Originally broadcast on: http://radiosoapbox.com Radio Soapbox
Women's Hour broadcasts live every Sunday at 7:00p.m. uk time.
Welcome to another episode of Women's Hour, hosted by Shelley Tasker. This week, we dive into the vibrant world of farming and community spirit. Shelley and Jo reflect on their recent adventures at a tractor rally in Cornwall, where they joined a convoy of 30 tractors from Carling Cross to Cornwall Services. The weather was chilly, but the warmth of the tractors and the camaraderie kept spirits high. Shelley shares her newfound appreciation for farming life after visiting a local farm, learning about the daily grind and the dedication of farmers.
In a heartfelt segment, Shelley recounts attending the funeral of a 94-year-old woman she cared for, highlighting the touching moments of the service and the unique experience of being a pallbearer. This leads to a discussion on the importance of genuine friendships and the challenges of workplace dynamics.
Later, Shelley introduces Abi Matthews, a local runner known for her joyful and energetic runs around town. Abby shares her experiences of spreading positivity through her running, despite facing some negativity and misunderstandings from the community. Her story is one of resilience and the power of positivity, inspiring listeners to embrace joy and community spirit.
As the episode wraps up, Shelley encourages listeners to reach out if they know any inspiring women who would make great guests on the show. She also wishes everyone a Merry Christmas, reminding those who might be alone during the holidays that it's just one day and there are people willing to offer support.
[00:00:57]
Unknown:
Good evening to all of the beautiful women out there, including the old gentlemen listening in too. As I say, I know they listen in. I know Jo's there because I can hear her scraping something. She obviously doesn't realize how noisy she is. You are listening to Women's Hour. We are live on Sunday, 22nd December 2024. It's good to have your company. We are also streaming live via Rumble. Look at my name, Shelley Tasker. And if you'd like to leave in any comment and join me in the chat, please feel do feel free to do so. So good evening, young Jo.
How are you?
[00:01:35] Unknown:
How are you?
[00:01:37] Unknown:
I'm probably a bit like you, a bit exhausted, but I'm not out to do a night shift, so I couldn't think of anything worse.
[00:01:46] Unknown:
I know. I don't even know what possessed me. I really, really don't, but there you go. No rest for the wicked, so they say. And you are wicked.
[00:01:57] Unknown:
Wicked in every way. Wow. It's been a busier week, my dear, hasn't it?
[00:02:04] Unknown:
Hasn't it just? Hasn't it? Very busy. Very busy.
[00:02:09] Unknown:
Joe's been extremely busy organizing the rally for the tractors, and I got to join in on the day and have a lovely ride. It was about 30 tractors that left Carling Cross in Truro, Cornwall, and we headed up to Cornwall Services to just under 2 hours, actually, but it was fun, wasn't it, Jo?
[00:02:32] Unknown:
It was. It was a good turnout. I was very, very happy with that. And the weather wasn't too bad, was it, really? Wasn't really too bad?
[00:02:44] Unknown:
No. Decent weather. And then tractors that poured out the rain. Yeah. Exactly. But it was cold. But my crikey, those tractors are warm, aren't they? Aren't they just? Can they?
[00:02:58] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. I mean, you you you had a sunroof in yours, so I was somewhat slightly envious.
[00:03:05] Unknown:
I didn't study it that much, to be fair. I was intrigued, but I didn't look up. But I should imagine in summertime bit for Lowtown, didn't you, on what does what and how to drive it? Yeah. Yeah. I could be a farmer's wife. I really could.
[00:03:21] Unknown:
Oh, I think you could be a farmer. Come on. Where's that I can fly a plane attitude? Oh, I'm sorry. Yeah. I can fly a plane. You you could drive a tractor.
[00:03:32] Unknown:
I can. Or one of those little, mini things that we went around on yesterday. Myself and Jo also got to visit the lovely farmer that I had a tractor ride with. He kindly let me and Jo intrude on him at his farm, and we were shown around. And, oh, it's fascinating, wasn't it, Joe?
[00:03:51] Unknown:
Oh, gosh. Yeah. Yeah. It really you know, I've sort of have 14 years background of the veterinary industry and and farmers, so I sort of have a very basic, broad understanding. But when you actually physically see it, you know, when you're on the ground, when you're in it, it's fascinating. And you know me and my stupid questions, like, oh, so what does this piece of metal work do? How does the cow put its head through there? What does that do? I love it. Yeah. But I learned a lot yesterday because of those questions
[00:04:26] Unknown:
you were asking. So, roll on round 2. I mean, that was an hour we were there for and just looking where where all of the slush goes. What do they call that? The sluice? Slurry. Slurry. The slurry. I mean, I can't remember how how big it was. I mean, it was a swimming pool. Not that I'd like to go swimming in it.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Yeah. Almost. I would say probably
[00:04:51] Unknown:
He did tell us, didn't he?
[00:04:53] Unknown:
About well, he did. Yeah. I'd I'd I was saturated at that point. I think it's almost just probably half the size of an Olympic swimming pool size. Right. It's pretty damn big. Pretty damn big.
[00:05:11] Unknown:
And I smell like cow urine all evening. And what made me laugh was before we left to go, I cooked a bacon sandwich, and I thought, oh, I'm better. I'm smelling a bacon. So I sprayed myself with, aerosol just so I wouldn't smell and, you know, like anyone was gonna notice.
[00:05:33] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, it's funny because after you had said that to me, I was like, oh, I wonder if I do. And there was a slight aroma on my coat. However, I didn't get close to the cows. You did. You were stroking them. You were right in there. I was right in there. Right in there.
[00:05:54] Unknown:
No. I loved it.
[00:05:55] Unknown:
Tested. And I think the highlight was the rogue
[00:06:01] Unknown:
calf that was like, nah. I'm not following the harp. I'm so sorry. My own way. Yeah. Me and Jo just stood there trying to, like, guide it in, and I was even guiding it in the wrong way at one point. It's like, not my direction. But did you notice they didn't even have coats on, Jo? They just have, like, their coats. Their onesies on, don't they? They're they're little farm outfit. Yeah.
[00:06:25] Unknown:
It took 3 men to literally get this calf. I mean, the calf was, like, not having any of it. It was giving them the runaround. And I think I think in total, there was probably 3 guys along with our farmer that we were visiting, and 2 of them, including our farmer, did not wear wellies. No. I know. The thing I told you. The farmer just had, like when I say trainers, they weren't, like, you know, normal trainers. They were sort of heavy industrial trainers, if there's such a thing. But I'm like and then he lost his shoe halfway trying to get the calf, carried on for a couple of strides with a wet sock. I'm like, oh my giddy arm. Yep. Yep. We got a lot to thank these guys for. It was
[00:07:15] Unknown:
it was fascinating, but, you know, I'm glad I've befriended a farmer. And I do feel now that if ever I get the need, if I need something, a cow, I'd do a bit of sweet talking. You know?
