COME ON NOW MEN, FALL IN, IF YOU WILL.
It鈥檚 obvious, we are like batteries. The older we get the longer we take to charge and the shorter the charge lasts. I was talking to a guy yesterday and he said鈥
鈥h Chris at my age your energy just comes and goes and gives you no warning either way.
I was thinking about my friend鈥檚 son. He is nine years old. A brilliant footballer, he鈥檚 already on the books of a premiership side. Every time I talk to my friend I enquire as to how little Charlie is doing. My friend will then often recount his last few games and you know it鈥檚 like he never stops, he plays at least five games of footbal a week. If he does eventually turn pro he may well end up playing hundreds of thousands of games.
When you think of all that we do in our lives, the number of times our knees bend, our lungs fill and empty, our brains solve problems, it leaves one spell bound at how amazing we are.
Sure we get old but heck I think we鈥檙e allowed to. It鈥檚 when I think back to how good my body has been to me and all the things we鈥檝e been through together that it makes me want to give something back. That鈥檚 why in the last quarter I鈥檝e started looking after myself completely differently.
This is not a diet. This is an investment in the rest of my life. The path of life is in one way a sliding scale of the things you have to cross off the option list because you鈥檙e no longer able to do them.
Football for example is less and less of an option for me. My friend who has the little lad still plays from time to time and apart from it being embarrassing because it just looks wrong, he can barely move for the rest of the week.
When I go to the gym, everything I do is low impact, light jogging and then the cross trainer, a 鈥渓oad鈥 of stretching and a hefty chunk in the sauna.
You can see elderly people who have looked after themselves; they have a different look about them, a different attitude to life. I want to be in their gang.
I鈥檝e met some highly attractive fifty year old women and some really cool fifty year old guys and they all have one thing in common, they respect themselves and realise what they have been given and polish it every day.
I鈥檝e just been asked would I like a bacon sandwich. Well I鈥檇 love a bacon sandwich, like really love a bacon sandwich but I鈥檓 not having one, may be tomorrow but not today, no thank you.
CLP x.
Comments
Chris, I know what you mean, but I could never pass up the offer of a bacon sandwich......
Good Morning!
Another inspiring blog from you Christophe. Food for thought for my journey to work and I'm so glad I opted for the museli this morning. Have a wonderful day today.
Debs xx
morning Christophe
You're early on parade today!
Totally agree with the respect your body, I've had an epiphany since Christmas and finally realise that I can get my health back if I respect myself.
Have lost a considerable amount of my body mass and am feeling so much better for it. I've vowed I'll be fit by my 40th birthday (9 months from today) and I'm well on course to achieve this
Great thoughts as ever, keep up the good work. Will be listening as usual on my 45 minute trek home, usually get home just as woman's minute is on so sit in the car to listen to that before heading indoors!
TTFN
Tiggy xxx
Chris, I hear all you say, and couldn't agree more (and here it comes my) but a little of what you fancy does you good, and what is life if you deny yourself what you like, "because you shouldn't". A bacon sandwich isn't going to kill you! A number of bacon sandwiches eaten regularly isn't going to kill you, but it's not going to help you live a healthy life style!
Mrs DD nan is 85+ years old and has eaten a bacon sandwich every day for the majority of her life! She goes to the doctors and the nurse says your cholesteral is high cut out bacon sandwiches and eat more oily fish. A. She likes her bacon sandwiches and B. She hates fish of any sort and C. She is 85+ years old and has got there whilst eating bacon sandwiches most days of her life. High Cholesterol is just a line on a chart drawn by man. Does man have a higher power to kill you because you are over that line? No. Only God will decide when your number has been pulled from the great bingo machine in the sky. You get one life, enjoy it while you can 'cos when your numbers up, it's time to pop off this mortal coil. As one who has been run over by a van, and would have died had I not been the size that I was, this is my motto! See Richard Hammond for further examples.
Lecture over.
DD out
Morning Christoff,
I echo your sentiments about looking after yourself.Also making the most of what you,ve been dealt.
On a personal level whilst I do not frequent a gym, (no time) I do a lot of power walking and still keep my morning and evening sit up and press up regime up to speed.
I believe a balanced and healthy diet is important, I have been taking cod liver oil and calcium tablets fot a good few years now and have never suffered any joint problems.
Don,t you feel though that the gene pool has a lot to say in these matters?, my father is 77 and looks far younger, my mother is 76 and the other day when she paid her once monthly to the hairdressers, all the girls there refused to believe her age.
Just before Christmas I went to a school reunion and failed to recognise many of my former school friends, the majority had aged very badly.
I felt very flattered when most of them recognised me straight away, and said I had not changed much.
I have not met that many attractive 50 year old women though,on TV yes, there they are, but not in the real world I fear. Sorry ladies I know that was a contentious statement, perhaps its just the midlands (whoops).
I,m a 51 year old Corporate buyer , 6" 2", own teeth , hair, and slim with a 26 year old girlfriend.
Pottsie.
Good morning, Christoff, et chacun!
Like batteries, eh? I can wholeheartedly agree with you there! Even trying to get out of bed some days takes for ever - my hips don鈥檛 lie 鈥 they hurt like nobody鈥檚 business! Yet, despite the aches and pains that have come with Mummy-hood and the marching years, I do agree - we are fearfully and wonderfully made!
I miss being a child! Snow Patrol鈥檚 鈥楥hasing Cars鈥 takes me right back there when I listen to it - 鈥業f I lay here, If I just lay here, Would you lie with me and just forget the world?鈥 - because it reminds me of lying on my back, in a field watching the stars at night or the clouds during the day, my neighbour鈥檚 dog, Bobby, always at my side. I miss the freedom, the carefree way I lived my life (despite some dark things happening in my life back then), the energy I had then. As you say, though, now we have to invest in the rest of our lives, do the things that we still can, giving thanks for that, and leaving behind the things that we can no longer do.
My hubby is 43 and still plays football once a week. In the Summer, he still plays for our local cricket team (yes 鈥. we have a cricket league in the Highlands of Scotland!). But he gets so many aches and pains with his sports now! I think he would be devastated if he ever had to give up his sports, but I鈥檓 hoping he can keep them up for a good few years yet.
Now, Christoff 鈥 you鈥檙e teasing us so much these days! Who is asking you at 7.50am if you鈥檇 like a bacon sarnie!? Hmmm 鈥.
Have a great day! Hug Enzo and hug the bacon sarnie person! See you at 5pm, all being well.
Huggles, Susan
PS I have a difficult day ahead of me. Our daughter was up most of the night, so I鈥檓 shattered - her wee pal is due here any minute to spend the day with us - and my pal Annie, her partner and their son is moving to Manchester tomorrow, so we are saying goodbye to her today. :(
Morning Chris,
I am in the middle of a rehaul of my thinking.
