Tuesday 18 March 2008

Excerpt from the Telegraph

We have become accustomed to treating the disappearance, death or recovery of children as a sort of cathartic public theatre. The long hunt for four-year-old Madeleine McCann has been followed by Shannon's disappearance and the rape and murder of 15-year-old Scarlett Keeling in Goa. Such cases arouse strong public sympathies, certainly, but frequently also the fiercest censure of the families involved at the very moment when they are at their most vulnerable.

In the case of the McCanns, a degree of public anger focused on their decision to leave their three children alone while they went for dinner with friends nearby. In that of Scarlett Keeling, her mother, Fiona MacKeown - who has eight other children and a complicated personal life - has been harshly castigated for permitting her daughter to remain with a 25-year-old male tour guide and his aunt while the rest of the family travelled elsewhere.

A front page in the Daily Mail last week advertised an opinion piece with the tastelessly emphatic headline: "Sorry, but I blame Scarlett Keeling's mother". There was little mention of the culpability of the men who allegedly gave Scarlett drugs, raped her and left her on the beach to die.

In the cases of both Madeleine McCann and Scarlett Keeling, few would question that their parents made a misjudgment for which they have paid a truly terrible price. Yet the nasty fury that has frequently been directed at those unfortunate parents, most often by other parents, suggests something deeper at work. So profound and constant is our fear for our children, that upon hearing of such cases the mind searches furtively for some parental error that rendered them vulnerable: if we don't make the same mistake, the reckoning goes, our own will be all right.

The reality is, of course, that it is impossible both to eliminate all risk from our children's lives and to allow them and us to live sanely and happily. In general, parents are a lot closer to the kind of decisions taken by the McCanns and Ms MacKeown than many would like to admit.

The answer of most parents, I think, to Scarlett's request to stay on in Goa would have been "no". But what of a request from a 16 or 17-year-old girl to go on holiday in Britain with friends from school? Despite the assurances to anxious parents, there may indeed be evenings in clubs and bars, with alcohol and perhaps drugs in the mix. At a certain point, one must have the discussions, deliver the warnings, and then trust enough to let a teenager go.

Both the finely balanced decisions and the fears are so tricky to negotiate that it is tempting to reduce them to simple, knowable dramas: in Shannon's, The Child Lost and Found; in Scarlett's, The Neglectful Mother. A more disturbing truth to face is that the reality of risk, both for them and for us, will always be complicated.

384 comments:

1 – 200 of 384   Newer›   Newest»
melbel said...

Morning.This is really interesting as it highlights that risk assessment is often not a black and white issue, if you are honest.When children are in their teens and flexing their wings,it is often not clearcut and though you draw lines, your child's friends parents,may not.
it is impossible to 100% protect your children and they can be taken from the bath,in a UK case and taken away in a shopping precinct,like Jamie,if you are unlucky.
I personally would not have left my 15 year old,in that way, though it should be the sort of world where bad stuff does not happen.However, I am not going to join any witch hunt against her mother,as my main ire is directed against her murderer.
re Madeleine,when my children were young, we had little money and did everything in a gang.
I do remember one holiday complex,though,walled and geared to families, where nannies walked around,we went to at one time.My children got chickenpox and were unwell,but we probably would have used that facility,for the odd hour,though the children were older,if they had been well
It makes me go cold now..
Re Madeleine, I have never doubted that these children are loved and well cared for and perhaps people could relax their caution,in a group situation, if they felt it was a peaceful upmarket family situation.They were on holiday and what happened is so rare,that it would be almost unthinkable.
Posters in the parallel universe,Alsa's,have thought this was a British cultural,parenting tradition,which I doubt,as stereotypes and acceptance of them,say more about the person believing this.
It is a common sight in hotter countries in EEC to see quite young children playing out,late in the evening,unsupervised and this should be frowned on too,before people start to feel too superior about their culture and parenting practices.
In short, we do the risk assessments and make the decisions we do,but I reserve my anger for the abductor.
I think too, that irrationally,some people may think that the harder they criticise the Mccs,the less likely it will be that bad things happen to them.We used to put our hands on our collars,when young, if we saw an ambulance.
I accidentally strayed on to a website,last night,with a picture of the McCs and a caption that they had lost a child.
No,they did not lose a child. They had a child stolen from her bed.
What guilty person would press the Police to do the very forensic tests, that the Portugese POlice claimed incriminated them ?
It beggars belief and I have never seen this point highlighted by the antis.
Morning all. I have many mountains to climb today, on the domestic front.

Mum21 said...

Good Morning Melbel.
I also thought the Telegraph article showed very clearly the risks involved in ALL parenting. There is no hard and fast rule...neither is there such a thing as a perfect parent.
We also spent many holidays in Spain, Italy and Morocco when our son was small. I have to admit we were amazed to see how many young children of those countries were out playing in the streets ALONE late at night. I also remember my son asking why he was not allowed to do that.
The thing is we are all different...and what feels safe to some parents...does not feel safe to others. As I said, there is no hard and fast rule when bringing up children.
One of the things I have never been able to come to terms with regarding our friend Alsa is....how come it is neglectful and selfish to put children in a creche to enjoy themselves on holiday. But it is ok to have a hired help to look after your children whilst you do other things.
I am not condeming either....but it does make you wonder how some parents minds work.
It is impossible to protect your children 100%...no matter how good a parent you are. Anyone who says differently...is lieing through their teeth.

Gina said...

Mum 21 I think we have discussed this before. You are correct it is normal to see young children playing out in Spain late at night and that is because of the culture. It is the norm to break the day up, especially when it is too hot to do anything. Normally people get up early and do what they have to do, then it is siesta (sleeping from about 2 - 6pm,) then back to playing out etc. I am not saying that every child in Spain is watched over 24/7 but it is norm to see lots of elderly sitting outside their houses in the evening watching the kids play and chatting with each other. The culture is that the family take care of their elderly (there were no old folks homes until us expats flooded the place) and in turn the elderly do what they can to watch over the young ones. However we all know it only takes a second for a child to have an accident or worse

Mum21 said...

Gina. Good Morning to you.
I am sure you realised I was not knocking anyone. All countries have a different way of doing things. But what I was saying is the British have taken a real beating on cetain forums recently...regarding their parenting skills. We, on this blog receive constant abuse and are called child neglect supporters. Which is an out and out lie.
We are called filth..scum...retired highway whores...to name just a few.
When in fact all we are actually doing is supporting the British innocent until proven guilty law.
We also NEVER write something as FACT...when it is hearsay.
We also get the blame everytime an Anonymous writes something nasty on Alsa's blog. I never comment on there at all anymore....and a few that do always use their ID.
I am not blaming you at all...because you are fair minded and polite....and always welcome here.

melbel said...

Morning Mum
I find that the older I get, the less likely I am to point the finger and it surprises me ,that given the risks there are, we mainly muddle through.
It is a contradiction, I agree to castigate others for using creche activities and yet to employ permanent people to nanny in their own lives.
There must be a demand for these holiday facilities, children undoubtedly enjoy them and many people have stressful jobs and combine a bit of me time with enjoyable activities for the children.
Perfect parents are a fiction and we have to let young people grow and develop.
I had a very strong protective working class upbringing and I treasure it.
I was the only one met,at 17, when I was in the 6th form,by dads, from the local dance hall, along with another pal and I was forbidden to go to the only night club.We hadn't phones, cars or mobiles.
My children,mainly had nice pals [when in their teens]who were always one step ahead of us, in terms of going into town and sleepovers.
You try to use your common sense
and hope for the best.
Your avator is very cheeky.
I have only just got onto fairies, being an innocent abroad and inadvertently removed many bookmarks from the computer.
The husband is not best pleased,but will look at it,after work.x

Mum21 said...

Gina. I have just read your's and Isis's comment regarding our reaction to forensics.
Be it the McCann's or Murat....if we were shown forensic evidence against either we would believe it.
But we have not been shown forensic evidence...not once. We do not know the findings of the forensics taken. All we do know is different views by different newspapers of the forensic findings.
So the answer to your comment has to be....if we are ever shown the true results of any forensic evidence on either the McCann's or Murat...we will believe it.

