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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
- Flowers
Q. Have you ever received flowers as a gift?
I have received carefully selected flowers from various sources—friends, loved ones, and other gardens—but the one that remains most memorable to me is from after the tragic loss of my boyfriend in an accident. Upon returning to work, I found a small arrangement of hand-picked flowers placed at my workstation, accompanied by a heartfelt note. This gesture was remarkably touching, quite unexpected, and it provided me with comfort during a difficult period.
The individual responsible demonstrated a truly compassionate nature.
F x
- To Trust Or Not To Trust? That Is The Question
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? 🙂
- Just Relaxing 🙂
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.😃 - Happy New Year
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 - Wild London
It’s such an amazing programme. David Attenborough is simply the “Best of British.”
- Whats The Meaning Of Life
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?
- Through My Soul
I cannot stop playing this song. I 🩷 it so much.
- Netflix Film: The Weekend Away
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 🙂
- Netflix Film: The Woman In Cabin 10
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. 😃
- Christmas, with my Daughters
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
- Work Christmas Tree
Me, a few years ago 
- My Pretty Flowers 🙂
I ❤️ these flowers - Your Background
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. 😀
- Favourite Musical
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 - Avatar: Fire and Ash
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 🙂
- A Fun Night Out
A fun night out at a Christmas party tonight. There was lots of eating and dancing. I particularly liked the band.
- My Name 🙂
Q. What do people call you?
A. Lol, I get called all sorts.
My name is Frances,
Rose, Agnes, Fran, Aggy, Nessy, Effie, AN, although I am mostly Na since divorce.I am also SmileyRose, Smiley, Rose, de, FNde and ND
FRAN is the acronym of my full name, Frances Rose Agnes Napper. It is also my shortened name for Frances
I was named Agnes after my grand-mother because I was her eldest grand-daughter and her eldest grandchild.
https://youtu.be/9iPZd_4llCg?si=uX3glPazU7fBrgK8
- The Windows of My Soul
Q. Describe your eyes, SmileyRose?
A. I have deep, dark, expressive eyes that convey a sense of allure and mystery. They have often been described as captivating and suggestive or looking seductive. My eyes serve as a reflection of my inner self, the windows of my soul.
- Our Religion and Traditions
Q.
Should we be able to put Christmas trees wherever we want without worrying about offending people from other religions
Other religions need to respect our traditions
Do you agree?
A. I feel sure that other religions respect our Christmas trees and our traditions. However, do we respect the other religions and their traditions as much, is more to the point. 🙂
- Having A Sexy Personality Has Nothing To Do With The Clothes I Am Wearing 🙂
Q. What kind of clothes do you like to wear SmileyRose?
A. That is a very thoughtful question. I generally prefer not to wear outfits that emphasise a deep cleavage, particularly during the colder winter months, as I prioritise staying warm. Throughout my teenage years and as a young woman, I did not wear such clothing. I have always enjoyed dressing in a respectful, elegant, or casual manner. I consider myself to be quite particular about my attire and tend to avoid wearing revealing clothing.
My preferred company is similar to me in these preferences.
I prefer the gentlemanly type of guy who is happy to be seen with me wearing elegant and respectful clothing as opposed to heaving blossoms on display. I’m particular in the way I like to look. I am someone who enjoys wearing elegant evening attire for my partner when we are out in public. I believe that sexier clothing should be reserved for one’s partner and not intended to attract others. It is important that a man appreciates you primarily for your personality.
If he values only your physical appearance initially, the relationship may not be sustainable, as physical attractiveness can change over time. There will always be a much younger woman who has a younger body. From personal experience, having a sexy personality works far better. It has nothing to do with the dress I am wearing.
🙂
- Vitamins
I have been feeling so energetic recently. For breakfast, I drank a strawberry smoothie and a slice of sourdough bread with crunchy peanut butter spread on it. I then had Vitimin D and Magnesium tablets. The vitamins seem to be giving me a lot of energy. 🙂👌
Recently, I have been experiencing increased energy levels. 👌
For breakfast today, I enjoyed a strawberry smoothie accompanied by a slice of sourdough bread with crunchy peanut butter. I then took vitamin D and magnesium supplements. The vitamins appear to be contributing to my heightened energy.🙂👌
- My Very First Job Interviev 🙂
When I was 16 years old and leaving school, I was fortunate enough to secure an interview for my very first job application. The company director was so impressed with my curriculum vitae and the accompanying cover letter that he asked during the interview whether I had written the letter myself. I was honest and informed him that my father had assisted me. My dad was very well written. He read a lot, and his English was outstanding. Although I did not secure the position, the director of the company advised me that gaining more experience in the workforce would be beneficial and encouraged me to reapply to his company in a few years’ time. I did not pursue this further, but I believe I left a positive impression.
