Monday 5 January 2015

Prosthetics & Pom Poms



Nine years ago today my life changed forever. I went into hospital and, a week later, came out with a brand new hip



Since then I've carried this card, which means that when my titanium femur triggers off the alarms I can placate the security guards. If that doesn't work, which is pretty often, after all I'm not what people generally expect hip replacement patients to look like, I simply hitch up my skirt and show them my 6 inch scar. (I always remember to wear a decent pair of knickers when I fly). 


People often talk of invisible illnesses and how frustrating it is that no-one believes they're ill. Whilst it must be annoying , my problem was quite the opposite. For most of my adult life the endless pity drove me mad, I bloody hated it. Strangers stopped their cars to offer me lifts and people old enough to be my grandparents would insist on carrying my shopping home for me or give up their seats on public transport. Far too often I'd overhear She's such an attractive girl, what a shame about that terrible limp. Being the centre of attention isn't any fun if it's your disability, rather than you, in the spotlight.


My arthritis plays up when it's cold so, between Boxing Day and New Year's Day, I indulged in a bit of pom pom therapy and made this, a winter alternative to a feather boa. Creativity is far more effective (and better for your liver) than popping pills.


I used Xmas cards as templates. The wool was a combination of charity shop finds and Poundland deals. 

Wearing: Annacat leatherette waistcoat (Vintage Village Clothing, Stockport), 1970s Art Nouveau print maxi (Second To None, Walsall), velvet boots (Office sale, 2012,  pom pom boa (me!)

Ta-dah! Everything's better with pom poms.....


Including the mantelpiece in the dining room. These pom poms are from Poundland*, strung on fishing wire.

*No, this isn't a sponsored post. I spent £3 of my own money!
Wearing: Vintage Kriss of San Francisco patchwork maxi & Indian pom pom head-dress (Krista-licious), 1980s suede boots, 1970s suede jacket (vintage kilo sale)
Bloody hell, looking at these photos I don't half need a tan, I look like the undead. Never mind, just over a week to go until I get some much needed Goan sunshine. 

Glad you enjoyed the New Year video but I've gotta set you straight, half of those records were mine! 

See you soon.

76 comments:

  1. loVE all of the pom poms.

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  2. Look at all the pom poms! They look fab as decorations but also as part of your outfit. Love!

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  3. Ooh do love a pom pom!
    Happy New Year Vix, hope it's a happy and healthy one for you. And I'm already jealous of the Goa adventure. :)
    x

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  4. Good pom pom situation! Kind of weird people don't believe you about the hip---who the fuck makes that shit up? Very into the platform velvet boots!

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  5. you were so very young to have hip replacement, the pom poms are just the ticket to brighten things up! I was wondering when you leave on your vacation, you must be looking forward to it!I hope you take lots of photos! I love that suede jacket, I had one just like it, I was 16 in 1972, mine was a light burgundy color.

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  6. You are so creative!

    http://www.delabellesbeautyblog.com

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  7. The art nouveau maxi print calls out for a pom pom boa! No doubt your colorful ensemble was as welcome a relief from others' winter drabs on the streets of Walsall as a Cardinal is at a bird feeder favored by sparrows.

    How do you manage to keep the cats off the pom poms?! Mine would have come up (excuse the expression) with a new variation on the dreaded holiday "tinsel tummy".

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  8. Understanding and knowing what you go through with your hip lovely I think if I remember right that's what got us both talking a few years ago :-) Loving the pom poms and feeling dead jealous that you will soon be jetting off again to warmer weather I so wish I could to, but by heck you deserve it after the busy few months you have had :-) Hugs dee xxx

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  9. Oh I love a good pom pom session- nothing is better for cheering yourself up in the depths of January! I love your pom pom boa, I have a great one that a kind friend found in her cupboard and sent me. So excited to see all your pictures of Goa! XX

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  10. It may be cold where you are, but it sure isn't raining. It's so clear and bright, or maybe it's just you! Or is it the pom-pom magic...
    The new year's day video was to die for. A little something to live us with during your time away.

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  11. Those pom poms are the best, I used to love them and had a pom pom chandelier when I was younger. Happy New Year-- vibrant & colourful as always Vix! x

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  12. I have fibromyalgia and most people who know me don't even know I have it - until they get to know me really well. I hate taking medication for it and have refused all prescriptions - they just make me gain weight and have tons of terrible side effects. I self medicate when needed but I really feel no one needs to be on medication unless they are dying - and my disease certainly won't kill me. You sure changed the way people looked at you lol :) and by the way - we all look like ghosts this time of year.

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  13. oh even your hip is hip..... feel like jumping on a plane to go vist my friend in southern Goa myself today..... happy hippy new year my darling!!x

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  14. My best friend's sister had to have a hip replacement in her late 20s after a repair job on a broken leg was botched, she sites all the same problems as you. People just don't expect attractive young ladies to limp or walk with sticks, or to set of alarms!