Mum21 said...

Melbel. Like you I also had a fairly strict but very loving upbringing. So did my son.
In fact my son only commented to me the other day that he is applying the same rules to his 14 year old son as my husband and I applied to him. You have to let go a little...give then a little bit of rope...but haul them in if they overstep the mark. You cannot wrap them in cotton wool for the rest of their lives. You can only hope the love and guidance you have given them pays off.

Gina said...

Mum 21, I know you were not knocking anyone, I was just waffling on as usual about nothing of any importance. On a ligher note perhaps if any of you take your kids to Spain and they ask why they cannot play out late you should tell them they can providing they go to bed from 2-6 instead of playing on the beach. That should sort that one out. This cultural thing can sometimes cause misunderstanding and that is why so many Portuguese and Spanish could not understand why the McCanns didn't take their children with them to eat, they would have completely forgotten that the kids would have been tired by this time because they had not been in bed in the afternoon.

Regards your comments about forums. Sorry I have no comment to make on that. I am my own person with my own views and if someone attacks me personally I retaliate as I see fit. I have no time or respect for anyone would cannot put an ID to their post no matter what their views.

As Spain starts Easter tomorrow and all the shops will be closed for days, I had bette get myself into gear and get to the shops otherwise my guest will starve

Mum21 said...

Gina. Have a good Easter. Here it does not start until Friday.
Yes..you better go shopping. we don't want your guests to die of starvation...now do we?
Have a good day.

Gina said...

Mum21 Stuff the forensics I haven't got a bl...dy clue who has what and am long past caring on that score. I just wondered why nothing was reported as found on the windowsill. If I am absolutely honest, and this does sound calleous I know, I am sick to death of the whole damn saga. As much as I hope for a Miracle that Madeleine is alive, safe and unharmed I very much doubt it to be the case and as for the McCanns and all the publicity, spin etc. best I do not go there on this site because you all know my views on that.

Rori Hegarty said...

Mum, my comments re the forensics were not aimed at anyone in particular,however i take your point. Hapy Easter and belated St Patricks day to all here.

melbel said...

ISIS
Beannachtai na Casca agus slainte agus agat.
Cannot find keys for foda,sorry.
Difficult to learn, but beautiful language and people .Slan.

Mum21 said...

Happy Easter Isis.

One thing I have learnt these last few days is you cannot judge a book by its cover.
Take Shannon's parents whilst she was missing. Her mother looked the distraught parent and many felt this was how a mother of a missing child should look. Now it turns out she may not be quite the loving parent people thought she was. On the other hand the McCann's have constantly been knocked for their composure in public. Quite the contrast to Sharron's mother.
It makes you wonder doesn't it?

Rori Hegarty said...

Melbel, hold down the ctrl and alt keys together while typing the letter. Irish would have been my first language growing up hence i write it as i speak which can be disastrous in an exam !!

Rori Hegarty said...

Mum , each parent has different reactions to differing emtions. There is no stereotype or handbook to guide our emotions as parents. I just hope that little Shannon whatever she has been through can be helped to be the caarefree 9 year old that all little 9 year olds should be.

melbel said...

ISIS
Sorry, I left a chunk out,but you will know what I mean.
Like playing the piano,I have been at the beginner stage, for many years.x

Anonymous said...

Hi All,
Mum21 agree that our views are not written in stone, unlike other posters. Given actual forensic evidence to support the view that the Mccann's are guilty of harming Madeleine, I think that we would all be in the front line to condemn them. Not having that actual 'evidence' however does not stop other posters from vilifying the Mccann's. Even if they had 'evidence' to say that the Mccann's were not implicated in any way IMO they would not hold their hands up. Their justification for wild theories and witchhunt lies solely in the Mccann's neglect of their children.

We can see how their views do not change when you look at how they are handling the Shannon Matthews abduction. So sad as it is, whatever we say will not change that.

Anonymous said...

That was a quickie as Jane would say!!

Off to playtennis (ok, I'm only watching!!)

See you all later.

Mandz said...

Morning All...!

You are right Melbel in hot Countries there are young children out late at night unsupervised. My family are Spanish and when we holidayed there every year we were all allowed out late playing because that is what everyone did.

No one can protect their children 100% sadly however we never think the “bad things” are going to happen hence why people choose to leave small ones in bath tubs, people who take their eye off little ones & let go there hand whilst shopping where they usually get lost or sadly in JBulger case abducted. Gosh loads of times out shopping I have seen little ones lost it is not rare. People who drink alcohol in the house at weekends fall into bed drunk take a chance because they might not be able to wake up if there child becomes very unwell or able to drive them to the hospital. It is certainly not black and white and as parents we do what we think is best and sadly like Scarlet’s mum and the McCann’s and others they made a bad judgment however they are flawed just like all of us. As for Maddie the MW complex offered this service of Nannies checking at doors however they never enter the child’s room therefore they are adding to the false sense of security that children are safe and have played a part in the McCann’s decision and “ALL PARENTS” who took up the “service” and the McCann’s were doing that bit more by going in to check.
Like you I will not sit a throw bricks at any parent who has made a bad decision they are the ones who will sadly now live a life of hell without their loved ones and my heart breaks for them. On one had I do think what were you think however I would comfort them than play the high and mighty “I would never dream” etc etc etc…Over the garden fence comments & finger pointers I have no time for people like that no time whatsoever. Getting kicks from other people misery and the press have got a lot to answer for adding to the misery this family and others are going through.

melbel said...

HI and Bye, Helen.
I agree that our views would change, on official confirmation,from official sources,re the forensics.
Until then,let it rest.
Well,have a new grandchild due,any time from now and need to get ahead,as we will be stepping in to look after the other little one.
Morning all.Have a nice day.

Mum21 said...

Gina (My Spanish is not brilliant but I'm having a go)

Puede el brillo del sol para usted sobre Pascua. Tenga un tiempo encantador

melbel said...

Hi Mandz
You coming on,as I was going off.
Thank you for computer help.
I am the new fairy on the block.
Were you born in Scotland ?I didn't realise you had Spanish folks.Good on you.
I thought Jane was Scots, as well,until I checked her DE profile,or maybe she is living in England.
I agree with you re the finger pointing and malice.
My mum was an angel, gentle and she never had a wrong word to say about anyone.I was always taught that if you have no good to say of a person, do not do it.
I have never understood how, based on us knowing so little, if anything,this whole thing has snowballed, so that seemingly, some people have no doubts whatsoever on the Mccs involvement in her disappearance.It baffles me and I expect that once it is resolved, whatever happens, there will be ongoing debate for many years.
Take care,Mandz.I need to sort this tip out and get some food in.x

Mum21 said...

Hi Mandz. I am still out on the M27 looking for Rosie. No sign of her yet. :-)

Mum21 said...

But there is a lot of traffic here this morning
Hope you can see me waving to you all

calcite51 said...

Good morning Melbel, mum21, helenm,. et al...

Hope everyone is well.

Anonymous said...

goood morning guys nice to see you all here

Mum21 2 avatars in one morning....

MELBEL

Your hubbie didn't murder you then re computer stuff going awol hee hee hee

having early lunch again today, just on for 15 minutes or so.

calcite51 said...

Good morning, Jane - hope you are well. I think I've frightened them all off.

Anonymous said...

hi Calite

well done, it'susually me manages to do that..... ;o)))
My computer is behaving oddly today. Just tried to send a photo and it didn't work. Don't know what I am doing wrong herre. Haven't tried it before, so I must be doing it wrong.....Oh dear.

Trust you are well too.....we are fine. Lovely sunny bright day today, cold though but lovely. I can't believe it's Easter almost. Seems only yesterday it was Christmas. Time flies.

Anonymous said...

forgot CALCITE isn't that a new avatar too? I will need to do that too as everyone seems to have new ones. Mum21 has had 2 this morning alone. She's a whizz kid on the computer as well as her motorised zimmer......

Anonymous said...

I will have to leave you as got to do a Gina and go to shops.....

Catch you later guys, just a flying visit....... ;o)))

Mandz said...

