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House Martin Thoughts and Ramblings
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Touched
2009-01-06 00:03:42
I wonder what one thing has made the biggest impression on you in the last few days?
Was it the the words of Annie Lennox whilst marching in London, "I don't want to take sides". I admired her speaking out for peace in Gaza.
Maybe like me you were touched by something closer to home, but no less powerful.
I find it all too easy to accept a cup of tea each morning, but I miss it on the occasion it doesn't arrive. For me this drink is usually my first connection with Roz and the day ahead. Thank you.
But, no what really bowled me over this weekend was the realization that one young "special needs" boy has a gift to make so many people happy. I was one of a number who attended a dedication service for Jacob and Toby.
Jacob is about 4 and will probably never have a "normal" life, but he has an unparalleled ability to bring a smile to your face, week in week out. We haven't been local for several weeks, but dear Jacob walked over to wave and shake hands with me once again on Sunday.
It certainly makes me think, what can do I offer to uplift those I meet each day. Can I dare to hope that each person I speak to tomorrow will feel brighter and encouraged after talking or meeting me?
Ask yourself as you leave a shop, friend, or workmate tomorrow, "Did I leave him (or her) a happier person as a result of our meeting?" It's quite a challenge.
Jacob, you're a star! Your little wave and handshake certainly touched my heart.
Seduction
2009-01-01 22:57:22
It's obvious isn't it? Seduction, that is. I tend to miss most mainstream TV shows, but after recommendation I did get to see a Nigella Christmas special. I can only say WOW!
Everything about it seemed to be calculated to perfection. Assuming Nigella writes her own scripts she appears to be a gifted wordsmith. Then there's the lighting and choice of camera angle, the Director has the lenses placed just so, and the absolute minimum of light to create a warm cosy feeling.
The food appears to be incidental, although having tasted homemade re-creations I'd have to attest to its excellence. To many the show is less about culinary excellence, and more about seduction.
It's interesting how seduction can take on a variety of guises. But perhaps sad that we aren't necessarily that cute at picking up the signals.
Eleven months ago I sat outside a showroom with my eldest son having just picked up an incredible car. The staff made me feel so special, everything gleamed and the sun was shining to make the moment even better.
Time marches on, the new toy becomes a familiar friend, then the wheels get a few marks, the interior needs a good valet, and after giving the umpteenth person a ride & having to fiddle with seats one wonders whether a change might be good thing.
Maybe something a bit more practical, and with 4 doors, and 5 seats?
Mentally one starts to plot an exit for what until recently was "a dream car".
Then our German friends decide to improve their bargain coupe, make it a bit greener, add a few bhp, subtly restyle the body and hey presto create what "Autocar" suggest is the "Best Car in the World".
Mmmmm. Interesting, maybe even worth investigating. It's a bit more than I want to spend, but it is the best car in the world! Guess what I have to drive by every time I go to Exeter?
You guessed it, said manufacturer's car showroom. The display looks splendid, isn't that white model with black stripes & decals simply awesome?
Ah, but I only popped into town for a new mattress. I drive by, I look at beds, and order a mattress. I drive home, this dream sits proudly in the showroom, come inside it seems to say. I keep going.
Postman Pat delivers EVO magazine. David Vivian agrees this new model is something special, and gives it 5 Stars. The mattress arrives, I pop back to Exeter and find myself drawn to the smouldering beauty. I even get a coffee set upon a cam shaped stainless steel triangular saucer.
The new model comes in February, but would I like to try something before then? Oh, and a limited edition model is nestling outside brimful of all the tasteful extras and carrying just 14 miles on the odometer, and all for over £10,000 less than list.
It would be oh so easy to miss, but whilst I can see through the BBCs cookery offer I am being reeled in by clever marketing, product placement and over inflated sense of self worth.
Yesterday's contentment has gone, practicality has been forgotten and I'm falling for a projectile that has but 2 seats. The seduction is so strong, temptation so hard to resist.
This is not about food, women or cars. It is about being sold a dream, or maybe an illusion. Watch out, lest you too are seduced.
Simple Pleasures
2008-12-31 19:19:54
Today Roz & I met up with some friends for a walk to Trusham, and lunch at the Cridford Inn.
At first it seemed daft as we trudged under grey skies with a faint breeze and temperature of about 2 degrees celsius.
