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Friday 30 September 2016

MY FOREVER LOVE BY FIONA CUMMINGS


MY FOREVER LOVE

©  FIONA CUMMINGS

You left me and I never understood

We were to be always together

During times bad and good

Through stormy weather

Holding hands forever

But you went and left me here

In shock, and in fear

I miss you my Dear

During the night I reach out

But there is no one to touch

I just want to shout

I love you so much

But I know why you didn’t take me

Because you knew others would need me

And you also know

That when it is my time done on earth

You will be there to show me where to go

So in the meanwhile

I shall paint on my smile

And do what I can

But my darling man

Know there isn’t a day goes by

When for you I don’t cry

Though I tell myself why

You left me here

To carry on what we started

And really we never parted

As I feel your love each day

That will never go away

 

SMILE

My friends pet mouse elvis died the other day……
 
 
He was caught in a trap

DIARY OF TRUST LAUGHTER AND LOVE BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Good afternoon Bloggets. Thank you for all of your kind emails. I have not been here for a few days I have half written blogs and either they were not good enough to publish or I just didn’t get time to publish them and by the time I found some time, they were old news!

 

It’s been a strange few days ending yesterday with a happy closure. Firstly, my interview day on Monday, I still have not heard they did say next week but I hoped that I would have heard by now.  There is another job I’m looking at if I apply I shall tell you. I shall look into it more this afternoon and fill in all what is necessary if I learn of the job location.

 

I have heard from my faithful Bloggets such positive words with regards me talking about going for an interview, how they now have the courage to do so as well. I’m delighted. My work is done if that is the case. I know a lot of you apply for jobs and don’t get an interview, well I wonder if A, you need to look how you are writing as in how you are selling yourself and your written word? And B, maybe you are looking at the wrong kind of occupation for yourself? If I were to apply to work with for example, Paedophiles, and I did get the job, I would have to deal with them. Smile. No way I could sit in front of a person like that and be professional. I also couldn’t work with the preparation of meat. For obvious reasons.

 

Not sure if you Bloggets in the UK saw that program on BBC I think it was last night? It was all about meat. Hub said it would upset me. Well I started to get high blood pressure at first as the way the man was talking about meat with no regard to the animal drove me to despair. But then, I ended up with a huge smile on my face which turned into an expression of concern. Not just for the animals but for my boys. As of course they eat meat.

 

Did you know that a bacon sandwich with two slices of bacon in was the health equivalent of smoking four cigarettes?

Burning things on a BBQ released chemicals called Heterocyclic amines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Muscle meats such as Beef, Pork, Fish or poultry cooked on a high temperature have such chemicals and did you know even the fat oils that drip from a BBQ for example, also cause these chemicals which change the DNA, which cause cancer. Not only BBQ’s but grills or pan fry anything that is cooked on a high temperature. One of these chemicals is also found in cigarettes and car fumes.

 

Then there is the amount of meat you eat per day? I can’t remember the recommended dose but what I can tell you is that a man had a full English breakfast and he had two bits of bacon and a sausage and he was almost double over what his consumption should be. So how to reduce the risk of cancer? Well cut down on your daily meat allowance. Avoided exposure to an open flame or a hot metal surface and avoiding prolonged cooking times, especially at high temperatures.

 

Cook your meat in a microwave to avoided cooking it on high temperatures start it in the microwave then finish off on your cooker/oven.

Turn your meat over as much as you can.

Remove charred bits from meat and avoid gravy made from meat.

(Become a vegetarian?)

 

Seriously, I was a happy bunny running free in the countryside without the farmer chasing me when the show had almost ended. I say almost as Hub and I after forty minutes had heard enough.

 

So as for last night? Well, yesterday was a funny one for me. After taking some time out to think about life, and certain people in life, my main thought was on the subject of trust. Our Little Fella had to go to the vets for an ex-ray.

 

If you may remember he hasn’t been too good for a while, when we got back from our holiday Hub took him out to work and as they were walking along, Hub noticed that he wasn’t walking very well. So Hub had a week with his wife who couldn’t walk haha, now his poor dog.

 

LF had after care and it was cut short as again he couldn’t walk. So he collapsed three times his legs just fell beneath him. Once was at the train station.

 

All day I was worried about LF especially when I learned that he wouldn’t be coming home last night?

 

At the vets there was an emergency a dreadful case of abuse as far as a poor pet so a big operation so LF had to be put to the back of the queue. Oh bless him I was thinking of him in a cage and again putting myself in his head thinking he was thinking where is my Daddy and what am I doing here?

 

Well long and short of it is, he ended up going to a lovely boarder for Guide Dogs who had him when we went on holiday. He loved her so I was so relieved that he went there. There is only two places I would have been OK about him going one with another lady who sent me something very funny last night, so I will tell you about that at the bottom of this blog, and the lady he ended up staying with.

 

Hub phoned her. He was really worried about his LF. We have been through enough rubbish with our dogs losing two in a year so we are not ready for more pain.