Both of my parents ONLY spoke the English language, even though they were both born In British India.. None of them spoke any other languages. My father excelled at English literature and the English language. He had Latin classes at the English school he attended. My mum went to an American school, which was where the British attended school, due to them mostly having Indian schools where they resided. If they did not pass their yearly exams, then they remained in the same class until they passed their exams and moved up to the next year. In India, you paid for your education back then, unlike here in England. 🙂
- Frosty The Snowman
I’m eating Frosty the Snowman. He is so yummy! 😄
- It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas
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. 😊
- Advent Calendar
I love my new advent calendar. There are scented candles in each of the drawers. 😀👌 There are scented candles in each of the drawers. 😀👌
- “Westlife”
I’m crying. Wow! I’m watching Westlife at the Royal Albert Hall in concert, at the cinema. It is so good! The female singer Lauren is just fabulous! Such a beautiful voice.
#IntervalTime
Omg! When Catherine Jenkins came out to sing “You Raise Me Up”….I cried again.
The show was just fabulous. 👌
- I’m A Barbie Girl
Q. Can you remember your first #BarbieDoll SmileyRose?
A. Yes, I still have her somewhere. I can remember living on the RAF camp at Old Sarum, Salisbury, Witshire. It was during the children’s Christmas party when Santa arrived by helicopter, bringing each of us a small gift.
He called us by name to collect our presents. I was delighted when I unwrapped mine, as it was my first ever Barbie doll. While most of my friends had blonde-haired Barbie dolls, mine was special because it had my skin colour. The Mattel logo was inscribed on the doll’s bottom. 😁
I was very pleased—I had a Barbie that resembled me. It was perhaps one of the very first #Barbies I’d ever owned. I can remember my friends all having blonde barbies, and I felt a little left out. I didn’t moan. But Santa Clause made one little girl very happy that year.
Re below: I forgot to mention that at the age of 5 yrs old, I wanted to be a hairdresser when i grew up. I can remember giving my Barbie a haircut. I cried when her hair never grew back! 😉
I never did become a hairdresser. 🤣
As a child, I always said that I would never tire of playing with my Barbies. Can you imagine how excited I was at having two daughters. My very own Barbies! Lol, I used to love dressing them in similar outfits. Their outfits often matched mine. We looked like triplets. 😍😁
- A Kind Thought
A very sweet young mother thought of me when she dropped in to give me this keyring today. #ThankYou for the kind thought. 😇
🫠 - A Lovely Treat
I sm having a quiet evening at home with a gin and tonic. 🙃
- Milk Time
I am reminiscing about my childhood. I have recently begun having milk delivered to my doorstep again after all these years. I recall my parents always having their milk delivered. It often made me laugh when the birds would nibble at the bottle tops in the early hours of the morning. I also remember having milk delivered when my children were much younger. The girls used to enjoy collecting the bottle tops and making a caterpillar by threading the tops onto a long piece of string. We combined sharing a glass of milk with fun and play.
Is Milk nutritious?
McQueens Dairies Yes, milk is nutritious, as it provides a good source of essential nutrients such as protein, calcium, and vitamins that support bone health, muscle function, and energy levels. However, the fat content can vary, so selecting lower-fat options may help in managing saturated fat intake, which is associated with cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Lol I can see why I was a milk monitor at school. 😅
- Classical Music – I Love This So Much.
I ❤️ this so much. 😁
Frederic Chopin – Les Sylphides, Prelude, Op 28, No 7
https://youtu.be/jyGo4Snl1S0?si=5X2FTiAwcj8s97aG - Something Silly! 😃
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! 🤣
- The English Language, Is It On The Decline
Someone with an orange and white British background: their children are likely to inherit some aspects of that heritage. They might have fairer skin than someone of Indian descent, or they could be darker skinned; they are not necessarily always entirely white, as an example, a person with two parents from Germany and England, each with white backgrounds. Their children are likely to be raised speaking English, especially if educated in England, and because of their English parentage. If both parents speak English, this is generally an added advantage. Challenges are more significant for those with two parents who do not speak English at all. Their children may face more difficulties with learning the English language, particularly if English is not spoken at home. This may partly explain the observed decline in English language proficiency. Speaking English with an English accent does not impact one’s ability to speak the language effectively.
