “Toy Story,” which starred Tom Hanks and a host of other stars. 🙂

  • School In Cyprus

    Q. What school did you attend, Frances, when you resided in Cyprus?

    A. I attended two British schools during my years living in Cyprus.  My father was posted to Cyprus in the 1970’s. He was in the British Royal Air Force. Before my father retirement, he worked in the Education Department.

    My educational journey included time at Campbell Junior School and subsequently at St John’s Secondary School. Both schools provided excellent education.

    They were exclusively British schools, staffed solely by British teachers. Someone assumed that, having lived in Cyprus as a child, I attended a Cypriot school. However, this was not the case. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Cyprus and had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people. I was honoured to serve as a bridesmaid at a Cypriot wedding.

    I have a great appreciation for Greek culture; however, this does not make me Cypriot. I only resided there for a brief period. During that time, I had some of the most memorable experiences of my life. I also maintain friendships with a few individuals from Cyprus (Greek Cypriots), and we have been in touch and visited each other since our childhood.

    I sometimes think about all of those lovely friends I made during my school years and the locals i made friends with. They were special days. 🙂

    You may reside in a different country and hold a deep appreciation for its culture without necessarily being from that cultural background. I only lived there during my childhood and still speak only English. Neither of my parents was Greek Cypriot; however, like myself, they enjoyed living in Cyprus.

    I returned to England with a notable tan. Residing in warm countries can lead to skin tanning over an extended period. I had a healthy glow upon my return to England, which was quite pleasant.

    Aww, I have such a lot of lovely memories.

    F x

  • “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do” “Hold Me”

    I simply love this Neil Sadaka song. It is so sad that we recently lost Neil Sadaka RIP.

    “Breaking Up Is Hard To Do”

    I love this cover version by Gloria Estevan.

    https://youtu.be/zCpdHvZnxYk?si=Frn3RhbMKnMo4CsI

    I have always been a fan of Gloria Estafan.

  • YOU’RE A SUPERSTAR

    I love it 🩷🩷🩷🩷 Take That has released a new single titled “You’re A Superstar,” It is fantastic!😀

    Aww, I love listening to Tony Blackburn’s Golden Hour. It reminds me of the good old days when I used to listen to him on the breakfast show. 😃

  • “California”

    I travelled to California for a holiday a few years ago. I really love the song “CALIFORNIA” by British singer Jessie J

    https://youtu.be/GJb_i1KXbfo?si=zO_g4W9dyjJaKOEQ

  • New Scotland Yard – 2010

    This photograph was taken in 2010. It shows me during a visit to London, standing outside New Scotland Yard. A few years prior to this, I was employed at our local police station. A small group of us had the opportunity to visit Scotland Yard, and we were privileged to have lunch at the on-site restaurant after the tour. It was a memorable day, one I believe few colleagues working in law enforcement have the chance to experience. I remain grateful for the occasion.🙂

    I am standing outside  Scotland Yard.

  • “The Capture”

    I have really been enjoying watching this Police Thriller, “The Capture.” The character Rachel Carey is so me. She even talks like me.🙂 👍

    It has been a long time since I enjoyed watching something good on the TV. 

    Rachel Carey
  • A Walk In The Park

    Today, I went for a lovely walk in the park. I popped to the cafe to have a pot of tea and a slice of cake prior to setting off for another walk. I stopped to sit for a while as I watched the tennis, I reminisced  about the days I used to  play tennis at this very same place, with a friend.

    I truly appreciate this time of year. Spring is one of my favourite seasons, marking the end of a cold winter. It is when the bulbs begin to bloom, and the parks become filled with more cheerful visitors.😊