 

She said that he came in and went straight to the toy box, took out a cuddly toy and found a pair of socks she thought she had lost, hahaha. She is so lovely and that put our mind at wrest. Also knowing that he wasn’t crying in pain as they do manoeuvre the dogs when they are performing an ex-ray.

 

The fantastic member of staff from Guide Dogs took LF to the lady and even made sure he had food for the night. An amazing lady, who goes beyond her duty.

 

Well, we wait to hear how he is now. And he will return home tonight. Much delight to our Waggatail as again, she cried during the night. She wakes up and realises that her little brother isn’t there and gets herself so upset. She did it every night when LF was away with his Daddy on a conference.

 

Now, as for yesterday? I had a great day. Our Son took me out to do some retail for Hubs birthday. He was amazing. I have never seen him be so brilliant. He didn’t complain once. He didn’t make me feel like I was a nuisance once and even encouraged me to go into shops, rather than telling me I could only go to one and only see one isle. That is what it is normally like. We even went for lunch his request. Normally if I dare to suggest a coffee, he is no way Mum. We laughed, sang like fools as we were driving along and just had a proper fantastic day and Teen even told me he enjoyed himself.

 

Gosh, what time did that alien come to our house and abduct our Son and replace him with an angel?  It was amazing I am sure it won’t happen again for another may be let me see, how long has it taken to get yesterday done? Em, yep, nineteen years, that may be how long I have to wait until I have another day like it but I tell you it was so lovely. What a difference that made to my day. Hub was so happy too that we went and he is excited about his birthday gift… He will have to wait until Tuesday.

 

Teen is off work on his Dads big day, but is going somewhere with Shamrock at four in the morning but as ever, bless him, he puts everything on hold, he always has done mind you for mine and Hubs birthday. He dedicates two days a year for us and because we are a tiny family Hub and I appreciate his love.

 

Hub is working in London on his birthday. Not impressed dot com. But will be back for evening meal out perhaps? Or we may do it on the Wednesday when he isn’t so tired.

 

I walked quite a lot yesterday and ate pain killers for my leg but it was great. I also have arranged to see a great friend soon and of course you know that I await my angel painting.

 

Now as for a lovely lady, what she sent me I hope this makes all my lady Bloggets smile.

This is lovely. This made me laugh because only women understand this! If my body was a car, I would be trading it in for a newer model. I've got bumps, dents, scratches & my headlights are out of focus. My gearbox is seizing up & it takes me hours to reach maximum speed. I overheat for no reason and every time I sneeze, cough or laugh either my radiator leaks or my exhaust backfires!

 

Haha, Don’t you just love that? Well let’s hope you ladies are not old bangers and your body work is in perfect condition. Later with love.

Tuesday 27 September 2016

DIARY OF FRIENDSHIP BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Good afternoon I was beginning to think I wouldn’t get here. A very busy day. It’s beautiful out there, hope you are having some sun? Had a great catch up with a dear friend today it must be a week for friends as Saturday, we went to visit our good old school friends.

 

With all of the drama yesterday, I had forgot to write about our weekend. All yesterday when I got back, I was shaking. I never knew that such a morning would affect me. During the interview I wasn’t at all nervous but afterwards? Gosh, how would I approach my Husband and Son. I so want to do this for them as well as myself and others and I knew I had failed the interview though the people were so lovely especially the lady who was great. I have never known of such a lovely team they really are like a family I love them.

 

I felt as if I had been whipt yesterday and the interview wasn’t even for Ann Summers. Haha. Sorry, back to my weekend?

 Hub, Waggs, LF and myself took ourselves to the train station and picked up our tickets. We went for assistance and caught our train. It was packed from one end of our carriage to the other. Not sure about the other carriages but ours was chocker block.

 

We got off the train and met up with our friends Trix and Like. Then we caught the next train thanks to the assistance again. We sat next to each other and as we got off our friend’s daughter picked us up. She is such a lovely girl.

 

In her car all of us, dogs in boot, the skinny’s in the back and fatso Fi in the front with the lovely Emsky.

 

Off to our friend’s house. I was so looking forward to seeing her and Tracey. Let me tell you, our friend from school JB, has a beautiful house. We love it, Hub and myself. An afternoon that went too fast spent with our school friends. Mr. Clock was there too and his friend. JB had a stunning candle, have you heard of them? They are called Woodwick, gosh Hub and I loved it. It’s in a lovely diamond kind of dish with a lid and it smells so beautiful. The wick is made from wood, hence the name WoodWick and it crackles like a fire when burned. Good old Amazon…

 

My Wagga was naughty for me until her Dad took over and she never moved a blooming muscle when he had her. For me she was so very naughty. All dogs played in the vast garden to tire them out, bless JB she’s not bothered, her house is so relaxed. I wish we could see more of her but it is so far including two trains.