Hi All,

Mum I cannot stop laughing at your picture.... you wild thing! If you are still on the road don't tell Rosie she will take half!

calcite51 said...

On and off - trying to get ready for work here. So in case, the system crashes or kicks me off - everyone have a great day.

melbel said...

Hiya all and morning Calcite and Jane.
Just peeping in,but hope weather does not get too snowey, on Thursday.
I left a comment to 2 moaners on DE,to cheer up yesterday,re weather.
I lived for another day,Jane,re the computer.
I always find it helps to act gawmless, in such a situation,which comes easier and easier, as time goes on.
At school,a lowered lip, of remorse and avoiding eye contact,sometimes did the trick.
Peeked on Viv's site, recently, which I said I would not and found Viv,very reasonably telling 2345, that information that she /he had written, re Shannon,should be initially discounted, as it was unlikely to come from an official Police source.
What a double standard, but isn't that a constant theme with many antis?
Nothing else to report.
Why cannot our Police give some sort of statement ?
It is a British kid, when all said and done.Regards.
Jane,when I jokingly said that I would meet you, at the border, I thought you lived in Scotland.I am looping the loop.

Mandz said...

Yes why can't our police report on a British Child who is still missing......?

I honestly believe our police are well aware the McCann’s are NOT involved and I bet they are furious with the PJ case towards this missing child and the McCanns and themselves and our Government.

melbel said...

I AM disgusted to see, that daily mail, are running article on the dreadful CRISTOVAO character, who wrote the recent book on Madeleine and he, himself, is an ex PJ, facing trial over accusations that he tortured a woman to falsely confess, to murdering her child[joana]
In what other country of the world, would that be allowed ?
The man is a charlatan.
Lock him up and throw the key away, please !

Anonymous said...

MELBEL, MANDZ, CALCITE

That book I knew I was never going to 'enjoy' reading. His past in my view should have stopped the Daily Mail publishing an exerpts of it entirely. My opinion of the Daily Mail s now at an all time low I am sorry to say. Not at all happy with them.

I have put it off so long, had a 2nd coffee, but now I have no more excuses, got to g to the shops.....or we won't eat tonight. You can tell I don't want to go, can't you>>>?????

Off......see you later ladies.

Be good!!!!!!

Anonymous said...

tried to change my avatar too, has it worked yet????

Mum21 said...

Hi Melbel.
I am also disgusted at the Daily Mail. But I am even more disgusted at the Portuguese authorities for allowing an accused ex PJ to write a novel on a subject that is still under investigation.
To me it shows the moral standards in Portugal to be the lowest of the low.
When you think about the attacks against the McCann's re the proposed TV documentaries...the interviews etc.....then you witness an ex PJ flaunting the the Portuguese secrecy laws for personal gain...it beggars belief.
I find it hard to believe that Cristovao has written two books for his own personal gain about two missing...and never found young children. He has made nothing but a mockery of them both.
Yes, Melbel...lock him up and throw away the key....and may he rot in hell.

calcite51 said...

I think the book is one of the most disgusting aspect of this whole episode.

I don't understand how anyone can be writing a book on this sad case while the investigation is on-going. IMO - it just does NOT make sense.

Melbel - I didn't realize the writer of the book was an ex-Pj involved in Joana's case. Is that right or am I being obtuse and misunderstanding the whole situation?

melbel said...

Hi Mum
it is extraordinary and makes you wonder what is going on over in that country.Their moral standards, are the pits.Surely, Clarence will seek an injunction, to stop it being published, but crazily, how would a fair trial be possible, in Portugal?
it is cynical and avaricious,beyond belief.
maybe he is expecting a long spell inside and wants a cash cow.
I really feel that Joana's mother could be innocent or a good chance of it,based on these chancers.
The secrecy laws are worse than a joke.I have lost all respect, not just that particular branch of Police,but for the whole pf Portugal.
They do not seem in touch with decent moral standards and acceptable norms.
How dare they and using inside information.
I have to record my second agreement of the day, with Viv, telling 2345, that Shannon's kidnapper cannot necessarily be believed, when in the situation he is in, he is pointing the finger at others,suggesting a ransom,etc.
Pity Viv does not apply her logic across the board and consistently,to all cases

Mum21 said...

Calcite51.
Here is a link about the book and the writer.

http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/news/article-23457708-details/Madeleine+the+novel:+Now+disgraced+police+chief+claims+girl's+body+was+dumped+at+sea+in+new+book/article.do

melbel said...

Hi calcite
Just read Daily Mail online and did not realise before.
I will recheck my facts, on that.

Mum21 said...

Melbel. The trouble with 2345 is she does not know the difference between hearsay and fact.
She is also too fond of stating her thoughts on things to be actual evidence of what happened.
I notice Betty from the DE forum has just attacked her too...and she is an anti.

melbel said...

Hi Calcite
Yes,he was a disgraced boss and former PJ Inspector,on this case.
I knew about the book,but not that he was implicated in little Joana's case.
If that is how they carry on over there,I am truly disgusted and shocked.

melbel said...

Yes, Mum
She /he [cannot imagine a woman being so callous], thinks it is lateral thinking, but it is the opposite.
No insight,whatsoever and very little contact with reality.
I hope she is not in close contact with children. The thought scares me.
Betty will say what she thinks.
There is a passion behind what is being said, though untrue, that sends cyber shivers down me.Drval did the same, supposed mother of twins.
Oh,dear Lord,I pray not.

calcite51 said...

Melbel - you are absolutely right -just read the article. I don't remember having read that little gem - he was an ex-PJ involved in Joana's case.

Don't remember Lady A ever mentioning that either... As a matter of fact when she first mentioned this book on her blog - I asked her if he had received 'inside information' and if yes, then how could this be when there was the secretive laws in cases?

Noticed that it is fictional - I'm beginning to think everything that comes out of Portugal is fictional.

I'm sorry but there is no way, I think this book should have been published during an on-going investigation.

Mandz said...

Who the hell does he think he is.?? Why would anyone want to buy a book from the likes of him? Making money out of a little girl who is missing and accusing the parents and our government?

Let’s hope he get’s put away for a very long time.
I for one will not be buying anything from this suspect nor will I be visiting that Country…

The Daily Mail?????
Cristovao, a former Policia Judiciaria inspector who is facing trial over accusations he tortured a woman into falsely confessing to murdering her child, has admitted his new book is "pro-Portugal" and likely to upset Gerry and Kate McCann.
And he has made it clear in a regular column for a Portuguese newspaper he considers the McCanns are probably responsible for Madeleine's death or disappearance.

Mandz said...

Is this creep for real.....?? Sorry but I have steam coming out of me....

Cristovao will stand trial along with four other officers later this year in another missing child case.

He is charged with attacking Leonor Cipriano, whose nine-year-old daughter Joana vanished from her home in 2004, and torturing her into falsely confessing to her murder.

Chief Inspector Goncalo Amaral, who was removed as head of the Madeleine McCann investigation last year after criticising British police counterparts, will also stand trial accused of covering up the alleged torture.

Joana disappeared from her home in Figueira, seven miles from Praia da Luz where Madeleine was abducted last May.

Cipriano was later jailed along with her brother Joao, even though Joana's body was never found.

Cristovao, who took early retirement from the Policia Judiciaria, has also written a book on the case with a similar title to his latest novel - "The Star of Joana".

melbel said...

Calcite, you are right.
I cannot see that your country or mine, would have allowed this.
I am no legal expert, obviously,but it seems so unjust,like so many things about this case.
I am going to write to my MP, as it is intolerable that people, who are almost certainly innocent,are treated in this manner.
It is inhumane and I feel so upset,but that is a fraction of the agony that the poor McCs are going through.
Dear Lord, will it ever end ?

melbel said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
melbel said...

We have our faults, over here,but nothing on that scale.
Human Rights lawyers will demolish Portugal and rightly so.
If they still have tinpot legal systems and fall so far short of affording suspects, their human rights, I reckon they should be kicked out of EEE, until they conform.
Bye bye Portugal Tourist Industry.

calcite51 said...

Went back and looked at the article in the Daily Mail - it's the two investigators who are fictional characters - not the book.