    Your pompoms are ace (I had a bit of a thing for those big paper ones last year)

    I hadn't noticed it until you pointed it out but you are right, carry on and at this rate you will be as pale as me!! :-D

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  15. sending lots of healing vibes in your direction!!!!!
    .....and the rest will do the sun of india!
    love your pompoms, so colorful! going creative is the best therapy.
    the art nouveau maxi is beautiful!
    xxxxxxxx

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  16. I would kill for the 1970s Art Nouveau print maxi, what a lovely dress. I also love pom pons but haven't made any for years!

    Happy ninth birthday for your hip - comfy knicks for the security folk!!!

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  17. I love the pom poms! I might have to pinch your idea and make a pom pom garland myself, yours looks lovely on the fireplace.

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  18. Happy hipiversary!
    Have fun in India and I love those pom poms, I used to love making them as a child xxx

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  19. You are so adorable - and admirable, Vix! Your pom poms are fantastic - on you or in your home, such a fun touch! Looking at you is a therapy all by itself, rays of sun in the gray winter morning!

    Thank you for sharing your thoughts about my vintage finds - I really appreciate! We had such a good fun with those dresses, and I can see how it can become a lifelong passion. :)

    Much love xxxxxx

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  20. Love ur attitude(love love poms poms:)& resourcful nature! X

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  21. All right, now you've got me intrigued by pom-poms! You look so clever and colorful, I can understand folks pulling over to give you a ride, not because of the limp, ha ha. Invisible or visible, challenges by our disabilities can be tricky. Again I am so smitten with your constant message to be yourself, and to be independent of herd mentality. Happy 2015, sweet Vix.

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  22. Your pom poms are perfect. That sun will soon soothe your arthritis.
    Green suede jacket with purple suede boots - my idea of heaven!!
    x

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  23. I love pompoms too!!! <3
    Can't wait to see your Goa pictures!! :)

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  24. that must have been hell living with that bad hip. so glad you are good as new! love those pom pom's and thanks for setting me straight on the records! x

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  25. Hello pom pom queen, yeahhhhhhhhhh definitely better to get creative. I always do.
    Good of you to go to your dear Goa.
    XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

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  26. Glad the hip op has gone well. And loving the pom poms. My son got a pom pom maker for Christmas. I wonder if I can persuade him to make me something similar! x

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  27. Oh my gosh! That Art Nouveau print dress is seriously perfect, I love it! You look absolutely stunning, as always.

    I love that Jon was showing off your vinyl too :D

    Awesome pompom boa! xx

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  28. Hail fellow "hipster!" I had mine done 7 years ago almost to the day. Best thing I've ever done!! They stopped giving out the cards here; now I just get the pat-down at airports.

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  29. It's typical of your no-nonsense approach that you would deal with anyone who doesn't accept your hipster card by flashing your scar! It amazes me that anyone feels it's their place to comment, aloud, within earshot, about someone else's appearance, disability or not. So bloody rude. It happens sometimes with Nina, and it's all I can do to be civil in response.
    But let's talk about something happier than the rudeness of strangers - pom poms! Love your boas/scarves/garlands, it's hard not to smile when faced with pom poms! Ha, are you SURE you haven't got a sponsor deal going on with Poundland? Vix - the Voice of Poundland, it's got a ring to it!
    Both maxis are divine, I adore the Annacat waistcoat and suede jacket, and get away with you, you never look pasty - you radiate good vibes all year round, darling!
    Not long till you're setting off the alarms at the airport and flashing your pants - love you, but oh I will miss you! xxx

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  30. If there's any consolation about the limp, I was driven mad as a child by the "Are you cross-eyed?" comments I got from children. I love the fact your hip has a passport- that's like celeb-status!!!

    Do you know, I am obsessed with pompoms recently.I saw an idea for making a pompom rug in a Craft magazine I bought for the freebie and now I really want to learn how to make them! WHAT a good idea to make a scarf
    xx
    By the way, I have 5 (or possibly 6) gold mirrored baubles do you want them!?

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  31. love the pom poms!
    what a lovely colourful look!

    I totally agree with you that creativity is a lot better than popping pills...my health isn't that great and I often find comfort in art. When one has a chronic illness of any kind, pills are never a solution...we just must to learn how to endure the pain.

    http://modaodaradosti.blogspot.com/

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  32. Everything *is* better with pom-poms, agreed. And they are much better for the liver. I am sorry you've had to deal with chronic pain, but you are the absolute opposite of a whiner! Your approach to life always makes me happy. xox

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  33. Pom pom therapy? Good GAWD, Vix, WHAT ARE YOU THINKING?! You're going to put all of those do-gooders out of business!! Then what a sorry state we'd be in. Haha.
    Yes, invisible pain/illness is hard to convey to non-believers. It's a good(?) thing you have evidence.
    If you are the undead, what does that make me?! GAAAA.

