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Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
http://www.the-cbb.co.uk/viewtopic.php?f=14&t=2172
Author:  francesn [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 9:27 pm ]
Post subject:  Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
“Joey! Jo! Jo! Can you hear me?”

“Rgh….nnnn….”

Joey tried to open her mouth but the right side of her face wouldn’t obey her. Her vision seemed blurry and she couldn’t seem to find the words she needed. She couldn’t hold her head up straight and all of a sudden she couldn’t place the concerned face, no, faces, looking into her eyes.

Shamefully she felt herself dribbling like the children had when they were teething so many years ago now. She tried to focus on them but her brain wouldn’t let her. Her head hurt…..

The voices were sounding further away now. She tried to lift her right hand which still clutched her handkerchief to wipe her mouth but she couldn’t, no matter how hard she tried her body wouldn’t do what it was told.

.......................................................................................................

“Joey……”

Her eyelids fluttered open and shut immediately against the brightness of the room. She recognised that voice, it belonged to someone she knew well.

“Jack,” she tried to say, only it sounded more like ‘Jyarg’. He squeezed her right hand and she tried to squeeze his back, but could only manage the faintest pressure.

“Yes, Joey. I’m here. It’s all going to be alright. I’m here.”

“What happened?”

Even to her own ears her speech sounded slow and slurred. Almost as if someone had recorded it and played the recording back at half the speed. Her face didn’t feel right and she was having trouble finding the words to expressive what she was feeling. She was scared, incapable for doing even simple things. She tried to wiggle the fingers on her left hand and to her joy they obeyed. She tried the same with her right but they wouldn’t do anything. She tried again and again, and failed each time, tears of frustration welled up in her eyes.

“Joey, can you hear me? Move your hand if you can hear me.”

She moved her left hand.

“Joey can you nod your head?”

She moved her head forward only to feel it fall to one side. It was an effort to move it back to where it had been but she did it, slowly and with great difficulty but she did it.

“Joey, you had a stroke. Can you tell me the last thing you remember?”

“I….we…Len wants to get married. She…she will get her degree and then...Reg…”

“And you can’t remember anything since?”

“No…..”

“Jo, that was nearly twenty years ago now….”

Joey opened her eyes, squinting against the light, and stared at her husband. His hair, no longer fair, was completely grey and his face was lined with wrinkles. He looked…..old.


*edited for formatting
Author:  Chair [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 9:58 pm ]
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Thanks, Fran. This is really moving.
Author:  Ruth B [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 10:17 pm ]
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Thank you Fran. Poor Joey. :-((
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 10:18 pm ]
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Poor Joey - hope she regains her memory - twenty years!


Thanks Fran
Author:  Carolyn P [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 10:27 pm ]
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:cry: :cry:

Thanks Fran
Author:  Alison H [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 11:03 pm ]
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Poor Joey :cry: .
Author:  francesn [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 11:23 pm ]
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“Con – listen, Mamma’s had a stroke.”

It was a mark of Helena’s distress that she reverted to the baby name for their mother. And that she didn’t upbraid her sister for her reply.

“But, Helena my dear, you can’t be serious. She’s as fit as an Irishman’s flea.”

Despite her casual words Connie sat bolt upright nearly knocked a mug of coffee over the proofs she had been looking over. She mentally cursed herself for having such an untidy desk and half-wondered whether she should clean it.

“Do you think I would joke about something like this, Con?” Helena replied, sounding tired. “She’s had a stroke, she’s in the San. Dad’s with her. And we need you to come here, please. She can’t remember us. Not at all. She doesn’t remember that I’m married, she doesn’t remember I have children – I don’t know how to explain to them that their Granny doesn’t remember. Jenny knows – she’s been such a help with the younger three, but all the others know is Granny’s very ill in hospital and we have to pray for her. The last thing she remembers is talking to me, while we were still at school, twenty years ago, about getting married. And how I should still get my degree….Con, I need you.”

Connie stopped trying to shuffle bits of paper round her desk and gave her sister her full attention. Grabbing a journalists pad, an old habit of hers, she started making notes of what she needed to do before she left. She talked as she wrote.

“Oh God. I’ll be there as soon as I can. Mrs H from downstairs can watch the flat – she often does. And I’ll call into work, tell them. They’ll cope. They have too. Annie’s a sweetie, I was going to recommend she moved on to an editorial position one day soon, this will be good experience. If I fly can someone meet me? I don’t know where, I’ll just the soonest flight and the train if I land up too far away.”

“Just call me from the airport. And, Con…” Helena paused.

“Yes, Helena?” Connie said, waiting.

“Thank you.”

Connie put the phone down and started looking for everything she needed. Her keys, where were her bloody keys when she needed them? A list of things that needed doing – her secretary and her deputy knew most of them but…a phone number so they could call her if they needed anything while she was away. This magazine was her baby, she wasn’t going to neglect it but her mother…oh God her mother had had a stroke….
Author:  Chair [ Sun Mar 11, 2007 11:32 pm ]
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Thanks, Fran. I am feeling sorry for everyone concerned.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 6:48 am ]
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:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:


Poor Grandchildren, unable to understand why Granny has changed.


Thanks Fran
Author:  Squirrel [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 7:51 am ]
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What a shock for everyone - and something that takes time to change. I hope htey get through alright, and that Jo starts to recognise people soon.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Elbee [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:43 am ]
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This is very sad :(

It will be interesting to find out what really has happened to them all in the last twenty years. Thank you.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 9:20 am ]
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Am extrememly curious
Author:  Miranda [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 9:54 am ]
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What a shock for Joey and her poor family :( I'm glad Con's flying over - I think her reaction to Len's (Helena's) phone call was written really well :) It will be interesting to see how the rest of the family (especially Jack) copes...
Author:  Fatima [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 2:34 pm ]
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Oh poor Jo; being unable to express herself will be dreadful for her. I'm so glad Con's coming home to support the others.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  francesn [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:37 pm ]
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Helena waited by the phone. She had called all the Maynard clan she could – Steve in Brussels, Felix in Cambridge, Charles in Buckinghamshire and Geoff in London. Geoff had told Phil, and promised to call Cecy whenever she was finished. She couldn’t get hold of Felicity – she was somewhere in Italy, but the receptionist at the hotel had promised to pass on the message – and she’d tried to get in touch with Mike but he was on some training exercise, again they’d promised to pass on the message. She called the head of Margot’s Order, based in London, and tried to explain the situation but was firmly told Sister Mary Damian was unavailable.

The phone rang and she grabbed it eagerly.

“Hello, Helena Entwhistle....”

“It’s me,” Felicity interrupted. “What’s happened? Are the children okay? The receptionist gave me this terribly garbled message…her English isn’t up to much and my Italian’s virtually non-existent, just what I need to read music and the odd phrase…but I’m going on and something’s happened. What is it?”

“Fliss, I don’t want you to worry…” Helena began.

“Too late,” Felicity said. “What’s happened?”

“It’s Mother…she’s had a stroke, a pretty major one really. She’s in the San and Dad’s with her all the time but, Fliss, it’s quite bad.”

“I’ll cancel all my concerts – I only have three left and then I’ve got a break anyway. Look I can be with you in a few hours…”

“No,” Helena interrupted forcefully. “You know how proud Mamma is…was…of you. You were the only one of us who was any good at the piano! And it won’t do any good, you being here I mean. She doesn’t remember us. Fliss – she still thinks you’re about 9 years old.”

“But that’s ridiculous! I mean Felix and I were 30….” Felicity trailed off. “You mean she’s just lost her memory? Of everything we’ve done? Oh Len!”

“I know, Fliss, I know…” Helena said helplessly. “I don’t know what to say, or what to do. She just doesn’t remember anything. She still thinks I’m Head Girl - she can’t accept Auntie Nell died last year because she thinks she was talking to her just the other day! There’s nothing you can do here. Do your concerts. Do them well, for Mamma. It’s important to you, to all of us. And then come here if you want to.”

“Of course I want to,” Felicity sniffed. “It’s Mamma. How could I not want to? I don’t know how you expect me to do those concerts and sparkle and…I can’t. I just can’t.”

“Yes you can, Fliss, you must,” Helena soothed. “Do them, and act your heart out, and then come.”

“’Kay,” came the subdued response. “And…tell Mamma I love her.”

“I will,” Helena said. “I promise I will.”

She heard the click as Felicity hung up the phone at the other end before hanging up her own end and burying her head on the table in tears, crying her heart out until Reg found her at 1am coming home at the end of his shift.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:48 pm ]
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This is very good! Thank you - I think I'm going to enjoy this.
Author:  Alison H [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:48 pm ]
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This is very sad :cry: .
Author:  Ruth B [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 8:57 pm ]
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This is really good Fran.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 9:07 pm ]
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So sad. :cry:


Nell dead? Can't be! :shock:


Thanks Fran
Author:  francesn [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 9:14 pm ]
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Sorry, Lesley! Hilda's still around though...
Author:  Carolyn P [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 9:18 pm ]
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This is immensly sad and moving.
Author:  Chair [ Mon Mar 12, 2007 10:04 pm ]
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Thanks, Fran. My sympathy is with all of the family.
Author:  MaryR [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 12:39 pm ]
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Thank you, Frances
Author:  leahbelle [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 4:15 pm ]
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This is so moving, Frances :cry: . Thank you.
Author:  Jennie [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 4:51 pm ]
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I foresee many difficulties ahead.
Author:  francesn [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 6:59 pm ]
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“Helena, darling!”

“Oh Reg…” she sobbed. “It’s just so awful. I’ve had to tell everyone and I still haven’t managed to get in touch with Margot, or with Mike. And the people said they’d ring but they haven’t and I don’t know what to do. Connie’s flying out – she said she’d call from the airport but she hasn’t….but I’ve been on the phone and what if I’ve missed her call…it’s just too much.”

“Calm down, darling,” Reg soothed, stroking her hair. “It’s going to be fine. Connie arrived a couple of hours ago, she’s with your mother now. She went straight to the hospital and she’s been there since. She gave your father his marching orders.” Reg grinned wryly at the memory. “I think I always underestimated her.”

Len smiled through her tears. “She gets her own way when she wants.”

“I’ll say! Are the kids in bed?”

“Yes – Jen’s been wonderful. I’ll have to think up a treat for her…Oh she’s been so brave. She’s only thirteen but she’s let me make all the phone calls and looked after Alexander and Tommy. Oh and Phoebe’s been making me cups of team. Remember that she did her hostess badge at Brownies? Well she’s been putting it to good use.”

“Helena…”

“I managed to talk to Geoff and he’ll tell Phil when he sees her tonight. I don’t want Phil flying out, she needs to rest, and Cecy might not manage to get the time off school but he had the loveliest idea – they’re going to write letters to Mamma. And Charles will too – you know he can’t leave the boys until the school find someone else to be housemaster for a while. And Ellie won’t want to bring their two….Steve will come though, as soon as he can get time of work….”

“Helena, listen…”

But Helena just talked on and on letting it all flood out of her. “Felix – I don’t know about Felix, I don’t think he lives in this world half the time. He was on about some particle or other he’s just about to discover for his PhD. Very delicate experiments. I can’t even pretend to understand it but I know it’s important to him. He’s just a little tied up at the moment. But he’ll come, I know he will. I just can’t get hold of Margot – she’s my triplet, I have to tell her. And Mike, oh Mike, twenty years ago he was so naughty, so mischievous, he’s made good but Mamma doesn’t know…”

Helena broke down sobbing again at this point and Reg’s face hardened.

“Look we’ll get you off to bed, and then I’ll make some phone calls. You need to sleep, darling, you can’t keep going like this.”

Helena scrubbed her eyes with a handkerchief that had seen distinctly better, and cleaner, days.

“No dose,” she sniffed.

“No dose,” Reg agreed. “I promised, on our wedding day that I wouldn’t dose you without you knowing. And I’ve kept that promise.”

“No hot milk either,” Helena stipulated.

“No hot milk,” he agreed, manoeuvring her up the stairs.

“I always hated hot milk at school,” she whispered. “But it was such a favourite of Matron’s. Once I got to Oxford I vowed never to drink the stuff again, not even as hot chocolate. Or cocoa.”

By the time Reg left his wife curled up under the duvet she was sound asleep, dark lashes covering the dark circles under her eyes. He turned off the alarm in the morning and scribbled a note to be left which he left on Jen’s door warning her not to make too much noise in the morning and not to disturb her mother. Then he started making telephone calls.
Author:  Lesley [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 7:12 pm ]
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Good to see Reg being such a SLOC - and loved the bit about him promising never to 'dose' Len without permission!

But poor Len - having to carry all this - hope Con can help.


Thanks Fran
Author:  Chair [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 7:12 pm ]
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Thanks, Fran. I'm glad that Reg has promised to not give any hot milk or doses to Len. Who is Ellie, please?
Author:  francesn [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 7:18 pm ]
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Sorry, Chair - Ellie's is Charles's wife, and they have two children.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Tue Mar 13, 2007 10:23 pm ]
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It's hard having to be the one who tells people and attempt to cope in the first instance. Reg was very comforting and supportive.
Author:  Miranda [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 12:04 am ]
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Quote:
“No dose,” Reg agreed. “I promised, on our wedding day that I wouldn’t dose you without you knowing. And I’ve kept that promise.”


Does that mean they put it in their vows?? :shock: :lol: :lol:
Author:  Fatima [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 2:07 pm ]
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Reg was lovely there. I'm glad, for it's so easy to dislike him!

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Ruth B [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 4:25 pm ]
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Miranda wrote:
Quote:
“No dose,” Reg agreed. “I promised, on our wedding day that I wouldn’t dose you without you knowing. And I’ve kept that promise.”


Does that mean they put it in their vows?? :shock: :lol: :lol:


*Chokes* What a thought!

Good for Reg being a proper SLOC.
Author:  brie [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 4:38 pm ]
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thanks frances, i've just found this... and its great
Author:  Liane [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 7:05 pm ]
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Thanks Fran, This is great.
Author:  Lizzie [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 7:33 pm ]
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This is so sad!
Author:  francesn [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 9:20 pm ]
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“This is Doctor Entwhistle speaking. I need to speak to Lieutenant Michael Maynard,” Reg said as soon as he heard someone answer the phone. “It’s urgent.”

“Yessir. I shall call Lt. Maynard at once, Sir.”

Reg waited in silence for Mike to reach the phone, he assumed that the army base must be a fairly large one. And maybe they would need to wake Mike up - especially if he’d been out on a training exercise all day. But he was obviously back now, and he needed to know, so Reg felt very little guilt in making the phone call.

“Reg, is that you?” Mike’s voice came down the line.

“Mike, thank God. Have you got any of the messages Helena left?”

“Messages? What messages? No. Got back an hour ago, bloody nightmare of an exercise. Been relaxing in the mess. Everything alright?”

