Pondering The Archers: jamie perks

Jazzer farts

Ed, Jazzer and Jamie are on their shearing job.

All went well with the work, so we hear more of them after the fact. While downing pints.

[Jazzer] “Come on lads, may be the sheep be plentiful and the wool thick and long!”

As they then bed down for the night, Jazzer starts farting.

[Jazzer] “Better oot than in.”

(ooft … I could smell that from here!)

Well, at least Jamie would well chuffed to be part of the shearing team.

Wednesdays are always quiet in The Bull

Wonder why that is?

Did Lilian leave her pants?

Matt reckons that now Paul’s funeral is over, both he and Lilian can look forward to their holiday.

Hmmm.

Lilian then calls Jolene in a panic. She hasn’t packed. And worse, as she starts, she realises:

[Lilian] “Oh my god, my perfume. I left my perfume in the apartment!”

And her scarf.

Lilian’s in a pure panic now. She’s terrified Paul’s children will realise they belong to her, and then realise something had been afoot.

So, Jolene agrees to go with Lilian to collect her stuff from the flat.

When they get there, Lilian wants to take the watercolour she and Paul bought together. Which Jolene agrees to stash at hers.

[Lilian] “Oh Paul. And you were so alone!”

And she starts sobbing.

Lilian now reckons she can’t go on holiday with Matt. It doesn’t “feel right”.

But Jolene tries to reason that it’s a new start for her.

[Jolene] “What’s happened to Paul has been horrible for you.”

[Lilian] “I loved him.”

[Jolene] “I know, and I know how’ll bad you’ll miss him. I don’t wanna seem harsh, but he’s gone. Matt’s here, and Matt loves you … I know you love him.”

But, Lilian admits that if Paul hadn’t died, Lilian would probably have left Matt.

[Jolene] “He’s got his faults, well so has any man. So have we all. You’ve got so much in common, your fight, your ambition, your drive,. Your brains. You complement each other so well. Don’t throw it all away Lilian. Not now.”

Oh dear.

Maybe Matt’s psychological warfare is having an effect on Lilian, but one which will destroy them.

(and no. It didn’t sound like Lilian left her pants)

Jazzer to work in the Super Dairy?

Well, he is going to ask Rob for a job.

[Ed] “Put you next to a cow, and you wouldn’t know one end from the udder!”

(oh ho!)

But Jazzer reckons he has “transferrable” skills. And he also wants his own flat (the job just happens to come with one).

The interview should be interesting (probably reminiscent of Spud’s in Trainspotting)

Wednesday, 12 June 2013

Emma had to turn a mattress: Wed 12.06.13 #thearchers

Pondering The Archers Wednesday 12th June 2013

Size doesn’t matter to Jazzer
Emma actually has to do some graft
Clarrie recruits Jazzer
George is still praying
Clarrie picks her weeds, they just grow back
Emma wants to arrange flowers

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Tuesday, 30 April 2013

Ifty kisses Elizabeth: Thurs 04.04.14 #thearchers

Pondering The Archers Thursday 4th April 2013

Ifty and Elizabeth get close … then not
Kathy and Pat have a girls night out
Jamie’s still working
Pat’s hesitancy might make Tom go elsewhere
Alice and Chris decide about Canada

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE

Friday, 28 December 2012

David wants to relax this Christmas: Wed 05.12.12 #thearchers

The Archers Wednesday 5th December 2012

Mike’s not impressed by Keith Horrobin’s sentence
Jamie’s good with a chipper
Matt takes Lilian shopping
Mike and Vicky learn how to bathe a doll
All in a name
David’s time off is good news for Ed
Ed’s pride is a bit dull

Mike’s not impressed by Keith Horrobin’s sentence

(if you don’t listen to Ambridge Extra – Keith Horrobin was sentenced to 4 years yesterday. All Ambridge Extra blog posts can be found here: http://ponderingthearchers.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/ambridge%20extra)

He thinks 4 years wasn’t enough.

Ed concurs, though David (one of the direct victims) thinks it’s a good and proper sentence.

[David] “Even if he does get out in two years, I’d say justice was done and Ruth feels the same. And I hope Emma feels it was worth it.”

Jamie’s good with a chipper

Reckons Mike.

He and Jamie have to spread the chippings on Home Farm land so that the shooters don’t get much on their gaiters.

(Why have gaiters if you can’t cope with mud?!?)

Matt takes Lilian shopping

Matt’s stepping up his ‘good guy’ routine.

First, he’s been cosying up to James.

Now he’s taken time off of work (!) to take Lilian shopping for the afternoon, and promises not to complain while Lilian has a proper browse (!!).

Lilian doesn’t really sound that excited about shopping with Matt.

Matt has to work very hard to convince her to buy a very expensive coat that she showed a liking for. Which isn’t very Lilian-like.

And when Vicky and Mike stumble upon her and Matt (while Lilian is still trying the expensive coast):

[Lilian] “I don’t know. I can’t seem to decide. Perhaps I need some space to decide.”

And then Lilian suggests they just wait for the sales … not Lilian type behaviour at all.

She obviously only has thoughts of her Paul …

Mike and Vicky learn how to bathe a doll

Did Mike really do absolutely nothing when Brenda and Roy were wee?

Seems so.

All in a name

Vicky likes Bethany, Angela, Claire and Daisy.

So far.

I’m sure it’ll change a few times …

Mike wasn’t too keen on Daisy (though I don’t suppose he’ll actually have much say):

[Mike] “Sounds a bit like a cow to me.”

David’s time off is good news for Ed

David asks Ed for a ‘favour’. He wants to take some proper time off over Christmas, so asks Ed if he’ll feed the Brookfield stock Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day.

All paid, at holiday rates.

[David] “I know it’s a lot to ask, but it would make a heck of a difference to us.”

Good lad, David.

I don’t suppose Brookfield is that flush for cash right now, but even they can spare a few coppers in a way that lets Ed keep his pride.

Now that’s the Christmas spirit!

Ed’s pride is a bit dull

David buys Ed a pint.

He asks him how much he pays for fertiliser and concentrates.

David thinks they could save on both if Brookfield and Grange farms combined their orders.

[Ed] “I appreciate this David, but I’m not looking for charity.”

Eh?

David gives Ed work over the festive time … obviously to help Ed, but that’s not charity.

David buys Ed a pint … Ed’s unlikely to be able to buy a pint back, but that’s not charity.

David suggests a plan that will save both their farms money … that’s charity?

Methinks Ed isn’t exactly thinking straight.