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  34. Both outfits are gorgeous, all the lovely colors! And the pom poms, oh yes! I made so many over the holidays, that my had hurt from all the cutting! :)

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  35. Darlin' Vix! You're the Bionic Woman!!! *cue sound effects*

    That's the ticket - I need more pom poms in my life. Thanks!!

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  36. Loved the New Years party video. And most of those records are mine! Thanks to the Tower Records import bins.

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  37. Ha ha! Jon was flaunting your stash!

    My Mom has two metal knees and is thinking about doing both her shoulders. Arthritis is a HORRIBLE illness. I can only send you healing vibes your way.

    I love making pom poms. I especially love the necklace with them.

    bisous
    Suzanne

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  38. Pom Pom therapy. Oh my. I do need some of that. You are pretty good evidence that it works. And you don't look undead, you look like a girl about to embark on a vacay! Whoop whoop!

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  39. My hubby is scheduled for his double knee replacement next month. People ask me how old he is and they don't realize that for many, it's not the age, it's the mileage or what they were born with. Now I don't think he'll be willing to use pom-pom therapy but he is focused on being back to work in under a month because he doesn't want to take it easy either. I think that is the best mind-set.

    Your "Can Do" attitude has gotten you very far and it's an inspiration!

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  40. Oh my goodness, Vix... you're bionic! And as inspiring as ever... Love the pom poms. -xo

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  41. Fabulous pom poms Vix.

    The thought of you flashing your scar to the airport staff did make me giggle.

    X x

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  42. Pom Poms are the best ever thing to have, and you so know how to make use of them. I love your amazing positive attitude you have for life, thank you. Your tan will be back very soon Vix, Goa is waiting for you.

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  43. That pom pom boa besides looking really pretty adds a flirty touch to your look. Awesome!

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  44. Hahaha! Then I love YOUR record collection ;) I agree, poms poms do make everything better.

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  45. Pom poms really do make everything better!
    How do the security people react when you show them your scar? I'm sure the others on the flight love knowing that someone cool and outgoing will be accompanying them.

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  46. Ok, now you've just started me laughing about the New Years video all over again!

    I can't come near comparing my situation to yours (and my heart goes out to you for it, regardless of whether you want it or not.) but as someone who was limping for the past three years, it is an arduous challenge having a body that doesn't work as it should. And pompoms do appear to be the perfect remedy. I love your boa! And your attitude and outlook on life.

    I'm looking forward to the Goan sunshine too, and I'm not even going! You might run into our friend George somewhere on the beach because he is flying there today. xo

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  47. Loving your colourful outfit Vix. Just what we need at this time of year when the skies are drab. Well, either that or flying off in search of less drab skies.
    I'm surprised you have to carry a card to prove you're hip! Surely anyone can see your hipness at first glance? ;)
    xxx

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  48. Pom-tastic! You can never have enough of those fluffy critters. Husband has arthritis too, but like you refuses to give into it and goes with the 'mind over matter' approach. xxx

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  49. You flashing your drawers in Security would liven up a shift for the blokes...and sadly, I should know.
    Love the pom-pom boa and mantelpiece garland, I think I might have a go. So envious of your Goan trip and the tan you'll come home with. Outstanding frock...(don't think I've seen it before?) and gorgeous groovy waistcoat. xxxx

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  50. Everything is definitely better with pom poms and I love your creation ... I think you should call it a poa :0)
    xx

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  51. Hi Vix, I especially love the outfit with the big pom pom scarf, but they both look great. Well I love your record collection, thanks for setting us straight! :-) haha

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  52. Well, I thought it before, I now know it for sure...you are a look on the bright side girl! All those years of pain...Yikes! It's so true that pain makes us look aged.

    I love your pom pom boa! Great fun!

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  53. I think that you are very right when you say that creativity is key! Loving all those poms poms and that beautiful Annacat waistcoat. Enjoy every bit of your trip to Goa!

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  54. oh yes, everything looks better with colorful pom poms!!! and you look gorgeous!!
    Dear lady, your colorful ensembles are candy for my eyes!! love your jacket and pretty waistcoat!!
    besos & sol

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  55. I love pom poms - I just started making my own a few weeks ago, but I need to keep practising to get them looking anywhere near as gorgeous as yours do! You look lovely! - Tasha xxx

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  56. Oh I do love the Vix no bollocks approach. If you could bottle it, you'd be minted pet.
    People who feel they can comment loudly on people's disabilities and assumed inabilities piss me off no end. There are a fair few types like that in Winchester. A friend of mine has rheumatoid arthritis in her legs and people talk to her like she's an idiot. Drives me mental.