Have taken to eating more healthy food, starting to excercise, aiming to be fit enough to run the marathon next year.
And taken my exams to be a hockey umpire.
Feel so much more positive about life!
And its Thursday so only 3 days till the rugby!!!
Ireland to win, but i hope england score some points to.
Have a lovely day all
kerry m
Hi Chris, up early again hon?
Life must be pretty chipper in the Evans household, especially if you are having breakfast cooked for you eh?
Not knowing how old your friend is, I have to say I agree 100% with his statement. Some days I have NOTHING to give and just go through the motions, and other days I fly through work, and then get home and fly around doing all the stuff that I haven't done since the last time I felt I could do it! (Hoping that makes some sense...)
My Aunt and Uncle are two of the 'elderly' people of whom you speak. They have always walked and gone to lovely places, and looked after themselves. My Mum is the same too. She has had to slow down a bit, but she takes herself off on all sorts of holidays and trips. They are all the ultimate in hospitality, and even though they are getting on, they STILL have so much to give everyone else too.
...and me? Well, I'm trying to change direction, but I have weetabix (other biscuit based breakfast cereals available) for breakfast in the week, and then a cooked breakfast at the weekend...and the boy and I go for lovely walks along the seaside or around the local parks...
We won't be wearing 'slacks' and a light jacket for some time yet though! We've got this far, and we fully intend to go a lot further before we oil the wheels on the bath chair!
...and Chris, if you want a bacon sandwich that much, then don't deny yourself if you know that you are going to enjoy it!
petit cochon
love
hazel
x
ps Bob Dylan
...and for your delectation and delight this Thirsty Thursday...
It is called "This is Daddy"
"Hi honey. This is Daddy. Is Mummy near the phone?"
"No, Daddy. She's upstairs in the bedroom with Uncle Paul."
After a brief pause,
Daddy says, "But honey, you haven't got an Uncle Paul."
"Oh yes I do, and he's upstairs in the room with Mummy, right now."
Brief pause.
"Uh, okay then, this is what I want you to do. Put the phone down on
the table, run upstairs and knock on the bedroom door and shout to
Mummy that Daddy's car just pulled into the driveway."
"Okay, Daddy, just a minute."
A few minutes later the little girl comes back to the phone.
"I did it, Daddy."
"And what happened, honey?" he asked.
"Well, Mummy got all scared, jumped out of bed with no clothes on,
then she ran around screaming. Then she tripped over t he rug, hit her
head on the dresser and now she isn't moving at all!"
"Oh my God! What about your Uncle Paul?"
"He jumped out of the bed with no clothes on, too. He was all scared
and he jumped out of the back window and into the swimming pool. I
guess he didn't know that you took out the water last week to clean
it. He hit the bottom of the pool and I think he's dead."
**Long Pause***
**Longer Pause***
**Even Longer Pause***
Then Daddy says, "Swimming pool?............Is this 0181-5731....?"
Yo blog dudes - it's Thirsty Thursday already. One step away from the weekend - hurrah!
Today's blog really hit a chord with me. Most of you have probably read on here that I'm training for the Moonwalk in May - lots of power walking, and on non-walking days I'm swimming. Well, yesterday was a swim day. I had one hell of a day at work - got here just before 8am and got away from here at about 5.10 pm with an afternoon spent entertaining an elderley WI group on the rights and wrongs of recycling. Anyhooo ... I so didn't feel like going swimming. I just wanted to get home, open a bottle of red and watch the Dragons in their Den. But I pushed myself. I went swimming and once I got going, I ended up doing 35 lengths (five more than Monday night), a spell in the steam room and a jacuzzi. When I got home (near 7ish) Mr Diva had dinner ready and I felt wonderful.
I've still got a lot of weight to shift, but I feel fitter now that I have done for yonks. This Saturday me and Mr Diva are treating ourselves to a spa day at a nearby forest-based holiday complex and I can't wait to just chill out and forget my woes for a few hours.
Bliss.
Loved the WI lady on last night's show. As previously said, I have lots of interest from the WI here at recycle central - they're so keen! Although I have to say that yesterday's group were quite hard work as they were very rural, very old and to be quite honest, extremely posh!
Righteo, best crack on - have another party booked in this morning so need to gulp down some strong coffee to wake me up before I go go!
Laters, amigos.
CtD x x
Morning!
I often get thoughts of the possiblities trickling out of my hands! I could no longerbe a doctor or a ballerina!!!
I am only 26 but since having my little boy I have constantly aware of how fast the days past now and I have a new appreciation for time and just how prescious it is!
I also wanna go travelling on my 40th birthday! Im sure things will get in the way but as long as i believe it!!! So this has made me be less lazy with my body, i moisterise a little more!!!
em26x
Morning all.
Ah yes the good feeling of knowing you've done something, no matter how small, that can make you feel better (even if it is giving up a bacon sarnie!) is something to treasure.
I've had a rethink about life, health and the universe since my mum was diagnosed with cancer and I've seen the after effects of the treatment so went to the gym last night and just a bit of light exercise helped to shake off the bad feelings of the working day. As long as I can build up to get through the Race for Life in a few months I'll be fine. The exercise will make me feel better and I know that in the end, it's all for a good cause as well.
Poitive thinking and a treat every now and then is the best way forward!
Cat
hi
That is willpower I couldn't say no to
a bacon sarnie!
mange tout mange tout x
A middle-aged couple had two beautiful daughters but always talked
about having a son. They decided to try one last time for the son they
always
wanted. The wife got pregnant and delivered a healthy baby boy.
The joyful father rushed to the nursery to see his new son. He was
horrified at the ugliest child
he had ever seen. He told his wife: "There's no way I can be the father of
this baby. Look at the two beautiful daughters I fathered! Have you been
fooling
around behind my back?"
The wife smiled sweetly and replied:
"Not this time!"
Hi Chris,
Great blog - I am new to this blogging business but I am now hooked on it - its the first port of call in the morning after I turn on my computer.. First time I have written as I have to agree with you but also agree with - Dissing dave - is that possible - I think so as life is too short to go without the little pleasures in life, just make sure that they are little pleasures & treats, not all the time treats - or they dont become treats!! I am a great believer of when your times up its up... So go out there and live life, love life, love yourself because if you are happy in your own body then other people will love you for it!
Have a great one xxx
Hi Chris and bevryoddy,
Liked your thoughts today Chris (as I do most days) can see where you're comming from, but on the whole have to agree with Dissing Dave, 1 life, enjoy it while you can.
I for one, take every day as it comes and squeeze the most I can from it, in the past I've had open heart surgery, was diagnosed as having MS, and have also had anaphalactic shock.
