Hi Chris

I cringed for Vassos this morning when you played the HRH clip. Ouch! And definitely no place in the Diplomatic Core for Vassos!

I'm experiencing a mixture of excitement for the Limpix, and also a sense of "stop whining and just get on with it" for the Limpix. Too much advertising form the "Corporate Partners" on the commercial TV stations and too much pooh poohing from those who would never, ever be satisfied - come what may.

We have tickets to go and see some football at Coventry FC. I think we get to see 2 matches on the same evening which is somewhat exciting - epecially if thie half-time donuts are as good as those at The Emirates!

Now, you take it easy and don't burn yourself out before it all kicks off: The One Show all week? 7 days a week of Breakfast (ok, brunch at weekends!) radio shows ..... I may even be tempted to watch the live bit in 'Stenders tonight even tho I stopped watching it some years ago due to its utter shouteyness and constant depressing script.

On your marks, get set ......

Deevs
x

Hello Chris.

Good luck with getting your accreditation and hope you haven't been crossed off the list. How could they cross you off Chris? I'm looking forward to the Olympic opening ceremony on Friday

I was at Lytham on Friday but didn't actually go to the golf but saw everyone leaving, a few blacked out cars were behind us. Could it have been Tiger or maybe even George Clooney (I hear he was there). Although I think they would leave by helicopter.

Off to the Daily Download soon to listen to Vassos talking to HRH Prince Andrew.

MM xxx

PS I know HRH leaves by helicopter!

PPS Yet another sunny day, the summer is here!

PPPS Off to the prom later!

Ohhhhh, Vassos, Vassos, Vassos........you do make me laugh...... You're right - you didn't actually need to say anything else at all!!

So pleased you liked Martin Creed, Chris!! I have been a fan for some years since this exhibition came to Southampton - https://www.martincreed.com/site/works/work-no-200. You were encouraged to walk through the balloons/in one door and out the other and it just really captivated me!! I absolutely love the bell-ringing idea too!! x

Afternoon,

Blogging from another office now and guess what the sun is still shining!

I am so excited for the Olympics and shall be glued to the telly for two weeks. I noticed on my tv provider box that there are a gazillion Olympic channels so I don't have to miss a thing - yay :))

I've got an old school bell which I am very tempted to ring on Friday, I could stand on my balcony and ring it - that would be fun.

Deevs, I too might watch 'Enders tonight, haven't watched it for years.

Right back to it!

AliB
xx

Hi everyone from a hot and sunny upstate New York. I too am very excited about the Olympics for good reason, my eldest son is on the coaching team for the Team GB women's basket ball. He's at the village now getting ready for a fantastic games and I'm so proud of him. So come on everybody and let's get behind our wonderful country and shout from the roof tops "COME ON TEAM GB!!!!!"

Have a fantastic time Chris and hunt out the girls and give them a big mention and my lovely son David.

Love to all

MaW xxx

Afternoon each

RAIN!! STILL!!

Glad to hear some people have the sun.

I'm really looking forward to Friday and the sofa at Sezza's to watch the opening ceremony of the Games.

Didn't hear all the show this morning and obviously missed Vassos so I'll have to have a listen again.

MaW, good luck to your son and his team.

Thanks for the reminder, Deevs, about 'Stenders, sounds like it's going to be interesting. And, I'll be watching Ab Fab at 9.30.

Back in a bit xxxxx

Hi:

What a day - continual rain - it would drive a person to ... drink! Really glad, though, for all of you who have the sun - it's good that we are not all in the same leaky row boat!

Just nice to see so many people popping in for a quick hello.

Nothing to report from me - looking forward to getting home (as always) but I just could not watch Enders tonight - I cannot bear a single moment of that dire programme.

Must say, I am starting to get very excited about the Olympics - I would think that on Friday morning, Chris will be off-the-scale excited! He was just in brilliant form this morning, but I missed what Vassos had to say - any chance someone could let us know the approximate time of what sounds like a very funny gaffe!

Enjoy the rest of Monday!

C xx

Hi Chrissie, very near the end of the show - Vassos and HRH's hat!

Still raining here - bums.

xxxxxx

Oooh, I did mean to say to MaW - isn't that fantastic for your son - yes, you must be so proud. I hope the team win a medal, and I hope they have a fabulous Games!

xx

Annie: thanks for that - I will check it out. xx I know, isn't it just awful - the street my office is in, in the city centre is really flooded - huge puddles and poor souls being soaked every time the ruddy traffic lights change. Aaaarrggh!

xx

Thanks Chrissie and Annie its so exciting, he's in his element and Chris he got to use the designated lane!

So sorry to hear about all of the bad weather you're having, let's hope it bucks up for the Olympics. I'm having an opening party here so I'll raise my glass to you all.

MaW xx

MaW, how cool is that? Using the Olympic designated lane. Bet there were loads of envious drivers!

We'll all be here on Friday on Sezza's sofa, so please do join us. I'm sure a glass or five will be raised too.

Hope you've got your wellies Chrissie.

xxxxx

Well - enormous bottoms!!!!! Just seen the weather forecast for tomorrow - MORE RAIN!!!!

