It is 3 full months since I even saw this page on the computer. Life without the internet is hard work. But apart from that we are very, very happy in our new life in Beeston. It all seems to be working out grand.
The neighbours do their own thing and we do ours, mostly being away from home as our Father has still got a lot of work teaching the organ at the brand new very beautiful School of Music.
What a change for him - a warm room and all comforts on site.
You will be glad to know that gradually I am getting cupboard doors and other outstanding jobs in the house, but much more importantly, the music room upper part is being worked on now.
Also the garden. The aim is to have the green house up and running by March, so that we can start planting there-in. The front garden is totally set up. I even have a bird-bath to add to the bird-table and washing up takes for ever as I try not to move too quickly behind the window and disturb the birds. What joy!
Sunday mornings are amazing. Instead of being woken by the phone (So and so isn't able to come to service - got a cold, birthday party, granny visiting) we are woken by heavy footsteps on the stairs. Murphy has had enough of waiting patiently for his breakfast and a run.
So you now have a picture of our new life and how glad we are to be semi-retired.
Friday, November 30, 2007
Sunday, August 19, 2007
STILL MOVING
COUNTDOWN IS NOW ON. Today was Our Father's last Eucharist at the organ in Cathedral. Next weekend is the choir holiday in Kilkenny wuth the last Dean taking the service.- Magic.
Last Sunday lunch in house. All the beeston crowd plus bbil's mum came and then we did another fill of the trailer.
Big decision today. Get Skip On Wednesday.......
Thankfully new occupant of our house is not proud and will be glad of any furniture and appliances we don't need.
Most stuff has been assimilated in the new house. Music room is now full and Our Father plans to start the other half asap the dust has settled on the move.
Will be closing front door for the last time on Aug.31st.
Our Father and I feel positive about the move. Looking forward to living a less stressful life.
BTW. Right hand lawn is nearly weedfree and looking good. Original lawn is quite a mess and needs more attention.
Last Sunday lunch in house. All the beeston crowd plus bbil's mum came and then we did another fill of the trailer.
Big decision today. Get Skip On Wednesday.......
Thankfully new occupant of our house is not proud and will be glad of any furniture and appliances we don't need.
Most stuff has been assimilated in the new house. Music room is now full and Our Father plans to start the other half asap the dust has settled on the move.
Will be closing front door for the last time on Aug.31st.
Our Father and I feel positive about the move. Looking forward to living a less stressful life.
BTW. Right hand lawn is nearly weedfree and looking good. Original lawn is quite a mess and needs more attention.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
All Change
This weekend, the family has moved around the continent. Big Little sis has gone to Finland with No 2 and No 4. Hope they has a good time with TOCO, the Psycologist, the budding violinist and No 2. Already, there has been more discussion about saunas at Beeston.
Viking Long ship, plus 2 cats and companion, has gone to Sweden and cat show. See Norwegian wood for more...
Kid sister is no longer gone french. She returned home yesterday and is just the same. Her usual cheerful full of energy self. Our Father and I have got used to living alone and now we have to remember that she is here and can't lock the door for sure at night etc.
The walkway for the music barn is now under construction, but can't be completed until the railway is dismantled in the music room. This can't happen until the music exams have taken place next week, so its a waiting game.
Meanwhile the front garden at the East Wing is taking shape, but, very disappointingly more weeds than grass has grown on the lawn. I think VL's suggestion of turf was maybe a good one... Is this going to be another case of DIYA?
Just to report as a matter of great stupidity - The Cathedral had our Father's resignation letter, the end of Feb.. Ad has now gone into a couple of weekly papers. Deadline for entry, June 12th, Auditions week of June 26th. Takes your breath away! Apart form locals (present and ex assistants) who will have time to apply and come? TOCO told me to take no notice, but I just thought you'd be interested.
Viking Long ship, plus 2 cats and companion, has gone to Sweden and cat show. See Norwegian wood for more...
Kid sister is no longer gone french. She returned home yesterday and is just the same. Her usual cheerful full of energy self. Our Father and I have got used to living alone and now we have to remember that she is here and can't lock the door for sure at night etc.
The walkway for the music barn is now under construction, but can't be completed until the railway is dismantled in the music room. This can't happen until the music exams have taken place next week, so its a waiting game.
