Winter Crick 2015 16 8

Monday 14^th March to Saturday 26^th March

 Monday 14^th March

 Surprisingly for us we found the cottage without losing our way or missing a turning. First impressions, a great little place to stay, with easy access to Rutland Water. Economy 7 electricity does not keep the cottage as warm as we would like, but then we do have a solid fuel burner on the boat and diesel powered radiators, so we’re not used to a cooler atmosphere. Which is why we’ll be taking a drive into Oakham so that I can buy a warm cardigan.

 We were far too early for the cottage; although it was already open when we arrived at half eleven; so we stopped off at a car park and had a stroll around, eventually finding a café that was open. We ordered a coffee and slice of carrot cake, which came to £13.00p. Yes, folks, you read that right, £13.00p for coffee and slice of cake each. Now that is taking the wee, wee!!

 Still, we’re only here for three days and the nearby hotel boasts of being dog friendly. So, if we’re caught in bad weather, we can always dine there.

 Tuesday 15^th March

 This is a lovely little cottage and, along with a second one of similar proportions, has a short, private drive down to it. Also, and apart from the lack of warmth for this time of year, we didn’t have any hot water for washing up or washing ourselves. So, when it came to dirty dishes after dinner, we had to boil the kettle up. Then, just after I had done the washing up, my phone rang and, who should it be but Rebecca, the owner of the cottages. She’d phoned me instead of the person she should have phone and I told her about the lack of hot water. Apparently this is an ongoing problem, but it was soon solved by switching on the immersion heater.

 As it happens, as I mentioned earlier, we drove into Oakham; instead of walking to the nearest village; where I found a really comfortable, warm’ zip-up cardigan and Wifey popped into the local Tesco for a few odds and ends.

 This morning we’ll probably take a walk to the aforementioned village, just for the sake of doing so and to enjoy some more of the stunning views around the area.

Wednesday 16^th March

 Yesterday morning was pretty cold in the cottage, despite the radiators and, although we went out with the intention of taking a long walk by the water, we took a trip into Oakham and bought a fan heater instead. We then went straight back to the cottage and switched it on. It seems a pity that we had to resort to such a move, but I’m afraid it was absolutely necessary in this instance. Perhaps we’ve been spoilt with our solid fuel burner and 3 radiators on the boat. We’ll probably leave a note for Rebecca before we leave.

 Also yesterday morning, I found I was unable to log on to the Internet. Initially I thought it was because the WiFi had switched itself off, but this wasn’t the case. It was simply because I had connected the WiFi unit to the mains, rather than directly to the laptop. As a result of this the WiFi then wanted my security details, which I couldn’t enter, simply because I hadn’t brought the card with me. The problem was soon solved by connecting to the laptop via an extension lead which, luckily, I had brought with me.

 This morning, however, I have been unable to download my messages using Outlook, and it’s not because the WiFi is off. So, rather than waste time fiddling, I accessed my Absolute account online. Strange that I can access the Internet, but not Outlook. Hmmm!

 Thursday 17^th March

 Well, we’ll be on our way back to Crick this morning, having spent a very pleasant three days by the side of Rutland Water.

 Yesterday we simply chilled out, having first walked along to Edith Weston; the nearest village; for the Mail. After which we did nothing in particular, except take Alex out for a couple of longish walks. The cottage has been pretty comfortable since we included a fan heater.

 So, what next for our future moorings? Well, I have drafted a letter to Tim Langer, voicing our concerns and have toned it down somewhat in order not to offend. I’m pretty good in that regard.

 As we see it, we have two choices. We pay the man his new fees throughout the year – not likely. Or we simply look at alternative marinas for next winter. The third option would be to hope we can return here, but we’re not sure that that’s a good idea, as we’ll be leaving under a cloud. We’ll just have to see.

Friday 18^th March

 Returning to the rise in mooring fees at Crick Marina. Sheila and I are quite puzzled as to why we received that letter. After all, we normally only winter over, wherever it may be, and then get out for more cruising by the beginning of April. The fact that we paid for the whole of 2015, was simply to guarantee a mooring spot for this winter. Had we not done so I would have missed several hospital appointments and diabetes checks. So it was essential that we come back here. Now, as far as the hospital is concerned, I no longer need to return at six monthly intervals, so I can just as easily make an appointment at another hospital. My diabetes checks can also be carried out locally, wherever we may be.

 Saturday 20^th March

 Well, after a heated discussion about our commitment to this marina, i.e., the payment of a termination fee, we have decided to pay up and use the additional time here working on the boat. Nuff said!!

