Absolutely Anything Else

@fluffy2560
It will be 3rd not 2nd if they beat France. - @SimCityAT

Quite right!  My bad!

Please do not start me up on cabbage soup.
Placed a head of cabbage in the new fridge too close to the side and it half way froze.
I dislike food waste so decided last night to toss out the spongy half and make cabbage soup with the rest.
I call it Poop Soup!
Rethinking having it again! - @Marilyn Tassy
You could perhaps have cooked it up with caraway seeds. I've had spicy cabbage soup like that and it was really rather nice. I am in no way a fan of cabbage (except white cabbage in coleslaw) but it was good to have spicy cabbage that one time. It was more like the cabbage was the bulk filler for the sauce. Still, made it palatable. I hated boiled cabbage in school. Awful. - @fluffy2560

Not to stereotype myself or anyone but the Slav in me usually loves cabbage.

Red or white.

I do make a killer red cabbage with caraway seeds and grated apples, nice side dish.

Since I was ill, my entire system has changed super sensitive to foods now.

Boiled cabbage, mom used to put slices of cabbage in her Sunday roast pan , some beef roast, carrots,cabbage and potatoes, made homemade gravy too.

What I would give for one more of her Sunday roasts.

Not to stereotype myself or anyone but the Slav in me usually loves cabbage.
Red or white.
I do make a killer red cabbage with caraway seeds and grated apples, nice side dish.
Since I was ill, my entire system has changed super sensitive to foods now.
Boiled cabbage, mom used to put slices of cabbage in her Sunday roast pan , some beef roast, carrots,cabbage and potatoes, made homemade gravy too.
What I would give for one more of her Sunday roasts. - @Marilyn Tassy

I forgot about red cabbage.  Good call.   

Yes, that's the one, with grated apples.  Very nice.  The apples obviously covers the cabbage's negatives.

Not had slices of cabbage in the roast pan but when did I last have a roast with the trimmings?   I cannot even remember that.  I was at a restaurant and had some but that's not the same.   

We should do something as we have a house full - three lads (incl. our son) and two lasses (incl. our daughter and her friend from Munich) plus Mrs F and I and plus the cat and dog.  9 occupants in total.  I don't know why but we have collected all the "strays"  joining  us at Fluffy Towers.   

BTW, one of the lads brought his telescope.  He set it up to see Saturn and yup, I saw it too!  Incredible, even the rings were visible.  It's taken 60+ years for me to see Saturn "live".

We're having a day trip to Balaton as well today.  We'll really pushing it as we can only go in the afternoon.  The traffic will be horrendous as everyone will be rushing there due to the continuing heatwave.

Sounds like a nice weekend of activity.

I do miss family at times but then again...

It is usually all or nothing.

When we had our last sibling reunion in Vegas, IDK, felt like an outsider for some reason.

Everyone was nice to me, my deceased now brother was extra nice with me.

Guess living in another country was the issue? My life does not relate to theirs.

It is OK, just like old times in the end.

Sad stupid thing, when my brother and his wife drove off to go home my soul told me I would never see him again. I hate the fact that it turned out like that. A sad feeling overcame me as he was waving good-bye. Could not shake off the feeling.

Enjoy it even if it wears you out!

Chatted with our son today, he wants me to visit Japan, I really would like to but can not leave my husband alone for long.

My husband does not enjoy being around our DIL so will not go.

Hungarians can be too stubborn at times, one of their quirks that I do not enjoy.

Sounds like a nice weekend of activity.I do miss family at times but then again...It is usually all or nothing.When we had our last sibling reunion in Vegas, IDK, felt like an outsider for some reason.Everyone was nice to me, my deceased now brother was extra nice with me.Guess living in another country was the issue? My life does not relate to theirs.It is OK, just like old times in the end.Sad stupid thing, when my brother and his wife drove off to go home my soul told me I would never see him again. I hate the fact that it turned out like that. A sad feeling overcame me as he was waving good-bye. Could not shake off the feeling.Enjoy it even if it wears you out!Chatted with our son today, he wants me to visit Japan, I really would like to but can not leave my husband alone for long.My husband does not enjoy being around our DIL so will not go.Hungarians can be too stubborn at times, one of their quirks that I do not enjoy. - @Marilyn Tassy

We're leaving our son here with his clone friends as they are planning to make burgers and maybe go in the pop up pool.  Well, fine, it's so blinking hot, it's probably a very reasonable alternative than sight-seeing down at Tihany and being under the beating sun.  It's almost 33C.   I've just been told, swimming on the North side of Balaton is in the plans.

I know what you mean about disappearing off never  to be seen again. I knew I'd never  see my bro when I left him in his hospital bed setup in his house - govt National Health Service healthcare provided it.  I am not sure how much he would have understood anyway if I stopped to sit and chat.  He could hardly speak.  His brain cancer was destroying his mind.  It was inevitable he would pass.  He departed about 3 weeks afterwards.  I simply could not stand to stay. I was in tears when I reached the end of the street.  Not something I wanted to experience. I had to go back to the airport as I had to get back to work in Africa.  When I was there, I got the call it was over. I remember it exactly.

BTW, you could always meet your son "half way". I've mentioned it before - Guam or Marianas Islands.  US territory so no paperwork but utter rip off United Airlines island hopper.  I personally do not like Guam. It's a dump.  Never  been to the Marianas but could be fun.  Philippines is quite good too and easy to get to but Manila is a little overwhelming.

I do agree, it's hard to say when one becomes an outsider. I've just received an invitation to meet my niece and her kids and my sister in Liverpool in August. I have not seen any of them for maybe 3 years. My life is here.  My sister came back to England from the Pacific region when she was 4 years old (born in Australia) and they arrived on a ship at Liverpool so it was a bit of nostalgia.

So I'm working on my eldest daughter coming along as well (as she lives in NW England, within easy reach).  I tend to forget others have to work so it'd be a day or afternoon off for her. 

I wish my parents had not gone back to the UK after their Pacific adventures.  They had the choice to go back to Australia from Pacific islands they were in (British Colony) or return to the UK.  It was a long journey (30 days) so decided to put the cost back on the Colonial Government.  In retrospect, it was a mistake to come back.  But at the time, there was not actually any difference between Australia, NZ, the UK or any of the Colonies.  It was all the Empire.  If they had returned to Australia before 1973, then we'd have all been part of the Lucky Country.

Real Football:

England vs France, 23h CET (22h BST). 

This is for Bronze or third place.  Mbappe/Dembele vs Kane/Bellingham - who can say about that competitive difference. I'm predicting 1-1 with penalties as the decider.

Tomorrow is the big one -  Argentina vs Spain for the WC (20h BST, 21h CET).   Maybe 100M+ people will be watching.  Probably one of the largest sporting events this century.  That's two teams known for pushing the limits of the rules.

(p.s.  Trump stuck his face in it again over Tuchel's tactics.  Like Donny knows anything about it. Anyone in Europe and places like South America or Africa, know everything about it as we've been brought up on it since year dot).

I bet your son and his friends had a blast having the house to themselves, better check the wine supply!!

Just kidding but do remember being a teen myself!

Had 2 friends whos, parents had an open bar, Holly super smart  and born on the same day and probably close to the same time as me opened up a locker bar in our school lockers!

We would buy a coke from the cafe and fill it up with rum!

,Just a little cocktail at lunchtime like millions of people do!

Got busted, the super sweet Mexican lady who walked the school hallways somehow found out and never told the office on us; She just asked if we would dump it out and not do it again.

We kept our promise, she never said anything though about smoking grass on the grass!

Holly I found out did herself in when we were 33. She always was half on the edge of reality but so smart at the same time. Her father was a perm resident at Camerillo state mental hospital and her mom had visited a few funny farms in the past.

Must of been something in the DNA of that family? IDK, my mom, the part native with a super strong 6th sense always had a fit when I would go off alone with Holly. She thought something was, screwy.with her and often asked me to see other friends instead.

Poor Holly, too sensitive and too misunderstood.

We went to the water yesterday, was nice to feel the wind on our bare skin for a few hours.

Summer is half over with already, hard to believe.

Got some disturbing news about my bro Lon.

He seems to have lost everything he ever had.

I am so mad at people, his own son for sure is an idiot.

His son,s GF somehow got access to Lon,s bank account. $30.000 gone never to be seen again!!!!

First they trash his van, steal his money and leave him hanging;

I want to tell Lon so badly to take his son off his life insurance policy, he does not deserve a dime.

I am putting off calling my bro because I am afraid I may cross the line and say too much of what is not my business.

My cousin in NM has written his probation officer and told her she has a place for Lon and is going to help him find his own place shortly afterwards. She already found a apt; in the same complex where her son and his wife live. Nice if family is close by when he needs help.

Time will tell if Lon excepts the offer or not. He should get out of Ca.

Man, I was so upset hearing about him losing his savings, felt like it was me who got scammed.