Meanwhile the front garden at the East Wing is taking shape, but, very disappointingly more weeds than grass has grown on the lawn. I think VL's suggestion of turf was maybe a good one... Is this going to be another case of DIYA?
Just to report as a matter of great stupidity - The Cathedral had our Father's resignation letter, the end of Feb.. Ad has now gone into a couple of weekly papers. Deadline for entry, June 12th, Auditions week of June 26th. Takes your breath away! Apart form locals (present and ex assistants) who will have time to apply and come? TOCO told me to take no notice, but I just thought you'd be interested.
Sunday, May 27, 2007
WILL HE GET BIG HEADED?
We have had a visit from London Son, right in the middle of term. It was an invitation from the old codger's choral society for a solo slot in their 'Summer Serenade' concert last night.
Our Father was persuaded to do end of year concert so that the choir didn't fizzle out. So we learnt a few part songs with great difficulty, mostly because we had a different choir each week.We also invited the chaiman's daughter to play her recorder solo to fill up the concert.
Any way, London Son (who incidentally is preparing for his final recital at Guildhall) came home on Wednesday and he and our Father looked at possible solos for the concert. The comment from Our Father after the practise was that he had been left behind. The comment from London Son was that Our Father is the only accompanist he has ever played with that can follow the solo line exactly whilst playing. So mutual admiration there.
At the concert, LS really shone. He was terrific. One is so proud of him. Can't begin to describe the variety of sounds and styles we were treated to. Like to think this will help him to give his final recital with greater confidence and polish. However, we won't tell him how good he was in case he gets a big head.
Next week kid sister will no longer be gone french. It will be strange to have her home.
As soon as the extra work load of CSM exams are over, Our Father will begin the balcony in the music shed. And then there is the GSP at the EW of BF when VL and MRS VL come at the end of June.
Our Father was persuaded to do end of year concert so that the choir didn't fizzle out. So we learnt a few part songs with great difficulty, mostly because we had a different choir each week.We also invited the chaiman's daughter to play her recorder solo to fill up the concert.
Any way, London Son (who incidentally is preparing for his final recital at Guildhall) came home on Wednesday and he and our Father looked at possible solos for the concert. The comment from Our Father after the practise was that he had been left behind. The comment from London Son was that Our Father is the only accompanist he has ever played with that can follow the solo line exactly whilst playing. So mutual admiration there.
At the concert, LS really shone. He was terrific. One is so proud of him. Can't begin to describe the variety of sounds and styles we were treated to. Like to think this will help him to give his final recital with greater confidence and polish. However, we won't tell him how good he was in case he gets a big head.
Next week kid sister will no longer be gone french. It will be strange to have her home.
As soon as the extra work load of CSM exams are over, Our Father will begin the balcony in the music shed. And then there is the GSP at the EW of BF when VL and MRS VL come at the end of June.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
IT FAILED!
The Rover didn't make it this afternoon sadly. The tester was very kind and said that it was very good for 15 years old and that we were very good because at 15 it had been re-cycled 3 times compared to people using up the earth's resources by buying new every two years. So I was comforted.
But we need a new roll bar, ball joints, cv boot, windscreen wiper, back brakes to match each other and when all is done, tracking, before the re-test.
Haven't told Paddy yet.....
Our Father has two really intense weeks of exams and then we can really start to make inroads into the gallery for the music room and the GSP (great shed plan). Its all very exciting.
But we need a new roll bar, ball joints, cv boot, windscreen wiper, back brakes to match each other and when all is done, tracking, before the re-test.
Haven't told Paddy yet.....
Our Father has two really intense weeks of exams and then we can really start to make inroads into the gallery for the music room and the GSP (great shed plan). Its all very exciting.
Friday, May 11, 2007
PROGRESS REPORT
Just thought I'd bring you up to date on the previous posting as some things have happened!
I) The gorgeous Gerry turned up without warning the same day bls and bbil were having their new kitchen installed. Panic ensued because he would be blocking the drive for them to get away. Thankfully it was dry enough for the kitchen van to go onto the field behind the house and exit at the end ogf the drive. So we've now got tarmac and they have a super-duper new kitchen.
2) On the electrical front they have the kitchen, but no electrics, and we have the external lights but no armoured cabling. Still waiting for the even more gorgeous Tony to come back - so no change there.
3) No sign of the not so gorgeous Barry for the chimney......
