Jules-and-Boo

I don't get the people who hate the Tories, hate the Leavers and hate Corbyn. Not really sure where they're going or what they want. Well, they want open EU, open immigration and lower taxes, a healthy NHS and trains to run efficiently (not privatised). When asking how it all actually works, I don't get a response. Open to suggestions...

like WMD and Tony Blair? That was huge!

A very big difference between 40 years ago and now - rather than naively saying people were less passionate, less determined and less persistent - is the fact that social media has made it possible for groups to connect now. Where would the Remain / Lack of democracy (etc.) group be now, if the playing field were level to that of 40 years ago - pre-internet? Slightly misplaced arrogance with that point, Frank.

No direct experience, except I would just do it. It's not changing usage of a room or moving sewage pipes. how long have you owned the flat? Are the walls stated on the leasehold? Mine weren't, so I moved internal walls. Nothing supporting/ structural though

...and artisan organic anything while you're there....

posh festivals - with photo id, phone chargers and cash points

Yes - agreed they could be clearer on price - perhaps let them know it is frustrating for the customers - they may not realise. They are volunteers in the shop. It doesn't have the same staff cohesion as most places, as the staff are often irregular so they may have different direction. I worked in one and it was really good fun. All sorts of people both coming in AND working there. I would just say, don't expect too much.

RH - would also like to think so too, but sadly not the case. We looked at hats in the market and also Sweaty Betty - both with real fur on their bobble hats - it's really unnecessary, given both the cruelty of fur farms and the alternatives available. It shouldn't really be in mainstream shops, as people are likely to buy it without giving it a second thought.

People with fur on their bobble hats or on the trim on their hoods. This is London - not the arctic and fur is just impossibly cruel. And you should know better. So you're either ignorant - which is unforgiveable, or you know exactly what cruelty is involved and don't care - which is worse.

I would hope that this is taken more in the context in which it is intended - which is to let us know so we can be watchful and aware of a potential situation for ourselves.

Jungle

from my own experience of having to work and the glory of hindsight, life would have been so much easier if I'd swapped nursery / after school club for a childminder who would ensure the kids are home at a good time, eaten, bathed and all chilled. If you have the luxury of not working at all, I would strongly recommend going for it. Childhood years are short and the more time you have available for your children the better. There a many people who do other things in their day - you could perhaps look laterally and see aht alternatives are available to you then your current job. My friend - mother of three young children, one on the spectrum, has stopped working her day job and is homeschooling her children. She has become a successful author and blogger and the voice for a number of child-related companies. You never know how anything will turn out. But one thing you cannot undo is time lost. Give it a year or so and find a new job if you find you can't abide not working. Or ask work for a sabbatical. Or reduced hours for a period of time. Child care is expensive and it doesn't stop when kids are at school.

getting a letter from school today to inform me that my little one has been recognised for outstanding behaviour :-)

Don't apologise any more. This is not reasonable behaviour on their part. The relationship is not balanced. They are threatening, you are being defensive. Are they owners or tenants? You could ascertain what they feel so offended about. Then see if you can find a remedy. If it's only due to being annoyed you didn't ask their permission, they would be largely over-reacting. Are you sure it's not something else? You really need to find out what the problem is. What happens on the twice-weekly visits? What are the emails? If they're threatening, I would be concerned. Depending on the aggression it might be a police matter. If something escalates they would be better to have been informed.

Europe has never had more than 50 years peace? I'm not disputing the union post war at all, or what it represents. The fallout from EU is not about peace.

It's a big "IF" from Churchill. Rather reminiscent of Sparta's weight of the word.

Music

I don't think we should wait for May - or anyone else - to make that suggestion or to give us permission. We all have the ability without it being bestowed upon us.

Beckham's an advert for consumerism and is as shallow as anything. Can't argue for her value as an inspiration to the younger generation. Newspapers today - she's not happy being averagely rich, she wants to climb and be among the super rich. First world problem, Vic. Farage - well... can I add Katie Hopkins to those who shouldn't?

My lowlight has been witnessing a work friend suffer a breakdown of the worst possible kind. Seeing fragility in people and at the same time seeing how easily people take up an opportunity to be hurtful. We all need to be kinder to each other - the whole political shake up should not be used to turn us against each other - as it has with families torn over Brexit. With the media inciting hatred and all sorts of lies to stir up this very negativity, we should all be even more mindful to be considerate and compassionate. Even if it is very testing at times.

having a snooze yesterday afternoon - other half cooking roast dinner. Can't recall when either happened last. Lovely!

thank you! That's brilliant :-)

Happy, Peaceful Christmas, ED. Enjoy being with your friends and families. If you look back on the year and what has happened, forget the politics - look back at good things you have done and things you have learned. Jules and Boo

that's admirable - I hope they were suitably appreciated

Try asking for help. Say you've got a bad wrist or something = they'll get someone to pack for you as they want you out of the way. Whatever you do - just be nice - the staff must be under a lot of pressure this time of year. Well...unless you go to a nice shop and then they'll actually want to help. I like Waitrose in Canary Wharf on Sunday as it's pretty empty.