[00:07:28] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, it's interesting because the farmer spoke about sort of, you know, what time they've gotta get up, what time they finish their jobs, and they're always outside, always in the elements, always walking around. And you imagine doing that day in, day out. There must come a point where you're just, like, physically exhausted, but then they have to get up the same time the following morning and do it all over again. Yeah. It's a way of life, isn't it? It's I've and interestingly, he is a second generation farmer.
[00:08:09] Unknown:
But lots of these farmers, they are born into it, aren't they? So they don't really know any different. They've grown up just seeing this day in and day out and becoming part of
[00:08:18] Unknown:
it. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It was a very enjoyable hour, and it was an enjoyable it was an enjoyable rally. It really was a sight to behold that many tractors. And I just need to state for anybody out there that perhaps isn't on the same logical page as the rest of us, they were traveling at a safe distance. They were roadworthy. They were insured, and they did not take up all of the carriageway. They stayed in one lane. And I'll just emphasize that point. The farmer that I was driving with, I wanted to go full on rogue. I wanted to, like, be taken over the blooming yeah. The universe, let alone flipping 2, 3 lanes.
But he talked me down from the ledge and he was like, no. It's really not safe. The the road is wet. We've got big lorries. You know, so these guys are really mindful of everything. And I can't stress the point enough about being custodians of the land. They are, but they're also this sounds so deep, but they are also custodians of life. And just illustrating that point of me wanting to go rogue for somebody else's benefit, and they were saying, no. Let's let's look at the objectives. It's it's where it could possibly cause x, y, and zed. You know, we're better off in a single file. These guys aren't, you know, out to get loads of money. They ain't god, that was very slang like, wasn't it? Yeah. They ain't.
They're they're they're not they're not, you know, trying to pull a fast one on the public. The and I the more I learn, the more I feel really passionate about it that they have had such a bum deal for decades. And the powers that be have allowed the general populace to form a ill educated opinion on what is actually not true. These guys as you said, it's a way of life for them. These guys do it because that's their life. It's a vocation.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
Definitely. And you ladies out there that are single, farmers need wives. So if you've got horses and a love of animals and a love of being at nature, get yourself a farmer.
[00:10:59] Unknown:
Absolutely. Yeah. They may with the horse thing because it's a well known fact. Farmers don't particularly care for horses on their land. They like horses, but horses tend to churn up the land quite a bit.
[00:11:15] Unknown:
Yeah. Unlike the cows, the story of the cows yesterday, interestingly, I can't remember what he said what type of breed they were, but they're very lazy and from moving The Sorry? They're host Holston.
[00:11:29] Unknown:
Holston. Holston. Holston. You know, like a gun holster? These are holston. So there's Friesian cows, which are the black and white ones, and these Holston cows are very black and white. But as you said, they're very lazy. They're not like Friesian cows. These ones are lazy.
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Yeah. That's the sort of cow that I would wanna be if I ever came back as a cow. I'm
[00:11:55] Unknown:
like, what a life. I just get to move around very slowly. Forty kilos of feed they eat in a day per cow. That's a lot that's a lot of food. They just eat. And then and I'm just like, you know what? I'd like that life.
[00:12:14] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So joyous. And I and I loved the whole little ride. I don't know what that was in. It was like a golf buggy. But my god, did he put his foot down on that? I tell you what. It didn't hang about, did it? No. That was good fun. That was like being on a fair ride. They could always make money like that. First.
[00:12:37] Unknown:
At one point, I thought we were gonna tip over. Yeah. I did. When it when it started to smoke and you could smell rubber, I'm like, oh, that's it. Our days are done. We're gonna go up in flames.
[00:12:51] Unknown:
In a little golf trolley thing. Yeah. Golf buggy. No. It was good. Yeah. It's a good end to the year for the whole activism stuff. Go out on a high, and, obviously, back in January, there will be lots more.
[00:13:07] Unknown:
Yes. Yes. Yeah. That's a good way to round it up. That was a good end to the year, that little hour.
[00:13:13] Unknown:
Yeah. So how about apart from farming and stuff, what else have you been up to?
[00:13:20] Unknown:
What else well, do you know what? I don't think I've been doing anything else other than working and, farming stuff. I don't you know, I think I said to you recently, oh, I just feel like I haven't really
[00:13:38] Unknown:
done enough during the year. Know how you can say that.
[00:13:43] Unknown:
No. I mean, I still feel like that. But when I sort of, you know, make myself look back and almost list what I've done, I'm like, no wonder I'm so tired because I have actually done quite a bit, but it still feels like I haven't. So in answer to your question, I haven't really done anything, Karel, other than work, and farming stuff. I'd I I would like to do nothing if if Yeah. You like to do nothing, don't you? Yeah. Excuse me. My voice is going. I do. You you get bored, don't you? But I don't.
[00:14:22] Unknown:
I mean, I would love to have a free day at the moment. And, I mean, this was my last week before Christmas, like, lots of people. When I finished my job on Monday, and then I thought, oh, I've got 4 days left. I can just potter around, get things ready. But, no, I have to be flying a bit like you, and, you know, it is what it is. But on Friday, I went to a funeral, and, you know, our regular listeners will know that we like the whole chat about death and stuff like that. And it was a 94 year old woman that I looked after in the nursing home, and, oh, it was a beautiful service. And I was asked to be one of the bearers, and it was 4 of us women that did it.
And, cool, that was another lesson in itself, like, putting the coffin on, like, the wheels. And then they were like, don't hold on to the actual handles on the coffin because they're just for show. And on the trolley, they've they've got these, like, little handles that you pull out to wheel along. I mean, it gives you a bit of backache. So, you know, we went in, and it was a lovely service. And the vicar absolutely she was hilarious. I don't know if anybody else found her hilarious, but I did. You know? She had a nose pierced and stuff, and she was telling a story about Greta's life. And then she turned and looked at the coffin, and she said, crikey, Greta. You've been busy, haven't you?
And there was a couple of times that she did that, and I've never seen a vicar do anything like that, speak to the coffin like they were there. You know? Really nice. Yeah. It was nice. And then, like, you know, the first hymn, they did that dance in the morning when the world had begun, but it was ultra fast. And I don't know what it is about hymns. They're so ridiculously high. And it took me the full first to finally kind of find my key. I was kind of, like, alto, then I was tenor, then I was bass. And then, like Yeah. Dance dance move wherever he may be.
[00:16:28] Unknown:
I tend to, like, just move my mouth, but, like, no sound comes out. I did that a lot. Yeah. I'm not even going there. I'm not even trying to be in tune.
[00:16:39] Unknown:
No. No. But it was lovely. And then, of course, some you know, I learned when when, like, the service is over, we we had to wheel her around, and the man said, it's always gotta be feet first. I was like, oh, okay. Oh. Yeah. Reason for that. And then we popped her back in the car, and then it was like, are you ladies gonna come to the cemetery and lower her into the ground? And I was like, well, yes. I've always wanted to do this sort of work. I want to see what it's all about. But bearing in mind, I have got, like, a frozen shoulder coming and stuff, and you wouldn't think such a tiny little lady could weigh that much, really.