 Today is the long-awaited Kennett family bash, which starts at midday, for a sit down meal at 1.0 pm. As far as we are aware we’ll be at The fox at Matching, but nobody has confirmed this. Won’t it be a surprise when we turn up, only to find nobody there? Nah! Carole would have told us of a different venue – wouldn’t she??

 Alex, as usual, will stay with his bestest pal, Tommy and his owner, Peter, for the day. Peter is the one person that Alex took to as soon as they met. He was very wary of other men, but took to Peter as if he’s known him all his life. Tommy is also a Jack Russell, although much smaller than Alex. And he has a tail and a full set of kit, if you know what I mean.

 Monday 21^st March

 The Kennett family bash went well yesterday, although there were far fewer attendees this time. Still, the food was good and the conversation brought quite a few laughs, especially from Michael, Sheila’s brother. Next year we’re hoping to change the seating arrangements. Thus far we’ve been separated into two distinct groups but, if we can join tables together next time, we can all natter across the table and generate more noise. Lovely!

 So, everything is back to normal, with shopping our first priority today. Alex was very pleased to see us again, although he does enjoy his stay with Peter and Tommy.

 We’ve now decided to stay here until the end of June, so that we can carry out more work on the boat; mostly painting, but there’s also the top-box to put together. Of course this means paying the increased fees for that quarter, but saves us carrying out the paintwork out there on the cut. In order to do so when cruising, it’s necessary to have a spell of dry weather, It’s also important to find a mooring spot that’s near a turning point, or winding hole, as it’s known in the trade, so that the boat can be turned around as and when necessary.

 Tuesday 22^nd March

 Yesterday was just another one of those non-days, in that, apart from a bit of shopping at Sainsbury’s, we did nothing of any account. Although, the following might give you a chuckle.

 Yesterday evening, at about seven of the clock, Wifey took Alex for his evening stroll, as is her wont. Between our marina and the next; there are three altogether here at Crick; there’s an alternative office, which sports a WiFi aerial. This log cabin sits on a small hillock, along with a few trees. On passing the office Wifey spotted a notice and, being the Nosy Parker that she is, went to investigate.

 Now, bearing in mind that the hillock upon which this office sits is only a few square yards in area, she was most surprised to find the words, ‘This area is a wildlife preserve and dogs must not be allowed on it’. Had it stated that some owners were allowing their dogs to use the area as a toilet, we wouldn’t have thought if very funny. But, what do we know, we’re only a couple of unwanted boaters?

 Friday 25^th March (Good Friday)

 I received a return email from RBOA this morning, having asked for their comments regarding the new structure here at Crick. Their comments were as I expected and I was reminded that the owner of Crick Marina can do as he pleases where fees are concerned. Well, I had already stated that obvious fact in my email to the owner, so we feel that the situation is what it is, and we’ll vote with our feet, or boat in this case. It’s a real shame though, as we quite like Crick and the surrounding area. Unfortunately, Noel’s offer of seven months’ moorings at the end of this year, with payment up front, is not something we can contemplate at this time. We’ve had the expense of the boat blacking and the enforced three-day break whilst that was being done, so we’re hardly in a position to find such a sum right now. We also had the additional expense of having our engine serviced.

 Ah well, that’s life, etc, etc.

 I’m due for a kidney scan on 2^nd April, a Saturday, would you believe? So, we now have to go out and find me a decent housecoat. This is to preserve my modesty when walking across the waiting room in one of those soppy gowns. Those ridiculous thingies’ that tie up at the back and show your bum. We’ll probably pop over to Sainsbury’s for that little item.

 Hopefully, this Bank Holiday won’t be the total washout that the forecasters would have us believe.

 Saturday 26^th March

 Didn’t bother with Sainsbury’s yesterday as we’ll be going there on Tuesday, so I can get my housecoat then, if they have one.

 Yesterday was great weather-wise. We took a walk over to the office and paid our ‘dues’, so we’re officially here until the end of June. Of course, we won’t spend all the intervening weeks here, but will g out for a week or two here and there.  This morning we’ll be putting our postal forwarding address in to the Post Office.

 We have yet to receive replies from the two marinas we emailed about winter moorings for this coming November, but it’s early days yet. As soon as we know, you too will know.

 

So, with no further ado, I'll post this blog.