 

I couldn’t believe JB’s latest section of her show house. She has bought a beautiful new sofa and you should see what she is doing to her bathroom? Gosh, it’s beautiful. She has amazing taste. I say that because it’s similar to mine, haha so they may be loads of people who don’t like my taste and won’t like JB’s but if anyone does, then you will also like hers. I love her sense of humour and she has not only a grown up daughter but a young teenage girl too who is so sweet.

 

 Sadly time to come back home, but the journey wouldn’t be as easy on the way back,  the train home is unmanned so all four of us, Trix Like Hub and myself have to find the train and get on by ourselves. Gosh I’m petrified. As we walked up the small alley way to the platform which is outside, Hub with LF, me with Waggs pretending she was a pet rather than a guide dog, and our friends with their white cane, there was a train in the station. Was it ours? It was so noisy. There were a lot of people but difficult to hear them. Then they started to walk away, heck, were they getting on the train? Then Hub said it was at the other side of the platform so if we had of tried to get on, oh my, disaster as we would have been right on the tracks.

 

The train pulled away I still wondered if Hub was right and it wasn’t ours? If it was I’m not sure if there was another train. That station is quite spooky at nights. Hub was right, the train pulled in and we headed for the doors. A kind lady got off the train and made sure we were OK. We sat down, got off in the town and on the next train. After half an hour, said bye bye to our Trix and Like and we stayed on for another half hour. Then the twenty minute journey home, after leaving a very noisy train full of drunks and passing by another group of very drunk people at the station. Seriously, I would ban all alcohol if I could. Because of the people who just can’t stop.

 

It was late when we returned home, Teen was in a foul mood he always is whenever I go anywhere. He says he loves having the house to himself. He had been out with his pal to get a haircut, to the shops with him and to the gym and was getting ready as he finished his ironing to see his pals again that night, an yet his mood was like fire.

 

I was sad that we had to leave our friends, but have another good memory and I’m sure many more will be had

 

I hope we can visit our besties Trix and Like soon as we only live an hour from them. Now winter is coming fast, it’s a great time to have cosy catch ups with friends and talking of cosy, it was really funny, when we went to JB’s on Saturday, everyone had alcohol and Trix and I sat with a cup of tea. Hahaha. We know how to party, right?

 

I have a beef casserole in the oven and it smells so lovely, I actually made myself a vegetarian dish today, rather than me having nothing. Hub still at work, Teen there till almost nine and tomorrow he is up at half five to start an early shift. Tomorrow Hub is on a train again and won’t be home till late.

 

So before I go, some words.

A dog loves you more than he loves himself. Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole. The better I get to know men, the more I find myself loving dogs.

Roger Cara’s writer and photographer

BLOG STATS


Well Bloggets you have stayed so true and because of you all, this blog keeps going. Thank you all my Blogget family. In total now this blog page has reached 144,059 and here are the top ten countries who have viewd, but as I say every time there are so many other countries who view but the stats only show the top ten countries. First let’s see who have been here in total and then we shall look who have visited this month.

 

United Kingdom

62190
United States
41093
Russia
8196
Ukraine
7158
Germany
4045
Canada
1383

France

1201

Australia

1034

South Africa

785

Japan

689

 

And this month?

United Kingdom
2669
United States
1197
Germany
106
Japan
93
Canada
83
Australia
59
Turkey
55
France
36
 
South Africa
35
Ireland
32
 

 

 

Monday 26 September 2016

THE DAY OF THE INTERVIEW BY FIONA CUMMINGS


OK, not sure how long this blog will be right now. I don’t know how it will come across either. So, where to begin? I guess at the start.

 

So today was the day of my interview. Last night I was a mess. I so badly didn’t want to be a failure and let my Husband and Son down, more so I didn’t want to let down those of you who have all been kindly routing for me. Thank you all so much for your messages whether it be through social media, messaging or emails texts or a phone call. Every word you said to support me meant more than you will ever know.

 

In short, I was brought up being told that I would never accomplish anything or achieve anything in life. And then at a very young age I married, I was fed words that made me believe this.

 

For so many years, too many years I lived in the shadow of pain and sufferance. I was a failure with a capital F. I met my now Husband who began to try to heal a very broken soul. And still to this day it’s a battle and I can tell you I don’t just dislike myself, I hate myself, but I love others and I want people to read my blog and know what I have been through in life and be able to say. “If Fiona can do that, maybe I can?””

 

I want to lead the way for those who have nothing now but can find things along the way. And open doors for those who have had doors slammed in their face. I want those doors to not only be opened for us, but for us to open the doors and have someone keep them open for us to come and go.

 

In a sighted world I want those without sight or with very little to walk alongside those who can see who have never had challenges in their life to do normal things that sighted do every day.

 

So I am positive that I won’t get this job, but I can tell you that I went for it, I filled in the vast amount of forms that were to be done and sent in as the initial application form and even to do that was a risk. Why a risk? Because I didn’t have a clue how to do this and had no help, but this was my baby and I had to bring it up and nurture it. If I didn’t get an interview because of my poor application, then so be it it was my mistake at least I made that leap of change and did something totally out of my own comfort zone, a place I don’t frequent often but when I do, each time I do, I do it for the voices that are silent. I test the water for us.