4) Yesterday was a red-letter day. After months of waiting Our Father, bbil, bls + no 4 and I went to meet the glamorous Kathryn and, wait for it, Our Father and I are now property owners again. Mind you, bbil and bls are still waiting for their money. There are yet more forms and information needed to conclude their side of the sale. What a business. (Thinking of moving to Finland where things are done in a sensible manner)
5) Have appointment with Paddy for car and keep your fingers crossed for next Wed's NCT.
6) Got new Windscreen, but that's another saga. Took car on Wed to Ballincollig and had to wait for 2 and half hours. Went into M.D. O'Sheas (big store with everything for DIY and home stuff). Looked at outside lights and then went browsing. Saw black leather sofa bed. Now some of you know that I have been hankering after a corner unit like the one in Eva's summer house and that our Father had other ideas (making something?). Any way I got this sofa bed made back into a sofa and thought it looked very neat and would probably be a better bet than other things being suggested. Called Our Father who arranged to come at midday to see it. (The shop were selling at €1000 instead of €1500 as it was a one off) Our Father liked it too, but discovered that there was a fault with one leg which he could repair. Shop reduced price to €900 plus brand new bedding they'd displayed with it, plus leather 4 in 1 cleaning stuff. We decided we needed to know it would fit into alcove and as bls was not at home to measure, we jumped into Moggie and did a quick run to Beeston. Measurements are fine. Back to shop, bought the sofa, plus outdoor lamp standards for garden (also reduced for us for some reason) and then as it was already about 1.30, Our Father rushed home to have lunch before choir practise and I went to collect Rover.
Imagine my horror when the mechanic told me he was unable to fit the new screen because that one had a big crack in it and I had waited for nothing! And our Father was out of reach for a spin and I was going to have to go through the waiting bit all over again.
Thankfully, yesterday we combined the car in Ballincollig with bls going in and out of solicitors and giving me lifts back and forward. So no more exciting finds in DIY shops!
Its taken me ages to write all this. I wonder if anyone has enough time to read it.
Good luck to TOCO and Mrs TOCO in their new home. Hope you are very happy there.
I) The gorgeous Gerry turned up without warning the same day bls and bbil were having their new kitchen installed. Panic ensued because he would be blocking the drive for them to get away. Thankfully it was dry enough for the kitchen van to go onto the field behind the house and exit at the end ogf the drive. So we've now got tarmac and they have a super-duper new kitchen.
2) On the electrical front they have the kitchen, but no electrics, and we have the external lights but no armoured cabling. Still waiting for the even more gorgeous Tony to come back - so no change there.
3) No sign of the not so gorgeous Barry for the chimney......
4) Yesterday was a red-letter day. After months of waiting Our Father, bbil, bls + no 4 and I went to meet the glamorous Kathryn and, wait for it, Our Father and I are now property owners again. Mind you, bbil and bls are still waiting for their money. There are yet more forms and information needed to conclude their side of the sale. What a business. (Thinking of moving to Finland where things are done in a sensible manner)
5) Have appointment with Paddy for car and keep your fingers crossed for next Wed's NCT.
6) Got new Windscreen, but that's another saga. Took car on Wed to Ballincollig and had to wait for 2 and half hours. Went into M.D. O'Sheas (big store with everything for DIY and home stuff). Looked at outside lights and then went browsing. Saw black leather sofa bed. Now some of you know that I have been hankering after a corner unit like the one in Eva's summer house and that our Father had other ideas (making something?). Any way I got this sofa bed made back into a sofa and thought it looked very neat and would probably be a better bet than other things being suggested. Called Our Father who arranged to come at midday to see it. (The shop were selling at €1000 instead of €1500 as it was a one off) Our Father liked it too, but discovered that there was a fault with one leg which he could repair. Shop reduced price to €900 plus brand new bedding they'd displayed with it, plus leather 4 in 1 cleaning stuff. We decided we needed to know it would fit into alcove and as bls was not at home to measure, we jumped into Moggie and did a quick run to Beeston. Measurements are fine. Back to shop, bought the sofa, plus outdoor lamp standards for garden (also reduced for us for some reason) and then as it was already about 1.30, Our Father rushed home to have lunch before choir practise and I went to collect Rover.
Imagine my horror when the mechanic told me he was unable to fit the new screen because that one had a big crack in it and I had waited for nothing! And our Father was out of reach for a spin and I was going to have to go through the waiting bit all over again.