 

Have a great Bank Holiday

 

Dave, Sheila and Alex

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Crick 2015 16 7

Friday February 26^th to Monday 14^th March

Saturday 27^th February

 Yesterday seemed to be one of those days when we’re constantly on the go. At first we intended to catch the 09.40 bus to Rugby, but due to circumstances beyond my control, we took the one an hour later.

 Rugby itself was OK, but what with it being a Friday and very busy, we had no hope of catching the next bus bac, so we ended up at our usual coffee shop and the wandered around the charity shops, where we bought four books.

 Upon our return to Crick marina; on a packed and very warm bus; Alex needed to go out, which fell to me whilst Wifey made the tea. After which I emptied the decking from the car so that we could get some coal. We then had to take a walk up to the Co-op for some eggs for dinner; which we had already highlighted as scrambled eggs, bacon and mushrooms, as part of our 800 calories a day diet.

 During all this kerfuffle, I fell to talking to another couple of boaters, following on from which we dipped the fuel tank and then walked around to the garden centre for those eggs; which we didn’t get from the Co-op after all, because they were too small.

 Eventually we settled down and watched TV for a couple of hours and then had dinner, followed by more TV, which included Wilhelmina, the film with Judie Dench. We also have the book of the same name. All in all, a pretty hectic day, well, for us anyway.

 Today I have some printing to do and then a copy of Wendy’s family cartoon portrait.

 Tuesday 1^st March

 I had an appointment with the NHS Optician yesterday, to assess the state of my cataract and, after a thorough examination and questions as to whether I have any problems with my eyesight, it was decided that no action needs to be taken at this time. Goody, goody!

 Saturday 5^th March

So far everything seems to be going well with the 8-week diet. We’re taking at least one long walk a day, sometimes two, although I don’t feel as if I’ve lost weight this week. I’ll know for sure on Monday morning, which is when we usually weigh ourselves.

 I’m now in the process of building our new top-box, having drilled all the necessary holes in the base. Wifey will be taking the bus into Northampton on Tuesday, so I’ll probably do some more while she’s out of the way.

 Sunday 6^th March

 I have finally finished Wendy’s Cartoon Portrait, but (sorry Bruv), I only used short shadows. I tried several variations of longer shadows, but they just didn’t seem to fit with a cartoon.

 Tomorrow morning will tell me if I’ve lost any more weight, because, despite Dr Mosley’s assertion that we should weigh ourselves more often, we’re of the opinion that, if we find we’re not going down, it’s more likely to disappoint us and, just maybe, put us off the diet. I’m hoping to have cracked the 14 stone mark.

 Today we’ll be visiting the club as usual, but it’s had a bit of a makeover this past week, with new pumps, furniture and bar, so it should look pretty good.

 Monday 7^th March

 This morning has to be the coldest this year; very thick frost out there. Hopefully it won’t be like this next week, when we take our three-day break while Shiralee’s hull is being blacked. We’ll be spending those three days in a small cottage by the side of Rutland Water and are hoping for some interesting walks.

 Today we’ll be driving over to Sainsbury’s for our weekly shop. Unlike most men I rather enjoy our shopping trips. Perhaps that’s because Wifey doesn’t dither and we don’t always shop at the same place. We sometimes use Asda in Rugby and we sometimes shop in Daventry.

 I weighed myself this morning and found I had lost another 2 lb. I am now at 14 stone 3 lb, which means I have now cracked the 200lb mark.

 Next Monday our boat goes in for hull blacking; a necessary evil every two to three years; and, since paint is far cheaper than rust, needs must when the Devil drives. So, since we aren’t able to stay on the boat whilst it’s in dry dock, we’ll be renting a cottage right on the edge of Rutland Water. Unfortunately, we can’t arrive before 3 pm, so we’ll have to poodle around the Water for a while, or visit Oakham. There are a few cafes scattered around the Water, so we’ll be able to break our daily walks. There’s also a pub about a mile away and so, if they allow dogs in; which most pubs in this neck of the woods do; we could enjoy a lunchtime break. We’re both quite looking forward to the break.

 Tuesday 8^th March

 So, there was I at about 06.00 yesterday morning, girding my loins all ready to get stuck in to a new Cartoon Portrait, when the programme took it upon itself to stop working. It seemed to get through part of the setup, but stalled at finding the fonts. So, having checked that all the fonts were where they should be, I then, with great hesitation, pressed ahead and installed the programme again. At first this didn’t do much, so I tried again, and again, and finally the programme loaded. Just to be sure, I then ran a scan for bugs, but none showed up.