But, you know, 4 of us hobbling over graves because it her grave was in between graves. And Oh my god. Given the white kind of ropey tape, had to, like, lower her down part by part and then said a prayer and sprinkled some earth on the head on the coffin and stuff. But I felt really humbled that he'd asked me to be a part of that. You know? Yeah. Absolutely. Yeah. Absolutely.
[00:17:48] Unknown:
And it I mean, precarious, though, lowering it down. I mean, because, you know, when you see men do it, they do it so diligently with such decorum and pose. And for 4 women, that's quite a hefty way, you know, to try and not look as if you're struggling or one of you falling.
[00:18:12] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, I did think one of the other ladies next to me I mean, she was quite a bit older than me, and I've just had visions of her falling in the pit.
[00:18:21] Unknown:
Oh god. Yeah. Yeah.
[00:18:23] Unknown:
So that was my In the pit? In the pit, in the hole, in the grave. And I don't mean to sound disrespectful because, you you know, I think her son would take it all in good faith. It was yeah. I've never done anything like that before. She had a wonderful service. And, you know, for her son who's mid seventies, how wonderful to have that long with your mom. You know? And she was like a cat that had 9 lives. Bless her. And she had an amazing life. I do love an eulogy where you get to hear all about that person.
[00:18:53] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. It's nice, isn't it? It really is nice. It is nice. Oh, bless her. Bless her. Yeah. So what are you what what are your future plans
[00:19:04] Unknown:
now that you have Now that I'm in tight. I'm gonna find a farmer. Are you? No. Darren Darren's gonna keep me. I'm just gonna, wash, have dinner on the table at 5 o'clock when he comes home from work. No. All set. I'm gonna push my photography business and do some agency work, and just have no commitments. You know? I'll still obviously be having my granddaughter one day a week, but it's really nice just you know, I've loved having a job where I've got sick pay and annual leave and stuff, but I also like the freedom if you think, oh, I'll pick up a shift here. I'll pick up a shift there. I wanna do this. And I've canceled my dog walker. You know? I was getting the dog walk 3 times a week, and it's like you think you have a dog, but you haven't got time to walk it.
Yeah. So we kept it Dog charges cost. Here come the stupid questions. No. No. It's not stupid. £12 for a walk, and he picks him up when he drops him home. And how long is a walk? Just over an hour. Oh, okay. So we then? Well, he's not. No. And, you know, he left, a bag of, like, dog treats, the Cooper's Christmas present on the side in the kitchen. Bless him. Oh, bless.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
Does he do your dog
[00:20:18] Unknown:
by himself, or is he taking It takes about 5 of them, Alvin. It's quite interesting because when he picks Cooper up and he pops him out in the van, you hear all the dogs barking and establishing
[00:20:28] Unknown:
him as the boss. You know? Like, calling for their make. Yeah. Yeah. Hurry up. Yeah. Why are you taking so long? But,
[00:20:35] Unknown:
you know, we've decided to keep him in one walk a week because then he, like, keeps up with his social friends. You know? Yeah. He's like a little baby. He has to keep socializing. Yeah. So Yeah.
[00:20:48] Unknown:
Oh, bless.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
So that's it. But what I did want to that's what I'm gonna do. But I wanted to bring up briefly Christmas outings because I know I mentioned this to you yesterday. And the whole love of the care home and stuff and believing that it was one of the best places that I've ever worked. I had a bit of a kick in the teeth, so to speak, yesterday. And Well, you did? I did. You know? I did the part. Just I don't it just nice? No. It's not nice. I mean, last year, I organized the works Christmas party, and I was supposed to be doing so this year. So we got a group chat going, and people are putting ideas. Somebody had mentioned about going somewhere, and people were like, oh, I can't make that date, blah blah blah.
Nothing else was actually said. And then on the Saturday morning yesterday, I see a picture that a few of them all went ahead and did their own little private thing, And I just felt a click in my teeth.
[00:21:49] Unknown:
Yeah. That is not one. That's totally snide behavior and coward at best and very disrespectful. It's awful. I I do not tolerate that behavior at all. Awful.
[00:22:08] Unknown:
Really of it though, isn't it, as well? Yeah. You know, I've been talking to a couple of them and saying about the idea, and I said, oh, I think it might be a bit expensive, but, you know, nobody said, oh, well, we've actually booked so and so.
[00:22:20] Unknown:
You know? Yeah. It's it could have been a really easy solution of, you know, for whatever reason, you didn't end up booking whatever. But then one of them or a couple of them could have easily said, oh, did so and so tell you this is what we're now doing? Be, you know, be at the bus stop for 5 o'clock or whatever the arrangements were.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
But no. No. That was very just makes me realize the clickiness in these workplaces. Yes. Like I said to you yesterday, my face doesn't fit. I'm probably too gobbie and what have you, but it's it is hurtful when you see that. And, then it's like, oh, we're gonna do something else if you wanna come, and I went, no. You're alright. No. Thanks. Dumb. Dumb. You shittled me once. Yeah. That's it. But there must be others that worked there as well that saw that post and thought, oh, oh, we didn't know about that. You know? But it is what it is. I'm over it now, but you just, you think you found this lovely place of work colleagues. I've never had work colleagues in my life, And then, actually, no, they weren't your true friends.
[00:23:26] Unknown:
No. But, hey, Jo. I my my view on sort of work relations is you are not, you know, it's almost like when people fall out with other people they don't really know, it's like, why why are you giving your energy to that? You know, don't don't worry about something you have no control over. Don't worry about people saying something that don't know you or not inviting you. They play no significant part in your life. They don't add to your life, your family life, your circle. So
[00:24:14] Unknown:
leave it at that. Yeah. Go to work and do your job.
[00:24:18] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. That really is my attitude. You know, I get on with the majority of people with my job. Would I socialize with them? Even the ones that I get on really well with outside of work? Absolutely not. No. No. I don't want to be friends with them on that level. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. Yeah.
[00:24:40] Unknown:
Well, I'm at that point now anyway. You you I always think there's a big saying, isn't there, that your true friends you can have on a on your one hand be fingers. And it's true. Yeah. May maybe more than one hand for me, but they're people that I haven't seen for ages, but you know that they're there if you need them. You know? And I I I was just about to say that I have a friend
[00:25:02] Unknown:
who I've known for 32 years, maybe a bit more. And we we seem to go in phases where, you know, we will speak to each other all the time and we'll probably meet up quite often. And then there will be months, if not, you know, 18 months, 2 years, where we hardly see each other and hardly speak to one another. But when we do, it's just like you're you're picking up from, like, yesterday. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. Now that's the true value of a friend that you don't have to have this conversation to go, oh, so sorry I've not been in touch. It doesn't matter, you know? No. No. You just pick up where you left off, don't you? Yeah. Yeah. It's that's not the the friendship. And they're the type of friends that you want. Like you said, they're the type of friends that you can count on one hand.
[00:26:00] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. So it's all a learning curve, isn't it? I mean, that's the first time I've been riled in a long time because I've been, like, bouncing along in life really happy, and I'm still really happy. But yesterday, every time I had a spare moment, I mean, driving up to you, oh, god. You just keep playing it over and over again, and you're just feeling so mad. But, yeah, it's gone today. It's done, dusted, lesson learned Good. Onwards.