Friday, 30 November 2012

Daniel’s 18th birthday: The Archers Fri 16.11.12 #thearchers

The Archers Friday 16th November 2012

Daniel buys his first pint in The Bull
Bunty and Reg don’t want meals on wheels
Daniel’s party
Who is Rhys trying to suck up to?
Shires just isn’t the same
The kids in America
I Gotta Feeling
Mark would have been proud
Worried that Jim’s going pagan
Kenton accepts he’s not a young ‘un?
Ed needs Eddie for a pint

Daniel buys his first pint in The Bull

Yup, he’s a man now.

Bunty and Reg don’t want meals on wheels

Shula had organised frozen meals to be delivered to Reg and Bunty, but they’ve cancelled them. Much to Shula’s frustration.

[Shula] “They’re lovely, but he sees it as an insult. I was only trying to make their life easier.”

Oops.

Sounds like Shula’s life just got more difficult then.

Daniel’s party

James and Leonie were there.

Oh joy.

It sounded like Daniel got an iPad.

Most of his class turned up to celebrate. Shula has hired a marquee. And got a hog roast.

(how posh!)

Daniel had a marvellous time.

[Daniel] “This is the best night of my life!”

Who is Rhys trying to suck up to?

Lynda is very impressed with Rhys’ acting ability.

Seems Lynda said to him: “Rhys, you’re giving it such subtext”.

Fallon reckons he’s teacher’s pet.

[Rhys] “I’m not trying to impress Lynda, okay!”

[Fallon] “Well, who then?”

Hmmm …

Oh Fallon and Rhys – just get on with it!

Shires just isn’t the same

Reckons Jazzer, according to Ed, since Fallon stopped pouring them.

Though Fallon seems to be enjoying Jaxx, she also misses Ambridge.

[Rhys] “Things don’t feel quite the same round here though.”

He missed Fallon, and isn’t exactly having a ball with Kenton in charge.

[Rhys] “Me and Fallon, we’re sort of a team … I’m just not in the loop anymore.”

Doesn’t help that Kenton also treats Rhys like a scullery maid. When Kenton gets back in, he immediately takes over the bar, sending Rhys out to collect glasses.

The kids in America

Daniel’s going to take a gap year, probably heading off to live in America, either in new York or San Francisco.

Jamie’s already planning to stay with him.

[Daniel] “The Ambridge boys take on America, it’s a deal.”

I Gotta Feeling

By the Black Eyed Peas, was playing at Daniel’s party.

That’s a song played at my footy team when we win.

We didn’t get to hear it much last season, but more or less every week this season.

‘Mon Queen of the South!

(sorry for interrupting, but we really have been marvellous this season!)

Mark would have been proud

Shula’s having a moment with Kenton about Daniel flying the coup.

[Shula] “Having Daniel, it’s what kept me going.”

[Kenton] “You should be proud. He’s a fine young man, And Mark would be proud too.”

Indeed. Daniel does seem like a nice young chap.

Worried that Jim’s going pagan

Jim’s obsessing about dressing trees for the Community Orchard event.

Olive and Caroline are worried he’s revelling too much in what seems to be a Pagan ritual.

[Kenton] “Him and Joe dancing naked around the orchard!”

Shula thanks him for burning that image forever into her brain …

Kenton accepts he’s not a young ‘un?

[Kenton] “Time for me to bow out and let the bright young things get on with it.”

Blimey!

Kenton would normally force himself to stay up to the bitter end.

Jolene really has helped him settle.

Ed needs Eddie for a pint

Ed’s in The Bull looking for Eddie.

He can’t afford his own pint.

Grim.

Thursday, 29 November 2012

George doesn’t like cheap cereal: Tues 06.11.12 #thearchers

The Archers Tuesday 6th November 2012

Brenda’s having a horrid time, Tom isn’t listening
Nic to the rescue
Brenda’s printer is broken
Does Speakman’s like salty ready meals?
Jamie got the job
Brenda’s computer is broken

Brenda’s having a horrid time, Tom isn’t listening

Brenda actually missed Bonfire Night (even though she just lives over the way from The Bull) because she was in bed early. Knackered.

Leonie seems to be causing havoc at Lilian and Matt’s.

[Brenda] “She was at the Dower House all yesterday, which means Matt's even in a worse mood.”

So, Brenda is getting shouted at by a bad tempered Matt, a bad tempered Lilian, a constantly rude James and a vitriolic Leonie.

Does Tom hear that?

No.

He’s too busy talking about pigs in blankets and what he’d sold at Bonfire night.

[Brenda] “What do you think I should do though. I’m not prepared to be treated like a dogsbody.”

Tom doesn’t have time to answer. He’s off out again.

What is it with the Ambridge men at the moment?

Tom wants to marry Brenda. She doesn’t seem to be too interested these days. Instead of treating her as gold to get her interested, he ignores her.

Matt knows Lilian has a fondness for his half-brother Paul. He took her to Paris to remind her how much he loves her, and how good they are together. Since then, he’s treating her like pants.

Odd way to keep their women still their women.

Nic to the rescue

Nic’s in a foul mood with Will. Seems he and Ed spent all of Bonfire Night glaring at each other.

Though Will claims the kids still had a great time, Nic reckons:

[Nic] “But only because me and Emma managed to keep you both apart.”

Will sees himself as just looking after his son.

But, Nic later calms down when George asks her to buy the cereal he likes. The proper brand, not the cheap replica Emma buys him.

That seems to have struck a chord with Nic.

[Nic] “It’s because they’ve got no money Will … can’t you see that they’re struggling … we are lucky. You earn a good wage, and our home comes with the job.”

And, Will’s house on the Green (that Tom and Brenda rent) was gifted to him, not earned.

[Nic] “You’ve told me what it was like growing up, you know how hard it can be making ends meet, especially today.”

So, Nic agrees that it would be better for everyone if George does spend more nights with them.

[Nic] “The way you went about it was appalling. But it’s still a good idea.”

But, Nic is going to do the suggesting this time.

Brenda’s printer is broken

Shame.

Does Speakman’s like salty ready meals?

Seems so.

They placed another order with Tom.

Jamie got the job

I didn’t even know he’d gone for one.

He’s to be a groundsman with some chap called Isaac. And, he’ll be doing courses to learn felling, climbing, and using a chainsaw – which will take him up to 3 years to complete.

[Jamie] “It’s like a proper job, It’s no longer than Uni, and at least some of the time I’d be getting paid. And I’d enjoy it.”