Just because a person is born in England does not make them proficient at speaking and writing the English language if their parents could not speak any English . Someone who is born outside the country, who is English, can be proficient at speaking and writing the English language, though.
Frances x
- Milk
When my daughters were young, we arranged for milk to be delivered to the doorstep each morning.
There was never an issue with running out of milk. Milk is an important source of essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, and vitamin D, which are vital for developing strong bones and teeth. It also supports healthy muscle growth and provides lasting energy. For children, particularly between the ages of one and two years, whole milk is commonly advised due to its healthy fats and energy content.
- Every Letter Of The Alphabet
“The Quick Brown Fox Jumps Over The Lazy Dog.”
This sentence has every letter of the alphabet. I used the sentence to help me learn how to use the keyboard. I became very quick st typewriting. 🙂
- Breast Cancer Awareness Month
“Pink October” is the name for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a global campaign held each October to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage early detection, and stand in solidarity with those affected.
#Think pink 💗
- Spooky
Goodness! We had a powecut at work today. We were left in darkness for a few minutes. All of the lights went off, and the computers were down. It was quite #spooky ( Halloween). 😃
- Myths
Myths often serve to explain the origins of the world, the nature of good and evil, and the reasons behind various customs and traditions. They are typically closely associated with a culture’s religious or spiritual beliefs and may encompass spiritual stories that embody the group’s philosophical outlook.
Prominent mythologies include Greek, Norse, and Egyptian, which feature well-known figures such as Zeus, Odin, and Anubis. These narratives often focus on heroic individuals like Perseus and Achilles, as well as legendary creatures, including the Minotaur and Medusa. Additionally, significant mythologies originate from Roman, Hindu, and Chinese cultures.
Key myths include the creation of the world from the navel of Vishnu, as well as the revered Trimurti consisting of Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the preserver), and Shiva (the destroyer). These narratives also encompass renowned epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
Such stories frequently feature prominent deities and beings, including the divine serpent Shesha Naga, the noble bird-man Garuda, and the cosmic serpent Naga.
English folklore is made up of the myths and legends from England, including the country’s mythical creatures, traditional recipes, urban legends, proverbs, superstitions, dance, ballads, and folktales that have been handed down through the ages, showing the UK’s cultural heritage.:)
- A Creature Of Habit
Q. Would you say that you are a creature of habit SmileyRose?
A. Lol Yes! I still use a face flannel in the mornings. I love porridge in the winter. I say words like “Yay” when I’m happy. I love to return to the same places, particularly places around England. Places I love.🩷
- Indigenous Person
I’m an Indigenous person.
Indigenous people have a historical and ancestral link to the land that was inhabited before other groups became dominant. 🙂
- British Subjects
Q. You mentioned British Subject in one of your earlier posts SmileyRose. What’s that?
A British Subject is a term that has had different meanings over time; historically, it was the main nationality for those connected to the British Empire.
People born in a British overseas territory after January 1, 1983, may also be considered #BritishSubjects if a parent was a British subject under the BNA 1981.
This referred to anyone with a close connection to the British Crown.
Yes, it is true. One of my parents was from a #white background, and the parent was from an Indian background.
The education in India was very different from what it is today during the British Empire days. They had English schools, hospitals, and Christian churches in India during that time.
It is true. There was nobody from Pakistan in my family, but most certainly British India, which was very different from India today. It was pretty much like England is today. There were lots of British marrying into Indian families and visa versa.
This is the reason why I do not understand any of the Indian languages, because neither of my parents spoke a different language, other than the English language.
I am #ORANGE #BritishIndian and #WhiteBritish
MyFamily
- Diwali Festival
I have been asked previously what occurs at the Diwali festival – #Diwali is a widely celebrated festival among Hindu communities worldwide. Hinduism, recognized as the world’s oldest major religion, is one of my personal favourite faiths, outside of my own faith, which is Roman Catholic.
I also love the Greek Orthodox tradition, especially given my past experience of serving as a bridesmaid for a Cypriot couple. Their wedding ceremony was truly serene and beautiful.
Diwali is often called the “Festival of Lights” due to the custom of decorating homes, shops, and public spaces with small oil lamps known as ‘diyas.’
The festival is also observed by Sikh and Jain communities. It typically lasts for about five or six days and is usually celebrated around October or November. Diwali signifies the spiritual victory of Dharma over Adharma, light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance.