I'm not sure letting the trainee vampire loose on my arm was a good plan! It's never inspiring when you leave with a leaflet about bruising! Ho hum!

Annie, I will try very hard to share the weather we have but I have enjoyed it today

MaW How fab for your son! I bet he's so excited|! Maybe he can give Chris a lift!

I'm having a good tidy around for Friday and fluffing up all the cushions!

Still haven't mentioned it to Mr Sezza but just turn up anyway!

Sezza xx

Sezza thank you, he's met so many of his heros already. Is it ok if us lot over here join you lot over there in the virtual party, it'll be 2.30pm here so a bit of an early start, but I'm sure we'll manage? I hope your arm isn't black and blue tomorrow.

MaW xx

Chris

You would appear to have moved from blogging weakly to blogging weekly.

Chris. Yes - exciting times. As a Londoner I don't really care about the congestion on the roads, pavements or tube and wish that the negativity would go away - lets embrace a fantastic event. I have so loved the idea of including as many people as possible in the torch relay - inspirational. Let the Games commence and enjoy.

Good morning all,

It's looking like we're going to have anther lovely day here on the south coast ,can't believe it really as we're so used to seeing rain. Actually our garden is still slightly squidgy as we are so close to the water table here .

Out last night with some friends for a nice Indian and a catch up ,it's nice to talk .

Back to work for me today ,and looking forward to Friday already ,I know I shouldn't wish my life away,but on days like this Id like to be at home and pottering .

Better be going and get myself sorted and ready for my day ,so take care and have a good one .

Bids.xxx.

Morning everyone

MaW - that's fab! Let's hope he has a fab Limpix.

I went to a business thingy a few weeks ago at the NEC and one of the guest speakers was Ben Hunt-Davis who won gold at Sydney in the Rowing 8s in 2000. He was so inspiring, and told a few tales of his experiences from the Games, but the one resounding mantra that the rowers kept asking themselves, and something that he's converted into his everyday business life is "Will it make the boat go faster?" - basically, the team questioned every single action or reaction with that question, and if the answer was yes, then it was implemented. And they won!

I think the Limpix and the new-found sunshine (sorry Annie!) is giving us a sense of happiness and national pride.

Busy day today - its new hair day and there may be blond. Or there may not be! Then a dog walk, some client work and some T20 cricket on in the background this afternoon as I work. I love that!

And THANK YOU Chris for playing Queen's Love Of My Life - quite possibly my most favourite Queen song ever recorded. I downed tools, pumped up the volume and listened, smiling, for its duration.

Right, time to see what will make my boat go faster.

Laters, lovelies.

Deevs
x

Morning blogettes:

Exciting isn't it? Limpix getting closer ! MaW you must be such a proud Mum. Our neighbours' son rowed for Team GB twice. Barcelona & Atlanta. Quite teary in our house when we managed to see him in the Olympic arena for the opening ceremony!

Saw him & his family at the torch coming to Chester. He had to be up at the 'crack of sparrows' to wave the flame go off again the next morning. I was quite impressed that local ex Olympians had been asked to do that. Presume it's been the same all over the country.

Another lovely day here on the border. Sorry about the 'bad' weather 'north of the border' if I could waft some 'good' your way I would.

Regards PJ

Morning All,

Glorious sunshine again today and again I don't have a cardi on! Sorry if it's raining where you are :(

MaW, Wow, I'm excited and proud for you, what an experience for your boy xx

Bids, I admire you going out on a Monday night, I just can't do it, puts me out for the rest of the week xx

Today I am off to Croydon! Life on the edge!

Completely forgot to watch 'Enders last night, so will have to try and remember to watch it on catch up.

Slaters
AliB
xx

afternoon peeps - wow, lovely day again (sorry Annie, Chrissie et al who are having rain)

Whilst I love the sunny weather for the obvious reasons, I also like it because it makes me eat more healthily.

Todays lunch was salad with about a third of a pack of feta cheese (lots of flavour for less cheese!) and then a fruit salad with black and green grapes, gala and ogen melon, chopped apple and a satsuma, with a lime squeezed over it to keep apple from going brown.
Both were absolutely delicious.
If the weather is wet and miserable, I want stodge.
Is anyone else the same?

Lovely to hear about MaW's son. Makes the lympix feel more personal.

Afternoon all just tucking into my salad with feta and olives pretending I am in cyprus somewhere but its not working. I think the fact that I am surrounded by engineers and phones is the reason.

Mr CB has his ear check on Friday fingers crossed its worked.

Crumps I was in Llangollen yesterday we love it, we also went to Corwen and Bridgnorth, sun out roof down. Lunch by the river - what Mondays were really made for.

Bids tonight I am off for an indian to celebrate our friends wedding anniversary. I seem to have mislaid my kitchen at the moment. Mustnt complain really.

Went to the Country Music Festival on Sunday which has left me with tanned shoulders, I love the summer its my favorite day of the year....

Not much else to report apart from we are nearly ready for our 40's day which will be the 12th August. I am really looking forward to it.

Have a good and sunny week everyone and enjoy the sunshine whilst its here.

slightly bronzed Cockney Bird.