Though Kathy obviously still wants Jamie to be Cambridge material, she’s accepting that he’s passionate about becoming a tree surgeon.

Brenda’s computer is broken

Shame.

Seems Lilian told her to lend it to James, who then managed to encrypt all of the files.

Which means Brenda has to stay late to fix it, rather than have dinner (salty ready meals?) with Tom.

He still doesn’t seem to notice she’s having a horrid time.

Saturday, 20 October 2012

Paul rescues Lilian: Fri 19.10.12

The Archers Friday 19th October 2012

It’s the same night as the day before
Of course he wouldn’t leave Lilian alone
Brian gets his man
James’ car has a waiting list
The Rotarians are tiring Kathy
Jamie makes Kathy a cup of tea
Jamie wants to work for himself

It’s the same night as the day before

How odd.

That means we’ll never get to hear what happened in Ambridge on Friday 19th October 2012 .

I hope the trickery and randomness of Ambridge Extra isn’t going to influence our usual microphone placing people …

I also got confused with my notes yesterday. It was only tonight that Jennifer gets home to find out Alice has her MSC.

How confusing!

Of course he wouldn’t leave Lilian alone

[Paul] “It’s no good, you’re not going to get a skinny mochachino, no foam, out of that thing.”

Lilian called, Paul came running.

[Paul] “Lilian, of course I came. There’s no way I’d leave you on your own with this.”

Paul sits with Lilian, and helps her to get some answers, only leaving when Lilian’s allowed to see James … and in case Matt turns up (which is unlikely. Matt will still be boozing with his mates).

Paul returns later to drive Lilian back home in her own car, stopping off at a pub to then get a taxi back to his.

Inconvenient, but that’s what one does for the one one loves. (eh Matt)

[Paul] “I wouldn’t have dreamt of doing anything else.”

Brian gets his man

Rob said yes.

That’ll mean we’ll be welcoming some new Ambridge residents soon.

James’ car has a waiting list

James has an nondisplaced spiral fracture of the tibia.

[James] “and they keep telling me I’m lucky”

He didn’t need an operation, but will have his leg in plaster for three months, and won’t be able to walk properly for another couple of months after that.

[James] “How am I going to manage? Oh Ma!”

Well, he’ll be managing because Lilian will be looking after him. She’s insisting he comes to stay at the Dower House.

Seems his car didn’t come out of it so well. It’s a complete write off.

Though the car let him down:

[James] “I shouldn’t have been hurt at all with all the safety features it has.”

He is more worried about the car than himself:

[James] “Do you have any idea how long the waiting list is for that model, in that colour!?!”

He reckons he wasn’t speeding, and had been drinking … though he does admit (to Lilian) that he was going fast.

The Rotarians are tiring Kathy

Though she didn’t really reveal how and why …

Jamie makes Kathy a cup of tea

Without being asked to!

That boy really is growing up.

Jamie wants to work for himself

So Jamie’s big plan is to work with Mike, then start up his own business. He reckons he could take that business anywhere in the world.

Kathy’s worried about how secure that would be for him, but Jamie pointed out that no job is secure these days.

It sounds like Kathy is actually listening to Jamie, and that Jamie has started to think this through properly.

What a shocker.

No shouting to be found in the Perks’ household!

Friday, 12 October 2012

An Elizabethan Christmas: Thurs 11.10.12

The Archers Thursday 11th October 2012

It’s audition time
Mike reckons Jamie and trees are a perfect match
How does Robert know about lap dancing clubs?
A Shakespearian Selection

It’s audition time

For the Christmas show, though Lynda has a longer list of definite no shows than folks who have agreed to turn out.

Tom, Brenda, Roy, Hayley, Kenton and Jolene reckon they won’t be taking part (aye, Lynda will see about that …).

Neville, Nathon, Susan, Tracey and Kirsty are maybes.

Even Ifty, in his keenness to be part of Ambridge (or, to be more exact, Kirsty) is a maybe.

[Lynda] “He adds something to the cast.”

[Robert] “A degree of masculinity.”

Then Lynda made mention that she has Jazzer in mind for Borachio … isn’t Jazzer masculine enough for all?

Anyhoo – Lynda wants Fallon for the romantic lead. Jim’s also popped in (not to volunteer, more to meddle), and he reads Benedick to her Beatrice. It’s not very … romantic … but luckily enough Rhys also pops by. He reads Benedick, and they’re marvellous together.

Ah, here we go again.

Will Fallon get her leading man this year?

But, there’s not enough volunteers to make a play.

[Lynda] “All the regulars are deserting.”

[Robert] “We’re not going to solve anything hanging about in a deserted village hall at night.”

So they head home for a “large one”.

Mike reckons Jamie and trees are a perfect match

Kathy’s really putting a lot of thought into whether she should let Jamie leave college to be a tree surgeon. She’s even asking Mike’s advice.

She reckons the only time he shows any enthusiasm is when he has a chainsaw (yikes!) or is working with Mike. Jamie just hates college, and doesn’t get good grades.

[Kathy] “Well I don’t know. Is it true? If he left school now, could he really make a career out of tree surgery?”

[Mike] “He’s definitely got a feeling for trees.”

Mike also reckons Jamie has the perfect makings. He’s interested. Asks the right things. Has enthusiasm and uses his brains (when it comes to trees). Any anyway, Jamie would need qualifications, and could possibly do a degree later on. So he wouldn’t be completely abandoning education.

[Mike] “Not every child is academic Kathy, but it don't mean they can’t get on in life, eh?”

Ah, that’s why Mike’s being so positive. He’s thinking of his child, and though she might not get a 1st from Cambridge, it doesn’t mean she won’t have a cracking life.

Though hopefully his wor4ds will encourage Kathy to let Jamie actually be happy.

How does Robert know about lap dancing clubs?

He reads the papers.

Or that’s what he told Lynda …

A Shakespearian Selection

Robert’s really very good at coming up with good ideas.

Lynda’s quite upset that she hasn’t got a sufficient cast for Much Ado … so Robert suggests:

[Robert] “Instead of doing any whole play, what you should do is a Shakespearian selection.”

So, rather than a whole play, folks can do shot speeches, dance, music and the like.

Which will also mean no long rehearsals, with each person doing a turn able to rehearse solo.

Which, in turn, should make it easier for more to volunteer.

[Lynda] “A real Elizabethan Christmas!”

[Robert] “Jugglers, Fire-eaters … “

[Lynda] “Health and safety, Robert.”

[Robert] “They didn’t have to worry about that at The Globe.”