    Everything, including this shite weather is better for pompoms. I found that wool in Poundland too. Loads of lovely colours. I bought a shitload despite the miserable cow next to me saying' It will be rubbish at that price', well, it's not.
    It won't be long before you can flash yer knickers at the airport. Hurrah!
    Loves ya.
    xxxxxxx

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  57. YOU have a very impressive punk rock collection (and some splendid pom poms!) Love the pom boa, and your decision to choose creativity over painkillers.

    I'm sure when you go though security on your way to Goa this year, the guards will be saying "that's the dame who flashes her knickers when she sets off the alarm!"

    There's nothing wrong with being pale (says me, who can't sit in the sun without burning).

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  58. You never fail to delight with your creativity. Pom poms on a manikin, a mantelpiece and especially on you are candy for the spirit.

    Excited for you and your upcoming trip to Goa!

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  59. No one else could ever have a post title like that! Adore the colours and poms poms - they just make me happy! xx

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  60. The world is a better place with Pom poms in it, great projects Vix. Happy New Year. xx

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  61. Yes indeed. Everything IS better with pom poms. But better than pom poms even is the thought of you flashing your knick-knocks at the blokes at the airport. Hahaha! It's like Burton all over again. Bet those security guards live for January. Can't believe how thoughtless some people can be to say such a thing. I love that gorgeous patchwork maxi, it's just so lovely and colourful, and there's the Annacat waistcoat you told us about. It's stunning. As are you, with or without a tan. She's going Goa!! So exciting! Congratulations on nine years with your bionic hip. Xxxxxx

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  62. oPomspoms delight!
    My mother's boyfriend had his 2 hips replaced lately and it changed his life
    Enjoy India to death and think of me it's friggin -30 here!

    Love

    Arianex

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  63. Love the pom pom boa , its very pretty and the 70s dress from second to none , hope you have a great holiday x

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  64. Pom pom pom pom I can hear the drum over here in Oz! Oh, sorry, wrong pom pom. Seeing all your creations reminds me of the time as a bored teenager when my friend and I made the biggest pom pom we could. It ended up the size of a cushion! Now skidaddle and take your poor achey self off to the Goan sun! Hugs, JJ

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  65. my dad had a metal plate in his arm and used to have to go through the same malarkey every time we went through metal detectors. no special card though, just a whopping great scar on his arm. how wonderful is Goa going to be! im excited for you!

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  66. Love love love your high hair!

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  67. Ah, the joys of airport security scanners when one is filled discreetly with pieces of titanium!! I'm inspired by your talk of whipping up your skirt to reveal your scar and think I will adopt something similar with a scoop/low-backed top I can yank down from behind.

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  68. Oh Vix, I do love you! Its a joy to read your post this morning and see you! I am thinking of making a few pom poms myself after seeing your pompom boa, what a great way to use wool and a perfect compliment to your fab skirt. Patchwork is also on my to do list. I have been saving polyester scraps. However, your patchwork skirt is out of this world amazing and i bet it coordinates with so many things. Loving the big hair too. xxxxx

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  69. That green jacket and patchwork skirt are simply sublime. I must admit a benefit of having an invisible illness is the fact that I can pass as 'normal', so I only need to divulge the truth to those I choose. But it means I sometimes feel like an imposter on both sides. Xx

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  70. I have an invisible illness and it sucks - although when I am in a lot of pain, people who know me can kind of tell as I don't look good I think that the pity from the people who do know is the worst thing. Nothing makes me want to punch someone in the face more than being told "I don't know how you do it" (because I have an option right?) or the worst "It must be so hard for you" (obviously it is). All I want is some space when I need it and understanding that's not in the form of a pity fest. Anyways onto happier things like the pom pom scarf! It's awesome!!I used to make pom poms a lot when I was a kid and I've noticed lately and seen that there are a lot of pom pom garlands around maybe I should pick up some cheap wool and make some. Also I am loving that skirt Vix - its amazing xoxo

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  71. It's fascinating to me, the rights people think they have when it comes to comments.....if it doesn't come up in conversation, I will never refer to anything like a limp, or whatever. I have a paraplegic friend who has been in a chair for 20 years, and she still finds people are more interested in how she came to be a paraplegic than her creative work (she's a dancer and performance artist when doing interviews. Nuts.
    Anyway, pom poms frigging rock. I do NOT know why I have none in my life!!!! You're a total fox!
    Love HelgaXXX

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  72. ah, I gather you have been having issues with a nasty commenter lately but the comment approval??? Me too, if that is the case. Some people!!!! XXX

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  73. What lovely pom poms. As I am not heading anywhere exotic I will endeavour to get some pom pom therapy, perhaps with a sherry on the side.

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Thanks for reading and for leaving a message. Please don't be anonymous, I'd love it if you left a name (or a nom de plume).

Lots of love, Vix