I feel I have a very positive outlook on life and the MS diddn't get me 'cos I wouldn't let it. I realise that this was probably due to that 'luck of the draw' thing and am fully aware of what an evil, terrible disease it is for a lot of people, and my heart goes out to them.
As for bacon sarni's you can stick 'em 'cos I'm a veggie, I do however indulge in several glasses of Italian red (wine of other nationalities are available) and I smoke.
My view is if my way of life knocks a few days off at the end so what. What will I be up to when i'm old that I need an extra few days to complete?
Sorry I've gone on and on, anyway take every day, shake it, enjoy it to the max.
Take care
Nicki
Hi Chris,
You do speak alot of sense and agree with you completely.
I also think you need to be a happy person as well.
I think Pottsie is rude.....may be the people at
the school reunion recognised him by his big head!
I know alot of women who would not go near a 50 year old man, they are much to much work and very set in their ways. She might just be with him because he is a corpate buyer!!!!
Hello all,
I gave up smoking 3 days ago and I'm feeling very pleased with myself. Also today is the first day that my patch is not itching or causing a rash, I now truly believe I can beat this addiction (with Percy the patch鈥檚 help). I'm 25 next week and I, like you Chris, am realising I don't want to be old and ugly, but old and beautiful!
The most satisfying thing since quitting - being able to change my personal details on myspace to that of a non-smoker! Hurrah! Anyhow, heading to Cornwall today to spend some quality time with my family and spend thirsty Thursday drinking wine with my mum! Hurrah again! Josie xx
Hi Chris,
When I was younger I didn't look after my body at all and I'm paying the price now. I'm 38 but look (at least) 5 years older, and feel I'm going downhill fast. I exercise every day now, I eat healthily most of the time and don't drink as often as I used to, but I wonder if its too little too late. Some people have good genes and I don't think I do, but I can't use that as an excuse forever. I can't honestly say I enjoyed it when I drank and smoke too much. I wish I could turn back the clock and do it all again.
Sorry to sound so sorry for myself!
Em M xx
Ps Susan S - love your honest messages, you come across as a lovely person xx
hi chris we should all treat our bodies like a greek temple i want to still be riding my mountain and road bikes when im 80 im 42 now all the best still love the show how about a one off TFI just for nostalger did you see jamies chefs last night?
i know what you mean about looking after yourself, getting to the gym isnt easy but i have started walking from the tram stop, running up the stairs, playing football with the man cub and generally trying to be a bit more active.
More importantly than that tho, i have stopped dieting. In 4 mths i think i have lost roughly half a stone, not a lot you may think but i have never been so consistent, less driven by food and more accepting of myself. i say think cos i have chucked out my scales and that in itself was a relief (if you think you cant do it, you definately should!)
I will continue to do this and i am sure that in a year or so i will be at a normal, healthy weight that suits me.
life is good if you respect yourself. Now where is that bacon.
xx
Hi Chris,
I know what you mean, I had a high alcohol, low food diet for a long while, and having had some assistance I now stay well clear of the booze and actually eat and its funny but I'd fordotten how much I actually like food...........
But it does make you realise what we have!
Its all a bit heavy today isnt it.....common somebody lighten it up please
P
It`s a bit like the expression - There are bold drivers and there are old drivers but there are no old, bold drivers. Likewise there are no old fat and unfit people. Contriversial, no. A fact, yes. I`m overweight and know it, it`s not good for me. I harken back to the days when I ran the London Marathon in 1983, then I was as fit as a fiddle, both mentally and physically. Fortunatly for most of us we write our own destiny and can, with will power and all that (that`s the tricky bit!) follow a sensible path.
Chris, the only worry you should have is whatever you drink or eat today, will it help prevent you reaching a ripe old age. Coz if you do get to matureity, your weight automatically falls off you wether you like it or not. We spend 50 yrs trying to keep looking fit and healthy and never seem to be happy, then we spend the rest of our days telling our friends and siblings that mum or dad is losing too much weight and we are concerned. You can't win, coz thats life.....
Hi
On the losing options front - Em26, I'm 32, and recently got my PhD. I did my first degree at 23 when I got sick of factory work. Ok, I was three years younger than you are now, but you'd still only be in your thirties when you finished. So you could still be a doctor! Or if time/money is a problem, take advice about part time stuff or one-off residential courses. You could be a Reiki specialist, a yoga teacher, a dog trainer, an accountant... the options are all there!
Not sure about the ballerina bit, but there's loads of ballet schools that do classes for grown ups. You could pretend.
Peter -
Children Writing About the Sea:
1) This is a picture of an octopus. It has eight testicles. (Kelly age 6)
2) Oysters' balls are called pearls. (James age 6)
3) If you are surrounded by sea you are an Island. If you don't have sea all round you, you are in continent. (Wayne age 7)
4) Sharks are ugly and mean, and have big teeth, just like Emily Richardson. She's not my friend no more. (Kylie age 6)
5) A dolphin breaths through an ar*ehole on the top of its head. (Billy age
6) My uncle goes out in his boat with pots, and comes back with crabs. (Millie age 6)
7) When ships had sails, they used to use the trade winds to cross the ocean. Sometimes, when the wind didn't blow, the sailors would whistle to make the wind come. My brother said they would be better off eating beans. (William age 7)
8) I like mermaids. They are beautiful, and I like their shiny tails. How do mermaids get pregnant? (Helen age 6)
9) I'm not going to write about the sea. My baby brother is always screaming and being sick, my Dad keeps shouting at my Mum, and my big sister has just got pregnant, so I can't think what to write. (Amy age 6)
10) Some fish are dangerous. Jellyfish can sting. Electric eels can give you a shock. They have to live in caves under the sea where I think they have to plug themselves into chargers. (Christopher age 7)
11) When you go swimming in the sea, it is very cold, and it makes my willy small. (Kevin age 6)
12) Divers have to be safe when they go under the water. Two divers can't go down alone, so they have to go down on each other. (Becky age
:-O
13) On holiday my Mum went water skiing. She fell off when she was going very fast. She says she won't do it again because water shot up her fa**y. (Julie age 7)
CLP,
How true - we really do abuse our bodies! Not that I'm a "My body is my temple" kinda gal, but I too take more care of myself than I used to. It's what we all should do.
I often can be heard to say that I'm getting too old to play netball (36 now), but at my club, there's a whole team of 50 somethings - they're my inspiration - if they can do it, then so can I! Admittedly, they do play several divisions below me, but, well, if that's the trade off, then so be it! (Note, I do have a cold bath after I've played, much to the merriment of my kids who stand outside the bathroom, just so they can hear me howling!!)
Dieting is harsh and cruel - to mind as well as body - all we need do is make small changes - just as you did Chris, and choose a healthier option. After time, you'll find that actually, you don't want the less healthy option at all.
