Cold Ale - The Blokes' Thread! [Archive] - Page 27

Sancho

05-08-2013, 10:08 PM

Good Lord, what a party!

I'm not fully recovered yet. I think somebody used my head as a bongo drum. I'm not quite sure what was real and what wasn't. Life was but a dream, yada-yada-yada....

Sorry 'bout the weather. Last weekend we had more thunder showers at Sancho's Farm than we've had in a long-long time. But hey, like they say in the army: if it ain't raining - we ain't training. (Also, Sancho's Farm isn't really a farm - it's just a few acres on which Sancho and his old lady planted a some pecan trees, strictly for tax purposes.)

At any rate, the rain didn't stop the Lit-Net's garage band. Fragmentation Nation brought down the house (or in this particular case, the barn). The final make-up of the band was: 3 guitars, a bass guitar, 2 banjos, a fiddle, a bull-bass fiddle, a trombone, a snare drum, some hand grenades, and a battery of 105mm Howitzers.

Of course the rain didn't stop the Pontani Sisters from perfectly pulsating their pectorals and giving El Sancho a partial panic attack.

The bean-ball challenge was a real hit. The North American team claimed victory, but then again, so did the British team. It was so muddy, it was hard to tell who was who.

Speaking of The Bean -

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/9f5ffc00-3091-4e6d-a277-0745d8370ea6_zpsacee0048.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/9f5ffc00-3091-4e6d-a277-0745d8370ea6_zpsacee0048.jpg.html)

She seemed to be saying, "Uh, I wouldn't do that if I were you, Sancho." You see, the mosh pit was so muddy that we didn't need to go down to the lake to play Lake Idiot - we played Mosh-Pit Idiot instead. We modified the original game by leaping into the mosh pit from the hay loft. It went okay. I think.

What a weekend. So where is the next Annual Barn-Dance Barbecue and Book Club Party going to be?

The Atheist

05-08-2013, 11:23 PM

Good idea - once I recover from this one.

We must have more parties - I've been the busiest I've been in months the last couple of weeks!

Next time, a different theme is called for.

Sancho

05-09-2013, 07:10 AM

Haha

Good point, A', and I agree - More parties.

If this party had a theme, I think it must've been - being irresponsible.

The Atheist

05-09-2013, 03:03 PM

Irresponsible?

Rock music at 5 am...... illegal, home-made fireworks.... firing live howitzers?

How's that irresponsible?

Paulclem

05-09-2013, 04:14 PM

Agreed. So long as you point them the other way, then they'll probably be ok...

After "THE PARTY TO INCULCATE FURTHER FANTASTICAL PARTIES", this is somewhat tame, but it has a whimsical charm.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2013/apr/20/played-tag-23-years-experience

I thought I'd try to get my work colleagues to take it up, and we have developed a version clown tag, that is getting lumbered with a toy clown surreptitiously placedon your desk by the end of the day. We now have to try to spread the joy across our offices over the city. More strategic fun.

prendrelemick

05-10-2013, 02:29 AM

Our cat plays a version of that - with dead things.

Paulclem

05-10-2013, 03:15 AM

Our cat plays a version of that - with dead things.

It's on a par with that intellectually.

Gilliatt Gurgle

05-11-2013, 09:45 PM

...I thought I'd try to get my work colleagues to take it up, and we have developed a version clown tag, that is getting lumbered with a toy clown surreptitiously placedon your desk by the end of the day. We now have to try to spread the joy across our offices over the city. More strategic fun.

Our cat plays a version of that - with dead things.

Sounds like clowns have become a current trend in your life Paul.
Over here it's those gotdang Gnomes popping up everywhere.

...Next time, a different theme is called for.

Actually, I was already toying with a Beatnik idea a couple of weeks ago.

“Crazy...hey big daddy”
“How are you Wilbur?”
“Like it don’t ever change Pete. I just keep swingin, creates a wild draft and I stay cool.”
“You remember Capri ?”

“…but this is the real chic all of it not just the crazy façade dig? :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g8W4wZVGnu4

.

prendrelemick

05-12-2013, 02:25 AM

Straight from the fridge Daddy-o.

Hawkman

05-12-2013, 03:56 AM

Paulclem

05-12-2013, 05:22 PM

Sounds like clowns have become a current trend in your life Paul.
Over here it's those gotdang Gnomes popping up everywhere.

.

Yeah - those crazy clowns. The clown tag thing was just coincidence.......or was it?.........

We, (the committee), went on an inspection of the allotment site today and noted the plots that needed tidying up, weren't cultivating 60% etc etc.

I have to send myself a letter now, as mine needs some tidying.

The Atheist

05-12-2013, 07:51 PM

All that partying - see where it gets you.

Degenerate!

Gilliatt Gurgle

05-16-2013, 10:32 PM

Now that sounds like a happening thing. I'm a rebel (http://www.online-literature.com/forums/showthread.php?68942-The-), but I don't yell, I just get up front and purr portentously into the mike... Cool ;)

Your "Rebel" is the grease that'll make the wheels roll
when we all collect to free our soul
and swing on Frankenstein's furrowed field, dig?
(get it?- dig -furrowed field)

Yeah - those crazy clowns. The clown tag thing was just coincidence.......or was it?.........

We, (the committee), went on an inspection of the allotment site today and noted the plots that needed tidying up, weren't cultivating 60% etc etc.

I have to send myself a letter now, as mine needs some tidying.

As I alluded to above, I say we help our brother increase his yield by beating a path to Coventry and have an allotment party.
I'm bringing Phillpa Fallon (note Uncle Fester tickling the ivory) :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?NR=1&v=bVOXxDV5BdI&list=RD02APE5ppsZDng&feature=endscreen

soundofmusic

05-28-2013, 12:25 AM

Sorry I was away for awhile guys, my dad died and I was feeling .... hum, sorry I had to visit my relatives...yep, that was it. He was an ornery old cuss who lived until he was 90, worked every day of his live, beat our tails even on Christmas until we were smart enough to move out.....good life....
Now, visiting the relatives....that is painful...Do you all have your daddies or crazy relatives?

Ha!
Sounds, remember Justin Wilson?
Now that guy could whip up a mess of fine vittles and tall tale to boot...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eK4umRMJlrs

I loved Justin, one time I made the mistake of following his recipe for Shrimp Gumbo...never had such a hot, greasy mess in my life...
one sip...it sure was a wonderfully flavorful hot greasy mess...heaven until the pain hit my stomach.

Never liked circuses with animals - not that I'd been to many.

Those Cirque De Soleil people- entertaining and disturbing and awesome. A fine combination without the tackiness of the circuses of old.

No news about the job yet. They buggered up the online advert, and had to re-advertise it again. I've had mine submitted for three weeks now. We'll see. The longer it goes on, the less confident you feel.

Yes, what is so disturbing about those people.
I hate the way jobs do that now. What ever happened to the days when you went in and they hired you on the spot.

Good Lord, what a party!

I'm not fully recovered yet. I think somebody used my head as a bongo drum. I'm not quite sure what was real and what wasn't. Life was but a dream, yada-yada-yada....

Sorry 'bout the weather. Last weekend we had more thunder showers at Sancho's Farm than we've had in a long-long time. But hey, like they say in the army: if it ain't raining - we ain't training. (Also, Sancho's Farm isn't really a farm - it's just a few acres on which Sancho and his old lady planted a some pecan trees, strictly for tax purposes.)

At any rate, the rain didn't stop the Lit-Net's garage band. Fragmentation Nation brought down the house (or in this particular case, the barn). The final make-up of the band was: 3 guitars, a bass guitar, 2 banjos, a fiddle, a bull-bass fiddle, a trombone, a snare drum, some hand grenades, and a battery of 105mm Howitzers.

Of course the rain didn't stop the Pontani Sisters from perfectly pulsating their pectorals and giving El Sancho a partial panic attack.

The bean-ball challenge was a real hit. The North American team claimed victory, but then again, so did the British team. It was so muddy, it was hard to tell who was who.

Speaking of The Bean -

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/9f5ffc00-3091-4e6d-a277-0745d8370ea6_zpsacee0048.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/9f5ffc00-3091-4e6d-a277-0745d8370ea6_zpsacee0048.jpg.html)

She seemed to be saying, "Uh, I wouldn't do that if I were you, Sancho." You see, the mosh pit was so muddy that we didn't need to go down to the lake to play Lake Idiot - we played Mosh-Pit Idiot instead. We modified the original game by leaping into the mosh pit from the hay loft. It went okay. I think.

What a weekend. So where is the next Annual Barn-Dance Barbecue and Book Club Party going to be?

I'll tell you Sancho, I always wondered why I decided to stay down here and sweat 3/4 of the year and then get blown away by hurricanes the other 1/4; but our weather is starting to look pretty good compared to the rest of the US lately....
We are having some nice rain and winds. Maybe we should catch one of those cheap summer flights and stay with one of the blokes in the UK.

The Atheist

05-28-2013, 12:48 AM

Sancho

05-28-2013, 10:46 PM

Sorry to hear about your dad, Sounds.

Did ya ever see the movie, No Time For Sergeants? It's an old black-and-white film from the 50s. A very young Andy Griffith plays a country bumpkin who gets drafted into the Air Force - and has adventures. Anyway at one point he's taking a psychological test to see if he's mentally fit for the service (oddly enough the guy giving him the interview is played by Don Knotts)

Don - Your father...
Andy - Yes?
Don - Did he ever beat you?
Andy (grinning) - And how! Ain't nobody can beat like my Pa.
Don - So you hate your father.
Andy - No, of course not.

You know, not so long ago I was down in your neck of the woods visiting an uncle who was dying. He'd had an explosive heart attack out on a boat dock, but somebody did CPR on him and the EMTs got there quickly, so he wound up lasting a week or so at a hospital up in Stuart. It was just long enough for most of the family to get there to say goodby. So we're running around and squaring things away, picking up people down at the PBI airport, shuttling cars around, getting hotel rooms, making sure everybody knows what happened - the usual stuff. I remember thinking, hey, Sounds lives around here; I oughtta PM her and see if she wants to meet for coffee. Then I thought, nah, probably better to keep on-line personalities on-line.

By the way, I can sympathize with 3/4 year sweatiness. It's sweaty around Hot-lanta too. Everybody sweats. I'm looking at a glass of iced tea right now that's sweating on a coaster. You know, out west, cold drinks don't sweat. Strange but true. I didn't believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes.

soundofmusic

05-30-2013, 12:28 AM

Lost mine over 30 years ago.

But all my living relatives are crazy!

Good to see you back.

Thanks, Atheist, It's good to be back. Yeah, a while back I decided to meet some of the relatives I hadn't seen since I was a kid to see if they grew up all right...wow, after meeting the rest of my family, I was surprised I turned out half sane. Wow, you lost your dad when you were a kid. Who was around to give you beatings haha.

Sorry to hear about your dad, Sounds.

Did ya ever see the movie, No Time For Sergeants? It's an old black-and-white film from the 50s. A very young Andy Griffith plays a country bumpkin who gets drafted into the Air Force - and has adventures. Anyway at one point he's taking a psychological test to see if he's mentally fit for the service (oddly enough the guy giving him the interview is played by Don Knotts)

Don - Your father...
Andy - Yes?
Don - Did he ever beat you?
Andy (grinning) - And how! Ain't nobody can beat like my Pa.
Don - So you hate your father.
Andy - No, of course not.

You know, not so long ago I was down in your neck of the woods visiting an uncle who was dying. He'd had an explosive heart attack out on a boat dock, but somebody did CPR on him and the EMTs got there quickly, so he wound up lasting a week or so at a hospital up in Stuart. It was just long enough for most of the family to get there to say goodby. So we're running around and squaring things away, picking up people down at the PBI airport, shuttling cars around, getting hotel rooms, making sure everybody knows what happened - the usual stuff. I remember thinking, hey, Sounds lives around here; I oughtta PM her and see if she wants to meet for coffee. Then I thought, nah, probably better to keep on-line personalities on-line.

By the way, I can sympathize with 3/4 year sweatiness. It's sweaty around Hot-lanta too. Everybody sweats. I'm looking at a glass of iced tea right now that's sweating on a coaster. You know, out west, cold drinks don't sweat. Strange but true. I didn't believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes.

It's funny, my dad really liked that movie and really liked Andy. I'll have to watch it again.
Well if you ever get down the Ft Lauderdale area, you be sure to give us a holler. Me and Silent would both love to meet you....
It's too bad we can't meet all the fellows around here. I think we are all a pretty nice group and I'm sure we would be the same in person. Well, as long as they aren't expecting me to look as sexy as my picture....I'm still sexy; but I've gained about 70 pounds and a lot of gray hair.

soundofmusic

05-30-2013, 12:35 AM

By the way, I can sympathize with 3/4 year sweatiness. It's sweaty around Hot-lanta too. Everybody sweats. I'm looking at a glass of iced tea right now that's sweating on a coaster. You know, out west, cold drinks don't sweat. Strange but true. I didn't believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes.

It's been a bit better here lately, raining every day. Of course, I don't feel like doing anything when it rains.. Cold drinks don't sweat huh...I wonder if they do in England...how about it guys. I remember when I visited England, I was surprised how dry it was. I always feel sticky in South Florida, like I need to shower every time I wash dishes or sweep; there, I could walk a mile and feel fresh.

Oh, Stuart is about 3 hours north of me, nice area though.

Sancho

05-30-2013, 05:37 PM

prendrelemick

05-31-2013, 03:39 AM

Mad dogs and Englishmen drink their tea piping hot in summer and then THEY sweat.

soundofmusic

05-31-2013, 09:18 PM

Ah hah! For some reason I thought you were up near Palm Beach.

Anyway, I'm willing to bet that a glass of iced tea would sweat in England (that is, of course, if the English had the sense to ice their tea). It's got to do with temperature/dew-point spread. So if there's only a couple of degrees of difference between the air temp and the saturation point of the air, the glass will sweat. Out in the Mohave Desert where the temp can be 100 degrees Fahrenheit while the dew point is around 20 degrees, the glass won't sweat. I thought it was odd the first time I saw it. I assumed the drink wasn't cold because the glass didn't have dew on it. Weird. Around here when it's 85 degrees the dew point can be 82 - icky-sticky. "Good Lowered and Sweet Jaysus, Ah need a Mint Julep, Ah buleve Ah am gettin' tha vapors."