IDK, I mentioned to my cousin that Lon should at least report it to the police and of course to the fraud dept; of his bank. Not sure they can do anything now but worth a try.

I do not care if that women does time at all, she deserves it.

I can only wish to have such problems as lottery winners have. Watched a few videos on winners who were done in within 24 hours of winning a prize just because people knew they had won.

That is crazy. Why then are not the rich targets? You would think so,not mega rich with security but just your average upper middle classes.

Never tell anyone you won , wish though that I had that problem!

They say if you ever win the lotto to ask to borrow money from others, see how they react before sharing any winnings with anyone.

Sounds like a nice weekend of activity.I do miss family at times but then again...It is usually all or nothing.When we had our last sibling reunion in Vegas, IDK, felt like an outsider for some reason.Everyone was nice to me, my deceased now brother was extra nice with me.Guess living in another country was the issue? My life does not relate to theirs.It is OK, just like old times in the end.Sad stupid thing, when my brother and his wife drove off to go home my soul told me I would never see him again. I hate the fact that it turned out like that. A sad feeling overcame me as he was waving good-bye. Could not shake off the feeling.Enjoy it even if it wears you out!Chatted with our son today, he wants me to visit Japan, I really would like to but can not leave my husband alone for long.My husband does not enjoy being around our DIL so will not go.Hungarians can be too stubborn at times, one of their quirks that I do not enjoy. - @Marilyn Tassy
We're leaving our son here with his clone friends as they are planning to make burgers and maybe go in the pop up pool. Well, fine, it's so blinking hot, it's probably a very reasonable alternative than sight-seeing down at Tihany and being under the beating sun. It's almost 33C. I've just been told, swimming on the North side of Balaton is in the plans.
I know what you mean about disappearing off never to be seen again. I knew I'd never see my bro when I left him in his hospital bed setup in his house - govt National Health Service healthcare provided it. I am not sure how much he would have understood anyway if I stopped to sit and chat. He could hardly speak. His brain cancer was destroying his mind. It was inevitable he would pass. He departed about 3 weeks afterwards. I simply could not stand to stay. I was in tears when I reached the end of the street. Not something I wanted to experience. I had to go back to the airport as I had to get back to work in Africa. When I was there, I got the call it was over. I remember it exactly.

BTW, you could always meet your son "half way". I've mentioned it before - Guam or Marianas Islands. US territory so no paperwork but utter rip off United Airlines island hopper. I personally do not like Guam. It's a dump. Never been to the Marianas but could be fun. Philippines is quite good too and easy to get to but Manila is a little overwhelming.

I do agree, it's hard to say when one becomes an outsider. I've just received an invitation to meet my niece and her kids and my sister in Liverpool in August. I have not seen any of them for maybe 3 years. My life is here. My sister came back to England from the Pacific region when she was 4 years old (born in Australia) and they arrived on a ship at Liverpool so it was a bit of nostalgia.

So I'm working on my eldest daughter coming along as well (as she lives in NW England, within easy reach). I tend to forget others have to work so it'd be a day or afternoon off for her.

I wish my parents had not gone back to the UK after their Pacific adventures. They had the choice to go back to Australia from Pacific islands they were in (British Colony) or return to the UK. It was a long journey (30 days) so decided to put the cost back on the Colonial Government. In retrospect, it was a mistake to come back. But at the time, there was not actually any difference between Australia, NZ, the UK or any of the Colonies. It was all the Empire. If they had returned to Australia before 1973, then we'd have all been part of the Lucky Country. - @fluffy2560

If we were to see our boy it would be going to Japan or him coming here.

I am not interested in Guam or anywhere else; Paying for hotel, rental car etc; and eating out would be too much. Any visit we would wish for would be for several months and not going to break the bank to see anywhere.

I spent so much , some of it was not planned on that 6 day Vegas trip.

I thought I was going budget, if spending over$3,500 for 6 days is budget then forget about an average stay!

I was lucky enough to be treated to almost every meal out, only bought myself lunch once and once had a small side salad for dinner alone.

I was too excited, too busy and too unnerved to think much about food.

Bought a couple of beers , otherwise did not party at all.

So many hidden costs in Vegas with the hotel and rental car, really was scary for someone who might not have a back up plan.

I had planned on filling up my suitcase with new clothing and items but when I saw the offerings and the prices, i said no way. Just got a couple of things not near what I planned on purchasing.

You can find just about the same things here in Hungary if you look long enough.

Hmm, growing up in Australia would be a totally different experience then the UK. Even under the same gov.

Being a surfer rather then a dart player for one.

I sometimes wish my parents had stayed in Conn;

We had a very large extended family in Conn; and hardly any in Ca.

I know what HS in Conn; I would of gone to if we had stayed. Pulaski High.

It was closed in 1982.

I probably would of married a local Polish boy or an Italian like my 4 aunties did.

That was the demographics of the town.

I bet your son and his friends had a blast having the house to themselves, better check the wine supply!!Just kidding but do remember being a teen myself!Had 2 friends whos, parents had an open bar, Holly super smart and born on the same day and probably close to the same time as me opened up a locker bar in our school lockers!We would buy a coke from the cafe and fill it up with rum!,Just a little cocktail at lunchtime like millions of people do!Got busted, the super sweet Mexican lady who walked the school hallways somehow found out and never told the office on us; She just asked if we would dump it out and not do it again.We kept our promise, she never said anything though about smoking grass on the grass!Holly I found out did herself in when we were 33. She always was half on the edge of reality but so smart at the same time. Her father was a perm resident at Camerillo state mental hospital and her mom had visited a few funny farms in the past.Must of been something in the DNA of that family? IDK, my mom, the part native with a super strong 6th sense always had a fit when I would go off alone with Holly. She thought something was, screwy.with her and often asked me to see other friends instead.Poor Holly, too sensitive and too misunderstood.We went to the water yesterday, was nice to feel the wind on our bare skin for a few hours.Summer is half over with already, hard to believe. Got some disturbing news about my bro Lon.He seems to have lost everything he ever had.I am so mad at people, his own son for sure is an idiot.His son,s GF somehow got access to Lon,s bank account. $30.000 gone never to be seen again!!!!First they trash his van, steal his money and leave him hanging;I want to tell Lon so badly to take his son off his life insurance policy, he does not deserve a dime.I am putting off calling my bro because I am afraid I may cross the line and say too much of what is not my business.My cousin in NM has written his probation officer and told her she has a place for Lon and is going to help him find his own place shortly afterwards. She already found a apt; in the same complex where her son and his wife live. Nice if family is close by when he needs help.Time will tell if Lon excepts the offer or not. He should get out of Ca.Man, I was so upset hearing about him losing his savings, felt like it was me who got scammed.IDK, I mentioned to my cousin that Lon should at least report it to the police and of course to the fraud dept; of his bank. Not sure they can do anything now but worth a try.I do not care if that women does time at all, she deserves it.I can only wish to have such problems as lottery winners have. Watched a few videos on winners who were done in within 24 hours of winning a prize just because people knew they had won.That is crazy. Why then are not the rich targets? You would think so,not mega rich with security but just your average upper middle classes.Never tell anyone you won , wish though that I had that problem!They say if you ever win the lotto to ask to borrow money from others, see how they react before sharing any winnings with anyone. - @Marilyn Tassy

Our son phoned us to ask if he and his friends could drink the beer in the fridge.  Mrs F said it was OK.  It wasn't proper beer. It's like one of those flavoured ones.  Mango beer?  WTF?  Anyway, the beer has gone.  And our son was out all night and only came back this morning.  He said he was at a jacuzzi party.  All night.   At least he has rich friends.  Well, I hope so anyway.  Mrs F is monitoring his phone location.  I tried to get our daughter to agree to monitoring and she said, absolutely not.  I can understand it.  We only want to know for safety. I permanently share my location with Mrs F and the others.   They only don't know if the battery is flat or I'm on the plane.

It's not for me to say really but if that Lon problem riled me up,   if I was Lon, I'd tell the cops after I'd told the GF to give the cash back.   There's no way that money is coming back if he does nothing and it's a fair chunk of change that he needs to get his life in order.  Maybe he needs to hide in a cabin in the woods if he can. It seems some people are out to get him.     And yes, getting that life insurance policy changed would be a good idea.  If they can rip off Dad, then they could possibly think of the next stage which is a one way trip to the desert to cash in that policy.    Maybe the cash has gone on meth or something drug related. 

Of course, one cannot benefit from a crime - well, not in my country.  Like becoming a serial killer and selling one's life story to the papers or publishers for $10M.  Any funds received have to go on restitution for the victims.

We're supposedly down at the lake tomorrow - we were already there on Friday and it was steaming.  We've hit a hurdle.  We've got too many cars (3 here) and they are all broken or MIA except one.  We usually need two cars to get to Balaton as we have to transport the dog, cat, bikes, tools, blow up toys and firewood.  But tomorrow, we've only got one available as one is being tested by the government and another is being repaired.  So it looks like a kind transport service is needed to shuttle our gear down there.  It's like a perfect storm of insufficient transport.