 

I’m not a super blind person far from it, but I am human. I have feelings doubts and fears. Years ago no way I would have applied for such a job. Well forms in and the waiting game began.

 

I was shocked and kept thinking a mistake had been made as I was told I had an interview.

 

Why me? How? what did I do?

I had to think it was the way in which I wrote my passionate appeal my appeal to whoever would read this and decide who would get the role.

 

I kept thinking any day I would get a call to say it had been a mistake and I hadn’t been chosen for an interview.

 

But the day didn’t come and today did. Today, the day of the interview.

 

I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was this was huge for me. Who am I? how dare I?

 

It was then I had to tell myself off and say that I know I can do this job. Question is, do the people who interviewed me? Personally if I was to say before the interview what my chances were, I would say zero. My writing skills are good as far as getting a point across and I can stand up in a huge room and give a talk without any difficulty, but as far as an interview? What would they ask and what else may happen in the interview? Sometimes they do role play, so if this was to happen, how would I handle it?

 

This is a rather high position and from going from not working to such a role, most people would find the job role too much of a huge leap. Personally, right now I feel like I am standing at the top of the ladder and I’m not falling off. But someone could come along who speaks more eloquently than me and knock me off?

 

So I fall, I I go no further in this job application. And? I’m still alive and thankfully I’m not relying on the money the job offers though the extra finances would go towards paying for things like someone to come with me to Christmas shop. As people who can’t see, to walk into a huge shop and head towards a particular item is a challenge. Someone to explain colours of clothing and so on. We could pay for so much more that would help us to make our lives easier. But moreover, I could get up in the mornings and have a purpose in life. I would meet lots of people and have challenges to fight for with regards others. I could come home and know that I have helped to change the minds of those who had spent a life time being stubborn. And go to bed feeling satisfied. I would know that because of what I can do, I would be able to sleep knowing that I have achieved something in life. I had helped to give life to someone.

 

But this is my heart and I don’t have past job experience to give for examples. So getting ready for my interview today, what did I expect? What did I hope to gain from the interview?

 

If not a result, at least to come home and know that I had done my best and even if I don’t get the job, I have done my first interview. Something never ever would I have done some years ago. And as long as the best person gets the job, as long as they pick someone who will make a difference, then I will still be happy.

 

I had to gather my passport and other official documents and other paper work I needed for the office.

 

I had planned in my head what to wear. Even that getting ready for someone who can’t see isn’t easy.

 

What do people wear for interviews now days? How do people wear their hair? Even how do people walk into a room? We don’t see these normal everyday things so how do we know what looks normal?

 

Normal, gosh, how do I do normal, what even is normal?

 

I showered, dried my hair.  Put on my robe and went downstairs. Took all my pain killers as didn’t want to look a right one as I hobbled into the office. Ate some food, drank tea and ran back upstairs. Brushed my teeth and put on my makeup.

How not to look like a clown?

Try to remember what goes on first? Which bottles are what, square shaped pallets all look the same to me. Powder? Blush? Glow? Luckelly I know what everything is now but still it’s not just something that I take or do with a pinch of salt, or pinch of powder. Smile. I have to really think! For those who are sighted, imagine doing this without having the luxury of a mirror? And when it is done, what the heck do I look like? Who knows?

 

Well my text beeped and it read my taxi had arrived. Just as my friends bless them started to write to me saying they were thinking of me. God love you all.

 

Oh, I was shaking. It would be so easy to say no. stop. I’m not going. Something pushed me and I walked forward. Oh who would the driver be? We have a few who come and most of them are lovely but there is one who is a little scary.

 

The guy wasn’t a usual but someone who used to pick up Hub a lot so I did know him. Thank goodness it wasn’t who we thought it was going to be?

 

I got into the car. Gosh, clinging onto my envelope with all of my paper work in. Really professional looking, right?

Em. No.

The guy looked at me as we were driving off. His head turned to me and I thought, put your blooming eyes on the road? Heck, I have not rubbed my blusher in properly? Haha. Gosh, do I have dog hair on my jacket? Little Fella’s hair gets everywhere.

 

I turned and looked at him he read my mind, I wanted to know what he was looking at? He told me I looked nice and I was grateful that was the case. So because I know him well. I said OK, well get your eyes on the blooming road. We both laughed and that broke the ice. From then on I was put at rest. The hour journey went so fast, why? Not sure.

 

My butterflies stopped flapping around and fell asleep. We pulled up and suddenly the butterflies woke up and began to dance.

 

Heck, are those people who were to interview me looking out from the window?

 

One of the lovely girls from the office opened the door and in I went. Oh gosh… My legs were shaking. Julie who I go with to give talks met me too and I can tell you I wanted that job even more as the staff there are so lovely. One of the managers came to speak with me and he is so calm and caring that they totally put my mind at rest. After fifteen minutes, a man came out and introduced himself to me. We walked into the smaller office and a lady was sitting there who I used to volunteer for about ten months ago, so I knew her. She was lovely the two of them weren’t at all condescending this was what I was afraid of.