Laudy, I'm a bringin that Julep as fas as ah can....Well, don't understand a thing about dew points. All I know is that today, when I visited the laundry, my pants were stickin to my waist and other places I wont mention. Why do we have to have parts of our body that hang down and stick to other parts. Then, as we get older, even our eyelids and chins start hanging down....
Silent says we should move to a cold climate.

You know, come to think of it, Stuart may only be an hour and a half...that's the Kennedys that live in Palm Beach, I live near the BeeGees...or where they used to live....on the wrong side of the railroad tracks from them.
Between Miami and Ft Lauderdale....a stones throw from where the liquor store used to be where uncle Jimmy John shot himself...

Mad dogs and Englishmen drink their tea piping hot in summer and then THEY sweat.

I hear hot tea keeps you cool; wouldn't know, I drink my tea in the a/c.
Do you all drink anything cold?

Well, I've just rented the downtown Abbey series and I've got my tissues next to me...ready to cry some more...You English have some great tv...

The Atheist

06-01-2013, 12:39 AM

Silent says we should move to a cold climate.

Brrrr. Whatever you do, don't do that.

One thing I have noticed is that tolerance for cold decreases with age. What you need to lose is the humidity.

That Mojave Desert sounds like the place!

Sancho

06-02-2013, 01:22 AM

In my opinion, the deserts of the Southwestern United States are wonderful and beautiful places, also they are vicious and hazardous places. I've lived in the Mojave Desert in Southern California and in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona.

The Mojave (Mo-HAH-vee) is mostly high-desert (3000 feet elevation, plus or minus) and consequently it tends to have cool evenings, even after blistering-hot days. For me it has a distinctive smell, particularly early in the morning. Once you experience it, you will never forget it. It's sort of tangy and sage-like and I think it comes from the creosote plants. I love the smell of the Mojave in the morning. Every once in a while the climate will hit a sweet spot and an entire hillside will cover itself in a carpet of desert flowers for a few days, yellow, blue, shades of purple, usually just one color at a time. The seeds may have been lying dormant for years, waiting for that magic combination of moisture and temperature to germinate, and then - voila - it's party-time.

The Mojave also is home to these little fellers:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/5a333245-7eda-4cb0-910b-5f732ef9d515_zps1381a262.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/5a333245-7eda-4cb0-910b-5f732ef9d515_zps1381a262.jpg.html)

The Mojave-Green Rattlesnake has a particularly potent venom, and as I understand it, their venom has a neurotoxin and a hemotoxin. But what makes them especially dangerous is their aggressiveness. An Air Force Survival Instructor told me that the Mojave Green displays unusual behavior for a snake - it's territorial. So the hapless desert wanderer (or unfortunate downed pilot, crawling away from the wreckage) who happens to violate the Green's territory - will be attacked.

I like a critter with gumption.

The Sonoran Desert by contrast is mostly low desert. I remember days in Tucson where it'd hit 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon and by midnight it'd only cooled down to a 100 or so. But as they say - "it's a dry heat." Even on the hottest days there, I never got sweaty. I sweated, but I was never sweaty; it evaporated too quickly. To me it felt prickly all over. Every pore of my body would perspire, but then would immediately evaporate, and a thousand tiny beads of sweat became a thousand tiny evaporative coolers and felt like a thousand little pin-pricks.

At any rate, a good book about the Desert Southwest is: Desert Solitaire by Ed Abbey. I'd go so far as to say it's a great book, one of El Sancho's favorites.

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-02-2013, 07:14 PM

l...Do you all have your daddies or crazy relatives?

Sorry to hear of your loss Sounds.
I lost both parents when somewhat young-mother in 1988 and dad in '91, but I still have my four older siblings and yes they/ we are crazy as evidenced by what I've shared over the past few years on here.

....You know, out west, cold drinks don't sweat. Strange but true. I didn't believe it myself until I saw it with my own eyes.

I've travelled west enough to confirm, except for that one time in Gallup New Mexico.
It was sometime back in the '70's we were eating at a diner off of Old Route 66 when a bus pulled up outside.
Sophia Loren walks in, my adolescent shorts started to dance, but what's more amazing was to see ice water glasses slipping from the patrons hands.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg.html)

Sancho

06-03-2013, 07:32 PM

Sorry to hear of your loss Sounds.
I lost both parents when somewhat young-mother in 1988 and dad in '91, but I still have my four older siblings and yes they/ we are crazy as evidenced by what I've shared over the past few years on here.

Kinda looks like she's trying to shmoosh 'em together to make one great big one.

I've travelled west enough to confirm, except for that one time in Gallup New Mexico.
It was sometime back in the '70's we were eating at a diner off of Old Route 66 when a bus pulled up outside.
Sophia Loren walks in, my adolescent shorts started to dance, but what's more amazing was to see ice water glasses slipping from the patrons hands.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg.html)

Kinda looks like she's trying to shmoosh 'em together to make one great big one.

soundofmusic

06-04-2013, 12:40 AM

QUOTE=The Atheist;1221577]Brrrr. Whatever you do, don't do that.

One thing I have noticed is that tolerance for cold decreases with age. What you need to lose is the humidity.

That Mojave Desert sounds like the place![/QUOTE]

The one nice thing about the cold is you can always put on more clothes....you can't get naked enough on a hot day. I wonder if a bit of cold might pick up some of the parts of me that gravity has dropped...I know my stomach used to be a bit higher.
don't think I would like scooping snow off the roof though.

In my opinion, the deserts of the Southwestern United States are wonderful and beautiful places, also they are vicious and hazardous places. I've lived in the Mojave Desert in Southern California and in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona.

The Mojave (Mo-HAH-vee) is mostly high-desert (3000 feet elevation, plus or minus) and consequently it tends to have cool evenings, even after blistering-hot days. For me it has a distinctive smell, particularly early in the morning. Once you experience it, you will never forget it. It's sort of tangy and sage-like and I think it comes from the creosote plants. I love the smell of the Mojave in the morning. Every once in a while the climate will hit a sweet spot and an entire hillside will cover itself in a carpet of desert flowers for a few days, yellow, blue, shades of purple, usually just one color at a time. The seeds may have been lying dormant for years, waiting for that magic combination of moisture and temperature to germinate, and then - voila - it's party-time.

The Mojave also is home to these little fellers:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/5a333245-7eda-4cb0-910b-5f732ef9d515_zps1381a262.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/5a333245-7eda-4cb0-910b-5f732ef9d515_zps1381a262.jpg.html)

The Mojave-Green Rattlesnake has a particularly potent venom, and as I understand it, their venom has a neurotoxin and a hemotoxin. But what makes them especially dangerous is their aggressiveness. An Air Force Survival Instructor told me that the Mojave Green displays unusual behavior for a snake - it's territorial. So the hapless desert wanderer (or unfortunate downed pilot, crawling away from the wreckage) who happens to violate the Green's territory - will be attacked.

I like a critter with gumption.

The Sonoran Desert by contrast is mostly low desert. I remember days in Tucson where it'd hit 120 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon and by midnight it'd only cooled down to a 100 or so. But as they say - "it's a dry heat." Even on the hottest days there, I never got sweaty. I sweated, but I was never sweaty; it evaporated too quickly. To me it felt prickly all over. Every pore of my body would perspire, but then would immediately evaporate, and a thousand tiny beads of sweat became a thousand tiny evaporative coolers and felt like a thousand little pin-pricks.

At any rate, a good book about the Desert Southwest is: Desert Solitaire by Ed Abbey. I'd go so far as to say it's a great book, one of El Sancho's favorites.

Ah Sancho, where were you in my high school days...I can just imagine sitting in the back seat of my dads old Studebaker and you telling me about snakes and flowers....I think I would fall in love right then...
I seem to recall the smell of Creosote...what was that used for?

Oh, by the way, the thing with the purple tongue...my older sister...yep, happened when I was looking over some of the family heirlooms...I didn't go back, even though I hear she gave big brother bubba a pair of daddies used shorts and little brother a broken timex....

Sorry to hear of your loss Sounds.
I lost both parents when somewhat young-mother in 1988 and dad in '91, but I still have my four older siblings and yes they/ we are crazy as evidenced by what I've shared over the past few years on here.

I've travelled west enough to confirm, except for that one time in Gallup New Mexico.
It was sometime back in the '70's we were eating at a diner off of Old Route 66 when a bus pulled up outside.
Sophia Loren walks in, my adolescent shorts started to dance, but what's more amazing was to see ice water glasses slipping from the patrons hands.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/imagesCAM24WB0_zpsf5234dba.jpg.html)

Sorry to hear you lost your parents early. I think it is hard to lose loved ones at any age; though hopefully, Silent will lose me before I start wearing diapers again...

Wow, are you putting us on, or did you really see Sophia? Hum, I wonder what gravity has done to her....has anyone seen Raquel Welch lately?

Kinda looks like she's trying to shmoosh 'em together to make one great big one.

You guys had any experience with the push up bras? I remember when I was a youngster, you could make anything look 3 times its size by putting a wire under it and pushing it together...trick was to buy it one size smaller.

Sancho

06-06-2013, 04:32 PM

Ah Sancho, where were you in my high school days...I can just imagine sitting in the back seat of my dads old Studebaker and you telling me about snakes and flowers....I think I would fall in love right then...

Mmm-hmm, what could'a been. Eh, Sounds? 'Cepting I think we should leave old Pappy's Studebaker in the garage and unleash the 360 very spirited ponies under the hood of El Sancho's ride:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg.html)

You and me in a Candy-Apple Red, 1965 Rag-Top Pontiac GTO, and the whole town would'a been saying, "Uh-Oh, here comes trouble."

Aiy-aiy-aiy. Okay, so, now back to the discussion of the mechanical apparatus known as the push-up bra...

prendrelemick

06-07-2013, 02:00 AM

I remember those front fastening ones.

Probably designed by a man who had a frustrating time as a hamfisted teenager.

Sancho

06-07-2013, 08:28 AM

I had a sweetie in high school whose father, claiming to portend the future, would pinch the clasps of her bra together with a pair of needle nosed pliers. Adapt and overcome, thought I. This paranoid parental procedure was of small consequence to somebody with intestinal fortitude, like myself. However, a certain finesse was lost in the operation, as I recall. I seem to remember her saying, "Don't mess my hair up!"

soundofmusic

06-07-2013, 10:50 PM

Mmm-hmm, what could'a been. Eh, Sounds? 'Cepting I think we should leave old Pappy's Studebaker in the garage and unleash the 360 very spirited ponies under the hood of El Sancho's ride:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg.html)

You and me in a Candy-Apple Red, 1965 Rag-Top Pontiac GTO, and the whole town would'a been saying, "Uh-Oh, here comes trouble."

Aiy-aiy-aiy. Okay, so, now back to the discussion of the mechanical apparatus known as the push-up bra...

I knew you were the man for me...look at all that seat room. I don't suppose you would let me take that honey for a ride? I guess that was 8 cylinders...how fast is it?

I remember those front fastening ones.

Probably designed by a man who had a frustrating time as a hamfisted teenager.

Ah, we ladies love the front fastening ones also. Most of the women liked to take those octopus arms and open the back hook, as for me, I just pulled down the shoulder straps, turned the hook to the front and undid it.
Of course, the fellows from the 70s sort of missed out because by then, we didn't bother with bras at all.

soundofmusic

06-07-2013, 10:59 PM

soundofmusic

06-07-2013, 11:04 PM

Did you check to see if he put on a chastity belt too? My dad used to get guys addresses and phone numbers before they took me out...
then they would drive up at night and practically push me out so they didn't have to see dad again.
How do you fellows feel about women with hair...a lot of the the ladies from the islands down here don't shave. How do you feel about men shaving their chests. A few of my boyfriends did it; though it was a little unnerving when I would find 5 oclock shadow on their chests....or worse.

prendrelemick

06-08-2013, 02:52 AM

Ahh The Wonder Bra years. I wouldn't bother shaving anything - unless it becomes a health and safty issue - You don't want to get anything caught in heavy machinery!

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-08-2013, 09:37 AM

....unleash the 360 very spirited ponies under the hood of El Sancho's ride:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image-2_zpsb0aed53a.jpg.html)

You and me in a Candy-Apple Red, 1965 Rag-Top Pontiac GTO, and the whole town would'a been saying, "Uh-Oh, here comes trouble."

...

I'm going to put Sounds question to me on you..."wow, are you putting us on?" ^that is a nice ride and convertable (looks like) to boot!

Wow, are you putting us on, or did you really see Sophia? Hum, I wonder what gravity has done to her....has anyone seen Raquel Welch lately?
...

Well, maybe a little.
Gallup, diner, Route 66-yes. The Sophia part was a stretch, but it's how I imagined it would go.

The discussion of wire frame support, led me to Constructivism and Tatlin's Tower:

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/ff/Tatlin%27s_Tower_maket_1919_year.jpg

.

Paulclem

06-08-2013, 02:42 PM

Back again - been really busy with the job and elderlies.

Gil asked about an allotment update - to date I've got in potatoes, sweetcorn, beans, leeks, courgettes, calabrese, cabbage and broad beans. Also I failed in my determination to get the greenhouse up. It's down at the allotment, but not up yet. Boo

Last week I managed to get sunburnt across the bottom of my back. I looked like a red a**ed baboon by the end of the day.

As for the job, I didn't get it. I failed in the cage fighting section of the interview, and gave away a submission at 1:1 when the big guy splashed me.

I did go to St Mary's Guildhall this week for the annual prizegiving for the allotment society. It's a very old building where Mary Queen of Scots was reputed to have been imprisoned for a short while. It has marvellous panelling and sturdy wooden furniture.

When you click on the links, scroll down to view the intended image which is larger.