 Sheila is taking the bus into Northampton this morning; probably to browse clothing and such; while I soldier on with building our new Top-Box, which is now showing signs of wear after almost 10 years sitting on top of the boat in all kinds of weather.

 I bought the timber when I last went down to see Alan and, after having it all cut to length by the nice man at Wicke’s, brought it all home, along with some thick, exterior ply that Alan supplied. With Alex watching over me I’m pretty sure I won’t make any boo-boos.

 Wednesday 9^th March

 Wifey came to me after her morning wash and brush up, to show me, what she called, a wonky face. It seems she has an abscess under a tooth. So, no bus trip to Northampton and she had to visit the quack for anti-biotics. That trip will now take place on Thursday as she’s having her Barnet cut today.

 This was good for me, because she was then able to help me partly assemble the new Top-Box. We’ll finish assembling it before we go off cruising. The old one will be broken up for firewood. Well, it is nearly ten years old and rather flimsy now.

 This morning has started with heavy rain, something Alex doesn’t think much of when I take him for his morning pee. But, needs must when the Devil drives. I don’t much like it either, but…….

 Saturday 12^th March

 Apart from a trip into town and having more work done on the car, not a lot has happened since Wednesday. Except that we won’t be coming back to Crick this coming winter.

 We received a letter from the owner of this marina Mr M. T. Langer, in which he states, “We are writing to you, as a Crick Marina moorer whom we believe uses their narrowboat as a residence on at least a part-time basis.” All of which is true, of course. However, he also states that Crick Marina Ltd provides moorings primarily for leisure moorers, i.e., those who do not live on board, but leave their boats here when not in use.

 This is, of course, a load of nonsense, because they have quite a lot of boats here whose owners do live on their boats, but pay a premium for the privilege of doing so. The only reason we can think of that has prompted him to do this, is greed, pure and simple. In order for us to continue mooring here he has increased our fees by 15%, leaving us with an extra £400 per year to pay.

 We wintered over here for the first time during the winter of 2014/15 and those five months cost us £912.66. Since then the fees have increased a couple of times. But using that period as an example, we would now be looking at £1049.60.

 The only reason we agreed to pay throughout the whole year; rather than just the winter period; was so that we could guarantee a mooring when we came back. This has cost us dear, but we really didn’t want to find another marina every winter, which means registering with a different doctor, to say the least.

 So, since this prize greedy-guts insists upon this extra 15%, we’ll be finding somewhere new next winter.

 Later…

 I mentioned the above to a fellow boater this morning, but he hadn’t received his letter yet. He did say though, that if the fees are going up by 15%, he would also leave. Later in the day we saw him with two other boaters holding, what looked like an envelope.

 Methinks Mr Langer has shot himself in the foot.

 Monday 14^th March

 This situation regarding the rise in fees quite interesting. We’ve spoken to more boaters about this and, without a doubt many of them will leave. You see, most boaters, whether they live on board or not, do like to spend quite a lot of time cruising. Not everybody goes off for seven months, like we do. However, when we do leave the marina, for whatever length of time, we are required to leave our car keys, so that, should an emergency arise while we’re away, our cars can be moved. And, where the Crick Boat Show is concerned, our cars must be left in the big car park, so they can be moved to make way for the people arranging the show rents and such can park their cars.

 So, why all that info? Well, while we are away enjoying the scenery, our mooring bays can be used for other boaters wishing to spend a day or two here, in the safety of a marina. This means that, while we’re away Mr Langer is earning even more money from our vacant pontoons. All marinas do this, but it still rankles that we’re paying for him to make more money.

 Anyway, whatever the case, we’ll be leaving sometime in April, never to return.

 Incidentally, the boater I spoke to earlier has already given in his notice to leave. And he’s just the tip of the iceberg. Like I said, nobody likes being held to ransom.

 Now, on a much lighter note, we’ll be able to get into our cottage by noon today, so we have no need to wander around Oakham with Alex in tow. This is great news, because it will give us the afternoon in which to wander around the Water instead.

 And that, as they say, is that. Let’s get on with posting this blog.

 Have a good week folks.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

Winter Crick 2015 16 6

Friday 12^th February to Friday February 26th

 Saturday 13^th February

 I received an email from Northampton General Hospital regarding my next check-up. It suggested that I was already aware of an appointment for 24^th of this month, which I most certainly wasn’t. It also suggested a follow up appointment with the surgeon for the 9^th of March. I’ve asked for the time of that first appointment, which I expect by return email pretty soon.

