It's been tough to feel cheerful or positive after the results of the General Election here in the UK last week. I am shocked at the Conservative victory, and very disappointed.
Another 5 years of austerity measures, and hitting the most vulnerable people hardest in order to pay for them... It makes me want to weep. Sheffield remained almost exclusively a Labour stronghold, but I was appalled to discover that in our constituency, UKIP polled in second place. I don't know what to say about that.
In an effort to shake off the gloom yesterday, we joined a group of friends and neighbours who gathered at my mate Claire's invitation to celebrate her 50th birthday.
A hearty lunch at Grindleford Cafe was followed by a walk through some beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
Given that most of the people we know are left-leaning and many work in the public sector, there was inevitably plenty of post-election analysis and angst.
Still, there were gorgeous views, plenty of fresh air, and the rain held off, so we could be thankful for that at least.
I was dawdling at the back, taking photos. I like this stretch along the river Derwent.
Claire had booked the outdoor swimming pool at Hathersage.
The pool is heated but it got decidedly chilly as the clouds gathered overhead. I'm far too much of a wimp to swim in those conditions; I chatted with some fellow fair-weather-only swimmers over a hot drink instead.
Selfies at the station.
Top, 1960s tapestry and vinyl bag, shoes, bangles and necklace - charity shopped
1970s skirt- Ebay
Red wooden bangle - gift from Tania
Grim-faced smile - blame the people who voted Tory
At the prospect of the next five years, I know I'm not alone in thinking of Neil Kinnock's words in 1983, anticipating the effects of a victory for Margaret Thatcher:
I warn you not to be ordinary. I warn you not to be young. I warn you not to fall ill. I warn you not to get old.
xxxx
63 comments:
Do you know we have been talking about that quote too. It is so sad for the UK that the Tories are in again. I can only imagine what the next few years are going to bring. If any one has any sense it will be a revolution. I am so proud to be Scottish though and hope that the SNP will be able to moderate the Government somewhat, or at least get their point across. Anyway, enough politics for now. I do like a good rant. Your day out looked amazing. That scenery. And your friends are very brave swimming open-air. I am cold looking at it. Fabulous maxi skirt. You really suit that outfit. Xxxx
Check out my bad self, first! :) xx
I'm too gutted to even try to start to think about what has just happened.
Thank the Lord for blogs like yours that bring a little ray of sunshine.
Lovely photos that lifted my spirits x
Oh, such beautiful countryside! I love all your photographs. You have an adorable family.
Beautiful bright reds! Your shoes are perfect! :)
Yes, I think we were all stunned into silence at the election results.
Have a wonderful week xx
Ah, so it's me who is to blame then? We obviously don't share the same politics and I'm not going to apologize for that. I am sorry you are feeling gloomy though and hope that later this week there may be some news to lift your spirits. Those swimmers are braver than me! xx
About the only thing I know about your politics is that the winner gets to live at 10 Downing Street, but I'm sorry you're disappointed in the result. Though that beautiful countryside would distract anyone from anything for at least a little while ... it's stunning.
Swimming in the cold? No thanks. It's got to hit 40 degrees before I even think about it and even then I usually don't ... such a bother getting wet ;0)
xx
I'm absolutely gutted they are back in, the ramifications are terrifying - the polling stations were packed too, I was feeling so hopeful, I'm just so, so pissed off - on a brighter note, a day celebrating a good friends birthday is a wonderful thing, especially in such stunning countryside. The pool is fab! kids never feel the cold, do they? excellent pics, you are a vision of gorgeous-ness (it's a new word, if Shakespeare could invent them, so can I! I'll take advantage of this democracy while I still can!) x x x
Too well do I know that feeling (after the elections of both U.S. presidents Bush, and before them Reagan). It is dreadful and one feels one can only get drunk.
Take solace in your beautiful country, your like-minded friends, your darling family, your wonderful style and, of course, strong drink. We humans often don't do ourselves any favors in our collective decisions, but that's the way it goes, I reckon. Hugs!