Deevs - what you say about Ben Hunt-Davis reminds me of some of the stuff that's said by a speaker called Paul McGee.
Check out his website - the SUMO Guy. Lots of good stuff to download about motivation, not getting bogged down, being decisive etc.

Right - lunch over so back to the coalface.
I bunked off early yesterday to enjoy the weather - not going to be able to do that today.
Bums - as Annie would say.
ttfn, Crumpy xx

Hello.

Another very warm sunny day here on the Wirral peninsula.

I'm really looking forward to the Olympic opening ceremony now, I think we are all getting into to right mood now and forgetting all the negativity. I do, however, have one complaint and that is Eastenders, normally full of doom and gloom and just about as miserable as the scriptwriters can make it. It
's ridiculous to associate this programme with the Olympic torch relay. And anyway I didn't want to miss Superstar with people who bring happiness to our screens. It's impossible to say who will play Jesus but I have to back Rory from Wirral.

PJ-I think you're right about ex-Olympians carrying the torch in their own home towns. At Birkenhead Park it was Chris Boardman who comes from Hoylake. Mel C carried it too (although not an ex-Olympian).

Right, a cool drink is called for!

MM xxx

Hi:

Well, wonders of wonders - no rain today in Glasgow. In fact it is really humid, and everyone is dressed for winter. Will there ever be a "happy medium"?!

Annie: oh, yes, I needed wellies yesterday - not only was there a deluge all day, on the train home last night, the sink in the loo in our carriage overflowed ... I was thinking, please, tell me it is only the sink!

Sezza: hope the bruising is not too bad - you're a brave wee soul.

Bids: yes, always lovely to meet up with friends. And, I know what you mean about staying home pottering - my favourite past time, apart from having a kitchen party!

Cheryl: very inspiring about making the boat go faster. xx Unfortunately, I need a really powerful outboard!

PJ: you have indeed wafted some good weather our way - thank you.

AliB: just you enjoy not needing a cardi - sounds lovely!

Crumpy: I agree entirely - the weather always dictates the way I want to eat - I had a terrific turkey salad today, and boiled beetroot, which I just love!

CB: fingers are most definitely crossed for Friday for Mr CB. xx

Maddy: I am not watching Superstar, but I hope your boy from Wirral wins!

Must do some work, I suppose - tea break well and truly over!

C xx

Evening each

NO RAIN!!!!! Result! Even saw the sun for a couple of hours.

Just home after looking after 12yr old and 10yr old so haven't caught up yet - hope everyone is well and enjoying good weather.

Back in a bit. xxxxx

Hooray for the sunshine! Even if it is only for a little bit!

Don't look Annie but we've had wall to wall blue skies all day! I can't remember when that last happened!

Puupy dog and I have been to training class tonight - he actually spent less time barking at the other dogs than not tonight! There is progress!

Sezza xxx

Would someone please remind me next week to not watch Love My Garden? It always ends in tears.

Sezza, as others have said, the sun definitely makes you feel better - and eat healthily!

Chrissie, I have a picture in my head of you, on the train, trousers at half mast, tiptoeing through the overflow, whispering please god, it's only the sink!!

xxxxxx

Everyone who's coming to the OOCESFNWC, listen up!! And everyone who isn't, listen up too - This is something we can all join in!

I have a candle that is all gold and shiney - I think it was left over from Christmas - and I think we should have our very own "torch" relay!

I will light my candle at 20.12 on Friday - using the rays of the sun of course! ;-)

After that , someone else can light theirs and so on through out the evening, sort of a way to link us all together

You don't have to of course and if you do, it doesn't have to be a fancy candle - a birthday candle would do but might be fun?

Sezza xxx

What a lovely idea Sezza. I have a rather lovely candle, given as a present a wee while ago, which is just asking to be lit on Friday evening.

xxxxx

I think the candle lighting relay is a fabulous idea. I for one will join in at 20.12 exactly whilst watching events in Stratford.

All this talk of ringing bells at 08.12am on Friday has got me wondering what happened to the Victorian servant's bell we had in the house I grew up in many moons ago. Not that I am that old nor did we have servants. It was an ornament, I was fascinated by it and used to play with it.

I can't ring my bell but I do have three candles left over from Christmas bath sets and so I'll ,light one of those at 20.12pm.

What a bright idea!

MM xxx

MM xxx

Late Night Greetings Ter CLP & ALL Blog Persons...

Bingo Star 'ere...

CLP - Interesting The Vassos mad eit ter The Royal Lytham Golf gig.... A took the week off work ter go.... Only problem a didn't go in the end when a saw the price of the tickets and in only 5 years 'ow thwy 'ave doubled!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Corporate GREED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A went ter The Open many a time when it was 30 quid a day ter get in... On the championship days.... And 15 on practice days!!!!!!!!
A remeber when it was 'oylake aka Royla Liverpool Golf club in 2006 and a as it's only up the road form me Mum's and where a lived 95% of me life.... A went CRAZY and treated mesen ter a FULL weeks pass ter the golf.... aka an 8 day season ticket!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And a went nearly everyday..... That was 130 quid!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A was all set ter go a couple of days ter Lytham maybe even 3.... Until a found out it is 70 pound a day on championship days!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yes up from 30 a few years back ter 70!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thne on top of that they 'ave the cheek ter charge an extra 15 quid ter park yer car in a muddy field 2 miles from the course!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Even the practice day.... Yes wake up.... Only a practice day 40 POUNDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Plus 15 parking!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT is 'appening ter this country???????????????????????????