My alcohol intake has significantly reduced lately - more by accident than design. But WOW, do I feel good in the mornings! Less puffiness around the face, sharper grey matter, far less lethargic as well.
The thing is though, that we all know this is the 'right' thing, but we don't want to do it until we're ready to. Is this the last little bit of youthful rebellion? I know I used to eat badly and partake of too much wine, but if anyone ever told me that, I'd be more determined than ever to go out late, get hammered and eat a kebab!! It comes to us all at some point and that point is usually the right one for us.
Just for the record - if I do want a drink, I have one (nice bottle of something in the fridge right now actually), if I fancy a kebab/choc bar/bacon sarnie/curry, I have one. A LITTLE of what you fancy never did any harm!
Right gotta go - flutterby man has just e-mailed....
Have a Tremendous thirsty Thursday all!
S xx.
I've read the blog since it started, and read it most days.
I've almost post many many times but not got round to it.
I had to today though.
I'm reading it eating a bacon and tomato sandwich........
Hi Chris,
I have a twin sister, we will both be 42 next month. All her life she has strived to be the very best at everything she has done. From learning how to walk to being in county teams for hockey, netball, clay pigeon shooting, she is very high up in a well known computer company, travels abroad all the time. (She says she hates it!)
She is vegetarian and eats fish most of the time. She doesn't drink and she exercises like an olympic trainer every waking moment when she isn't trundling up the old stepladder to the top of the pack.
I am a laid back, take it easy sort of person. I have a job I quite like, doesn't pay much. Never do sport - it hurts!
I am allergic to all fish and eat meat only.
I like a drink or three and socialising with my friends, watching footie down the pub, going for a curry after. Going to bed at three in the morning on a saturday after singing and dancing all night.
You couldn't meet two more different people - and YET! - we were born on the same day to the same parents.
I don't know why this is!
Do you think you can divide a whole personality into two halves and give each half to two people? I am sure that is what happened!
Anyhoo, I love a bacon buttie - and will bear in mind what you say about keeping the machine well oiled!!
Lorna
xxxxx
ON A LIGHTER NOTE...
IF YOU EVER GET BORED WITH SHOPPING TRY THESE:
Take 24 boxes of condoms and randomly put them in people's trolleys when they aren`t looking.
Set all the alarm clocks in Housewares to go off at 5 minute intervals.
Make a trail of tomato juice on the floor leading to feminine products aisle.
Walk up to an employee and tell them in an official tone, "Code 3" in housewares..... and watch what happens.
Move the 'CAUTION - WET FLOOR' sign to a carpeted area.
Looked right into the security camera; use it as a mirror, pick your nose and...
While appearing to be choosing a kitchen knife in the Housewares aisle ask an assistant if they know where the antidepressants are.
Dart around the store suspiciously, loudly humming the "Mission Impossible" theme.
In the kitchenware aisle, practise the "Madonna look" using different size funnels.
Hid in a clothing rack and when people browse, yell "PICK ME!" "PICK ME!"
When an announcement comes over the loud speaker, assume the foetal position and scream "NO! NO! It's those voices again."
Go into a fitting room, shut the door, waite a while; then yell, very loudly, "There`s no toilet paper in here."
hey chris nice to see you made the Jackie photo story this morning ;-)
or was it the daily star !!!!
Just wanted to say thanks for a great show with lots of interesting guests. I am usually driving when listening and it really brightens the dull journey home (traffic jams etc) Anyway, I wanted to ask the Fox if any actresses have actually said anything to any Bishops and if so is it always rude? If not, where does this saying originate from?
So, a horse walks into a bar....
My body is a temple.
Whether I eat bacon sarnies or muesli, it remains a temple.
Whether I go to the gym or not, it remains a temple. Whether I do any exercise at all while I'm there or just sit in the jacuzzi, it remains a temple.
Whether I drink a glass of a cheeky red, a whole bottle or none at all, it remains a temple.
I guess I'm just lucky that way.
It was something I was born with and it's something that will stay with me til the day I die, whether that's before the 40th (a few months to go and counting) or at 140.
Fortunately, I've passed it on to the kids.
Unfortunately, I can't pass on my secret to the rest of you - except a few special ones who know my secret already ;-)
Moose
Hi CLP
Glad to hear you have someone offering you bacon sarnies at that time of the morning ;)
I heard you on about your natural weight last night and it really struck a chord with me. It does seem that we have a natural weight that we are if we just eat and that if we cut down and exercise more we can make ourselves leaner. It's just that some people have a leaner "natural" weight than others. I have always struggled with my "natural" weight unless I'm in a really active job. Alas, right now I'm not. But the one I have is great and I love it and by the way thanks for having Paul Nixon on last night. He's a top bloke (one of my mates) and the Bahamas thing he mentioned is what I'm involved with so that was an awesome shout from him.
Have a great show tonight I'm off to Nico's first benefit do at the Walker Stadium.
Luv
Lyndyloo
-x-x-x-
I'm with Kevin! (Moose age 39)
Other news.
They have caught a 'Colossal Squid'. Apparently it is about the same length as a 'Giant Squid' but weighs more, this one an estimated 450kg and about 10m in length. It is also the first adult colossal squid landed intact.
One chap was quoted as saying calamari rings made from it would be like tractor tyres.
I don't like calamari. I don't care how fresh it is or how properly cooked it may be, I don't like it. I cannot even IMAGINE for one minute trying to eat any part of this colossus, but can you even conceive of the amount of batter you'd need?????
For some reason, lost for ever in the mists of time, I decided a long time ago that I wouldn't eat things that could swim backwards. This would also include octopus, even those with eight testicles.
I also have a violent aversion (as some of you may know) to prunes.
Thank you for your time
love
hazel
x
ps Pickle! and?
hello everyone and positive vibes (PV's) coming to you!
Danny Dayglo LOL!
Em - don鈥檛 feel sorry for your self..do something!
Honestly, I tell all my younger friends that definitely it is a really big struggle to lose weight after 40, I am living proof..I wish I have started exercise when I was younger..because I would have been fit now.. It鈥檚 a long slog, but I鈥檒l do it!
The other thing I tell younger friends and children 鈥 look after your teeth!
Cat 鈥 Race for life 鈥 train if that motivates you, great, but honestly it is a lovely time, you can walk, chat to people..and the person who came last (I probably was 20th from Last) got the BIGGEST cheer! for me it wasn鈥檛 about the RACE it was about the LIFE. I did the 5 km with my 6 yr old daughter last year and we will be doing it this year too. Go for it!
Happy thirsty Thursday everyone
Love Caroline x
I`m in heaven... oh yes...