[Lynda] “Didn't it burn down?”

[Robert] “I tell you what, I’ll build you a Globe Theatre.”

[Lynda] “An Elizabethan Christmas … what better way to mark the end of a Jubilee year.”

Indeed.

Shame it’s not a Panto, but.

*sniff*

Sunday, 30 September 2012

Jamie now knows how to wield a chainsaw: Tues 11.09.12

The Archers Tuesday 11th September 2012

Oliver can’t do milking for bread making
Why would David be sneaking into Lower Loxley be a good idea?
Jamie skips College for a Chainsaw course
Ed almost dropped his peanuts
Badgers love peanuts

Oliver can’t do milking for bread making

Seems Oliver called Ed while quite upset. Something was amiss in his kitchen …

[Ed] “He was standing over the oven waiting for his bread to come out!”

And now can’t do his afternoon milking shift.

Ed’s not best amused. Even though Mike’s happy to help out (seems he is avoiding having to go home).

[Ed] “It seems like it going to be pistols at dawn between him and Jim Lloyd”

[Mike] “That’ll be a sight worth seeing.”

[Ed] “It’s not like him though. He’s so dependable.”

Blimey.

The men of the village really are taking the bread competition very seriously indeed.

But for poor Ed, it’s a case of bread, bread everywhere, but not a slice to eat.

He and Emma are so cash-strapped that there was only one slice left for George to have with his beans. Ed got a right bollocking for eating it.

Why would David be sneaking into Lower Loxley be a good idea?

Ruth seems to think it would.

She and Josh were off to visit Freddie, with David a tad despondent that he couldn’t go. Because of Elizabeth.

While over at Lower Loxley, Ruth then has a word with Lewis to work out when Elizabeth will be out. She tells David, and suggests he pops by then.

[David] “Would it seem like I was going behind Elizabeth’s back?”

Yes!

Though Ruth reckons no …

[Ruth] “It just makes it easier for you both, with things being a bit precarious for you still.”

Well, I don’t think it’s a good idea.

And a bit cowardly at that.

Jamie skips College for a Chainsaw course

Kathy is worried about Jamie.

He’s missing from College. Isn’t with Mike. And isn’t with Rosa.

When he turns up home, seems Kathy has found out that he’d been missing from College for two whole days.

[Kathy, furious] “Two days Jamie!!!”

But, unlike the last time Jamie went off the track chosen for him, he hasn’t been boozing, thieving or getting into trouble.

He was on an Advanced Chainsaw Course. Which he really (really) enjoyed.

[Jamie] “If you didn't follow the rules, then you’re stuffed, I didn’t mind that though cause I could see the reason for it.”

(blimey! Who would have thought it’d take a chainsaw to make Jamie see some sense)

Jamie even paid for the course out of the money he’d been saving for his driving lessons. For a kid in a rural area, that’s a big deal. First thing they generally do is get driving to get a bit of freedom.

But Kathy can’t see the good in it. She’s annoyed Jamie went behind her back:

[Kathy] “I'm not having you lie to me … You seem to think you can behave exactly as you please, you’re not 18 yet, I'm still the on supporting you, you should treat me with respect … you’re staying on at College alright, it’s what we agreed, and you know it’s for your own good.”

Jamie, reluctantly, agrees.

Which is a shame, as Kathy’s completely wrong this time.

Considering Jamie has never quite been enthralled by school or college, surely she should be encouraging him when he does find something he’s passionate about?

Ed almost dropped his peanuts

[Ed, sounding quite upset] “I just got my jacket caught in the branch, I almost dropped my peanuts!”

Actually, the peanuts weren’t for Ed.

They were for the badgers.

Badgers love peanuts

And they should love them enough to eventually get into Ed’s traps, so he can vaccinate them.

[David] “I don’t know, I never thought I’d see the day I’d be paying someone to put snacks out for badgers on my land. Anything else they fancy, flat screen TV to whole away the evening, couple of cans of beer?”

[Ed] “Just peanuts is fine.”

[David] “They must think Christmas has come early.”

Seems Ed hasn’t caught any as yet though – but that’s part of the plan. They out the traps out, leave them for a few days (with peanuts) so the badgers get used to them – then they set them.

[Ed] “Now they’ve been lulled into a false sense of security … You should see them when you open the cage door after they’ve had their jab.”

Ed tells David about how the badgers nearly knocked one of the other chaps on the course nearly off his feet.

[David] “They can’t help causing trouble, can they, ever when you're trying to help them.”

[Ed] “You seen get used to their little ways .”

[David, not convinced] “Yeah well, you might.”

Later on, as Ruth is telling David that Ed is keeping clear of the house because of a narky Emma:

[David] “Anyway, he thinks he might strike luckily tonight.”

[Ruth] “With the badgers, you mean?”

[David] “Yeah, he’s got a one track mind!”

David still isn’t convinced they should be vaccinating the badgers. He’d far rather sort them out with his shotgun.

[David] “I just can’t look at them without remembering the misery they’ve caused us.”

The badgers better hope Ed gets to them before David does, once they’re in the traps.

Elizabeth apologises AND takes responsibility: Tues 04.09.12

The Archers Tuesday 4th September 2012

The first crop of carrots
Chilled or frozen?
Brenda and Tom mention they’re engaged!
Jamie can’t go to Tug Fowler
Brenda proves her worth
Elizabeth, self-chastising
Jamie’s “not bothered”

The first crop of carrots

Brenda is (rather unwillingly) helping Tom to lift this year’s first carrots from Bridge Farm.

Seems Jamie won’t be happy to hear that. For some odd reason, Kathy’s there watching them lift the carrots, and says that:

[Kathy] “He isn’t keen on any vegetables unless their swamped in a sauce.”

So she’s going to make goulash, which Jamie adores, and hide carrots so Jamie will eat them.

Which he doesn’t. he just picks them out.

Kathy really does need to get out more.

Chilled or frozen?

Tom and Brenda are back on the chat about ready meals.

They’re arguing over whether to do the ready meals chilled or frozen.

Kathy concurs with Tom that chilled sounds better (in a more healthy, fresh way, I’ll assume), but ever-the-practical Brenda thinks frozen is more practical (for them or the customer, I don’t know).

They’re wasting their time asking Kathy for her opinion. She buys chilled, then freezes them. And:

[Kathy] “I prefer, not taking sides, then you can’t get blamed for anything.”

Go on Kathy.

Live a little!

Brenda and Tom mention they’re engaged!

Blimey!