And the bad news piles on.  One of my very good friends, WhatsApp'd me and showed him in the hospital ICU with pipes sticking out of him.  He said he had a massive heart attack.   Since then, nothing, nada, zilch.  I hope he hasn't popped his clogs.  We had a road trip planned for my next visit to the UK.  His wife died about a year ago (alcoholic) and now he's copped a hospital stay.   Not a good thing.  I don't even know which hospital he's in but I do have details of his brothers so I can ask them. 

The Joys of old age!!

I do seriously hope your friend is OK; just busy with silly details etc;You will hear from him soon enough. It could be he is busy . I am fine and dandy if I pop off but worry about those I have tired to uplift.

Not like I did anything to give them a leg up but my semi - rational nature and good vibes helped them. At least I hope so.

Not bragging but if one is in my circle, not to be in the occult, I have your back. The occult is into circles.Weird how some churches like people to gather in a circle...

Whatever that is worth.

Cheers to your boy! he is just doing what any young man needs to experience;

Very nice he can do this is the safety of a loving home.

In my day it was, Boones Farm Strawberry Hill wine!

My bro Lon was in charge of mowing our lawn picking up any trash around our home for 6 weeks while we visited HU.

Neighbors later said they picked up beer cans etc from the pool partites he had while the cat was away.

Good thing we did not leave the house keys to him or my cra-cra, fun sister.

My Vegas friend is so strong,the things her body is doing would put a  6 foot 8 300 lbs. man to his knees.

Last time I saw her, I am not an overly physical person, I crashed to the floor and rubbed her twisted feet.

It just broke my heart to see her all twisted up.

No idea how on earth she is still going on and has plans.

If she should pop off, I know my soul will be screaming.

I think she may out life everyone, F Keith Richards, he has nada on my friend!

The Joys of old age!!I do seriously hope your friend is OK; just busy with silly details etc;You will hear from him soon enough. It could be he is busy . I am fine and dandy if I pop off but worry about those I have tired to uplift.Not like I did anything to give them a leg up but my semi - rational nature and good vibes helped them. At least I hope so.Not bragging but if one is in my circle, not to be in the occult, I have your back. The occult is into circles.Weird how some churches like people to gather in a circle...Whatever that is worth.Cheers to your boy! he is just doing what any young man needs to experience;Very nice he can do this is the safety of a loving home.In my day it was, Boones Farm Strawberry Hill wine!My bro Lon was in charge of mowing our lawn picking up any trash around our home for 6 weeks while we visited HU.Neighbors later said they picked up beer cans etc from the pool partites he had while the cat was away.Good thing we did not leave the house keys to him or my cra-cra, fun sister.My Vegas friend is so strong,the things her body is doing would put a 6 foot 8 300 lbs. man to his knees.Last time I saw her, I am not an overly physical person, I crashed to the floor and rubbed her twisted feet.It just broke my heart to see her all twisted up.No idea how on earth she is still going on and has plans.If she should pop off, I know my soul will be screaming.I think she may out life everyone, F Keith Richards, he has nada on my friend! - @Marilyn Tassy

I cannot believe it.  Someone asked me to do some work this afternoon.  Bloody cheek.  I'm parked on the bench and it's World Cup day and we're preparing for holidays.  Some people have no sense whatsoever.   I told them, tomorrow is holiday time.  I suppose I will get asked questions while slumming it down at Balaton.  Come September, I'll be busy I expect.

I did hear from my friend.  He's probably busy with either stents, bypass operations or some other thing.  And as he's in the ICU, he's unlikely to be able to use his phone or might not want to as he's not well.  I was saying to Mrs F that when this kind of thing happens, everyone examines their position and health.  I also know his ex-GF and she's not in good condition either - she's using a scooter.  We used to work together. I seem to be the only one not truly messed up.  I am not going to tell the ex-GF what happened. It's down to him to do that.  I did SMS his brother on a work mobile to see if he'd heard news.  No reply.  Probably thought it was spam.

Keith Richard, now that's a grizzled guy.  I saw Mick Jagger on TV (he was at a World Cup match) and he looks like he should be a hermit living in a cave.   He's 82 and past it.  Absolutely grizzled.  Definitely one to retire into obscurity.  Personally I would have preferred  Jagger to Bowie on who gets a visit from the Grim Reaper.  Bowie was pretty much a genius in all realms of art and very missed.   They sold Bowie's art collection recently.  I think they should have kept it all together at an art museum.

Well, WC at 21h.  We shall see who wins.  We are all for Spain here.  Maybe the Latin dirty tricks brigade will meet its match in NYC.  Smoke permitting.

It is very weird to me that my sister, hubby and I are now the Elders.

I personally feel now that I seem to have gotten over that cancer scare that I have at least another decade or longer in me. Barring any freak accidents.

Once in awhile I am reminded that time is moving, wake up once in awhile with a leg cramp. Need more minerals is all or more water.

Mick Jagger, Sir Mick.

Saw a few promos he was doing for their new album.

He seems sharp mentally but yes, he needs filters these days.

His famous lips are thin now too.

Just like mine have gotten. Strange I was teased to no end as a girl for having full lips.

We all change , not always for the better.

Keith,he on the other hand seems to have his ears growing even larger.

Bet he was teased for his Dumbo ears as a boy!

So my son lives on Kyushu Island, he felt the earthquake the other day. He is about 114 km from ground zero. Felt like a 4 on the scale where he was.

They say another may happen within the next 28 hours.

The world is in protest!

Fires, earthquakes what is next?

On one post I noticed the comment on how S. Ca. seemed like everyday Baywatch.

Well it used to be that way, it really was like that.

In the 1960s when my parents took us to Malibu and other beaches there were always healthy looking tanned young people walking around, playing ball or running into the waves; Surfers out in the distance.

Used to run in the sand up in Santa Barbara, Hippies all over the place with colorful stands selling items.

Venice beach was a trip too, muscle beach with weight lifters and music in the air.

Cheap slices of pizza and cheap beers.

My eldest sister got her first car at 17, we would collect less then 50 cents for gas/petrol and drive all over for the day, stop off for a rootbeer float at A&W , a drive -in stand with car hops.

It was fun, all over S; Ca; the streets were lined with Palm trees and orange groves were everywhere.

Terrible now. Greed ruins everything.

So my son lives on Kyushu Island, he felt the earthquake the other day. He is about 114 km from ground zero. Felt like a 4 on the scale where he was.
They say another may happen within the next 28 hours.
The world is in protest!
Fires, earthquakes what is next? - @Marilyn Tassy

The earth moved for him then? 

I was watching the videos.  Things shook and wobbled.  Apart from the shopping mall, it looks like not much damage.

Fires, earthquakes etc.  We've also got drought.  And then next one is Pestilence.

There's an article on DW saying the Rhine is too low for shipping.  Now I wonder if the Duna is going to be too low to use as a water source.  Replenishment from mountains must be close to zero as the glaciers disappear. Be like Arizona or somewhere like that.  Not quite the Gobi desert.  I was planning 10,000 L of water storage but now I am thinking of 20,000 L.

On one post I noticed the comment on how S. Ca. seemed like everyday Baywatch.Well it used to be that way, it really was like that.In the 1960s when my parents took us to Malibu and other beaches there were always healthy looking tanned young people walking around, playing ball or running into the waves; Surfers out in the distance.Used to run in the sand up in Santa Barbara, Hippies all over the place with colorful stands selling items.Venice beach was a trip too, muscle beach with weight lifters and music in the air.Cheap slices of pizza and cheap beers.My eldest sister got her first car at 17, we would collect less then 50 cents for gas/petrol and drive all over for the day, stop off for a rootbeer float at A&W , a drive -in stand with car hops.It was fun, all over S; Ca; the streets were lined with Palm trees and orange groves were everywhere.Terrible now. Greed ruins everything. - @Marilyn Tassy

Yes, it's how I at least thought of Southern CA.  Definitely all Baywatch.  I have been there and it wasn't as I expected.  I found it quite chaotic and messy and surprisingly industrial. I guess we didn't know where to go.  Mrs F and I went to Santa Barbara, Monterrey, San Diego, Big Sur, San Francisco and LA along the coast and inland to the national parks.  Out of all of it, the national parks were the best.  I realised I didn't like the towns.  I guess if one lived there, it would be different.