Danny Dayglow #30 - you just had me in stitches. Yep. I'm actually sitting at my desk in my portacabin with tears of laughter streaming down my cheeks - hope no TNT drivers come in for a signature coz they'll think I'm a loon ....
Great news fellow bloggers .... I've got a job interview next Tuesday for a PA job!! Hurrah!! They rang me this morning - they had 63 applications and will be seeing 17 of us early next week, then that will be whittled down to second interviews ..... fingers crossed, eh!?
Although the idea of becoming PA to CLP is rather alluring ...
Back at desk in cold portacabin now with no more tours/visits booked until next week, and the boss man is out all today and all tomorrow - yippee! On the down side, I've got a report to write but I keep blogging instead - doh!
Looking forward to the show tonight
CtD
PS: Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play?
Hiya Chris
I went to have my Fruit & Fibre for brekkie du matin and my lovely partner had left the milk out all night and it was rank!
I had bacon, eggs & mushrooms in our canteen instead. It was great! I then only had soup for lunch to make up.
BACON BACON BACON!!!!
Yummy
Tessa
Danny Day-glo - is a bit unoriginal as I received his post as an entertaining email last week.
Is that plagarism? (have I spelt that right?)
Tessa
Hi Magpie!
Very sound advice! I do already have a degree in politics, and am doing my masters in international studies through open university while i work full time.
It will take time but one day I will get there!!
em26xx
CLP
Quick blog, I'm trying to escape Reading before the gridlock.
I'm 36 going on 23.
Well that's the way I feel and think.
I exercise almost every day, like a drink and packed up smoking (never alot) just over a year ago - the odd cigar is enjoyed now and then.
Oh, and I have been veggie for 18 years.
And that's what seems to do it. A nice balance.
Enjoy what you enjoy, but keep everything in moderation.
A bit of what you fancy, if you like.
Right now I fancy finishing these pesky spreadsheets and hitting road.
To get to the gym, of course.
Peace and love
MfR
PS I get up, but nothing gets me down.
Afternoon all,
At this moment I am cooking sausages for a sausage sandwich. They are low fat, but thats not why I bought them. I bought them because they taste better than the others, are firmer to the bite, cook easier and are made from outdoor reared pork.
As a pet nutritionalist I used to ask my customers what diet their pets were on. More often than not they would reply 'oh, he's not on a diet. Do you think he should be?' Of course I would then explain that the diet was what he ate, rather than a restrited diet where control has been taken to remove certain elements of the basic food groups. So, really, everyone is on a diet and I believe its a word banded about too readily.
The question is, is it a good one? Restricted diets such as low fat, low calorie, no carbs are pretty much guaranteed to fail due to the very nature of the body. All these elements are required to ensure the body functions properly, and if certain organs are not receiving what they need they will shout out to the brain which then feels like a craving.
A balanced diet is the only way to maintain a healthy body. From hormone production to joint mobility to maintenance of vital organs and even to appearance, at the end of the day it boils down to what you eat.
Of course, exercise is good too, but not half as tasty as a sausage sandwich!
mange tout!
MW,a!
Hi Chris
How do you do it - all that energy and without eating baacon sarnies. Next time grill the bacon - eat the sarny, have lots of energy and a happy belly to boot !! Great show keep us all smiling...
Hi Chris,
I'm probably too late with this and you'll never see it, but you are right in that we should look after ourselves. Unfortunately it's too late for me. I am more sensible now but in my day I was solely responsible for buying Pierre Smirnoff at least two of his yachts and I am sure my body will pay the price for that!
I would say that depriving yourself of a bacon sandwich only results in being deprived of a bacon sandwich.
Heard a bit of the show last night, wish I could hear it all, it's so brilliant.
Couple of things:
Peter #22 - I know what you mean, but some days everyone wants to be a bit "heavy".
Sammie #27 - you are cheating at feeling so good because of Mr Flutterby. We all remember what THAT feels like! Food? Who needs it?!
Pottsie #5 - it must just be the Midlands. I know several 50 year-old women who look terrific, myself included (even with the vodka). Think Nigella Lawson - o.k. without the ability to cook, and without the money. However, I have the waist and the jet black hair which I have never had to dye! Incidentally, your girlfriend is way, way, too young for you!
C xx
I can't agree more - I am in California at a trade show at the moment, and I just can't beleive that the septics aren't dead by the age of 15; it's not just the size of the portions, but also that there is nothing that can't be fried. The irony is that you have to pay more to get less over here
Hello Chris
Ive not been very well after an op (blah blah) and have not recovered as I had expected to. Now I realise how important it is to look after this thing I walk around . I am determined to change my life style once I am up and about and follow my children's example and keep fit. Last evening while waiting to pick up my son from football training found you on the radio,(nice to hear your voice again) and looked today to see what time you're on and there you are chatting about looking after the old bod. Make sure you do cause it's scary when it not doing what you want it to!!!
Take care
And
Hi Chris, I'm trying to be in the fit oldies club
too, started yoga 8 years ago am now 43 its
definately got to get me on the waiting list for
this exclusive club........you should see my
yoga teacher wow what a bod....she's 65, you
would not believe how strong and supple she
is. So eat well, sleep well... red wine and dark
choc help, which is most excellent. all in
moderation.
Sandie
Howdy
(Wondering if this will get thru because I've had heaps of "You are not allowed to post" messages recently so I gave up trying :-)
Sometimes a little bit of wot you fancy is good for you. Beginning of the week I was at a Crematorium 'remembering' someone, having organised the day off so that I could without getting tangled up in work and travelled down the night before. Have not been at that end of town since the same time last year (Lordie, how much has changed, a new enormous supermarket, "Loading only" between 8.30 and 5pm etc etc). On the way back (having got trapped in the Hall of Remembrance by a funeral leaving, not wanting to try to squeeze past everyone boo-hoo-ing and cuddling, shaking hands etc; Good God, when I had to stand there for them all filtering past did it REALLY take 20mins ? That day is just a haze) I remembered the "lcoal" take-away there did the most GORGEOUS Calzone Pizza (for the uninitiated, a Calzone is a VERY thin pizza where they put the gubbins inside, fold it over and then bake it. The gubbins in my case was Chicken Tikka, Mushrooms, Green Peppers and Onions.) The King-Size is only 拢1 dearer so........... 20 mins after ordering I rummaged about in the boot of my car and found my 'emergency' fork and knife (I dread to think what else is in there, that boot and I are gonna have a serious talk soon). 15 mins later (what a pig), it was all over my face, down my nice white shirt and new tie and all over my freshly laundered suit (well, it's not easy having a 'meal' like that in your car). Then I got stuck in peak time traffic, got caught up in the new one-way system that wasn't there last year and it took me an hour to get back to where the journey there had taken 20 mins. Was it worth it? What you DO think? (I didn't even care when my feet got tangled up in the seatbelt getting out the car and I had a mega-pratfall on to the street. Add mud to the knees and lapels on my suit.) I promised myself I was gonna work it off next day at gym. Felt even better when I decided on the day not to bother (ha ha). However, getting ready (3.30pm) to pop over to gym and then go to 5.30 'Pump' class. I might even go afterwards the six miles to a 'reciprocal' club at 7.30pm for Body-Balance (are we laying bets?)