Feels like years since they acknowledge they’d betrothed.

But, it was hardly in a romantic way.

Brenda had taken her engagement ring off while they were working with the carrots, then couldn’t find it.

She was starting to get hysterical when Tom found it.

[Tom] “No need to go all Gollum on me!”

(ha! That was quite witty of Tom)

Anyhoo – it wasn’t anything important to listen in to, so I wonder if it’s a hint that they might actually be getting married sometime soon …

Jamie can’t go to Tug Fowler

Though he’s been watching Tug Fowler on his computer (must be YouTube and the like), he can’t go and see him at The Bull.

Over 18s only.

[Jamie] “But it’s totally unfair!”

Aye, life’s like that, young My Perks.

Brenda proves her worth

My word.

Brenda is not only showing her human side, she’s actually proving to be quite a decent human at that.

She and Tom are talking about Vicky and Mike’s baby.

[Tom] “I just feel sorry for them. Having a child at their age is hard enough, but when it’s got Down’s … it’s so sad.”

But Brenda isn’t so sure it’s “sad”. Though Mike wasn’t the greatest dad for her and Roy:

[Brenda] “He’s changed so much Tom, he’s much more open than he used to be, since mum died … the more you ask of him, the more he gives.”

[Tom] “The baby will need to much extra help. Do you think they’ll cope?”

[Brenda] “I don’t know. I think maybe they’ll do more than cope … I think it will really work out for them … up to now Vicky and dad have never had anything that’s their own … this could pull them together, make them a better team.”

Elizabeth, self-chastising

Elizabeth calls round to see Shula.

[Shula] “If you’re expecting an apology for what I said …”

Not at all.

Elizabeth tells Shula that she was angry at Shula for asking Freddie to take Topper’s tackle off (it’s “what started” Freddie getting hurt). She was also angry at the bloke on the motorbike who startled Topper into throwing Freddie. And, she’s angry at Nigel.

[Elizabeth] “Yes, I get angry with him, all the time. How am I supposed to bring up Freddie and Lily alone, I’m hopeless at it.”

Seems Elizabeth stood in front of a mirror last night.

[Elizabeth] “I just stood there and called myself every name under the sun … I nearly let Freddie get killed, and then I blame everyone else.”

[Shula] “Now you’re being too hard on yourself.”

(well, I totally disagree with Shula there. Elizabeth needs to have that hard look at herself and acknowledge when she’s wrong).

Elizabeth plays the Nigel card.

[Elizabeth] “Shula, he has a look sometimes, he asks me something and I just melt. He really is Nigel’s son … don’t you make excuses for me, I know what I should have done … I’m stupid, I get it all wrong … forgive me?”

[Shula] “You don’t even have to ask. Yes. Of course I do. You’re my sister.”

Damn!

I only just said yesterday that it was about time someone told Elizabeth not to use the Nigel excuse anymore. Shula did. And has now retracted it.

10 steps back yet again …

Jamie’s “not bothered”

Jamie wouldn’t say much to Kathy about his first day at College.

After much prying, he admits it’s because he’d seen Natalie.

[Jamie] “If Natalie wants to hang out with some loser from the basketball team, then go ahead.”

So Natalie has a new boyfriend, and Jamie reckons he’s “not bothered” if he ever speaks to her again.

Should we be bothered about such common teenage angst?

Friday, 31 August 2012

Vicky’s amniocentesis is positive: Wed 29.08.12

The Archers Wednesday 29th August 2012

Harry’s back
Fallon’s booked Tug Fowler
Tray of chips for Harry
Jamie’s going on a cutting course
No-one will live with Jazzer
Rhys and Fallon are not happy with each other
It’s bad news for Vicky and Mike

Harry’s back

His first visit was to Mike to apologise for leaving his job so abruptly.

[Harry] “You’ve got every right to be hacked off with me too … I really want to apologise face to face, jacking in my job like that, it’s not the careful Harry that everyone know. I surprised myself to be honest, when it comes to someone you really love, well, you’ll do anything for them … I’m sorry and I wanted to thank you for giving me the job in the first place.”

Mike accepts his apology, but is actually quite distracted. Vicky’s test is due back any day now.

Fallon’s booked Tug Fowler

He’ll be appearing at The Bull in 3 weeks’ time.

Rhys doesn’t sound enthusiastic.

He reckons Jolene won’t be happy either …

Tray of chips for Harry

Rhys reckons.

Fallon would like slightly more elegant catering for Harry’s farewell party lock-in at The Bull.

(which Fallon won’t let Jamie stay for as she reckons he’s still too young. Spoil sport!)
Well, chops or not, Harry enjoyed his leaving do. And they didn’t get raided by the Police for having a lock-in.

Harry’s final word went to Rhys:

[Rhys] “I’ve just been talking about bread, so I thought I might as well make a toast …To my one time Anglo/Welsh rival … we thought he was a cyclist, but turns out to be quite the dark horse … he’s a smart cookie but he’s proved that when the heart speaks, the brain shuts up.”

Farewell Mr Harry Mason.

I doubt Ambridge’s milk will ever again be delivered by such a handsome and enthusiastic bloke.

Jamie’s going on a cutting course

Organised by Mike.

Can we foresee Jamie leaving College (again) to have a life worked in the woods?

No-one will live with Jazzer

Jazzer is not amused with Harry having left him to live alone.

[Jazzer] “You’re lucky I didnae just chuck your stuff threw the windae!”

Though Jazzer reckons he makes for great company, and encourages a “laid back lifestyle” in those lucky to share a home with him, he can’t find someone to replace Harry.

And he needs to. He can’t afford the rent by himself. So, not flatmate, no flat:

[Jazzer] “I’ll be back with my ma!”

But not all is lost. Harry leaves Jazzer his kettle, and:

[Jazzer] “A food processor, jings, I cannae believe my luck!”

(by-the-by, no Scot has said ‘jings’ since The Broons)

Jazzer then immediately tries to sell the food processor (and the bread maker, Harry also graciously gave him)

[Rhys] “Ah you haven't been looting again Jazzer have you?”

Ha!

Rhys and Fallon are not happy with each other

[Rhys] “I dunno what’s got into Fallon. She used to be laid back. Someone you could have a laugh with … it must be the power going to her head … like something she’s got to prove … over-compensating for something.”

(Jazzer couldn’t say why Fallon’s had such a mood change … all credit to him for still being a gent and not telling about the night he spent with Fallon under the (campervan) stars)

[Rhys] “All I know is she stopped listening to common sense.”