[00:26:22] Unknown:
Good. Yeah. Good. Good. I think, you know, I sound like a little advert now, don't I? I think the future for you is very bright. You know? Too, miss, miss Meg.
[00:26:32] Unknown:
What do they call Mystic Meg? You're gonna give me a reading.
[00:26:36] Unknown:
You think the future's very bright. Everything. Yeah. You know, you you you're getting it in order, and you're very calm and very sort of you know, it's okay. It's it's gonna happen.
[00:26:49] Unknown:
Not stressed about it at all. That's a good way to be. It is. I'm quite lucky. I'm I'm with that with lots of things, and I hold a lot down to that saying it is what it is. You know? Because it is, isn't it? You can't do anything about it. You can get stressed about it, upset. And once you've gone through the emotions, which you're gonna have some emotion. And like I said, yesterday, it was mine. It was all day. I was a little bit on and off and annoyed. But today, it's it's done with. It is. It's done. Live and learn. Move on, Shelley. Yeah.
[00:27:16] Unknown:
Absolutely. Yeah. Absolutely. So what's what's the,
[00:27:20] Unknown:
sort of coming week holding for you? Are you out and about? Oh, I'm do you know what? I'm looking forward to Christmas Day when I've got nothing to do. I'm yeah, I've got my granddaughter tomorrow for the morning, and Maddie said, you know, do you want do you want me to pop her a nursery for the morning, or do you want her? I'm like, no. Bring her here. Means I can't have a lion, but when they're little, you just gotta you just gotta make the most of it, haven't you? And then Yeah. I've just we've squeezed everything in today. Me and Darren were at Audi at 10 o'clock, then we were at Tesco's at 11.
On a Sunday. On a Sunday. I know. I sat there in bed at half past 9, and I thought, do you know what? As much as I'd love to go back to sleep for an hour, I've got to get up and crack on. And literally now, it's just wrapping presents, and they're just getting scruffier and scruffier. You know, when you just lose the wheel, and you're just wrapping them up and just you don't care if the edges don't line up.
[00:28:17] Unknown:
Yeah. Yep. I used to be like that all the time. You know, it was all in the presentation. Everything had to be spot on. And I didn't have that in between stage that you've just said. You know, as you sort of go on, it gets messier and messier. I just don't bother now. I don't even bother. I don't even bother to god, this sounds awful. I don't even bother to wrap him. I'm just like, there you go. I I I have no patience with it at all. Well, that's like your little gift to shove it in a Christmas bag and salutate the top over. Job done. But you can't do that with kids. Yeah. Well, yes. Yes. There is that. There is that.
But, yeah, I I I as you know, I'm not a Christmas person. I feel, you know, going back to the whole pilot thing, I should be used to it, but I feel like I get cabin fever by it. I feel really trapped by it. So this year, I'm working. I'd rather not be working, but, you know, it is what it is. It is what it is. Yeah. Yep. I can almost use that as an excuse to go, you know, oh, sorry. Sorry, parents. Can't come over and see you. I'm far too busy working.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
You know? So I don't have to go through all of that. Oh, no. I haven't even written out Christmas cards. No. No. This is the 1st year, and what makes me laugh is about a month ago, I bought all these little knickknacks from, one of these shops to make my own. Who was I kidding? Wow. Yeah. The thought was there. Yeah. But I haven't done it. I'm not gonna have time now. And we all bought Christmas matching pyjamas. I was gonna do a photo of us. You know? I've got my own photography studio out there, and then I was gonna get all the pictures printed and put them on Christmas cards. No? I can't be bothered. Wow. This is the 1st year I've not done a Christmas card that's got a photo on it, but it is what it is. Yeah. I'm not stressing. I've said to mum, sorry. No card this year. So Well, that's a good note to finish on, isn't it? It is. It is. It is. Don't worry. Be happy. And it is what it is. Yeah. Well, we will let you go, young miss Jo Wood, because you're off to do a night shift.
[00:30:32] Unknown:
Oh, I know. I I just yeah. Don't know why don't know why I volunteered, really, but, you know,
[00:30:40] Unknown:
let's end the year on a good note and make other people happy. Yes. Yes. She loves going to work. Off she pops. Oh, jolly singing carols all the way.
[00:30:49] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. That'd be great. Yeah.
[00:30:52] Unknown:
Well, you have a good evening, my lovely, and I know we'll speak in the next few days. And, Yeah. We will do. Merry Christmas to all the listeners. Ho ho ho. Indeed. Thank you, young miss Jo Wood. I will speak to you in a few days. Alrighty. Take care, lovely. Bye bye. Bye. Bye bye. So that was first half. I'm gonna play a quick song, and then I've got the young Abby Matthews on. I'll give a brief about Abby after the song. But let's have let's have a little Christmas song so I can, get Abby on the Skype and stuff like that.
[00:31:36] Unknown:
You're all I want for Christmas. All I want my whole life through each day is just like Christmas. For Christmas. And if all my dreams come true, Then I'll away on Christmas morning and find mine stocking anytime that I would
[00:34:32] Unknown:
Oh, it's missed the last bit, but that was a nice song. Anyway, on with part 2 of the show. Now our next guest, Abby Matthews, I call her the jogger for joy. I mean, I don't think she jogs for joy. Well, she does. She jogs for other people's joy, but she always brings joy to those that see her. Abby was on some 5 months ago, I believe, when I did my first show of women's hour, and she'd inspired all of our town by running. And when you see her at traffic lights, she's got the pram with the baby in it, and she's doing star jumps and just acting mad. And there are a few people that have thought that she's a bit quackers, you know, but she is. She's just got an amazing sense of humor.
And now most people in our town, when they see her, they know who she is, and she regularly blogs. She's just a breath of fresh air. So I thought this evening, it would be great to get her back on and, see her progress because I've been following her. So let's see. She wasn't expecting me for another 5 minutes. So she should be there unless she's put the kitties to bed. 5 minutes before or after. Right. I'll try her again in a couple of minutes. Bless her. She has got 3 kiddies to look after. And, yeah. So I was saying, you know, we've we've been following Abby ever since we've seen her, and it's like, these are the people these are the women that, they're inspirational. They bring so much joy. And I think Abby's even had a pair of trainers bought for her.
She's had some phone calls to the police actually as well about, like, we think there's a drunk person out running about. And police have come out to check on her, and I think she's got a bit upset thinking she's got a few haters out there. But like I said to her, you're always gonna have haters. Just let them go. Just concentrate on the good people out there. Right. She's online. Let's go again. I'm still 3 minutes early. I won't keep ringing her because it could be it could be stressful. I'm just gonna say pop me a call. Pop me a call. So you just have to bear with me a couple of minutes, guys. So how are you doing for Christmas? You stressed? Are you ready?