Wonder if these two investigators actually did their job and that's why they're considered fictional??

calcite51 said...

By the way, I've decided to take a day off today. Not in the mood for work.

Mandz said...

Melbel & Mum,

This crock of s*** have gone too far. They appear above and beyond the law in every way.

How can this person write a book about two little girls when he is a "suspect" in one of the cases and the other is ongoing? Where is their secrecy law now? Their whole judicial system is worrying…very very worrying…

I hope the McCann’s sue once their status has been lifted however where does one start when EVERYONE including ex police are making money out of your MISSING CHILD????? Unbelievable..

melbel said...

MANDZ,MUM AND CALCITE
Antis keep bleating on about Government interference,but really, this has gone way too far and I expect nothing less.
Why aren't our Human Rights lawyers speaking out openly?
The Portugese cannot have it all their own way and if a foreign born person was accused of such a crime,in a reversal and the kidnapping happened here, it would be the British people speaking out.
Where are the \portugese moral majority?
Any poster, on either side, with any decency, knows that this is wrong and if they are too blinded by hatred to see it,God help them.
It looks as if the Secrecy laws are there to protect the Police and nobody else and they can hide a whole load of incompetencies and failures to act, underneath it.

Anonymous said...

Hi, back from tennis (watching only!!). Seen your posts went to have a look on Alsabella's. Posted this in answer to one of Wizard's and Lizzy's posts

Wizard,
Why would you not expect the Mccann's to be 'furious' over the publication of this book. Your expectations are what I find confusing.

I have not seen any article as yet about this book, have only read posts on both sides about it.

A couple of points:

Given that the author of this book is one of the PJ (ex I believe) that is facing trial over another missing girl in Portugal, do you agree that it is appropriate for him to be commenting on an on-going investigation?

Having condemned the Mccann's for months over their so called 'films' and 'documentaries' are you now agreeing that it is appropiate behaviour for a member of the Portuguese community to take advantage of his previous position within the PJ, amd make money out of Madeleine's disappearance?

I really think that you need to look closely at what is going on and how you are being manipulated.

With regard to the wheeabouts of Rosie, Lizzy if you look at previous posts these 'sightings' were referring to our supposed 'night' occupations on the highways. Purely fictional.LOL

Anonymous said...

Hi and bye again, shopping this time. No rest for the wicked!!!

If you look on A's site you will find that they have been querying the fact that Rosie was last seen on the M1!!!! and this implies that the PJ must be in the UK. Logic there somewhere!

Hope to catch you all later.

calcite51 said...

HelenM - I bet your response is deleted...

Anonymous said...

Calcite just taken a look, it is still there and two responses from Betty and Alsabella. Haven't got time now but will go back later.

melbel said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mandz said...

Helen,

Well said!
They are unbelievable..

Tinkerbell43 said...

How on earth can this man be allowed to publish this book. I hope it is banned for sale in the UK.

Anybody that buys this book to line the pockets of an ex PJ Officer facing trial himself, is just as despicable as the author.

This just highlights what an immoral bunch of charactors this mob are both past and present.

Personally I think the book has been released to coincide with the PJ's visit. It will no doubt document how they have had an uphill struggle against political interference by the UK government and how they have been hindered in completing the investigations and why there most probably will be no charges brought.

Its all to save Portuguese face at whatever cost and keep their public on side. Shame on them.

Mandz said...

Exactly Tinks....

More lies lies lies and why are they being allowed to get away with this????? Soft Touch Britain...

Mandz said...

Melbel,
But the sad reality is they are getting everything their own way? I honestly don’t know why people in authority are not up in arms at these people? Surely this cannot go on they have gone above and beyond.
Do the Portuguese not think this is odd? Suspicious behaviour? Worrying?

Tinkerbell43 said...

Its all progaganda Mandz, god help the lot of them when the McCanns can finally speak out.

I cant wait for that day.

Catch ya later.

Christabel said...

Afternoon all,
I see you forgot about this little gem, I posted some months ago.
How come all these bent PJ are doing so well.
Then he's got the nerve to open his trench and talk about the McCanns.
It really makes me wonder what has actually happenned with Madeleine and who is involved.

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

Mr Paulo Pereira Cristovao, 38, left the Policia Judiciaria (PJ) in September and now heads the Portuguese Association for Missing Children (APCD), which leads the hunt for missing children in Portugal.

Mum21 said...

I am laughing my head off here. I popped over to the House from Hell to see if they deleted Helen's comment. So far they have not. But whilst there I decided to read a few comments...which is what made me laugh my head off. Are these people for real? Or are they fiction too? There they are concerned what has happened to Rosie...or the many ID's she posts under. They think she has gone underground in fear because the PJ might have arrived. I bet she is shaking in her shoes. te he he. I bypassed the thousands of comments by 2345 because they are sooooooo longgggggg....boring. Just a repeat of the same old.
Alsa mentioned the retired highway whores again...gloatingly. What she does not seem to know is we are not America...we do not have highways...but motorways.
That woman sure does talk out of her ar-e.

melbel said...

Hiya mandz
Nobody in the parallel universe at Auntie Alsa's,sees any contradiction in the ethical side of it.It is unbelievable what has been done to this family.
Should be a health warning on holidaying there, as no one is going to speak out for you[pardon me , there is the Human Rights lawyer on their staff now, from Portugese bar]
At least here, you can get the most rabid DE or DM reader,but on top of that, there are many who will see you get fair play.
I think Tinks has a good point re timing of PJ visit and publication of this scandalous tome.
I feel like being there, with my placards.
Shown the world, what you are Portugal and it is not very pleasant.
It absolutely stinks rotten.

melbel said...

Mum, Mandz,Christa, Tinks
It is march and they are mad as hatters.
Wizard,Lizzy fretting about the motorway airport pickups.Pity we blew our cover, girls.[wink,nudge]
They spend all their days, playing giant Cluedo and who dun it.
Docmac asked the only sensible question of the day,re the batteries on these tracking devices,as in Murat's car, only lasting for a few hours and needing winding up.
I wonder if they all take their batteries out at night, as I think we are talking robots and not real people here.
You could not make it up.

Mum21 said...

I came across the comment below posted on the Mail forum regarding Paulo Pereira Cristovao.

This man has expressed an opinion that the McCann couple should have been charged with leaving Madeleine unattended in the apartment. Yet, at the same time, he expresses the opinion that they killed Madeleine.

If they had killed her, then they could hardly have left her unattended. If they left her unattended, then someone else must be responsible for her disappearance.

melbel said...

Mum.Don't think logic comes into it !I will go and look and I did not think DE/DM group, were allowing such comments.
I bet it is soon pulled.

Anonymous said...

PRECISELY MUM21

A lot of people want to have it both ways, which is obviously not possible.

I have changed my views on the Daily Mail in last 2 weeks. They have gone against all they used to stand for. No time for them at all now. I would not give this man's book one centimetre never mind columns. He is corrupt and has no view I would wish to read. He clearly has his own agenda.

Mum21 said...

You are right Jane. And if it is offered for sale over here I think most decent book shops will refuse to stock it.
It seems the British moral standards are way above the Portuguese moral standards.
Thank goodness.

Christabel said...

How can some cretin like this be the head of the Portuguese Association for Missing Children (APCD).
In my estimation Portugal goes lower and lower by the day.
Then they ask why we think the PJ are corrupt ??????????.


http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/news/article-23457708-details/Former+Portuguese+police+chief+claims+Maddie's+body+was+dumped+at+sea+in+new+novel+set+to+anger+McCanns/article.do

Mum21 said...

Now ladies I am off for a short while.
Got to go and cook for the man in the house.
Be back later.

melbel said...

Christabel

He is despicable and God help the missing children.
Off to salvage some chilli.
Might be back, but am getting dizzy with rocking my rocking chair so much.x

Mandz said...

They investigate missing children however the children are never found, both parents get the blame and he makes money from writing two books about these cases….

Yes Christable I know what you mean.

Gina said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

bye MUM"! - catch you later. On the road tonight again so we'd better get ready ......