Nobody seems ter care about people.... It's all money, money, money and 'ow much yer can screw out of the long suffering British public!!!!!!!

I even 'eard Peter Aliss complaining live on bbc tv during 'is commentry that the R&A really do need ter look at the VERY expensive cost of food at the course!!!!!!!!

A can well imagine.... 85 ter park and get in.... Then probably 15 quid for a cheap quality cheeseburger and some cold chips!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

As an ordinarry working man it's getting 'arder ter keep up and pay for everything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The gap between rich and poor is widening.... And slowly going ter such events is becoming only for the wealthy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Even the British GP it was 250 quid for a plastic seat in the grandstand!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Or ter get inter a top concert it costs 70 quid and they 'ave the cheek ter charge yer a 9 quid processing fee/ booking fee even though most of the booking is done by ourselves electronically online!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A couldn't afford 200 plus DAMN IT quid for 3 days at the golf.... a need ter put it inter me 'ouse!!!!!!!

As an example CLP pal, if yer 'adn't been lucky enough ter rise throug hthe ranks of tv and radio and yer were still a fork lift truck driver in Warrington.... Yer be lucky ter be on 8 or 9 quid an 'our!!!!!!!!!
If yer banged a BIG 50 'our working week in yerd be lucky ter get 450 notes.... which after 26% tax yerd be on 333 quid a week..... 'ow could a fork lift truckie afford ter take 'is kids ter the golf?????????????????

Sorry ter rant on but ave gotta say me bit.... The corporate greed is destroying the 'appiness of the British!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The only thing tha tkept me going last week was watching the most nice coverage on the beeb in between doing extra work on me ne wold 'ouse..... and the thought that the Ladies British Golf Open is at 'oylake in September.... Of which that is 62 quid for a full weeks tickets or 25 quid a day on championship dees..... Now tha tis more like it.......

And the golfers are alot better looking than the mens golf ;-)))))))))))

My GOODNEEEESSSSSSSS a thought we were in the middle of a GIANT economic downturn..... At this rate of carrying on the corporate greed..... A VERY BIG downturn will eventually take place..... Normally a recession cleanses the economy/ Brings things back inte rline with the average wage..... But not this time.... It BOGGLES the mind!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Am off ter bed!

Mr Bingo

I fear you are barking up the wrong tree.

Chris Evans is part of the problem, not part of the solution.

Good morning all,

Another wall to wall blue sky and the sun is out ,supposed to be going to be hotter today .

Bingo ,agree with you when they hike up the prices ,takes a away the enjoyment doesn't it ,you're better off staying at home feet up and watch it on the television.
I dont know if it's true but the papers are saying that NCPcar parks in London have put there prices up while the games are on and rthey are going to be charging £6 an hour ,I'd rather walk.

Sezza ,what a lovely and thoughtful idea ,I'll be delighted to join you in lighting a candle ,It wont be a gold one but a nice one.

Right ,must be off now ,so have a good day all and have a good one .

Bids..XXX.

Morning All,

The sun is trying to shine today through the thick cloud, but its 'hot, hot, hot' as played by Chris this morning.

Like lots of people I too am getting a bit excited by the Olympics, the last one I remember with some affection was 1984. Strangely enough it was the year my Dad died but as the Olympics was in LA he used to sit up all night and so give us a running commentary of the events of our Team GB in the morning.

This year my Mum had an invite to the 'Technical Rehearsal' on Monday, she had a fab time and was even interviewed for French TV. Her Union Jack Flag, Earrings & Scalf may have been a big hit.

*Bingo, you are great when you have a rant, makes me laugh.
*MaW, you must be one of the many proud parents this Olympics, shedding a tear of joy
#Vasso, I'm sorry I left the room I was so embarrassed on your behalf - makes me cringe just thinking about it and I never listened.

Once again, Chris your enthusiasm is electric.
(Makes me think of a song, something from the original 'Fame' soundtrack)

The Wine, will be chilled, the nibbles ready and the candle (in a special holder) will be lit. Roll on Friday.

With Good Wishes to One & All. XxX

Morning blogettes:

Candle on Friday evening? What a lovely idea. We go out to the pub on a Friday evening to meet our friends from t'other end of village. We're usually home for 9ish. Just in time for the opening ceremony. I'll light my candle then and pop it on my windowsill to share with passers by.

Hello Sharon!

Regards PJ

Afternoon PJ,

Oh the Friday night out with friends, hubby & used to do that a lot. Ordering the Chinese on the way walking past and collecting it on the way home. That was before we moved and 'Cherub' arrived.

Cloud less so now and I'm sorry for the planet but the aircon is on. . . . .

afternoon peeps

Odd morning today - quite overcast in Wrexham and had to have the lights on in the kitchen whilst prepping salad for lunch.