It all comes together in the end, doesn't it? I've said this every year. And, you know, I've got older children and a younger child. So my eldest is 27, and my youngest is 11. And, effectively, I've been doing Christmas for 27 years. 27 years of early starts on Christmas Day, stressful night sleep because I'm always worried, you know, they keep coming in. I mean, last year was the most that my youngest had ever been that excited, and he was up every hour. And, you know, Christmas day comes, and you're absolutely exhausted.
So I'm kind of relieved. We're gonna have a nice lion. I'm gonna have a walk on the dog. Walk on the dog. I keep getting all my words back to front at the moment because I am just, like, so busy. I'm gonna have a walk on the beach with my dog, and then my parents are gonna come come up for dinner. Here she is. Good evening, Abby. Can you hear me, lovely? Oh, hello. Yes. I can. How are you doing, my lovely? Oh, good. Thank you. Good. I'm sorry I've called you a few minutes early. I'm a stickler for time usually, but Jo left early, and I'm like, right. And then I thought, no. I bet she's still putting her children to bed.
[00:38:46] Unknown:
Oh, no. So are I done?
[00:38:48] Unknown:
No. That's alright. So I just wanted to check-in on you because since we spoke well, I think it's about 5 months ago, you're still out there doing your thing, inspiring our town, and I I call you my little jogger for joy. Like I've just said to the listeners, you're not necessarily jogging for joy, but you bring a lot of joy to other people.
[00:39:08] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. I do. I've had loads of people come up to me in the supermarket saying, you're amazing what you do. Keep doing what you're doing. Because I've obviously I've had a lot of hate towards me recently and How can people hate you
[00:39:24] Unknown:
for for running?
[00:39:27] Unknown:
I know. I find it I find it crazy as well, and, obviously, I've been called horrible names as well. Names aren't the nicest or pleasant to say on the radio. But, yeah, I've had so I've now I've created my own group because lots of people have, have given me a lot of hate for it. So, I've created my own page now. So, hopefully, now those that do enjoy watching me and my videos,
[00:39:58] Unknown:
they can join on. Yeah. What's your page called, Abby, if you don't if you wish? I'll try it. I thought I joined it, but I can't find it.
[00:40:09] Unknown:
I think it was, keeping Camborn positive or something.
[00:40:14] Unknown:
Oh, right. Love it. So you've stopped posting on the what's going on Cambourne page then?
[00:40:20] Unknown:
Well, I am now because I had a message saying, I don't know. It was from an anonymous. It was someone I don't know saying they wrote saying, we've reached we've reached our goals or something. And I think I kind of took over their page, and I don't know if they were happy. So I've I've thought, well, I'll do my own page, and then those that want to continue following my journey can just come on to this page, then there'll be hopefully no more drama touch words. But who knows? I always seem to find that somewhere just by running. But
[00:40:53] Unknown:
yeah. But So so you've had a little incident. You've had, a couple of police pull you up, haven't you, to see if you're okay?
[00:41:01] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. Yeah. I've had the police come over because they think I've I've had people report me saying they think I'm intoxicated because I I run and dance and do my thing. And, yeah, I just find it really crazy why people would go out their way just to waste well, at least waste police time and just to stop me for just what being happy, dancing, and doing
[00:41:28] Unknown:
doing my own thing. Yeah. I mean, I wonder if there's a few of these that are, like, elderly people, and they are thinking, do you know I'm worried about that young lady? Perhaps she needs help, and she's not very well. There might have been a few genuine people out there with nothing better to do, but then I'm sure you've got, like you say, your little jealous, petty people. They just don't like to see anybody making them anything of themselves. You know? Why why shouldn't you, like, show you videos of what you're doing and bring positivity about?
[00:41:58] Unknown:
Yeah. I just find I just that's all I'm about. I'm not I'm not trying to make anyone feel like, no one has to feel jealous of me. I just wanna spread the joy because I feel we lack it down here. Like, a lot of people say, yeah. You do bring that joy. You do make me push through the day. I've had loads of messages of people saying, you carry on doing you. You've inspired me to move more or do this or do that, and it's it's actually really nice. And I've tried to make a difference. I've even helped homeless. Like, I've I've gone out my way and bought I know a lot of people do that as well, and I came home and cooked a homeless person a pizza, and I I got a little bit of stick for doing that as well. It sort of just goes a bit crazy
[00:42:42] Unknown:
sometimes online, doesn't it? Oh, it does. They're just keyboard warriors, and I noticed lots of these people with these groups, they all write anonymously, don't they?
[00:42:52] Unknown:
Yeah. I do find that. I mean, I just say if you've got an issue with me, try and private message me. I'm not a nasty person. I don't give out hate. It would just be nice just to be, like, adults, a mature adult just to, message me and say, oh, hi. I I do like what you're doing, but such and such. But I know a lot of people do like to write it in the comments to, I don't know, maybe show their faces a little bit. I'm I'm not sure. I don't know why people and rat well, it's jealousy a lot of it, I think. You know, they see somebody out there doing well.
[00:43:26] Unknown:
You know, how could you write a yeah. I really like you, Abby, and what you're doing, but you fed a homeless person. How dare you? Shame on you. Perhaps if there are a few more Abbeys around, the world would be a greater place.
[00:43:39] Unknown:
Yeah. I I just I just feel like everyone goes through tough times, and I just think I might be going through a tough time, but I just I still wanna show that positivity, that smile, and energy. I wanna give back to people and make them feel happy even if it's just for a minute of their day. I know I've made them smile. That's all I'm about, but Yeah. I suppose some people just don't understand or don't like it or which is fair enough. You don't have to like everybody in this world.
[00:44:12] Unknown:
Of course you don't know. If if anything, my only criticism, hubby, is can you run a bit slower? And then when I'm driving past you, I can slow down, and I've got time to shout and beep. I'm, like, driving by, and I'm like beep beep beep beep.
[00:44:25] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. No. It's lovely. I do love hearing the bit, and so does my daughter. She's waving and shouting hello. She loves she just loves the attention, but she'll be going to nursery soon. So but it's quite sad because she is my Yeah. My little main role, isn't he?
[00:44:44] Unknown:
Oh, I don't know. I don't know. It's, yeah. She does play a massive part in the videos, but I think it's all, you know, you're the works. We gotta watch you. And, somebody even bought you a pair of trainers, didn't they?
[00:44:57] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. I've had trainers bought for me. I've I I was really shocked, and it's just there are there are so many lovely people. And I think, like, people says, you get you will get negative people. You're not gonna be able to please everyone, which I understand. I've I've always wanted to please everyone, but I've now realized you can't keep pleasing everyone because not everybody likes your style. Not everybody likes what you do. So I think I'm pleased in the ones that do like what I'm doing, and I was really grateful because they weren't cheap because running trainers aren't cheap. And I was you know, it was just love it was such a lovely gesture of him. So Yeah. I would say.
[00:45:39] Unknown:
You know, have you have you got a sponsor yet or anything? There's gotta be people out there who want to sponsor you, Abby.