On the subject of Body-Pump and a different "a little bit of what you like", merged in with red-face-of-the-day and "what would people THINK", I've become quite engrossed with the opening track for the current Body-Pump (no60, no61 will be out in a few weeks time, the Quarterly is up here on March 3rd), even caught myself humming it during day when no-one is about. I Google'd it today and was (sort-of) mortified to discover that the "Invincible" by Carola that Les Mills / BTS are using to open the current BodyPump which I have been singing under my breath in class was/is a pumped up (no pun intended) version of Sweden's 2006 entry for the Eurovision. Oh well.
Onwards and upwards...........
As always, have a good one poeple.
Hi Chris,
Great blog.... :) Positive ... I like that.
You mentioned on the show yesterday that some people get to a certain weight then just don't get any bigger no matter what they eat. Well I have a theory about the body and fat ... this is it..
Imagine a car has two petrol tanks. A small one ( Stomach) and an overflow one (Fat) . Each time you fill up with petrol (food) the excess that you put in goes into the overflow tank ( fat) . This car will only take fuel from small tank to move around and as long as there is fuel in there , it's never even going to look at the overflow tank anyway. So, if you constantly overfill the small tank, the overflow tank gets fuller and fuller, and the car gets fat and heavy. There comes a point though where the car reaches critical mass, this is a state of equilibrium where the weight of the extra fuel in the overflow tank means that there is a much bigger draw on the fuel in the small tank, ( the miles per gallon drops). So the car becomes thirsty for more petrol more often cos it's using it up the fuel more quickly just to move around. So fat folk get stuck at the point where the fuel put in is equal to the energy required to move around.
It's not the glands- it's not hereditary , it's not the time of life .... It's the Doughnuts!
Keep smiling
Rachel
Tessa Beeching - it's only plaguarism if Mr Glo passes it off as all his own work.
CtD - Fingers +d for your interview.
Mariella, you are so wise....
Where is wilsmar lately please?
...and the picture on the Sun website (other red top daily websites are available but I don't know if they'd have the picture) don't half look like girl on sofa...dunno why, just a feeling, maybe the hair...dunno...
vive le soir
love
hazel
x
Afternoon CLP and schloggers
So tell me, do you think a bottle of wine a day is too much?
J-n-J
Sammie - Can't believe I missed you! Hope all is settling down after the 14th...!
Rachel...blue angel?
ChrissieS - you astound me...
...and now I've just been sent home early. Lovely.
ciao and adieu
love
hazel
x
ps Might as well jump
Hi dudes,blog virgin here.Just had to say as a Kevin I'm glad Moose #36 is with me,good,I need the support!
As for you J not J and your wine question.Well,if you start drinking at breakfast and sip all day you won't get drunk but people will think you're an alcoholic.On the other hand if you drink it all watching Eastenders (understandable) you won't get so many comments but it'll be worse for you.
I'd hide it in one of those Thermos mugs and pretend it's coffee!
Now then
How to keep fit.
If you can't afford the cost of a Gym membership buy a skipping rope.
If you have to smoke then do it outside and get a bit of fresh air in the bargain.
Go food shopping on a full stomach and watch your trolley dramatically reduce in size.
Suck all the chocolate off a malteaser and make it last twice.
viva las vegas
hi chris-great message today-i am a 52 year old lady and am 21 in my brain!! walk my dogs 5+ miles a day and love life. you are right to say what you said about your body.
Hi Hazel,
Wow, you recognisded my writing ..... {{U}}
: yep Blue Angel .... it's been a while ... but I'm back. More tomoz
Keep smiling
Rachel x
Ah Christophe lambie Pie. There's nowt wrong with your batteries.
And if you're hungry, go get that bacon butty. Just don't have three.
You know, my old grandma bless her used to say "It's smashin' gettin' old. Kids and old folk get away with murder."
And she wasn't wrong. Mind you, she was truly barking, even had the release certificate from Winwick Hospital proudly displayed on the sideboard.
Thing is, you're in the first flush. Fifty is the New Black. I've had a blast since turning the Big 5-0 and still blasting. I just now don't wear the puffball skirts, don't slick on the bright red lipstick lest I look like Hilda Ogden and never, EVER, dance in public.
Anyone for milk stout?
Clodagh.xx
thank you Susan S.............
hazel. your ability to remember things people said, the way people write and generally anyone who is 'missing' astounds me. You must be a very thoughtful and giving person - i wish i had that skill/quality..... you see, even when complimenting someone else i cant help but bring it back to me.
self self self.
HL you are a very lovely lady.... whoops sorry - bowl of sugar, table two.
Hi Chris
With you all the way on keeping fit for older age. If you can just keep your young attitude of mind and not turn into a grumpy, you are half way there.
I have forsaken the gym for Tai Chi , I recommend it mate and a great work out for the body and soul.
Ken x
The people on here are squarer than they were a few months ago you've become less sex. Exploration goes unrecognised with beavery people. Is everything action related? There's a battery link somewhere.
Hello, Hell, H ..................
INSERT NEW BATTERIES
Hey Gingerman! (cue Superman Theme!)
Who'd have thought that Gazza would be able to do anything with the SAS, let alone train for a movie. What with Gingerman going healthy, and Gazza doing runs and assault courses, the 3 Musketeers of yore might se 50! LOL! Just need to get Baker a fitness guru.. hmm
What with one Lois on telly every day, trading off you, and another making her own way and money. how does Clark Kent cope?
Good show today, interesting stuff from Nige about Artichokes. How will we survive without The Fox. You've GOT to play Hendrix Foxy Lady at least once before she goes on sabbatical ;)
A quote for MOOSE
鈥淵our daily life is your temple and your religion. When you enter into it take with you your all.鈥
Kahlil Gibran
EG
Message to Steve Potts,
your opinion of 50+ women is very depressing. Many a good tune played on an old fiddle!
Hi Chris , I am lucky enough to live in Pattaya, Thailand, i don't know if you have ever visited this part of the world? Everyday I see western slobs, with great guts, drinking and smoking all day long. I am 48 and like you when I reached 40 decided I might be nearer the end than the beginning of my life. So I look after myself. I find swimming the best exercise for me.
I have followed your career all the way since GLR. I am lucky enough to have the breakfast show on local radio here, I have to say you are my inspiration. Cheers mate!!!