This is the entrance to the hall

https://www.google.co.uk/search?safe=off&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1366&bih=566&q=st+mary%27s+guildhall+coventry&oq=st+mary%27s+guildhall&gs_l=img.1.0.0l3j0i24l5.2202.7890.0.10910.19.19.0. 0.0.0.84.1293.19.19.0.crnk_timediscountc..0.0...1. 1.16.img.dE-P1IjfP7E#facrc=_&imgrc=u06BH6iaNOanLM%3A%3BagLhR7fkfrxDHM%3Bhttp%25 3A%252F%252Fwww.historiccoventry.co.uk%252Ftour%25 2Fstmarys1.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.historicco ventry.co.uk%252Ftour%252Fguildhall.php%3B344%3B37 7

The back of the hall looking towards the gallery.

https://www.google.co.uk/search?safe=off&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1366&bih=566&q=st+mary%27s+guildhall+coventry&oq=st+mary%27s+guildhall&gs_l=img.1.0.0l3j0i24l5.2202.7890.0.10910.19.19.0. 0.0.0.84.1293.19.19.0.crnk_timediscountc..0.0...1. 1.16.img.dE-P1IjfP7E#facrc=_&imgrc=2LdICej5CzZycM%3A%3B-Ci2m8R_INKrHM%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fmedia-cdn.tripadvisor.com%252Fmedia%252Fphoto-s%252F02%252F6d%252Fd7%252Fc5%252Ffilename-dsc-3257-jpg.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.tripadvisor.co.uk %252FAttraction_Review-g186403-d649115-Reviews-St_Mary_s_Guildhall-Coventry_West_Midlands_England.html%3B550%3B365

The front of the hall which has a stage where the prizes were given out.

https://www.google.co.uk/search?safe=off&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1366&bih=566&q=st+mary%27s+guildhall+coventry&oq=st+mary%27s+guildhall&gs_l=img.1.0.0l3j0i24l5.4300.10548.0.13331.19.19.0 .0.0.0.125.1477.16j3.19.0.crnk_timediscountc..0.0. ..1.1.16.img.N6T421UEoPM#facrc=_&imgrc=m6aE2FxWbjgsEM%3A%3BXD5IlwKHW9hM9M%3Bhttp%25 3A%252F%252Fwww.jemsphotography.co.uk%252Fwp-content%252Fuploads%252F2012%252F06%252Fimage101.p ng%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.jemsphotography.co.uk% 252Fhannah-and-andrew%252F%3B450%3B450

The stained glass windows are pretty impressive too.

https://www.google.co.uk/search?safe=off&hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1366&bih=566&q=st+mary%27s+guildhall+coventry&oq=st+mary%27s+guildhall&gs_l=img.1.0.0l3j0i24l5.4300.10548.0.13331.19.19.0 .0.0.0.125.1477.16j3.19.0.crnk_timediscountc..0.0. ..1.1.16.img.N6T421UEoPM#facrc=_&imgrc=EdXW3WFIQe_mrM%3A%3BobF4XT2_WlG_AM%3Bhttp%25 3A%252F%252Fwww.english-heritage.org.uk%252Fcontent%252Fproperties%252Fken ilworth-castle-amp-elizabethan-garden%252Fkenilworth-castle%252Fkenilworth-castle-research-042.jpg%3Bhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.english-heritage.org.uk%252Fdaysout%252Fproperties%252Fken ilworth-castle%252Fhistory-and-research%252Fhistory%252F1-the-first-castle%252F%3B394%3B320

prendrelemick

06-08-2013, 03:41 PM

Paulclem

06-08-2013, 05:57 PM

You should've tried some moves of the recently deceased and much lamented Mick MacManus.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_PFJMRn72I

I've been to the guildhall, that's an epic setting for a prize giving.

I used to watch him when i was a kid. My mum and dad watched the wrestling every saturday afternoon, and were devastated when it all came out that it was fixed. Looking at it now I can't see why they ever thought it wasn't. The ladies with the handbags at the front used to crack me up.

The guildhall is an epic setting. While I was sitting there, I was reflecting on a photo of my wife's dad and uncle sitting in there with the machine tool guild 50 years ago. Very nice.

I had some good news last week. My youngest brother has got me and my other brother tickets to see England RL play the Irish in Huddersfield in November. I'm dead chuffed. I haven't been to a professional match since the 80s.

Sancho

06-08-2013, 08:39 PM

^Luchadors! Sweet!

I'm going to put Sounds question to me on you..."wow, are you putting us on?" ^that is a nice ride and convertable (looks like) to boot!

Nah, I found that photo on the web.

I found this photo on the web too, and it's a little more accurate depiction of El Sancho's high school ride. Come to think of it, it ain't all that far from El Sancho's current ride.

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image-2_zps4b5ab347.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image-2_zps4b5ab347.jpg.html)

I knew you were the man for me...look at all that seat room. I don't suppose you would let me take that honey for a ride? I guess that was 8 cylinders...how fast is it?

Of course. I'll pick you up at 8; I won't be late. Sounds, I do believe that car - the nice one not the jalopy - came standard with 389 V-8, which would develop around about 360 horse power when it hit top end. It'd go 0 - 60 in under 6 seconds. El Sancho's car, by contrast, would only hit 60 while in Mexican Overdrive (going down a very steep hill with clutch mashed in and praying to La Virgencia de Guadalupe).

Did you check to see if he put on a chastity belt too?

It wouldn't have mattered. They could've locked her in a bank vault and we'd've still found a way. High School hormones are super-charged.

The Atheist

06-09-2013, 05:44 PM

Ok, time to plan for the next party - a midsummer/midwinter solstice bash!

June 21st.

Barbeque for the northerners, mulled wine down south.

Traditional orgies of feasting and earthly delights, I think.

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-12-2013, 08:37 PM

Calidore

06-12-2013, 10:19 PM

My mother and I watched Staurday night wrestling on TV filmed live from the Dallas Sportatorium, now long since gone. This was followed by roller derby.
Fritz Von Erich was the local hero back in the day. He was known for the "Iron claw" sleeper hold.

I used to watch his World Class promotion back in the '80s. It was a great conference in its glory days. Never saw Fritz wrestle, but his kids (the oldest three anyway) and their friends, who made up the bulk of the cards, were lots of fun to watch. What a horrific and sad crash and burn that family did, though.

prendrelemick

06-13-2013, 02:13 AM

I had some good news last week. My youngest brother has got me and my other brother tickets to see England RL play the Irish in Huddersfield in November. I'm dead chuffed. I haven't been to a professional match since the 80s.

Not sure yet, but there is a good chance I'll be there too.

I'd like to go and see England vs Australia, but the RFL in their wisdom are holding it in Wales! a 10 hour round trip from their fan base.

The Atheist

06-13-2013, 07:36 PM

Blokes have a tendency to recirculate topics here, such as ale, orbs, cars, etc., but I can't recall a time that we've discussed authentic Greco-Roman wrestling.

That is one disturbing sport. From what I've seen of it at the Olympics, the only hold you can get involves some fairly personal areas. I hope they wash their hands after the bout!

I'll bring the meat for the barbie...

Brilliant! Should keep us going for a night.

prendrelemick

06-14-2013, 02:07 AM

Road Kill themed refreshments. Good start.

Paulclem

06-14-2013, 02:49 PM

Not sure yet, but there is a good chance I'll be there too.

I'd like to go and see England vs Australia, but the RFL in their wisdom are holding it in Wales! a 10 hour round trip from their fan base.

We could meet up for a pint.

The Australia game would be good - apart from the Wales bit. I saw Australia thrash us at Hull in the 80s when Mal Meninga played. We were awed. We'd just played Hull U-17s and they took us to the match.

Sancho

06-14-2013, 10:24 PM

prendrelemick

06-15-2013, 03:01 AM

We could meet up for a pint.

The Australia game would be good - apart from the Wales bit. I saw Australia thrash us at Hull in the 80s when Mal Meninga played. We were awed. We'd just played Hull U-17s and they took us to the match.

A pint would be good. Our old-meeting-up-before-a-match-in-Hudds pub has closed this year, The Somerset Arms, possibly the worst dive in Hudderfield, I'll never forget that carpet, it was probably once cheerfully patterned but had become a sticky brown morass smeared across the floor with the adhesive qualities of those post-it notes. When you walked on it your shoes made a tacky noise. The beer was crap the music was too loud, don't know why we went.

Paulclem

06-15-2013, 04:10 AM

A pint would be good. Our old-meeting-up-before-a-match-in-Hudds pub has closed this year, The Somerset Arms, possibly the worst dive in Hudderfield, I'll never forget that carpet, it was probably once cheerfully patterned but had become a sticky brown morass smeared across the floor with the adhesive qualities of those post-it notes. When you walked on it your shoes made a tacky noise. The beer was crap the music was too loud, don't know why we went.

It sounds so familiar. Pity it's shut down. I walked many a tacky carpet. The decor in places like that all seemed to begin to merge into browns.

I don't know Huddersfield so I'll leave the pre-match pub to you. I'm sure my brothers will be wanting some refreshments beforehand.

prendrelemick

06-15-2013, 07:29 AM

Your brothers might be more clued up than me. There're a couple of pubs by the railway station, but I'm getting ahead of myself, I'll have to see if I'm allowed out to play first

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-15-2013, 09:23 AM

Gill, I actually own a T-shirt like this:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image-2_zps0ec94a3d.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image-2_zps0ec94a3d.jpg.html)

I bought it a few years ago at DFW Airport. Later I wore it to a Dickey's Barbecue Restaurant and got a very negative reaction from the cook. She said, "No! Uh-uh! Get out!" So I went to Taco Bell instead. They didn't care.

Haha!
I'd imagine thare's a little road kill in Taco Bell "beef", still tastes pretty good after a hangover.

How 'bout sundried Jack Rabbit wafers, tenderized by a thousand Firestones freshly peeled from I-20 west of Abilene?
In the words of Jed Clampett: "Mmmmmm dogies!"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3Y65_aEpxo

A pint would be good. Our old-meeting-up-before-a-match-in-Hudds pub has closed this year, The Somerset Arms, possibly the worst dive in Hudderfield, I'll never forget that carpet, it was probably once cheerfully patterned but had become a sticky brown morass smeared across the floor with the adhesive qualities of those post-it notes. When you walked on it your shoes made a tacky noise. The beer was crap the music was too loud, don't know why we went.

Hey, that'd be real nice if you two could hook up.
If not we'll have a pint anyhow.

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-16-2013, 08:55 AM

Happy Father's Day to the Bloke dad's or to your father's or father's father.

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_CaprockCanyons06_08011_zps75c50549.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/Misc%20Album/CaprockCanyons06_08011_zps75c50549.jpg.html)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Family%20History/th_FatherWWIIPilotstudiophoto.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/Family%20History/FatherWWIIPilotstudiophoto.jpg.html)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Family%20History/th_GrandfatherWWIstudiophoto.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/Family%20History/GrandfatherWWIstudiophoto.jpg.html)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Family%20History/th_ConnectingGang.jpg (http://s963.photobucket.com/user/tabuka1/media/Family%20History/ConnectingGang.jpg.html)

Paulclem

06-17-2013, 06:25 PM

Your brothers might be more clued up than me. There're a couple of pubs by the railway station, but I'm getting ahead of myself, I'll have to see if I'm allowed out to play first

I understand. I don't go out enough to need to ask - yet. My other brother has been talking about us going to watch some cage fighting, or boxing.

Perhaps we'll realise a blokes international get together some day.

Nice pics Gil.

prendrelemick

06-18-2013, 02:34 AM

It's looking good so far, I'm getting up a small party (trying to find a volunteer driver really) for the match, but most people don't know what they're doing next week, never mind November.

According to the Son in law "The Head Of Steam" is actually part of the railway station and has a decent pint- Tetleys and real ales. It may be good for our meet up though its been crowded when I've been there on a match day before. There's another pub close by though, both are on St Georges Square, as is The George Hotel where Rugby League was invented.

The Atheist

06-21-2013, 04:01 AM

Paulclem

06-21-2013, 04:44 AM

Paulclem

06-21-2013, 04:47 AM

Here we are on the shortest day of the year, blasted by a southern storm, but there's still a light at the end of the tunnel - the days get longer from now on!

I'm having a hot Irish coffee to help me warm up.

Working well!

Here, on the longest day, I always make a point of mentioning that it's downhill to winter and the nights are now drawing in again.

Ecurb

06-21-2013, 11:55 AM

Here, on the longest day, I always make a point of mentioning that it's downhill to winter and the nights are now drawing in again.

"Lhude sing Goddamn,” -- Ezra Pound

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-22-2013, 08:06 AM

I'm on the top half with Paul,
over the hump on the downhill run.
The days are getting shorter.
Get a hot cuppa schnapps for the shortening sun.

The Atheist

06-25-2013, 12:31 PM

And just like that, it's almost a week past the shortest day - summer here we come!

Luckily - and completely unlike the northern half of the world - the weather is being kind to us thus far.

I could still use that schnapps, Gill!

Paulclem

06-28-2013, 06:35 AM

Roll on the restive weekend. Things are hotting up horribly at work wih the frantic, feverish and frustrating chase for exams and results. I've also got an intensely itchy case of alliteritis.

The Atheist

06-29-2013, 09:28 PM

There's a cream for that.

prendrelemick

06-30-2013, 03:14 AM

Cold cream can control the condition !

Sancho

06-30-2013, 08:45 PM

Antihistamines always help with allergies, but rarely relieve rashes.

Gilliatt Gurgle

06-30-2013, 10:40 PM

Down here we refer to any type of cream as salve.
Typically one salve serves all purposes whether it be for that little ladies face or where a chunk of ear was torn from your Tabby in a tussle with a Tomcat.

prendrelemick

07-02-2013, 02:51 AM

It's Wimbers again and The Teutonic Goddess, Sabine Lisicki has just mercilessly thrashed tournament favourite, Gruntin' Serena Williams. Can anyone stop her now? No one thrashes balls quite like the magnificent Sabine.

That smooth legged and pleasingly pert, pint-sized English rose, Laura Robson, succumbed in the usual lady-like fashion - there were tears.

Also, some men played some tennis too.

The Atheist

07-02-2013, 04:32 PM

Gosh, I thought all UK would be a lather by now on the Scotty left in the draw with the two big men MIA.

prendrelemick

07-02-2013, 05:23 PM

No no. The womens game is where it's at. It's loads better than the blokes' . Just watched the chubby Bartoli get through to the semi's. She has an unusual body shape for a top player- shall we say rotund- It's great to see her wiping the floor with the model clone contenders.

The Atheist

07-03-2013, 05:55 AM

Have they banned grunting yet?

I think it was Sharapova ruined women's tennis for me. I used to enjoy watching Steffi Graf run around, but this constant grunting like a pig at a trough gives me the screaming ****s.

prendrelemick

07-05-2013, 06:30 PM

Well I think it is a dream final, much better than the same old, same old. Teutonic Goddess Sabine against the portly Marianne Bartoli, who is one of "those" players who can beat anyone on her day. I think Sabine will win, the way she smacks those balls is made for wimbledon. But Bartoli keeps suprising us.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-05-2013, 06:37 PM

I haven't been following the tennis, but I just might pay attention to this match since, as you say, it's not the same ole same ole.
I'll second the question; are either of the two of the grunting banshee types?

prendrelemick

07-06-2013, 02:40 AM

You may chance to hear the odd unguarded exclaimation of effort on Centre Court today it's true. But the two contending Queens of the Grunt are out. I think the Sour faced Sharapova's confident squeal beats the masculine Serena's more breathy girly effort by a couple of decibels. But to be honest when their tennis years are over, either one of them could walk into a job dubbing soundtracks for the adult film industry.

prendrelemick

07-06-2013, 09:48 AM

Well the nerves have got Sabine big time, Bartoli is looking like a playground bully at the moment. Cruel.