[00:45:46] Unknown:
Oh, no. I mean, I I mean, I've had people ask me about if I could help them out with charities and things. And I've tried I do try, and I'm always trying to promote people as best as I can. And, obviously, I've had Taylor tires set my pushchair wheels for free and things. So, I mean, that everyone has been lovely. I mean, I've had probably, what, 5% 5, 10% of negative comments, but or people that just don't like it. But then I've just gotta get over that now and think I will I will continue because I've been running since I was 17. So I'm now 26. So no no nobody or nothing's gonna stop me from running. I'm still gonna continue being me, being the silly me. I know my dancers are a bit cringe, and I That's brilliant. That's what it's all about. I know I haven't got rhythm. I've never had rhythm.
I'm sometimes clumsy when I'm running with the dog or running with the pusher, but I still I still get out there, and I'll go out in all weathers, any weathers every day. And I just love it. I just love that feeling of big going going for a run and
[00:46:56] Unknown:
yeah. Just Yeah. Yeah. Don't let anybody stop you. I always think it's interesting that the amount of feedback. I remember doing a photography job many years ago for a school, and out of probably about 450 children, 2 parents complained that they weren't happy with their pictures. And it was like, all I could think about was those 2 people out of 450 people. And in my right mind now, it's like, you're never gonna please everybody. We'll just focus on all those other people that you made really happy.
[00:47:26] Unknown:
You know? Yeah. No. Because I was I was, like, scamming through. I was, let's see how many negatives. I was I was going out to look out for the negatives, and that was making me feel quite rubbish. And I I've now I've stopped that. I've if anybody does leave a negative comment, I'll just I'll look at it, and it's just scroll past now because I'm not making myself look like a fool or anything. I'm just there just to try and have fun, enjoy life.
[00:47:52] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. And if they're on your page trolling you and stuff, you just need to delete and block over and done with it. Well
[00:48:00] Unknown:
well, no. I'm just happy now. I've and I've managed to get a few followers now on my new one.
[00:48:08] Unknown:
I should say that you're still doing your TikTok page as well.
[00:48:12] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, like, if anyone wants to follow me on TikTok, I'm happy. Just go on TikTok or my my new page is positive vibes around. And I've got 298 followers already. So I've Wow. I've gained and that was not long put up, so I've gained quite a few. So there there is quite a few supporters.
[00:48:32] Unknown:
I just Oh, it's amazing.
[00:48:36] Unknown:
It's amazing. To hear.
[00:48:38] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, if we didn't admire what you're doing, it wouldn't be like, oh, I need a guest. I need to get Abby on tonight. You know? Let's think of that inspiring women because that's what this show is, all about ultimately. People like you that make changes and, you know, you're out you're not out for anybody. You're out for yourself to have a good time. And, you know, you've got 3 little babies. Well, now I know they're not all babies, but, you know, 3 kitties to look after. And, you know, in your spare time, you're giving everybody else that positive vibe. And I bet it's a bit mental in your house at the moment, isn't it?
[00:49:10] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Especially with Christmas, and it is just nice to once you've done everything and you've had excited children, it is nice just to get out for that run just to breathe and relax.
[00:49:21] Unknown:
Yeah. I might try it. I might try it. I don't know. People do say you get bad knees from running. Look at me. I'm finding the negative before I've even started. I just don't like exercise. I've had so many injuries, but I'm like, no pain, no game. I'm going. Yeah. Yeah. So Do do you get any, like, problems if you got, like, a runner's knee or stuff like that?
[00:49:46] Unknown:
I'd occasionally, my knees might hurt, but sometimes it might hurt for, like, a day, and then it's back to normal again. I do try to stretch as best I can, but it's just trying to get everything all in. But I do try, but it's
[00:50:02] Unknown:
And then you say, like, you you feel amazing after. I mean, people talk about this high when you've been for a run. I've never experienced it.
[00:50:10] Unknown:
Is it Oh, no. Real high? It is. It's a real I I'm really buzzed, and it's that's why I think people think I am a bit of a cray I am crazy because it's just once you finish, you feel like you just I don't know. It's just really hard to explain. It's just a it's such an amazing feeling. It's just
[00:50:30] Unknown:
you just feel, oh, I feel Alarm. Good after. Yeah. I suppose the endorphins are running you like, I can do anything.
[00:50:37] Unknown:
Let's get And then when you've got people when you've got people beeping, cheering you on, it's just such a lot it's just so lovely to hear and see. It's Yeah. And Alaya loves it because she's always smiling in the videos and that. She loves it. She loves the attention.
[00:50:54] Unknown:
Yeah. And she does a little bit of a dance as well, doesn't she? I think I saw one of your videos on TikToks, and she had tinsel around her and stuff, and you're doing Christmassy songs. And, oh, it's just lovely.
[00:51:05] Unknown:
Yeah. She's she's my, my older 2 are probably they well, my oldest finds me a little bit embarrassing, but then I am her mum. That's probably what I meant to do anyhow. Yeah. You're right there. Yeah.
[00:51:18] Unknown:
So I suppose the 3 of them in the house excited for father Christmas to come. Oh my gosh. I I was just saying to the listeners, you know, this is my my son's with his dad this year, and he was up every hour last year. And I'm kind of like, I'm glad of a rest. But my daughter's like, it's the best day of the year, mom. I mean, what time do you expect yours to start getting up on Christmas day?
[00:51:42] Unknown:
Well, probably could be 5 o'clock, 6 o'clock. My oldest, she's she's so excited, and she's been counting down. She's telling me, there's only 3 more days left, mommy, and father Christmas will be here, and
[00:51:56] Unknown:
we'll be opening presents. And, oh, she's just so excited. Bless her. Oh, but it's just magical for them, isn't it? And, I mean, I think that's what it's all about. I don't think I've had that real Christmas vibe this year, but I've not been feeling a 100%. But I went to watch my son at the carol service, and it's like, oh, god. Look at them. And this is his last year in primary school. It's it's all about them, isn't it?
[00:52:19] Unknown:
Yeah. Bless them.
[00:52:21] Unknown:
And they grow up so fast, don't they? And it's like, oh, you just want them to stay babies for as long as you can, but they grow up so fast. They do. I mean, my I have my 18 month old granddaughter tomorrow. I have a one day a week, and, you know, she's just taught now. They're not babies for more than 5 minutes, are they? No. It's like, oh, where did that tiniest go? I know. So you gotta make the most of it. Absolutely make the most of it. But I still I I don't like getting up early in the mornings, but, I always remember my dad dad saying to me once, he used to love when he was younger looking out the windows on Christmas day, and you see all the lights switching on, and you just know most people, fingers crossed, are having a lovely time, and it's just magical for the children.
[00:53:06] Unknown:
Yeah. It is lovely. I love seeing the lights with the little ones. They it's just there's they always got such a buzz smile, and and that was another thing. I had ladies stop me saying, does that does your little girl ever not smile? Because all every time I see her, she's always smiling. I said, that's what she she just she is. We're just happy people.
[00:53:27] Unknown:
Wow. I bet she gets that from her mom, doesn't it? If you're in a good, happy, positive, household, then it's gonna reflect on you, isn't it, onto your children. Because Yeah. How old are your older 2 then?