“No. Look, Helena’s been trying to get hold you all day. She’s left messages with people telling you to ring us as soon as possible. It’s your mother.”

“What do you mean ‘it’s my mother’?” Mike shot back. “What’s happened? Tell me man.”

“She…she’s had a stroke. Some paralysis, loss of memory.”

“Will she live?”

Reg was slightly taken aback by the bluntness, the matter of fact tone his brother-in-law used before remembering that he as a soldier and probably used to seeing death.

“As far as we can tell, but we’re not sure what the damage is. She can’t remember anything about the last twenty years.”

“God. She’d probably rather be dead. What do you need me to do?”

“Well buck up for a start,” Reg replied irritably. “That kind of attitude isn’t helping. Connie’s here, get yourself here as fast as you can.”

“Right-o. I’ll talk to the Commandant. Get some compassionate leave. First transport to the Platz. Should be there by tomorrow. I’ll fly over.”

“Thanks, Mike.”

“No – thank you. For telling me I mean. Bloody awful. I’ll do what I can. Am I the last?”

“No, I still have to call Margot.”

“Good luck with that.” Mike paused. “No, I mean it. You’ll probably need it. See you tomorrow.”

Reg listened as Mike put the phone down abruptly, then let his own receiver drop frm his hands. Exhausted but strangely relieved by that phone call to his brother-in-law Reg picked up the phone again and dialled.
Author:  Carolyn P [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 9:56 pm ]
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Excellent, thank you. I love Reg in this.
Author:  Chair [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 10:12 pm ]
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Thanks, Fran. It's good that Reg has been able to get in touch with Mike.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 10:26 pm ]
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Excellent Reg!
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 10:30 pm ]
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I don't normally like Reg, but he's really being a SLOC here.
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Mar 14, 2007 11:07 pm ]
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So Mike joined the Army, not the Navy then? Can understand him being blunt and speaking his mind - and loved the way he immediately decided he'd be there - no fuss.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  alicat [ Thu Mar 15, 2007 10:48 am ]
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loved mike, now have very strong mental picture of him (quite dishy picture actually...ummmm must stop that line of thought before a bunny find it...)

this is a fascinating way to update them all
Author:  brie [ Thu Mar 15, 2007 6:09 pm ]
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thanks fran
Author:  francesn [ Sat Mar 24, 2007 10:13 pm ]
Post subject: 
Sorry for the gap between updates - Gathering got in the way, and then I had an essay to do, but here's a bit more. Thanks for all the comments!

“I don’t care where she is or what she’s doing!” Reg said tightly to the nun on the other end of the telephone.. “Yes, I’m aware what time it is. Believe me, Margot, sorry…Sister Mary Damian will want to know. It’s about her mother.”

“Our sisters are aware then when they dedicate their lives to Christ they leave their families behind,” came the reply.

“Look, Sister Mary whatever-your-name was, I thought you were supposed to be Christian?! Well have a little bit of Christian charity and compassion, my wife is making herself ill over this and she needs to know that her sister knows, so when she calls you again tomorrow I want you to make sure that Sister Mary Damian is there and ready to speak to her, and if she isn’t in that convent with you then tell my wife where my sister is and how she can get in touch with her!”

Reg could only just restrain himself from shouting at the nun.

“I understand that you’re upset, Mr…”

“Doctor, actually. Doctor Entwhistle.”

“Dr Entwhistle, but really our sisters have dedicated their lives to God, and Him alone, and our earthly families are just others amongst God’s Children…”

“And what I understand, as a medical professional, is that my wife is under extreme strain and talking to her sister would be beneficial for her.”

The silence at the other end of the telephone spoke volumes to Reg. Finally the nun spoke.

“I will see what I can do.”

“Thank you,” Reg said, civility feeling odd mingled with the anger he had felt and the fierce love he had for his wife.

He put the telephone down and took a sip of his coffee, which he nearly spat back out again as it was cold.

“Daddy,” came a soft voice behind him. He jumped and jogged the coffee down his shirt.

“Blast!” he said under his breath. He turned around, dabbing at the brown stain spreading over the blue. “Sorry, Jen. Did you want something?”

“I heard you on the telephone,” his eldest daughter said. “You should be in bed, you know. You’ll be no use to anyone if you’re tired.”

“Bless you, poppet,” her father said affectionately. “You sound exactly like Matron Lloyd – Auntie Gwyneth. Do you remember her?”

“Of course I remember her,” Jen said indignantly. “Even Feebs remembers Auntie Gwyn. Mums could do with her now, really. She needs someone to look after her.”

Reg swallowed a lump in his throat as his daughter looked up at him wistfully.

“I am trying my best, Daddy,” she said. “I know about Granny. Mums told me – I think she had to tell someone. It must be horrid to not remember things. Like when you take a French test and you know that you learned the words, and they’re there somewhere, but you can’t remember what they mean.”

“Yes…” Reg nodded. “That’s probably how your Granny’s feeling right now.”

“And sometimes you have to guess and you get the words wrong,” Jen went on. “And then everyone gets disappointed in your. But you tried your best. I won’t ever be disappointed in Granny – even if she can never remember me, I promise I won’t. I’ll just get to know her all over again.”
Author:  Sarah_K [ Sat Mar 24, 2007 10:52 pm ]
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Oh Fran, that last bit was just beautiful. Jen is really a lovely child, and very much as Len migh have been and I'm sure Reg and Len are very gald to have her!

Thank you.
Author:  Pat [ Sat Mar 24, 2007 10:58 pm ]
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That is just how Mum is - trying the find the right word, and sometimes failing completely. Sometimes the wrong one comes out so she sounds confused. It's especially hard for her with names, She knows who she's talking to but the wrong name comes out, so people think she doesn't know. So very frustrating.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 5:57 am ]
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Glad to see the update. Poor Reg
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 6:27 am ]
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Cam understand why Reg was getting so angry - Jen is lovely.


Thanks Fran
Author:  Saffronya [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 10:30 am ]
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Just found this. Really enjoying it. Like how realistic the family all seem. can'r wait to hear more about them, and what happens to Joey and how her recovery (I hope :shock: !)goes...
Author:  Miranda [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 10:40 am ]
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Jen is so lovely there! Especially that very end sentence :)

I hope that Len does get a chance to speak to Margot...
Author:  brie [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 10:56 am ]
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that was lovely, thanks fran
Author:  Fatima [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 1:36 pm ]
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Good for Reg - he was very persistent! And Jen is a sweetie.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  francesn [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 7:56 pm ]
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Morning dawned on the Platz. The first pale rays of sun touched Joey’s bed as she lay in the San, watched by her second daughter. The same rays touched Helena as she lay sleeping and her son Alex in the room above. They crept through the kitchen window to her husband sitting at the table and her daughter, curled up in a chair, covered by a blanket. The sun moved on to Jack, sleeping a sleep filled with dreams of the Joey he first knew, so different to the woman lying in the hospital bed unable to move one side of her body and finding it hard to speak. Joey, who had chattered and laughed so much.

And miles away, in a station in Brussels, the same sun touched a man in his thirties waiting for a train to Switzerland. He checked his watch, then the station clock impatiently. Although the train wasn’t due for another five minutes he was tight as a coiled spring ready to board it the minute it arrived for all he projected an aura of calm. He supposed that was what being a diplomat was all about.

When the news came about his mother Stephen Maynard had very calmly rung his superior to explain the situation, rung London to arrange a replacement, told his secretary he would be away for at least two weeks, rung his wife to tell her what was happening and that he would be home shortly, written a letter for his replacement detailing precisely where everything was and what needed to doing in the next 2 weeks and then walked out the office door to get home. Once he had reached his house he had calmly comforted his wife, told his three children that their Granny was in hospital, rung the station to find out train times, packed a bag for the following morning and then he had locked himself in his study and cried. It was only his wife knocking on the door two hours later to say his brother was on the line that brought him out of his reverie.

After a brief conversation with Charles Stephen went through to the kitchen where he found his wife sitting staring at a glass of wine.

“Wine, ma chere?” she asked, rising as he entered and moving over to the counter. “And something to eat. You need your strength.”

“Thank you, Sophie,” he managed to say, sitting at the table. “Just something light. One of your omelettes maybe.”

“But of course,” Sophie said, placing a glass of red wine in front of him. “We will be fine, whilst you are gone, you know.”

Stephen gave a start, then smiled. “You always know what I’m thinking, you French witch, you.”

“Not always,” Sophie returned with a small smile, starting to gather ingredients for the omelette. “But most of the time. Not because I am French, because I am a woman. I know what worries you.”

“You know you can always ask the service for any help you need?” he checked. “And I won’t be long, I’ll call every day.”

“It will be fine,” she soothed pouring the beaten eggs into a small frying pan. “We will be fine. And so will your mother.”

“She won’t know who you are, you know,” Stephen said harshly. “She won’t know about anything I’ve done, we’ve done. She won’t know about Isabelle, or Camille, or Luc.”

Sophie was silent as she placed the omelette on a plate and chopped some herbs to sprinkle over the top.

“She will remember, you know,” she eventually replied with certainty. “And you will help her remember. You will take photographs, and you will talk to her. If we have to meet her all over again, bien-sur. She will enjoy it!”

“But she shouldn’t have to.” Steve picked up his knife and fork and began to eat. Behind him Sophie cut chunks of crusty baguette and put them in a basket before returning to sit at the table opposite him.

“You will be brave,” Sophie told him, stroking his cheek. “And everything will be fine.”
Author:  Alison H [ Sun Mar 25, 2007 10:26 pm ]
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It's really sad reading about Joey but it's interesting seeing where all the children's lives are at.
Author:  Eilidh [ Mon Mar 26, 2007 1:56 pm ]
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Thanks Fran, I'm enjoying this, even though it's sad.
Author:  brie [ Mon Mar 26, 2007 4:04 pm ]
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me too
Author:  Fatima [ Mon Mar 26, 2007 4:33 pm ]
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Stephen's found himself a treasure here!

Thanks Fran.
Author:  francesn [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 8:50 pm ]
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“Mamma, it’s Connie. Are you awake?”

“Con….where did you come from?” Joey opened her eyes and tried to place the face in front of her. The face could be her second daughter – the black hair now cut stylishly short and the big brown eyes. Pink and white skin still, but Joey had the oddest feeling she was looking into her own face. The face she last remembered seeing.

“I live in London now, Mamma. I flew over as soon as I could. How are you feeling?”

“Tired,” Joey replied, yawning.

Connie tried to conceal her shock as she noticed how one side of her mother’s face didn’t respond. The eye drooped at the corner and her mouth was slack. She was surprised at how hesitant and slurred her mother’s speech was too, although her father and Reg had both told her what to expect. They’d warned her Joey might not be her normal happy-go-lucky self. All in all Connie wanted to cry. The last time Connie had seen her mother, well that would have been at Phil’s wedding, nearly a year ago now.

“I’m sorry, Mamma,” she said, tears sliding down her cheeks. “I’m sorry…”

She watched helplessly as tears welled up in her mother’s eyes too and rolled down her cheeks. ‘Help me’ her eyes seemed to plead.

“Not your fault,” Joey struggled to say. “Doctor, don’t recognise him, says I won’t be able to do maths…” She struggled to smile but the effect was twisted and grotesque. To Connie though it was a ray of hope.

“That doesn’t matter,” she said cheerfully. “You don’t need to do maths! You never could anyway, you were the bane of every maths teacher’s existence at school, everyone said so. Besides I never could! Everyone said I took after you in that respect.”

Jo’s eyes filled with tears again.

“What? What did I say? Mamma?” Connie asked desperately.

“Remember that. Nothing else but remember that.”

“Oh that’s good! You remember things, and eventually you’ll remember everything, won’t you? I’ll tell you lots of things that have happened and you’ll remember it all!” Connie rushed on. “Well after we left school Helena and I went to Oxford, and Margot went to Edinburgh just like we planned. Then Helena married Reg, and Margot became a nun, and I got a job at a newspaper in London. You and Papa were ever so good to me when I was a struggling journalist. Do you remember my first published article? No? Never mind, I’ll show you some day. And Steve went to university and did history, he works for the Civil Service now, living in Brussels with his wife, and they have three lovely children. Charles is a teacher at a prep school in Buckinghamshire, he and his wife are houseparents and the boys just adore their two children. Mike, well Mike’s in the army, we never really hear from him…”

Connie talked on and on, and Joey lay there, despairing of ever remembering the information flooding out of Connie let alone the events in reality.
Author:  Lesley [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 9:15 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh poor Joey - she's being overwhelmed by information. :cry:


Thanks Fran
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Tue Mar 27, 2007 9:24 pm ]
Post subject: 
This must be so hard for everyone. The kids wanting their Mother being the way she was and struggling to realize that she isn't
Author:  brie [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 3:21 pm ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran, this is so moving
Author:  francesn [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 4:53 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Geoff, Cecy, listen, I’m going out to the Platz.”

Phil looked at her twin and the sister closest her in age, waiting for their response.

“What does Jon say?” Cecy asked. “Is it alright for her to go, Geoff?”

“I don’t really know, I’m not qualified as a doctor yet!” Geoff retorted. “But as long as she’s careful and she doesn’t fly…I’ll have to look it up in a textbook or something. Or ask someone.”

“Oh what’s the use of having a doctor in the family if he can’t give you answers when you need them?” Phil said playfully, poking her twin in the ribs. “Don’t be such a fusspot – Bump and I will be fine! And I’m going to a mountain full of doctors. What could possibly go wrong? And Jon says I can go if I want. He’s terribly relaxed.”

“I’d have though he’d want to go with you,” Cecy said. “I would, but it’s not the end of term for another three weeks. Can’t you wait?”

“Errrr no?” Phil replied. “Honestly, Cecy, someone needs to go as soon as possible, and I’m not working so it might as well be me. You can’t, Geoff can’t, Charles can’t, Felix WON’T…..”

“Do you think he’s even got the news yet?” Geoff interrupted.

“Oh yes, Helena said she spoke to him. Not sure whether it registered, he was thinking about some particle or other, but he has heard. You might want to go up there and check, one of you, don’t care which.” Phil sighed. “He has his head in the clouds, and I don’t know where Fliss is, although she’s just as bad with her music. It’s good someone in this family is remarkably untalented.”

“You’re not bad at the flute…” Geoff began.

“I know, I know, and average at languages, didn’t excel in science, alright at English – point is I wasn’t startlingly good at anything,” Phil laughed. “I don’t care. Someone has to be normal.”

“I’m normal!” Cecy protested indignantly.

“Cecy, pet, speaking eight languages fluently isn’t normal. Three might be, I’ll give you that, everyone at school spoke three. Four is acceptable –lots of people took extra Italian, but when you added Spanish and Russian you became a bit special. And then Latin and ancient Greek? Well non-one even speaks those languages any more! And you’re teaching at university level at the age of 26!”