 

I had stopped shaking and was ready to give my heart and soul into the interview, all last night I wondered who I should be, who I should replica? Answer, no one, I was myself. If they didn’t like me then I am not the one for the job. I have no experience and only life to put on the table. I imagine that they will want someone who has managerial skills and I don’t, but I do have passion and determination.

 

Then the questions began and everything else that came with the interview.

 

I can’t say too much as there are still people to be interviewed, today is just day one. I did ask when I would hear and the answer was next week. That alone told me straight away that I have no chance in being offered the role because I’m sure that they will know by Wednesday or latest Thursday who they want, they will call them and sort out the people who were not successful next week. So the interview was over, and it wasn’t the full time I was told it would be either, again another sign  would you say  But as I left the office and went into the big office, the girls again were so lovely. They made me a cup of tea and I chatted with them until my taxi came.

 

I got home and now I feel awful. I was shaking when I returned and now I’m just so tired and shivering inside. I’m in a state of shock. The best I can do now is forget about it but hold it in my heart for a memory. A memory of doing something so far out of my comfort zone and memory of how lovely the staff there were to me. Like protective sisters. The manager was so beautiful, a huge warm heart. So caring I hope I have not let anyone down today especially you all. And I hope someone will get chosen for the job who will fight for those who have questions and need issues resolved.

 

My outfit for the interview isn’t even hung up. It’s on my bed. I don’t want to face it right now.

 

Dinner tonight? Heck I don’t fancy my chances of it getting made for me.

 

I told the girls in the office that I was coming home to iron. Well that hasn’t been done. I feel in shock. It’s crazy. And I feel sad because I want to work so badly I want to be normal you know? Just a part of life, the living. I want to be the voice for others and I know I can help to make change with my blogs to spread awareness, but I also know I can do more.

 

So next week I shall let you know how I got on. It’s over now and I’m back home!

Sunday 25 September 2016

DIARY OF THE DAY BEFORE BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Oh my word. I’m feeling very sick right now. After such a good day yesterday, today is not good. I will write a separate blog on that, but as for now? My interview is tomorrow. And I don’t know how to prepare myself. I just don’t want to sound an idiot because I know I can do this job but it’s been too long since I had any involvement in intense and intelligent conversation among more people than just one at a time.

 

I want my brain to once again open to such situations in life, I’m fed up of wondering what cleaning product to use and when. There is nothing wrong with that, because my first priority in life is to be able to have a clean and tidy house and look after my family, but I want to wake up in the morning and know that what I will do will change someone’s  life I want to make change in the world not just decide on what is for dinner and put away the ironing. For thirty years plus in fact, if you count boarding school more than that, that is all I have done.

 

I am going to the office, in the morning and will be back in the afternoon. Right now I just feel sick. It’s based I believe on points everything is these days. I just hope if it is, I’m not left with a big fat zero? Smile.

 

My poor Hub isn’t well at all today. He has had a cold for a week now, well five days since he came back from Devon. He has tried to sleep and now in the bath and it’s afternoon. He never does that kind of thing, that is how I know he isn’t feeling well. I have never known him like this, he is living on cold tablets, I just hope he doesn’t pass it on? As for the little Fella? Oh bless him, he is going for a scan on Thursday I’m really not wanting that to happen because they will give him anaesthetic so he will be a sleep and at the vets for two hours. The other day coming back from Devon with Hub after their conference, LF fell in the station then got up and all was well, but there is something wrong with his shoulder for sure, now whether it’s just he has pulled a muscle? Not sure but will get it checked out. He is only two bless him.

Our dogs had their free run on the field and you would never know there was anything wrong with LF and yesterday he was out all day too playing and again, he was fine, so let’s hope?

 

Teen at work and I have done some housework and now writing to you all, I need to do some home work for tomorrow, but where to begin? I wish I had some clue what they would be doing, if there is some kind of test? At least we are all in the same boat none of us will know what to expect though they will have all been for interviews before. I need to tell myself, I know I can do this job, I just have to prove to others I can. Question is, how? I’m going to be myself as that is all I know how to be. I know I care about people and it is a people’s role. I won’t be able to say much tomorrow, other than how I feel I got on because there are a few days of interviews I expect as there are more than me obviously going for the job, not sure how many per day but last job role Hub had to interview I’m sure it went on for days?

 

Hub is staying at home tomorrow and working from our house office.

OK going to write about our day yesterday and I have something that is exciting for me to tell you all. Until later, with love and something to think about. If you think dogs can’t count, try putting three dog biscuits in your pocket and only giving him two?

Friday 23 September 2016

A TOUR OF THE MUSEUMS


Museums, art galleries, have never been my thing. Why? Because firstly I don’t like past or history. OK my Bloggets and especially my close friends and family will be now saying. “You don’t like the past? You talk enough about it?” Smile. OK point proven but I don’t like studying about historical matters and museums are a collection of old stuff, right?