Thankfully, yesterday we combined the car in Ballincollig with bls going in and out of solicitors and giving me lifts back and forward. So no more exciting finds in DIY shops!
Its taken me ages to write all this. I wonder if anyone has enough time to read it.
Good luck to TOCO and Mrs TOCO in their new home. Hope you are very happy there.
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Its a waiting game
I just needed to let you all know that we are STILL WAITING for
1) The gorgeous Gerry to lay the tarmac,
2) The even more gorgeous Tony to lay the armoured cable and associated external electrical bits
3) The not very gorgeous Barry to look at the chimney
4) The glamorous Kathryn to sort out the deeds for Bandon and change names so that Our Father and I can be property owners again
5) Mum of all to get hold of Paddy to fix the car mirror
6) Mum of all to find out if the car insurance will cover the cost of a new windscreen. Some so and so over took unnecessarily and send a stone straight at us. Bang it went and there is a star shaped chip in the screen. And the NCT comes up on May 15th.
I read with great interest all the other blogs and wish I too had something positive to report. Am very envious.
1) The gorgeous Gerry to lay the tarmac,
2) The even more gorgeous Tony to lay the armoured cable and associated external electrical bits
3) The not very gorgeous Barry to look at the chimney
4) The glamorous Kathryn to sort out the deeds for Bandon and change names so that Our Father and I can be property owners again
5) Mum of all to get hold of Paddy to fix the car mirror
6) Mum of all to find out if the car insurance will cover the cost of a new windscreen. Some so and so over took unnecessarily and send a stone straight at us. Bang it went and there is a star shaped chip in the screen. And the NCT comes up on May 15th.
I read with great interest all the other blogs and wish I too had something positive to report. Am very envious.
Sunday, April 15, 2007
JET SETTING AGAIN.
The International jet-setters have just returned from their latest adventure. Flew out of Cork with Aer Lingus on Wednesday and stopped over in Heathrow, finishing the journey by Iberian Airlines.
Destination, BARCELONA.
Whilst Cork was enjoying sunshine that split the stones, we woke each day to grey skies and
miserable rain from time to time. However it didn't dampen our thrill at seeing a most exciting city.
We went with Lismore Choir who treated us both. Stayed in a lovely 4 star hotel, had a guided coach/walking tour of the city, sang (and played the organ) in the old cathedral, went to Monserrat Abbey high in the mountains 30 miles away, and sang there, travelled down the mountain in a cable car, to be met by the coach at the bottom, marvelled at the architect Gaudi's work, so many years ahead of his time, used the Metro and trams, saw the Maritime Museum, had Tapas in a special meal for all the choir and so on and so forth.
Had an extra adventure on the way home. We got on the bus to take us across the airport to the waiting Aer Lingus plane. There were a number of planes lined up in rows and literally, the bus driver was turning the bus into each row and then coming out again, as he hadn't a clue where the plane was. We must have driven past about 30 planes, and reached the end of the airport. Turned round and finally the plane was spied, right at the back of a row.
Then on the way home the pilot said there was bad fog in Cork. (It was 11.p.m. by this time) and it was touch and go whether we would land. Thankfully he made it and we were safe on home soil. Then began the battle of the taxi. Got home at 12.30a.m. today.
Now its heads down..... and there won't be any more jet-setting for the time being.
Destination, BARCELONA.
Whilst Cork was enjoying sunshine that split the stones, we woke each day to grey skies and
miserable rain from time to time. However it didn't dampen our thrill at seeing a most exciting city.
We went with Lismore Choir who treated us both. Stayed in a lovely 4 star hotel, had a guided coach/walking tour of the city, sang (and played the organ) in the old cathedral, went to Monserrat Abbey high in the mountains 30 miles away, and sang there, travelled down the mountain in a cable car, to be met by the coach at the bottom, marvelled at the architect Gaudi's work, so many years ahead of his time, used the Metro and trams, saw the Maritime Museum, had Tapas in a special meal for all the choir and so on and so forth.
Had an extra adventure on the way home. We got on the bus to take us across the airport to the waiting Aer Lingus plane. There were a number of planes lined up in rows and literally, the bus driver was turning the bus into each row and then coming out again, as he hadn't a clue where the plane was. We must have driven past about 30 planes, and reached the end of the airport. Turned round and finally the plane was spied, right at the back of a row.