[00:53:41] Unknown:
My son's 4, and my oldest is 7.
[00:53:44] Unknown:
Right. Oh, these are magical ages. And what are you doing on Christmas day this year then?
[00:53:51] Unknown:
We'll probably have all our family over, open all our presents and eat a nice roast, I think. And I'll probably go for a run after because Really? It's just like a normal yeah. I do yeah. I will there are people who think I'm crazy, but, yeah, I'll probably go for a run after after in in the evenings and things once I've eaten too much. And I probably will feel bad that I've eaten too much, and I'll be like, I gotta shift this now.
[00:54:20] Unknown:
God. I have a day off, girl. I have a day off. Do you go out running in the dark, do you?
[00:54:27] Unknown:
Yeah. But I do change my roots and things, but I always try and stay where there's lots of traffic. So
[00:54:34] Unknown:
Yeah. Because I read an article this week about people that they said it was the worst time of you know, they they regularly run, and they regularly run-in the evenings. But with the darker evenings, there's been the whole fear factor that comes in.
[00:54:48] Unknown:
Yeah. No. I I get that. I don't know. A lot of people, I think they do worry, but I think I can always live in fear, but I know I've got to I do stay where I'm safe and where there's people around. And I'm always filming. So You got your phone with you. Yeah. And have have you got one of those personal alarms as well? Oh, yeah. I've got that set. So I know so everything's I am quite I've come with a corset because, obviously, I am a mom of 3. I don't wanna risk not seeing my children.
[00:55:21] Unknown:
No. Absolutely. And they they are such a good idea, actually. I've I've ordered one for my daughter. Not that she goes out running, but she she goes to the gym at 5 o'clock in the morning and stuff. And it's just it's just a little add on, isn't it, really? But, I mean, you don't wanna be worrying too much about things like that. But at least if you're prepared for it, then, you know, you're just taking all the safety measures you can, really, aren't you? And I think if the police are following me around, most of the time no. No. They have to. I think I'll be alright. You've got your own personal little, security team there around you.
[00:55:53] Unknown:
I think that's what it is. They probably just want my autograph, really.
[00:55:58] Unknown:
We all do. So have you got any plans for the new year, Abby, with the run-in? Anything you set in? Any new achievements that you want to reach?
[00:56:07] Unknown:
I think, just see how it goes. I'm just gonna continue doing what I do and try and hopefully cheer more people up. And if I can help people, I will.
[00:56:18] Unknown:
Definitely. You could do a little thing, couldn't you, that you, like, pick people up on the way. If you've got, like, a circular route and somebody wants to join you, you can run to their house, knock on their door, and then pick them up, and then go onto another house. It could be quite cool.
[00:56:32] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, if anyone wants to join me in January to start the fresh year of being a housekick and all come out for a run or a dance.
[00:56:41] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. You might you you never know. I might be up for it one night, Abby. I'm I'm doing dry January, and I might be up for a giggle. If I don't drink, I'll be looking for something to do. Maybe running is the key thing.
[00:56:58] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. No. I do I just find running so addictive. But I think once I start, I just can't stop. It's just
[00:57:05] Unknown:
Yeah. That see, that is just craziness to me. People say that about the gym, and I'm just like, I don't get it. Don't get it. I've joined several times, and I never go. But, anyway, who knows? Here's to New Year's resolutions and stuff like that. So yeah. Well, thank you for your time, my lovely. It's been great to have a catch up. Like I say, it's, like, probably about 5 months on, and I just wanted to Oh, yeah. Well get your voice out there again. Oh, thank you. No. You're welcome. Well, I wish you a lovely Christmas with your children, my lovely, and I will keep, keep beeping when I see you. And, you know Oh, yes.
I did go and ask you a couple of days ago, and I bet there's loads of cars. They're out of distance. You're thinking, who was that? Who was that? But I guess you don't know what these people are. Well, you have a wonderful Christmas, my lovely, and, I'll speak to you again soon in the new year. You have to come on and tell us about what's going on. Thank you so much, Abby. You take care of yourself. Bye bye. Bye. Bye. Thanks. And that is what this show is about, supposedly. You know, it's taken a change over the last few months. Still kind of, like, finding my feet, but, ultimately, I want it to be about strong women. And, there's so many strong women in our towns that we don't know about. It doesn't, you know, doesn't have to be the ones that are in the public eye.
If you know anybody out there that's got a story to share or, you know, you think that they would, be a good guest, please do get in contact. It's [email protected]. And I do have to give a shout out to my cousin, actually. I visited her today. Hi, Tracy. I told her I'd give a little shout out to her. Bless her. And with that, this is, well, the last show before Christmas, so we've got one more before the New Year. I wish you all a prosperous and amazing Christmas. And for those of you that are gonna be by yourself and struggle, just remember it's one day, one day, And shout out to people because I'm sure there are enough people out there that wanna help somebody that, you know, wants to give somebody a shoulder for whatever reason.
But I wish you all joy and love and a merry, merry Christmas. I'll see you again next week.
Good evening to all of the beautiful women out there, including the old gentlemen listening in too. As I say, I know they listen in. I know Jo's there because I can hear her scraping something. She obviously doesn't realize how noisy she is. You are listening to Women's Hour. We are live on Sunday, 22nd December 2024. It's good to have your company. We are also streaming live via Rumble. Look at my name, Shelley Tasker. And if you'd like to leave in any comment and join me in the chat, please feel do feel free to do so. So good evening, young Jo.
How are you?
[00:01:35] Unknown:
How are you?
[00:01:37] Unknown:
I'm probably a bit like you, a bit exhausted, but I'm not out to do a night shift, so I couldn't think of anything worse.
[00:01:46] Unknown:
I know. I don't even know what possessed me. I really, really don't, but there you go. No rest for the wicked, so they say. And you are wicked.
[00:01:57] Unknown:
Wicked in every way. Wow. It's been a busier week, my dear, hasn't it?
[00:02:04] Unknown:
Hasn't it just? Hasn't it? Very busy. Very busy.
[00:02:09] Unknown:
Joe's been extremely busy organizing the rally for the tractors, and I got to join in on the day and have a lovely ride. It was about 30 tractors that left Carling Cross in Truro, Cornwall, and we headed up to Cornwall Services to just under 2 hours, actually, but it was fun, wasn't it, Jo?
[00:02:32] Unknown:
It was. It was a good turnout. I was very, very happy with that. And the weather wasn't too bad, was it, really? Wasn't really too bad?
[00:02:44] Unknown:
No. Decent weather. And then tractors that poured out the rain. Yeah. Exactly. But it was cold. But my crikey, those tractors are warm, aren't they? Aren't they just? Can they?
[00:02:58] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. I mean, you you you had a sunroof in yours, so I was somewhat slightly envious.
[00:03:05] Unknown:
I didn't study it that much, to be fair. I was intrigued, but I didn't look up. But I should imagine in summertime bit for Lowtown, didn't you, on what does what and how to drive it? Yeah. Yeah. I could be a farmer's wife. I really could.