MANDZ LIKE YOUR NEW DANGER AVATAR. I have never seen you as mad angry as today. Don't blame you. The PJ have their own rules, do not like them questioned, but now they certainly will be. These secrecy laws for a start will be thrown out in my view. Anyone under suspicion at all, never mind CHARGED with any offence, not just related to any case in hand, should automatically be barred from investigating at all, if not simply barred....full stop.....from policing ay case at all until case over with. They have their own silly rules which now that they have been exposed to ridicule, I feel, will be altered as pressure groups will form.

Also the McCanns will simply bide their time. then. JUST WATCH THEM GO. Clara will ensure they sue every person who damaged them in any way - in sight..... - every single one. I am certain of it.

Mandz said...

What I would like to know from the Antiz is that they “predicted” LAST YEAR 2007! Gerry and Kate will be charged and jailed cos the PJ got all the evidence however it has NEVER HAPPENED….???????!! !!

Mandz said...

Hi Jane,
Thank you! I am pretty peeved off with the way this little girl appears to have been let down and the spongers making money from her. The McCann’s the British people do not deserve this.

Anonymous said...

Manda Mandz Mandz

ANOTHER avatar....you trying to confuse me all over again? Is the Danger Zone not one any more???

I don't actually recall Rosiepops saying anything about 18 March, sorry. The deadline next one, is it not mid April? But as everything with dates has been elastic, this will no doubt be also. I don't believe anything at all any more. Don't believe Papers either. Iam really a cynic now, but no wonder with al this stupid nonsense. It's 11 months, Madeleine is coming up to 5. She should have been a year nearly at nursery now, going to Primary School after summer. She will have grown, changed, arrggghhhhh.

I can't bear to think of it.

Is that wry smile meant Mandz aka Mona Lisa. Did you get your arm damaged in the Motorway last night????? Oh dear. Rosiepops won't pay you you know. Not even 50%. ;o((((((((((((((((((((

Anonymous said...

DAILY MAIL

I have never I don't think had one of my posts published there although I did not break any rules. They it has to be said were not 100% complimentary re their articles, though. My disgust has increased so very very much over last 2 weeks. I wrote complaining about translation of the word ''ammunition'' re the PJ. I also wrote the other day about their article being insensitive and unnecessary. Poor journalism. Not, naturally, published either. So, I voted with my feet and my wallet. I no longer buy that paper. The DE also published onthe same day, different articles re Madeleine, totally opposite viewpoints. That is using your readers. I have no time for that either. Using Madeleine's name to 'sell' papers. Not on.

I am sure Clara has his finger on this pulse, though, and I am equally sure he will not let it go. He will act when he is able to do so with a vengeance. I am sure of it. Bloggers beware.

Mandz said...

Jane,

Love your new one! I'm in a funny mood....!!

Like you I don't recall Rosie predicting a date etc..?

Gina said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
calcite51 said...

I think one of you should go to Hades' blog and this is the reply you should make:

"Ouch, caught in the act - Kate is Rosiepops.She is in Portugal as we speak requesting their status as arguido be removed. And she wanted to pick up a copy of the book so they can sue your *** off."

calcite51 said...

By your ****off, I of course meant the ex-pj

Anonymous said...

You are just angry at the injustice of it all. That's all. I can see that and I agree with your points. Good has to come from this, as now this nonsense has been exposed, not just the UK but other EEC countries in particular, the US, CANADA, AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, AND DARE I SAY SOUTH AFRICA. ALL NOW KNOW THIS ARCHAIC RULING (WHICH THEY BREAK WHEN THEY FEEL LIKE IT,) IS UNFAIR, INHUMANE AND AGAINST HUMAN RIGHTS. IT WILL CHANGE. PEOPLE JUST WON'T ALLOW IT TO GO ON.

It has been put out in the public domain now and lots of pressure groups, the Church - all denominations, etc too will want this repealed. The EEC has to have a consistent 'line' and this has been shown to be 'out of step'.

It will change, because it has been exposed, ridiculed and now has to.

in time..............

Anonymous said...

It was also published a few weeks' ago the McCanns always have a large family reunion in Ireland at Easter. If PJ wanted to speak to them, they would be there. I expect the 5 day rule still applies in that if they leave their home address for more than 5 days they have to have permission from the PJ........so they will know of this plan, and their visit here would take that into account. I am sick hearing they are here.

For all we know, they could have been and gone, but I doubt it, as in the past visits were made in secret and not reported.

I just want things to move forward.

Anonymous said...

Hi all, thought you might like to see this. I know we agreed no more cut & pasting but as you can see I have been the chosen one!!! Hate to disappoint. LOL

Helen,

You are in a reporter mission here.

So here is for you to report back to the lair:

Mr Cristóvão is not accused of torturing anyone but merely of having "invited unknown individuals to beat" the convicted murderess cipriano. We all know in Portugal this is the most ridiculous accusation ever and the political manipulation behind it is clear as crystal. We all look forward to see our policemen in court and to hear truths that will be very embarrassing for lots of VIPs.

The ones you defend should be ashamed of blaming this former PJ to have the courage to try to establish some balance in this sad case where 2 suspects behave as if they were Hollywood stars after leaving three babies alone night after night, and while through their so important connections and spin doctors, they have been splashing my Country, my Police and my People into the ultimate dirt.

There is one thing all those persons will have to live with: they can use political influence on Portuguese government, ministers, justice, etc...but they will never shut up PJ.
Cristóvão's book is totally justified and legitimate as we Portuguese are owed to recover our dignity and some sort of decent balanced point of view in this sad case.
The only important issue for the PJ inspectors who have been or are involved with Madeleine disappearance is the interest of the victim. Madeleine is the only person who matters and the one who must have justice.

Cristóvão's book may just be the very beginning of a cycle...and the ones you defend and their clan will have to live with it.

We live in a pseudo-democracy for sure, as we have the proof through the way this case is being manipulated but if you expect PJ to play the game of the big fish and the arrogant neophytes, you can wait until cows go home.

Athena wrote.

18 March 2008 16:00

It appears that Dogmad would rather my post had been deleted, but you need to fly over to the site even it's just to see the reasoning from 2345 on why we are referring to M1,2,3 etc. Not stopped laughing, wet my pants!!!

I do remember Rosie saying something about March, but I would be a liar if I said she did or didn,t give a date. If it is the same incident I think that other posters jumped on her and reminded her that it was April and not March. However I wouldn't presume to speak for Rosie so if she wishes to answer Gina that is up to her.

Anonymous said...

MELBEL I AM SO JEALOUS I LOVE CHILLI.....

I remember Gina posting she was making one, so next day I got all the ingredients and made a huge one and we ate it all....gorgeous. It's one of my favourite 'comfort' foods ever.

Now look what you've done. Email me a large portion please. Hope it's nice and fiery..........with those little peppers or even better Scotch Bonnet ones. Yum.

...but never ever scratch you eye once chopping them... as you will be really in pain......

Mandz said...

Hi Gina,

Your post reminded me of the predictions made from the Antiz in 2007 which made me laugh!! Every month it was going to happen – the imminent arrests as early as today, next week next month etc etc!!

As for Rosie the only person that can answer that is Rosie however I don’t recall her mentioning a date something was going to happen!

Gina said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Anonymous said...

NOONE

could possibly in truth or seriously

use the words.

'decent'

or

'balanced'


about such a trashy insensitive book. Changing the PJ's names to avoid a law suit by making it 'fiction'... ha ha ha...will not work.

and....that is what it is, FICTION. Rubbish.

I would not fall in to their trap and 'report' back as they are saying. I have no interest in their views, and if I did, I would go to their site to read it myself. NOT that any replies are allowed to see light of day by being posted. They are all deleted. You are a 'coward' not using your name, you are deleted if you do. Can't win. So no interest.

Helen, you are being used. ;o(((

Mandz said...

Calcite!!!

Can't stop laughing!!

Gina said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mandz said...

Jane,

Did you say "rule" they don't apply to them they are above and beyond any RULES..OR LAWS for that matter!!!

Mandz said...

Talking of Dustbins where is Alsa? On the highway to nowhere!!

Anonymous said...