 

So, why else do I not like looking at artefacts like the legs on a table?

Because I can’t see them. Most of our museums are behind a rope, and alright, you may be able to ask as a person without sight to touch the items. Gosh I hate that; everyone looks at you. A night in a museum where there are no members of the public or staff would be great, I would love that. So this got me thinking, do I really dislike museums? If I could see, which museums would I visit?

 

There are double the amount of museums today than there were twenty five years ago. The toy museums are funny I always remember when I entered one about twelve years ago with my ex. Oh I was shocked that there were toys in there that I played with as a child? I mean, how can that be a museum? I guess it was old stuff to a huge amount of people, my Son who was seven at the time had never seen such toys.

 

So take a trip with me around the worlds museums?

 

Shanghai Natural history museum

Wow this building sounds amazing it’s shaped like a nautilus shell, one of the finest examples of a logarithmic spiral found in nature and it looks like it grows out of the gardens at Jingan sculpture park.

 

Gosh Bloggets listen to this one? Wow, I can imagine the sight in my mind, again, it’s my imagination, not in real life, if it was, I would have to go here just for the absolute unique picture. So, where are we off to now?

Cite de Vin, in Bordeaux, a state of the art centre. This museum shows you the history of wine making and though it’s a museum, the building, wow, it’s futuristic which is a contradiction on history, right?

 

The building is gold and aluminium and spirals into the sky.  The building gives the appearances of like wine flowing up the rim of a glass and it overlooks the Garonne river.

 

And now where? Let’s stay in France

Foundation Louis Vuitton,  Paris Bois  de Boulogne is set in two hundred acre park and the actual building is made with thousands of pieces of glass. It’s a centre for International contemporary art commissioned by the fashion brands cultural foundation.

 

So I think if I could see, I would go to museums for the architect, rather than what is in the building.

Thursday 22 September 2016

DIARY OF THE NIGHT AND DAY BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Good morning Bloggets. Hub returned home at about twenty to one this morning. Good job he had LF as no assistant turned up at our station. Twice in just over a week he has had bother with this, last time was another station. I thought the little fella would have been exhausted but he came through the front door like a bolt of lightning. Waggs was delighted to see him and they both went in the garden and chased each other. Didn’t care it was pitch black and people were in bed. I had to get them in as they were growling and barking. I have never seen Waggs so pleased to see him. Last night she slept didn’t cry, she has cried for ten minutes at least during the night ever since he left.

 

I thought I would be doing doggy day care today but Hub took LF with him to work. Now, that is another matter, Hub at work? Is he? I don’t know, he didn’t bother to let me know he had made the one-hour journey safely. I have text him, called him and emailed him. Nothing in response. I guess one of his colleagues would call me if he had not touched base? I hope. They have before. I’m sure he will be consumed with budgets today and he had a meeting to run as well. 

 

Our door bell went just as I was to get in the shower. I tried to run downstairs but my leg wouldn’t allow me. I am waiting for something ever so exciting more on that later, oh it’s my parcel? I rushed as best as I could hobble and shouted on teen to get there before me I knew he was still in bed, but I hoped he would run for me as I am in all the time for his blooming clothes that he gets delivered. I shouted, no answer. No way he wouldn’t have heard me.

 

Got to the door there was a little voice. Oh no, sales person? No. It was Shamrock. Bright as a button. In she came she said she would wake up Teen. I called him. He grumbled his normal morning voice to his Mummy. Hahah. Then the door opened and in walked Shamrock. Oh it was hilarious to hear the change in his voice when he realised Who it was!

 

Well they were going to the gym. God help little Shamrock. He will kill her. They were then going to undo all what they had done at the gym and were going for a full English breakfast. Then they are talking about going swimming. Kids, I can’t work them out, they go in the dark to a park or country gardens or the beach. When it is a lovely day sunny like it is, they go in doors gym and swimming… When it rains, I guess they will go to the countryside for a walk?

 

Whatever he is happy. Is. Smile.

 

So what am I now waiting for as far as delivery? Oh Bloggets, you just wait for this. Now, you know what an exciting life I lead, don’t you? Well, here goes. I’m waiting for

Ready for it?

 an indoor broom.

And? Your point is? Hahahaha

 

 

Well my vacuum is bust. I only have a big one that is rubbish on hard floors so I thought if I got a broom, swept into a pile and then used the tube to suck up the pile, if it’s in one place, it will be all good, right? Only thing is, it’s taking forever to get here. You watch, I’m going out at the weekend and it will turn up.

 

Boy wonder is in, but he will just say he didn’t hear the bell. Well if he does, next time he has a parcel due, I will say I didn’t hear the doorbell.

Hmm, if only I could be so harsh?