“But back to the topic in question….you were always far too good at changing the subject, Phil, really!”

“Well I don’t know,” Geoff said. “I can find out, but I don’t see why it should hurt as long as she takes things slowly…”

“See, it’ll be fine. I knew it. Jon will see me on the train tomorrow. And I’ll change at Paris, and get someone to meet me at the other end.”

“I think you should break in Paris,” Cecy said bossily. “Adrienne will have you. Has anyone told Adrienne?”

“Don’t know,” Geoff said laconically.

“Well don’t you think someone should?” Cecy said. “And what about Erica, or Claire? Ruey? Roger? Roddy? Do you think anyone’s told Mary-Lou?”

“NO!” the twins shouted in unison.

“Don’t…” Phil began.

“..you dare….” Geoff continued.

“…even think about telling…”

“…HER!” both twins finished in unison.

“You know she’ll only come in and take charge. And she’ll upset Helena. Don’t you remember what she did the last time she got involved? When Auntie Nell died? She just swanned in and organised everything and Helena was Auntie Nell’s god-daughter, it was her job, because Mamma and Auntie Hilda were too upset….” Phil stopped suddenly.

“You won’t, will you?” Geoff pleaded.

“But how can we not tell her?” Cecy pointed out reasonably. “You know full well she hasn’t got anyone, except Verity but she doesn’t really count. She’ll want to know Mamma’s ill.”

“But she’ll ruin everything,” Phil wailed.

“Oh, Phil, don’t get upset…” Cecy soothed. “I won’t tell her yet, not until we know more. Alright? But we have to tell her sometime.”
Author:  Sarah_K [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 5:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
The three youngest Maynards are rather wonderful together :D and well done Cecy for thinking about the wards though if Mary Lou is still that controlling I can't help thinking she might not be all that helpful...

Thanks Fran :)
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 5:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
Grrr about Mary Lou - don't want her interfering.


Thanks Fran
Author:  Fatima [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 5:38 pm ]
Post subject: 
I really like the sound of the three youngest Maynards here!

And, in her defense, Mary-Lou would be practical and dependable even if she might well be bossy and domineering. She would provide a shoulder to cry on, though.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 8:58 pm ]
Post subject: 
It'll be interesting to see how Mary-Lou's turned out, if they do decide to contact her.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Mar 28, 2007 10:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
I really liked the interaction between the youngest three and its interesting they never liked her. I wouldn't have thought she would have had much to do with them? Anyway love the update and the fact Phil is boringly normal
Author:  brie [ Thu Mar 29, 2007 4:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran, you have really made these characters alive
Author:  Liss [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 1:16 pm ]
Post subject: 
Ah, it's always nice to see them grown up and happy! Look forward to the next part.
Author:  francesn [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 3:13 pm ]
Post subject: 
Not all happy I'm afraid, Liss!

Three days after Jo was first admitted to the San those of her children present on the Platz congregated in the salon at Freudesheim. Reg joined them, but Jack could not be prised away from his wife’s side.

“She just seems a shadow of herself,” Helena said tiredly. “And so unhappy.”

“Well you’d be unhappy if you’d lost twenty years of your life, damnit!” Mike swore. “It must be bloody awful for her, seeing us all and not knowing who we are.”

Connie sighed loudly. “I wish you wouldn’t swear like that,” she said in an abstract manner. “Mamma wouldn’t like it. Anyway, what’s going on?”

“With what?” Helena asked by way of reply.

“With Mamma, with everyone. I had a call from Phil last night. She’s in Paris with Adrienne. I do think it was mean of you to leave her, and the others out of it. Claire was horribly upset when she found out,” Connie said.

“She would be, it was Cecy who told her,” Mike muttered.

“Less of that, Mike,” Stephen said suddenly. “Look – we should have told them, but give Helena a break. She had a lot to deal with.”

“But forgetting….oh well it doesn’t matter, they know now. And I suppose they couldn’t have done anything even if they knew. But Phil’s getting the train today, overnighting it from Paris, so she’ll be here tomorrow morning,” Connie continued. “Margot, Helena spoke to, finally, and she’ll try to be here, but she has to wait for approval from her Mother Superior. Charles will come at the end of term, he says Ellie and the kids can go to her parents if necessary, but I said he could bring them if he wanted. There’s enough room around the place. I take it we’re all putting up here? Apart from Helena and Reg.”

Stephen and Mike nodded.

“Felicity will come when her concerts are done, and Geoff’s going to see Felix this weekend,” Connie looked around. “Who have I forgotten?”

“Auntie Madge says she wants to fly over as soon as she can,” Stephen put in. “And Uncle Dick says he’ll try to come.”

“She won’t know them, no point,” Mike muttered again.

“Oh cut it out!” Stephen shouted.

“Well there isn’t any flaming point is there? You know as well as well as we all do our mother doesn’t remember a bloody thing about the past twenty years, and flooding her with people and information isn’t going to help!” Mike yelled back. “I’ve got a week and then I have to go back to base. I want to spend some time with my mother before I do. And I don’t want her upset!”

Silence descended upon the group. Helena clasping her husband’s hand tight, Connie fiddling with her handbag, Stephen looking ashamed at his feet and Mike standing by the mantelpiece looking at a photograph of a smiling Joey and Jack taken at Phil’s wedding.

Reg cleared his throat awkwardly.

“He’s right, you know,” he said. “Joey needs to take things slowly….she’s got a lot of catching up to do, so what I suggest is that we work out some kind of rota. Mike has to be back in a week, so he gets priority for the next few days, then Steven and Connie, as they have to be back next. Then we’ll try to introduce Phil – except we might want her husband here as well.” He broke off, looking around at the confused expression of the group. “Ah…Phil’s expecting an, um, addition to the family. I only know because she asked me whether it was safe for her to travel. Which it is. I take it not all of you knew….”

“But, I only say her a few weeks ago!” Connie gasped.

“She never said anything,” Stephen said.

“Well, yes, so that’s some good news. But it means we’re going to have to be a bit careful with her. So no shocks. She’s going to need to be quite prepared before she see Jo, and take things slowly.” Reg trailed off.

“What is happening with Mother?” Steven asked. “What can we expect? I only saw her briefly but…”

“Well, simply, when your mother had her stroke it affected the left side of her brain, so the right side of her body has been paralysed. She has trouble speaking, as you might have noticed, and not all of that is the paralysis. She has trouble remembering words. Jen said it was like taking a test when you knew you’d learnt the words but they wouldn’t come to you. And the memory loss you all know about. Her mathematical and organisational abilities might be affected…”

“It’s Mamma,” Connie smiled weakly. “We wouldn’t notice…”

“But also her ability to write might be affected – physically write I mean,” Reg continued. “Reading might be a struggle and, well she’ll probably find it difficult to learn new information. So we’re going to have to make sure we don’t overwhelm her.”
Author:  Alison H [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 3:21 pm ]
Post subject: 
Reg is being wonderful here.
Author:  Sarah_K [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 6:00 pm ]
Post subject: 
I can understand Mike's frustration when there are all these other people around and he can't stay, poor guy. Nice to see Reg living up to the SLOC title though :D

Thanks Fran
Author:  Lesley [ Fri Mar 30, 2007 6:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
It would be a left sided stroke, wouldn't it? If it had been right it wouldn't have hit the speech centre.


Poor Joey - will she be able to write? Or even read? :cry:



Thanks Fran
Author:  MaryR [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 4:17 pm ]
Post subject: 
A typical family scene when there's a problem - tempers flaring at the slightest provocation, but still all there for each other.

Thanks, Frances
Author:  francesn [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 4:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Okay so I am mean and made it be a left sided stroke for maximum angst....

“What can we do, Reg?” Helena asked her husband later that night, as they cleared away the dishes from dinner.

“With what?” Reg asked, running water into the sink.

“About Mamma. Mind that plate by your elbow, by the way,” Helena said as she deposited the bowls on the side.

“To help her you mean?”

Reg thought for a moment as he carefully rinsed a glass and placed it on the draining board. He wasn’t entirely sure himself, as his entire working life had been spent on the Platz, mostly acting as a GP for the families and the school when he realised that specialising in TB was far from what he wanted to do. Besides, he was happy working in the community, isolated as it was from the rest of the world. The problem, of course, was that he was very good at dealing with minor illnesses and had a fair amount of experience in obstetrics but had rarely had to deal with anything else. That was just the way the Platz was – an isolated British community made up of the school, both pupils and teachers, the families connected with the school, the staff of the San and a few local families. None of whom had had a stroke in the last twenty years that he’d had to deal with. And now his wife was expecting him to know.

“I’m not entirely sure,” he said finally. “You’d be better talking to some of the chaps that specialise in the kind of thing, but I suppose showing her photos of events if you can. She recognises faces as you know, and seeing photographs might help jog her memory a bit. She hasn’t forgotten everything – she just can’t get to it. They’re trying to establish what she can remember, but it all seems to be before we were married, before you’d even left school.”

“I suppose,” Helena said, frowning. “I just don’t know what to do. Somehow I have to sort everyone else out, and look after Father, and then the children need me too. You see, in about a month or so everyone will go away again. And she’s not going to get better that soon, is she?”

Reg didn’t really need to answer that question but he did so anyway.

“I’m afraid not. Her memory won’t come back all at once, it will be patchy for, well, years.”

“Oh Reg,” Helena sighed, putting her arms around him. “What am I going to do?”
Author:  Fatima [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 4:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
I'm glad Helena has Reg to turn to, as it's going to be tough on her, holding everything together once her siblings have left the Platz.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 5:03 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Len - Helena - cannot get used to that!

Thanks Fran
Author:  Alison H [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 5:54 pm ]
Post subject: 
The doctors at the San always did seem to be expected to cope with everything from smallpox to spinal injuries, even though they were meant to be TB specialists ...
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sat Mar 31, 2007 11:17 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear, and she should be getting the stimulation and treatment now, for it to have the maximum effect.

Interesting to see that like any family, they have their disagreements and difficulties. And Reg is being so supportive.
Author:  Josie [ Sun Apr 01, 2007 8:21 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Len. Poor all of them. :cry:

Thanks Fran, this is superb. Glad to see you back drabbling again!
x
Author:  brie [ Sun Apr 01, 2007 10:41 am ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran this is really great

((len))
Author:  francesn [ Sun Apr 01, 2007 9:59 pm ]
Post subject: 
Mike cleared his throat awkwardly as he sat down beside his mother’s bedside and took her hand. All the visitors sat on the left hand side now, Joey seemed to prefer it.

“Hullo, Mother,” he offered. “It’s Mike here. How are you feeling?”

Joey slowly turned her head and attempted a smile as she saw her son.

“Better,” Joey tried to say.

“That’s good,” Mike said heartily. “You gave us an awful fright, y’know. Reg called the duty officer in the middle of the night to get hold of me. Never seen the chap move so fast!”

This time Joey really did smile although the right side of her face still looked as though she had just been to the dentist and had an injection of novocaine. Mike smiled a little at the thought – his mother would definitely have preferred a visit to the dentist. At least that was temporary. He banished such thoughts to the back of his mind and racked his brain for something cheerful.

“Have you been a good boy, Mike?” Joey was asking.

“Course I have,” he replied as bravely as he could. “I’m in the army, I’m not allowed to be anything else!”

“Since when you been in the army?” Joey asked, rallying a little and raising her head to peer at him intently. “And what happened to your hair?”

Inside Mike’s heart was breaking, but he answered the questions.

“I’ve been in the army for fifteen years now, we have to have short hair in the army.”

“Are you doing well?”

Mike’s eyes filled with tears. His parents had been so proud of him and his achievements in the forces. He remembered the day that he left home, really finally left home, to join up. He remembered his passing out parade and the smiling faces of his parents, Joey bravely trying to conceal the worry she so obviously felt over his safety. He remembered his first leave, when he went home in his uniform, his mother’s face mingling surprise and pleasure. Her face when he left, obviously not wanting him to go. And now the situations were completely reversed – he was the one trying to put a brave face on things.

“Yes, Mamma, I am,” he said. “Look – I’ve got some photos. This is my passing out parade…”

They looked at the photographs together, both desperately hoping that something, somewhere would be the magic key that could unlock the last twenty years, but nothing fitted.
Author:  Alison H [ Sun Apr 01, 2007 10:25 pm ]
Post subject: 
This must be so hard for everyone :cry: .
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sun Apr 01, 2007 11:31 pm ]
Post subject: 
They're such simple questions and they carry such a weight of meaning. Poor Mike, and poor Joey.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 6:00 am ]
Post subject: 
That phrase - have you been a good boy? - shows immediately how desperate Joey's problem is - she sees Mike as the naughty little boy, she cannot remember his growing up and her pride in his achievements. :cry:


Thanks Fran
Author:  brie [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 8:03 am ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran

this is heartbreaking
Author:  Jennie [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 12:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, Fran.
Author:  wheelchairprincess [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 6:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank You Fran, this is really well written.
Author:  aitchemelle [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 7:32 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Fran, I have just read all that you have written and its very sad and moving. Thank you too for creating a Reg that I like and respect! :)
Author:  MaryR [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 7:44 pm ]
Post subject: 
Awful having to be the adult and your mother now the child. :cry:

Thanks, Frances
Author:  francesn [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 8:14 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Felix.”

Felix Maynard remained completely oblivious to the soft voice calling him as he studied the papers showing the latest results of his experiments.

“There’s something here…” he pondered. “Something not quite right. If…maybe we tried…no that wouldn’t work. I wonder..”

He made a note in his neat and precise handwriting on a pad of paper he kept near him at all times.

“Felix!”

The voice came again.

“What? Oh? Mags, is that you?” Felix said absently. “I’d love a coffee if you’re offering.”

“I wasn’t actually,” Margaret Jacobs replied. “Your brother’s here to see you.”

“What, Steve? No – wait, he’s abroad. Charles? Mike?”

“Geoff actually,” Mags said, blushing a little. “He’s waiting downstairs, are you going to be long?”

“No, no. Let me just write this down…and I’ll be there. Won’t be a sec…”

Mags left but Felix didn’t notice, engrossed as he was in writing his latest theory on why the experiment hadn’t worked as predicted.

“There must be something we can’t see, that we haven’t detected. But the mass spectrometry reading….” he muttered to himself.

“He says he won’t be long,” Mags said as she rejoined Geoff. “But then I don’t think he really operates on the same timescale as everyone else. Look, take a seat. Do you want a coffee?”

“That would be really nice. Thanks,” Geoff responded nervously.

Mags wasn’t most peoples idea of a particle physicist. At five foot nine she was only a little shorter than Geoff himself, and her black hair fell in waves nearly to her waist. She smiled a lot and was refreshingly down to earth compared to most of the inhabitants of the lab. Geoff watched as she vanished into the kitchen.