Telford, once I arrived was very foggy.
It's warmer and clearer now but nothing on a par with yesterday.
At 3.30 when I got in the car to drive home, the temp gauge said 37C !!!

The steering wheel was almost too hot to hold until the open windows and travel at 60mph had cooled the interior of the car.

Loving the idea of our own little lympix torches (candles) at 20.12 on Friday. Count me in. If there's one thing we aren't short of in the Crumpy house, it's candles!

I am paricularly fond of the Sea & Sand fragranced one from Yank** Candles. wonderful!

ttfn, Crumpy x

PS - amusing game on songs with animals in - over on mayo blog :O)

I will be there on Friday lighting my candle. I'm with you crumpy, I love my yank@@ candles my oh reckons I have shares in the company!

Have a lovely day everyone I hope the sun is shining for you, I've got the dreaded dental hygienist this afternoon aaah!

MaW xx

Afternoon!

Ooh Sezza am i too late to baggsy a seat on Friday night? I have this bottle of rose that just needs an excuse to open it. Loving the candle idea but not sure I can find one but will do my best.
Packing up once again to move to the house we bought rather than this rented one, you see next Wednesday.

Catch you later.
Love, Susan xx

Hi:

Hope everyone is well this gorgeous day. I think today and Friday are due to be our summer, so I really enjoyed my wee walk at lunchtime!

Annie: I roared at your description of the waterlogged carriage! You are not kidding - I had my trousers up to my calves, and the wee guy beside me was saying "gie's a break, these ur ma new trackies"!!

Sezza: bless Gibbs - he's getting the hang of it! What a fabulous idea about the candles. Now, I am not a great candle fan, since the evening when MsS was entertaining her friends at her 16th birthday party, and decided we must have a HUGE candle in the bathroom window, for effect. Almost set fire to the wooden window blind - I caught it just in time, before we would all have been toast! But, I will certainly light a small candle on Friday, and think of the wonderful Chris Evans bloggers, and raise a glass to what, hopefully, will be a magnificent Olympics. xx

Maddy: my lovely Mum had a friend who lived in an old house and had servants bells (still working) in the kitchen. I thought they were fascinating, but can you imagine that if you were "downstairs" and one of those bells would tinkle ... you'd be cheesed off!

Bingo: totally agree, but 'twas ever thus. I remember managing to get tickets for Wimbledon in, I think, 1987. Paid a small fortune - pouring rain, but they managed to get two games played (games, not matches) on our court, ensuring that we were not eligible for a refund! It would do your head in, which is why I stay home and watch the good old Beeb!

Sharon: hiya - what a lovely post from you today.

Crumpy: now, that was a HOT car yesterday!

MaW: I know, I hate the dental hygienist too, but you will feel great afterwards!

Enjoy the rest of Wednesday ... we are getting through the week!

C xx

Afternoon all

Sharon: It's nice to have these little routines especially a visit to the pub! We have a quick bite largely due to living in a village and not having a take-away. Just a couple of hours to catch up.

MaW: Dental hygienist ................ my visit isn't until the end of August. Couldn't fit me in any earlier. I can't believe there's that many people who want to go through that. Almost think they're worse than the dentist himself. Any hygienist reading this - profuse apologies - sure you're a really nice person!

It's very warm but very dull here on the border. Time for a cup of tea methinks.

Regards PJ

Surely all you need for the Olympic opening ceremony is the competitors, their flags, the torch and maybe a few school kids dancing around in national costumes. Everything else is just a waste of time and money.

Well would you Adam & Eve it, I've just made the round with cups of tea too, hobnobs included.

I agree your mouth can feel fab after a visit to the hygenist but I don't like the salty jet wash. . . YUK! But in saying that painfree dentistry is the way forward, or so my Dentist tells me.

Forgot it was only Wednesday, wish it was Thursday, pay day is so far off!

Off to count the pennies.

Sharon

Counting the pennies did not take long, so I looked at the TV schedule for tonight to cheer myself up.

Something to look forward to which should help the last hour of work disappear into oblivion, the One Show, the line up sounds very diverse with a familiar theme, must make sure I'm home in time. Usually watch while cooking dinner.

Chrissie - Thanks for the compliment

Magic - In some ways I agree with you but surely it's all part of the build-up to the excitement; afterall previous games have been equally extravagant in their opening ceremony so why not us?

Lets face it, we as a nation won't be hosts again, certainly not in my lifetime so I say, let's go for it in a big way.

Sharon-I've just been looking at the TV schedule too. Thanks for The One Show heads up, will watch that. At 9.0pm is the Superstar final. Although I should be backing Rory from the Wirral I have to say that I think Ben should be the winner as he has such soulful eyes and voice and his last two night's performances have been (in the words of Lord Andrew) awesome. It would be unfair to give the role to Roger as he has already played lead roles in musicals including the part of Simba in The Lion King.

MBD-I personally love the opening and closing ceremonies, I will never forget the Sydney closing ceremony. I wonder if we can match that?

50. At 17:27

MM xxx

51. At 17:32

PS I wonder who the final torchbearer will be?

'Lo everybody

Chrissie,we promise we will all take care with our candles -100% true!