Then on the way home the pilot said there was bad fog in Cork. (It was 11.p.m. by this time) and it was touch and go whether we would land. Thankfully he made it and we were safe on home soil. Then began the battle of the taxi. Got home at 12.30a.m. today.
Now its heads down..... and there won't be any more jet-setting for the time being.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
THE NEW GARDEN
Things have suddenly started moving in the garden down west.
I was trying to weed the bank last Thursday and was idly wondering whether the gorgeous Gerry would be another six months coming back to put in the kerbing, when I heard vehicles coming down the boreen. Lo and Behold there he was, or at least his three henchmen, plus all the equipment for the kerbing. It took them just one hour to lay it.
They say they'll be back in about a week to put the tarmac in place. We shall see!
However, Our Father and I set to and have managed, between all the Easter ceremonies, to lay a crazy paving path from the kerbing to the front door. The best bit is that we used the old stones from the Bandon House which were flat on one side and attractive brown, orange and
stone colour in hue. We finished it today whilst looking after the four little pirates.
Big little sis is going to get some more top soil to fill in behind the kerbing and I can get the main front garden done. Its going to be magic. Just as I have dreamed of forever.
Meanwhile the chimney performance is going to take all profits from the sale of 93. Must try to get something out of the rogue builder.
Also, things are not particularly wonderful at the Cathedral. Our new Dean is as arrogant and self-centred as was told us from his previous parishioners, so we are so pleased the decision to retire has been made.
We're off galivanting again tomorrow. Its Barcelona this time with the Lismore choir and we get home late saturday. After that, apart from a quick trip to London on July 8th to sing the Dream, we have to keep our heads down and concentrate on moving.
I was trying to weed the bank last Thursday and was idly wondering whether the gorgeous Gerry would be another six months coming back to put in the kerbing, when I heard vehicles coming down the boreen. Lo and Behold there he was, or at least his three henchmen, plus all the equipment for the kerbing. It took them just one hour to lay it.
They say they'll be back in about a week to put the tarmac in place. We shall see!
However, Our Father and I set to and have managed, between all the Easter ceremonies, to lay a crazy paving path from the kerbing to the front door. The best bit is that we used the old stones from the Bandon House which were flat on one side and attractive brown, orange and
stone colour in hue. We finished it today whilst looking after the four little pirates.
Big little sis is going to get some more top soil to fill in behind the kerbing and I can get the main front garden done. Its going to be magic. Just as I have dreamed of forever.
Meanwhile the chimney performance is going to take all profits from the sale of 93. Must try to get something out of the rogue builder.
Also, things are not particularly wonderful at the Cathedral. Our new Dean is as arrogant and self-centred as was told us from his previous parishioners, so we are so pleased the decision to retire has been made.
We're off galivanting again tomorrow. Its Barcelona this time with the Lismore choir and we get home late saturday. After that, apart from a quick trip to London on July 8th to sing the Dream, we have to keep our heads down and concentrate on moving.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
IT'S GONE AT LAST
Yes, finally, after many ups and downs, we heard, whilst sitting in Dublin Airport last Friday, that No 93 is no longer ours. The relief is enormous. Hurrah!
However, we won't see any money till No 1 Parnell Place has changed hands.
However, we won't see any money till No 1 Parnell Place has changed hands.
Visit the kids, see the world
Our Father and Mum of all decided to visit kid sis in Strasbourg and chose last weekend, as being the only time we could get away at a weekend while she was there. She annonced that she was going to Zurich to meet up with London son on his travels with the EUYO.
So we arranged to fly to Zurich last Friday, meet up with Kid sis and her friend who came by train, and then give London Son a surprise on Sat afternoon when he arrived by coach from Germany. It was wonderful.
Zurich is a beautiful city and for me a first. Our Father went there in his early 20's when he was chasing women. So he sort of remembered it and was able to point out what to visit. Mostly churches I have to say! We stayed in the Old Town and were within walking distance of most things. But there is a superb network of trams for the longer journeys.
The Euyo played rather well in a fabulous concert hall, full of Baroque decoration and the 4th horn didn't do too badly, it has to be said. We spent the post concert time in London Son's Hotel and then all too quickly we had to say good bye.
