By Jane

One cannot be afflicted with seasonal allergies, as am I, and fail to perceive the inherent balance of Nature. Reward and suffering are inextricably bound together in the seasons. The mild weather of both spring and fall, with their many delights to the senses, is marred by either pollen or mold spores. Summer and winter are free from these irritants, but are less comfortable to the skin.  During the temperate seasons, the butterflies and brilliant blooms or marvellous autumn leaves must be viewed through itchy, watery eyes; the sweet birdsong is punctuated by sneezing. Yet, while shivering in winter or sweltering , mosquito-bitten, in summer, the thought often occurs: "At least I can breathe freely."

An optimist would conclude that there's always something to be thankful for; I find this philosophy admirable, but I do sometimes wish for one season of sheer, unadulterated pleasure. But then, I suppose this could only lead to my being discontented three-quarters of the year, so perhaps things are best as they are.

In any case, Happy Spring, everyone.

By Wobbly

Of all the utter balderdash
That ever has been spoken
Is that advice to close one's heart
So it will not be broken.

For not to love is not to live
(in my humble opinion)
Per'aps you might get hurt a bit
But you won't be Fear's minion

There. I've said it, and I meant it.

I highly recommend visiting the Charles Dickens Museum at 48 Doughty Street, should you find yourself in London with any spare time at all.  It is such a lovely and relaxed atmosphere for contemplating Dickens and his works in a house where he and his family lived from 1837 to 1839.  When I visited Dickens House with my family while on a trip to London ( we made it a priority!) it was a welcome change from the crowded tourist spots and we felt that we could take our time to explore the house and really experience all the many and various artifacts on display. Of special interest to me was a humorous letter from Dickens to a clock repairman; it is framed and hanging near the clock in question.

The Museum has recently been renovated, and I would love to return to it some day if I can. If you are a Dickens fan, you would not regret a moment you spent there.

The Charles Dickens Museum
48 Doughty Street, London WC1N 2LX
T: +44(0)20 7405 2127
E: info@dickensmuseum.com

 

I want to wish everyone a very happy and healthy 2013.

Winky Wottle wagged his bottle
Belched and swore and tried to toddle
Back to where he left his dreams
He's misplaced them, so it seems.

Wobbly says:
It's not easy bein' a vegetarian teetotaler pursuin' true love across class barriers in  19th century England.

By Wobbly:

I winked at a star that lit my way
And it winked back at me
An innocent flirtation
As far as I could see

Written by Wobbly in memory of a beloved Barstool family pet:

There was a dog whose name was Alice
Who held no grudge and bore no malice
Her tail was frequently a blur
Would that we all could be like her

Thanks to all who entered the Wobbly Barstool giveaway on Goodreads.com!
I really appreaciate your interest. The ten lucky winners should be receiving their copies of the book in the near future.  

I am delighted to announce that Wobbly Barstool is now available as an e-book!
Click for:
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Other sites to follow!