Bingo, I so agree about the cost of tickets. There are two or three things I want to see but the cost is just too much

Susan, loads of room!! I'm putting another virtual sofa in the living room for all the virtual bums to sit on!

Maddy, I don't know! I thought Sir Steve Redgrave at first but now I'm not sure. We have a soft spot for Redgrave in our house as that is the name of the boys' house at school

Hope everyone is ok tonight

Sezza xxx

First Olympic faux pas, South Korean flag shown for North Korean women's football team, oops.

At least we can blame the Jocks!

Last torch bearers - Lord Coe to Boris Johnson to ... Pippa Middleton.

I say grant Scotland independence immediately, so that when North Korea declare war we don't have to get involved.

I've just read that North Korea & South Korea are going to face each other in the first round of the men's ping pong. Let's hope they get the flags the right way round!

An-tong-hi ju-mu-se-yo!

Goodnight!

MM xxx

Good morning all,

Well, yesterday was absolutely beautiful and, for the second time this year, we had our dinner outside, overcast today but dry so far.

I've got a friend who's going to the equestrian events at the olympics, she is taking her baby with her, who is about 1 month old, she is not allowed to take a pram or buggy so has to carry the baby in a sling, which is fine, but..... she had to pay for a full price ticket for the baby!!!

Have a good day everyone.

X

G

Good morning all,

Morning Gail, that's a bit of a cheek if you ask me having to pay for a ticket for the wee one.

Another lovely sunny day here on the soth coast ,just hoping for it to be a tad cooler for me,dont get me wrong I love this kind of weather bu it doesn't suit meas Idid struggle yesterday and didn't feel too well .

Normal day for me today at work and really looking forward to tomorrow seeing it's Friday.

Take care all and have a great day .

Bids.xxx.

Morning All,

Another cardi-less day for me, that's four in a row :))

Had a very busy, long day yesterday including a food collection for the local Foodbank at "Every Little Helps"; and this morning I woke at 5:20am, so I may well flag around 10ish!

Crumpy, Quite agree with #23. I had nothing but salads this week as the weather has been so nice. xx

Sezza, Lovely idea with the candles I'll be at my friends house, so hopefully she'll have one and we can join in xx I'm still toying with the idea of ringing a bell tomorrow morning on my balcony, but I am a bit scared in case someone shouts at me.

Hello to lena-lot and Sharon xx

Right I'm off to put the chairs in order in the church; the local Choral Society leave them all higgle-de-piggle-de; and then put the tables and chairs out for the tea morning.

Happy Thursday Everyone

AliB
xx

Morning all

Happy smiley mood about to be ruined by meeting with grumpy residents!

Oh what joy!

Hope the sun is still out later and there are still some lovely people here to cheer me up again!

Some little blogger mentions sneaking on the radio over the past few days!

Now that always does make me smile!

Sezza xxx

Morning blogettes:

Warm again here on the border but dull and muggy. Feel for all those people who do not like the sunshine because of the pollen levels. Colleague has had to go home because of it. She looked rough - I hope she won't mind me saying.

Happy Thirsty Thursday
Regards PJ

Hi:

Just popping in to see what's happening - hope everyone is ok today.

Sezza: good girl, take care around a lit candle! Oooh, blogger mentions - I have missed this! It's a very long time since Chris mentioned the blog, so I am intrigued!

Dozer: isn't that just the limit, charging for a baby! Our Bingo hit the nail right on the head in respect of greed, didn't he!

Bids: I know what you mean when it is too hot, it's just really uncomfortable. Hope things are a little better today. xx

AliB: snap! I woke up at 5.20 this morning too! I now feel like it should be home time!

PJ: yes, it must be just awful for the people who suffer like this, really miserable I would think.

I see that the Beeb have approached Chris for Strictly! As we know, he is one of those guys who tries his very best at everything ... go for it, Chris!

Well, I just have to mention the debacle with the flags at Hampden last night. Quite rightly, the North Koreans were appalled and offended. However, if that's the only mistake made during the Olympics, we can live with it. Isn't it just typical, though, that it had to happen in our back yard!

C xx

Morning All,

My day started badly, as I had a bad night too, part & parcel of being a woman of a certain age in the summertime. Don't get me wrong I'm not complaining but really as if I don't have enough hot flushes! Although I have a very understanding Boss being late for work throws the day out completely.

MM - Enjoyed the One Show enormously and also the Superstar Final. Although I only watched this weeks' heats my thoughts straight away were for Ben to win, Roger didn't cut it in my opinion and neither did David. The best two were in the final.

Best get some work done as I've lost a good portion of the day already and I'm not firing on all cylinders.

(x)

The Flag for North Korea episode made me smile too, but how many times in past Olympics have other nations put the Union Jack on upside down?

Best go work calls

Hello.

Another summer's day here in Wirral but too humid for me. I know what you mean Bids, I don't feel too good either when it gets too hot, I find I struggle more with my breathing. I don't want to be always complaining b ut why do we have to go from cold and wet to dry and humid so fast, we need to ease into it.

Sharon-Ben just had to be the winner didn't he. I don't know whether I should say this but I thought the worst performance of the night came from Mel C who is going to play the role of Mary Magdalene. And what on earth was Amanda wearing? She usually looks so lovely but that dress looked like it was made out of bin liners.