Good morning one and all, wherever you are in the world.
Actually Clive, Sorry, glad I'm not living in Pattaya the Benidorm of Thailand with knocking shops around every corner. Do you get your clothes made up at that little shop. The one where you can have them made up in 24hrs and then send them striaght to Oxfam?
Viva la difference.
I'm gonna open a book. We all know that Mr CE blogs late on a Monday and a Friday, so what time do we think he will appear today?
I'm going for 3.48pm.
Is it me, or is there some sniping creeping in on this here blog?
Apparently we are having less sex (or something), are past it when we're 50 (unless we are a male corporate buyer), have unsuitable relationships and live in undesirable places. I'm all up for an argument - in fact had one last night with a fly tipper - but I thought we were intelligent enough to come back with reasoned and well thought out responses. Oh well, I look forward to my verbal battering.
Til later,
MW, a!
Hey Frances at #64:
I'm totally gagging for it.
Explicit enough?
Hey - wassup? I blogged at about half seven this morning and it's not appeared.
Now what have I done?!?!?
Lots of love from a very rejected
CtD x
Morning everyone!
Mariella, d'you know I think you might be right...I have alread called you wise...
Come now, Prof Plum, there must be a nice bit of Pattaya. Apparently there are even nice bits of the Midlands.
NOW YOU ALL KNOW I DON'T MEAN IT!!!!!
Anyway to business.
anna - thank you for your kind words. If only you knew...
Rachel - fab to have you back babe. Hope all is well xx
...and as we're by the sea, an ARF poem requested by my boss. I have researched and found, and hope you all enjoy this gem from Christopher Isherwood.
The Common Cormorant or Shag
The common cormorant or shag
Lays eggs inside a paper bag,
The reason you will see no doubt
It is to keep the lightning out.
But what these unobservant birds
Have never noticed is that herds
Of wandering bears may come with buns
And steal the bags to hold the crumbs.
**
Wishing you all a happy ARF
love
hazel
x
ps Honey, honey, yeah
Mariella,
I bet 50p on 2.43 pm , I will keep my ticket till monday to check when the maestro logs on as I,m offski @ 12.
Bighead
(formerly Pottsie)
Thanks very much Chris!!!
I am off to a gentlemen's dinner tonight and I am bound to overdo the eating and drinking.
Your attempt to make me feel guilty about diet will not work.
I have spent all of my life playing active sports and continue to play golf 3 times / week. I feel I can afford to occasionally overdo the food and drink, so I do.
Incidently, since Mick Stephens opened the halfway house on our golf course I cannot play the back 9 without a bacon roll and coffee.
Phil Clark
Good morning, Christoff and you lovely bunch of people (well 鈥.. some of you are 鈥 some of you seem to have gotten out the wrong side of bed today!).
How are we all this ARF!? Our cat has gone manic and is, quite literally, tearing round the furniture and walls. I think Spring is in the air! Had the wee lass to the GP this morning - now she鈥檚 on antibiotics! Have to take the guinea pig to the vet this afternoon. But at least I have a night out with a couple of old school pals tonight and hubby鈥檚 taking me out tomorrow for a meal! And I have a request in for ARF! Yay!
Finally caught your ad for Comic Relief last night, Chris 鈥. When do we get to see the out-takes?! Is anyone doing anything for CR?
Sammie - sounds like flutterby man is hitting the rights notes!
Lyndyloo - how was the benefit do?
Hazel Love - I LOVE calamari! How do you remember everyone, too? It鈥檚 so sweet!
Cheryl the Diva - well done! Will send up lots of prayers for you on Tuesday.
And - get well soon.
Steevie Fae Dundee + Glas - sorry 鈥 had to laugh!
J-not-J - hmmm 鈥. Perhaps a bottle a day every day is a little excessive!?
Kev - welcome!
Frances - huh? I鈥檓 told I鈥檓 quite curvy, thank you very much!
Nigel P - gonna miss The Fox!
Mariella - I say 4.05pm 鈥 and just duck when the snipers appear! I鈥檝e always liked the folk on Chris鈥檚 blog because they are pleasant, intelligent and respectful - but once in a while someone gets through the door who really seems to have got out of the wrong side of the bed!
Phil - enjoy the dinner!
Off to make the lunch for the wee lass and her pal 鈥 will try very hard to look sexy doing it!
Huggles, Susan, Highland lass
"In order to keep a true perspective of one鈥檚 importance, everyone should have a dog that will worship him and a cat that will ignore him."
- Dereke Bruce
For Moose:
鈥淭hree Rules of Work:
Out of clutter find simplicity;
From discord find harmony;
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.鈥
Albert Einstein
鈥淪implicity is making the journey of this life with just baggage enough.鈥
Charles Dudley Warner
For Em 26 -
Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
Ralph Waldo Emerson
For Em M - As long as we have hope, we have direction, the energy to move, and the map to move by. We have a hundred alternatives, a thousand paths and an infinity of dreams. Hopeful, we are halfway to where we want to go; hopeless, we are lost forever.
Hong Kong proverb
Afternoon all,
Not feeling full of the joys of spring today, 2 of the team are off with flu and I'm feeling decidely off colour myself. Can't be flu as I've had the jab but there are still all sorts of nasty bugs hanging about :o(
nice reading everyone's (almost) comments so far today, my money's on Chris blogging at 3.38. Not sure if I'll be able to check if I'm right as I'm leaving the office early today owing to a docs appointment but will check with anticipation when I return to my desk on Monday.
Have a good weekend all, and enjoy ARF tonight, will call in one day (when I'm not driving home at the crucial time)
TTFN
Tiggy xxx
Where's Tracey Ann these days?
Susan S #78
Absolutely true, dogs have owners, cats have servants!
Tiggy
Happy ARF one and all
MWa - good to see you again!
I'm going for 4.42pm for the appearance of today's blog.
jillygoat
Tiggy - hope you get on ok at the GP! There are different strains of flu bugger, and the buggers seem to be hanging around longer - IMHO because we haven鈥檛 had enough REALLY cold weather.
"A house without either a cat or a dog is the house of a scoundrel."
- Portuguese Proverb
If 15.37 hasn't gone, I'll have that, if it has then 16.02 please.
A friend of mine has advised an alternative way to eat a penguin. May I take this opportunity to recommend that the Macaroni is probably more suitable.
Thank you for organising the sweep M.W.a! Is there a prize? Other than being correct, and are you doing closest to, or right on the button.
...and what about sooty and soo?
Pottsie - 2.43pm
Tiggy - 3.38pm
Mariella - 3.48pm
Me - 4.05pm
Jillygoat - 4.42pm
What鈥檚 the odds? I think Chris should give the blogger closest a prize 鈥 like a day in the studio with him!