So my son lives on Kyushu Island, he felt the earthquake the other day. He is about 114 km from ground zero. Felt like a 4 on the scale where he was.They say another may happen within the next 28 hours.The world is in protest!Fires, earthquakes what is next? - @Marilyn TassyThe earth moved for him then? I was watching the videos. Things shook and wobbled. Apart from the shopping mall, it looks like not much damage.Fires, earthquakes etc. We've also got drought. And then next one is Pestilence. There's an article on DW saying the Rhine is too low for shipping. Now I wonder if the Duna is going to be too low to use as a water source. Replenishment from mountains must be close to zero as the glaciers disappear. Be like Arizona or somewhere like that. Not quite the Gobi desert. I was planning 10,000 L of water storage but now I am thinking of 20,000 L. - @fluffy2560

Do you need to add anything to the stored water to keep it fresh?

Have to get back to the water this week one day;

Was so windy for the past bit that it seemed summer was over with.

I dislike getting wet and getting a chill from the wind.

Nothing worst then a summer head cold.

Still coming down from all the fun back at immigration on Monday.

Got a letter ,picked it up thinking all was good and my new card was inside.

No they wanted a copy of every single page of my passport.

Delivered on Monday but barely.

My number was a good 500 people ahead of me!

They were closing in a few hours and no way did we wish to wait it out only to be turned away;

I used half a brain cell for once and went back in line to give back my number and book an appointment.

I told her honestly, my visit should be easy, just a drop off plus my nearly 80 year old husband and I were not up to waiting.

She was sweet, asked if I needed a faster number, well yes madam, thank you.

The case worker went page by page to examine the passport?? OK, like what,s with that?

I guess having empty pages is a rare thing these days??

I think my case worker was suppose to have done this and forgot so they dumped it on me, like it was my mistake.

Whatever, just do it already.

I am not going though this again for sure in 10 years.

it seems they force you to hire a lawyer.

I admit I felt very disrespected as the wife of a citizen to be treated like a day worker looking for a low paying job and applying for a work permit or whatever most people seemed to be in there for.

Also they have no handicapped lines, no one cares if you drop or not.

In the US they have lines for the elderly and handicapped.

Not here, losers have to wait it out!

I am sort of upset, how can one invest here in a vacation home etc. if you feel unwanted?

I do feel unwanted.

Time will tell, perhaps my passport is about to be stamped after all, on my way out!?

Nothing seems simple in life.

Maybe it is all Trumps fault?

There was a man in line in front of us.

He was from the UK and his wife was HU.

He said he also had no appointment and had been in HU for over 20 years.

Seems the good times never end!

Not sure where he went after he got his number.

He was going on about his wife being in the press and them having lived in Libya under Kadafe. He liked him.

No time to chat but I am sure he had stories.

Went to Balaton yesterday.

What a long train ride!!

It was nice but the water seemed a bit more cloudy then we remembered it being.

Tried out a new for us beach, way too far off, not going that far next time.

Looks like summer is back.

My son is a real dreamer, sent me a list of rules to retire in Japan.

We each need at least $200,000 to invest there!

Let,s see if I can pull that out of a hat!!

Good grief, not sure what he is thinking!

Noticed the news reports on all those illegals going into Spain and France these past days.

First fires now this??

Wonder how many of them have an extra $200,000 sitting around to invest with?

The world is crazy!

Stay cool!

Went to Balaton yesterday.
What a long train ride!!
It was nice but the water seemed a bit more cloudy then we remembered it being.
Tried out a new for us beach, way too far off, not going that far next time.
Looks like summer is back.
My son is a real dreamer, sent me a list of rules to retire in Japan.
We each need at least $200,000 to invest there!
Let,s see if I can pull that out of a hat!!
Good grief, not sure what he is thinking!
Noticed the news reports on all those illegals going into Spain and France these past days.
First fires now this??
Wonder how many of them have an extra $200,000 sitting around to invest with?
The world is crazy!
Stay cool! - @Marilyn Tassy

At Balaton, one has to go out farther and farther to get to good water.   It's level is way down.  I reckon 300m from shore before it even reaches your chest.    Lack of water happened before as they diverted some of the streams filling it.  Demands on the water supply due to the OV building boom down there exceeded rainfall delivery.   Another OV muck up during amateur hour and massive over-development.

Japan has always had barriers to entry.  Many countries too.  Mostly xenophobia but also economics.  I, for example, am way too old to go to Australia or NZ unless I have large amounts of money.  Anyone with medical conditions is stuffed as they think anyone over about 45 will become a burden on their state budget.   If I was a high flyer, they'd probably say OK but I would need millions and that's just day dreaming.    I am not particularly enamoured of countries that don't just welcome me (specifically) in via a red carpet.  I've got a sense of entitlement and I loathe bureaucracy. 

Only hope seems to be a shortage of people for some reason. I guess the baby boomers post-war are all too old now so younger immigrants are needed.  I suppose older folks could get a chance again as they have to shift their policies in the competition for immigrants.

So my son lives on Kyushu Island, he felt the earthquake the other day. He is about 114 km from ground zero. Felt like a 4 on the scale where he was.They say another may happen within the next 28 hours.The world is in protest!Fires, earthquakes what is next? - @Marilyn TassyThe earth moved for him then? I was watching the videos. Things shook and wobbled. Apart from the shopping mall, it looks like not much damage.Fires, earthquakes etc. We've also got drought. And then next one is Pestilence. There's an article on DW saying the Rhine is too low for shipping. Now I wonder if the Duna is going to be too low to use as a water source. Replenishment from mountains must be close to zero as the glaciers disappear. Be like Arizona or somewhere like that. Not quite the Gobi desert. I was planning 10,000 L of water storage but now I am thinking of 20,000 L. - @fluffy2560Do you need to add anything to the stored water to keep it fresh?Have to get back to the water this week one day;Was so windy for the past bit that it seemed summer was over with.I dislike getting wet and getting a chill from the wind.Nothing worst then a summer head cold.Still coming down from all the fun back at immigration on Monday.Got a letter ,picked it up thinking all was good and my new card was inside.No they wanted a copy of every single page of my passport.Delivered on Monday but barely.My number was a good 500 people ahead of me!They were closing in a few hours and no way did we wish to wait it out only to be turned away;I used half a brain cell for once and went back in line to give back my number and book an appointment.I told her honestly, my visit should be easy, just a drop off plus my nearly 80 year old husband and I were not up to waiting.She was sweet, asked if I needed a faster number, well yes madam, thank you.The case worker went page by page to examine the passport?? OK, like what,s with that? I guess having empty pages is a rare thing these days??I think my case worker was suppose to have done this and forgot so they dumped it on me, like it was my mistake.Whatever, just do it already.I am not going though this again for sure in 10 years.it seems they force you to hire a lawyer.I admit I felt very disrespected as the wife of a citizen to be treated like a day worker looking for a low paying job and applying for a work permit or whatever most people seemed to be in there for.Also they have no handicapped lines, no one cares if you drop or not.In the US they have lines for the elderly and handicapped.Not here, losers have to wait it out!I am sort of upset, how can one invest here in a vacation home etc. if you feel unwanted?I do feel unwanted.Time will tell, perhaps my passport is about to be stamped after all, on my way out!?Nothing seems simple in life.Maybe it is all Trumps fault?There was a man in line in front of us.He was from the UK and his wife was HU.He said he also had no appointment and had been in HU for over 20 years.Seems the good times never end!Not sure where he went after he got his number.He was going on about his wife being in the press and them having lived in Libya under Kadafe. He liked him.No time to chat but I am sure he had stories. - @Marilyn Tassy

I don't think I need to add anything to the tank. There are  filters which gets bits out.  I'm not planning to drink the water but use it on the garden.  If I'd got my head straight, I'd have used the stored water to flush the toilets and feed the washing machine. I could install a UV light source which would sterilise the water for drinking. Maybe 20K litres is too much.  Now I am thinking 15K litres.   It needs quite a bit hole digging.  Machines will be required.

I've asked Mrs F to look into the residence permit renewal. I only need to start it in November.  As I'm on the Brexit version, I would think it's a straight renewal but it does mean going there.  Maybe new dabs (fingerprints) and a new photo.  The British guy you met in the queue probably has the same deal on Brexit.  We did not have to prove anything much - no contract of employment, no healthcare insurance, no cash reserves. Nothing except proof of address which is easy, we own our house and have the contract. As far as I know it's the same now for renewal as it was then.   Only my circumstances are that I will be at official retirement age pretty soon but not eligible for any pension until early 2027.  It's a shame I have to apply.  I thought previously they'd just send it to me.  I now tell people and filling in forms to say I am retired - partially because I cannot be bothered explaining what I'm doing.

Blank passports are normal - I've had to provide copies of a passport several times.   Everyone gets e-visas these days and may not need a visa at all.  In some countries, one has to actually request a stamp.  I'd quite like the UK to issue passport cards but that could easily turn into a proxy for ID cards which I have distaste for.   Last time I had to provide a copy of the passport was my son's renewal for the UK.   They wanted colour copies of his HU passport.  Waste of time in my mind.

As for feeling unwanted, usually yes, but it gets tiresome.  I felt much more at ease in the EU when the UK was a member.  It was just normal to be in an EU country as we all got the same rights.  Everyone was just milling around between countries.  Now I feel much more like a foreigner.   If it's not obvious, Brexit has really affected me. 