Jane, I have only be 'used' if I do not know that I am. One of our posters earlier today stated that she couldn't believe that Athena would be in agreement with this book. Her comments have proved otherwise.

Gina, why you have to play the hurt poster all the time is beyond me. There was no riot, only posters replying in a polite way to your question. There was certainly no need to remove your post. If it had been offensive then the moderator would have done that for us. Any poster is welcome to post at anytime, however this is becoming a statement that requires repeating on a very regular basis, just like the one were we say that we do not defend child neglectors/murderers. Quite frankly I am fed up with the lot of it.

Christabel said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Gina said...

Helen I was not playing the hurt poster as you put it. I asked a genuine question and whilst nobody was at all rude with their responses I just felt it was reminding people of what others have said from time to time and would build into a load of nonsense as more came on line on both blogs, so I removed them to avoid that.

Just to set the record straight, I have never said you defend child neglectors and it is wrong to tar everybody with the same brush just because they post on a blog where some do say that. We all have our own opinions and needless to say our view vary. I will leave it at that as Janegt, I am off to make a chilli.

Christabel said...

Christabel said...
Helen,

I agree with your post.
How childish can people get, you go, no you go they'll tell you. I'll go then then come back and report.

Oh well if it helps towards brownie points, one might get the badge.

Mandz said...

Jane, Helen Christabel!

I'm going to hit the road..! Back laters....

Christabel said...

Keep off my road Mandz.

Gina said...

Christabel why would I need to report back, if anybody is the least bit interest they can read what they want on here. I only said I would be back in a mo to Alsa site not that I would report back. Not my style, too upfront.

I too am totally sick of all this but although you all say I am welcome it doesn't take much for you to find fault does it BYE

Christabel said...

Gina,
if thats the case, why not come and ask for yourself instead of asking others first, if you should go and ask.

BYE.

melbel said...

Hi all.Chilli not great as it was from a packet,but went down ok.
I was the poster, who wanted to know what a decent poster, like Athena, who I read for a while and kind of admire, thought.
I do not post on any other blog,but read Alsa.
I am disappointed, as I think the gulf is a lot bigger, than I realised.
The charges laid,against this ex PJ author, are another way of saying incitement to torture, to me and torture is torture and should never be.
He should never be commenting and using inside information, to give one in the eye to anybody, as this is an ongoing case and is about a missing child.He is violating the Secrecy laws and making money while, at the same time, the suspects are muzzled.
That kind of blind nationalism, my country and institutions are always right and cannot be criticised, is a dying thing, in many nations now and I do not buy into it.
It is morally wrong, in my view, to be writing such a book and would not be allowed in most countries.It is blatant cashing in, for money, on the memory of a child victim.
As for the PJ being criticised,they have sought to blacken these people,by releasing daily leaks of misleading, untrue and overplayed "evidence ", according to Leicester
laboratory and have damaged themselves. Nobody else said it, or did it.
God only knows where this will end, but if we do not have the principle of innocence until proven guilty, we are all lost.

Jane. Husband to try to re set computer,after I upset things and it will not print.I may be gone some time !
Have a good evening's debating.x

Anonymous said...

Gina this is the last I am going to post on this subject. I was not accusing you of saing that we defend child neglectors, only that I was fed up of repeating myself.
Do you not think you are a little too sensitive?
Enjoy your chili.

Off for dinner.

calcite51 said...

HelenM - who are the VIPs Athena is referring to?

Gina said...

Christabel, because I got fed up with all the speculation about who supposed to have said what ( I personally couldn't remember anything about this) so I said shall I go ask, to which the reply was I might stand a better chance of getting an answer. I wished I had not bothered now and will certainly not bother again. There are good and bad posters on both sites and some that just have nothing worthwhile to say so pop at others.

I had a good conversation with Mum 21 this morning, but I will not post here again which I am sure will make you happy.

Anonymous said...

Calcite,V.I.P.'s can only think that is us!!lol What do you think?

calcite51 said...

Can't imagine anyone from that site calling US VIPs - they usually call us names that are NOT so flattering.

Anonymous said...

melbel

bye for now. I do hope you get the printer working again, not that I would know ha ha ha

packet PACKET chilli?? good grief. I love 2nd day chilli, like 2nd day ham and lentil soup, tates better. My daughter luckily adores it too.

Gina enjoy your chilli as well.

Pity I didn't have one on the go....you have all made me want chilli now......#All i NEED next is chinadoll to bounce on and say she is having one. AAAAArrrgh.

The more the PJ and the secrecy laws are used to defend the behavious of these in charge and taking care of the investigation, the more they ar shooting themselves in both feet as far as I am concerned, as I said in my previous posts. I actually think it is a good thing it is so open. #they seem however to 'boast' about their 'gentlemen' PJ and their system.....it is in my view, an idle boast as it is bound to cause a lot of backlash once Madeleine is hopefully found and returned.

*******MADELEINE********

Gina said...

and no Helen I do not think I am too sensitive, I am just thoughly bored with the whole damn thing now and giving up on it

Christabel said...

Gina,

why do you assume I care one way or the other, if you post you post.
But come on for yourself and read posts, without having to resort to putting the cat amongst the pidgeons on either site.
I don't care whether you think my posts not worthwhile, I may think the same about others but I don't post on it.

Take Care Gina x

Anonymous said...

vip'S

LET ME THINK NOW

very important policemen

very important pros
(prostitutes on highways e.g.)

vicious ignorant posts

Anonymous said...

can't work it out what are VIP'S????

!

Tinkerbell43 said...

Hi Jane,

Whats all this about VIP's ??

Christabel said...

Hi Jane,

Rosie has told me to keep you all in line tonight lol.

Christabel said...

Hi Tinks,

did you read my 16.55 post.

Tinkerbell43 said...

Hi Christabel,

Teachers pet! Just because the cats away, dont you go getting a bossy boots.

Tinkerbell43 said...

Hey Christabel,

No, not looked back over posts yet, will go and have a read now...

calcite51 said...

It was in the response that Athena gave Helen -second paragraph. Maybe she means the England's PM??

helenm said...
Hi all, thought you might like to see this. I know we agreed no more cut & pasting but as you can see I have been the chosen one!!! Hate to disappoint. LOL

Helen,

You are in a reporter mission here.

So here is for you to report back to the lair:

Mr Cristóvão is not accused of torturing anyone but merely of having "invited unknown individuals to beat" the convicted murderess cipriano. We all know in Portugal this is the most ridiculous accusation ever and the political manipulation behind it is clear as crystal. We all look forward to see our policemen in court and to hear truths that will be very embarrassing for lots of VIPs.

The ones you defend should be ashamed of blaming this former PJ to have the courage to try to establish some balance in this sad case where 2 suspects behave as if they were Hollywood stars after leaving three babies alone night after night, and while through their so important connections and spin doctors, they have been splashing my Country, my Police and my People into the ultimate dirt.

There is one thing all those persons will have to live with: they can use political influence on Portuguese government, ministers, justice, etc...but they will never shut up PJ.
Cristóvão's book is totally justified and legitimate as we Portuguese are owed to recover our dignity and some sort of decent balanced point of view in this sad case.
The only important issue for the PJ inspectors who have been or are involved with Madeleine disappearance is the interest of the victim. Madeleine is the only person who matters and the one who must have justice.

Cristóvão's book may just be the very beginning of a cycle...and the ones you defend and their clan will have to live with it.

We live in a pseudo-democracy for sure, as we have the proof through the way this case is being manipulated but if you expect PJ to play the game of the big fish and the arrogant neophytes, you can wait until cows go home.

Athena wrote.

calcite51 said...

Jane - love your answers - I've got it Vicious ignorant posters (that's us)!! lol

Christabel said...

Calcite,
I like the merely,
Mr Cristóvão is not accused of torturing anyone but merely of having "invited unknown individuals to beat" the convicted murderess cipriano.

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

This is london says,

Cristovao, a former Policia Judiciaria inspector who is facing trial over accusations he tortured a woman into falsely confessing to murdering her child, has admitted his new book is "pro-Portugal"

calcite51 said...