 I am in the process of creating a family Cartoon Portrait for Wendy, Sarah’s sister, who also works at the local club. This is taking considerable longer that the one I did for Sarah, simply because I’m fitting in herself, partner and two kids. Not only that, she’s suggested a scene on a beach. So I’ve had to find a decent sized beach scene in which to fit them all. Good fun, but not leaving me much time for anything else first thing in the morning, which is when I do most of my cartoon stuff.

 Monday 15^th February

 Today in an effort to rid myself of diabetes; yes, indeed, a tall order; I start my 8-week low calorie diet. Now although I’ve bought the book by Dr Michael Mosley, I’m not using his recipes which, quite frankly, suck! Instead we’re using the two Hairy Dieters books and will use the recipes in those, but always sticking to the 800 calories per day. 

 Tuesday 16^th February

 At last I have finished all the cartoon features for Wendy’s Cartoon Portrait. Now, all I have to do is fit them all into a template, along with figures and faces.

 In the past I have only created these portraits for individuals, so it should be interesting to see how a family one turns out. When it’s done I’ll post it on this blog, but I’m still a few days away from that yet.

 Yesterday’s first day of dieting went very well and we stayed within our 800 calories, apart from the last of our hot cross buns, that went with our late cuppa. From today it will be just a couple of biscuits instead of cake.

 Wednesday 17^th February

 It’s day three of our diet and all is going well so far. We’re also taking more walks, which should help things along. Breakfast today will consist of giant crumpets with dry fried fruit and plain yoghurt with honey drizzled on top.

 Just for a change I’ll be popping down to Harlow this Saturday. While I’m there I’ll be paying a visit to B&Q or Wickes for some decking, which I’ll get Alan to cut up in the right lengths to make a new top-box. I’m afraid our current one; which is about nine years old now; is showing signs of age.

 Monday 22^nd February

 I took a trip down to Harlow on Saturday, where Alan and I paid a visit to Wick’s for some timber. We bought four lengths of decking, which we had them cut to lengths, along with a length of beading for the corner posts of the top box. This was cut to lengths on Alan’s circular saw. For the base of the box Alan used some exterior ply, which he also cut for me.

 Later in the afternoon we called in at the White Admiral and had a good old chinwag. All in all a very pleasant day but, what really rounded the day off well was the new wristwatch Alan had bought for me. Thanks Bruv, much appreciated.

 Wednesday 24^th February

 The weekend went well and, despite the drink on Saturday evening and Sunday lunchtime, I had lost 4lb by Monday morning.

 This morning I’m off to Northampton General Hospital for a check up on my bladder. This will be followed by a chat with the specialist on 9^th March.

 Thursday 25^th February

 My appointment at Northampton General Hospital was for 09.30 yesterday morning. We were advised that they were running about 40 minutes late and I was eventually admitted at 10.20, so not bad for a stretched NHS.

 Having laid me out on a bench the surgeon then proceeded to question me about two missed appointments, which I strongly denied, advising him that I could hardly be at fault when the appointment was for June of last year and we were already out cruising. I also pointed out that I had been telephoned three times about the one appointment and that the person at the other end of the line was simply not following through.

 Now, having checked my bladder and finding it clear of problems, the surgeon then though I should return in three months for further checks. I had to point out that we would then be obliged to sit in Crick Marina for the best part of the Summer. However, since my bladder was clear of problems, and had been so for over a year, he decided that perhaps an annual check would be OK. Hallelujah!!

 My eight-week diet is going well and I can feel the loss of weight now. On Monday morning I weighed in at 14 stone 5lb. which is a loss of 4lb in the first week. It’s not hard going either and I can see no reason at all for not continuing for the whole eight weeks. Which means that I’ll be done by the time we leave for our annual cruise.

 On Tuesday evening we drove over to Daventry to have my annual Retinal Screening, at which time I asked what I should do about my cataract removal. I was told that I should follow up the Boot’s Optician recommendation and make a booking. This I intended to do yesterday morning, but I was beaten to it when the Optician’s at NGH actually called me. I now have an assessment appointment for next Monday morning.

 There’s a lot of activity in Crick village these days. One of the bus stops is being relocated and they are taking the hump out of the bridge over the canal. Apparently there are some new wind turbines coming this way and, if the bridge is left as is the low-loaders carrying them will most likely get stuck on the bridge. This is causing utter traffic chaos, but makes it much easier for us when crossing the road outside the marina. All we have to do is wait until the traffic stops at the lights and make our way across. Also, some local rich person has donated £50,000 for the building of a footbridge besides the existing road bridge. At the moment walkers take their lives in their hands, because the pavement width on the bridge is very narrow and it can be pretty dodgy walking that pathway with lorries thundering by.