If I were much younger and cared, I could become a Polish citizen.

Before 1920 a Polish citizen was not able to hand down citizenship by birth but my father was born in Poland in 1921.

I know exactly his village and the church is so close by where I am 99 percent sure he was Baptized.

Very near Gorlice where records must be kept.

Just have to get copies of his birth and death certificates and my own birth certificate.

Just not speaking Polish, makes it harder since I would probably need a lawyer or someone to hassle with it for me who speaks Polish.

My 3rd cousin who I met in Poland lives in the US and used to do these sorts of errands for people for a price. He has had a stroke so that,s out now.

He did give me a list of names and birth dates of my relations going back to the late 1770,s, Hungarian and Polish/Rusyn surnames, some I can not even pronounce.

IDK,if Hungary does  not want me, perhaps I will raise sheep in the  Tatra mountains near lake Kilmokwa. Used to be just a river untill they damed it up into a lake. My father was 3 years old when his father threw him in the river and said, sink or swim! They just do not make dad,s like that anymore, probably a good thing too!

Good to know I am not the only one who needed to submit copies of their passport; I thought they were just digging deep to get me on something or other.

Paranoid, yes, can not take anything for granted these days.

So darn hot, we might need the water again soon. No more 6 hour rides for a day trip though!

Had my husband cut my hair today, came out rather good, had him watch some salon videos first, he is a natural;

Was thinking of going to a salon, a couple new ones opened up near us.

Yesteerday I walked past one and peeked in the large window;

A grumpy faced hairdresser looked back, no smile, no style with her hair and just gave me the creeps.

IDK, when I did hair we actually had to have our hair fixed nice and look dressed up or at least in fashion.

Who wants their hair done by someone who does not even care what they look like? Bad business.

If I were much younger and cared, I could become a Polish citizen.
Before 1920 a Polish citizen was not able to hand down citizenship by birth but my father was born in Poland in 1921.
I know exactly his village and the church is so close by where I am 99 percent sure he was Baptized.
Very near Gorlice where records must be kept.
Just have to get copies of his birth and death certificates and my own birth certificate.
Just not speaking Polish, makes it harder since I would probably need a lawyer or someone to hassle with it for me who speaks Polish.
My 3rd cousin who I met in Poland lives in the US and used to do these sorts of errands for people for a price. He has had a stroke so that,s out now.
He did give me a list of names and birth dates of my relations going back to the late 1770,s, Hungarian and Polish/Rusyn surnames, some I can not even pronounce.
IDK,if Hungary does not want me, perhaps I will raise sheep in the Tatra mountains near lake Kilmokwa. Used to be just a river untill they damed it up into a lake. My father was 3 years old when his father threw him in the river and said, sink or swim! They just do not make dad,s like that anymore, probably a good thing too!
Good to know I am not the only one who needed to submit copies of their passport; I thought they were just digging deep to get me on something or other.
Paranoid, yes, can not take anything for granted these days.
So darn hot, we might need the water again soon. No more 6 hour rides for a day trip though!
Had my husband cut my hair today, came out rather good, had him watch some salon videos first, he is a natural;
Was thinking of going to a salon, a couple new ones opened up near us.
Yesteerday I walked past one and peeked in the large window;
A grumpy faced hairdresser looked back, no smile, no style with her hair and just gave me the creeps.
IDK, when I did hair we actually had to have our hair fixed nice and look dressed up or at least in fashion.
Who wants their hair done by someone who does not even care what they look like? Bad business. - @Marilyn Tassy

Why don't you try to get a Polish passport?  Then there's no more messing around with immigration - you'd be on EU rules.  It's not like you'd have to pass a test in Polish etc in your circumstances.  A lot of Polish people can speak English nowadays. I think it could be quite easy to find someone to help in government.  And on the odd time you might need help, there's always Google Translate etc.

I need to visit a hairdresser. I look like I've been dragged through a hedge.  I'm not letting anyone other than a professional have a go at my curly locks.

I can recommend a good hairdresser who is good with curly hair.

He is listed as Luis Vargas Hair in Budapest.

I found this phne number online. 06-30-446-9952

Looks like he is now in the 13th district. Used to be in the 6th. Haierdressers are known to be like Gypsies, always moving around.

Speaks English, from Australia, funny nice guy.

Need an appointment since he is a busy beaver these days.

He speaks Spanish too. Most of his cliental are Spanish speakers.

Sorry, my husband does not take on new clients!!

I would have to become a Polish citizen before getting a Polish passport. Just  a hassle my husband is not behind.

119F in Vegas today, looks like we will be baking for awhile here as well.

Hot in Japan too.

My sons FIL bought them a portable A/C.

He said it works good.

His FIL sounds like a really nice guy.

He is always doing this or that for them or taking them out to eat.

Would be nice to meet them.

I think he is an electrician or something like that.

I can recommend a good hairdresser who is good with curly hair. He is listed as Luis Vargas Hair in Budapest.I found this phne number online. 06-30-446-9952Looks like he is now in the 13th district. Used to be in the 6th. Haierdressers are known to be like Gypsies, always moving around.Speaks English, from Australia, funny nice guy.Need an appointment since he is a busy beaver these days.He speaks Spanish too. Most of his cliental are Spanish speakers.Sorry, my husband does not take on new clients!!I would have to become a Polish citizen before getting a Polish passport. Just a hassle my husband is not behind.119F in Vegas today, looks like we will be baking for awhile here as well.Hot in Japan too.My sons FIL bought them a portable A/C.He said it works good.His FIL sounds like a really nice guy.He is always doing this or that for them or taking them out to eat.Would be nice to meet them.I think he is an electrician or something like that. - @Marilyn Tassy

No malarkey or less with an EU passport, so a Polish passport is as good as another one (from the EU).  You'd have rights to stay, not permission. An envious position.  Might not be as hard as one thinks.  Not like your hubby has to do anything about it. Could be a little project.

With a name like Vargas, I am not surprised the hairdresser can speak Spanish.  But then again, Varga seems to be a fairly common name in HU.   The HU Varga people cannot all be Spanish.  I've had a go at my Mrs's hair but just minor trimming.  I was very reluctant to get involved more than that.  But like my Dad (ex-Army, RIP) used to say, the difference between a good haircut and a bad haircut is 3 weeks.   My curly locks are just at the end of the hair.  As it gets longer, it gets curly.  If they cut it, no curls! And I'd lose my magic powers.

Airco works well if one has electricity.  If we get cut off because of Paks Nuclear closing down due to low Duna water, we've no way of cooling down.  It'd be back to basics.  I was in Dubai and they have some towers there which are like cooling towers.  We should be building those in HU.  No power required, just wind.

It is always an option to try to get Polish citizenship but everything takes time.

Time we may or may not have plus the BS that always comes with doing     anything official.

I do not even speak a word of any Slavic language either,not that it matters but still.

Luis is from S. America but grew up in Aussie land.

He has a way of making his clients feel at home and welcomed plus he is a good hairdresser.

I got used to having my husband do it for me,since I was ill and my hair got thin he had the chance to learn before it grew in too much to overwhelm him. I do stop him every other moment and see what he is doing.

There are tons of videos online on U tube about differnt haircuts.

I watched one last night, about a 45 walk through a basic cut we did everyday several times a day in the 70, 80,s. Read the comments, many people want that cut but no one knows how to do it correctly.

I can do that simple cut in my sleep, actually used to find it boring to cut.

A variation of the Fahrra cut, long or short. Layed cut.

How can anyone be a haircutter and not know that cut?

My husband said in one machine shop a machinist did not know how to cut screws! Suppose to be kinderkarten machining to know that.

Seems everyone wants to rush through working and just get paid.

I often think of my sisters insane hairdresser BF in the mid 70,s. Kevin, never will forget that dude.

He once quit a Beverly Hills salon job because some silly B would not sit still; He took his hairbrush and hit her on the head and walked off!

I have never done     anything like that to a client although it has crossed my mind!

It is always an option to try to get Polish citizenship but everything takes time.
Time we may or may not have plus the BS that always comes with doing  anything official.
I do not even speak a word of any Slavic language either,not that it matters but still.
Luis is from S. America but grew up in Aussie land.
He has a way of making his clients feel at home and welcomed plus he is a good hairdresser.
I got used to having my husband do it for me,since I was ill and my hair got thin he had the chance to learn before it grew in too much to overwhelm him. I do stop him every other moment and see what he is doing.
There are tons of videos online on U tube about differnt haircuts.
I watched one last night, about a 45 walk through a basic cut we did everyday several times a day in the 70, 80,s. Read the comments, many people want that cut but no one knows how to do it correctly.
I can do that simple cut in my sleep, actually used to find it boring to cut.
A variation of the Fahrra cut, long or short. Layed cut.
How can anyone be a haircutter and not know that cut?
My husband said in one machine shop a machinist did not know how to cut screws! Suppose to be kinderkarten machining to know that.
Seems everyone wants to rush through working and just get paid.
I often think of my sisters insane hairdresser BF in the mid 70,s. Kevin, never will forget that dude.
He once quit a Beverly Hills salon job because some silly B would not sit still; He took his hairbrush and hit her on the head and walked off!
I have never done  anything like that to a client although it has crossed my mind! - @Marilyn Tassy

If you could do the Polish thing part time and from home, it could be a slow burner.   Life would be different with no more visits and hassle at immigration.  Everything would be smoother and no need to have that throw of the dice with them deciding to give you another chance in HU.  It's like taking an exam, every time, not knowing the outcome each time.  So stressful.