[Harry] “To you, you mean.”

[Rhys] “She’s driving me mad!”

When Rhys steps away, enter Fallon:

[Fallon] “I don’t know what’s got into Rhys, he used to have a bit of get up and go, a bit of a spark. … deep down he’s a stick in the mud … I tell you Harry, he’s driving me mad!”

Love is in the air, I reckon.

It’s bad news for Vicky and Mike

Vicky takes a phone call. She ends the call crying.

[Vicky] “I’m so sorry Mike.”

[Mike] “No, it’s um, we’ll find some way through it.”

[Vicky] “Will we?”

[Mike] “Yeah, yeah of course we will.”

No-one said it, but we can only assume Vicky’s test showed the baby has Down’s Syndrome.

Sunday, 26 August 2012

Eddie’s publically humiliated on radio: Wed 22.08.12

The Archers Wednesday 22nd August 2012

Was local radio ever this vindictive?
Joe’s keeping an eye on Kathy
Rosa’s stalking pays off
Kathy wants a better match for Jamie
The Loch Ness monster is too much for Eddie
Jamie listens to AND agrees with Kathy

Was local radio ever this vindictive?

Eddie’s been asked to do an interview with Radio Borchester’s Wayne Folley about the Ambridge beast.

[Joe] “I’d watch out if I was you … that Wayne Folley … why he’s so keen to do this interview … he’s very clever Eddie, I wouldn’t trust him.”

I’m with Joe. Wayne didn’t exactly help Bridge Farm when he edited down his interview with Pat …

But Eddie reckons it’ll be fine. Wayne just knows a ‘good story’ . And it’ll be superb publicity for Eddie’s statues.

[Eddie] “Don’t you worry dad, I know how to handle the media.”

When Eddie gets to the radio station:

[Wayne] “Forget about the studio, just pretend we’re chatting over a jar, in that wonderful local of yours.”

Wayne asks Eddie to describe the beast.

Big eyes, big sharp teeth, hairy …

[Eddie] “It’s hard to describe on the radio, if you really want to know what it looks like, have a look on one of my statues …”

Seems they’re on special this week …

[Eddie] “I look on it at educating the public, like natural history, you know.”

[Wayne, looking at photos of Eddie statues] “It’s a curious creature … Looks to me almost like two or three animals put together …”

Wayne also has photos of Eddie’s other statues. It would seem the Beast is very similar to what it would look like if Eddie has put together his pig, rabbit and dog.

[Wayne] “Isn’t that a bit of an odd coincidence … come on Eddie, isn’t it true you’re pulling a fast one …We’ve all had a laugh, now why not take this chance to come clean … tell the good folk of Ambridge they’ve nothing to fear, that it’s safe to go back into the woods.”

Ouch!

Our local radio just cover flower and produce shows, school plays, amateur dramatic productions and the occasional piece about potholes!

Joe’s keeping an eye on Kathy

[Joe] “Kathy Perks was vacant this morning, thought perhaps I’d just drop in.”

That’s nice of Joe.

And no ulterior motive. Just being a good chap.

Rosa’s stalking pays off

Jamie calls Rosa, after she’s left a number of messages and been round to his house.

[Rosa] “Ah well, I didn’t want to crowd you, I was just worried.”

Jamie seems to appreciate the attention, and arranges to meet her down by the river.

Seems Jamie’s been leaving messages and texts for Natalie, but she’s not answering.

Rosa says she’s text Natalie as well, to let her know that she and Jamie really hadn’t been doing anything. But she still feels guilty.

[Rosa] “I mean, if we hadn’t been messing around …”

But Jamie thinks it would have happened anyway. Natalie was “high” that night as she was drunk, and had got such good results.

[Jamie] “It was all getting too intense anyway … I reckon we could both do with some time out. No ties, no complications, I’d be free to hang out with whoever I like.”

On not getting good enough results:

[Rosa] “It’s okay for people like Nat, and all those nerdy kids who do essays …Who needs them, I can still be rich and famous, and I can still be happy, can’t I?”

Well, yes. And no.

But it’s certainly not what Kathy will want for her previous one.

Kathy wants a better match for Jamie

Kathy’s talking to Joe about Jamie splitting up with Natalie.

She’s a bit sad about it. Natalie was a nice girl, with good grades …

[Kathy] “Whereas Rosa, I’m sure she’s a perfectly nice girl, lively, sociable … you’d hardly call her academic … which is absolutely fine, of course, absolutely no reason why not, it’s just, now Jamie’s saying he won’t be going back to college … she’s bound to be sending him all the wrong messages.”

The Loch Ness monster is too much for Eddie

When Eddie gets home, Joe can’t stop laughing at him.

[Eddie] “It was a setup, that Wayne was out to get me from the start!”

[Joe] “We all heard it Eddie, shame it was a pack of lies … you just don’t know when you stop … you walked right into that one.”

[Eddie] “I;m going down to the shed. I need a drink.”

After a few ciders, Eddie’s back to get laughed at again by Joe.

[Eddie] “Stuff Wayne Folley and his rubbish show. Why should I worry, nobody listens to it anyway!”

But they do.

Joe’s taken one call for a refund. And:

[Joe] “It was from the local ness monster, honest it sounded like the real thing to me, big and fierce and a Scottish accent an all. Asking if he and the beast could meet up for a drink!”

[Eddie] “That’s Jazzer. Oh I’m done for now, I’m finished, I can never show my face in the village again!”

As usual Eddie, it serves you right.

Jamie listens to AND agrees with Kathy

Blimey.

[Kathy] “If we don’t talk about important things, what am I here for?”

[Jamie] “Things that are important to you aren’t always the same for me.”

Though it sounded like Kathy and Jamie were about to have one of their arguments, it was all very calm and sensible.

They both must be growing up a bit …

Jamie doesn’t see the point in further education. He’ll end up with a student loan, and it won’t guarantee him a job.

[Jamie] “I don’t need it, I’ve got better things to do with my life.”

But Kathy reasons that the job market might get tougher and tougher, so Jamie should get every advantage.

[Kathy] “Do you really want to be in your mid 20s and still be doing causal labour … it may seem like the easy option.”

And then Jamie agreed.

Just like that.

He’s going back to College.

That was easy!

Ifty didn’t fancy Tracey because of Keith: Tues 21.08.12

(aye, right then!)

The Archers Tuesday 21st August 2012

Susan won’t go to court
Kathy wishes she had Jamie’s social life
Tracey really is demented
Sick cows will be the ruin of Emma and Ed
Rosa’s on a boy hunt
Brookfield’s back to ‘normal’

Susan won’t go to court

Keith was up at the magistrates today.