Pretty soon we were comparing notes about our respective Christmas's and walking along the banks of the Teign. As we deliberated over the OS map I heard calls that caused me strike up a steep leaf strewn embankment. Firstly a boisterous family of Jays announced their disapproval at our presence, and secondly a Great Spotted Woodpecker called out with it's plain notes.
Scrambling along I also spotted a piece of wood too big to be a twig, and too small to be a branch. In fact it proved to be just the right length to be utilised as a make shift walking stick.
As we walked on up an ancient gully I began to bond with this piece of wood. Down a steep muddy slope the sharp point steadied me against any fall. Some time later I thought the top could do with a bit of simple engineering to create an ideal thumb hold. I suppose one could claim I tailored it to my exact needs.
Later we came to a tarmac road leading our lunch-time retreat. The stick's job had been done and I carefully disposed of it in the base of a thick hedge.
Isn't it funny how something as simple as a stick can brighten one's day? I felt that I had been carried out of a modern high tech world into a simpler more pleasant realm.
The Cridford Inn provided first class food & drink, and we wandered back home before dark. Even without my binoculars we were still able to see, Robin, Wren, Great Tit, Blue Tit, Herring Gull, Greenfinch, Chaffinch, House Sparrow, Buzzard, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Woodpigeon, Nuthatch, Green Woodpecker, Raven, Crow, Pheasant, Fieldfare, Redwing, Blackbird, Mallard, Starling, Dunnock, Magpie, Jay and even a solitary Lapwing.
Oh well, must dash there's a New Year celebration and several lemonades to be had. Happy New Year to you and yours.....
Stephen
Quick Film Reviews
2008-12-30 23:56:34
It's a rare event when I step inside a cinema. Being an old duffer if I do venture out it will be to watch a "Film", and certainly nothing as vulgar as a "Movie".
When I eventually take my seat it is usually accompanied by two disappointments. The smell from buckets of popcorn (enough to make a grown man sick), and adverts which seem to be designed to discourage anyone from ever venturing into a cinema ever again.
So maybe my look back on my favourite films is going to appear dated, but I'll add my comments for any who like me find their own home a better venue for their entertainment.
I like a good story so I'll start with a "The Flying Scotsman" None of our local cinemas bothered to show it, but the DVD was just as satisfying to watch as the Radio 4 Front Row review promised. The film is based upon the great Graham Obree who set world Endurance records on a bicycle made out of odds & ends including part of his wife's washing machine. That first record was covering 51.596 km in one hour (over 32 miles).
What surprised me most was just how much opposition Graham had to overcome to achieve his dream of setting a new world record. Despite apparent failure and total disinterest from the establishment Graham rises from despair to triumph inside 24 hours. If one day is a long time in politics than 24 hours in a velodrome must be an eternity.
I'd give the Jonny Lee Miller 8 out of 10, and the original hero 10 out of 10. Try watching this if you're feeling low, it might be just the encouragement you need to tackle your next impossible task.
Tonight I watched Anthony Hopkins put in a masterful performance as Burt, an elderly Kiwi who set a landspeed record riding an ancient Indian motorbike. No I don't mean the Royal Enfield replica, but a 1920s bike which started life with a top speed of less than 60 mph.
The World's Fastest Indian's big surprise is that the script allowed us an insight into the charming world of a polite, but elderly guy Burt Munro who (given his health problems) might appear more suited to a bungalow in Worthing than a streamlined motorbike on Utah's Salt Flats.
Like Graham Obree determination wins through, although Burt didn't appear to battle with self doubt at any stage. For me the charm that Burt showed as he ignored the Stateside impersonality was both a challenge and encouragement. I find it all too easy to get flustered by what I deem to be an inappropriate approach or greeting.
Burt manages to take a miserable cab driver, an interesting hotel receptionist and several policemen in his stride, rather than getting all defensive or indeed judgemental.
So this film offered both lessons for life as well as an historical insight. The story meant that Roz could enjoy a show which I'd I have thought could easily have lacked anything to keep her interested. We both laughed out loud when Burt tried to sleep in a sleazy motel.
I'd give Anthony Hopkins 10 out of 10 for his performance, and the director (Roger Donaldson) an equal endorsement.
My only negative on this one, is that it suggested the record was set on a one way timed run. Correct me if I am wrong, surely he would have had to do 2 runs in one hour and the average speed would then be used to establish any record?