Huggles, Susan, Highland Lass
I am so sulking ... why why why has my 7.30ish post not appeared?
Gutted.
Distraught.
Beside myself.
CtD x
TFI its all request Friday!!
17 p for 3.46 xx
You trully are like a brilliant battery, long lasting ever ready and with a copper coloured top.
Oh, buggrit and hand shrimp!
I don't think I thought this out properly. So, the rules are
1/ Closest to the time.
2/ Odds are unlikely!
3/ Prize will either be provided by The Drive Time Team - if we are really lucky - or will be posted on my blog later today. (that'll get some hits to my site at least!)
4/ Anybody posting their guess after the next CE blog appears will be disqualified for being obvious.
5/ If there is a tie, then you have to share the prize.
I think that's fair enough!
MW, a!
Susan S - 4.29
AS x
Can't resist a compo
I say 3.15.
Hello All,
This is about the 79th time I've refreshed today and still no sign of our best beloved CLP. Just requested my ARF though.
Susan S - Hope the little lady feels better soon - had to collect my daughter from school today and we're off to the docs later too, looks like tonsilitis - ouch! Although not quite as spectacular as the chest AND water infection I managed to get - antibiotics upset my stomach and gave me thrush and then on top of all that - I got a cold sore... Should have just stayed in bed for a week, at least!!!
HL - love your blogs - so thoughtful and funny also - long may you continue.
Rachel - Oddly enough, i was thinking about you the other day - where have you been????
Lindyloo - you may be right - am seeing flutterby man tonight and am so excited that I can't eat!!! The flutterbies have filled up my tummy!!! (Although, as I ate out a total of 6 times last week, I wasn't surprised to find at the Tues night weigh in that I'd gained a pound...).
Right, am off to the docs with teenager from hell (stroppy, hormonal AND ill - but I do love her!), then picking up little man, then starting the preparations for tonight! Hope my ARF's played!!
Btw - feeling as though I'm moving forward - am changing my name next week - I will no longer be Mrs Gee, but instead will be Ms C... - can't wait!!!
Fab Friday all and if I don't blog again today -have a spectacular weekend!!!
S xx.
Jax - it's good to see you again - hope all's well with you at the moment? xxxx
jillygoat xx
Hi everyone
I'm going for 4:12pm
Enjoy ARF and have a great weekend!
Mary xx
Well now that's me off to catch me plane, and now I'm worried sick.
Who's kidnapped His Gorgeous Gingerness. Has he bin' sold to the white slave trade in Big Soft Southern Jessie Land?
Has he bin' headhunted by some dastardly satellite channel?
Has he bin' recruited by Al Qaeda?
Has he accidentally and prematurely donated his organs to medical science?
Has he got 'is toe stuck in the tap?
Has he let his battery run flat?
Has he rushed off to replace Jonny Wilkinson ahead of The Match at Croke Park?
Hello hello Christophe Lamb Pie. Is there anybody there? Knock twice for yes, once for no.
Ah now look. There's the milkman. Nearly made me jump out me skin.
A Bientot.
Clodagh.x
Hi all is 16.16 and still waiting!! my ickle refresh button is getting tired now - over worked today!! we are all hanging here waiting for todays words of wisdom from the main man chris!!! Will be tuning in tonite to see whats hapened to him! anyway have a great weekend all
Chicky xx
p.s life without dogs - I dont think so!!
Afternoon CLP & blogeroonies!
My head hurts.... still! It can't be Friday already surely?
Think I may go back to bed once I've listened to ARF. I think I may have a case of alscoholitis.
Luv
Lyndyloo
-x-x-x-
ps. good luck tonight Sammie have fun
Well, have I won? Have I, have I, eh, eh???
jillygoat x
Come on man whats happened, better be good you're on in 10......................
Peter
Reading your words made me smile. You sumed up everthing that is good about life. you have no worries about getting into that gang, Chris, you're already in it. To Life. Maay it be kind.
M
Good for you!! I used to be a nurse and used to ask the elderly patients what their secret was to keeping fit and looking young - and all of them without fail said to keep busy - both physically and mentally!! As for me - i have not been quite so fortunate with my health - I have cancer and have had secondaries for several years. There is no further treatment - so my attitude to life is eat well and to look after myself. To this end I travelled round the world a year ago and will continue to travel as long as I am able. I am 39 years old - and have packed alot into my life - and am determined to keep on packing stuff in!!! It may be a cliche - but you only have one life - make the most of it!! - Andrea
Sammie
Where've I been?
You know when sometimes you're out for a drive and you just go down a road for fun in your car and you know it's the wrong road straightaway but there's nowhere to turn around or to stop and there's a big truck right behind you. You wish you could press a button and be back on the right road but you just have to keep going.... well; that's kind of, where I've been but happy to say that my car is now safely on the driveway .... :) It's good to be back.......
Keep smiling
Rachel x
Hi
felt inspired to write after looking again at my new house...no a cottage in gorgeous countryside. after splitting up with my partner of 6 years decided to move to a little cottage in the country with llamas in the field at the back.
I have a feeling this will be the best thing I could do for my health, as don't forget how important ones mental health is too
Sx
Dear Chris,
i was searching the internet for a trace of my sister - Andrea Parker, she died on news years eve, aged 39, and found her comment on this blog, posted at a time when she knew that the cancer had finally won, yet there is nothing in her post, but optimism and joy, and that was how she lived her life to the very, very, end. We held hands as she slipped quietly and peacefully into death.
But if one thing can come out of her long and relentless disease, it is to raise awareness of the incredible role that hospices play in end of life care. Without the support and care of our local hopsice, Sue Ryder, St John's, Moggerhanger, Sandy, Befordshire, Andrea's last few months would have been unbearably painful and unfulfilled. She died, whole, complete and loved. Yet only 3% of deaths occur in hospices, the majority are in hospitals or nursing homes without adequate, physical, emotional and spiritual support, and often the person dies alone.
Why? because hospices rely on charity - St John's has to raise i million pounds a year just to remain open. Less that 50% of their funding comes from the NHS.
We are all going to die, it is a fact of living, and as many illnesses are now treatable leading to a chronic and slow demise, the need for hopsice care is only going to grow. End of life care is a specialism that involves a deep understanding of managing symptoms and pain, something an acute hospital setting cannot do.
If you can raise awareness through your show, then maybe that 3% figure will rise and other families like mine can benefit and help the ones they love to a good death.
My brother in law, 36, died in pain and fear last January in a large impersonal hospital after a short fight with cancer. The contrast of his last few weeks compared with my sister's is difficult to reconcile. I am now a life long fund raiser for hospices, but we need so many more. After all it could be any of us that need the care and love.
Juliet (Andrea's sister) or Juey and Pandy as we used to call each other.