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

“BETTER MAN”

Jan 2nd, 2025

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to see one of my favourite boy bands, “Take That” at the O2. They delivered an outstanding performance; however, as someone who grew up in the 1980s, I particularly fondly remember the era when Robbie Williams and Jason Orange were part of the band. Despite their departure, the group continues to thrive today with Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen:

I loved the film

Robbie has always had a playful and charismatic persona, which I appreciated alongside the rest of the group. In fact, I joined his website approximately 20 years ago under the pseudonym “SmileyRose,” it was during the days I used to write annonoumously.

Several years ago, I posted on a local forum expressing my desire for a more centrally located cinema. To my surprise, my suggestion was met with a positive response.

This evening, I attended a screening of the film “Better Man,” on my own. The film portrayed Robbie Williams from youth to statdom.. I had been eagerly anticipating the right film to watch at the Odeon cinema at Queensgate, which is a welcoming and modern venue. I thoroughly enjoyed both the cinema experience and the film itself, especially since today was my day off work, after the Christmas holiday.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the directors and cast of this film; it was truly remarkable. I was genuinely moved and even shed a few tears.

What resonated with me the most was the portrayal of Robbie. While the film depicted his early struggles with fame, substance abuse, and personal challenges, it also highlighted his journey of transformation and redemption.

As a long-time fan of Robbie Williams’ music, I was delighted to hear some of my favorite songs featured in the film. His humor reflects a quintessentially British charm, and I found him to be exceptionally entertaining.

Overall, the film was an excellent storytelling experience, and I would certainly consider watching it again.

Frances x

(All Smiles).

100% Brilliant

I like this 👌
Making My First Holy Communion – Angels

Jan 2nd, 2025

This photograph was taken in Salisbury, Wiltshire. I was only 7 yrs old at the time. Father Barry used to pick me up for Catechism Classes.

Catechism classes are Catholic religious education courses that teach Christian doctrine and prepare students for Christian life. The classes typically include questions and answers about God, prayer, salvation, the law, the sacraments, and sin.

Catechism classes are often required for children, starting around first grade and ending around eighth grade. However, the exact age varies by diocese. The Catholic Church recommends that children take at least one year of catechism before preparing for the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist.

Adults may also take catechism classes, often called RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults), before joining the Church. Some adults take catechism classes to study the faith they believe in or to refresh their knowledge.
Black and Gold

Jan 2nd, 2025

Yes, these are all photos of me at different stages of my life.
Somewhere Over The Rainbow….there was Frances Gumm ;)

Jan 2nd, 2025

I have a deep appreciation for classic films, especially the MGM Musicals, particularly those featuring Judy Garland, whose birth name was Frances Gumm. One of my favourites is “The Wizard of Oz,” which I enjoyed watching every Christmas during my childhood.

Of course, my maternal grandmother and my mother were both named Dorothy. Dorothy was played by Judy Garland, whose real name was Frances Gumm. 🙂

The film begins in black and white, showcasing Judy in a beautiful blue and white dress complemented by her iconic red sparkly shoes. There was also Toto her dog. By clicking her heels three times, she was able to return home to Kansas City. Throughout her journey to the Emerald City, she encountered the Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion. It remains a cherished film for me.

Additionally, I was particularly impressed by Renée Zellweger’s portrayal of the real Judy Garland in the film “Judy.”

I saw this film with my daughter a couple of years ago. I loved the film. “Judy”….whose real name was Frances (my namesake) Gumm. 🙂
Rene Zellweger was simply amazing in this film.

Kind regards,
Frances
A Very Happy New Year To Everyone

Jan 1st, 2025

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! I hope you all enjoyed a wonderful celebration.

I am optimistic about a more successful 2025. I believe this year has the potential to be significantly improved, and I remain hopeful that circumstances will continue to improve.

I would like to express my heartfelt thoughts to those of you who have experienced the loss of loved ones over the years, especially in the past year. Please know that you are in my thoughts during this difficult time.

I often take a moment to reflect on the positive experiences I’ve had with the people who have played a significant role in my life. I cherish the memories we created together…..and I mean everyone.

Happy New Year.

Frances x

The London Fireworks looked spectacular and amazing!
At the A&E Department

Dec 31st, 2024

Eww, I spent the afternoon at A&E yesterday. I finally came home in the evening, at around 9pm. Thank you to the staff who looked after me. It was very busy there. There was a really nice elderly Scots gentleman patient whom I chatted with for a while. I do hope he is OK.

Thank you to the nice man who gave me his seat at A&E It was very busy at A&E.

Thanks to the kind doctor who organised a sandwich for me. I’d not eaten for much of the day.

My afternoon seemed a bit of a whirlwind. Our doctors and nurses all seemed so overworked at the A&E Department. They were amazing and very busy.

Frances x

I had a cannula.

……the drip
Mum & Daughter, Love and Joy

Dec 29th, 2024

This weekend has been a fabulous weekend, spent with my daughter Catherine. We had our very own private party with Mum (me) cooking. She did make me breakfast this morning.

It was a beautiful mum and daughter weekend, with lots of presents to open. 😀

Thank you, Catherine xx.

Beef Wellington was on the menu. It was all very delicious. 😋

This is a non alcohol “Woo Woo” which consists of Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice and Lemonade, with ice. If you wanted an alcohol cocktail, just Vodka

😃

As the Christmas season comes to a close, we look forward to welcoming the year 2025. There is much to anticipate, including a continued emphasis on #love and #joy in our lives.🩷

Frances x
The Primrose Railway Children

Dec 28th, 2024

I’m watching “The Primrose Railway Children” 🙂

I love steam trains 🙂

Frances x
Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium

Dec 28th, 2024

It is an absolutely wonderful and colourful film. I love it. Fabulous. 🙂

Frances x
Divorce, Children and the Challenges I Have Faced

Dec 28th, 2024

Q. Have you ever encountered challenges as a single mother, SmileyRose?

A. In life, we all face challenges. It is all about how we try to overcome them, which matters.

I was able to return to work while my former mother-in-law cared for our children. I made it a priority to see them regularly, specifically every other weekend. During the weekends when my daughters were with their father, I focused on my studies.

I did not immediately enter into another relationship after my previous one. The individual I found most trustworthy with my daughters was my former mother-in-law. She was kind and supportive, and I had confidence that she would not say anything to jeopardize my relationship with them. I believe she genuinely cared for both me and our daughters. Navigating divorce can be challenging, and it is essential to focus on the most effective ways to ensure that the children do not experience unnecessary hardship. Their well-being has always been, and continues to be, my top priority.

In the event of a divorce within a family that includes children, the primary focus should not be on the financial aspects of the settlement but rather on the well-being of the children involved. It is essential to prioritize their happiness and consider what arrangements will be in their best interest.

It is important to prioritize the well-being of your children during this transition, ensuring that the divorce does not adversely affect their education, as your love for them remains paramount.

As a single mother, I faced significant challenges. Therefore, the most viable option was to pursue full-time employment, which made it difficult for me to secure optimal childcare solutions.

if it wasn’t for the help of my former mother-in-law, I am unsure how I would have managed.

At the time of my divorce, my ex-husband and I were not in a strong financial position. However, now that both of my daughters are financially secure and have established their careers as adults, after completing university, I am able to focus more on my own life and well-being.

Frances x