Stephen (bring back The Marx Brothers) Biggs
Proposed Closure of Caterham Marie Curie Hospice
2008-12-29 15:04:41
My son, Ben was cared for both at the hospice and latterly at home, prior to his death on 29th September 08 at the age of 20. The superb care he received both in the hospice and at home put all our lives into perspective.
Marie Curie find increasingly people wish to be at home and that their future resources will not cover the cost of this and the hospice.
We need to remember that Marie Curie is a charitable organisation, relying on funding by the public.
So if we want the hospice to remain open, it is not of Marie Curie we should be asking the question, but of ourselves.
Michael.
My Big Mouth
2008-12-27 15:41:06
Trust me to come up with a brilliant new idea, see New Freedom Tax blog 21/11/08. I read in the paper that the government is indeed looking at taxing the people whao have accidents. Brilliant.
Why did I ever think of it in the first place?
The greedy government are adding this as a new tax, rather than subsituting it for the one which is already in place. So watch out if you do 33mph in a 30mph zone, they still want your money.
Isn't it incredible the country is reeling and the best the polticians can do is take another snipe at the motorist. When will they wake up & actually have some genuine new ideas, like running government efficiently rather than with tiers of middle management in the NHS, but not enough kit for Hospitals to treat their patients?
Stephen
News?
2008-12-26 17:15:45
Isn't it great having no news! Holidays do that to me. Do we need it all? Bombarded with information we have no need for and which has no impact on our lives. Yet we have little contact with what is happening locally and even regionally. It makes a soap opera of information, detaching us from our real lives. Ban the stuff, filter it out and concentrate on what's really impacting.
Michael
The Best Gift Ever
2008-12-24 00:52:19
Here we are on the verge of another Christmas Day.
I wonder how you feel about Christmas? Is it a time of cheer, or a time of dread?
For me it is a time for reflection, and an opportunity to marvel at the ultimate gift. A gift for even those who appear to have everything, and a gift to be appreciated by those who have virtually nothing.
One can argue about the exact day, but at least here is a time when much of the world can marvel that God sent his only son, Jesus, Emmanuel as a gift for each one of us, regardless of our background, finances, or even beliefs.
If you unwrap a present from Marks & Spencers or Argos you might possibly decide it isn't for you, and wander in to customer services for a refund or exchange.
The birth of Jesus is a gift too great to refuse, the ultimate present for people in a world that has been messed up by each one us, and our forefathers. Without this gift there is no hope, no peace, no prospect of a bright eternity.
What will be your response?
How wonderful that we cannot earn God's favour, He has provided The Way, The Truth and The Life in His Son.
Ponder the last verse of a well known Christmas Carol,
What can I give Him poor as I am? If I were a shepherd I would bring a lamb; If I were a Wise Man I would do my part; yet what can I give Him: give Him my heart.
Yes, Jesus really did come into a world that had no room for Him. He came to give life, and give it abundantly. In 32 years I have not once regretted my decision to, "Give Him My Heart".
Taste and See That The Lord is Good, and have a Merry Christmas.
Stephen Biggs
Accepting things the way they are.
2008-12-23 14:40:07
In the Zen tradition, they tell the story of a poor farmer who lost his only horse. His friends and neighbours bemoaned his plight, but he seemed unperturbed. "Well see," he said with a smile.
Several days later, his horse returned with a herd of five wild stallions that had joined it along the way. His neighbours rejoiced in his good fortune, but he did not appear to be excited. "Well see," he said again.
The following week, while attempting to ride and tame one of the stallions, his beloved, only son fell and broke his leg. The ever-solicitous neighbours were beside themselves with grief, but the farmer, though he felt comforted and cared for the boy, did not seem concerned about the future. "Well see," he mused.
At the end of the month, the local warlord arrived at the farmer's village to conscript all the health young men to fight in the latest campaign. However, the farmer's son....well, you can imagine the rest of the story.
Try as you might, so much of life you cannot control, if you want to hold on to your sanity, you need to maintain your peace of mind.
Michael.
Embrace the Change
2008-12-22 17:03:56
It seems that everywhere we turn there is nothing but doom & gloom.
Yesterday I learnt that a life long friend had been backed into a corner and decided to resign, today I discovered two guys on site who were still working conscientously, but have been given the push (one after 16 years service).