 Friday 26^th February

 Yesterday afternoon, as is our wont, we took a walk but, instead of the usual round-the-village-tour, we took a stroll along the towpath and dropped some books off to Peter, on his boat Veloce. After that we carried on along the towpath, to the next bridge where we took the path into the fields and let Alex off his lead for a good run around. We then made our way through a couple more fields and ended up at the nearby roundabout. From where it was just a short walk back to the marina. All in all, about an hour long walk.

 This morning we’re taking the bus into Rugby. I need some more fine-tip pens and an A3 pad of Watercolour Paper. I’ve no doubt we’ll visit a few charity shops and the coffee shop, before catching the next bus back.

 Now, as the weekend is almost upon us and this blog is now four pages long, I might as well post it.

 All the best folks and have a great weekend.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Crick 2015 16 5

Monday 18^th January to Friday 12^th February

 Wednesday 20^th January

 Yesterday was a fun day, if you can call the following fun. After doing our shopping at Sainsbury’s, we came home and had a cup of coffee.

 Later in the morning we had a cup of tea and I noticed that the galley sink was blocked. This is not uncommon, but in this instance no amount of plunging would remove the obstruction. So, since I am unable to get down on my hands and knees, without some difficulty, it was down to Wifey to remove the pipework. But first we had to remove some stored items from the shelf under there.

 Fortunately, it was only the top pipe that needed cleaning out; the rest of that pipework is pretty haphazard. Equally fortunate is the fact that we have a length of 3 core cable in amongst our tools, so I was able to free up some of the gunge in the pipe. We already had the Immersion heater running, so it was then a simple matter of running the hot tap in the shower room, through the pipe and alternately the cold tap. You would not believe the amount of gunge that finally dropped out of that pipe.

 After lunch we walked over to the rubbish bins to dispose of our junk and recycling stuff and followed this up with a walk to the office for our mail. And, lo and behold, I had a letter from the hospital for an appointment with that nasty man who rummaged around in my bladder last year.

 Now, we have booked our boat in to have its bottom blacked. This takes a few days and so we also booked a short break in a cottage in Rutland Water. Believe it or not, the hospital has booked me in for the first day of that short break. So, once again I am obliged to cancel a hospital appointment. They weren’t too happy about my last cancellation; and nor was my GP, for that matter; so they won’t be best pleased this time. And, if they try to make an appointment for much later that April 1^st, that too will be cancelled.

 Such is life and all its praise, when you die, you’ve had it!!

 Thursday 21^st January

 I have a programme called Mediaface 4, which is a label design programme. When I bought the Acer I installed this, but an error message popped up, suggesting that it didn’t install correctly. So, I contacted the makers of the programme and they suggested I uninstall version 4 and download and install version 5. Unfortunately, the programme wouldn’t uninstall, so I returned to the makers and asked their advice. Their reply suggested I insert the CD and go through the install procedure but, when it gives me the choice, I should click on Remove. Once again, unfortunately, such a message did not appear, so I’ve emailed them again for more advice.

 Meanwhile I have found and downloaded Incredimail, a programme that allows the insertion of emoticons into emails. Whoopee!!

 Friday 22^nd January

 I am absolutely furious at myself! I downloaded and installed Incredimail, hoping to add some comical smileys to my emails and, guess what, it took over my emails. So much so that, when I opened Outlook, I didn’t receive any emails at all, they were all in Incredimail. In effect it replaced Outlook altogether. Well, I couldn’t have that, now could I? So, I uninstalled the programme, which led to further problems. After uninstalling the programme, I accessed my Internet account at Absolute Email and found that Incredimail had not only downloaded my emails, it had wiped them from the site. So, I now have no idea what emails were there.

 There was one email there, which came from the label makers, Neato and, it’s just as well I read that because I would now have no idea what to do with that programme either.

 Monday 25^th January

 As usual, we spent an hour at the club at lunchtime. As usual, we spent £2.00 on the meat raffle and, once again, we won a prize, this time it was the steak. That makes seven wins since we returned to Crick last October. Love it!!