I'll second everything Virginia said.
I don't quite understand the desire to kick people when they're down, and then be congratulatory about it (The way they celebrate how many people have been stripped of benefits as though it were some sort of achievement). The last 35 years or so have made it almost fashionable to be heartless, and I don't see a change anytime soon. Shit, I'm not helping, am I?
If I were there I'd drag you out for a drink, but I'll offer you a virtual one anyway.
Thinking about politics in general is pretty depressing. The best we can do is dig in, be fabulous, and make a difference in small ways. (That sounded good. Next thing I'll be writing twee gratitudes. Where's that bucket?)
I love the idea of a pool rental for a celebration, but the idea of sipping hot drinks when it's chilly even better.
Gorgeous outfit, Curtise. Beautiful countryside.
It is difficult to be sad when you are surrounded by such beautiful countryside and flanked by loving waterlogged kids while wearing a banging maxi but I know how you feel. Just like Virginia and Goodie I remember sitting on a bluff looking out over the gorgeous Pacific right after Bush was re-elected and thinking "Shit. We are Screwed." Luckily you are surrounded by like minded folks and you are looking lovely, my Dear.
Sorry to hear about your elections, we have ours coming up in 2016 and I'm scared we'll get a republican again! I love that smocked top you are wearing! :)
Public sector workers are we too and I there has been a fair amount of doom and gloom about the result here. We very sadly removed our vote Labour poster from the window on Saturday!
As to the skirt, it's fab and I love the ways your friend decided to celebrate her birthday.
Lisa x
Gutted here as well, love. Can't even tink of what they have lined up for us now thety are back in. It's going to be a tough five years for the poor, and vulnerable. I could weep.
Anyway, it's as well tere was a celebration to be had and you look as fab as ever,and look at that countryside. How beautiful.
We'll have to have a get together over the summer to cheer ousrselves up and remind ourselve sthat it's not all bad.
Loves ya.
xxxxxx
Don't be too downhearted about the UKIP vote. My husband's Lib Dem; he was dismayed by how many people who voted LD last time voted UKIP this time, but I honestly don't believe those people all sat down and embraced UKIP, I just believe they wanted a change that none of the major parties have shown any signs of delivering in the recent parliaments.
I didn't get tearful, I got angry, and now I'm getting active... (Active in the donating, contributing, positive sense; I don't do protest marches!)
I'm another one you can blame your grim-faced smile on. For the first time ever (and I'm almost 55), I voted Conservative. It was not an easy decision but the local Conservative MP has been stellar over the past five years. He is a local man, has worked tirelessly for local issues and really understands this constituencies needs and concerns.
My natural inclination is to vote Lib Dem (having given up voting Labour during the reign of 'King' Blair) but as our Lib Dem candidate lived miles and miles away - as did our Labour candidate - it had to be the local man who has done so well by us in the previous five years who got my vote.
Am still disappointed that it's not some sort of a coalition government though.
Sorry you didn't get the result you wanted in your election. Seems to me all politicians are the same. On a brighter note tho, you look AMAZING!!! And all your beautiful photos gave me the warm fuzzies, so thank you! Any news on the job??? My fingers are still crossed.
Beautiful countryside pictures! I love the stone walls and romping lambs.
You look amazing, as always, and the kids look like they enjoyed the pool.
I share your pain - it's enough to make one consider emigrating. At least they were vaguely held in check by the lib dems until now. Now they've got free reign.
Wonderful photos of Derbyshire - you live in a gorgeous part of the world. Let's pray the Tories don't frack it to death!
Agree with all you've said, Curtise. Can't bear to talk about the election result. Keep blogging and being fabulous! The way we live our daily lives does make a difference. Compassion and fun and the small things in life X
Love your blog. I so enjoy seeing the pictures from your adventures. The countryside is so lovely. Thank you!
I must say I often fail to keep up with politics. Every time someone new comes to power they make so many promises that never come to fruition. I've given up thinking anyone could make positive change.
Rather pessimistic I know.
I love the photos of the red and green.