I'm having to do the hard slog in learning Hungarian to up my language skills to a level eligible for citizenship.    This is the only way I can get an EU passport.   My Irish relative is too far back to be of use - only back to great-grandparents eligible and my German ancestor is way too far back also  great-great-grandparents. I wouldn't bother if the UK hadn't shot itself in the foot by leaving the EU.  Absolute nincompoops.

I do worry about our youngest reaching 18 (not that long) and then in theory, I'd have no dependents.  I suppose I could be Mrs F's dependent.  What a nuisance and waste of time as a bureaucracy. 

Anyway, I really don't know about hairdressers or engineers cutting screws. I probably understand the screws better than the hair.  But you need the right lathe for the screws.  I have manual screw cutting (taps and dies) and I have actually used them to make stuff or clean up threads.  I've got a metric set and a plumbing pipe cutting set (which even in Hungary, uses British Standard Plumbing sizes). 

I've also walked out of meetings. I just couldn't be bothered dealing with what was going on.  It takes a lot to rile me up but that day was an exception.  I did not lose my job.  I just said, "if you cannot be bothered being serious, then neither can I, we'll do this later" and I left for the coffee machine.  I did not hit anyone on the head but I can understand people losing it sometimes although violence is exceptional.   I notice people bad driving - there's a lot less politeness around these days and inter-personal skills seem appalling.

A few days ago my husband mentioned that last weekend in Hungary there were 7,000 reportedcar accidents!!

Yes, loads of idiots on the road with no business being there.Hubby said most of them were due to not giving the right of way to the right hand car.

I had not driven in 8 years, in Vegas it took me a good half hour of driving to get the feel of it again.

It was fun, I took a couple days before heading onto the freeway though,.

I am a decent driver although I like to drive a bit faster then the speed limit, not much faster though.

I know my limits, not used to driving on snow so do not even try that.

of course the odds of snow in the SW in Vegas is slim to none.

7,000! Insnae numbers.

I actually will never apply again for a resident card here , when I get my new one, thinking positive here, it will be my last. 10 years is a long time, I will be going on 82 by the time 10 years passes and can not see myself here alone, my husband probably will not want to be around 10 more years although it is mind over matter.

Yes, you might need to be Mrs. Fluffy,s dependant unless you are working here and have some sort of compnay? IDK,they like to swtich the rules up every so often .

I doubt the world will be even close to what it is now in 10 years time.

Most of us might be long gone by then.

I always got rehired at any job I wanted to return to.

One casino rehired me 3 times, another 3 times and my hair salon jobs always needed people so it was always a rehire.

The strangest rehire was as a car hop in Burbank at Bob,s Big Boy restaurant.

I had worked my way up to head hop and had been there over a year.

Never called in sick, always on time, always did my job without any issues.

The manager liked me as I never caused any troubles and made sure the hops under me follwed the rules and kept things clean and organized.

One summer night, some holiday evening, maybe it was July 4th? I reached my breaking point.

Of course I had my husband by then , a back up if I ever quit.

It was a swealtering hot day and a busy one. The managr out of the blue decided to keep the place open an hour later; No one was happy about that, they got greedy since it was packed all day long into the evening; I think we closed at 11Pm and no one wanted to stay past midnight.

Hussling, running working hard and some drunk in my station orered a tray of chilli with an inside tray; A tray that fit over the steering wheel, very hard to hook it on , heavy dish, super hot with a drink and his gut was in the way. He got flirty with me since it required you to reach inside the car to set up the tray with the food already on the tray.

I flipped out when he got all handsy; I spilled the chilli on him, on purpose, the fool.

I said sorry, got him a towel and said he could ask for free dry cleaning from the shop.

I do not remember if he asked for that or not because another order came up for me to take out.

We had twin spoiled 17 year old brothers working as the fry cooks at the drive through.

All day they were acting up, joking around,mixing up orders for fun, all the car hops had already told them off many times during the long hours.

The manager was aware of their goofing around but because they were so busy they let it slide.

They mixed up a large order of mine and I flipped out, cussed them both out, walked off the yard, went right into the main eating area with the sit down customers inside, got the eye of the assitant manager, screamled at him to control those idiots and screamed F Bob, as in Bob,s Big Boy, pulled my hairpiece off and threw it towards the assistant manager turned my back and got my things to leave. Wish I had a photo of the faces of the customers!

I had to sit with the assitant first though to give him all the money and reciets for the day and count it up.

He was asking me to not quit that I just needed to go home and relax.

I said no thanks and left.

About a year later when we moved back to Ca. I needed a job fast, since it had been a good paying job I went to get hired again; To my surprise they rehired me no questions asked.

Guess they knew I was basically a steady employee that got on with everyone, just do not cross me too far.

Worked there until I quit to move to Maui and have my baby.

Hard to believe summer or rather Aug.20th is just 2 weeks away.

Summer is passing so fast, time is passing fast.

Made it to the water the other day again, better put a move on before the season ends.

My Vegas friend informed me that the US gov. or rather Trump is ending free medical for the poor in Ca; and Minn. Medicade is the program,s name.

IDK, maybe those states have another program for the poor?

She also just informed me that our old friend, the one who passed from brain caner had a grandfather who was in the KKK.

Wow, sort of shocking to me.

Never met him but his wife was one of my clients in beauty school.

A lady from Poland.

My friend was also part native American, just seems so off to hear that.

Some things aere best kept hidden!

Hard to believe summer or rather Aug.20th is just 2 weeks away.Summer is passing so fast, time is passing fast.Made it to the water the other day again, better put a move on before the season ends.My Vegas friend informed me that the US gov. or rather Trump is ending free medical for the poor in Ca; and Minn. Medicade is the program,s name.IDK, maybe those states have another program for the poor?She also just informed me that our old friend, the one who passed from brain caner had a grandfather who was in the KKK.Wow, sort of shocking to me.Never met him but his wife was one of my clients in beauty school.A lady from Poland.My friend was also part native American, just seems so off to hear that.Some things aere best kept hidden! - @Marilyn Tassy

Ye gods, what's up with politicians in the USA withdrawing medical aid for poor people.   The only way forward is for the US to stop messing people up and adopt socialised medicine.   Ignorant people will think socialised means socialist.  Well, they can opt out and unhealthily die of simple diseases knowing they were not communists and the rest can soldier on in life, protected from disease by vaccinations and so on.   More Trumpist BS I suppose. I try not to look at him these days.   He's far too healthy for my liking.   

Just as an aside, Oman and Iran signed an agreement for the Straits of Hormuz.  Trump tried to sidle into that but the US was not even involved.  Unbelievable.

KKK eh?  Well, I suppose it's a hobby.  We have people dressing up as druids but it's all good fun and they are harmless.   I'd have thought people would celebrate their Native American past.  Just think how they could embrace it.  I've got no American bones in my body but I like the Native American mythology, customs, clothes and stuff like the connection with nature and the land.   Not quite the same, but for some years,  I've been harbouring a secret plan on making a totem pole for my garden.  I would make it in sections, with Hungarian themes per section. My daughter in Canada has been collecting pictures of totems for me to study.

Yes, time is flying along and in this heat, it's not hard to imagine vulnerable people are going to be dropping like flies.  The heatwave will kill thousands.  We are supposed to be down in Balaton next week. I am inclined to tell Mrs F to forget it.   We wouldn't be able to even go in the water until the evening each day.   We could push it back to the end of August.   I cannot even do stuff outside.  I have to look at the cars as one of them is showing signs of overheating.  But I'm not going out there until the sun has gone down.  Even with the sun going down, we're still a tad under 40C.  Even hotter than it was earlier on.   The dog is being kept inside.  No-one (ever) knows what the cat is doing.

Meanwhile, Mrs F has assembled various ingredients for me to make a fig, tomato, onion, apple and raisin chutney.  We'll be using 5% apple vinegar.  Fig chutney is a new idea for me.   