During this time, fireworks are commonly displayed as part of the festivities.🙂
- When Irish Eyes Are Smiling 😃
This beret still makes me smile. I was wandering around the Peterborough museum when I came across it. I just had to try it on. It had the scarf attached.:)
- Soft System Methodology (SSM)
This morning provided a valuable learning experience. I had the opportunity to learn from my daughter. She introduced me to Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), which is a systems thinking framework developed by Peter Checkland at Lancaster University. She demonstrated a technique designed to address complex “messy” human problems.
She assigned a brief 10-minute task for me to complete, which involved creating a Rich Picture—a visual diagram that captures a complex problem scenario to represent diverse viewpoints.
It was a highly engaging experience, and I found her teaching approach to be exceptional.
It was all so very interesting.
I am grateful for the insight and guidance provided by my daughter. Thank you very much, Catherine. I love you 🩷
- Pirates Of The Caribean
Today, I went to see two films at the Odean Cinema in town. I love the “Pirates Of The Carrabean” films. Lol, the thought of my great grandfather came to my mind. He was a tall blonde gentleman who reminded me of a pirate when I looked at some of his photographs.
Re my #shipwreck photograph. I enjoyed a lovely holiday in #Zante a few years ago. To reach Shipwreck Beach (Navagio Beach), I took a boat tour from Zakynthos Town.
- Black Or White ? Who cares!
There are a lot of people who live in England who are from a white parent background and a black parent background. If the child only relates to one parent more than the other, is that child white or black British? Black or white is based on your culture, language, and religion, therefore those children who appear black, but take after their white parent, perhaps because one of their parents was absent from their lives, why are they made to feel like an alien if they don’t understand the black side of their family? What if they are adopted? Black or White, why does it matter if you have all been given a British passport? If the British have a problem with someone’s colour, then don’t issue British passports! Give them a green card instead!
Everyone is #British, if they have a passport, surely?
The colour of your skin should not make a difference to how you have been brought up!
Should someone spend their lives being a colour or a human being!
Surely, treating people like aliens, this causes more racial tension. Why not treat people like individuals and human beings instead, and not a colour!
I am not a colour, I am a human being.
- The Stilton Bell
I had a super evening at #TheStiltonBell with my daughter #Kitty. The food was very good and we loved the restaurant.
- The Royal Air Force
#SoProud. My dad was a member of the British Royal Air Force for 28 years of his life. He loved the forces so much.
I was a Scale-E Brat.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1FMGDfGQmB/
- I Do Wish ……
I do wish people would give over! I am not my parents! I am me, an individual. People keep posting my background. I am the present!
I am not anyone who is not #British. I love to visit outside of Britain. I love all around the world, but I am who I am. If I am treated well when I visit outside of Britain, then I will write about it.
My favourite countries to visit so far are America (California), Cyprus and Spain. I was treated very well in those 3 x countries I have visited. #WithoutADoubt
Ideally, I would like to travel more. I do not get the opportunity as I am still working full time. There are a lot of countries I would love to visit if given the chance. I do not write about other people’s experiences, only my own. If I feel welcome, then I am happy.
If I have never visited a place or country, how on earth can I chat about something I do not know about. I am not rich! #NoFirstHandExperiences
- Well Mannered
How lovely it was to sit at #Costa and listen to two very well-mannered children. I had to turn around and compliment their grandparents. Very often, when my children were younger, their grandparents were often complimented re how well mannered they were.
My grandmother was often complimented on how well mannered I am. We would often go to church together whenever I stayed with her. #WhatGoesAroundComesAround
- British English
Yes! It is true. I am from a British English background!
- Reflecting On Past Experiences
Recently, I took the opportunity to organise and search through my attic. It’s often surprising what items you rediscover during such a decluttering process. I found some of my childhood memories “My Tiny Tears,” an old Barbie doll, and a bundle of handwritten letters.
Additionally, I came across a few newspaper clippings and articles that I had kept. The photographs brought back many fond memories as well.
Occasionally, reflecting on past experiences can be a valuable and rewarding activity.:)
- Canal Boating
During my earlier years, I fondly recall spending time boating on the river at Upton-on-Severn with my aunt and uncle. These outings were truly enjoyable and memorable. Since then, I have been boating multiple times with a different family member and a friend.
Each experience has provided some of the most relaxing moments of my life.
I loved those relaxing Sunday afternoons and stopping at a pub for lunch. I have not been in ages, however Canal boating is tops.🙂
- Damsel In Distress – Home Safe
Have you ever found yourself sitting in your car, on the parkway, and feeling uncertain about what to do next?