I had shoes just like yours that I gave away and I truly do regret that.
bisous
Suzanne
on the brighter side: Sunday was Mother's Day in the USA, so Happy Mother's Day to you!
over here i too wonder who is voting for that capitalist and fascist parties..... because personally i only know people with left tendencies. but then - "we" are a minority! people will never learn and always follow the loudest piper with the simplest melody.
in nicer things: your outfit is something special today - that skirt length is unusual and very chic!!! especially with the cute shoes! and your trip to the countryside and pool looks gorgeous, claire is a generous woman and know how to celebrate!
hug you! xxxx
Isn't it depressing? I couldn't believe my eyes when I turned the TV on on Friday morning. I don't know a single Tory voter. I was convinced they were going to get booted out. Thank goodness Walsall remains Labour and UKIP got nowhere.
On a brighter note the outfit is glorious. I'm glad it isn't just me raiding the wardrobe for something red to wear. The print on that skirt is just gorgeous.
Derbyshire looks mighty fine but I don't blame you for not joining the kids and taking a dip. Brrrr!
We need to find some of those old badges "Don't blame me I voted Labour" for when the shit hits the fan.
Love you! xxxxxx
I've always voted Lib Dem but I voted Labour this time, thinking my vote could make a difference and as our Labour guy is the only local, plus I did think labour policies best. Never voted Tory. Sad times.
Glad you are all wonderful and red-plus gorgeous countryside. Can't believe you said no to the pool x
It's grim, isn't it. But *you* don't look grim and neither does that pretty countryside!
i'm sorry for you, dear english friends, because all those austerity measures are making our lives worse everyday!, health, education and rights are becoming something you need to pay for! (after paying your taxes, so you pay for them twice!!)
Anyway, you look gorgeus and colorful and all those beautiful landscapes and funny children put a smile on my face!
besos
It was a total shock I agree. I've tried not to get bogged down with the despair of it all - looking back at history has always shown me that although times change constantly, nothing seems to change at all. Fingers crossed for all our futures. I LOVE Hathersage pool. you should have jumped in you wimp! and Grindleford cafe does the most amazing chip butties!! xxx
It's not very easy to find a person with interests further from politics than me and my interests, but I do feel for you! As I mentioned to Vix, my country seems to be stuck in bad choices, and well, it's their choice - the majority choice. I have a feeling that majority is just rarely right... But I hope the good times with good friends heal you a little. The nature looks glorious. And as for politics.. it all will pass. People will learn to think and make better choices. We all need time to learn. You look gorgeous as always, my dear! Cheers to you! xxx
Ah. Damp, happy children and a mom who looks very good in spite of the disappointing elections. I feel your pain, Gorgeous Curtise. You know I love you in darks, but wish it wasn't mourning.
I've been under my rock due to similar causes, in part. Things can get very ugly in the conservative southern US, and scary, and I am always astonished at how far people will go to sustain the shame of inequality on every level.
We've just got full BBC News here (!!!) and it was my first time really getting blow by blow coverage of your elections this time. We're surprised as well, and as with our elections, Dan's sociologist soul is scandalized at how wrong they got the polling.
But you have my sympathy ... austerity sucks in heartbreaking ways for those who should least be subjected to it.
I made the horrid mistake of allowing myself to be drawn into making a staunch political defense of our recent health care reforms, and ended up with a nasty old fart declaring that Dan and I didn't deserve health care if we had trouble affording it. I just get so pissed at the ignorance I can't stand it.
I'd crawl back out from under my rock, but I'm not quite ready to force a smile just yet.
Thank you for your message. I have emailed you. We live in a Tory stronghold & never vote for them but they always get in. Very worrying about UKIP's figures.
I shall enjoy looking at your Blog from now on & if I don't hear from you RE the interview the very best of luck !
My understanding of the UK voting scheme is apparently even less sound than my comprehension of the rules of cricket. What amazes me is the awful inaccuracy of the media pollsters! Here in the States one sees a blurring of the distinction between reporting facts and writing op-ed coverage. And when writers spin tales told by ideologues...all Kinnock's warnings apply. I dread 2016.