One thing does appears to be certain. Whilst 2008 has seen international destabilisation 2009 will amost certainly be even more challenging.
What are you going to do? What is House Martin intending to do? What am I personally intending to do about this cloud on the horizon.
It appears that the first step to take is realise what is happening and take action. But wait what sort of action? I believe the first step is to stop and take stock of all the blessings we enjoy right now, even in the current economic climate.
In comparison with the Third World we have so much to be thankful about. We have had so many good years, and enjoyed unparalleled prosperity compared to that which our grandparents might ever have anticipated.
Success for many in 2009 may be best rooted in a state of mind. What is our attitude going to be as we see 2009 approach? More than any amount money our attitude can dictate our level of happiness and contentment in the New Year.
Certainly it would do us all good to plan a realistic way forward, but let's avoid burying our head in the sand hoping tomorrow will go away. At House Martin we are taking strategic steps to grow in new areas. Personally I will do all that I can to appreciate the good things that come our way.
It may be the best thing for a nation if we can turn from the barometer of wealth, and resurrect the spirit which kept us great in the tough times of the World Wars and barren years of post-war austerity. I trust that we can all get through 2009 and be stronger through the lessons it teaches us.
Stephen
Father Christmas Speaks Out
2008-12-19 00:24:10
Has anyone noticed that the Head of the Church of England looks like an ideal candidate for a red coat, sleigh and reindeer?
He already has the beard and looks the right age.
Much to my surprise he has actually spoken out clearly and denounced the Government's handling of the economy by stating,"It seems a bit like the addict returning to the drug".
Let's hope someone listens before you and I are left with a billion pound burden to assist TATA who are looking for handout to help Jaguar & Land Rover. On the surface Madelson's brief has some logic, but what else has been annouced by Tata this week? Yes, they are looking to sponsor the Ferrari F1 team.
At least the chiefs of GM, Chrysler and Ford had the decency to leave their private jets behind and travel on commercial flights after seeking state aid. It appears the Indian industrialist has more cheek than most.
Has everyone forgotten the consequences of the Government's decision to sell The Rover Group for a measly £250,000? Four men walked off laughing with millions, and made our politicians look complete idiots. How many jobs were saved? None.
So let us hope that UK Plc doesn't dip into non existent reserves to bolster the empire of a man who took a business decisions just a few months back and should be made to live with the consequences.
Perhaps after his busy period Downing Street could call in Father Christmas, he might be just what the country needs.
Stephen
Free View
2008-12-18 16:53:30
During December we are spending several days each week at a secluded cliff top location in Whitsand Bay, Cornwall. In many ways we are insulated against the doom and gloom in the economy.
Just think for a moment, if you could wake up every morning with a 180 degree panoramic sea view (and usually sunshine) would your quality of life improve?
Some days we have strolled along the broad sandy beaches, and others we have taken short trips in the car. What has really given us a boost is being so close to nature.
Our alarm call is a boisterous male pheasant thats flys past about 8.30am, breakfast has been enjoyed whilst watching dolpins playing & our end of day trips are brightened up by a spectacular sunsets and a Barn Owl near Tregantle Fort.
Sky, BT Vision or Freeview? I know which one gives the most pleasure Free View!
Stephen
Red Button?
2008-12-05 23:43:35
Once upon a time, a long, long ago I was forced to do Metal work at Purley Grammar School for Boys. At the height of my productivity I managed to make a rather inferior paint scraper during the course of a whole term.
As I sit here pondering Honda's decision to pull out of the multi-million pound F1 merry-go-round I can't help remembering toiling away at a lathe on bleak grey afternoons. If my memory serves me correctly this was the one time (other than during sports activities) where we were allowed freedom from our school tie. Bear in mind this was during the 70s before the HSE grew big teeth & Political Correctness hadn't been invented.
BUT....we were quickly introduced to a BIG RED BUTTON at knee height, which had the word STOP printed on it. Our tutor made sure that we understood that we could quickly kill the motor without using our hands in the event of an emergency.
Whilst I never had to use it in an emergency it seems that Jenson Button's Japanese employers have hit the metaphorical button with their metaphorical knees.
And I for one congratulate them. Rather than blindly carrying on (or crying to the Government) they are tightening their belts in difficult times. Shoudn't we all do the same?