Sunday evening we went to Strasbourg by train and on Monday enjoyed the sights, more churches,except that most are locked and not used as churches anymore. However, Father of all was delighted to see three genuine Silbermann organs and heard one being played. We also made use of their trams and went out to see the European Parliament and the other very imaginative buildings to do with Europe.
Monday evening was spent in kid sis's flat and we cooked for the inmates. Tuesday more sightseeing and also some DIY. Her flatmate's bed had been broken by some heftyish wench sitting on the edge and breaking off the rather feeble (it has to be said) piece of wood holding up the base. So Our Father bought screws and brackets and a driver and had it repaired in the twinkling of an eye!
Tuesday evening came all too quickly and we caught the bus to Baden where there is a smallish Ryanair airport. Flew to Stansted last night and stayed till 6 a.m. when the plane bought us back to Cork. Went straight to bed for about 3 hours and are coping fairly well with all the stuff that is inevitable on one's return.
So as I said its a case of visit the kids, see the world.
So we arranged to fly to Zurich last Friday, meet up with Kid sis and her friend who came by train, and then give London Son a surprise on Sat afternoon when he arrived by coach from Germany. It was wonderful.
Zurich is a beautiful city and for me a first. Our Father went there in his early 20's when he was chasing women. So he sort of remembered it and was able to point out what to visit. Mostly churches I have to say! We stayed in the Old Town and were within walking distance of most things. But there is a superb network of trams for the longer journeys.
The Euyo played rather well in a fabulous concert hall, full of Baroque decoration and the 4th horn didn't do too badly, it has to be said. We spent the post concert time in London Son's Hotel and then all too quickly we had to say good bye.
Sunday evening we went to Strasbourg by train and on Monday enjoyed the sights, more churches,except that most are locked and not used as churches anymore. However, Father of all was delighted to see three genuine Silbermann organs and heard one being played. We also made use of their trams and went out to see the European Parliament and the other very imaginative buildings to do with Europe.
Monday evening was spent in kid sis's flat and we cooked for the inmates. Tuesday more sightseeing and also some DIY. Her flatmate's bed had been broken by some heftyish wench sitting on the edge and breaking off the rather feeble (it has to be said) piece of wood holding up the base. So Our Father bought screws and brackets and a driver and had it repaired in the twinkling of an eye!
Tuesday evening came all too quickly and we caught the bus to Baden where there is a smallish Ryanair airport. Flew to Stansted last night and stayed till 6 a.m. when the plane bought us back to Cork. Went straight to bed for about 3 hours and are coping fairly well with all the stuff that is inevitable on one's return.
So as I said its a case of visit the kids, see the world.
Friday, March 23, 2007
Update on the crazy life of our parents!
I'm taking time out of preparing for Judas Maccabaeus, cleaning the house for Sunday's Ministry of Welcome party and generally coping to let you know where we are now.
It was too optimistic to assume we would complete on March 15th.. House is still ours and more annoyingly, the mortgage is due to be paid on Monday and there's no money in the bank.....
Solicitor is trying to get deeds corrected following the road being taken over by local authority after we bought house. So watch this space!!!
Judas Maccabaeus has caused us a few headaches and early mornings lying awake worrying. Biggest headache has been a lack of decent oboe players. The usual orchestra have a weekend in Galway and we've got gloriously able students playing, but our 1st oboe fell and broke her tooth on Tuesday and the 2nd oboe decided last week he wasn't available after all. Hey ho..
We have two flutes playing instead and recorders playing the flute parts. Very alternative.
Its tomorrow night in the North Cathedral, and I am, as usual, just hoping we'll get an audience.
Meanwhile, the georgeous Gerry finally turned up (without warning) on Wed. morning. BBIL was taking D & A to the bus and met a huge lorry pushing a loaded low loader backwards along the boreen. Needless to say they were late for the bus. Big little sis rang and said I should get there asap as Gerry needed to know exactly what to do. By 3p.m. same day he re-loaded the lorry and set off into the sunset taking all our rubble and leaving the Flanders trenches looking more like a garden suitable for a retired couple to get their teeth into. Its very exciting. He'll hopefully be back shortly to lay the kerbs and then when that is set lay tarmac right up to the boundary gate. I'll be able to set grass seed and start planting my shrubs and plants.