[Emma] “I don’t know what will happen, and I can’t say I’m bothered.”

Susan says she can’t (won’t) go.

[Tracey] “You really don’t care don’t you. Never mind he’s your bother, never mind that he risked his skin to grass up his mates.”

[Susan] “So he could try and get off with a lighter sentence!”

[Tracey] “So that he could try and get some kind of justice. He did the right thing in the end.”

[Susan] “You know where I stand … I;m not coming.”

[Tracey] “When he’s lucky one of us still knows the meaning of family loyalty.”

Even when it’s misplaced, eh Tracey?

And I’m not remotely surprised Susan won’t go.

Aside from Keith having been a very bad lad, court must also bring back painful memories of her own incarceration …

When Tracey later crosses paths with Emma:

[Tracey] “You! I’ve got nothing to say to you. This is all your fault, I hope you’re satisfied.”

*sigh*

Anyhoo, Keith is committed for trial at the Crown Court. Though he’s been bailed, he can’t go anywhere near Ambridge.

Kathy wishes she had Jamie’s social life

Eh?

I couldn’t imagine anything worse.

Kathy really needs to get out more (and with folks of her own generation).

Tracey really is demented

She thinks that she’s sacrificed her future happiness with Ifty by standing up for bother Keith.

[Tracey] “Ifty … me and Ifty. It’s finished. It’s all over between us.”

[Susan] “Tracey what are you on about? … what do you mean all over, nothing’s happened? … I knew you were after him of course, you made that pretty obvious …”

[Tracey] “My big chance. For once in my life I’d met a nice decent bloke, and now it’s finished. All because of Keith.”

[Susan] “Hold on, are you telling me, you and him … did he even go out with you? No he didn’t!”

[Tracey] “I reckon Ifty won’t have nothing to do with me cause my brother’s a crook … can’t see why else …”

[Susan, starting to lose her common sense when she thinks someone is demeaning her family] “He thinks your family isn’t good enough for him! … Well I;m sorry, but I can’t say I;m too surprised.”

[Tracey] “Yeah, you must he happy now, you never liked him from the start.”

[Susan] “Just leave it Tracey.”

What a strange, stranger family.

Sick cows will be the ruin of Emma and Ed

The vet bills are crippling Ed and Emma. It couldn’t have come at a worse time, what with milk prices.

[Emma] “I don’t know how we’re going to manage mum. Mike’s not giving us much for our milk.”

They had to cancel George going on a school trip as they couldn’t afford it. And Keira needs new shoes, which is also well beyond their means.

Susan brings them round some chicken pies, and wants to take Emma out shopping Saturday morning and to buy Keira’s shoes for them.

[Susan] “I feel like I owe you, after everything.”

Rosa’s on a boy hunt

She really, really does like Jamie.

Rosa calls and leaves him a voice message. She says she’s been thinking about his since the party.

[Rosa] “Be nice to meet up again sometime?”

She then goes round to see if Jamie is home. But it’s only Kathy.

Rosa tells Kathy that Jamie’s split up with Natalie (Kathy didn’t know), and what Jamie had told her was his exams results (better than he actually got, which Kathy didn’t know. She knew the real results).

Not sure if Rosa was stirring, or genuinely didn’t realise she was dropping Jamie in it.

But she then dropped herself in it by telling Kathy that she’s told Jamie exams don’t matter.

Kathy didn’t appreciate that. Maybe Rosa’s scooter won’t be enough to make her decent daughter-in-law material after all.

Brookfield’s back to ‘normal’

[Ruth] “Job satisfaction all round … nice to get back to some real old fashioned farming again. Calving, the weather …”

She’s talking to Emma about the relief that it would seem the gang nightmare is over.

[Ruth] “We won’t forget what you did for us, or what it’s cost you.”

Ach well. Emma doesn’t need aunts and uncles like Tracey and Keith in her life, I reckon.

Saturday, 18 August 2012

Adam and Jamie accept their fate (separately, of course): Thurs 16.08.12

The Archers Thursday 16th August 2012

Kathy’s on about Rosa again
Brian and Adam shake on it
The exam results ‘rave’
Jamie’s not going to Uni
Rosa finally gets her man …

Kathy’s on about Rosa again

Quite bizarre.

But at least this time she’s calling Rosa “cool” to her face.

Rosa’s new scooter really has turned Kathy’s head.

Anyhoo.

Kathy happens to mention that Natalie is having the exam results party.

At that, Rosa’s speeding off on her 50cc, at 30 miles an hour.

Brian and Adam shake on it

Brian tells Adam that he’s stopped the Farm Manager recruitment advert from going in again next week.

[Adam] “Okay, so …”

[Brian] “For now. And I’m really hoping I don’t have to again, but I'm still waiting for that commitment from you.”

And Brian wants that commitment before the pickers party at Home Farm.

[Brian] “Your mother’s putting so much love and care into the celebrations … it’s a family celebration to … this time a week ago, she was terrified you’d be leaving the farm going to goodness knows where … she’d be very upset if it unravel again.”

[Adam] “What more do you want of me, exactly … how about this, I'll stay on, and I’ll be fully committed to running the whole of the arable business, including supplying the dairy.”

It’s exactly what Brian needed to hear. And Adam sounds like he’s also convinced himself as well. He’s going all into this, as there’s no point being half hearted, and he’s promised not to moan.

[Adam] “I’ll do all I can to make to work for us, and that’s a promise.”

[Brian] “Thanks Adam, I know that can’t have been easy for you.”

And they shake on it. Adam keeps his job (at the price of his ethics), Brian gets his preferred Farm manager (at no extra cost at all!).

[Brian] “This may not always seem obvious to you, but keeping the family together means just as much to me as it does to your mother.”

Well, none of us really believe that one, Brian.

The exam results ‘rave’

(well, it was a party. Just that. A normal party. No rave intended …)

Natalie sounds tiddly from the off. She’s on the vodka. Well, she needs to celebrate. She got four As!

[Rosa] “She’s really going for it tonight isn’t she, I didn’t know she was such a party girl.”

Jamie’s not going to Uni

Jamie didn’t phone Kathy to tell her what he’d got. She had to leave a begging message.

He’d earlier told Rosa that he got one A, couple of B, and a C. Which he was worried about telling Kathy about. Those grades sounded fine to me.

But when Jamie gets home, he tells Kathy the truth. He got two Cs, a D and an E.