“How do you take your coffee?” she asked.

“Black, three sugars, please,” Geoff called back.

“Three?” Mags popped her head around the door. “That’ll rot your teeth good and fast.”

“I don’t like it any other way. A surfeit of milky coffee as a kid I suppose…..not like Felix.”

An enchanting giggle floated out from the kitchen. “You know, I took him an espresso with half a pint of milk the other day and he said it was the best coffee he’d had!”

“Sounds like my brother,” Geoff laughed.

“You know I can hardly believe you two are related. I mean you look so different – he’s so skinny and fair, whereas you’ve got a bit of meat on your bones, and your hair’s red…”

“The fruits of playing rugger I suppose,”

“What? The red hair, or the build?”

“The build, I meant,” Geoff answered. “The red hair I can’t help.”

“It’s nice though. Suits you.”

Geoff flushed bright red just as Mags returned with the coffee.

“Not when you’re face looks like a beetroot,” she quipped.

“Sorry, I…I mean…I’m not used to people commenting on my hair,” Geoff stammered. “Thanks for the coffee, by the way.”

“No problem. Least I can do seeing as Felix will be hours. What brings you here anyway?” Mags asked, sipping her steaming mug of coffee.

“Our mother’s ill, and well, my twin said someone had to come and make sure that Felix got the news. Our eldest sister spoke to him, but you know what he’s like. Well you spend every day with him so you must do. Anyway, Phil told me to come, so I did,” Geoff finished lamely.

Inwardly he was kicking himself. Mike would have added something witty like ‘well, apart from to see you….’ or ‘for the pleasure of your company of course’.

Mags’ face filled with sympathy. “Is she very ill?” she asked.

“Well, yes. I don’t really know the details, she’s had a stroke and she doesn’t remember awfully much. Still thinks Phil and I are in the nursery when I’m nearly finished training as a doctor, and Phil’s married and expecting a baby to boot. It’s like twenty years have been wiped from her memory.”

“I’m sure she’ll be fine,” Mags offered. “She’ll have lots of catching up to do – there are squads and squads of you, aren’t there?”

“11, not counting the wards and adoptees.”

“I wish I’d had a big family,” Mags said longingly. “It was awfully lonely as a kid…Oh, I think I can hear Felix coming along. I’ll let the two of you get on, but keep in touch. I’d like to know how your mother’s getting on and Felix won’t tell me. I read all her books as a kid – wrote her a letter once and she replied to it. I was the happiest kid on the planet for months after that! But, I mean it, keep in touch. Okay?”

“Sure. And Mags?”

She turned back towards him.

“Thanks.”
Author:  aitchemelle [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 8:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Fran! I love being first to read the next update! :)
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 9:02 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hmmmm, Mags and Geoff - some good has come of this then.


Thanks Fran
Author:  Chelsea [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 9:08 pm ]
Post subject: 
What a sweet interlude.

I love how you mix in scences that like into the rest of the story - reminds us that good things can happen in the midst of grief.
Author:  Dawn [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 9:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
That's such a lovely update
Author:  Cath V-P [ Mon Apr 02, 2007 11:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
I loved Felix, the abstracted scientist....I know a number of those!

Thank you Frances.
Author:  Fatima [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 4:29 am ]
Post subject: 
Yes, it's nice to see some hope in amongst all the despair.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Clare [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 7:54 am ]
Post subject: 
Lesley wrote:
Hmmmm, Mags and Geoff - some good has come of this then.


*Nods in agreement* :wink:
Author:  Carolyn P [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 7:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is lovely Fran, so tender and sad, but lovely.
Author:  francesn [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 10:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Felix, have I got all your attention?” Geoff asked once they’d ordered their meal in the café.

“What? Oh, yes. I am listening.”

“Look here, Felix, this is important!” Geoff said angrily, wanting to shake his older brother.

“I am listening to you,” Felix repeated.

“Good – it’s about Mamma,” Geoff began.

“Oh yes, she’s not well, is she worse?” Felix asked absently. “I hope she doesn’t die soon, we’re in the middle of some frightfully delicate stuff, and it would throw the project out completely.”

“Is that all you care about?” Geoff said, raising his voice. “You and your bloody physics experiments? This is our mother! Our mother! Remember her? Remember the rest of your family? And the only reason you don’t want her to die is because it’s inconvenient for you to leave your experiments!”

“No I was just saying….”

“Stuff your ‘just saying’! I’m leaving. I don’t know why I bothered to come here, you just go back to your precious experiments and the rest of us will leave you alone.” Geoff pushed his chair back and stood up. Placing his hands on the table he leant over to look Felix in the eye. “You just think about what’s important to you. Those bloody particles aren’t going to go anywhere. You’re the only person in the country crack-brained enough to be researching them, I’d have thought you could spare a couple of week to go and see you mother. And just so you know – she’s not dying, she’s a bit better, but she’ll be bloody amazed at what her 9 year old son is getting up to.”

Geoff stormed out the café, blinking back tears, leaving a stunned Felix sat behind him.
Author:  Eilidh [ Tue Apr 03, 2007 10:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oooh, can't sleep means I'm first with the updates. Thanks Fran - methinks Felix could be doing with a wake-up call!
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 5:31 am ]
Post subject: 
Surprised Geoff didn't punch Felix then - Felix doesn't seem to care about anything, does he? :evil:


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Fatima [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 6:08 am ]
Post subject: 
Felix really does seem to live in another world. Let's hope Geoff's words give him a wake up call.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  brie [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 8:02 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran

i hope felix comes around....
Author:  Sarah_K [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 8:48 am ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear. I know one or two academics who can get a bit like that when immersed in their research but really Felix deserved every word of it!

Thanks Fran.
Author:  aitchemelle [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 9:22 am ]
Post subject: 
Thank you Fran! Felix certainly does deserve those words but will he be too absorbed to listen?
Author:  Liz K [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 6:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear, poor Geoff, poor Felix!
Author:  francesn [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 9:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Mother,” Helena said gently. “Are you awake, mother?”

“Yes, precious. Mamma’s here.”

“Good…..I’ve brought someone to see you.”

Helena motioned her daughter to come and stand by the bed, where Joey could see her if she opened her eyes. Helena gave her daughter a hug and nodded.

“Hello, Granny,” a small voice said. “My name’s Jen, I’m your grand-daughter.”

Slowly Joey opened her eyes, taking in the shoulder length fair hair, the big grey eyes and the face which strongly resembled her own. The grey eyes held her gaze confidently but the girl chewed her lower lip belying her nervousness.

“Hello, Jen,” Joey replied, trying to keep her voice steady. “I’m your Granny, but you already know that.”

Jen giggled. Joey smiled a small smile.

“Mums says you can’t remember anything. Not me, not Phoebe or Alex or Tom or anyone,” the girl said directly.

“Well, I remember your Mother, and all your uncles and aunts, but they weren’t much older than you are now. But no, I don’t remember anything else.”

“That’s okay,” Jen said comfortably. “We’ll just get to know each other all over again. I’ll start. What’s your favourite place?”

“Um…I suppose it’s my rose garden. It was a cabbage patch when we bought that house,” Joey said smiling. “What’s yours?”

“I like your rose garden too, but my favourite place is the cubey I had in Gentian last year, because I had the window cubey and I could see Freudesheim from it. If I had time in the morning I used to watch you take Hans for his morning walk.”

Jen caught her mothers eyed and tagged on the end. “Hans is the dog.”

“Oh…Is it my turn to ask a question?”

Jen nodded impatiently. “What’s your favourite subject at school?”

“Oh that’s easy,” Jen said instantly. “English. Was that yours too?”

“No, mine was history,” Joey replied. “I always liked finding out more about people and places from long ago.”

“Well that’s lucky, cos you’ve got lots of history to catch up on. My whole life f’rinstance!”

Joey turned her head away from the eager girl in front of her.

“Maybe Granny’s feeling a bit tired now,” Helena jumped in. “I think we should let her have a little sleep and come back in a few days.”

“Can I come tomorrow, Granny?” Jen asked.

“We’ll have to ask Daddy,” Helena said, answering for her mother. “Come on, darling. Granny’s tired.”

“’Kay,” Jen said. “’Bye, Granny. Have a nice rest.”
Author:  Alison H [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 9:13 pm ]
Post subject: 
Jen is lovely, but how hard this must be for everyone.
Author:  aitchemelle [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 9:17 pm ]
Post subject: 
Aw bless her. She must find it really hard to understand. Thank you Fran x
Author:  Lizzie [ Wed Apr 04, 2007 10:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Ooh, this is great Fran. Sweet and funny and poignant too. And I hope Felix gets sorted out and goes to see Joey soon...
Author:  Cath V-P [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 12:36 am ]
Post subject: 
That was lovely - in a way her matter-of-fact acceptance of this is quite restful.
Author:  Fatima [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 4:40 am ]
Post subject: 
Jen is so lovely. Thanks Fran.
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 5:47 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran -Jen is a lovely girl.
Author:  francesn [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 11:06 am ]
Post subject: 
Last update til the 12th April! Nagging is permitted if I don't update then!

“I don’t know her,” Joey said listlessly when Jack came in later bearing stacks of photo albums. This had become their daily ritual. “I don’t remember her at all. My own grandchild and I don’t know who she is.”

“It’s going to be okay, Jo,” Jack said. “I promise, it’s going to be fine. You’re going to remember everything. It’ll just take a little time. Look - I brought the photos of Helena’s wedding today, I thought you could look at them.”

“Oh Jack, I don’t want to….I don’t think I could face not being able to remember.”

Jack patted his wife’s hand. She turned her head away from him, but he was sure that tears were rolling silently down her cheeks.

“But you’re improving. You are!” Jack said desperately. “Your speech is so much better, and your right side is stronger. Dr Benson thinks that it’s not paralysis at all, merely some kind of weakness and your muscles will respond to exercise.”

“Stacie?”

“No, Henry Benson. He’s been here about five years now….” Jack squeezed his eyes shut to prevent his own tears escaping. “So you see, Jo, the more you talk, the better your talking will get! And maybe the same will work with your memory, maybe the more we tell you, the more you try to remember the easier it will be…”

“I don’t remember,” Jo said. “I can barely remember yesterday. Mike was showing me photos – he looked so handsome in them, my baby Michael – and I was in the photos, so I must have been there but I don’t remember it at all.”

“Well there’s a lot of memories in there, you’ve done a lot of things…” Jack started.

“But I can’t remember,” Joey wailed. “I want to and I try so hard and I can’t remember anything after the triplets left school!”
Author:  aitchemelle [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 11:24 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Joey :(
Author:  Fatima [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 11:25 am ]
Post subject: 
How awfully frustrating for Jo and difficult to watch for Jack. I'm glad they have such wonderful children to lean on.
Author:  Smile :) [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 1:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Joey.

Interesting to see the family grown up.

Thanks fran.
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 6:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
How sad for her - it must be so frightening and frustrating for her. It's possible that the initial paralysis was due to shock and haemorrahage - as the shock wears off and blood is reabsorbed more function will return.


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 11:16 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Joey, I just can't imagine what it's like to lose 20 years of your life
Author:  Tara [ Thu Apr 05, 2007 11:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
It's just awful for her - and for the family, of course. The have lost part of her, but she's lost herself, which must be terrifying.
Jen was quite delightful, what a very sensible and charming girl.
Author:  brie [ Fri Apr 06, 2007 12:33 pm ]
Post subject: 
so sad...

thanks fran
Author:  Carolyn P [ Sat Apr 07, 2007 9:35 pm ]
Post subject: 
So lovely to see Jen trying so willingly and Jack so caring, and so, so Sad to see Joey struggling to remember and not being able to.
Author:  Jennie [ Sun Apr 08, 2007 8:05 am ]
Post subject: 
It is sad, but I did think that I'd quite like to lose twnty real years, not just years of memory.
Author:  francesn [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 9:17 am ]
Post subject: 
“Mummy, I’ve got a game for Granny.”

“I don’t know whether Granny will want to play games, darling,” Helena said worriedly, hating to disappoint her daughter but realising that she couldn’t shield Jen forever.

“But it’s such a fun game,” Jen pleaded. “And it might help her. Really, it would, truly.”

Helena looked into her daughter’s bright enthusiastic eyes and didn’t have the heart to disappoint her.

“Tell me a little bit about it and we’ll see,” she temporised.

“Okay, well, you know Granny can’t remember things, and people keep showing her photos to see whether that helps her remember well I thought maybe we could play a game with photos to help her remember,” Jen burst out enthusiastically. “We could have photos of all the Uncles and Aunts and cousins, and her friends and everyone and we could play ‘spot the photo’.”

“That’s a lovely idea…” Helena began uncertainly. “But I don’t know. Maybe we can talk to Daddy.”

Inwardly Helena was torn between trying to help her mother and not disappointing her daughter but she knew how disappointed and frustrated Joey would become if Jen’s idea failed. On the other hand if it could help her mother regain even some of her memories, if she could recognise her visitors and stop greeting the doctor who looked similar to Felix and the nurse who vaguely resembled Cecy as her own children then that could only be a good thing.

“Please, Mums,” Jen wheedled. “I only want to help.”

“I know that, darling, I do, but we need to talk to Daddy,” Helena said. “Remember how tired Granny was the other day when we went to visit….”

“She wasn’t tired,” Jen pointed out with childish innocence. “She was upset. I just want to make Granny better, Mums. Please let me help.”

“Oh Jen,” Helena sighed, bending a little to hug her daughter. “I promise I will talk to Daddy and see what he says. But if he says no then that’s final, do you understand?”

“Okay…” Jen reluctantly agreed.

“Promise?” Helen said sternly.

“Promise.”
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 3:34 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thank you. This is one of the drabbles I read regularly and am always glad to see an update.
Author:  brie [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 3:47 pm ]
Post subject: 
thaks fran.. this must be so hard for all the family, as well as for joey
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 5:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran - Jen is a treasure, isn't she?
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 12, 2007 11:19 pm ]
Post subject: 
Jen is so lovely. Poor Len she's trying so hard to protect her daughter and deal with her own grief for her mother
Author:  francesn [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 10:38 am ]
Post subject: 
“Sophie? Is everything alright?” Stephen asked as soon as his wife picked up the phone.

“But of course,” came the reply. “You worry too much, we are coping well. Camille has been but so naughty at school today however she understands that and she will not do it again.”

“What did she do?” Stephen shot back quickly. “Nothing serious I hope.”

“No, no, it was nothing. And we have talked about it, and she is forgiven and all is forgotten.”

“Very well,” Stephen said. “Is everything else okay? Is Luc teething – his cheeks were a little red when I left, and he seemed a bit fractious.”