 

Oh but I’m an expert now on brushes. Oh yes, I read about thirty of them. There is science you know in making a broom? Said the witch as she prepared her magic potion…

 

OK back to the house, where to start? Oh I’m bored stiff with this now. I guess the ironing, and then more washing. I will return later with love. X

Wednesday 21 September 2016

DIARY OF MY DAY BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Good evening Bloggets. Well it’s well after eleven in the evening. My Son has been up since half five for work. He didn’t get to bed till after one this morning. He worked all day then went to see Shamrock. Came home had his dinner and cut some roses that were hanging over the path for me and then went to the gym. After that he went straight onto his friend’s house where he is still. He must be exhausted. I so wish he was home now and in bed sleeping. I don’t like him driving when he is so tired. At least he has a day off tomorrow so he will sleep in. I think he is out with his friend but not sure. He only has three pals left here the other lot have gone to University and Teen said last night that he is seriously considering doing some course that will make it possible for him to teach over 16 year olds. I can see him as a teacher, but that is in the pipe line we shall see in the meanwhile he is burning the candle at both ends and he will end up ill unless he relaxes.

 

For dinner tonight I made large fish cake one for teen one for Hub when he gets in and I made a savoury rice with chilli’s and stuffed peppers with Greek cheese, cheese with ginger and sundry tomatoes. Veg was baby corn and those things that look like pea pods, hahah. I can never remember what they are called. Personally I hate them but Teen and Hub love them. I did a roast tomato on the side of the plates too. Hubs is in the microwave as there is another hour and a half at least before he arrives home. Gosh he sounds shattered on the phone and is in work tomorrow too, but at least he is going in a little later. He will leave the house at ten.

 

He told me an hour ago on the phone, heck I should have let the taxi know that I am in later? I told him it was done. I did it this morning. Good job I’m on the case. Also reminded him to pay a payment that had to be done by tomorrow morning. He forgot, but he has had loads on his mind of late well over the past couple of days but almost home now. He has a change unfortunately a change of trains. LF has earned his biscuits this week. Hub said LF did get a bit lost around the hotel, but he is still newish to all of this. Hubs last dog Suki / AKA Long Chops was just amazing She used to stand still watch looking left and right and make a decision where to go. She never made a mistake. Oh heck, I miss our girl so much. Last year at this time we were still so badly grieving and I don’t think we will ever get over her loss.

 

As I keep saying thanks to so many of you, we named a guide dog puppy after our girl. So if anyone has a pup called Suki she will be a few months now and is a golden lab retriever, it would be lovely to hear how she is?

 

Our Suki was a gift from God, that is for sure.

 Within three days she went from what we thought was fit to getting put to sleep. The shock, the pain was simply unbearable. Hub was blessed that he got another dog so quickly. LF came with issues and wasn’t easy to rehome with another person as their guide dog, but he is still our little fella and we adore him and I’m sure he will come home telling Waggatail all about his amazing time. If only we could understand our dogs? Haha.

 

I wonder if Hub will leave him at home tomorrow as he is getting a taxi to work and LF has had a very busy few days, moreover, he has spent twelve hours on a train and over two hours in taxi’s as well as a new environment to work.

 

Hub has budgets to do tomorrow all fun.

 

Gosh I’m exhausted. Today I removed all towels from my cupboard re folded and put back. Took everything from very large blanket box and did the same bringing out the winter bedding and putting it on our bed as well as doing loads of washing, dusting, floors cleaning them with vacuum and steam mop and doing the dog run grooming the Wagging one and cleaning the water in the bird bath. Well not cleaning the water, smile, but changing it. Then cooking. I made Teen some leek and potato soup for lunch and then his evening meal. Then I washed the main bathroom and cleaned our shower room. No, I’m not nesting…. Hahaha. Too late for that nonsense. Just things that had to be done. I sent in my work for my job interview. I had an exercise to do and a motion to write. The motion was, is interesting… Not! My ironing is still there and I think it will be till Friday, oh something else I did, booked pantomime tickets at the theatre for Christmas. I’m really looking forward to that. England is unique to have Pantomimes we are blessed.

 

If I were to write about the definition of what one was, you would be so confused. Let’s just say people in the UK love them and it’s something to do near Christmas. I must say I do miss the ones in my home town of Newcastle, there is nothing better than the Geordie sense of humour. I can tell you it’s against everything that I believe in to do anything Christmassy this early in the year and I find it sinful to know our shops already are advertising Christmas goods, but as far as the Pantomime? There was one Saturday night left before Christmas, can you believe that? One and the production starts early December and runs for about six weeks.

 

OK, must dash for now and get on the phone to nag to my lad to come home. Cruising on midnight now.

 

THE NATURE OF THE NIGHT BY FIONA CUMMINGS


THE NATURE OF THE NIGHT BY FIONA CUMMINGS

As the snowy owl glides

In autumn navy nights

It’s predators hide

To ground hunter’s delights

The golden fox with his chest so white

Screeches as food does excite

Rabbits so polite

As they wait on the roadside

When clear they run across

To warrens covered by moss

A safe Haden for now

But the dogs do howl

Standing on the hills brow

Looking down

Just waiting

Anticipating

Contemplating

But still the flight of the owl

Fly’s among a cloud

Taller than anything can reach

Feathers as soft as a peach

Incredible

beautiful

Tiny stars Chace the falling leaves

Such midnight beauty beyond belief

The moonlight shines in the babbling stream

With shadows of oaks now gold from green

Will I wake up?