 Tuesday 26^th January

 Sunday evening, we thought we might take the boat out for a few days from Monday morning. Unfortunately, after watching Country File and discovering we were about to be inundated with rain and high winds, we decided against such a stupid idea. As expected, the high winds came along yesterday, and the rain has now started, so we probably made the right decision.

 Wednesday 27^th January

 Wednesdays are usually ‘crumpet’ days. By which I mean, we have crumpets for breakfast. But, since we forgot to get crumpets the last time we went shopping, we’ll have to settle for toast.

 Now, when I bought the Acer, I assumed that the ‘ping’ I heard when booting up, was a normal thing with this laptop. However, when I played a music track the other day, I could hear that ‘ping’ in the background. That, I think, is not normal.

 So, I emailed Acer on Monday and back came their reply this morning. It seems I have a software issue and, if I would like to call their technical people, they would be happy to assist, but; yeah, there’s always a but; it will probably cost me, which means I’ll have to contact the person I bought it from and see what he has to say. Either that, or I get our local computer buff to have a look. Whichever way I go I can see this costing me.

 Saturday 30^th January

 Here we go again, more trouble with the car! I really am getting rather fed up with taking the darned thing to the garage. Only a few weeks back it was a problem with the exhaust, primarily the joint between the two catalytic converters. That job took Chris about four hours to complete. This time around it’s the exhaust again. I asked Malcolm to check it out yesterday afternoon, and he confirmed it is blowing, so in it goes again this morning. Hopefully it just needs tightening up at the aforementioned joint, but I’m not holding my breath. The trouble is, what with all this medical stuff; eye appointments and hospital appointments; I really do need a car. I guess I’ll just have to save a few more pennies and trade the Alfa in, for what, I don’t know yet!!

 Thursday 4^th February

 Well, almost another week has flashed past and I’ve been up to my neck creating a cartoon portrait for Wendy at the club. Ordinarily this wouldn’t be too much of a problem, but she has asked me to include her partner, Dean, and her two children, Ethan and Madison. So, I’m working of four photos, only the two of the kids being clear enough to work with.

So, what’s happened this week so far? Well, we’ve had high winds and lots of rain. We’ve also had some light frost. Other than that, well, Life Goes On, as they say.

 Another minor disaster was the zip breaking on my waterproof jacked, but since it’s as old as Methusalah, I’m now looking for a new one. That’s the lightweight one. My heavy, winter jacket has become very uncomfortable, especially when the weather is just cold enough for a heavy jacket, but not warm enough to wear a light jacket. So, I soon find myself sweating; especially on my arms; which sees me draping the sleeves over Wifey’s chair, in order to dry them out before wearing it again.

 More money has also been spent on the car, the exhaust again. Soon after that connecting part had been fitted between the two catalytic converters the darn thing started blowing again. Chris had done his best with that part of the job, but Malcolm decided it needed a couple of new bolts fitted; thus another £42.00. It’s only money!!!

 Today we popped into town in order to buy me one of my new jackets, but what we found were either too short or had those double zips in them. By double zips I mean those two slots at the bottom of the zip, the ones I have so much trouble lining up and fitting together with the toggle. Grrrr!! Damn things.

 Tomorrow we will be popping along to the huge Garden Centre that lies a little way outside Rugby. If I can’t get a decent waterproof jacket there, then I don’t know where I can.

 Friday 12^th February

 …..and there goes another week, during which time we’ve spent some time in Rugby; both looking for a new waterproof for me and taking my existing one in for a new zip.

 A couple of weeks ago I read about Dr. Michael Mosley and his Eight Week Diet, which is supposed to go some way towards improving one’s diabetes blood sugar levels, if not actually eliminating the problem itself. After reading about the types of food he recommended for his menus, I decided against it.

 However, last week sometime, I took a look on Amazon and found his book in paperback and costing only £3.75, so I took a gamble and bought it. Having read through about ¾ of it I have to say I’m pretty impressed. So much so that, after downloading a food calorie counter – and aiming to download a Glycaemic Index list – I am going to give it a try, once I’ve read through the rest of the book that is.

 Now, yet another weekend is almost upon us, so I guess I’d better post this blog.

 Take care and have a great weekend.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.

 

 

 

 

 

Winter Crick 2015 164

Friday 18^th December to Monday 18^th January

 Sunday 20^th December

 We’re all still waiting for Winter to rear its ugly head, but we still have temperatures in double figures. I’ve heard that even Daffodils are opening out. I don’t mind the warmer weather, but I’m sure we’ll know all about it when the real Winter arrives.