“Indeed, he has 1 more tooth to show his Papa in a few days!” Sophie replied. Even down the phone Stephen could hear her proud smile.

“Listen Sophie, about that,” Stephen began uncertainly. “Mother’s really rather ill, and I just think I should stay. It’s not fair to leave Helena to cope by herself, I know she has Reg but Mike and Con will have to get back, and really once a replacements settled in from London he might as well stay.”

“She,” Sophie put in.

“Pardon?” Stephen said. “Sorry, darling I didn’t her that.”

“I said ‘she’,” Sophie repeated patiently. “Your replacement is a Madame Barbara Hewlett.”

“Good heavens! Really! Why she was at the Chalet….She’ll have no problems with them, none at all,” Stephen said in surprise. “Well that’s quite a weight off my mind. I’ll ring her and tell her I’m staying her for at least six weeks more.”

“I’m sure she will understand if, as you say, she was at the Chalet. She will know and treasure your mother,” Sophie said. “But if you are to stay for six weeks we will be coming to stay with you.”

“What? Sophie, that’s madness. You can’t do that! What about the children, they still need to go to school, don’t they?”

“They can go to school on the Platz. I’m sure they will be able to find room for them – the circumstances are so unusual…”

“You cant just uproot them like that!”

“You can’t go away for six weeks and leave them!” Sophie flashed back. “They miss you, Isabelle she asks me when you will come back and Camille she is being naughty because she misses her Papa!”

“Sophie – you need to stay exactly where you are!” Stephen said heatedly

“No! I will not. We are coming to see you and that is that.”

“But I don’t know where you’ll stay? How are you going to manage travelling across Europe with three young children? Sophie, this is madness.”

“Not madness at all, we will be with you in a few days. I shall tell you when our trains are and you will meet us at the station, yes?”

“Sophie I really don’t think…”

“No Stephen, you do not think. You do as you are told.”
Author:  Fatima [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:07 am ]
Post subject: 
francesn wrote:
“No Stephen, you do not think. You do as you are told.”


Good for Sophie!
Author:  Ruth B [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:23 am ]
Post subject: 
francesn wrote:
“No Stephen, you do not think. You do as you are told.”


:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:
Author:  Sarah_K [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:40 am ]
Post subject: 
:lol:

That told him! She's quite right though, I was slightly :shock: at the idea of 6 weeks rather than a couple of days.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Clare [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 11:50 am ]
Post subject: 
francesn wrote:
“No Stephen, you do not think. You do as you are told.”


Well, tis easy to see who wears the trousers in that relationship! Good for you Sophie!
Author:  Chelsea [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 3:01 pm ]
Post subject: 
Ruth B wrote:
francesn wrote:
“No Stephen, you do not think. You do as you are told.”


:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl: :rofl:


That is the best line ever!!
Author:  Lesley [ Fri Apr 13, 2007 5:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Well done Sophie! :lol:


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 12:02 am ]
Post subject: 
:rofl: :rofl: :rofl: Brilliant last line! Sometime you have to tell it like it is. And Sophie is absolutely right.
Author:  aitchemelle [ Sat Apr 14, 2007 1:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
Well done Sophie! :) Thank you Fran!
Author:  LauraM [ Tue Apr 17, 2007 6:34 pm ]
Post subject: 
Yay Sophie :lol:
Author:  Carolyn P [ Tue Apr 17, 2007 6:46 pm ]
Post subject: 
That was a great line, love it! :lol: A touch of relief there making it easier to read.
Author:  francesn [ Wed Apr 18, 2007 1:29 pm ]
Post subject: 
Whoever sent Fred and Ethel on holiday, it was very kind of you but please may I have them back now?

Phil clutched her handbag as she waited for her baggage. She wasn’t entirely sure how she was supposed to manage, Geoff had told her that on no account was she to try to lift her own baggage but she wasn’t about to ask anyone for help. She always had been fiercely independent, resenting the years she had spent recovering from polio as a child where she had been unable to do the things she wanted for herself. Everyone knew Phil had a stubborn streak, but few realised how deep it ran. Her mother was one, her twin another, and her husband was just finding out. Luckily for her Jonathon was an easygoing man and so there weren’t the arguments that there could have been if he was as strong-willed as she.

She looked around the busy station, trying to spot someone in uniform to approach to carry her bag for her. Unfortunately she couldn’t see anyone, and her heart sank as she recognised her bag on one of the approaching trolleys.

“Ohhhh…” she dithered as she stood by her bags, not quite daring to lift them. Her independent streak didn’t go as far as going against the medical advice of her brother.

“Excuse me,” she said timidly to the man who appeared at her elbow and appeared to be studying the baggage intently. “I don’t suppose you’d be able to retrieve my bag for me, would you?”

“Good heavens!” the man exclaimed. “It’s Phillipa Maynard, isn’t it?”

“Phillipa Sanderton now, actually. I’m sorry, but I don’t recognise you….you are?”

“Lionel Embury – our mothers were at school together in the Tyrol or something, and Angela was at the Chalet of course.”

Phillipa nodded her head, recognising the name if not the person. Lionel was considerably older than she and they had not had that much to do with the elder Embury children. She comforted herself with the thought that he didn’t look very distinctive anyway, even if she did with her masses of auburn hair, big grey eyes and determined pointed chin.

“So what brings you to Switzerland?” he asked as he hefted her bags down. “I assume you’re not living here anymore.”

“No, no I’m not,” Phillipa said. “My husband and I live just outside London. I’m back because my mother’s ill. She’s had a stroke.”

“I’m so sorry to hear that,” Lionel said, his voice filled with genuine sympathy.

“Thank you,” Phillipa said, her eyes filling with tears. “Sorry, I….”

“No, I understand. It must be a shock.”

“Well, yes but…..the shock, of course. I’m sorry.”

“It’s quite alright, look – is someone meeting you?” Lionel asked, concerned.

“Yes, Steve or Mike, or maybe Reg. I don’t know. But Helena will have sent someone,” Phil sniffed, wiping tears away from her eyes.

“Look here, I’ll wait with you, you shouldn’t be on your own, and besides my mother would never forgive me! She’ll be devastated to hear about your mother.” Lionel picked up both Phil’s bag and his own and set off towards the exit, Phil trailing behind feeling more than a little confused. Thankfully she was met by Stephen near the entrance and he relieved Lionel of her bags, said a few words to him and took Phil by the arm.

“How was the journey?” he asked. “You should have stopped over in Brussels, with Sophie. She would have come with you. I’m sure she would have appreciated a hand with the kids and it would have given you some practice, not that you need it – you have enough nieces and nephews without you wanting any of your own!”

“You know, then?” Phil asked warily yet thankful to be spared the ordeal of breaking the news.

“Reg said,” Stephen replied curtly. “Well he had to. We wondered why you weren’t flying, and then he said you weren’t to have any shocks, and Jonathan might need to come over before Mamma sees you, otherwise she’ll be in for a shock. She’s better than she was though. We’re doing everything we can and visiting her every day….”

Phil nodded, suddenly exhausted by the tide of information flowing over her. She hadn’t slept that well on the train, the constant motion had made her feel sick, and now she was faced with the drive up to the Platz followed by seeing her family again. It wasn’t that she didn’t love them, she just tended to find them slightly overbearing. Still she submitted to Stephen’s ministrations as he settled her into the car and began the long drive.
Author:  Sarah_K [ Wed Apr 18, 2007 4:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
An Embury! They don't turn up in drabbles very often.

I can imagine being one of the littlies in the Maynard family could feel very overwhelming, poor Phil even if Stephen is trying to be helpful :)
Author:  Cath V-P [ Wed Apr 18, 2007 11:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
That was a niced meting for Phil....yes UI can see that she might well feel overwhelmed by her family at times.
Author:  Loryat [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 4:08 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is lovely - though sad too of course. Still it's nice to see them all interact.

I felt a bit sorry for the wards though - is there any reason why Len didn't call them? Was there some kind of split?
Author:  brie [ Fri Apr 20, 2007 4:34 pm ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran
Author:  francesn [ Sat Apr 21, 2007 2:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
No interesting split - I just never felt that they were really accepted as family so probably went their own ways when they were old enough.

“Mary-Lou! I say, Mary-Lou, wait for me a sec.”

Cecy ran down the corridor of the university, not caring whether any of the undergraduates she taught in seminars saw the usually reserved Dr Maynard flinging all caution to the winds.

Mary-Lou turned her head for a moment and then stopped dead as she saw who was calling.

“Cecy, whatever’s the matter?” Mary-Lou asked concerned. It wasn’t often that she had occasion to come over the Classics department where Cecy was a post-doctoral research assistant but even when she did it was unlike Cecy to seek Mary-Lou out. Of course Mary-Lou had offered a helping hand when Cecy had first pitched up at university, whenever she was around at least, but Cecy hadn’t been that interested at first. A tentative friendship had sprung up between the two women, but it was all too often interrupted when Mary-Lou had to up sticks and head off to an archaeological dig. Still, Mary-Lou reasoned, it was one Chalet Girl to another and she owed Jo Maynard an awful lot.

“Can we meet up for lunch?” Cecy asked breathlessly.

“You chased me all the way down the corridor to ask me that?” Mary-Lou said sceptically, scanning Cecy’s face. “Is something wrong?”

“Well, yes, but can we talk about it over lunch? Please?” Cecy begged. “I have an undergraduate seminar to teach until 1 and a meeting with Professor Benson at 4 but I do need to talk to you.”

“Come over when you’re done teaching,” Mary-Lou said easily, understanding all too well the pressures upon female academics. She herself felt secure having finally gained a tenure three years ago.

Cecy nodded gratefully, then caught sight of a nearby clock and took to her heels with a yelp. Mary-Lou turned towards her own department and her office to wait for Cecy.

It was strange, the relationship between Mary-Lou and the Maynards. Sometimes she thought they almost resented her presence in the large, but tightly knit family circle. After all she still had relations unlike Erica, and they wanted her, unlike Claire, and were actually able to take care of her, not that she needed taking care of any more, unlike Adrienne. She didn’t have any formal ties to the family at all, more to the school and her odd friendship with Joey, but Joey always seemed to regard her as another daughter, and all the staff members at the school were more than happy to treat her as they would Jo whenever they couldn’t get hold of her. The ties to the school had faded with time but her friendship with Joey herself was still strong, although correspondence was sporadic these days. In fact, Mary-Lou reflected, she hadn’t really seen or heard from Jo since Phil’s wedding. Still, now was no time to be reflecting on such things and she turned her attention to a very interesting account of some remains in South America which might be Incan. By the time Cecy arrived she was in the middle of planning her trip.

“Where shall we go for lunch then?” Mary-Lou asked once they were clear of her office.

“I don’t mind,” Cecy replied. “Somewhere quiet. I have to talk to you.”

“Right-o,” Mary-Lou said cheerfully, inwardly wondering what trouble Cecy had gotten herself into. “I know just the place.”

They walked in silence to a little Italian restaurant not all that far away, but it was quiet, just as Mary-Lou had said.

“What’s eating you then?” Mary-Lou inquired as soon as they were settled and had ordered.

“It’s Mamma,” Cecy began haltingly. “I don’t know whether you’ve been writing to her, but she’s not very well.”

“Oh dear. I’m so sorry to hear that,” Mary-Lou said sympathetically. “Your mother and I haven’t really been corresponding regularly lately. I’ve been so busy...maybe I should have tried harder. Is she very ill?”

“Well, yes she is,” Cecy faltered. “She’s had a stroke, you see, it’s taken her memories away. Everything from the last twenty years…she knows nothing.”

“But….twenty years?” Mary-Lou repeated, trying to assimilate the information. “That would have been…but the trips were still at school, they must have been. Twenty years?”

Cecy nodded silently.

“Well that’s it,” Mary-Lou said decisively. “I’m going to have to fly out to the Platz. Len won’t be able to cope on her own, not with the children to see to.”

“No – look Mary-Lou, you can’t just go barging in! Helena has Reg, and Con’s out there, and Mike and Steve. Phil’s on her way. Just wait until we’ve all had a chance to see Mamma, and for some of us that won’t be for some time yet.”

“Oh don’t be ridiculous, Cecily,” Mary-Lou retorted. “Anyone with half an eye can see that I’m needed out there. There’s no way that Len’s going to be able to cope with everyone descending all at once, and someone needs to make sure that things are running smoothly.”

“Please don’t, Mary-Lou,” Cecy practically begged. “The others didn’t want me to tell you because they knew you’d react like this. We don’t need you, I just thought maybe you should know…” She stopped as she registered the look of hurt, of confusion on the older woman’s face. “I didn’t mean it like that…” she faltered.

“You think I’m going over there to interfere, don’t you? You think I just can’t resist butting in.”

Cecy looked away, ashamed.

“I’m not, you know. I’m only trying to help. If you don’t want me to go right away then I won’t – if she’s lost twenty years of memory she needs to get to know her own family first…..but Cecy, can you promise me one thing?”

“That depends….” Cecy responded cautiously.

“If she asks for me….you will tell me, won’t you?” Mary-Lou asked, suddenly vulnerable. “She’s the closest thing to a mother I have now.”

“Of course,” Cecy promised easily. “We’ll tell you.”
Author:  Lesley [ Sat Apr 21, 2007 3:12 pm ]
Post subject: 
Well she reacted exactly as they'd all feared there, didn't she? At least she did rein in and stop when Cecy asked her - and she was oddly vulnerable there at the end.


Thanks Fran.
Author:  MaryR [ Sat Apr 21, 2007 3:27 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Mary-Lou, not wanted when maybe she needed to be there as much as they did. And I'm afraid I never see her *butting in* as objectionable, unlike the Maynards. :cry:

Thanks, Frances
Author:  Fatima [ Sat Apr 21, 2007 3:46 pm ]
Post subject: 
It must have hurt, hearing 'we don't need you'. I actually feel sorry for her, even though I was annoyed when she said 'Len won’t be able to cope on her own' and 'someone needs to make sure that things are running smoothly'.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sun Apr 22, 2007 8:39 am ]
Post subject: 
That was rather sad - Mary-Lou reacted as they had feared she would, but then her own vulnerability become apparent.
Author:  brie [ Sun Apr 22, 2007 8:58 am ]
Post subject: 
thanks fran- it almost makes you feel sorry for Mary-lou there
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Apr 22, 2007 9:00 am ]
Post subject: 
Fatima wrote:
It must have hurt, hearing 'we don't need you'. I actually feel sorry for her, even though I was annoyed when she said 'Len won’t be able to cope on her own' and 'someone needs to make sure that things are running smoothly'.

Thanks Fran.