[Jamie] “They're rubbish grades, I totally mucked it.”

Kathy’s shocked, but manages to pull it together to say that at least he still has his A2s to do (whatever they are). He can still get to Uni.

[Jamie] “Uni? And end up with a 40 grand overdraft. Why?”

[Kathy] “You know why. To give yourself a decent start in life.”

But Jamie doesn’t agree. He’s not going to sit anymore exams. He’s not going back to College. And he’s most definitely not going to Uni.

Well, Mike is looking for a milkman …

Rosa finally gets her man …

Rosa crashes Natalie’s party, and makes a beeline for Jamie. She even gives him a go on her new scooter.

[Rosa] “If you’re really good, maybe I’ll give you another ride sometime.”

Rosa’s an odd one. She fancies Jamie, so she starts talking to him about his girlfriend:

[Rosa] “She’s got so much going for her. She’s cool, and she’s clever and she’s attractive. And she’s got you.”

Rosa than makes Jamie come up close to her so that she can ‘sort his hair’. It sounds like Rosa is just about to kiss him when Natalie catches sight …

[Natalie] “I saw you Jamie … shut up you tramp, what are you doing here anyway. It’s my party! … Don’t touch me, there’s nothing you can say to me now. I just want you to go away. Hear me, go on, now … we’re finished Jamie. It’s over.”

Oops.

If that’s what Rosa wanted to happen, job done!

Friday, 17 August 2012

Ambridge: where bisexuality is as exciting as community games: Tues 14.08.12

The Archers Tuesday 14th August 2012

Ed can’t sleep for that sick cow
Emma helps Pip and her lamb
David and Ruth have time in bed
Jamie and Kathy return
They’re still gossiping about Harry
Party at Natalie’s
Emma even brings wire straighteners
Kathy prefers Rosa?

Ed can’t sleep for that sick cow

I was about to get all soppy over Ed being soppy, but turns out he’s just worried about the extra vet bills.

He’s already had to cut his prices, because Mike’s had to cut his prices.

And the cow is later confirmed to have Summer mastitis

[Ed] “It’s bad. She’s lost one quarter, could lose the calf.”

(I admit I have little to no idea what Ed’s on about, apart from the calf bit)

Ed reckons he and Emma would need to reign in their spending even further.

[Emma] “But, how? I’m doing everything I can. I don’t buy nothing we don’t need. I spend ages in the supermarket trying to find deals, and online.”

But the kids are growing, so there’s only so much she cannot have to buy.

(erm, go get a job Emma?)

Emma helps Pip and her lamb

Ed can’t sleep, Emma’s up anyway getting a glass of water. She then spots someone outside in Brookfield’s yard … but it’s only Pip.

[Ed] “As long as the barn’s not on fire again!”

Pip’s managing the farm while David and Ruth are on their (one night) holiday. Ed reckons he should go out and check on her, but Emma offers.

(blimey!)

[Pip] “I woke up and heard one of the lambs making a fuss.”

It sounds like the lamb is in the orchard, which it shouldn’t be. It should be in the field with the rest of them (and its mum).

[Emma] “Is that torch working? Let’s go and have a look shall we?”

(double blimey!!)

[Pip] “I’m sorry, you must think I’m mad, getting up in the middle of the night.”

But she was right to check. The lamb had got through the fence, got itself twisted in the wire, and seems to have been in that state for a while. She blames herself for not having checked more careful earlier on.

Pip’s getting into a wee bit of a flap, so Emma steps in and temporarily sorts the fence so that no more can escape.

(triple blimey!!!)

David and Ruth have time in bed

David and Ruth wake up slowly and naturally. It’s almost 9am.

[David] “That must be close to your all time record!”

[Ruth] “I’ve been lying here thinking, there’s nothing I’ve got to do today.”

And with there being no stirring from Ben’s, Ruth sounds a bit fruity … she certainly doesn’t want David to call Pip to check she’s okay:

[Ruth] “Do you want to make me very, very cross … so put your phone down now, and come back to bed!”

Oh the horror!

Mind you, David and Ruth later turned up at Brookfield. They were due back after milking. So, Ruth did have stuff to do?

But let’s not split hairs.

Though it was only a night away, and they did have to do the milking later, David and Ruth had a “fab” time.

[Ruth] “Wonderful, fantastic, the best time ever!”

Jamie and Kathy return

It starts off well.

Jamie’s got some more work through Mike. This time clearing scrub up at Longwood.

Kathy says he’s just happy he’s out of bed before noon.

Then Kathy turns up at Jamie’s cricket match.

[Kathy] “That really, turned, did it?”

Kathy seems to irritate him by going on (and on) about how Rosa.

And tops it off with suggesting she could take him to College to get him exam results.

Jamie snaps at her. Just like old times.

He wants her to shut up about his exam results, and not come anywhere near his College.

Feeling nervous about the results, are we Jamie?

They’re still gossiping about Harry

[Kathy] “Still, it's filled a gap after the excitement of the community games … Susan was on overdrive, I’d love to have been a fly on the wall when she found out … I feel a bit sad for Fallon though, didn’t she have a thing about Harry?”

Is there anything worse than pity?

Party at Natalie’s

For the exam results celebrations.

That’ll be the one Rosa was trying to find, to then crash.

On Natalie will be pleased about that.

Emma even brings wire straighteners

(quadruple blimey!!!!)

What on earth is wrong with Emma?

I can see why she helped Pip there and then in the night time, but she made a special trip back during the day to bring Pip some wire straighteners (Pip has no ken about where David would keep his).

And, she offered to come back later and lend a hand.

But wait … there’s more!

Emma had even put Keira to Susan’s so that she could be clear to help Pip.

Thinking of others. Even planning to think of others.

I’m deeply shocked!

[Pip] “That is one brilliant bit of fencing”

Well if this is the new Emma, I’m all for it!

Amazing what an uncle nearly burning your son to death can do.

Kathy prefers Rosa?

Kathy seems to be Rosa’s biggest fan.

She’s very impressed by Rosa buying her scooter, getting her training today, and mobile already.

[Kathy] “She doesn’t mess around, does she … they’ll be no stopping her now. She’ll be buzzing around all over the place!”

[Jamie] “Like a wasp, you mean.”

[Kathy] “Hey, she’s got style, and she looks good on that bike.”

Now, if I didn’t know Kathy, I would have thought she was being a bit letchy …

… maybe she’d prefer Rosa over Natalie to be her daughter-in-law (eventually).