Chrissie-I hope Chris does do Strictly, he was probably encouraged by Alex Jones. I'll be watching it all if he does.

MM xxx

Afternoon ,

Melting a bit at my desk today , but I will not complain ..... anything is better than the grey and rain .

Sezza, loving the idea of the candles and bells .
I am really looking forward to the opening ceremony, and have "pre booked" the remote control , to ensure MrMC knows I will be in charge tomorrow night .
Am eagerly looking out to see who is going to be lighting the flame . I am not sure who is lined up but was wondering if Bradley Wiggins would be picked . I just hope its not some pop star personally .
Right, back to the melting.
Bids & Maddy - look after yourselves

Bye for now
MC xxx

'ello...
Just a quick one terdee as am under severe stress!

Ave finally finished all me water pipes, me central 'eating pipes after banging in another new radiator. No leakers anywhere. Am getting an expert at soldering copper pipes and me 1 bar of water pressure is staying spot on. All a sign of plumbing DIY excellance ;-)

Only problem a was putting me floorboards back, and despite checking twice, ave screwed a screw through me central 'eating pipe... TWICE!!

Now ave cut 2 feet of 22mm copper pipe out and bang in a bit without 2 screw holes!!

PS CLP, yer blog title, the 'It's Nearly 'ere' bit.

It will be 'ere if we don't getta new blog asap!

Any chance of a new blog CLP man?

Afternoon

Bingo: Give our man a break! He presents a live radio show for three hours every weekday morning. In the evening he presents a live television show for half an hour. He's just become a Dad - again. I think I as a blogger can live for a little while longer wiithout.

Regards PJ

Afternoon each

No sun in Fife - bums.

What interesting posts since I was last here and I was going to make very interesting comments on them all but I've forgotten them all. My only excuse is that I've been working today and updating all my stuff on my work laptop - STRESS Bingo, STRESS!!!!!!

I do, however, remember MBD making a comment about us 'Jocks' - we'll get you back MBD, we will!

No babysitting tomorrow, did it yesterday instead so I'll be having a lovely lie-in in the morning.

Back in a bit. xxxxx

PS: Helloooooooo to Lena and Sharon. xx

Just watched the Olympic Torch in Downing Street. How very sensible not to let politicians touch it.

Oh, and btw, heard Melanie C singing her Mary Magdalene song on the radio this morning - sorry, not a patch on Barbara Dickson.

xxxx

Annie-Although Mel C sang quite well there's no emotion in her voice, as you say not like Barbara Dickson or Elaine Paige. How she will sound next to Ben's soulful voice I can't imagine.

Having read that David Walliams has been running with the torch made me think that he would have been good as the final torchbearer. Another very good one would be John Bishop after his achievement. Run John Run, calm down der!

MM xxx

Maddy, what's the betting that David Beckham will be the final torchbearer? Would be great if it was John Bishop.

xxxxxx

Hello all.

Had a lovely couple of days with family and grandchildren in this glorious weather that we are having at the moment.

Chris, where are you dear boy. xx

Hope you are all ok.

Hi Annie and Marjie. xx

CSN. xx

74!

75. At 21:10

Annie-Surely David Beckham won't be the first AND final torchbearer.

Hello CSN-Glad you are enjoying the lovely weather with your grandchildren.

Where is Chris? We know he leads a very busy life but we need a new blog. It does say 'daily blog' at the top of the page.

MM xxx

PS It's going dark early here tonight, I can't see my keyboard!

76 At 21:15

Took me longer to type in the dark!

Thank you Marjie.

It is so hot here tonight that I might sleep in the garden with the bats. LOL!

CSN. xx

78!

Are we playing a new time game here now Marjie. xx

CSN. xx

79!

It will cool in the garden with the bats CSN.

22:04 Could be a time game LOL!

MM xxx

80. At 22:07

Chris.

It would be lovely to hear in your next post here as to how your new baby is doing? Being a grandmother myself I am very interested to hear about these things.

CSN. xx

Oh, I've been watching the Torch Relay through London today and I am just so excited!!
My London looked so beautiful in the clear blue sky and the bright blue sunshine and the Olympic park looks amazing!
I'm trying to avid seeing the clip of the opening ceremony on the news - I know I'm probably sad but I just want to watch it tomorrow and, yes, I think I will need tissues!

I am glad that politicians haven't had the torch but I do wish ol'Boris had been able to have a turn with the torch on a Boris Bike - I think he must have put so much in to the Games

Just saw the clock tick over to less than one day!

I'll tidy up the living room tomorrow so it's ready for you all - just turn up any time

I''l put the drinks in the fridge and the snack are all ready!

I have my candle all ready and Boy1 is planning to light it with the sun!

Roll on tomorrow!

Sezza xxx

Marjie. LOL!

The bats are flying very low tonight, must be the heat.

CSN.

82!

Even the dawg is looking his best!

All clipped and smart and handsome!

xxx

Sezza.

Really looking forward to tomorrow night.

CSN. xx

So is Holly. LOL!

xxxxx

86!