Bad news on the chimney front. Cecil's effort will have to be rebuilt at great expense. And big little sis thinks we should replace the stove. Its destroyed by rust. Don't fancy taking Cecil on but feel very fed up at the trouble we've got.
Its very exciting to be planning visits from various members of the family and hearing all the news. I'm so enjoying the blogs. Keep writing!
It was too optimistic to assume we would complete on March 15th.. House is still ours and more annoyingly, the mortgage is due to be paid on Monday and there's no money in the bank.....
Solicitor is trying to get deeds corrected following the road being taken over by local authority after we bought house. So watch this space!!!
Judas Maccabaeus has caused us a few headaches and early mornings lying awake worrying. Biggest headache has been a lack of decent oboe players. The usual orchestra have a weekend in Galway and we've got gloriously able students playing, but our 1st oboe fell and broke her tooth on Tuesday and the 2nd oboe decided last week he wasn't available after all. Hey ho..
We have two flutes playing instead and recorders playing the flute parts. Very alternative.
Its tomorrow night in the North Cathedral, and I am, as usual, just hoping we'll get an audience.
Meanwhile, the georgeous Gerry finally turned up (without warning) on Wed. morning. BBIL was taking D & A to the bus and met a huge lorry pushing a loaded low loader backwards along the boreen. Needless to say they were late for the bus. Big little sis rang and said I should get there asap as Gerry needed to know exactly what to do. By 3p.m. same day he re-loaded the lorry and set off into the sunset taking all our rubble and leaving the Flanders trenches looking more like a garden suitable for a retired couple to get their teeth into. Its very exciting. He'll hopefully be back shortly to lay the kerbs and then when that is set lay tarmac right up to the boundary gate. I'll be able to set grass seed and start planting my shrubs and plants.
Bad news on the chimney front. Cecil's effort will have to be rebuilt at great expense. And big little sis thinks we should replace the stove. Its destroyed by rust. Don't fancy taking Cecil on but feel very fed up at the trouble we've got.
Its very exciting to be planning visits from various members of the family and hearing all the news. I'm so enjoying the blogs. Keep writing!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Best wishes to the travellers.
London Son is off with the EUYO. Our Parents wish him all the very best during the tour, which looks to be very exciting. See euyo.org.uk for details.
Kid sis has just completed her first week and is settling in and getting to parle le francais tres bien! We await more details when she can get to the internet.
Our parents are just about getting used to the house being child free. On my return, Murphy is still the same side of the door, food stays in the fridge and we can bolt the door at bed-time without worrying who is still out. Its so strange.
Today, thanks to the great energy and enthusiasm of bbil and big little sis we have emptied Franfield of all its contents and have shut the front door for the last time. All things being equal it will be sold on Thursday. If not the new owners have to pay a penalty for each day over.
The new Dean was installed on Sunday. The service went well and lots of people commented on the music. BUT... our new Dean thanked everyone from the Archbish, who preached, to his cats, and completely left out the choir and organists. It makes one very glad to be off.
Meanwhile there should have been a Rural Dean's inspection on Thursday. Now we've been told that they will wait and bring in the Diocesan Architect during the vacancy. I've e-mailed the Rural Dean and told him the reason Our Father gave 6 months notice was so that there wouldn't be a vacancy!
Am finding it very hard to know what to say to people who are guenuinely sad that Our ~Father is going. We have been told lots of lovely things and whilst mostly they say its good for us, they think the Cathedral will never be the same. Our Father has been, along with the late Jim Swanton, the unifying force through all the changes of Clergy. Meanwhile, RBW was told in no uncertain terms that Our Father will not be helping him out with his music problems at Moviddy.
Time now to get back to the house work..... ABRSM exams start tomorrow.
London Son is off with the EUYO. Our Parents wish him all the very best during the tour, which looks to be very exciting. See euyo.org.uk for details.
Kid sis has just completed her first week and is settling in and getting to parle le francais tres bien! We await more details when she can get to the internet.
Our parents are just about getting used to the house being child free. On my return, Murphy is still the same side of the door, food stays in the fridge and we can bolt the door at bed-time without worrying who is still out. Its so strange.
Today, thanks to the great energy and enthusiasm of bbil and big little sis we have emptied Franfield of all its contents and have shut the front door for the last time. All things being equal it will be sold on Thursday. If not the new owners have to pay a penalty for each day over.