The crowd are trying to lift her but she's gone, She's looking for a place to hide.

Hang on whats this! A late late revival?

Too late. Bartoli wins and deserves it. It was her aggression that caused Lisicki to crumble. I thought for a moment she was going to burst into tears in the middle of the match there. She never managed to hit those balls in her usual Teutonic Goddess way.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-06-2013, 10:24 AM

I just now turned it on.
The camera panned in on each of them eating during a break.
The full figured one seems to be in control at the moment.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-06-2013, 10:39 AM

Sabine started to make it interesting in the second set.
I was just starting to get into it, forgetting that the women's matches are shorter, that's too bad, it was a nice change from the wailing and grunting.

prendrelemick

07-06-2013, 11:04 AM

It was a soap opera out there!

The Atheist

07-06-2013, 03:21 PM

The tennis is not on at the friendliest time for those of us up this end, so I didn't see any of that.

No mention of the magnificent Lions?

Storming victory!

prendrelemick

07-07-2013, 02:13 AM

The Atheist

07-07-2013, 04:33 AM

It was, you are right. But Sky have the rights so the vast majority don't get a glimpse over here.

I never saw that coming. Gattling? was being lined up for shooting down in the Britpress for dropping some old Irish codger. But well done to him for making 6 changes, it goes to show he knows the game better than some reporters do.

How are the AllBlacks? Can they give us a game?

I see Gatland said he didn't even feel like celebrating, the abuse over O'Driscoll had been so bad.

I wish the ABs could have a game against them. In that form, it would be a great game.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-12-2013, 10:02 PM

Melanie

07-13-2013, 06:20 AM

Knock, knock. Cigar? Cigarettes? Tiparillos? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDGzd2HcEpo

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-13-2013, 09:09 AM

Knock, knock. Cigar? Cigarettes? Tiparillos? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDGzd2HcEpo

Welcome to the camp I guess...sorry I was suddenly reciting uncle Ernie. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42JIf-ntJkM

I preferred Swisher Sweets myself after transitioning from smoking Grapevine stems in the woods with my buddies.

Melanie

07-13-2013, 11:19 AM

Thank you for the welcome but I was but I was just passing through to offer some titillating bloke treats..."Cigars, Cigarettes, Tiparillos?". Afterall, what's a bloke gathering without a girly visit. So here's your Swisher Sweet cigar in blueberry. Pardon my manners if I licked it a little, yum. I wouldn't think of lingering in this closed gathering of blokes, and wouldn't want to tassle, I mean hassle anyone. So I'll just keep abreast of the conversation from outside the room. Cheers!

prendrelemick

07-13-2013, 11:25 AM

Cheeky!

stlukesguild

07-13-2013, 11:29 PM

Just got back from my older daughter's wedding on the beach in the Outer Banks, North Carolina:

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_0997_zpsf776cf60.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_0997_zpsf776cf60.jpg.html)

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_1151_zps8829ef72.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_1151_zps8829ef72.jpg.html)

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_2627_zpsd8dc4ee9.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_2627_zpsd8dc4ee9.jpg.html)

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_2635_zpsebcce95e.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_2635_zpsebcce95e.jpg.html)

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_2638_zpse18dba6d.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_2638_zpse18dba6d.jpg.html)

http://i1245.photobucket.com/albums/gg581/StlukesguildOhio/th_IMG_1578_zps36626f25.jpg (http://s1245.photobucket.com/user/StlukesguildOhio/media/IMG_1578_zps36626f25.jpg.html)

After a good 600-700 mile drive back home we decided to stretch the vacation out to one more day... heading out to our favorite Mexican restaurant and two or three Margaritas each. Now I'm sitting with a glass of Tequilla listening to Hank Williams!:cheers2:

The Atheist

07-14-2013, 06:26 AM

Whoa, that's going back a ways.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-14-2013, 07:58 AM

Cheeky!

and frisky!

Just got back from my older daughter's wedding on the beach in the Outer Banks, North Carolina:...

....After a good 600-700 mile drive back home

Congratulations dad!

Whoa, that's going back a ways.

Nah, for us 600 to 700 miles is just a jaunt down to McGrady's trad'n post to grab some flower and a stick of licorice for the yung'ns.

stlukesguild

07-14-2013, 01:20 PM

Indeed. New York City's 550 miles and I try to visit at least once a year.

Paulclem

07-14-2013, 07:22 PM

Random bits for a Friday night.
First, an overdue congrats to Andy Murray. I'm out of Drambuie, so I'll raise my Stout.

We managed to get my son through University orientation and registration. A new era begins. He plans to study physics and master in Industrial Engineering. It will be a tough row to hoe, but if it's true that smarts skip a generation, then hopefully he inherited some of my dad's brains, cause he sure ain't getting it from me!

Where's Paul?

I recently discovered Charo can play the guitar http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_McDOa6TOfg

Hi Gil - just been busy busy. I'm measuring my time off in hours rather than days. We've had trouble with the elderlies - one in hospital and one freshly into a nursing home - the third feeling neglected.

On the positive side, the lad got back from Japan after 9 months away. He seems cooler than he did - perhaps it was the friends he made from the US. He currently looks like Jesus, with the long hair and beard, and so my wife obliged by writing it on a piece of card at the airport when she went to meet him.

Good news about your lad Gil. It sounds as though he'll be set up if he likes he course.

The Atheist

07-15-2013, 04:10 PM

That got screwed up; I was on a different page! The long way back I meant was the cigar ad.

In terms of driving down here, if you drive 600 miles from anywhere in New Zealand, you'd better be driving a Sea-legs (http://www.sealegs.com/).

Parky down here today at -1C. Lovely day ahead, though, as it's fine & frosty.

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-15-2013, 10:57 PM

...He currently looks like Jesus, with the long hair and beard, and so my wife obliged by writing it on a piece of card at the airport when she went to meet him.

Haha took me a moment to pick up on the card - a ride for Jesus.

...In terms of driving down here, if you drive 600 miles from anywhere in New Zealand, you'd better be driving a Sea-legs (http://www.sealegs.com/).

Parky down here today at -1C. Lovely day ahead, though, as it's fine & frosty.

Sea Legs looks like fun, not at -1C though.

Paulclem

07-24-2013, 04:01 PM

Just a few days to the hols. I can't wait. We have nothing planned - which is great. I hope to do my allotment - it's a bit weedy at the moment, read more and hopefully check out a cycle path to Kenilworth from Coventry.

Also next term I'm located in a different office, which has far fewer classrooms and is much quieter. The job will be very different.

The Atheist

07-24-2013, 10:37 PM

Sounds excellent!

I must try to have a holiday myself this year.

Paulclem

07-27-2013, 02:53 PM

Well, the holiday has begun, and so has a downpour. The veggies need it, but it is somewhat heavy.

I had a couple of pear ciders with the lad last night whilst he told me about what he got up to in Japan. I'm glad he's loosened up a bit. He's discovered the joys of listening to music whilst imbibing. We share quite a few tastes, which is nice. We were watching a compilation of The Old Grey Whistle Test, and he was particularly taken with Captain Beefheart.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dq6fCOGyVJg

The Atheist

07-27-2013, 09:59 PM

I hear the best thing for the summer hols is an ark, this year.

Hope it comes right for you!

cafolini

07-27-2013, 11:30 PM

Noahle is coming for its sake?

Gilliatt Gurgle

07-28-2013, 09:21 AM

Noah drank sake?

----

Paul, where did we leave off with the greenhouse?
Is it completed?
Sounds like a nice moment in time; imbibing with Beefheart.

Paulclem

07-28-2013, 03:07 PM

Yes - we'll see about the summer.

As for the greenhouse - there lies a tale.

I now have a greenhouse on my plot near the shed, but it isn't the one I lugged down there. It's a pop up one, which has tomatoes growing in it.

The reason for this is I'm moving plots. Yes, I'm leaving the shed for another - though I am also keeping the plot with the fallout shelter on it. The other committee members offered me a very well kept plot which will mean that I can easily manage it whilst fulfilling my committee duties. This new plot has forty or so raised beds which are easy to maintain. I also wanted to keep one of the two half plots I have and so I am giving up the one with the fantastic shed so that Steve - my neighbour on the other side to Fred - can have another half. All of which leaves me with an easily moveable pop up greenhouse, and a meccano greenhouse that is still in pieces. As the new, well maintained plot already has a glass greenhouse, then it will mean I have a plastic greenhouse going spare. I think I'll donate it to the committee who can sell it to a willing plotholder... and everyone will be happy.

The Atheist

07-29-2013, 05:02 PM

prendrelemick

08-01-2013, 03:08 AM

Raised beds and shedding sheds!

And now The Cricket.-

Well, The Ashes cricket series comes to Old Trafford today with England only needing a draw to retain them. I thought trouncing the Aussies would be alot more fun than this, but they are not so tough any more. They have decent bowlers but they lack an Alan Border or Steve Waugh in the batting line up and are generous to a fault when it comes to giving away their wickets. OK they gave us a scare at Trent Bridge but that was an individual fluke, with Agar batting at 11 hitting a record 98 runs .

Yorkshire's Joe Root looks the real deal, (we've known about him for some time up here - and we have a couple more like him in the pipeline) and don't be fooled by him looking about 13 he has plenty of grit. At Lords there was a palpable disappointment when he went from 64 to 68 as the barmy army were waiting for a chance to sing Root 66 - next time maybe.

The most talked about aspect has been the appeals that are now allowed against the Umpires' decisions. The Australians have been useing them up too quickly. and nearly always wrongly - they just can't believe they are out! The Umpires can't seem to make a decision anymore, it's a bit of a mess and I don't think it has reduced mistakes at all. Dickie Bird used to get the odd one wrong but he was never afraid to raise his finger or turn down a screaming bowler - he knew his opinion was the only one that counted and that impartiality was the key. There's a story about him telling off a bemused Merv Hughes for swearing at a batsman (Merv hated Batsmen-especially English ones) - after the gentle lecture, Merve said "Dickie, you're a ******* Legend!". That's respect.

The Atheist

08-01-2013, 05:28 AM

I imagine it will be another easy victory; Australia seem to have come down to our level.

I'm just not a fan of third umpires in cricket - the game isn't perfect, and if some decisions are wrong, they even out over time and the human element adds to the game rather than detracts from it.

prendrelemick

08-01-2013, 03:06 PM

Well, well! Australia looking like a different side today, it was toe to toe stuff for a couple of sessions, but they didn't crumble and then pulled away after tea - just like the old days. Michael Clarke, their captain and best player, scoring a century and wearing out Anderson and Broad, who were hailed as world beating bowlers only last week.
Make no mistake there was some good bowling out there today, the ball flying past the edge again and again, but the batsman rode their luck and got on top. They are set for a big score. England need to believe they can find way to win and show some resolve. But at 300 for 3, Australia shouldn't lose this one.

But the umpiring needs sorting, every appeal they are looking like a rabbit in the headlights - too scared of being seen to be wrong, unable to make a decision.

The Atheist

08-01-2013, 08:40 PM

It's going to be a pretty daunting total set up. Is the pitch tame, or have the Aussies learnt to bat during the week?

Gilliatt Gurgle

08-01-2013, 08:43 PM

Gilliatt!

Have you been up in BC lately?

Bigfoot in Canada (http://www.news.com.au/technology/sci-tech/hikers-capture-footage-of-mysterious-8216bigfoot8217-figure-in-the-canadian-wilderness/story-fn5fsgyc-1226687343311)

It has been many years since I was in BC, but it's good to know 'ole Squatch is still ambling around up there.
I still keep my Sasquatch field guide handy (signed by Dr. Jeff Meldrum no less)
Thanks for the heads up! That's some amazing footage.

I ran across this footage of an actual Bigfoot attack... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEFFrvv0b5Q

...Make no mistake there was some good bowling out there today, the ball flying past the edge again and again, but the batsman rode their luck and got on top...

I'm still trying to figure this game out.
They must be swingin some mighty big bats to knock a bowling ball around like that!

The Atheist

08-01-2013, 09:06 PM

I ran across this footage of an actual Bigfoot attack... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pEFFrvv0b5Q

Thanks for that - it is a work of pure genius!

I love the blood spurting at the end. Legendary.

prendrelemick

08-02-2013, 02:54 AM

It's going to be a pretty daunting total set up. Is the pitch tame, or have the Aussies learnt to bat during the week?

It looks like they've learnt to bat.

It's a typical test pitch, a bit there for the bowlers in the morning -a noticeable uneven bounce, then it settled down and dried out. The bowling deserved a couple more wickets though. It will crumble, I think, and the footmarks are coming along nicely. England will not relish having to bat last on it - probably to save the game.

I love cricket it so...... deep.

The Atheist

08-03-2013, 05:15 AM

Looks like your boys are trying to make it very hard for themselves.

Interesting day in prospect.

prendrelemick

08-03-2013, 03:39 PM

We aint gonna win. But we aint lost yet!

The whole thing could be decided in the first hour's play. If Australia gets 3 wickets before England get 33 runs, they will probably win this test match.

If not, England avoid the follow on and can "force" a draw and retain the Ashes.

stlukesguild

08-03-2013, 09:09 PM

My local grocery store has started carrying this... one of the finest from a regional micro-brewery:

http://justbeer.files.wordpress.com/2009/11/southern-tier-creme-brulee.gif

It is definitely a dessert beer... tasting like butterscotch and coffee... perfect with a slice of chocolate cake, but a bit too heavy to drink more than one (or perhaps two)... and at nearly 10% alcohol, you won't need to.

Hawkman

08-04-2013, 06:41 AM

A fitting beverage for a Byzantine emperor; one stop down from Ambrosia :D

prendrelemick

08-04-2013, 02:57 PM

From my, head-in-the-sand old git all change is wrong even though I've never tried them, perspective NO! Dessert beers are just wrong!

The Atheist

08-04-2013, 08:20 PM

Haha!

You owe it to yourself to at least try.