Christabel - I noticed that line too in her response and thought 'oh, yep whatever.'

I really think the other side of the blog is going beyond belief. I think it was mom or melbel this morning that said they were debating how one would transport a body without any knowing it to another country. Are these people for real?

I thought the book was being released today - so where's the author and the book?

Christabel said...

Calcite,
exactly. Like Gerrys wallet apparently now taken back to him by someone from Amsterdam, still with the cash lolololol!

His wallet was posted back to him the same day as it was stolen,enclosed was the wallet and Madeleine's photograph, but MINUS the cash, take it they missed the London postmark shown on the envelope.

calcite51 said...

Christabel - I do remember the news about Gerry's wallet - and it was returned to him with Madeleine pictures but without the cash.

Tinkerbell43 said...

Christabel,

I cannot believe your 16:55 post.

This person is accused of allegedly torturing a confession out the mother of a missing child and he is head of an Association for missing children.

Christ, what on earth is going on out there.

Then there's Tavares Almeida who was let loose interrogating Kate, when he is on trial for allegedly trying to torture a suspect into confessing and then theres good old Gonc. and people wonder why the McCanns didnt return of their own free will to answer questions.

Christabel said...

Tinks, nice place innit ?

off for a shower be back soon.

Mail in your box

Anonymous said...

Hi all

just in, taxi service....again!!!

TINKS cant remember another poster said vip;s mentioned, perhaps it was Athene? Maybe helen posted it? can't remember as so so so so cold outside. Bitter. My fingers are
fffffffffffffffffffffffrozen.

It started what does VIP mean, then I started guessing, ......

Oh dear. I can't believe after such a lovely sunny day, it is so so bitter outside. Maybe the snow is on its way as the forecast said. A white Easter. Come and roll your frozen eggs here. they won't move.

I REFUSE TO DO THE M6 TONIGHT. No way. Too ffffffffreeain' ccolddd for that malarkey. rosie can have her £1.68 from me. It's worth it not to go.

I will do double time on Saturday.
;o)))))

rosiepops said...

Day 57 - 29/06/2007 - Friday
Early rise this morning dropping off and picking up good friends from the airport. One of our friends from Amsterdam, who has been actively campaigning to publicise Madeleines disappearance, dropped in to see us for a couple of hours since he is on a golfing trip in the Algarve.

Our friends brought back my wallet which had been returned, needless to say minus the Sterling, although all my cards and €30 were still in it! It is good to have my driving license back and one or two other important things.

calcite51 said...

I have to give it to the McCanns - they seem to be making a lot of 'right decisions'. The latest one is of course, the fiasco with the lawyer and investigating the lake. He went from being told what had happened to Madeleine by an underground contact and now he says he had a dream that was where she was.

Can you imagine the outcry if the McCanns had given money for this investigation??

calcite51 said...

Christabel - you and I were both wrong - thanks keyhole kate for the info.

Keyhole Kate - any theories on how one would transport a body from one country to another?

Anonymous said...

Lying Lawyers now....

whatever next. I posted on that too. So much for the 'underworld' source. A dream........How ridiculous.

This whole thing now is completely unbelievable. No wonder none of us believe a thing we see.

archer said...

Good evening ladies

My my aren't you looking very professional tonight!

Had a quick look on the 'Madame's' site. They really are gearing up for a Easter re-enactment of the crucifixtion. So sad.

Anonymous said...

ah my chum robin hood in drag

not going out like THAT AGAIN are you???

Hello Archer

It is bitterly bittely cold here tonight. Despite heating full on, my fingers are malffffffffffffffffffunctioning again...as per usual. Nothing new there then.

Trust you are well. I am skiving off tonight and Rosiepops can get her money anyhow. M6 too foggy and cold. Don't want frostbite in sensitive places do I???

Anonymous said...

Maid Marion tonight is it Archer????

Hmmm. still put your vest on as you will get a chill.

archer said...

Hi Jane

I'm not in drag tonight...but I do have my twelve bow with me! I'm a fairy elf archer!!!!

Yes it's bitterly cold here too.

I've consulted with my union and they agreed I should not have to go out on account of my disability .OK..

Anonymous said...

yes Archer

I joinedthe union last month too coz Rosie is too strict. Pro sack is good, highly recommended for our type of needs.

????

;o)))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Can't believe the drop in temperature tonight. looks bad.

Mandz said...

You know the fictional stuff coming out of Portugal is unbelievable!

Maybe Portugal is a figment of our imaginations and this is all a dream what’s being fed to us..?

Who is running the country Obi-Wan Kenobi..? Teletubbies? Kojak? The Crankies?

archer said...

Jane

If Rosie gets to hear of this I expect she will give me a hat to cover my disability and tell me to get out there. Huh.

Possible snow showers expected out this way Thursday. Can't wait!
I hate driving in icy weather.

SeaWitch said...

Evening Jane and Archer!

You both look like you could do with a few knitted layers on. Get mum21's psycho gran to sort you out!

Alternatively, you could switch the central heating on..... ;-)

Anonymous said...

HI SEAWITCH

boy it's really ffffffrrrrreeeaing
tonight. I seriously have it full on, still shivering.

Archer yes, I loathe driving on ice. The gritters don't do round here so to get on to nearest main road is a huge task in itself. I just won't risk it.

I will be surprised if it waits till Thursday to descend, feels like in next hour.....brrrrrrrrrr.

archer said...

Hi Seawitch - you can put in an order for me then please. :¬) meduim size please.

Jane without narrowing it down too much, where abouts are you?

SeaWitch said...

Oh, and hello, Mandz del Giocondo,

Didn't spot you there.

Jane,

Honestly! Don't you have any heating????

Light a ffffffffffffffffire!

Christabel said...

Jane,
keep off the M6, you know thats one of my patches.
Will be in Stafford tomorrow, one of my sisters lives there and we are out for the day.

archer said...

Jane

TOP TIP - hot water bottle at the small of your back. Will stop you from fffffreezing !

True. :¬)

SeaWitch said...

Archer,

I can tell you exactly where Jane is.

Lala land!

Evening Christabel.

I earned loads of money on my shift but I had to give it back - got sued under the Trade Descriptions Act.....!

archer said...

Seawitch

Get yourself inspected by OFPROZ - I did. You won't have any problems then !! lol

Christabel said...

Hey seawitch,

mine was under the sale of goods act.
If they catch me again they are sending me to Portugal.

Rosie, stick your job lol !!!

Anonymous said...

ARCHER

actually WITHOUT A JOKE HERE, i ADORE A HOT WATER BOTTLE AT small of my back, ALTHOUGH HERE WE CALL IT A 'HOT BAG' (APT OR WHAT?????!!) YES, THERE AND BETWEEN YOUR KNEES. bliss, I swear by hot bags. Who invnted them? He or She has my undying affection.

Seawitch got 2 vests on now, OK.???

I too adored the psycho grannie in the attic avatar of Mum21's but she changed it too fast. It was fantastic. Encompassed the moment superbly.

where can I get one to do that for tonight, a big black hole????????

;o)))))

where are you Archer without saying too much either. We are probs both totally off the mark, but never mind. good for a laugh. No that we are short of them on here. My daughter really thinks I am certifiable. ### I haven't naturally told her about 5678.99 yet as that is one that really IS THE GENUINE article for that category. Not only can she turn milk sour, her own blog/s seem to be 'turning' too.

###don't say it. I know..... Answer = 400+ miles north of Watford Gap. in north westerly direction. at the moment.........

Christabel said...

Seawitch,

I know what it is.
We have to register for VAT cos of the high earnings lol.

SeaWitch said...

Archer,

Can't, I owe them for my last inspection - they've refused to do business with me until I cough up!

Trade is going downhill fast, might have to risk moonlighting to save on forking out a cut to Rosie!

SeaWitch said...

Please don't tell Rosie I said that. She scares me!!!

Rosiepops said...

Hi All

How is everyone?

SeaWitch said...

Christabel,

Isn't VAT a tax on values?

We ain't got no values....!

Christabel said...

Oh bloody hell, she's here.

Rosie it was not me it was Jane, Mandz, Tinks and Seawitch.

