Aussie Queen

Sampling Catherine Tate's latest comedy, Queen of Oz. 

Broadcast on BBC in the UK and ABC in Australia, it tells the (fictional) story of a wayward, unruly, self-obsessed and embarrassing younger member of the British Royal Family, who knows few boundaries. Princess Georgiana is shipped off DownUnder by the Queen to be their new monarch. In real life, some might argue Australia has been fortunate not to have such a Royal forced upon them LOL.

Mildly amusing, more light drama with humorous bits than all-out comedy but possibly still worth a watch. 

Theatre/Theater

Fun fact: the New Theatre in Oxford is 89 years old. Hardly new, is it? It was in fact given this name because it was the third theatre build on the same site since 1836.

Rule Britannia

It's more than a little worrying when you receive notification the coin you ordered is on its way, and you really have no recollection what it might be. Equally, when it does arrive and on opening it turns out to be this beauty, I would call that a win.

One of a maximum of 5210, this 2023 silver proof Britannia coin is the first of its type to carry the new depiction of Britannia, and of course King Charles III. The demonisation value is £2 but obviously it is worth far more in its weight in... well silver.

Longest

In the northern hemisphere it's the longest day, which means sadly we'll be heading back towards winter when summer has barely started. Up in Shetland, the most northern region of the British Isles, they will be expecting nearly 19 hours of daylight today. Sunset is expected just after 10.30 this evening. Wow! Good luck sleeping tonight.

Also today is the birthday of William, HRH the Prince of Wales. I did not know that. BBC radio 4 played the National Anthem just before the 7 AM news, something reserved for the monarch and direct heir. It's an old fashioned tradition but it does make me proud to be British.

Gaia

Took a trip today with ym, into Reading, to the town council concert hall. For the past few days Reading has been host to the touring installation Luke Gerram's Gaia. This huge suspended globe uses NASA images to depict the beauty of our planet. A trully stunning sight and is highly recommended. We followed this with a trip to Las Iguanas Mexican themed restaurant. Just as good as previous visits.

Poppies

My poppies doing what they do best. Enjoy.

Warm

Many would agree the UK seems to receive more than its fair share of miserable weather. So when the sun does shine, it should be wholeheartedly welcomed. Roll on the rest of summer!

Oh So Good

You really can't beat freshly made Lardy Cake. 

This is a traditional item from Berkshire and Wiltshire, which (perhaps) due to the perception of it not being particularly healthy food, has somewhat fallen from favour. As a result few places produce them, let alone a good version. Thank goodness for a family owned bakery, that has been operating since 1932, in the area! Thank you Warings, much appreciated LOL.

Ouch!

My GP has issued today a prescription with some lovely new meds LOL.

Oh, and I've been referred for Physio!