Is this a dream?

© Fiona Cummings

VISION HOTELS BY FIONA CUMMINGS


Good day Bloggets. Gosh, where to begin? I guess at the beginning. Well, last night after a full day, Shamrock came around, she spoils Teen and almost always brings him food, either cakes she has bought, a take away meal or in the case of last night, she brought him a savoury rice and chicken she had cooked bless her. That was after an enormous pasta dish he consumed that I had made him. He did make a sound to say he was rather full as he exhaled and allowed his toned stomach to breathe out as his cheeks puffed out with contentment!

 

Shamrock is trying to renew her passport and it is a total nightmare. Contacting  the Irish Embassy is proving to be a challenge. We spoke for an hour or so, she is so sweet different to anyone I have known before. I like her. I just have to keep my distance a little as they are both so young and I don’t want to get attached to her and be sad if they do split up. Teen is adamant that this girl is for life. But he was with the last one. Thank God she wasn’t. Hub really likes Shamrock and out of the two of us, Shamrock prefers Hub. It’s sweet as I would have never put those two as a connection, again so very different. But saying that, Teen and Shamrock are so far apart with regards being similar it’s unbelievable. But it’s working and they obviously care for each other very much so long may it last.

 

I had to put the heating on yesterday for the first time, only for half an hour a couple of times, once when I got back in around three in the afternoon and about nine at night. Outside it was raining and you know when your bones feel damp?

 

Hub is having really lovely weather where he is, in fact he took his delegation outside for their conference yesterday.  

 

He is home tonight around midnight, or just after then. He has his six hour train journey first. He is staying in a hotel one of a few in the UK that is focussed around hosting holidays for people withno sight or little vision. If there are any last minute rooms, they are sold to the public, sighted or not.

 

Hubs organisation used to run them but no longer do and the hotels are closing, leaving those who totally relied upon them devastated. Well, I only know about the one he is in right now, I have had lots of reports over the past few years saying how run down this particular hotel is and even how it’s filthy. It’s near a cliff top too, without a rail, so not so blind friendly in that respect, but each room has tea/coffee facilities and there are gagits to help those who can’t see. All the room doors are Brailed and there are board games around the hotel in Braille too. The rooms have a dog bed and two dishes for the dog food and they will even arrange to get the dog food you need in so that you don’t have to transfer food. Amazing.

 

So, my first thoughts knowing that the hotel was in such disrepair, was to close them and for Hubs organisation and other companies to get together and talk with hotels around the UK to discuss four times a year they will fill their hotels with people with poor or no sight and for their conference room to have the things like games and Braille books perhaps, for people to get together and enjoy times together. The staff would be trained to help those who need it just perhaps an arm to hold as they are shown their room or a guide to the restaurant for example. We don’t need help with other things, it’s just our eyes that don’t work.

 

There would be dog runs put in the grounds for the dogs to toilet, just like there is in these vision hotels. Murder mystery weeks would be held and other activities that the now vision hotels do so well.

 

But after Hub was telling me yesterday he was talking to a man who is blind and he said that he never gets out of the house apart from once a year and he comes to this hotel for a month. Bless him. My heart broke. No one should have such a life. He was rather upset and Hub was shocked by the man’s situation. Hub said he so badly wishes that he had the money to buy the hotel and keep it going as this place is a community. People meet there, then meet up every year after that. I guess my idea of every day run of the mill hotels opening their doors for four weeks throughout the year wouldn’t work for this man who only leaves his house once a year. Poor thing, I guess some would say that he could have four different hotels, but there are people out there who to leave the comfort and safety of their house is a struggle that they hate to do. Once there, they are fine, but to leave the house is a total nightmare for them, the travel involved and so on as a blind person who doesn’t have any confidents is extremely stressful.

 

The people you see on the streets walking along with shopping bags or a brief case, well, those are the lucky blind people, I started this blog page for the silent people with poor or no sight, those who don’t have a voice and I think these hotels provide a safe haven for them.

 

So I am very  sad that the hotels are closing and so far there is no answer to what happens next and as I said to Hub, even if his organisation arranges something, for the people who don’t have a guide dog or are in contact with any companies who deal with those without sight, if they are not on line, I bet there are a lot of people who don’t even know that there is software to make their computers speak when you press the keys, or even know about IPhone and the speech facility that is on that. So how will they ever learn about a new project?

 

Oh as I’m writing this, I’m getting so upset. I don’t want to think of people on their own, I bloody hate the fact that someone is stuck in the house in a sighted world without sight. It’s almost like being locked in a room and the keys are lost to get themselves out.

 

Why didn’t I win the Lottery on Saturday? I tell you, if I had those people would be getting good news this week. I feel so helpless. Please find a cure for those who need it, end the darkness for those who want to see light?