The new Dean was installed on Sunday. The service went well and lots of people commented on the music. BUT... our new Dean thanked everyone from the Archbish, who preached, to his cats, and completely left out the choir and organists. It makes one very glad to be off.
Meanwhile there should have been a Rural Dean's inspection on Thursday. Now we've been told that they will wait and bring in the Diocesan Architect during the vacancy. I've e-mailed the Rural Dean and told him the reason Our Father gave 6 months notice was so that there wouldn't be a vacancy!
Am finding it very hard to know what to say to people who are guenuinely sad that Our ~Father is going. We have been told lots of lovely things and whilst mostly they say its good for us, they think the Cathedral will never be the same. Our Father has been, along with the late Jim Swanton, the unifying force through all the changes of Clergy. Meanwhile, RBW was told in no uncertain terms that Our Father will not be helping him out with his music problems at Moviddy.
Time now to get back to the house work..... ABRSM exams start tomorrow.
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Kid Sis going french soon
Your (Our) Parents want to wish Kid Sis all the very best in France. It should be a great adventure and I gathered today from her tutor, Nuala, one that she has earned by being one of the best students in the year. She mustn't get a big head, but I was told she is a very special girl, and that we can be very proud of her.
Your (Our) Parents will be rattling around in the auld home and will be totally alone after 34 years of family living with us. Boo Hoo!
I would just also like to say that Your (Our) Parents have five very special children each one of whom has made us very proud and now it is carrying on to the next generation. (See the latest posting from Life in a etc.)
Your (Our) Parents will be rattling around in the auld home and will be totally alone after 34 years of family living with us. Boo Hoo!
I would just also like to say that Your (Our) Parents have five very special children each one of whom has made us very proud and now it is carrying on to the next generation. (See the latest posting from Life in a etc.)
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Things are happening in Cork
At last I know how to open this page and add to our blog. Congratulations to me!
So, just in case anyone is interested, two major things have happened since we started this blogspot.
Firstly, Our Father sent in his resignation to the new Dean. We are now gradually telling our friends and colleagues. There has been no clerical reaction yet.
Secondly, today, at last we have been informed that our buyers have signed the contract to buy our house in Frankfield. This is the point of no return. We will be collecting the money sometime after March 15th. The plan is to purchase the dear little house in Bandon, as decided last August and continue to let it. So we are back on track financially at last.
Meanwhile the Music Barn/ Murphy Room, whatever, is coming on. The electrics are nearly completed and Our Father has built a new box in the new part to re-house Murphy and the other organ bits so that he can use the other old part as a workroom and store. Its all coming on. All we need now is for the gorgeous Gerry to come and sort out the flanders trenches that make up our garden at present. He's supposed to come this week.
Do hope you can get to see this. I think its not possible to publish comments. Can some one else sort this out for me. The e-mail address is our usual one and so is the password. Our surname minus S but plus C. Thanks in anticipation
So, just in case anyone is interested, two major things have happened since we started this blogspot.
Firstly, Our Father sent in his resignation to the new Dean. We are now gradually telling our friends and colleagues. There has been no clerical reaction yet.
Secondly, today, at last we have been informed that our buyers have signed the contract to buy our house in Frankfield. This is the point of no return. We will be collecting the money sometime after March 15th. The plan is to purchase the dear little house in Bandon, as decided last August and continue to let it. So we are back on track financially at last.
Meanwhile the Music Barn/ Murphy Room, whatever, is coming on. The electrics are nearly completed and Our Father has built a new box in the new part to re-house Murphy and the other organ bits so that he can use the other old part as a workroom and store. Its all coming on. All we need now is for the gorgeous Gerry to come and sort out the flanders trenches that make up our garden at present. He's supposed to come this week.
Do hope you can get to see this. I think its not possible to publish comments. Can some one else sort this out for me. The e-mail address is our usual one and so is the password. Our surname minus S but plus C. Thanks in anticipation
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Trying to keep up the trend
I'm supposed to be cooking tea, but kid sis decided that it was time Our Father and Mum of all had their own blogspot, so she just organised us. Now we can post all our bits and pieces straight away instead of adding comments to all of yours. Definitely we will not get any house work done in Dean Street...........
Will keep you posted about retirement plans, house sales, etc....
Tea is now a bit overdone so will close this for now.
Will keep you posted about retirement plans, house sales, etc....
Tea is now a bit overdone so will close this for now.
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