Anonymous said...

hey SEAWITCH

woever knitted this floor length hoodie, forgot to put the eye holes in the hood.

ooops

have I got it right way round?????

why isn't there a label saying P or DOWN.

MADE IN IRELAND.


ha ha ha like the leprechaun joke, or the 'this way up' on BOTH ENDS of every can of Guinness.

hic

ha ha ha ha ha ha

I resign Rosie, not doing it any more and I told my union, Pro Sack. Archer's resigned too, and gone to OFPROZ. so there.

;o) ;o) ;o) ;o) ;o) !!!!!

Rosiepops said...

SeaWitch

I told you before I am all eyes and ears and never miss anything!

Have you got anything for me?

SeaWitch said...

Oh, no!

I didn't mean it, Rosie, honest!!!!

Please dont punish me....... :-(

Christabel said...

Rosie or should I say Gerry.

You really are looking after your girls aren't you ?

SeaWitch said...

Uh, uh, uh course, Rosie.

I won't do it again, honest!

Rosiepops said...

personally, I think all you *girlies* have got out of hand and need reining in.

Christabel said...

Seawitch you creep lol.

archer said...

Jane

The city of roundabouts is known as Milton Keynes.

Though I did a fair bit of travelling a few weeks ago. Took daughter to interviews at some uni's. Manchester,Liverpool,Newcastle,Surrey and Warwick. Don't know which she will go for as she has been offered them all - subject to grades,of course!

SeaWitch said...

Christabel, you snitch!

I'm gonna have you for that, just you wait.

Tell-tale!

Christabel said...

Rosie,
I've tried, have you seen the end of my whip.?
Its all frayed.

Mum21 said...

Good Evening all...you called for my help? One very thick sweater coming up.
I am back in the warm attic doing my knitting cos Rosie gave me the night off. I got top marks for hitting Doppleganger over the head with my zimmer frame. Rosie also said because of this I could keep 10% of my last nights earnings. So I bought a whole ball of knitting wool...just for Jane.
So hands up who offers to do the M27 tonight...from Portsmouth to Brighton.

Anonymous said...

oh poor rosiepops

if 'you are all eyes and ears'

you ask seawitch has she anything for you....might I suggest

A NOSE??????


HA HA HA

RESIGNED BEFORE YOU SACKED ME. HEE HEE

OFF TO OFPROZ NOW. CAN'T DO THIS TO LITTLE ME.....BOO HOO

Christabel said...

She put me in charge Seawitch, and you just ignored me ( no change there then )ah ah.

Rosiepops said...

Mum
I am sending a new gal down there to cover your patch!

Where is Joanypony? Has she got herself rigged out yet?

Christabel said...

Jane,

see what I have sent you.

Mum21 said...

Don't think so Rosie. Want me to knit her a sexy outfit?

Rosiepops said...

Mum

OK but just make sure you drop the stitches in the appropriate places!

Mum21 said...

How about a scarf...with a very long fringe to cover her bits and pieces

Christabel said...

Rosie, seawitch and me have been stopped and they said,
If they catch us again they are sending us to Portugal.

Rosie, stick your job lol !!!

Anonymous said...

OOOPS SORRY ROSIEPOPS YOU NEED

...

a mouth too. but then you'd just talk, n talk, ntalk, n talk.

so I am not sending you a cybermouth. (it'll keep you quiet.)

MUM21 where DID you get that psycho attic grannie knitting in the attic from.....it is fantastic. we can all tell one another's moods now without saying a word by our avatars......great stuff

Christabel said...

Mum,

can you change that I keep thinking my grans come in lol!
I can't stop laughing at it.

SeaWitch said...

Yeah, right, Christabel.

You're not the boss of me. Rosie's the real boss, you're just a fake. Rosie's the only one who looks after us, isn't that right, Rosie?

Yes, of course I'll do mum's shift on the M27, anything you say!

(Jane, can you get me into Pro Sack? The sooner I can ditch this outfit the better....!!!)

Christabel said...

Warrever seawitch,

talk to the hand cos the face aint listenin.

You don't really know Rosie, where do you think she's bin all day.
Beautiful suite Rosie, and the highway whores should be proud they earned enough to pay for it.
Well done girls.
She wants a table and chairs next lol.

Anonymous said...

Hi all,
Is it safe to come back on?

Mum21 the M27 now is that the code for A's blog or that woman's?lol

Anonymous said...

SAFE??? SAFE????????

HELEN

IS IT EVER?

ha ha ha good time to join in if you can figure out what on earth is goin' on here.

so what's new!!!!??

;o)))))))

Mum21 said...

No Helen...the M2345 is the code for Alsa's vile site

Rosiepops said...

I just wanted to say about the story today, don't forget it wasn't that long ago that children were able to leave school at 15 yrs, also I find this hypocritial yet again as in India they marry girls off a lot younger tan 15 yrs!
Like the article said, most of us would give a resounding no if this was our daughter, but then it wasn't until to day that I discovered that there was also an aunt on the scene supposedly caring for this girl!

Again it seems to me that for whatever reason the parent has been attacked and people are berating this woman, yet saying nothing at all about the person that fed this girl drink and drugs and then raped her!

I am at a loss at the way some people's minds work here, it is as if they think that because the girl/child should North have been left that the parent/parents in some way deserve all they got.

Well sorry I do not see it this way, no one deserves to have their child abducted or murdered, no one!

I too find it odd that Casa Crud herself can spend so much time on the computer all day and from what I see virtually all night 24/7 and at the same time says they have you
young children?

Well who is caring for these children? Hired help?
I think this is neglect and every child deserves to have their parents attention more than I see a certain person doing!

Mum21 said...

Jane...would you like to join my knitting circle? There are several of us here in the attic.

Anonymous said...

Jane, I think I can just about read between the lines!lol

Thought I'd give my new costume an airing as it seems that it is a lot warmer here than in Britain.

Christabel said...

Rosie,

you hit the nail on the head there.
What a nerve aye ?.

Anonymous said...

Mum21 I'm quite good at knitting egg cosy's! if that's any good>

Christabel said...

Mum,
is that from Flowers in The Attic.

archer said...

Mum

I can cast on ....and do plain and purl, don't know how to cast off though..

Is that any good?

Anonymous said...

Christabel, those books were great. If ever there was a case of child abuse that was it.

Anonymous said...

oh No HELEN PUT A VEST ON

even in the heat, you will get burnt. now someone wanted a hat, YOU COULD BORROW THEIRS.....

MUM21 YES, I CAN KNIT.
FOG.
so can my friend, PJ can I bring that person too? If I drop a stitch my friend 3456.77 can ffffffind it fffffffffforensically.

I know we would all be welcome in your attic. Is it off the M6^?

Be there soon. All of us.

!!!

Tinkerbell43 said...

Hi Everyone,

Rosie, look what they've done to me in your absence, that Miss Whiplash, oh bossy boots over there, said we need to give you a make-over tinks!

archer said...

Rosie

I think its a case of 'do as I say, not as I do'

Hypocrite or what?

Anonymous said...

You look cream crackered Tinks. If that#s what happens to a girl's looks after a few nights on the highways, glad I have got the A roads!!

Christabel said...

Helen,

yes they were, read every one of Virginia Andrews, but they dropped off when someone else wrote them after she died, don't you think ?

Christabel said...

Tinks,
you were warned, what would happen after I found you with ??????

SeaWitch said...

Rosie,

It's sad that society's censure is reserved for the parents whilst seemingly creating the impression that any child with lax parents is somehow fair game.

All too often, when dangerous criminals are caught and sent to prison, swarms of do gooders scurry out of the woodwork to defend them and try to have their sentences quashed.

It seems the public hastily condemns parents who haven't been charged, but seeks to excuse criminals who have been properly tried and convicted.

The warped priorities of society in general are enough to make you weep, at times.

The safety of every child is the responsibility of every adult.

Anonymous said...

Christabel, you are so right. Hadn't realised at first but knew straight away that it was not the original author.

«Oldest ‹Older   1 – 200 of 384   Newer› Newest»

Minute For Madeleine McCann

Locate IP Address on Map