We have far too much fruit, it's such a shame to waste it.  Mrs F is bottling tomatoes while they are cheap (<400 HUF a kilo).  She's a legend in preserving stuff.  I think she did 70 jars of tomatoes last year.  Very useful.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible from Hungary on August 12, 2026, occurring in the early evening just before sunset. While regions in western Europe and Spain will experience a total eclipse, observers in Hungary will see the Moon obscure a significant portion of the setting Sun.

Event Timeline for Budapest

1. Eclipse Begins: 7:22 PM CEST
2. Maximum Eclipse: 7:56 PM CEST (approx. 64% magnitude)
3. Sunset / Event Ends: Around 8:01 PM to 8:03 PM CEST (the Sun sets before the end or peak depending on exact western/eastern positioning)

I need lessons on perserving foods.

Made jars of blueberrry jam a couple weeks ago. Sort of watery,my husband goes through jam in no time though.

His new kick is perserving watermelon rinds. Suppose to be full of something called, celine.

His new morning drink is beet root powder or fresh ground beets with lemon juice, pomegranate and a slice of watermelon rind.

So far he feels more energy. Again, mind over matter or does it really work?

Had planned on heading to the water today but noticed it was windy outside.

Another day then. A week at Balaton is nice, go for it!

My sister said Trump is forcing people under age 60 to work at least 18 or 20 hours per week to get gov.aid.

In my halfies case it is needed but good luck getting her off the couch!

I bet she is waiting till Dec. 31 to start any job. His new ruling starts Jan.1 from what I know.

Some people say he is picking on the states that voted against him.

IDK, Federal laws are for all states.

No, the KKK is a bit more serious then a side hobby. Very shocking really. Vegas buddy opened up and told me Teri,s entire family, bros etc; are huge racists.

I never would of thought.

Teri was the odd ball then because she was sweet and liberal with everyone.

Her granny was a jolly, chubby old Polish lady with a super heavy accent.

She came into my beauty school every Tuesday before her weekly date with her boyfriend.

She was a widow then, her husband was the KKK memeber.

I respected her granny as my friends family and as an elder but darn, she really upset me everytime she came in.

Easy to do her hair, no big demands but she was sneaky and sort of forced me into breaking the school rules.

I respect rules if they make sense, the school was for profit after all.

She used to wait till I brought her to the back of the school where the washing sinks were to start her treatment.

The school charged the public for hair serivces and charged for colors, perm solutions and extras. Prices were all listed up front.

She would bring a brown bag with her own hair rinse with a purple tint in it.

I told her I had to use the schools supplies and it was extra for her but she always insisted that she had her own color, it was cheaper and she could not afford to pay extra; She could afford it but that was not the point;

I went along with her out of friendship with her grand daughter but it bugged the heck outta me. If I was found out, I could of been expeled from the school.Now as an older person I would of told her no way. They may or may not of noticed but I never got in trouble but still. A few times I evern skipped Tuesays at the school to avoid her. The following week she would tell me she missed me and bring out her bottle again!

Guess she could not get away with it with any other student? Sucker me!

I need lessons on perserving foods.Made jars of blueberrry jam a couple weeks ago. Sort of watery,my husband goes through jam in no time though.His new kick is perserving watermelon rinds. Suppose to be full of something called, celine.His new morning drink is beet root powder or fresh ground beets with lemon juice, pomegranate and a slice of watermelon rind.So far he feels more energy. Again, mind over matter or does it really work?Had planned on heading to the water today but noticed it was windy outside.Another day then. A week at Balaton is nice, go for it!My sister said Trump is forcing people under age 60 to work at least 18 or 20 hours per week to get gov.aid.In my halfies case it is needed but good luck getting her off the couch!I bet she is waiting till Dec. 31 to start any job. His new ruling starts Jan.1 from what I know.Some people say he is picking on the states that voted against him.IDK, Federal laws are for all states.No, the KKK is a bit more serious then a side hobby. Very shocking really. Vegas buddy opened up and told me Teri,s entire family, bros etc; are huge racists.I never would of thought.Teri was the odd ball then because she was sweet and liberal with everyone.Her granny was a jolly, chubby old Polish lady with a super heavy accent.She came into my beauty school every Tuesday before her weekly date with her boyfriend.She was a widow then, her husband was the KKK member.I respected her granny as my friends family and as an elder but darn, she really upset me every time she came in.Easy to do her hair, no big demands but she was sneaky and sort of forced me into breaking the school rules.I respect rules if they make sense, the school was for profit after all.She used to wait till I brought her to the back of the school where the washing sinks were to start her treatment.The school charged the public for hair services and charged for colors, perm solutions and extras. Prices were all listed up front.She would bring a brown bag with her own hair rinse with a purple tint in it.I told her I had to use the schools supplies and it was extra for her but she always insisted that she had her own color, it was cheaper and she could not afford to pay extra; She could afford it but that was not the point;I went along with her out of friendship with her grand daughter but it bugged the heck outta me. If I was found out, I could of been expeled from the school.Now as an older person I would of told her no way. They may or may not of noticed but I never got in trouble but still. A few times I evern skipped Tuesays at the school to avoid her. The following week she would tell me she missed me and bring out her bottle again!Guess she could not get away with it with any other student? Sucker me! - @Marilyn Tassy

As far as I know, and Mrs F is my expert, one makes the stuff, whatever it is, put it in sealed sterlised jars, then put them in a large saucepan and cover with water, then heat it up and cook in the jars for 15m and then let it cool. I think this pushes out any air in the jars and creates a vacuum inside.   Then there's a hostile environment for bugs to grow.  It's pretty much guaranteed to be OK for 3 months.   The quality of the seals on the jars is quite good to allow multiple re-uses.

If I am honest, I really don't want to go to Balaton.  If it's too hot, it's a useless place apart from the lake. In past years, when I was working, a break down there was quite good but I'm just idling now and doing minimal work dabbling. One day is much the same as another except at Tuffy Flowers, we have all our stuff to use and enjoy.  I have a raft of jobs to do at home and taking a week out is a bit of a nuisance.  Mrs F - who is still working - wants the break so I'll go along with it.

KKK is not something one would want on one's resume/CV.   It'd be like like saying one is a former Nazi.  That's not going to go down well.

Donald Trump forcing people to work.  Honestly, who wants to live under his uncaring regime.  Totally corrupt and random.  And he's always screwing everyone over.  Sooner he's out the better.

I've been considering using dye on my hair as I feel like I need a bit of a glow up.  But my hairdressing consultants (Mrs F and No. 3 daughter) are not really helping. I have no idea.  No.1 daughter suggested a wash in dye as it would eventually fade I can see what it is like. I have a lot of grey.  I can see people looking at my CV/resume and saying, this guy is 66 but if I appear younger it might help get considered.  I have known others get jobs into their 70s but they were exceptions.

My old Vegas friend, Mona, one of the first female dealers in the 70,s used to get a , half face lift every few years. She did it she said to look younger for her job.

I had no idea she did anything because her face was a bit off anyways and I dislike asking such personal questions from anyone. She is the lady who was almost done in by her husband with a clawhammer on the head.

Hair does make a difference but men can get away with being grey easier then we ladies can.

A wash out temp color is good but it may not cover grey all the way;

It can be complicated to cover grey, depending on how thick or resistant every head of hair is.

Grey hair picks up dye differnt then younger hair does.

Usually I would go for a med to light golden brown, hard to say though as some people pick up allot of red from golden tones. Some hair needs to be pre softened with peroxide before color can be added.

I once brought my own supply of Matrix color to Hungary for a touch up .

I had extra left over and my SIl asked me to use it on her.

her hair is more grey and resistant then mine and thicker, it turned out not exactly like mine and did not cover all her grey.

I warned her but think she still was pissed at me. I only brought what I use on myself to Hungary.

Balaton is fun, yes just being the the water is sometimes the only way to force ones self to slow down.

I,d be out there every day if I was close by.

On Maui I swam daily and had a great tan.

Those were the days!

I see allot of stupid idiots do abuse the gov; aid in the US, pisses me off because those who really need it

short term are often turned away while others stay on for generatrions by having baby after baby. disgusting really.

On second thought, behaps an ash shade of med brown would work, it should not pull any red or golden tones, drab is better, nuteral.

My old Vegas friend, Mona, one of the first female dealers in the 70,s used to get a , half face lift every few years. She did it she said to look younger for her job.
I had no idea she did anything because her face was a bit off anyways and I dislike asking such personal questions from anyone. She is the lady who was almost done in by her husband with a clawhammer on the head.
Hair does make a difference but men can get away with being grey easier then we ladies can.
A wash out temp color is good but it may not cover grey all the way;
It can be complicated to cover grey, depending on how thick or resistant every head of hair is.
Grey hair picks up dye differnt then younger hair does.
Usually I would go for a med to light golden brown, hard to say though as some people pick up allot of red from golden tones. Some hair needs to be pre softened with peroxide before color can be added.
I once brought my own supply of Matrix color to Hungary for a touch up .
I had extra left over and my SIl asked me to use it on her.
her hair is more grey and resistant then mine and thicker, it turned out not exactly like mine and did not cover all her grey.
I warned her but think she still was pissed at me. I only brought what I use on myself to Hungary.
Balaton is fun, yes just being the the water is sometimes the only way to force ones self to slow down.
I,d be out there every day if I was close by.
On Maui I swam daily and had a great tan.
Those were the days!
I see allot of stupid idiots do abuse the gov; aid in the US, pisses me off because those who really need it
short term are often turned away while others stay on for generatrions by having baby after baby. disgusting really.