This evening, I experienced a moment of panic. My front tyre suddenly blew out, which was quite an unsettling experience. I noticed a burning smell coming from the clutch, and my car would not shift into gear. I felt stranded and alone.
There was a young woman travelling on a motorcycle who stopped to check if I was okay. She also communicated with other drivers to alert them that my car had come to a standstill.
During this stressful situation, a young gentleman named James, who was returning home from the gym, stopped to offer me assistance, along with another individual named Emmanuel. They both helped push my car to a safer location. James efficiently took control to replace the tyre. He was like some superhero. I was impressed with how quickly they were able to get my vehicle operational again. I sincerely appreciate both of them for their kindness, support, and for ensuring my safety this evening. James kindly accompanied me in his vehicle as I drove home, just to ensure there were no further issues. I was so glad to get home.
Thank you both very much for your assistance and for steering my car to safety after it came to a complete stop.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your help.
Ps RAC Response times was 5 hours last night. Someone was watching over me.
I mentioned to James that he’d make a good action hero, lol he mentioned that he had a cameo part in the Gladiators. 😁
- Downton Abbey: The Grande Finale
Downton Abbey This evening, I attended the Showcase Cinema to watch: Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. I have been an avid follower of the franchise, and I can say that this final episode did not disappoint.
It was wonderful to see the original cast members from the first two films.
My favorite character in the film is Lady Mary. I found it interesting to observe how divorce was quite frowned upon during the 1930s.
The film starred Michelle Dockery and Hugh Bonneville. It was great to see the tribute paid to the late Maggie Smith, who was a remarkable actress. RIP Dame Maggie Smith.
I am feeling quite emotional now re it being the final episode. I felt the same when the TV series “Upstairs, Downstairs” ended.
I highly recommend you watch the film.
Ps There was one part right at the end of the film that I did not quite understand when the name Sybil was mentioned. I was a little lost. 🙂
Frances x
- Shall We Dance
Here’s a film I loved! I starred Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez
- Frozen
I loved the film and the songs were brilliant. Y-Rose, Rose. 🙂✌️
Frances 
Frances
- Me Target Shooting!
I am a pretty dab hand at “Target Shooting.” You can guarantee that I often shoot what I aim for. I have practised a number of times over the years. 🙂
My photography 
This photograph is of me just a few years ago. The photograph was taken with my camera, when I asked a photographer friend if he’d take a few photos of me, at a spy event. It was such good fun.:)
It looks as if I am aiming at one huge whale and lots of little followers. 🙂
- JURASSIC WORLD REBIRTH (2025)
This evening, I attended a screening at the Showcase Cinema, of “Jurassic World Rebirth,” which starred Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey. It is a film I have greatly been looking forward to watching. The film was exceptional from beginning to end. I particularly enjoy films that feature engaging action, compelling drama, and impressive special effects, and this film delivered on all those fronts.
I did not realize until the very end that the film was directed by Mr Steven Spielberg, who just so happens to be one of my favourite filmmakers. I have appreciated his work over the years and was fully captivated throughout the viewing of this film tonight. It was excellent, excellent, and excellent!:)
I have photographed the huge dinosaur at the History Museum and at the Peterborough Cathedral over the past few years. Therefore, I was very happy to go and watch this film tonight.
Thank you, Mr Spielberg, for not failing to entertain me with your films over the years. 🙂
I was also thrilled to bits to hear that John Williams arranged the musical score. He’s superb. 😉
Frances x
- Beauty Is In The Eye Of The Beholder
Q. SmileyRose, how would you describe your perspective on beauty?
A. I consider myself an aging woman and believe that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Attractiveness can vary from person to person, and I recognise that perceptions of beauty may change as one grows older.
I have never gone out there and said, “Hey, look at me, I’m wonderful!” That is someone else’s misconception about me. I very rarely post my young photographs on the internet, just since turning 45 yrs.
I have a nice personality.
Frances x 🙃🙂
- Himalayan Salt Lamp – So calming
I am presently relaxing with some calming music while relaxing by the side of my Himalayan salt lamp, which is known for its characteristic pink-red-orange glow. It is believed to purify the air and enhance mood by emitting negative ions, although scientific evidence supporting these health benefits is limited.
Himalayan Salt Lamp Some people believe that they can purify the air, improve mental health, and help with asthma. But there’s little research to back up these claims.
I feel relaxed. 🙂
- Orange Frog
I came across this tiny little Orange Frog when I last visited #SheppertonZoo. It was so tiny. Wonders if is the poisonous orange frog?
SmileyRose Ramblings by
Frances Rose Agnes Napper (She/Her) 