We aint gonna win. But we aint lost yet!

The weather gods are shining on you, but I think getting well past the follow-on showed that they probably could have salvaged it regardless.

My local grocery store has started carrying this... one of the finest from a regional micro-brewery:

Love the colour! I'd be at that like a robber's dog - it looks delicious, and drinking it while eating chocolate cake is something I definitely have to try.

You might have to send me a bottle.

prendrelemick

08-05-2013, 08:45 AM

Here we go! England turned up this morning not expecting to have to bat because of rain. And it shows. Australia expected to lose, but the weather gods have handed them a chance - and it shows too, they are grabbing at it like drowning men clutching at straws.

7 more wickets needed to keep the series alive, the pitch damp and unpredictable, some rain probable, the Aussies desperate and in last chance saloon. The pressure, the pressure. I wish I was there.

Afterwards The DRS needs to be dropped. It is just no good, the technology isn't ready and is beset by arbitary rules. Peterson was given out LBW in the first innings when there was a Hot Spot on his bat, and given caught in the second innings when there wasn't! And he isn't the only one who has had a raw deal. I think both sides and the Umpires are sick of it.

The Atheist

08-05-2013, 02:50 PM

Not much to add to that - I agree with every word.

The next one will be interesting. Will England turn up?

I think there's more chance of a very angry Aussie side turning up.

Paulclem

08-05-2013, 04:15 PM

The Atheist

08-07-2013, 06:18 AM

And on the subject of dodgy umpiring calls: http://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/cricket/9015005/Australia-England-in-DRS-cheating-claims

Get rid of it now.

prendrelemick

08-07-2013, 05:29 PM

I reckon Hotspot is doomed, though the snickometer and hawkeye seem to function ok - and the run out replay. That said, I agree, You can still have all that Hi-tech stuff for the media to witter on about if they like, but leave the real umpiring to the umpires. It is the Umpires honest OPINION that should count, nothing else.

prendrelemick

08-13-2013, 01:10 PM

The 4th test was the best so far, a close match that swung this way and that. the Austrailians found themselves in the driving seat for most of the game but England managed to hang on and were able to peg them back. Come the last innings The Aussies needed 299 to win and a draw was no good for them - they had to go for it and they were going well, until Stuart Broad took up the ball and had one of the best spells I can ever remember seeing. He stepped up to another level and got 5 wickets for 20 runs in 45 balls - watching the highlights I don't know how they managed to get those 20 runs!

Then came the final drama. The game was gone but the Ausssies were holding on and had one wicket left, bad light had forced England to play 2 ineffectual spinners, they had also claimed an extra half hour to try to get a result. Then with 15 minutes to go a low shaft of sunlight found its way under the cloud to shine upon Chester le street. Cook immediatly tossed the ball to Broad, and 4 deliveries later it was all over.

Broad has done this sort of thing before He once took 5 wickets including a hat trick in 16 balls for no runs against India. But this was The Ashes!

Paulclem

08-13-2013, 01:31 PM

I'm glad England won, but not being of the cricketing mind, I'm glad the premiership starts again on Saturday. I've enjoyed the cycling, watched a bit of rugby and seen some good athletics, but the week in week out drama of the league is really great.

Gilliatt Gurgle

08-13-2013, 08:35 PM

Here's to "wickets" and "spinners", though I've no clue what they are.
Congrats to England and Ashes.

Paul, tell me about this "premiership" are we talking about darts by chance?

prendrelemick

08-14-2013, 02:47 AM

Cheers GG!

The Boy went to a Giants vs Marlins match a couple of months ago in San Fransisco (that's Baseball) . He reports 4 hours of total bamboozalment.

Paulclem

08-14-2013, 06:21 PM

Paul, tell me about this "premiership" are we talking about darts by chance?

My Mum and Dad used to watch darts on TV, which I found as tedious as snooker. Gah.

The Premiership though is the weekly football games played by the top clubs in the Premier Football League. After watching it for a while I got to know the managers and players, noted the annual change of players and clubs, enjoyed the drama of the drop where two clubs are relegated to League one - thus losing all the TV sponsorship money which is a very big deal for them and the fans, and enjoy the skill of the players and the inevitable mistakes and events that all add to the rich tapestry of football life.

I like it because we have "Match of the Day" on one of our TV channels - BBC 1. It shows highlights of all the Premiership matches that day, with the most interesting one first. It comes on the TV at 10.30pm, which means I usually have control of the tv and can watch at leisure - something I can't do with the rugby as it is on earlier. And it kicks off on Saturday. Woo hoo.

http://www.premierleague.com/en-gb.html

Paulclem

08-14-2013, 06:22 PM

Cheers GG!

The Boy went to a Giants vs Marlins match a couple of months ago in San Fransisco (that's Baseball) . He reports 4 hours of total bamboozalment.

It bamboozles me too. Cricket less so - because I played it at school and with my mates.

The Atheist

08-14-2013, 11:57 PM

Yes indeed, a great result!

I still can't believe Australia lost from the position they were in.

Kudos to a great England team.

prendrelemick

08-21-2013, 04:29 PM

Right, 5th test, The Oval . This time surely Australia cannot lose from this position (307 for 4). Like the last test there has been a lot of unrewarded good bowling, The pitch is a batting pitch if ever there was one and England must have known what was to come when they lost the toss and had to bowl on the first day with only two specialist seamers. They are missing the injured Tim Bresnan who can charge in and bang the ball down on a line and lengh all day long, he would've tied up one end and allowed the superstars do all their "duel in the sun" stuff at the other. The two England debutants Kerrigan and Woakes were ineffectual with the ball, infact Kerrigan had an absolute nightmare as Watson went after him. I'm pleased for Shane Watson, going on and getting his century at last, a great innings, but he does play across the line a little too often.

The Atheist

08-21-2013, 04:43 PM

Yep, from what I've seen, it looks like a batsman's paradise.

Just how easy it is will no doubt be told in the next innings.

prendrelemick

08-23-2013, 02:30 AM

The England selectors seem to have outwitted themselves here. The bowling attack looked very thin. The two new boys got only one wicket for 153 between them. Anderson got a fivefor but he looks tired. Anyway perhaps they will be vindicated by the supposed stiffening of the batting line up and the extra spin option later in the match. But the game may have already gone.

The Atheist

08-23-2013, 04:37 AM

I can't see England being too unhappy about things as they stand - they've blooded a couple of n00bs on what appears to be a batsmen's paradise, and now get the chance to see if England can bat for two days.

Amidst all the hype about the wonderful Australian batting effort, it seems to me that 500 in five sessions on a dolly against a new bowling attack isn't anything to write home about.

Then the silly season starts!

prendrelemick

08-24-2013, 03:02 AM

The hype over here is about the negativity of England's effort, and I'm afraid they have a point. 3-0 up with one to play and too afraid of losing to try and win. BUT the Aussies did what we couldn't yesterday and kept the pressure on with some good bowling and aggressive field setting. The England team/coach/captain/batsmen forgot it was a good pitch and went right into their shell - which in turn allowed the bowlers to do as they liked.

Anyway, this morning we have the in form Ian Bell at the crease with new boy Woakes - who was picked as a batsman who can bowl. The selectors have been saying (quite rightly) wait and see. Today we'll see.

The Atheist

08-24-2013, 09:00 PM

Or you could have the entire day rained out.

I don't think you can read much into this test, other than a reason why dead tests are a bit pointless.

The Atheist

08-25-2013, 04:21 PM

Crikey!

That was not what I expected to read this morning. What a final day - with England almost managing to destroy every bookie in the land. Surely, the bookies prayed to the cloud gods to extract the draw in this one.

Did you watch, Mick? Must have been an amazing day's play.

prendrelemick

08-25-2013, 04:43 PM

Noooo! I missed it, we had visitors - I wasn't too bothered it could only be a draw -I thought. The boy shouted me in just in time to see the last two overs. I couldn't believe they stopped it!

Paulclem

08-25-2013, 05:38 PM

I missed the Challenge Cup Final on Saturday due to responsibilities. I haven't been able to watch one for years. Still - the footie's on again tomorrow night.

prendrelemick

08-26-2013, 03:19 AM

I'm enjoying the footie as well - the actual games, not the hyper-bollox circus that surrounds it.

Last word on the Cricket. On the last day, it was the Aussies who reminded us what Cricket and sport in general is all about (or should be). England approached the game not wanting to lose but not trying to win. Their slow over rate was a disgrace. and their defensive first innings was too negative. A truly great team would've seen the situation after the first day as a chance to show how good they are, and turn it around. So well done Australia for allowing a chance for a result and giving the spectators and fans something back.

The Atheist

08-26-2013, 06:16 PM

Last word on the Cricket. On the last day, it was the Aussies who reminded us what Cricket and sport in general is all about (or should be). England approached the game not wanting to lose but not trying to win. Their slow over rate was a disgrace. and their defensive first innings was too negative. A truly great team would've seen the situation after the first day as a chance to show how good they are, and turn it around. So well done Australia for allowing a chance for a result and giving the spectators and fans something back.

Well said.

Without the very sporting declaration, the game would have trailed away to nothing. I hadn't noticed they declared on Nelson! Classic Aussie trick.

prendrelemick

08-28-2013, 03:30 AM

yeah I wondered about that. I think Clark would've liked a few more runs but couldn't resist 111.

Paulclem

09-06-2013, 05:27 PM

We had our first allotment Barbie last Sunday - I'm amazed that they hadn't had one before. We had about 70-80 people come along. The weather was nice, we had four barbies going and we had lots of food and drink. People took home the food, and the drink - most of it bought with funds - has migrated to the allotment shop. We might do an offer - compost and a free can - but probably not. I think we'll be ok up to Christmas. Woo hoo!

The Atheist

09-06-2013, 10:15 PM

Well, I'm disgusted:

No invite to the party, no potatoes delivered to my place.

I'm beginning to think you don't love us any more!

Gilliatt Gurgle

09-08-2013, 12:30 PM

We had our first allotment Barbie last Sunday - I'm amazed that they hadn't had one before. We had about 70-80 people come along. The weather was nice, we had four barbies going and we had lots of food and drink...

If only I had known, you could have laid this gem on the allotment committee...
(My contribution to one of the poetry contest threads - recite to the tune of Simon and Garfunkel's Sounds of Silence)

Hello Weber my old friend
I’ve come to grill with you again
Charcoal briquettes are piled high
A gallon of fluid lights the sky

And the Hickory smoke that is wafting in my face
I embrace

I hold the tongs of power.

Brats are hot and start to swell
New York Strip is medium well
Shrimp on the grill are swimming
Glazed chicken legs are dancing

To the tune of the flashing briquettes light
That sparks the night.

I hold the tongs of power.

http://www.weber.com/grills/series/one-touch

prendrelemick

09-16-2013, 05:30 PM

Just back from my hols. A weekend in Bristol to visit daughter number three. She felt obliged to keep us entertained for every minute we were there and had set a punishing agenda. So after a five hour drive down (I hate the M6) we had a 10 minute rest in the B&B and then set off through Friday rush hour traffic to the other side of Bristol to meet her and her Handsome Man at Hugh Fearney-Whittingstall's Canteen. That was a 5 mile trip that took 1 and 1/2 hours. Anyway the food was dee-licious, and over fresh caught mackerel and mushrooms stuffed with smoked Pollock and cheese, she outlined her itinery for us.

We managed to avoid the 16 mile bike ride along a disused railway line, and settled for a walk round Bath, a walk up the Avon Gorge and across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Barn Dance and a visit to the SS Great Britain. Her Handsome Man was doing the Bristol half marathon on Sunday- At least she hadn't entered us for that.

The Atheist

09-16-2013, 06:42 PM

What, no pubs?

Sounds like a great time was had!

prendrelemick

09-17-2013, 03:05 AM

We went to a pub on Sunday and had the roast beef dinner, I think the cow had died of old age.

At the Barn Dance I was on "Barnsley dark bitter" and "The Dark Side", two beers from a local brewery- they were very nice, I was soon Reeling, Stripping the Willow and Promenading like a good un. http://www.bathales.com/our-ales/aid/dark-side/

The Atheist

09-18-2013, 04:25 AM

What the heck is that thing in your post? I can't make it open.

prendrelemick

09-18-2013, 12:28 PM

Scheherazade

09-18-2013, 12:46 PM

The link glitch is something to do with a cache issue. If you edit your post, it should be fixed.

The same thing works with signatures as well. Please edit them and it will go back to normal.

Hopefully.

Calidore

09-18-2013, 01:27 PM

prendrelemick

09-18-2013, 02:41 PM

How will GG manage without the Cold Ale Club's annual glimpse of Ms Welch in her pomp?

Gilliatt Gurgle

09-18-2013, 09:58 PM

How will GG manage without the Cold Ale Club's annual glimpse of Ms Welch in her pomp?

This is how...

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/b/b7/Raquel_Welch_in_deer-skin_bikini.jpg/330px-Raquel_Welch_in_deer-skin_bikini.jpg

The Atheist

09-18-2013, 11:31 PM

It was a link to some beer. Have your read the message this morning? Pictures that even hint at a shapely ankle are no longer to be tolerated! I think there is a clamp-down going on, and my beer link has fallen victim to the morality police.

In fact I can't see the link either and I posted it! It's so nice to know that that we have a gaurdian angel looking after our moral well being and making the choice for us as to what we can and can't see.

Yes, looks much better now.

The morality rule might make an appearance below!

This is how...

I can't even find the announcement now, but from what I saw, the photo will contravene the super-strict, new, no-bare-flesh rule.

I'm not sure why that would be the case, when the kind of photo above is considered safe for children in every other medium on the planet. I'll try to find out.

prendrelemick

09-19-2013, 02:27 AM

[QUOTE=Gilliatt Gurgle;1238655]This is how...

http://upload.wikimedia.org broken

Let's be clear, we must never look at the image above

Paulclem

09-19-2013, 04:50 PM

If only I had known, you could have laid this gem on the allotment committee...
(My contribution to one of the poetry contest threads - recite to the tune of Simon and Garfunkel's Sounds of Silence)

Hello Weber my old friend
I’ve come to grill with you again
Charcoal briquettes are piled high
A gallon of fluid lights the sky

And the Hickory smoke that is wafting in my face
I embrace

I hold the tongs of power.

Brats are hot and start to swell
New York Strip is medium well
Shrimp on the grill are swimming
Glazed chicken legs are dancing

To the tune of the flashing briquettes light
That sparks the night.