I do feel sorry for Mary Lou yes she does have a reputation for butting in, however it should be noted with Jessica and with Joan that people told her she should butt in and she made it clear to both Joey and Jack (the ones telling her) she didn't really want to and Joey especially made it very clear that she was the only one able to butt in. Her Mather dies and Verity falls in a heap and isn't much support so she can't fall in a heap and has to hold it together, so she just continues on the way of yes I'll cope and no one else seems able to. I think underneath someone who comes accross as a butter-in, she is actually very vulnerable but never allows it to show.

And thanks Fran too! :D
Author:  Loryat [ Mon Apr 23, 2007 11:17 am ]
Post subject: 
In fairness to Mary-Lou, you could read it that she was trying to save Len the stress of it all so that she could focus on Joey - just not articulating it very well.

Of course, you don't have to read it like that. :D

I liked your depiction of the female academics.
Author:  francesn [ Wed Apr 25, 2007 10:06 pm ]
Post subject: 
Jack sat, alone, in the salon at Freudesheim where he had shared so many happy evenings with Joey. It still seemed strange going to bed along at night, even when he had been working late in the San Joey had always been there, and she had always woken up when he came in, however briefly. He savoured memories of her creeping around in the morning trying not to wake him, of her walking up and down outside their room with a teething child, of her impatiently demanding to get out of bed after an illness well before she was ready to. Tears filled his eyes as he remembered the happiness they had shared together. It was strange, he thought. He’d always imagined that he would be the one to go first. Not this way round, anything but this.

Memories rolled over him, happy ones, sad ones, the difficult times they had come through together and he clung to that hope, the hope that meant they had always survived. He remembered the flight from Austria, the time he had spent serving with the armed forces in the War, the sickening worry he had felt when Joey had been so ill that it necessitated a trip to England for surgery, the time they thought they might lose their little Phillipa, all the times over the years when he thought he would never have survived without his wife and now he had to force himself to be realistic. Life would never go back to the way that it had been. There would always be some kind of lasting effect, the slur in her speech, maybe a limp, the holes in her memory…..
Author:  Clare [ Wed Apr 25, 2007 10:32 pm ]
Post subject: 
Aw. That's so lovely. *wibble* :cry:
Author:  Cath V-P [ Wed Apr 25, 2007 11:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
That was very poignant, Frances. Poor Jack, facing something he never envisaged and knowing that whatever happens, life has changed irrevocably.
Author:  Lesley [ Thu Apr 26, 2007 6:11 am ]
Post subject: 
(((((Jack)))))



Thanks Fran.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Thu Apr 26, 2007 9:32 am ]
Post subject: 
Poor Jack. It would be so hard for him
Author:  Lottie [ Thu Apr 26, 2007 2:14 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Jack. He probably knows too well what is likely to happen. This is really moving. Thanks, Fran.
Author:  Fatima [ Thu Apr 26, 2007 2:39 pm ]
Post subject: 
Poor Jack. How difficult it's going to be for him.
Author:  brie [ Thu Apr 26, 2007 4:02 pm ]
Post subject: 
poor jack

thanks fran

*wibbling quietly in the corner*
Author:  Josie [ Sat Apr 28, 2007 8:11 am ]
Post subject: 
:( THis is so sad.

Love Sophie though! :D

Thanks Fran
Author:  francesn [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 3:13 pm ]
Post subject: 
I’ve taken Joey’s ex-suitor to be Raymond Bettlesdon, as mentioned in 2 CS Girls in India


Back at the San Jack was making a couple of telephone calls to an old colleague of his who was researching the effects of stroke and had come up with a few experimental therapies that Jack hoped might help Jo to recover.

“Is that Raymond Bettlesdon? It’s Jack Maynard here.”

“Maynard? The TB specialist?”

“Yes – we worked at the Austrian San together, years ago, under Sir James Russell if you remember. Listen, I’m calling to ask about some of your latest research, into stroke?” Jack said.

“Ask away, my man, ask away,” Raymond replied jovially. “What is it you need to know?”

“It’s more of a personal query than a professional one really,” Jack began. “My wife’s had a stroke you see, but we don’t really specialise in that sort of thing here, and I don’t want to move her to somewhere that does, so I was wondering what we could do, and you’re the chap to ask about this sort of thing.”

“Sorry to hear that, old chap,” Dr Bettlesdon. “How is she?”

Jack took a deep breath. “It’s pretty bad. Right side hemiparesis, aphasia, severe memory problems…she has trouble processing and remembering new information, even information that isn’t technically new if you see what I mean. She seems depressed, over-cautious in a way. I just wanted to know if there was anything you could suggest….”

“I can do better than suggest, my dear chap, I’ll send a team out to you, in return for a small professional favour.”

“A team? Of what?” Jack asked, stunned.

“A physiotherapist, occupational therapist, one of our junior doctors and an experienced nurse. They’ll be at your disposal – as long as you don’t mind us making a brief study of your wife’s case, that is.”

Jack wavered, torn between the help that was being offered and the potential invasion of their privacy when Joey was so fragile, especially from a man she had until recently professed to hate. It was, he realised, impossible to refuse. The chance for Joey to receive care than the San otherwise had no way of offering.

“If it goes well we may open a unit near you,” Dr Bettlesdon was saying. “And having a team out there who are familiar with the area would be a great benefit to us. The Alpine air has marvellous effects, as I’m sure you know.”

“I don’t know what to say….” Jack stammered.

“Don’t say anything!” Dr Bettlesdon replied. “Just let me help.”
Author:  brie [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 3:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh. I'm not sure what to say... that is a twist in the tale!

Thanks Frances
Author:  LauraM [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 3:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Interesting........ :shock:

Cheers Frances
Author:  Fatima [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 4:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
But will Dr. Bettlesdon be part of that team? Hopefully not!

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 4:30 pm ]
Post subject: 
Also will Joey recognise him? If her memory has gone back 20 years she may have more memories of him than Jack would like.


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Mrs Redboots [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 5:28 pm ]
Post subject: 
This might be very interesting! Thank you, Frances.
Author:  Elder in Ontario [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 5:45 pm ]
Post subject: 
Interesting development indeed - and no, I don't think Dr Bettelson himself will be one of the team - he spoke of a junior doctor coming out, and he is clearly the 'head honcho' of his own unit. But this is certainly a unique way for Jack to get the treatment Joey so desperately needs without having to move her from the Platz.

Thank you, Frances
Author:  Cath V-P [ Sun Apr 29, 2007 11:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Fascinating! It would help Jo to receive that sort of intensive therapy, but hopefully there aren't any hidden snags.
Author:  Loryat [ Mon Apr 30, 2007 1:33 pm ]
Post subject: 
Maybe having someone she despises about the place will buck Joey up...though is he coming himself?

I love the sympathetic take on the Maynards, M-L etc in this.
Author:  francesn [ Mon Apr 30, 2007 6:29 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Hullo mother,” Mike said as he strode into the hospital room jauntily, determined to make the best of the last day he had with his mother.

“Michael,” Joey said with a smile. “How nice to see you!”

“How are you feeling today?” he asked as he sat down and took her hand.

“Much better,” she said cheerily. “They say I’ll be up and walking in a few weeks – you’ll be able to take me for walks around the hospital, and eye up all the nurses!”

“Mother!” Mike said, affecting affront, although he knew full well that Joey’s perceptive eye had noticed his growing attraction to Nurse Hendry, and that Nurse Hendry seemed to be spending an awful lot of time with his mother. “Besides, I’m going home tomorrow. They might give me time off for good behaviour in six months or so.”

“Are you?” Joey said, wrinkling her forehead. “I don’t remember you saying that.”

Mike suppressed a sigh. He found it difficult dealing with his mother being lucid one moment and forgetful the next.

“I have to go back to the army,” he said gently.

“You’re in the army?” Joey asked, surprised. “But we always thought you’d go into the Navy!”

“I know you did mother, but no-one has any use for Navy personnel who get seasick crossing the channel.”

“You never did as a child…” Joey said. “I remember the journey over to Canada – you absolutely loved that, and you never had any problem when we went boating on the Thun or the Tiernsee.”

“I know,” Michael said. “Strange, isn’t it? I think it was the idea of living on the ship all the time that worried me really. Still the army suits me very well.”

“Yes, yes I’m sure it does,” Joey said listlessly, all the animation suddenly going out of her.

“Buck up, Mamma,” Mike said brusquely. “I won’t be gone for very long. It’ll be just like when I was at school and I used to spend the Easter hols with pals or Aunt Madge, or Uncle Dick.”

“Seems like yesterday,” Joey said wistfully.

The unspoken thought hung there between them. It seemed like it, because it was.
Author:  brie [ Mon Apr 30, 2007 6:44 pm ]
Post subject: 
How sad, and this must be so hard for Mike having to leave Joey like this...

Thanks Fran
Author:  Sarah_K [ Mon Apr 30, 2007 9:09 pm ]
Post subject: 
It's so hard for both of them in different ways :( At least Joey's a bit more alert now though.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Josie [ Mon Apr 30, 2007 9:11 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh that's sad. :( Poor Joey.

Quote:
Also will Joey recognise him? If her memory has gone back 20 years she may have more memories of him than Jack would like.

I was wondering that too. Not sure Joey would react too favourably to seeing him, somehow!!

Thanks fran. :)
Author:  Cath V-P [ Tue May 01, 2007 12:21 am ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
“Seems like yesterday,” Joey said wistfully.

The unspoken thought hung there between them. It seemed like it, because it was.


That really says it all... :cry: :cry:
Author:  Smile :) [ Tue May 01, 2007 10:17 am ]
Post subject: 
It must be so hard for them all.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  KathrynW [ Thu May 03, 2007 7:54 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran, this is so moving
Author:  Lesley [ Tue May 08, 2007 10:19 pm ]
Post subject: 
How sad for them both. :cry:

Though being sea-sick doesn't stop people being sailors - Admiral Lord Nelson was as sick as a dog everytime he went on board! :lol:


Thanks Fran.
Author:  wheelchairprincess [ Tue May 08, 2007 11:07 pm ]
Post subject: 
Parts of this bring back memories of when my Gran had her strokes. And it makes me grateful that she wasn't as badly affected as Joey seems to be. With my Gran I can remember her being at home sometime afterwards trying to talk to one of us and forgetting the name (I can't remember who it was now) and get frustrated and just laughing and giving up going "you on the floor" It's nice to have those memories brought back. Thank you for writing this Fran.

And as for being seasick... they say you aren't a proper sailor till you've puked your guts up on a boat.
Author:  La Petite Em [ Sat May 12, 2007 2:25 pm ]
Post subject: 
I just read all of this in one go and it's amazingly moving. I feel so much for all of them!
Thank-you!
Author:  francesn [ Sun May 27, 2007 10:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Hullo Geoff,” Mags Jacobs said, surprised. “Have you come to see Felix?”

“I have indeed,” Geoff replied. “You too, of course.”

Mags blushed a little. “I’m really sorry but he’s not here,” she apologised. “He’s gone to America to share some research and theories with some of our colleagues.”

“Oh,” Geoff said, suddenly deflated and feeling more than a little resentful. “Well I suppose I should go home then. When he comes back can you tell him I’ve gone to Switzerland as well if he wants to come out there at all, and we’ll keep him posted.”

“You don’t have to go, you know,” Mags said shyly. “I mean, with Felix gone there’s not much I can do….apart from paperwork.”

“Well I could always rescue you from the paperwork. How about lunch?” Geoff suggested shyly. “In fact,” he went on a little more boldly, “how do you fancy a trip to Switzerland?”

Mags coloured. “Oh I couldn’t,” she cried. “Not with your mother ill, you need to spend time with your family, I’ll be in the way! And there’s so many of you – I’d feel so lost…”

“Oh come on,” Geoff coaxed, warming to his spontaneous idea. “I don’t really want to go out their on my own, and you’ve met some of us already. Cecy and Phil, f’rinstance, and you’ve met Charles, although he might not be there. I don’t know. Just, please come?”

“Well…”

“Think about it. Maybe over that lunch? I’m buying,” Geoff said, warming to his theme.

Mags thought for a moment, and then nodded. “I still haven’t decided, you know,” she warned.

“I know,” Geoff said, trying to keep his voice steady although his heart was suddenly beating twice as fast.
Author:  Lesley [ Sun May 27, 2007 10:36 pm ]
Post subject: 
Get in there Geoff - strike while the iron is hot! :wink:


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Miranda [ Mon May 28, 2007 6:01 am ]
Post subject: 
Quote:
“Well I could always rescue you from the paperwork. How about lunch?” Geoff suggested shyly. “In fact,” he went on a little more boldly, “how do you fancy a trip to Switzerland?”


Yes please!! :lol:

That must have been a bit of a shock for poor Mags!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Mon May 28, 2007 9:08 am ]
Post subject: 
Miranda wrote:
Quote:
“Well I could always rescue you from the paperwork. How about lunch?” Geoff suggested shyly. “In fact,” he went on a little more boldly, “how do you fancy a trip to Switzerland?”


Yes please!! :lol:

That must have been a bit of a shock for poor Mags!


I'll say!!! Thanks for the update
Author:  brie [ Mon May 28, 2007 9:17 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran
Author:  Sal [ Mon May 28, 2007 1:55 pm ]
Post subject: 
Well done Geoff! Thanks Fran
Author:  La Petite Em [ Tue May 29, 2007 7:34 pm ]
Post subject: 
Nice to see some more of this, I do love it.
Thanks Fran!
Author:  Emma A [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 1:41 pm ]
Post subject: 
Any chance of more of this, Frances? It's fantastic. really moving and hopeful, too. I like the way that the children have turned out.
Author:  claire [ Fri Apr 18, 2008 8:29 pm ]
Post subject: 
I was sensing a romance for Geoff on the horizon, but a trip to Switzerland as a first date (even with the circumstances), that boy's a fast worker
Author:  francesn [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 1:18 am ]
Post subject: 
Well this is far more fascinating than my dissertation - I have written 7,000 words of this in one evening so there's more to come if people would like. And I actually feel better for it so a huge thank you to Emma A for prompting me to write some more :lol:

Helena frowned as she looked at the list of rooms in Freudesheim. What had once seemed like a terrifyingly large house was now really rather small. Of course part of it had been converted into a self-contained flat, and most of it wasn’t in use nowadays – it was simply too impractical for Anna to keep in shape. Besides, Anna was only a few years younger than Joey even if she looked older than Jo’s youthful 58. There wasn’t really anyone to help ]her out either, not since Rosli left.

“Stephen’s family are in the flat,” Helena noted, “and Father’s still using his suite. Phil’s in the green room, Connie’s in the yellow room, Mike’s in the south room but he’s going so Geoff can have that. And then Geoff’s bringing a friend…I don’t quite know where to put her, maybe she can have the green room and I’ll move Phil. Goodness knows how Mamma managed to fit everyone in! I suppose she had the third floor though…and the attic….”