Mortgage Holidays, crazy low interest rates, subsidies & bail out for industry can only spell a bigger disaster around the corner. Let's all grow up & live within our means - it really will be better for everyone.
Stephen
National Trust
2008-11-28 01:01:30
Looking for something to do on a wet afternoon? Maybe you might try dropping in on your nearest National Trust property. The pleasant lady signing up new members at Lanhydrock was like a ray of sunshine on an overcast day, and made us aware of their offers and value.
Inside we were able to view everything from frightening looking Zinc sinks in the kitchen through to fabulous plaster ceilings depicting the early books of the Bible.
Later in the brief moments between heavy rain & torrential hailstorms we saw the deep colours of a broad rainbow. Glorious.
A few days on from the chancellor's speech I find myself pondering that there is no longer National Trust in a government that resorts to borrowing in good times, borrowing in bad times. So if you have any pennies left in your wallet why not invest in our heritage? Soon it may be all we have left.
Stephen
Shepherd's Delight
2008-11-24 22:01:31
After a productive day in the office how delightful to come home to the most magnificent orange sky and awesome sunset. Looking across to the moors a leafless oak on the skyline produced a wondrous silhouette. By the time I'd returned home the wavy orange glow looked like a Western replica of The Aurora Borealis - FANTASTIC.
On top of all this we have news of a VAT rate cut. I just wonder whether this tinkering with fiscal policy will bring the economic equivalent of what usually follows a red sky at night? It certainly seems like a bold move.
Way back when we last had a potential VAT rate change (from 15 to 17.5%) on domestic goods I rushed out to buy our first ever TV. We had managed for 8 years of married life without one, but the thought of paying extra tax actually propelled us into a purchase we would quite happily of put off for quite some time.
So who knows? Maybe the hard pressed car dealerships & struggling retail sector will wake up to a bright new era. I certainly hope so, there are so many jobs at stake.
Stephen
Eco Products
2008-11-24 15:06:35
Any one notice how often so called 'Eco Products' are seem to be just rubbish or simply pointless? Do a search of web sites and have a look. I wonder how they would fare without the 'eco badge'.? Would they be taken seriously?
There is a market, but customers need to be treated with respect and be offered serious alternatives that are a benefit as well as a lifestyle choice. Quality and function that compete on thier own merits.
Design some real 'Eco Products', please.
MICHAEL.
Good Service
2008-11-22 20:29:43
I have just come home after a pleasant time in Exeter. Full marks to Zoltan in the Apple Store who has a wonderful relaxed way of training me on the art of using a MacBook. How the team in there manage to keep so calm & helpful at the end of a busy Saturday beats me.
After my obligatory hour learning more about Aperture 2, and i Cal it was time for an evening meal. Once again we dropped into Strada. If you haven't checked out Strada yet, then you must. We were amazed to find out on The Money Saving Expert site by Martin Lewis that this restaurant is part of a chain. The wonderful thing is they always make you feel welcome, and always serve good (Italian) food. £32.49 for a 3 course meal for 2 of us is good value.
Congratulations to Strada & Apple for making us feel special.
STEPHEN
New Freedom Tax?
2008-11-21 15:31:26
The Government seems to have a vendetta against us ordinary folk. How alarming to read the latest proposal that motorists face losing their licence after two offences.
We do our best on poorly maintained roads, paying outrageous fuel taxes and could see many hard working souls forced out of employment by the draft (daft?) proposal.
In our small town I can think of two considerate ladies who have had bans for exceeding a 30 mph limit which just a few years ago was a 40mph zone. One of these lost her job, and another was unable to fulfil her duties providing valuable care in the community.
When will our smartest brains work out that most people drive to the conditions every day without incident, but a minority are regularly crashing cars - witness the numerous "Bodywork Courtesy Cars".
There is a fairer way to raise revenue. Why not fine the drivers who actually have accidents, rather than those who might have them!
Hmmmm.....
2008-11-20 09:39:18
Michael was told by his teacher that next week the class would be gven a surprise test. Michael realised that if the test was not given by thursday then on friday it would not be a surprise. Therefore it could not be on friday. If it could not be on friday, on wednesday the same logic would apply to thusday. Following this reasoning he was able to work back through the week to conclude that a surprise test was not possible. Safe in this knowledge, there was not point in revising. He was therefore most surprised the following week to be given a suprise test. How could this be so?
MICHAEL