I hold the tongs of power.

http://www.weber.com/grills/series/one-touch

Excellent Gil. I can hear the tune as I'm reading it.

I didn't get this message. Am I exempted from the ruling then? I think it gives the Cold Ale thread a bit of... flavour.

Just back from my hols. A weekend in Bristol to visit daughter number three. She felt obliged to keep us entertained for every minute we were there and had set a punishing agenda. So after a five hour drive down (I hate the M6) we had a 10 minute rest in the B&B and then set off through Friday rush hour traffic to the other side of Bristol to meet her and her Handsome Man at Hugh Fearney-Whittingstall's Canteen. That was a 5 mile trip that took 1 and 1/2 hours. Anyway the food was dee-licious, and over fresh caught mackerel and mushrooms stuffed with smoked Pollock and cheese, she outlined her itinery for us.

We managed to avoid the 16 mile bike ride along a disused railway line, and settled for a walk round Bath, a walk up the Avon Gorge and across the Clifton Suspension Bridge, a Barn Dance and a visit to the SS Great Britain. Her Handsome Man was doing the Bristol half marathon on Sunday- At least she hadn't entered us for that.

:lol:

I was in Bristol on the 14th for the Uni open day with the daughter. It's a nice city - I've never been there before. We had the usual tour of the campus etc, and then my daughter wanted to look round the extensive shopping centre. I was quite impressed - especially with the size of the seagulls. They are much bigger than the ones we get on our field...

On the Sunday I had to take the lad's other bag down to Oxford for him. We had a nice lunch in the Goat's Head - I forget the exact name but I'll be able to find it again.

It seems ages since I've been on with the chaps - it's been a bit busy at work.

The Atheist

09-19-2013, 10:33 PM

Let's be clear, we must never look at the image above

I kept my eyes shut when I looked, so I'll be ok.

prendrelemick

09-20-2013, 03:38 AM

:lol:

I was in Bristol on the 14th for the Uni open day with the daughter. It's a nice city - I've never been there before. We had the usual tour of the campus etc, and then my daughter wanted to look round the extensive shopping centre. I was quite impressed - especially with the size of the seagulls. They are much bigger than the ones we get on our field...

On the Sunday I had to take the lad's other bag down to Oxford for him. We had a nice lunch in the Goat's Head - I forget the exact name but I'll be able to find it again.

It seems ages since I've been on with the chaps - it's been a bit busy at work.

Just missed you then, we were being force-marched around Bath on the 14th. It was half marathon weekend, uni open day, and Jane Austin festival weekend all at the same time, no wonder the place was heaving.

Gilliatt Gurgle

09-22-2013, 10:08 AM

Stopped by the re post Ms. Welch above.
Let's see if it gets past the paranormal screening.

prendrelemick

09-22-2013, 02:46 PM

Its gone! Help! help! I'm being repressed!

The Atheist

09-22-2013, 05:51 PM

There's an app for that.

Paulclem

09-23-2013, 05:40 PM

She's back!

Speaking of She, was it she in She?

No - just googled it. Ursula Andress.

Sancho

09-25-2013, 10:47 AM

We're gettin' the band back together, boys!

How about a harvest festival? Or in the case of The Atheist, a planting festival.

Gonna need one of these this time:

http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae197/mollyandbruno/image_zps74fc1b3d.jpg (http://s971.photobucket.com/user/mollyandbruno/media/image_zps74fc1b3d.jpg.html)

Everybody can use a little sax from time to time, eh?

...
No one watches when the ambulance pulls away
Or as the girl shuts out the bedroom light

Outside the streets on fire in a real death waltz
Between flesh and what's fantasy and the poets down here
Don't write nothing at all, they just stand back and let it all be
And in the quick of the night they reach for their moment
And try to make an honest stand but they wind up wounded, not even dead

Tonight in jungleland...

http://youtu.be/JR_0nbEzVdY

^From around 4:00 to 6:00 mins in that tune, Clarence rips into one of rock-n-roll's all-time great sax solos. (IMHO)

Gilliatt Gurgle

09-26-2013, 09:48 PM

We're gettin' the band back together, boys!

How about a harvest festival?...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7jeb_D08XA

Paulclem

09-27-2013, 05:05 PM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7jeb_D08XA

Good stuff Gil.

How's the lad doing? My wife was worried when ours first went. We'd dropped him off and there weren't many students around, and she was imagining him stuck in his room on his lonesome - probably weeping into his unconnected ether net cable. After a sleepless night she texted him and he happily told her that the contacts he'd made on the Facebook page had invited him to a club, where he's spent a while getting to know friends.

I slept like a log convinced that our sociability gene was still strong. So it was.

prendrelemick

09-30-2013, 03:15 AM

Well, its that time of year when every young shepherd's thoughts turns to tupping his sheep. I think I'm now sitting pretty with 3 top quality tups. I still have that pink tup I bought a couple of years back, and he has gone from strengh to strengh (though his colour is now a conventional mucky grey.) Then Fred my octogenarian neighbour is semi-retiring and I bought two of his tups - one is an absolute belter -AND I got them both for £100!!!!!! Fred is convinced they are both going to die this winter, but I got them home, trimmed their feet, wormed them, fluked them, dagged them out (don't ask,) gave them some antibiotics and multivitamins, then fed them some corn for a couple of weeks and they are looking full of vim and vigour.

That left me needing to buy just one more boy and a good budget as well. So on Saturday I was able to spend £500 pounds on a big strong tup from the same lady breeder my pink boy came from - only this time the pink dye had gone a bright orangey colour. Never-the-less he's a magnificent beast , the only qualm I have is that his testicles are more uneven than is usual in tups, but he is a proven and gauranteed sire. Driving home from market I was grinning like a cheshire cat. I've never done that before after spending 500 smackers.

Gilliatt Gurgle

09-30-2013, 06:35 PM

Good stuff Gil.

How's the lad doing? ...
...I slept like a log convinced that our sociability gene was still strong. So it was.

So far he seems to be doing fine.
While the Gurgles tend to be a bit more reclusive, Ryan has surprised us by quickly befriending at least three fellas he met during a howdy doody camp for entering freshmen.
btw Father claims that "Ryan" was his choice based on the Ryan aircraft company (Spirit of St. Louis and the PT-22 primary trainer) Mother claims credit as it refers to Ryan O'Neal - women...go figure.

Well, its that time of year when every young shepherd's thoughts turns to tupping his sheep....
...I think I'm now sitting pretty with 3 top quality tups. Driving home from market I was grinning like a cheshire cat. I've never done that before after spending 500 smackers.

Congratulations, sounds like some successful tupping!
Here's to successful siring and all that goes with it.
I remember Pink Tup.

The Atheist

09-30-2013, 09:43 PM

Driving home from market I was grinning like a cheshire cat. I've never done that before after spending 500 smackers.

Great story! Brings back some memories - I haven't spent time on a sheep farm for 35 years.

prendrelemick

10-01-2013, 02:11 AM

So far he seems to be doing fine.
While the Gurgles tend to be a bit more reclusive, Ryan has surprised us by quickly befriending at least three fellas he met during a howdy doody camp for entering freshmen.
btw Father claims that "Ryan" was his choice based on the Ryan aircraft company (Spirit of St. Louis and the PT-22 primary trainer) Mother claims credit as it refers to Ryan O'Neal - women...go figure.

Congratulations, sounds like some successful tupping!
Here's to successful siring and all that goes with it.
I remember Pink Tup.

I remember dropping my youngest off, I was all worried and emotional. She took a packet of Chocolate Hobnobs into her neighbour's room, and told us to go home.

I haven't spent time on a sheep farm for 35 years.

Very wise!

The Atheist

10-02-2013, 02:22 PM

Aaah, the sweet sound of morning...

The 4 yo wakes up, singing this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2AC41dglnM

Paulclem

10-20-2013, 04:31 PM

Life took over for a while there. Busy busy.

The Rugby League World Cup begins next week with England v Australia.

http://www.rlwc2013.com/fixtures

Are you still going to the England Ireland game Mick? We're travelling from York in the morning and stopping off in Wakey to pick up my other brother, and then onto Huddersfield. I'm looking forward to it.

prendrelemick

10-21-2013, 01:59 AM

Yep, I'm going. Arrangements still to be completed, but I think "The Head of Steam" which is actually in the Station, could be a good meet up venue. I'll PM you my mobile number.

The Atheist

10-22-2013, 02:29 AM

You could count me in but for the 20,000 km away from the venue.

Go England!

Paulclem

10-22-2013, 03:05 PM

Great Mick. I'll send you mine.

The Head of Steam sounds good.

Yes - 20,000 km - a bit far. If I become wealthy I'll organise a do. We could get Gil in on it then too.

Gilliatt Gurgle

10-25-2013, 07:26 PM

...Yes - 20,000 km - a bit far. If I become wealthy I'll organise a do. We could get Gil in on it then too.

Actually, I'm nearly there paddling in on my canoe, just about to pull into the port at Birkenhead.
Save me a seat.

stlukesguild

10-26-2013, 09:56 PM

As public education in the US implodes as Neo-Cons struggle desperately to maintain control against the increasing power of women, Hispanics, African Americans, Asians... and anyone not falling within the old ruling class of old white Anglo-Saxon Christian males teaching has become increasingly stressful and time consuming. If this were in the service of the learning and success of children perhaps it would not be half as bad... but the current efforts by Education leaders with no education experience, corporations who only see a great source of new revenue, and politicians with their heads firmly inserted in their backsides whose only interest is re-election and money are leading public education in the US into the sewer.

As a result... rather than spending my weekend in my studio working on my own art... I'm stuck writing learning objectives based upon "rigorous" standards and rubrics... in ART!!! No creativity... let alone critical thinking. One teacher who questioned the current push toward what is termed Common Core by a corporate consultant was told that her "thinking was dangerous".

Thus I'm slugging back more beers than I have in quite some years. At least its some good stuff. After getting started on a few hard ciders I moved on to Dragon's Milk Stout... some damn good stuff... and at 10% alcohol it really does the stuff:

http://bythepint.com/sites/default/files/images/new-holland-dragons-milk-review.preview.jpg

Waiting in the wings I have a few bottles of Samuel Smith Organic Chocolate Stout:

http://d2qdgu53yc9lue.cloudfront.net/deal/de_1674_lg.jpg

I'm downing these with a couple chocolate brownies accompanied (as usual) by the Rolling Stones.

prendrelemick

10-28-2013, 04:09 AM

Paulclem

10-28-2013, 09:07 PM

^You think that's bad, we have Michael Gove.

Meanwhile The Rugby league world cup is up and running. The Big match was England - Australia played in Wales!!!!???? The idiots are well and truly in charge. I missed the match because of sheep. I hate sheep.

ps. We lost.

Those who are canoeing (or railwaying) to Huddersfield for the Ireland match, I hope to be in the Head of Steam in front of a Tetleys around 1.00pm

Yes - the incomparable Mr Gove. He's from the wrong era.

We're now meeting in Leeds at 11.30 in Wetherspoons, and then travelling on to Huddersfield. We will come to the Head of Steam when we arrive.

prendrelemick

10-29-2013, 12:39 PM

Hmm, just heard it is a sell out - I may be setting off a bit earlier. That traffic over Ainley Top can be a nightmare.

Mine's a pint by the way Paul.

Paulclem

10-29-2013, 02:03 PM

Hmm, just heard it is a sell out - I may be setting off a bit earlier. That traffic over Ainley Top can be a nightmare.

Mine's a pint by the way Paul.

No problem. Tetleys I presume.

Paulclem

11-01-2013, 09:30 AM

I'm waiting for my brother to pick me up in the next hour or so. It should be good.

I'm coming back overnight on the coach from Leeds - via Manchester on Sunday morning. It'll be interesting.

Gilliatt Gurgle

11-01-2013, 10:25 PM

As public education in the US implodes as Neo-Cons struggle desperately to maintain control against the increasing power of women, Hispanics, African Americans, Asians... and anyone not falling within the old ruling class of old white Anglo-Saxon Christian males teaching has become increasingly stressful and time consuming. ...

http://bythepint.com/sites/default/files/images/new-holland-dragons-milk-review.preview.jpg

Waiting in the wings I have a few bottles of Samuel Smith Organic Chocolate Stout:

http://d2qdgu53yc9lue.cloudfront.net/deal/de_1674_lg.jpg

I'm downing these with a couple chocolate brownies accompanied (as usual) by the Rolling Stones.

In time you learn it is all futile and find yourself leaning on a decrepit fence over looking a creek staring up into the canopy of trees trying to make out a constellation between leaves, drinking whatever you can get your hands on, in a desperate attempt to ease your bad addled brain.

That stuff looks like it would do well as a cutting oil on my drill press !

...just about to pull into the port at Birkenhead.
Save me a seat.

No problem. Tetleys I presume.

Sorry I missed you last week, I ran aground at the Isle of Man.
I'll make up for my tardiness with 3 gallons of Night Train.

I'm catching the magic bus to Leeds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3Y64dpZGnE

Paulclem

11-03-2013, 03:34 PM

In time you learn it is all futile and find yourself leaning on a decrepit fence over looking a creek staring up into the canopy of trees trying to make out a constellation between leaves, drinking whatever you can get your hands on, in a desperate attempt to ease your bad addled brain.

That stuff looks like it would do well as a cutting oil on my drill press !

Sorry I missed you last week, I ran aground at the Isle of Man.
I'll make up for my tardiness with 3 gallons of Night Train.

I'm catching the magic bus to Leeds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p3Y64dpZGnE

I had a cracking day on Saturday. I set off with my brother and his mate Steve into York. We were dropped off to catch the train, but managed a jar before we got on. In Leeds we met my other brother and another mate, and we proceeded to Huddersfield after quaffing an appropriate pint.

We got into The Head of Steam in Huddersfield at about 12.45, and Mick came in later. It was nice to meet him, and we had a bit of a chat. The bar was heaving at this time so his crew got off towards the ground whilst we stayed on for a bit longer.

The match was good in that we won 42-nil but we scored in the first couple of minutes, and so it looked like it would be a bit of a walkover.

After we quaffed in Huddersfield and Leeds before I went on to Wakefield with my second brother. We had a Chinese buffet meal, and then I went back to Leeds and caught the bus to Manchester and then Birmingham and finally Coventry. Unfortunately the bus wasn't magic, and I had a 2 hour gap in Manchester, but I did see a the Mancunian revellers squabbling outside the nightclub next to the bus station, which passed 10 minutes.