Helena’s musings were interrupted by the front door opening and her children, accompanied by Reg, piling in.

“Afternoon, darling,” Reg said, dropping a kiss on her head. “How’s the list?”

“A nightmare,” Helena said frankly. “And Felicity’s coming too, so I have to work out where to put her. And Charles and Ellie mentioned that they might be coming with their two, so I have to find 2 adjoining rooms to put them in. It’s not that we don’t have the rooms – there just aren’t enough beds!”

“Do you want me to go rooting round in the attics, see what I can dig up?” Reg offered. “I’ll get Steve to help me – stop him going soft from his desk job.”

“Would you?” Helena smiled gratefully. “Tomorrow? It’s Mike’s last evening tonight.”

“Not a problem,” Reg replied. “Speaking of Steve I saw him headed down to the station – Sophie’s arriving in a few hours.”

“Really?” Helena asked, looking panicked. “But the flat’s nowhere near ready yet – and I meant to move a load of baby stuff over there for her! Who’s with Mamma?”

“Your father,” Reg replied. “You make a list of what you want, I’ll ring Connie and Mike and tell them to start cleaning. We’ll have this sorted – they’ll be hours yet.”

Helena stood up and wrapped her arms around her husband.

“You’re such a solid lump of comfort,” she sighed. “I honestly don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Life would be very different,” he said, stroking her hair. “Every morning I thank God for the fifteen years we’ve had together, and hope that we have at least 50 more to come.”
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 6:28 am ]
Post subject: 
AWWWWW - looking forward to the next 6000 or so...


Thanks Fran
Author:  Alison H [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 7:29 am ]
Post subject: 
Writing 7,000 words in one evening is truly impressive!
Author:  di [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 10:07 am ]
Post subject: 
Have just read this from the beginning and am thoroughly enjoying it. I do hope there is more to come, Francesn. Hope the dissertation is going well. How gald am I that those days are well and truly over! :lol:
Author:  Elbee [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 10:23 am ]
Post subject: 
I'm glad you've come back to this, looking forward to more!

Thanks Fran.
Author:  JoW [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 11:22 am ]
Post subject: 
I'm really enjoying this and looking forward to more.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 1:12 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for coming back to this Francesn - can quite understand it being more compelling than a dissertation :lol:
Author:  Rosalin [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 1:44 pm ]
Post subject: 
Great to see some more of this, and I'm very impressed by the 7000 words in one evening.

Glad Helena has Reg to support her, they are a lovely couple.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  Karoline [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 3:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
Good to see this back, thanks Fran
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 8:33 pm ]
Post subject: 
Wonderful to see this back. Thanks
Author:  janetbrown23 [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 8:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've just found this and read the lot in one sitting. Thank you so much for coming back to this just when I have finally managed to get back online. It's absosulety fantastic to hear about all the family though sad for them all too. You have written a wonderful story here, Thank you

Jan
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Apr 20, 2008 9:16 pm ]
Post subject: 
Good to see this again. I had to start at the begining and enjoyed it all.
Author:  francesn [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 12:33 am ]
Post subject: 
Despite Connie’s strongest insistences, Phil accompanied her sister over to the flat. Connie did the heavy work, but Phil pronounced herself perfectly capable of dusting and wiping down surfaces.

“After all,” she reasoned. “If I was at home I’d be doing all my own housework, and cooking, and laundry. Here I’m waited on hand and foot and it just gets boring.”

Phil could be both stubborn and persuasive, so Connie relented and handed her sister a duster. The two women chattered easily as they prepared the three bedroom flat for its inhabitants.

“I hope Sophie doesn’t think we’re ostracising her,” Phil said suddenly.

“Why on earth should she think that?” Connie asked, looking up from the floor she was scrubbing.

“Well we’re shoving her out the way into this flat when they could just as easily have lived in the house,” Phil started. “And they’ll be here for a while from what Steve was saying. Maybe permanently if Mamma doesn’t improve. He doesn’t want to leave Helena to cope on her own.”

A frown creased Connie’s forehead. “He hasn’t said anything to me…and his job?”

“Mmm…” was Phil’s reply as she turned her attention to the table. “I love it out here, don’t you? I mean I can’t blame Steve for wanting to live here.”

“But he can’t,” Connie said practically. “He has a job in Brussels, and they have a flat. And Sophie would have a fit.”

“This is where we grew up though, it’s home,” Phil protested.

“Not for us it isn’t,” Connie pointed out. “Anyway I wouldn’t want to move back here, or to Carnbach, or to Plas Gwyn. I’m quite definitely a city person.”

Phil sighed. “Well I grew up here and it’s home. But I can’t see Jon wanting to move here!”

“Would you seriously want to move here? There’s nothing except the San and the school, and in the summer it’s chock full of tourists,” Connie pointed out.

“Believe it or not, I would,” Phil said. “Besides Fliss still lives here technically.”

“Felicity lives in swanky international hotels,” Connie said. “We’re all spread out across the globe now…”

“It’s a shame it’s taken this to bring us all back here,” Phil mused. “I mean the last time most of us saw each other was at my wedding, and that was a year ago. Even then some of you didn’t make it.”

“Well Margot was, and still is, somewhere in South America. Helena spoke to her the other day, over an incredibly bad line, but she’s all tied up doing something. She promised to write though, and Helena has her address so she’s sending her a letter explaining everything, rather than direct it to her order who would probably make sure she never gets it,” Connie said in defence of her triplet.

“Oh I know,” Phil said hastily. “Not that I mind. We only wanted a really small family wedding, which is a bit impossible with our family. And it was a rush. I’m glad so many of you could make it, although it did feel strange having you, Cecy and Fliss as my bridesmaids! Not that I would have had anyone else!”

“Well I’ll never get married now,” Connie laughed. “You were the third time I was a bridesmaid so I’m doomed never to be a bride! Anyway –we mustn’t waste time chattering. Reg’s coming over with a carload of things from Helena so this place had better be tidy enough to put them in.”

Duly reminded Phil earnestly set to work, removing the dust and grime from the surfaces and walls while Connie scrubbed the floor and skirting boards.

“Which curtains shall we put in the windows?” Phil asked presently. “Or do you think we should let Sophie decide?”

“Oh hang them I should think,” Connie said. “The last thing Sophie will want to do after her journey is hang curtains. Helena suggested the pink for the girl’s room, yellow for Stephen and Sophie, red and white check for downstairs and the blue in the sitting room.”

“I’m inclined to agree,” Phil responded. “I’ll make a start, shall I?”

“No standing on chairs,” Connie stipulated. “And for goodness sake, be careful.”
Author:  Miss Di [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 3:58 am ]
Post subject: 
Cool first to see the new post.

I'm so glad you came back to this story Fancesn as it led to me finding it. And have in fact just read all 11 pages in one sitting. It's so very moving and real.
Author:  Lesley [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:21 am ]
Post subject: 
I like Phil in this - thanks Fran.
Author:  di [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:52 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, Fran
Author:  Emma A [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 12:04 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hurrah! Thanks, Fran. This is excellent, so glad there's more to come...
Author:  crystaltips [ Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:14 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks, Fran, this is great. So glad that you came back to it.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue Apr 22, 2008 9:44 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran - lots to think about here - liking Phil and Con together too :D
Author:  francesn [ Tue Apr 22, 2008 10:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Stephen arrived back at Freudesheim with his family just as Connie and Phil finished putting the finishing touches on the flat. The surfaces sparkled and everything looked fresh and bright. Mike had been sent to the shop at Ste Cecilie with a very strict list so the cupboards were stocked with food.

“It looks so homely,” Sophie said warmly as soon as she stepped. “Thank you!”

Connie and Phil exchanged relieved glances. The truth be told they were a little wary of Sophie and had been nervous about her reaction.

“You’re more than welcome to come over to the main part of the house – that door there links you to us, but we thought it would be better for the children if you were over here. They might be unsettled by all the comings and goings,” Connie explained.

“How thoughtful of you!” Sophie exclaimed. “Isabelle, Camille – say hello to your aunts.”

Camille advanced willingly for kisses and cuddles but Isabelle stayed firmly stuck to her mother’s leg.

“You must excuse her,” Sophie apologised. “She is very tired and a little shy.”

“That’s quite alright,” Phil said hastily. “Is this Luc? Hello, poppet! Goodness me, he’s big.”

Stephen beamed he advanced, holding his son. “Smile for your Auntie Phil, Luc.”
Luc’s response was to screw up his face and scream.

“He doesn’t like strangers,” Camille informed Phil. “He’s never met you before. He was so funny with the customs man. Why aren’t you wearing your pretty dress, Auntie Phil?”

“Camille,” Sophie warned. “I’m so sorry – I should get these children to bed.”

“Must I go to bed, Maman?” Camille pleaded. “Can’t I go and see everyone else?”

“It’s only 17:00 – and it would be a shame if she didn’t see her Uncle Mike,” Stephen pointed out. “You get these two to bed and then come over to join us.”

“Please, Maman?” Camille pleaded. “I’m so hungry too.”

Sophie looked hassled so Phil jumped in.

“I can fix Camille some soup and toast,” she offered, “over in the main part of the house. Then she can see everyone and once she’s had it, I’ll bring her back here for bed. Dinner won’t be until 19.30 or so if you wanted to join us. It’s fine if you’re too tired.”

“Would you?” Sophie said thankfully. “Stephen, ma chere, can you run a bath? We should be ready for dinner but please do not wait for us, Phil, and if she is naughty send her straight back here to bed.”

“I’m sure we’ll be fine,” Phil smiled. “Come on, Camille.”

“Do you need any help, Sophie?” Connie asked. “Or shall we leave you to it?”

“Thank you but we’ll be fine,” Sophie replied. “I’m used to doing this on my own.”

Connie smiled tightly and left.

“Stephen? The bath?” Sophie said, holding out her arms for Luc. “I must go and see the bedrooms.”

“I’m sure Helena will have sorted everything for you,” Stephen said placidly, holding onto his son. “I’ll run the bath and then put Luc to bed while you sort Isabelle out. Don’t worry about unpacking – just get what you need and we’ll do it in the morning.”

“Nonono,” Sophie cried. “I need to be settled tonight.”

“Sophie, you’ve had a long day. Don’t worry about it, everything’s going to fine.”

“Please Stephen. The bath.”

Stephen took Isabelle by the hand saying, “Come on, cherie, let’s go and run that bath.” He looked over his shoulder at Sophie. “If you want to unpack, I’ll sort these two. We have a lot of catching up to do!”

Isabelle smiled at her father as they headed upstairs, and Sophie allowed herself to relax a little before she caught sight of the baggage at her feet. Her eyes filled with tears as she wondered how on earth she was going to cope.

She did not allow herself to despair for long and applied herself to unpacking the suitcases. The flat was spacious and there was plenty of storage so the children’s clothes were soon away. Sophie had just finished hanging her own dresses in the wardrobe of the larger bedroom when the door opened.

“Can I help?” Stephen said, popping his head around the door. “Luc’s in bed, and Isabelle’s reading herself a story. I promise you’d go in to see her before bed.”

“Thank you, darling,” Sophie smiled, turning to her husband. “I have missed you so much.”

“I’ve missed you too, sweetheart,” Stephen replied tenderly entering the room and gathering his wife into his arms. “I’m so glad you came.”

“And to think you tried to stop me,” Sophie whispered into his shoulder.

“I didn’t want you travelling across Europe with our three demons,” Stephen defended himself. “And I couldn’t leave here to come back. I felt so guilty.”

“Is it very bad?” Sophie asked.

Stephen had no need to ask what ‘it’ was. They both knew she meant his mother’s condition.

He loosened his hold on her and looked into her eyes.

“She isn’t well,” he said shakily. “It’s awful, seeing her like this, I never imagined, not in my worst nightmares that someone as…as vibrant as she was could end up this way.”

“Oh darling,” Sophie breathed, pulling Stephen towards her. “You should have said something.”

“I didn’t want to worry you,” Stephen defended himself a little lamely.

“And you thought I would not worry by myself?” Sophie asked, gently. “You men, you are all the same, you try to carry burdens by yourself when you do not need to. I am your wife, you should tell me these things.”

“I know, I know,” Stephen groaned. “But I have to keep a stiff upper lip and all that. No use falling to bits in front of my sisters, and I can’t talk to Mike.”

“But surely I am different?” Sophie reasoned, pulling back slightly to look up at him. “You do not need to protect me. You can always talk to me.”

Stephens shrugged. “It’s hard,” he said eventually, dropping a kiss on her forehead. “If it was your mother you’d be the same, I’m sure. It’s not that I don’t love you or want to talk to you, but they’re my family. They understand.”

“And I do not?” Sophie asked, pulling away and placing her hands on her hips. “I do not understand, is that it?”

“No, not at all!”

The response was a beat too late and it hung in the air between them.

“I must go and see Isabelle,” Sophie said eventually. “Go over to dinner and I shall join you in a moment.”
Author:  Miss Di [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 3:30 am ]
Post subject: 
What is Sophie's thing with the bath? We already know she's a control freak - does she have phobias as well?
Author:  di [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:40 am ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear, I think Steven is in a leetle trouble here! Sophie sounds as if she could be a difficult person to get to know.
Thanks Fran
Author:  Lesley [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 6:26 am ]
Post subject: 
She sounds like a perfectionist really, and although she does want to support Stephen I wonder if she will actually be able to do it?


Thanks Fran.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 8:44 am ]
Post subject: 
THanks Fran. It was lovely to have two posts to read. Love the interaction between Con and Phil :D
Author:  Rosalin [ Wed Apr 23, 2008 10:37 pm ]
Post subject: 
Oh dear, sounds like Sophie might have some problems fitting in.

Thanks Fran.
Author:  abbeybufo [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 8:14 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Fran - definitely some tensions here :shock:
Author:  crystaltips [ Thu Apr 24, 2008 8:17 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hmmm vair interesting. I wonder how Sophie will interact with the rest of the family.
Author:  Phil [ Fri Apr 25, 2008 7:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Just read all of through in one go.

Thanks, this is very moving.
Author:  Jenefer [ Sun Apr 27, 2008 9:35 am ]
Post subject: 
Have just caught up with this, very moving
Thanks
Author:  crystaltips [ Tue May 20, 2008 2:37 pm ]
Post subject: 
*begins chant for more*

*sends pb treats to help inspiration, if necessary*
Author:  La Petite Em [ Thu May 22, 2008 7:50 pm ]
Post subject: 
Pleeease, a little more please?
Author:  Abi [ Fri May 23, 2008 2:27 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've just read the whole of this (in two sittings!); it's so sad but completely absorbing. Hoping to see more soon.
Author:  francesn [ Tue May 27, 2008 12:44 am ]
Post subject: 
Mike’s last evening at home passed off smoothly and the next morning saw the daily relay to the station, on this occasion undertaken by Connie who said she had some shopping to get done and didn’t mind waiting. Felicity, Geoff and Mags, who had somehow been convinced to join the family in Switzerland, were arriving in the afternoon, Felicity by train and Geoff and Mags by aeroplane. She paused by a magazine rack to pick up a copy of her magazine, which had come out the previous day.