On second thought, behaps an ash shade of med brown would work, it should not pull any red or golden tones, drab is better, nuteral. - @Marilyn Tassy

I'm not going for any surgery to make me look weirder than I already do😀 

There is some quality to growing older gracefully.  But a touch up here and there with what's available would be OK. I have a relative who had a face lift and she looked like she'd been surprised by something for like 2 years. I almost said to her, what have you done with the original you, where is she?

I did ask a hairdresser about it and she said almost the same as you. Grey is really difficult.  She actually suggested Platinum which maybe the same as ash. It would be a major shock waking up in the morning.  However, I'm deluding myself as it looks like I've got grey highlights already.   If I went all platinum or grey, I could audition for Game of Thrones and House Targaryen (they all have blonde hair to show which clan they belong to).

(p.s. He's about 30 years younger than me and better looking)

Personally I never liked blonde hair that much. Natural blode is pretty but rare around these parts.

Had a friend with natural blonde hair in HS, think and honey colored, her best feature was her hair.

Balck hair and blue eyes is striking to me.

Rare sort of too.

Rusyn people often have black hair and blue eyes but not in my family.

My father did have jet black hair but brown eyes.

My mom had black hair too.

Most people aere your everyday brown hair brown eyes.

Went to the Danube yesterday, for once it was clear blue.

Personally I never liked blonde hair that much. Natural blode is pretty but rare around these parts.
Had a friend with natural blonde hair in HS, think and honey colored, her best feature was her hair.
Balck hair and blue eyes is striking to me.
Rare sort of too.
Rusyn people often have black hair and blue eyes but not in my family.
My father did have jet black hair but brown eyes.
My mom had black hair too.
Most people aere your everyday brown hair brown eyes.
Went to the Danube yesterday, for once it was clear blue. - @Marilyn Tassy

My Dad was blonde when he was younger but he'd been a bit red before that.  I also had the odd fleck of red hair which are now grey but everything was brown mainly  I also have greeny brown eyes which I rather like as not many people seem have green eyes. My Dad had blue eyes. My Mum had brown hair and brown eyes.   

A lot of people complain about red hair for some nonsensical reason but I quite like it.  It's a common feature of some peoples - Scots and Irish I suppose.  My Dad had to avoid the sun which was problematic out in Australia and the Pacific.

Hairdresser told me blonde wouldn't work as it would just add too much contrast.  He suggested the grey or steel cum platinum as it would mean less maintenance as it grew out as I am naturally pretty grey anyway.

If you were down at the Duna, maybe you could see all sorts of uncovered things .  I read the other day, they found a well preserved WW2 German motorbike embedded in the mud.  Now that's a project for restoration.  There was other stuff like WW2 jerry cans and even ships.

Mrs F is asking me to do my fig chutney.  I am so slow today.  My back was hurting and the painkillers put me in a coma. I feel like it's taken me 4h to just wake up.

Update:

I made the "fig and fruity all-star" chutney.  This time I doubled up the spices, added more sweetener, soaked the raisins in red wine (adds colour) and added two chicken flavoured stock cubes as it was tasting a bit bland.   The stock cubes made it taste so much better.  Remarkable but it could be the salt in them. I also put a dash of black pepper in on Mrs F's recommendation.  I did not add more water or liquids to it otherwise it'll be like a weird soup that needs thickening up.  The figs don't seem to have added anything at all other than bulk.  I am surprised. I thought figs actually tasted of something.  Figs are not fruits that are commonly grown in the UK so I am unfamiliar with them.

Now I have to let it cool down a bit before putting in jars and sterilising them. I hope the spices and ingredients mingle in the jar to produce a rich, thick result.

Sounds very tasty. I love figs.

Do not buy them often enough, the fresh ones are seasonal here and rather pricey.

We had a fig tree at one of my mom,s homes years ago, grew nicely in Ca.

Have a few tomato plants in a window sill, so far nada, I give up, they are cheap enough in the store but it is always fun to see your own growing.

My son, MIL, BIL, several cousins, and grandmother were all natural red heads.

My son grew his hair very long it was beautiful, straight and golden red with a slight wave as it grew past his shoulders. Green eyes too.

He would of made a pretty women, I know mom,s always say things like that but he would have tall and slim too with pale skin, the sun is his enemy.

He has a red beard too, he once told me the carpet matches the drapes,  to much info!!

He makes me laugh.

We went swimming in the Danube, hey have a spot with lifeguards and lounge chairs for free, about an hours ride away but it is peaceful there;We can watch people kayaking and boating, jet skies too.

It was funny last visit, a power boat was dragging a couple of children off the back on some sort of device with handles they held onto. Like water skiing on your stomach; Hard to see that far away, we fogot to being our binoculars that day.

Round and round at high sppeds, a girl, sounded young kept being pulled off and was just out there floating in her life vest in the Danube until they were able to turn the boat around and collect her. She kept getting on the board, I would of thought she would of given up the 3 rd or 4th time she was pulled off.

WW2 motorbikes, hmm, hope they do not find bones in there, it would defo keep me out of the water if they did.

Sounds very tasty. I love figs.
Do not buy them often enough, the fresh ones are seasonal here and rather pricey.
We had a fig tree at one of my mom,s homes years ago, grew nicely in Ca.
Have a few tomato plants in a window sill, so far nada, I give up, they are cheap enough in the store but it is always fun to see your own growing.
My son, MIL, BIL, several cousins, and grandmother were all natural red heads.
My son grew his hair very long it was beautiful, straight and golden red with a slight wave as it grew past his shoulders. Green eyes too.
He would of made a pretty women, I know mom,s always say things like that but he would have tall and slim too with pale skin, the sun is his enemy.
He has a red beard too, he once told me the carpet matches the drapes, to much info!!
He makes me laugh.

We went swimming in the Danube, hey have a spot with lifeguards and lounge chairs for free, about an hours ride away but it is peaceful there. We can watch people kayaking and boating, jet skies too.
It was funny last visit, a power boat was dragging a couple of children off the back on some sort of device with handles they held onto. Like water skiing on your stomach; Hard to see that far away, we fogot to being our binoculars that day.
Round and round at high speeds, a girl, sounded young kept being pulled off and was just out there floating in her life vest in the Danube until they were able to turn the boat around and collect her. She kept getting on the board, I would of thought she would of given up the 3 rd or 4th time she was pulled off.
WW2 motorbikes, hmm, hope they do not find bones in there, it would defo keep me out of the water if they did. - @Marilyn Tassy

Figs have been cultivated for centuries. I think there's some stuff about figs in the Bible.  Apparently Jesus was cursing the fig tree but why, no idea. 

BTW, we are informed 400 HUF/kg for tomatoes is too high.  Latest from down by the Romanian border, they are 200 HUF/kg.   We have some mini tomatoes growing.  The big ones always get diseases here at Tuffy Flowers.  We were given some small mini tomato plants and they are good and very prolific in pots.  So now we're keeping some seeds for next year.

It's too hot again. I am beginning to want cooler weather.  We had a jumper go out on our electricity supply as we had the airco on.  Luckily it didn't affect anything anything annoying and Mrs F put it back.  I was asleep when this was going on.  It's becoming so warm, we have to put the airco on nearly every day.

I expect my red and blondy haired relatives are all covering up.  Maybe your son could have been on Ru Paul's Drag Race if he's started a career in show biz earlier.  Apparently it's a popular genre.  I've never actually seen a drag show in real life.     But I suppose anyone can get drapes and carpet dyed appropriately.  I cannot say that's ever been something I've thought about.   I always thought a Brazilian was a kind of coffee or a type of nut.

There's a article on one of the news wires saying that it is possible to walk to the piers of various Duna bridges now the water level is low.   Margit Hid piers can be reached from Margit Island. Apparently this used to be very unusual but is now reasonably common.

I've received messages in my e-mail about work.  Really?  Could have waited until September.  Holidays etc are what we need.  I do not even want to read these e-mails.  They will be asking me to do something or comment on something.  Don't they know I'm busy and I'm 65!

I've got some holes to fill in on a wall, put my repaired axe away, finish up repairing a wooden hippo (yes, really, ear broke off),  consider doing some re-wiring in my shed and upstairs (I've had the parts for months, just not done anything about it), need to fiddle with my security cameras.   I feel like I'm almost retired. I only have about 5 months left to wait before I can claim my pension.  Then I can cruise for a bit.