I got back at 9 this morning, but had to retire for a few hours. We fancy another do in March next year. Woo hoo.

The Atheist

11-03-2013, 04:08 PM

prendrelemick

11-03-2013, 04:40 PM

I had a cracking day on Saturday. I set off with my brother and his mate Steve into York. We were dropped off to catch the train, but managed a jar before we got on. In Leeds we met my other brother and another mate, and we proceeded to Huddersfield after quaffing an appropriate pint.

We got into The Head of Steam in Huddersfield at about 12.45, and Mick came in later. It was nice to meet him, and we had a bit of a chat. The bar was heaving at this time so his crew got off towards the ground whilst we stayed on for a bit longer.

The match was good in that we won 42-nil but we scored in the first couple of minutes, and so it looked like it would be a bit of a walkover.

After we quaffed in Huddersfield and Leeds before I went on to Wakefield with my second brother. We had a Chinese buffet meal, and then I went back to Leeds and caught the bus to Manchester and then Birmingham and finally Coventry. Unfortunately the bus wasn't magic, and I had a 2 hour gap in Manchester, but I did see a the Mancunian revellers squabbling outside the nightclub next to the bus station, which passed 10 minutes.

I got back at 9 this morning, but had to retire for a few hours. We fancy another do in March next year. Woo hoo.

I had a good day too, nice to meet you and your brothers, Paul. I apologise for being late,(traffic) and leaving early - Our Steve (designated driver and Hudderfield rat run expert) was under the impression that the game started at 2.00 and hussled us out of there a bit quick. The only quaffing I got in was down at the John Smith's Stadium where you couldn't get Tetleys, so we paid twice as much for an inferior pint or three. The game was always going to be one sided but the atmosphere was great, we were shouting for Ireland to score by the end. Then it was home through more traffic and a magnificent thunderstorm in time to feed up.

Paulclem

11-05-2013, 08:04 PM

I had a good day too, nice to meet you and your brothers, Paul. I apologise for being late,(traffic) and leaving early - Our Steve (designated driver and Hudderfield rat run expert) was under the impression that the game started at 2.00 and hussled us out of there a bit quick. The only quaffing I got in was down at the John Smith's Stadium where you couldn't get Tetleys, so we paid twice as much for an inferior pint or three. The game was always going to be one sided but the atmosphere was great, we were shouting for Ireland to score by the end. Then it was home through more traffic and a magnificent thunderstorm in time to feed up.

Couldn't be helped Mick. I should have got the beers in, but didn't know you'd be so quick. I've got a very loud younger and a quiet middle brother - you may have noticed.

We stayed on until about 20 past and got there in time for the kick off. I haven't been to a match for 25 years, so it was great for me. We're now planning something for March. We want to meet more regularly and make up for lost time.

prendrelemick

11-06-2013, 12:18 PM

Are you coming up for Le Tour de Yorkshire/France Paul ?

Paulclem

11-06-2013, 07:30 PM

Are you coming up for Le Tour de Yorkshire/France Paul ?

No plans to yet but it's early days. The timing's funny as it's really busy with our end of year rush round at work. We'll see.

The Atheist

11-08-2013, 05:40 PM

I see the England team has taken the weather with them to Australia.

Carry that through to Sydney!

prendrelemick

11-12-2013, 04:32 AM

Yup. TOURING POMS DOUSE BUSH FIRES!

I see the Aussies have re-instated Mitchell Johnson, That's a little sub-plot right there, after the way he couldn't handle the pressure last time.

Ok, I promise not to go on and on about the Cricket...Much

The Atheist

11-14-2013, 12:50 AM

Oh please do; especially if, as I expect, Australia is getting hammered.

prendrelemick

11-17-2013, 05:47 AM

Y'know, I think I could actually watch an All Blacks match all the way through. They play a very watchable game of union football. Thank goodness they beat our lot, demonstrating that playing to win is better than playing not to lose.

Paulclem

11-17-2013, 04:57 PM

I watched the England v France RL game last night. A better game than the England Ireland match. I'm looking forward to next week's match against NZ. It'll be a proper test.

prendrelemick

11-18-2013, 04:26 AM

England will have to step up a bit for that one, should be good.

The Atheist

11-19-2013, 04:09 AM

NZ/England league games are a bit like the union ones. Every now and then England manages to pull off a rare win.

I have to say that this tournament looks like the perfect time to catch the Kiwis napping. I imagine they will be focusing on Australia and may let their guard down a little against your mob.

prendrelemick

11-22-2013, 04:44 AM

Blimey! That's the most inept English batting performance for many a long day. You go to bed confident, and as soon as your backs turned they start throwing away wickets like they're going out of fashion. It was like they were flipping the ball to the fielders. It's going to be tough for them now.

The Atheist

11-22-2013, 02:35 PM

Awful display.

An obviously successful attempt by young Australian women to put the men off their game.

Shame, Australia! Shame!

Not even much chance of the weather helping, sorry.

The Atheist

11-25-2013, 12:49 AM

Well, that was that, then.

And nice to see the game being played in such good-natured fellowship: http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/cricket/ashes-201314-michael-clarke-threatens-jimmy-anderson-alastair-cook-slams-disrespectful-david-warner-as-series-turn-ugly-8960984.html

The Atheist

12-01-2013, 03:35 PM

I hope you northern lads caught up with a little of the "world cup" final.

If ever it needed proving that league is not a game worthy of a world cup, I trust the 34-2 drubbing in the final will dispel any myths on the subject.

What a shambles.

One of the things I like best about league is that every single time the Kiwis get cocky about their chances of beating Australia, they get slaughtered. Alas, last week, they'd been reading their own press about what a great side they were, and thought that just had to turn up to win.

Australia taught them a valuable lesson that winning must be done on the scoreboard, not in the head.

Paulclem

12-01-2013, 03:43 PM

I missed it - again!! I have no power over the day. It is at night that freedom is bestowed - in terms of the telly anyway.

I've seen the score, but will still watch it on the I-player - if I get chance this week.

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-01-2013, 05:23 PM

Auburn pulled off an amazing win over Alabama in final second of the game.
Pretty exciting stuff.

"34 -2" would that be a cricket score or round football?

prendrelemick

12-02-2013, 05:04 PM

^Was that Rounders GG.

I think the Kiwl's were knackered after the semi final against our lot - the best match I've seen in many a long year - that went down to the last second too.

To be honest, the aussies were a class above everyone else. Ah well, now for the Cricket...

The Atheist

12-15-2013, 02:56 AM

<<<Sets up a round before cobwebs shut the bar entirely.

A nice warming stout for the northern hemisphereans, and an ice-cold for us southerners, sweltering under 28-30 degrees.

prendrelemick

12-15-2013, 05:05 AM

Cheers!

Send a crate to the Waca would you.

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-15-2013, 11:13 AM

I was on my way down to spray some WD 40 on door knob, but I see you managed to open up.
Send a warm Drambuie my way please.

Paulclem

12-17-2013, 05:05 PM

I'll have a bourbon.

It's been so busy this year - I've hardly had chance to do 'owt.

My two brothers and I are in the process of arranging a curry in Sheffield after the success of the England Ireland trip. One of us has even mooted the possibility of a continental trip in the future. Bruges was suggested, but I'd be happy with anywhere. It does open the opportunity of sampling some authentic Belgian beer though.

The Atheist

12-18-2013, 12:29 AM

Unfortunately, you'd be surrounded by authentic Belgians as well!

I see the Ashes are back in safe hands for a while.

On current form, we have a couple of good fast bowlers right now - just cleaned out the Windies - so I wondered if the England chaps might like to pop over for a game or two after they're finished in Australia.

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-21-2013, 01:18 PM

A round of potato vodka to our fifty year old sod buster.

The Atheist

12-21-2013, 01:39 PM

:party::party::party::party::party::party::party:

Oh yeah! Count me in for another member of the 50+ club!

Paulclem

12-21-2013, 05:12 PM

Thanks guys - the drinks are on me.

Paulclem

12-24-2013, 06:04 AM

Christmas Eve. Time rolls on.

So the allotment shop has shut for 1 week. I'll be down there digging once the festivities start to grind on.

Last week I was in the allotment shop - our members are coming in to pay their rent at the moment. So this guy come in and Vic, the secretary says - remind me of your name. This bloke says Steven Hawkin, and I, fool that I am, asked whether his book was selling well.

He expressed his extreme displeasure and went on to detail:

he gets this everywhere he goes
his name is Steven not Stephen
his surname is Hawkin not Hawkings
he's not an author
he's never nurtured an interest in theoretical physics or mathematics
he's not in a wheelchair
he doesn't need assistance to speak
and he is significantly younger.

Which - due to his annoyance - was much funnier that my foolish quip. I've made another friend I think.

sandy14

12-24-2013, 07:50 AM

Bruges was suggested, but I'd be happy with anywhere. It does open the opportunity of sampling some authentic Belgian beer though.

Bruges is nice. Be sure to visit the (only) brewery in the centre of town. There is a guided tours and it has an ace café attatched to it, which is cheaper than many of the restaurants around it.

I went there by Eurostar - the Belgians have a system where Eurostar tickets are valid for 24 hours on the local trains to allow you to reach your destination (and return), so you will only need to buy a ticket to Brussels. Flying would mean buying a separate train ticket at the airport which adds to the cost.

Paulclem

12-24-2013, 06:11 PM

Bruges is nice. Be sure to visit the (only) brewery in the centre of town. There is a guided tours and it has an ace café attatched to it, which is cheaper than many of the restaurants around it.

I went there by Eurostar - the Belgians have a system where Eurostar tickets are valid for 24 hours on the local trains to allow you to reach your destination (and return), so you will only need to buy a ticket to Brussels. Flying would mean buying a separate train ticket at the airport which adds to the cost.

Thanks for that. I'll bear it in mind. I have two brothers and we have only been out twice altogether - we're in our 40s and 50s. We might try a trip ourselves or take our partners along. Either way I'm sure it'd be good.

stlukesguild

12-25-2013, 01:13 AM

For the first year since the wife and I have been married... nearly 20 years... we don't have a live Christmas Tree. They were all sold out earlier this year than in the past. Having to make do, we set up a sort of Christmas "shrine" with a ceramic tree, candles, and other decorations and lights... and of course a good many of the stuffed Teddy Bears we have collected over the years. We need something of a shrine of lights to help deal with the blues that accompany the long winter days... when its dark in the morning as we head to work... and dark when we get home. Of course the reality is that a live tree might have presented a real problem with two new young puppies in the house. Nevertheless... we got this Christmas "shrine" set up tonight accompanied with candles, incense, and Christmas music on the stereo... just finished with Anne Sophie von Otter's Christmas album (for me) followed by Dean Martin (for the wife...) OK, I have actually come to like some of these sappy songs, but I'll deny it if ever confronted... and claim duress under the effects of alcohol if anyone quotes this post. Celebrating Christmas Eve we broke open a bottle of Chimay...

http://www.shanghai9.cn/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/c067b99fa85d58571b23096d27427518/c/h/chimay-blue-3l_2.jpg

followed by a Southern Tier Choklat:

http://legalbeer.com/images/southern%20tier%20choklat.jpg

In spite of all the predictions... we got 4"+ of snow today... so we will be having a "white Christmas"

"And since we've no place to go... let it snow, let it snow, let it snow..."

Merry Christmas to All... and to all a good night.

:santasmil:seeya:

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-25-2013, 01:43 AM

Merry Christmas to you and the rest of the lot around here.
We're over at the brother in laws watching "Scrooge" working on my third dirty Absolute martini.
I brought a bottle of Duvel for tomorrow.
Good night to all.

The Atheist

12-25-2013, 02:14 AM

In spite of all the predictions... we got 4"+ of snow today... so we will be having a "white Christmas"

Well, at least your wife will be able to say she got a solid four inches this year!

Merry Xmas all!

(nearly over down here - dinner eaten, kids playing; all is well with our world at least)

prendrelemick

12-25-2013, 03:53 AM

The turkey's in, carols are playing on the radio, the offspring are wending their way in our direction, It's Christmas! I love it.

Paulclem

12-25-2013, 08:04 AM

Aye. Dinners in and we're drinking sherry whilst it's cooking. The Mother in Law's here and the dog has settled down finally. The joshing can begin.

Merry Christmas chaps.

MarkBastable

12-25-2013, 08:49 AM

he gets this everywhere he goes
his name is Steven not Stephen
his surname is Hawkin not Hawkings

If only to demonstrate that pedantry knows no season, I feel obliged to point out that Stephen Hawking's name isn't Stephen Hawkings either.

Happy Christmas, all.

dream69

12-25-2013, 09:47 AM

Is this book for free? I love to read story books.

Paulclem

12-25-2013, 07:50 PM

If only to demonstrate that pedantry knows no season, I feel obliged to point out that Stephen Hawking's name isn't Stephen Hawkings either.

.

Oh I shall point this out with pleasure the next time I see him. The apostrophe was definitely not implied.

The Atheist

12-26-2013, 09:19 PM

Yes, you can read this entire thread from start to finish, all for free!

Although shouting a round at the bar will be viewed very favourably.

Paulclem

12-27-2013, 07:32 PM

After my last outing with my brothers, we have now settled upon a date for our annual January curry. We've never had it before, but a tradition has to start somewhere.

We will be in Sheffield this year, and plan to meet at 11am, and leave by 6pm. We will have a few jars, a curry, followed by a few more jars. Marvellous.

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-28-2013, 12:05 AM

Here's to a new year and a new tradition. I'm stumped on Trans Atlantic translation; "curry" - I just now educated myself into lern'n that you aren't going to have a bowl of powder seasoning, but the "jars" still has me wondering.
When i read jars, my mind leads me to mason jars which can only mean one thing - "moonshine"

Happy new year in advance, we'll be heading out to my sister's for annual hootenanny this weekend.

Paulclem

12-28-2013, 04:28 PM

Haha - interesting. Jars refers to pints and probably comes from the original receptacles, although I'm guessing. It is a well known term here.

My wife is from Coventry and moved to Yorkshire where we met. She was bemused by the term Spanish - which in Yorkshire refers to liquorice. She thought it was some salacious term when she was asked if she wanted some once.

Happy New Year to you Gil and all the chaps.
We'll be seeing the Mother in Law and Brother in Law on New Year's Eve. We've bought a new game based on British culture so that the Mother-In -Law can join in better. (Pictionary was difficult for her).

The Atheist

12-29-2013, 01:22 AM

... "curry" ....