The dainty floral scale of today's featured ensemble is enchanting, Curtise! The bag and the skirt echo Olde World Polish elegance updated with the ruched bodice of the top. As for the reds, my late mother once explained to me that she wore Elizabeth Arden's Victory Red lipstick during WWII as an act of patriotism. Suspect something similar is happening here -- your choices are very bright and beautiful!
Politics ... one does wonder how people think - ore dont think while they vote . In Sweden the racist party (facist undercover) are growing . Sadly .
Love your pics , so beatiful !
xxx
O, such lovely countryside! Fecking gloriarse!
Jaysus, the Conservatives are killing it all over the world. We've been suffering some right tossers these last years. It's a nightmare come true. Real bummed for you!
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXLove!
What a perfectly splendid countryside spot! It looks lovely. I would be quite happy with a wander around there.
It's going to be an interesting time over the next few years, that's for sure!
x
We've had a weird election here in Alberta (the province next to mine), where it's gone heavily small "c" conservative.
Looking lovely, Curtise! Ah, all that gorgeous landscape makes me want to frolic in the grass!
So upset for you over the election over there... Gearing up to take on the Right wingers over here soon and I am anxious!
I don't get it. My entire facebook news feed folk were shocked and gutted (proud to know them all) so who the heck voted Tory? Are they too ashamed to celebrate? All we've had is protests, shock and disappointment. Some victory...We'll get the bastards out next time.
The Derbyshire countryside is stunning. We do have some things to be proud of in our country. xxxx
How sad to learn the result of your election :-( The worst is UKIP, I can't figure out how so many people can fall for it? I'm afraid it's a general tendency all over Europe. Anyway, at next the election it could be time for Mr Kinnock's son as a Prime Minister - the husband of our Prime Minister, how strange is that?
You do look great, in spite of the depressing circumstances. The top fits you beautifully, and I do like it even though it's black :-) Your children are so cute (don't tell them, they surely hate being cute at their age!), and the countryside around you is always a delight to see photos of!
My deepest condolences. I was shocked too in some ways, though it seemed all the polls were predicting it. On the bright side, you look fabulous-so sleek and chic and bright and fun. If you are going to be miserable, you may as well look amazing while doing it. It's a tough call which is more gorgeous-you or the countryside!
It has to be a heatwave for me to get into a pool.
xoxo
Stunning photos as usual. Gorgeous countryside.
So sad our world is full of conservative governments at the moment. Look at Australia! Cringe.
But you are a vibrant burst of sunshine amongst all the angst! :-D
The political atmosphere in Europe does not feel good but it is fortunate that you bring color to your region.
Very interesting post! You have a very interesting blog!
Would you like us to follow eachother on GFC and keep in touch?
xo from Italy,
Sonia Verardo
http://www.trenchcollection.com/
Lovely to see photos of the Derbyshire countryside as I don't know when I will get the chance to come back for a visit. I love swimming in the open air so your day out sounds pretty much my perfect day. xx
Politics can be a real downer. So much corruption and greed while the rich get richer, etc..good thing we still have choices in our daily lives. Like freely enjoying a day with friends to keep the mind off how the world runs. I'm not looking forward to a more conservative turn with our presidential changes I fear coming.
Great post. Great quote. I feel your pain xxx
Firstly lovely outfit! And secondly, even I felt so disappointed by the UK election result. I fear for the poor & the disabled, just as I do here. We're headed in a similar direction, & I honestly cry tears when the Libs get in because I know what that means to those less well off. Bleeding heart leftie I am! Xx
I dread to think what the next five years are going to bring. I know it won't be good. Just too depressing. Derbyshire is glorious and this shows our country at its green best. Let's just keep remembering to sign petitions every time those shysters try to sell it off sneakily. It's lovely to see you and the kids out having a great time. We need something to make us smile! Xxxxx
Such beautiful country side and a beautiful outfit xo
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