I'm really looking forward to tomorrow night, I will have my candle ready Sezza

I won't be sleeping in my garden though CSN, I would love to be with the bats but not the snails out there.

MM xxx

PS We keep on getting a notice on BBC1 to retune if we want to watch Olympic things on the red button (if we haven't done so in the last two months) I'm going to do that now.

LOL CSN, 83 sounds like some sort of spy code!!

If you say "The bats are flying very low tonight"

Should your contact replay something along the line of "Yes, and the fireflies are very active in the midsummer" to gain entry to the secret headquarters?!!

Hope you've had fun with your family and take care if you're sleeping with the bats!!

(Better than sleeping with the fishes I think!!)

Night all, sweet dreams!!

Sezza xxx

Thank you Marjie and Sezza. xx

Sleep well and take care everyone.

CSN. xx

90!

Over and out!

CSN. xx

91! Coming in loud & clear!

We are not far off 100 now!

MM xxx

92. At 23:20

Good morning all,

I must admit to being a bit indifferent to the Olympics, that is, until I went to see the torch relay in our village and got all emotional and caught up in the excitement. I am not into sport (unless it's equestrian of course) so will probably not watch any of it, but listening to Vanessa this morning and now Chris, you just can't help but get excited about it all and I have put my bicycle bell in my bag to ring at 0812 and will definately be watching the opening ceremony this evening and lighting my candle. I have a friend who is a volunteer at the eventing and she posted a photo from Greenwich of part of the cross country course on FB yesterday and it looks fantastic.

GO TEAM GB!!!

Have a good day everyone.

X

G

Happy Olympics Day Everyone,

I am beyond excited this morning that I could burst. I've been downstairs to my cupboard to get my bell and am ready to ring it on my balcony at 8:12. It's an old school bell, so is very loud....hee hee.

Dozer, I agree Chris's excitement is catching and it's lovely listening to those involved and I'm am so happy that everything is ready.

I have friends abroad and I want them to email or FB me later today to say "wow" that was fantastic "well done GB".

AliB
xx

Hilarious

A couple of weeks ago a new neighbour moved in next door to me, who I'd not met yet. But there I was ringing my bell on the balcony and out she pops to see her "mad" neighbour. What an introduction! She seemed very nice and now of course thinks I am completely bonkers.

I couldn't hear any other bells but some cars honked their horns at me.

Right I best get to work!

AliB
xx

Hi Chris it would be nice to hear you out here in Bulgaria have listened for the last 5 yrs now we can't hear you Why? all we hear is some voice saying you are unavailable due to rights restrictions I could run into a volley of verbal telling you what i think but i'm on the radio so i won't join the BBC censor ship hope they are paying you well for any repeats enjoy your program but now listening to gold 104.3 from Australia not good but they are telling us what is happening.

Morning all!

Chris, Loving the show a lot this morning!! Hats off to all the team for the fantastic atmosphere and the perfect music.

Between you and the Lovely Lady V, What a way to wake up the nation!

Ali, Well, your neighbour won't forget you will she!! What a fab way to meet somone!

Just saw in the paper, the Torch being taken on the Glorianna Barge this morning - oh my!!!

Keep smiling - I think i will be smiling all day!

Sezza xxxx

Chris - It would have been nice to listen to you broadcasting from the Olympic Stadium today. BUT NOBODY OUTSIDE THE UK COULD HEAR YOU BECAUSE OF "RESTRICTIONS ON BROADCASTING RIGHTS".

None of us regular listeners abroad will be able to listen to your show for the next fortnight or however long you're going to be shacked up at the Olympics.

What the heck is the "restricted" content that means your entire show is blocked?????

Morning everyone

Yes, it's here at last. Well almost.

Please don't get me wrong - I am really looking forward to the Limpix but I'm just completely overwhlmed by TOO MUCH INFORMATION! Has anyone looked at the BBC Olympic web pages? TOO MUCH INFORMATION! It just gave me a headache and I clicked away from it very quickly. And how many additional HD channels on the tellybox? I fear I'll be so busy searching for stuff, that I'll actually miss it!

I'm not feeling the "Opening Ceremony Love" yet either. The Love Of My Life is partying after work with colleagues, given that his firm has done some considerable work for the Limpix, and I really hope he has fun - I've seen his stress levels over the last few months! But being really, really selfish (and probably too honest for my own good) .... a Friday night, the opening night of the biggest event we've seen for many, many years and I'll be home alone.

Oh well, back to the housework ....

Deevs
x

Hi:

What a fantastic show this morning! Well, I only heard it until 8am, but what a joy for those 90 minutes. You wouldn't think Chris could "up" his game, you would think it impossible, but he just did today! I sailed round the corner to the train station this morning.

I didn't get to hear the bells as I was on the train, but I looked at my watch for the entire three minutes and "played" the bells in my head - so glad no-one could tell what was going on in my brain!

Dozer: like you, I was rather indifferent about the Olympics, but you are right, you couldn't fail to get caught up in the excitement this morning - Vanessa was also just brilliant today.

AliB: good for you, ringing your bell! I think your neighbour will think you are terrific - that was a great thing to do this morning!

Sezza: your excitement is quite infectious!

What an historic day this is for all of us - enjoy!

C xx