Finding a coffee shop she sat down with a pen and her notebook and ordered a cup of coffee. She scoured the magazine from cover to cover, making copious notes and resigned herself to a very long telephone call this evening. She felt torn between her duty to the family and the things she felt she needed to do back in London. She worried that her readers would pick up on all the mistakes she’d picked up on. She worried it would affect sales, she worried the magazine would fail.

“Don’t be silly,” she said to the air, shaking her head. “One month won’t matter – as long as I’m back to do the next edition.”

She frowned. She hoped that she would be back for the next edition but she couldn’t justify leaving Helena to cope with everything. Some of her siblings were worse than useless when it came to practicalities, and some of them didn’t seem to care. Perhaps that was unfair – she knew Charles couldn’t just up and leave the school, and Margot had her own commitments. But she hadn’t heard a word from Cecy, other than that Phil had said she sent her love, and Felix seemed to have gone to America!

The clock chimed, startling her out of her reverie and she picked up her bag, hurrying to the counter to pay. She had only a quarter of an hour before she was due at the station to meet Felicity and it was a good five minute walk from where she was.

She wove her way through the busy streets, clutching her bag to her, reaching the station with seconds to spare, only to find that Felicity’s train was delayed. Swearing under her breath she checked her watch. The half hour delay meant cutting it fine to get out to the airport to collect Geoff and his friend. She paced the station impatiently, cursing the train driver, the rail companies, anyone even remotely connected to the railways that might be causing these precious minutes to slip by.

At last the train arrived and she scanned the crowds eagerly for Felicity, at last spotting her, charming a porter into lifting her bags down and piling them onto a trolley for her.

“So sorry we’re late,” Felicity said airily by way of greeting.

“Don’t put on airs with me, Flixy,” Connie said grimly. “We need to step on it if we’re going to get to the airport in time. I’ll fill you in on the way.”

They hurried through the station, Connie pushing the trolley determinedly and Felicity hurrying to keep up. Connie glanced at a clock as they passed underneath and swore vehemently.

“Language!” Felicity reproached. “Auntie Hilda would not be impressed!”

“It’s a good thing Auntie Hilda isn’t here to hear me then, isn’t it?” Connie replied. “Car’s over there.”

They reached the car just as the uniformed parking attendant working his way along the road reached the car in front. Felicity gave him a flirtatious smile before turning to her bags. Somehow they managed to load all Felicity’s luggage into the back of the car, without getting a ticket, and set off for the airport.

“Good trip?” Connie asked conversationally, negotiating the busy traffic skilfully.

“Seems to have been,” Felicity replied a little nervously. “Connie, look out! That car!”

“What? Oh he was miles away Flixy, don’t be such a wimp.”

“I’m not a wimp! Just because I don’t drive like a maniac! You’re worse than Mamma when she gets behind the wheel.”

“Well she won’t be doing that any time soon,” Connie said bitterly.

“Um, how is she?” Felicity asked tentatively.

“Not good,” Connie sighed. “Look, I don’t really know what to say. Helena’s better at this kind of thing. I’ll let her do it.”

“Connie! You have to tell me! All I know is what Helena told me when I called her, and that was ages ago now,” Felicity said indignantly.

“You mean you haven’t been in touch since then? Well a few more hours won’t hurt.” Connie flung back.

“Oh! That’s not fair,” Felicity cried. “I have been in touch, just Helena wouldn’t tell me anything. Oh DO look out, Con .You’ll get us killed at this rate.”

Connie ignored her sister and concentrated on weaving her way through the rush hour traffic, eventually arriving at the airport just as the plane from London was landing. She tore through the crowd to stand by the arrivals gate and bobbed up and down looking for Geoff’s tell-tale shock of red hair. Eventually she spotted him and pushed her way through the crowd.

“Geoff!”

“Connie!” Geoff turned to the tall, slim young woman beside him. “Connie, this is Mags. Mags this is Connie, my second eldest sister.”

“Lovely to meet you,” Mags said, extending her hand to Connie.

Connie shook it as she eyed the newcomer with an appraising eye. “I like your shoes,” she said eventually.

Mags relaxed and giggled. “I thought you were going to say something dreadful about me!”

“I wouldn’t be so rude!” Connie said shocked. “I wouldn’t have said anything. I’m not quite that tactless.”

“In other words, she isn’t Geoff,” Felicity put in. “I’m Felicity, nice to meet you.”

Mags’s eyes widened. “Geoff you didn’t say you were related to Felicity Maynard!” she cried. “I went to your concert at St John’s Smith Square and I adored it! I’ve wanted to hear you play again ever since.”

Felicity blushed and Geoff grinned. “You knew I had a sister called Felicity,” he pointed out. “I just assumed you’d put two and two together. You know for a nuclear physicist you can be remarkably dim sometimes. Anyway, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to hear Fliss – she’ll drive us bats with practising.”

Mags stuck her tongue out, but put it away hastily as she saw the look which passed between Connie and Felicity.

“You don’t look like a nuclear physicist,” Connie remarked. “I was expecting someone….I don’t know…”

“Fatter? Plainer? Older?” Mags suggested.

“Different,” Connie said firmly. “Come on, everyone, we’ve got a long way to go.”
Author:  Miss Di [ Tue May 27, 2008 3:50 am ]
Post subject: 
Hmmm "I like your shoes" seems a bit like "but nothing else about you...". But then again, Connie was a tactless girl whatever she may be now!
Author:  di [ Tue May 27, 2008 7:30 am ]
Post subject: 
I know Connie had a reputation for being tactless but surely she hasn't taken a dislike to Mags so early in the visit. It will be interesting to see how all these unknowns get on with each other, We already have had a glimpse of Sophie - mmmmh.
Thank you for the much welcome update. francesn.
Author:  PaulineS [ Tue May 27, 2008 11:18 am ]
Post subject: 
Gon's comment on the shoes ties in with her being a magazine editor. A comment about a fashion item is in keeping with her suprise at a diiferent picture of a nuclear scientist, when her views are based on Geoff!
Author:  abbeybufo [ Tue May 27, 2008 7:51 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks francesn, good to see this again :D
Author:  La Petite Em [ Tue May 27, 2008 9:52 pm ]
Post subject: 
Yay, more drabble! Thanks Frances- I love seeing how different all of the Maynards are now.
Author:  Lesley [ Wed May 28, 2008 6:26 am ]
Post subject: 
Good to see more of this and to see how the Maynards have turned out. Con as a maniac driver? Like it!


Thanks Fran.
Author:  crystaltips [ Wed May 28, 2008 5:12 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks Francesn, lovely update
Author:  Sarah J [ Wed May 28, 2008 5:19 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is great - just read it all through from the beginning. Enjoyed reading how all the Maynards have turned out.
Author:  Luisa [ Wed May 28, 2008 8:43 pm ]
Post subject: 
Nice to see this back.
why do people always think physicists aren't normal? I'm married to one (oops - is that a definition of normality?)
Author:  Abi [ Thu May 29, 2008 2:39 pm ]
Post subject: 
:lol: at Con's driving!

I KNOW physicists aren't normal - my sister's one!
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Fri May 30, 2008 11:48 am ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the update.
Len still doesn't seem to have gotton over the whole protecting the younger siblings bit if she's not giving Felicity a fuller picture when she calls.
Love the reaction of Mags when she realises Geoff was related to someone famous and I do feel sorry for all the new partners to be meeting the family with Joey so ill. It would so hard for them all
Author:  francesn [ Sat May 31, 2008 10:42 pm ]
Post subject: 
“Just to bring everyone up to speed,” Helena began. “I’ve heard from Margot. She says she would love to be here with us, and is with us in spirit but she knows her duty lies elsewhere. She is praying for us,” she finished bitterly.

“Amen,” Felicity said irreverently.

“Flixy,” Connie hissed. “Look here everyone, it’s good that we’re here, and it means a lot to Mamma and Papa, but we all need to be exactly clear on what’s going on, okay?”

Everyone nodded and made vague noises of assent.

Connie looked around before continuing. “Now I was talking to Papa earlier, and a colleague of his is sending some specialists from America to help Mamma. We mustn’t get our hopes up, it will be a long haul, but there is hope.”

“What sort of specialists?” Geoff asked interestedly.

“Some kind of therapist, a doctor and a nurse. I don’t really know,” Connie said dismissively. “I’m sure you can talk to them and pick their brains. Carrying on – this means we get less time with Mamma, so we’re going to have to reorganise that rota, as well as fitting our newcomers onto it. This…this probably isn’t going to be a problem because I’m going to have to go back.”

“Go back!” Helena cried. “But you haven’t been here that long.”

“I’ll have to talk to you later,” Connie said calmly. “But I can’t stay for much longer. You’re going to need the space anyway.”

“Why?” Phil asked abruptly.

“I was just coming to that. I heard from Cecy today, she’s flying out next week for the whole vacation.”

“Have you heard from Felix yet?” Felicity interjected.

“Should I have?” Connie retaliated. “He isn’t my twin afterall!”

There was an awkward silence as Felicity refused to meet Connie’s eye.

Geoff cleared his throat.

“When will I be able to see Mamma?” he asked.

Helena lifted her head. “Come with me tomorrow,” she said. “But you’ll have to prepare yourself for a shock. She’s better than she was but she still isn’t well at all.”

“I understand,” Geoff assured her. “I wouldn’t be much use as a doctor if I didn’t.”

“Why does Geoff get to see Mamma but I still haven’t been allowed to?!” Phil asked angrily. “He’s only just got here, and I’ve been here for ages!”

“There are…reasons,” Helena said eventually.

“Oh come ON!” Phil cried. “I know she doesn’t remember that I’m married, I know she’d be shocked if she found out I was expecting a baby, but I don’t show, do I? She isn’t going to know unless anyone tells her.”

Phil glared at the assembly, daring any of them to disagree with her. She was met with stunned silence and Connie’s steady gaze.

“Well?” Phil demanded. “Someone say something, please!”

“It’s not so much Mamma,” Helena started.

“What? You mean it’s me? You won’t let me go and see Mamma because you’re scared that I’ll get upset and that’ll hurt the baby! That is it, isn’t it? Well I’ve got news for you all – being kept cooped up in here isn’t doing any good at all. I’m going nuts worrying about Mamma and I’m sure everyone’s going to agree that I’m not to be worried,” Phil finished triumphantly.

“That is partly it,” Connie admitted. “Look let’s not argue – it doesn’t do anyone any good.”

“Says she,” Felicity said under her breath.
Author:  Lesley [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 7:42 am ]
Post subject: 
Why are they treating Phil like a child?????


Thanks Fran.
Author:  di [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 8:32 am ]
Post subject: 
When did Con get to be so nasty? She's being really horrible to Felicity and not so very up front herself. Seems like she's taken on Margot's old mantle! I'm feeling really sorry for the younger Maynard girls. :(
Thanks, Fran.
Author:  Fiona Mc [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 1:16 pm ]
Post subject: 
I'm wondering what's going on there that's causing Len and Con not to talk about it. They really need to deal with it.
Author:  Elle [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 4:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Gosh. I have just read this right through. What is going on with those Maynards? And Sophie... I am finding her rather... odd.
Author:  claire [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 5:53 pm ]
Post subject: 
She hasn't blanked back to when Phil was so ill and come up with the theory that Phil's dead and they don't want to correct her has she?
Author:  Celia [ Sun Jun 01, 2008 9:24 pm ]
Post subject: 
I've just read this right through, and have really enjoyed seeing how the
Maynard children have changed now they are grown-up.

Poor Joey, I hope the American medical team can help her.

Thanks Francesn, I'm looking forward to the next post. :D
Author:  Emma A [ Mon Jun 02, 2008 6:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Thanks for the updates, Frances - really glad to see this continued. Have to agree - why is Connie so unpleasant? I guess she's worried, both about Joey and her magazine, but Phil doesn't deserve evasions and half-truths.

Looking forward to more (hint, hint)
Author:  La Petite Em [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:55 am ]
Post subject: 
claire wrote:
She hasn't blanked back to when Phil was so ill and come up with the theory that Phil's dead and they don't want to correct her has she?


Oh my god, that would be horrible!! All the Maynards need to cooperate a little more methinks... Thanks Fran!
Author:  crystaltips [ Tue Jun 03, 2008 8:57 pm ]
Post subject: 
Hmmm, all very strange & intriguing. Methinks we need more as soon as possible.

Thanks.
Author:  Becky [ Wed Jun 04, 2008 1:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
Have just read this all in one sitting and it's fab, thanks Frances!

Looking forward to more soon :D
Author:  Abi [ Thu Jun 19, 2008 2:48 pm ]
Post subject: 
This is weird and mysterious - why won't they let Phil see Joey? I suppose it must be incredibly difficult to keep the peace in such a large family. I hope everything doesn't just blow up suddenly.

Hope to see more soon!
Author:  JellySheep [ Thu Jun 26, 2008 3:26 pm ]
Post subject: 
Please Miss, we want some more!

This is great. And it's interesting to see another version of where all the characters get to (though I always confuse them)
Author:  aitchemelle [ Fri Oct 30, 2009 3:32 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Argh! Returned to this after possibly more than a year and was hoping to find some more!!

Please Fran, I know you're busy but... is there any more?
Author:  shazwales [ Sun Nov 08, 2009 7:18 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Fran,only just found this,any chance of a little bit more please :?: :?:
Author:  PaulineS [ Sun Nov 08, 2009 8:17 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Supporting the call for more please.
Author:  Luisa [ Fri Nov 13, 2009 1:34 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Pretty please?
Author:  janetbrown23 [ Fri Nov 13, 2009 3:53 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Okay, sighs, its time for the chant
Author:  di [ Sat Nov 14, 2009 8:37 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Joining the chant quietly.
Author:  charli [ Sat Nov 14, 2009 10:04 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Having just read all this through in one go, can i also join in the chant for more!
(please)
Author:  janetbrown23 [ Sun Nov 15, 2009 12:06 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Please do Charli the more the merrier especially as I have to mime as I am a terribly bad chanter.
Author:  carrie [ Sun Mar 07, 2010 11:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
I can chant very loudly if that would help?
Author:  La Petite Em [ Thu Apr 08, 2010 10:21 am ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
*joins the chant enthusiastically* :trumpet: More please Fran?
Author:  Len [ Mon Apr 26, 2010 7:39 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Losing Time - u/d 31/5 p12
Just read it all through in one go - very gripping and I'm anxious to know what's to happen next. Any chance of some more?
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