Clever English invention.

Get rotten meat, cook, adding curry powder to mask the rotten flavour.

Bingo! Ready-made meals.

I think the meat being rotten is optional these days, although some of the restaurants I've seen would make you wonder.

Gilliatt Gurgle

12-30-2013, 10:49 PM

Clever English invention.

Get rotten meat, cook, adding curry powder to mask the rotten flavour.

Bingo! Ready-made meals.

I think the meat being rotten is optional these days, although some of the restaurants I've seen would make you wonder.

Ahh, sounds like a recipe for a syndrome - "IBS"

Good luck wit that Paul.

stlukesguild

12-31-2013, 12:20 AM

New Years Eve will be our annual holiday get-together. We'll have some friends over for the evening served with the traditional German sauerkraut and pork, an Italian Christmas Chili, various Hors d'oeuvres, a generous selection of truly fine beers, stouts, and ales... complete with Champagne for the midnight toast.

Paulclem

12-31-2013, 07:21 AM

Ahh, sounds like a recipe for a syndrome - "IBS"

Good luck wit that Paul.

Haha. It's no problem for me being a veggie, though my brothers are both meat eaters. With the recent horsemeat scandal here in the UK - where people found out through DNA checks of ready meals etc that they were eating horse rather than beef, lamb and pork - I wonder why they don't just come clean and have "anymeat" as a cheap alternative. They've probably been eating anymeat for years.

New Years Eve will be our annual holiday get-together. We'll have some friends over for the evening served with the traditional German sauerkraut and pork, an Italian Christmas Chili, various Hors d'oeuvres, a generous selection of truly fine beers, stouts, and ales... complete with Champagne for the midnight toast.

We're having a curry - a take away. The Mother in Law and Brother in Law will be drinking wine probably. I'll have wine/ port/ beer whatever. We often don't make 12 o'clock - everyone else feeling too tired. I usually end up on the computer - though this year I might have a go on GTA5 for my xbox, unless my son decides to have a beer with me. He's had to get up before 10am this morning, so it is uncertain whether he will last the night.

(I don't mind his sleeping habits - he'll be working for the rest of his life and following the rigid working patterns we all follow - unless he's lucky).

The Atheist

01-01-2014, 10:40 PM

... I wonder why they don't just come clean and have "anymeat" as a cheap alternative. They've probably been eating anymeat for years.

Horsemeat is good, healthy, low-fat stuff, too.

I don't understand why it's illegal to eat it. Is it the thought that that bet you lost on last week might be Sunday's roast?

I'd enjoy carving the sucker under those circumstances!

prendrelemick

01-03-2014, 02:07 PM

We went to the local Greek place for New Years eve. We were glad to see Theo the chef/owner and his wife had mellowed a bit since the last time we went - that's what Grandkids do to a man/psychopath. (Or perhaps he had forgotten the incident with the halloumi)

Anyway we had the Greek feast, where food just kept arriving, olives, feta, tzatziki, salmon, salad, pitta, meatballs, spicy pork, lamb and potatos, more salad. Being from yorkshire we had to eat everything we'd paid for, we were absolutely stuffed.

When we were leaving me and Theo fell on each other like long lost brothers, hugging, back slapping, hand shaking. I announced that the Salmon was the best I had ever tasted (it was) and he gave the ladies of our party a kiss and a tangerine each. It was as though a breath of warm Greek air had wafted up the Calder Vally and affected us all. A very good night.

The Atheist

01-03-2014, 07:11 PM

Being from yorkshire we had to eat everything we'd paid for, we were absolutely stuffed.

The sign of a True Englishman!

Paulclem

01-03-2014, 07:30 PM

We went to the local Greek place for New Years eve. We were glad to see Theo the chef/owner and his wife had mellowed a bit since the last time we went - that's what Grandkids do to a man/psychopath. (Or perhaps he had forgotten the incident with the halloumi)

.

That sounds intriguing.

I used to work with some Irainian chefs in a Pizza Restaurant at Newmilledam. They would all be shouting and gesticulating at once at various times during the day - I never knew what the problem was - but they seemed to settle down just as quickly. I got the impression they were a bit highly strung - but it may just have been their way. They were still a laugh.

Gilliatt Gurgle

01-04-2014, 04:10 PM

So long 2013

We carried out the annual Gurgle ritual of sending the prior year up in flames.
This year we added a new twist inspired by our Viking brethren, only we were unable to find a Viking horned helmet, so we settled for Roman, not to mention the Levi's were a bit out of place.
I constructed the crematory long boat from found parts laying about in the shop. However the 4 inch diameter PVC pontoons just barely had the buoyancy to stay afloat. My brother is the pyrotechnics expert, he is seen preparing the black powder packets. In addition to black powder, he added a few mortars, about one thousand fire crackers ( see the bandolier ) and several sparklers.
One of the mortar explosions had enough force to blow the helmet off and topple the assembly, thus soaking the clothing. We quickly up righted the assembly before the straw stuffing got wet. Eventually it burned down to the steel skeleton.
The one photo shows my son on left eating some smoked turkey, his friend and my brother on the right.
Here's to a happy, healthy, successful 2014:

(Click on thumbnails for larger image)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_17415ac4126de1077d9c27e06013981b_zps4a2a6d38.jp g (http://s963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/?action=view&current=17415ac4126de1077d9c27e06013981b_zps4a2a6d 38.jpg)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_9d6437d1a536014e394c29e53f4b6e18_zps91a003c8.jp g (http://s963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/?action=view&current=9d6437d1a536014e394c29e53f4b6e18_zps91a003 c8.jpg)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_b34e609b5553639ef885edbedc25d278_zps3f84fe1b.jp g (http://s963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/?action=view&current=b34e609b5553639ef885edbedc25d278_zps3f84fe 1b.jpg)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_03bf8c807eb75d79e7308552bb352535_zps04de4fe4.jp g (http://s963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/?action=view&current=03bf8c807eb75d79e7308552bb352535_zps04de4f e4.jpg)

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/th_5ce260a1f02c8939d0d1028af42d7917_zpsd0e78ba8.jp g (http://s963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/Misc%20Album/?action=view&current=5ce260a1f02c8939d0d1028af42d7917_zpsd0e78b a8.jpg)

The Atheist

01-04-2014, 07:03 PM

That's a party with class!

Sancho

01-08-2014, 05:54 PM

Hahaha

Light your hair on fire and be somebody!

The Kid

01-09-2014, 03:33 AM

Being from California, I rarely say the word "cold". Or "ale". Or "bloke".

Light your hair on fire and be somebody!

Perhaps this isn't the best place for me to look for some paternal/masculine influence in my life?

The Atheist

01-09-2014, 03:51 AM

Being from California, I rarely say the word "cold". Or "ale". Or "bloke".

That's ok, the English drink their beer warm.

Perhaps this isn't the best place for me to look for some paternal/masculine influence in my life?

And maybe it is!

And I see you live in SF.

You couldn't call it a warm climate.

Samuel Clemens once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco".

Sancho

01-09-2014, 08:20 AM

Perhaps this isn't the best place for me to look for some paternal/masculine influence in my life?

Haha, Bob's yer uncle!
- I refuse to grow up. I tried it once, but it didn't take.

And I see you live in SF.

You couldn't call it a warm climate.

Samuel Clemens once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco".

San Fran is one of a very few US cities that's GREAT for walking. And it warms right up out there going up and down those hills.

The Kid

01-09-2014, 08:41 PM

And I see you live in SF.

You couldn't call it a warm climate.

Samuel Clemens once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco".

Actually I live here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Jose,_California

It's considerably much larger and warmer (!) than San Francisco, despite its proximity. It's also much less famous, and disgustingly more unequal economically.

Samuel Clemens once said: "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco".

Samuel Clemens was a genius, and quite witty, though I think his novels are slightly worse than the rest of his writing.

He was spot on here about San Francisco, though. I once met a girl on an airplane from San Francisco to Boston. She was visiting during what happened to be a warm spell, perfect weather where I lived, absolutely beautiful. But when I told her this, she was surprised, and said it was still cold. I mean, a New Englander thinks California is cold? But alas, it was one of those famous San Francisco summers, which does feel like winter. Not where I live, though.

The Atheist

01-10-2014, 04:46 PM

Actually I live here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Jose,_California

It's considerably much larger and warmer (!) than San Francisco, despite its proximity. It's also much less famous, and disgustingly more unequal economically.

Yeah, but everyone knows the way there.

The Kid

01-10-2014, 08:07 PM

Ahh yes, that :) Of course.

Gilliatt Gurgle

01-10-2014, 09:23 PM

That's a party with class!

Hahaha

Light your hair on fire and be somebody!

We were a little disappointed in the results, but again, it was the first time we tried this on water. In previous years we carried out the auto de fe in the bonfire.
I'll guarantee better success at the end of this year.

...
Perhaps this isn't the best place for me to look for some paternal/masculine influence in my life?

Probably not , all you'll find around here is worn out testosterone scattered about.
Look, there's some slouched over the bar.

prendrelemick

01-12-2014, 05:10 AM

More petrol required I think, and rockets - plenty of rockets!

Paulclem

01-13-2014, 06:34 PM

Great pics Gil. I agree - more rockets. It looks like a cold day. Did you get hit with the arctic blast recently?

My brothers and I are having a curry in Sheffield at the weekend Mick. We've been anticipating it virtually since we came up to Huddersfield. The trouble is, we're having difficulty finding one open in the afternoon. We may need to settle for a pub curry - which will be ok I'm sure.

prendrelemick

01-14-2014, 02:59 PM

Sounds good paul, Hope you, the quiet one and the chatty one have a great time.

Gilliatt Gurgle

01-16-2014, 12:07 AM

Great pics Gil. I agree - more rockets. It looks like a cold day. Did you get hit with the arctic blast recently?

My brothers and I are having a curry in Sheffield at the weekend Mick....

We were hit with the tail of the "polar vortex", however it was nothing as compared to the northern states.
Yes rockets!, I believe both of you are on to something there.

Sancho

01-16-2014, 11:48 PM

prendrelemick

01-17-2014, 07:19 AM

I like the projectile idea - it gives a nod to the Viking way - mourners throwing their flaming torches onto the funeral bark as it drifts up the fjord. Or was that a Kirk Douglas/Tony Curtis film?

Gilliatt Gurgle

01-18-2014, 09:38 PM

... Wait! How about a home-made Piezoelectric shell fired at him from a twelve gauge? That'd be pretty cool.

This activity takes place in East Texas, whereby life and intelligence takes on a less sophisticated approach. I'm afraid that piezo business would go over our heads higher than a Loblolly pine.

I like the projectile idea - it gives a nod to the Viking way - mourners throwing their flaming torches onto the funeral bark as it drifts up the fjord. Or was that a Kirk Douglas/Tony Curtis film?

I should clarify we do use projectiles to ignite the effigy in the form of "Roman Candles", but I am intrigued by this type of rocket:

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/986bcdb893b597d7a821ab5d42a0b660_zpsaa894365.jpg

This was 2012's effigy -note the Roman Candle fire ball streaks:

http://i963.photobucket.com/albums/ae114/tabuka1/New%20Year%20Celebration%20Jan%202013/IMGP2915.jpg

The Atheist

01-18-2014, 11:45 PM

How about White Phosphorus? That'd give floaty-lake man some pizzazz. You could name him Willie Pete. Hmmm, what are the fuzing options? Hmmm, gonna need some type of mechanical delay on an implosive projectile to detonate William Peter. Wait! How about a home-made Piezoelectric shell fired at him from a twelve gauge? That'd be pretty cool.

You're a very bad man!

I like that in a bloke.

I like the projectile idea - it gives a nod to the Viking way - mourners throwing their flaming torches onto the funeral bark as it drifts up the fjord. Or was that a Kirk Douglas/Tony Curtis film?

Yes, that was Vikings, although other cultures burnt the boats as well. For Vikings, see also, Mare of Steel:

http://i150.photobucket.com/albums/s97/TheAtheist/mareofsteel_zps15763ce2.png (http://s150.photobucket.com/user/TheAtheist/media/mareofsteel_zps15763ce2.png.html)

I should clarify we do use projectiles to ignite the effigy in the form of "Roman Candles", but I am intrigued by this type of rocket:

I do a bit of rocketry, but re-usable rockets with engines. They look amazing at night, and you can units that will go up to a mile high.

They're a little on the expensive side, but if you want to make a splash, try one. Just accept that a night launch means you're going to lose the rocket - they parachute back down.

Paulclem

01-19-2014, 05:06 PM

Perhaps one of the space shuttles will be available cheap.

We had a great time in Sheffield. It's a nice city full of stone buildings. The pubs were good though all the curry houses didn't open until 5.30. I also tried a strawberry and lime cider. Very nice and a pure strawberry flavour.

The Atheist

01-19-2014, 09:20 PM

Perhaps one of the space shuttles will be available cheap.

They're cheap enough, but hell to move.

We had a great time in Sheffield. It's a nice city full of stone buildings. The pubs were good though all the curry houses didn't open until 5.30. I also tried a strawberry and lime cider. Very nice and a pure strawberry flavour.

Off to find some of that immediately.

Sancho

01-19-2014, 11:48 PM

Okay, I'm thinking a homemade, shotgun delivered, piezoelectric fuze, designed to cook off Willie Pete the floaty-lake man may be a little ambitious for the typical home pyromaniac. So how about a fertilizer-bomb* floaty-lake man? We could call him F-Bomb man. All we'd need is a couple of sacks of ammonium nitrate, a couple of jerrycans of diesel fuel, and maybe a few M-80s with an extra long fuzes. Oh yeah, and a cigarette lighter. Then if everything goes as planned, the people standing on shore, watching F-Bomb man detonate, will start dropping the F-Bomb left and right: "Holy F! Did you see that F-ing F-Bomb man blow up? That was fan F-ing tastic. I'm going to go home right now and build my own F-ing F-Bomb man, uh, just as soon as this F-ing ringing my ears goes away." And so on and so forth.

*Literary tie in: In Ed Abbey's novel, The Monkey Wrench Gang, the Gang's plan was to drain Lake Powell and reclaim Glen Canyon by blowing the Glen Canyon dam with a fertilizer bomb. They were going to load a houseboat with ammonium nitrate and diesel fuel and then drive it up the Colorado River and anchor it at the base of the dam. Then it was going to be party-time, ecoterrorist-style.

Paul, a year or so ago I had the chance to eat at a wonderful restaurant in the "Curry Mile" section of Manchester.