 Today we’ll be attending the club as usual, but this time we’ll be bringing home a pack of sausages, which we won in last week’s meat raffle. This is the third time we’ve won the raffle, and long may it continue.

 26 December 2015

 

Well, Christmas passed as usual and in the usual manner; we popped into the club and, as you would expect on Christmas Day, it was pretty busy.

 For Christmas dinner we had roast beef, Yorkshire pudding and roast pork, along with pigs in blankets, of course. Naturally our Alex sampled some too, but not too much.

 27th December 2015

 I love my Christmas dinner, which usually comprises turkey and all the trimmings. However, just for a change we bought a good sized joint of beef and pork. Yesterday we enjoyed cold meat with bubble and squeek, along with pickled onions, gherkins and Pickled Lily. Lovely!!

 Today? Well, we'll pop along to the club again - well, it is Sunday and it would be rude not to. At the moment we have rain, but I'm hopeful that it will have stopped by lunchtime.

 Friday 1st January 2016

 Well, the New Year is here and it doesn't seem much different than 2015. Still, I've done one thing, that I may live to regret, and that's that I've joined Facebook. Having found umpteen people I know on there and, having also clicked on the films and music I like, I now have a page full of photos and comments from people and bands. Initially I was flooded with emails from Facebook, but they seem to have tailed off now. We'll see how it goes.

 Sunday 3rd January 2016

 I've been trying to reset the VAIO to its original factory settings, but without success. I've tried with a Repair Disc and I've tried using the Product Code and downloading Windows 7 from Microsoft, also without success.

 Having tried all that I then emailed the man I bought it from and they've asked how much I want to sell it for. They also told me that they have Windows 7 on a USB stick, so I may have to buy that first. Unfortunately I will first need to reset it, because there is sensitive info on that laptop which needs to be deleted. No doubt they'll make me an offer, I hope.

 Monday 4th January 2016

 Well, according to Dave, the man I bought the VAIO from, there's a button, next to the Power button, that should do the trick. There are actually three buttons in that area, one of which goes straight to the Web, another says 'VAIO' and the last one is 'Assist'. Neither of these last two do anything, not even in conjunction with Ctrl or Shift. So, I'm now back to square one. Our man Dave does have Windows 7 on a USB stick and I've asked him how much he wants for that. If I don't get this laptop sorted I'll be stuck with it forever. Failing that I'll have to take it down to Frank in Harlow.

 Thursday 7th January

 After checking up Argos for a new luminous bedside clock, and finding just the thing, we took the bus into Rugby and called into Argos for that clock. Not in their catalogue, which made me rather annoyed. So, first thing this morning, I once again looked on the Argos site and found the same clock there, but I also found a different on costing £5.00 less, which I then ordered and paid online and arranged to collect it from their shop in the Homebase store in Daventry, thus saving myself the £3.99 delivery charge. Job done.

 Friday 8th January

 This morning, on the advice of my GP I tried to make an appointment with Northampton Hospital, but there were none available. What a shame!

 Having already had an in depth eye test at Boot's, with the intention of having new glasses, I was told I needed a cataract removed. I have also received a letter asking me to book an appointment for a Retinal Scan, which is an annual event for me due to my diabetes. This I have now done. At that appointment I will ask if the cataract removal is necessary right now. Depending upon their answer, will depend upon if I have the removal carried out now, or leave it for a while. At the moment my eyes feel just fine, but, what do I know?

 Sunday 10^th January

 After much deliberation I have now installed Microsoft Office 365. I now find that previous Word documents, that were written in Word 2007, are now opening in Compatibility Mode in the new Word 2016. This will probably happen with all earlier documents, unless I copy and paste from Word 2007 to Word 2016.

 Monday 18^th January

 It has now been over a week since I brought this blog up to date, which just goes to show how ‘normal’ our daily lives are.

 Now, having downloaded and installed Office 365, I pinned Word, Outlook and Excel to the Task Bar. I then discovered that it isn’t possible to open and existing document and open a blank document at the same time. At least, this can’t be done from the Task Bar, but a blank document can be opened up alongside the original, but it must be opened from the Start Menu. Problem solved!

 Since arriving back at Crick at the end of October, we have won six prizes on the club meat raffle. I didn’t know we had such a large amount of good fortune. Happy days!

 To my eternal shame, it’s now been a month since I posted a blog and so, although this one is only three pages long, I’ll post it now and save you the agony of maybe thinking I had left the country, or worse.

 Cheers for now and have a good week.

 Dave, Sheila and Alex.