[00:03:21] Unknown:
Oh, I think you could be a farmer. Come on. Where's that I can fly a plane attitude? Oh, I'm sorry. Yeah. I can fly a plane. You you could drive a tractor.
[00:03:32] Unknown:
I can. Or one of those little, mini things that we went around on yesterday. Myself and Jo also got to visit the lovely farmer that I had a tractor ride with. He kindly let me and Jo intrude on him at his farm, and we were shown around. And, oh, it's fascinating, wasn't it, Joe?
[00:03:51] Unknown:
Oh, gosh. Yeah. Yeah. It really you know, I've sort of have 14 years background of the veterinary industry and and farmers, so I sort of have a very basic, broad understanding. But when you actually physically see it, you know, when you're on the ground, when you're in it, it's fascinating. And you know me and my stupid questions, like, oh, so what does this piece of metal work do? How does the cow put its head through there? What does that do? I love it. Yeah. But I learned a lot yesterday because of those questions
[00:04:26] Unknown:
you were asking. So, roll on round 2. I mean, that was an hour we were there for and just looking where where all of the slush goes. What do they call that? The sluice? Slurry. Slurry. The slurry. I mean, I can't remember how how big it was. I mean, it was a swimming pool. Not that I'd like to go swimming in it.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Yeah. Almost. I would say probably
[00:04:51] Unknown:
He did tell us, didn't he?
[00:04:53] Unknown:
About well, he did. Yeah. I'd I'd I was saturated at that point. I think it's almost just probably half the size of an Olympic swimming pool size. Right. It's pretty damn big. Pretty damn big.
[00:05:11] Unknown:
And I smell like cow urine all evening. And what made me laugh was before we left to go, I cooked a bacon sandwich, and I thought, oh, I'm better. I'm smelling a bacon. So I sprayed myself with, aerosol just so I wouldn't smell and, you know, like anyone was gonna notice.
[00:05:33] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, it's funny because after you had said that to me, I was like, oh, I wonder if I do. And there was a slight aroma on my coat. However, I didn't get close to the cows. You did. You were stroking them. You were right in there. I was right in there. Right in there.
[00:05:54] Unknown:
No. I loved it.
[00:05:55] Unknown:
Tested. And I think the highlight was the rogue
[00:06:01] Unknown:
calf that was like, nah. I'm not following the harp. I'm so sorry. My own way. Yeah. Me and Jo just stood there trying to, like, guide it in, and I was even guiding it in the wrong way at one point. It's like, not my direction. But did you notice they didn't even have coats on, Jo? They just have, like, their coats. Their onesies on, don't they? They're they're little farm outfit. Yeah.
[00:06:25] Unknown:
It took 3 men to literally get this calf. I mean, the calf was, like, not having any of it. It was giving them the runaround. And I think I think in total, there was probably 3 guys along with our farmer that we were visiting, and 2 of them, including our farmer, did not wear wellies. No. I know. The thing I told you. The farmer just had, like when I say trainers, they weren't, like, you know, normal trainers. They were sort of heavy industrial trainers, if there's such a thing. But I'm like and then he lost his shoe halfway trying to get the calf, carried on for a couple of strides with a wet sock. I'm like, oh my giddy arm. Yep. Yep. We got a lot to thank these guys for. It was
[00:07:15] Unknown:
it was fascinating, but, you know, I'm glad I've befriended a farmer. And I do feel now that if ever I get the need, if I need something, a cow, I'd do a bit of sweet talking. You know?
[00:07:28] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, it's interesting because the farmer spoke about sort of, you know, what time they've gotta get up, what time they finish their jobs, and they're always outside, always in the elements, always walking around. And you imagine doing that day in, day out. There must come a point where you're just, like, physically exhausted, but then they have to get up the same time the following morning and do it all over again. Yeah. It's a way of life, isn't it? It's I've and interestingly, he is a second generation farmer.
[00:08:09] Unknown:
But lots of these farmers, they are born into it, aren't they? So they don't really know any different. They've grown up just seeing this day in and day out and becoming part of
[00:08:18] Unknown:
it. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. It was a very enjoyable hour, and it was an enjoyable it was an enjoyable rally. It really was a sight to behold that many tractors. And I just need to state for anybody out there that perhaps isn't on the same logical page as the rest of us, they were traveling at a safe distance. They were roadworthy. They were insured, and they did not take up all of the carriageway. They stayed in one lane. And I'll just emphasize that point. The farmer that I was driving with, I wanted to go full on rogue. I wanted to, like, be taken over the blooming yeah. The universe, let alone flipping 2, 3 lanes.
But he talked me down from the ledge and he was like, no. It's really not safe. The the road is wet. We've got big lorries. You know, so these guys are really mindful of everything. And I can't stress the point enough about being custodians of the land. They are, but they're also this sounds so deep, but they are also custodians of life. And just illustrating that point of me wanting to go rogue for somebody else's benefit, and they were saying, no. Let's let's look at the objectives. It's it's where it could possibly cause x, y, and zed. You know, we're better off in a single file. These guys aren't, you know, out to get loads of money. They ain't god, that was very slang like, wasn't it? Yeah. They ain't.
They're they're they're not they're not, you know, trying to pull a fast one on the public. The and I the more I learn, the more I feel really passionate about it that they have had such a bum deal for decades. And the powers that be have allowed the general populace to form a ill educated opinion on what is actually not true. These guys as you said, it's a way of life for them. These guys do it because that's their life. It's a vocation.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
Definitely. And you ladies out there that are single, farmers need wives. So if you've got horses and a love of animals and a love of being at nature, get yourself a farmer.
[00:10:59] Unknown:
Absolutely. Yeah. They may with the horse thing because it's a well known fact. Farmers don't particularly care for horses on their land. They like horses, but horses tend to churn up the land quite a bit.
[00:11:15] Unknown:
Yeah. Unlike the cows, the story of the cows yesterday, interestingly, I can't remember what he said what type of breed they were, but they're very lazy and from moving The Sorry? They're host Holston.
[00:11:29] Unknown:
Holston. Holston. Holston. You know, like a gun holster? These are holston. So there's Friesian cows, which are the black and white ones, and these Holston cows are very black and white. But as you said, they're very lazy. They're not like Friesian cows. These ones are lazy.
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Yeah. That's the sort of cow that I would wanna be if I ever came back as a cow. I'm
[00:11:55] Unknown:
like, what a life. I just get to move around very slowly. Forty kilos of feed they eat in a day per cow. That's a lot that's a lot of food. They just eat. And then and I'm just like, you know what? I'd like that life.
[00:12:14] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. So joyous. And I and I loved the whole little ride. I don't know what that was in. It was like a golf buggy. But my god, did he put his foot down on that? I tell you what. It didn't hang about, did it? No. That was good fun. That was like being on a fair ride. They could always make money like that. First.
[00:12:37] Unknown:
At one point, I thought we were gonna tip over. Yeah. I did. When it when it started to smoke and you could smell rubber, I'm like, oh, that's it. Our days are done. We're gonna go up in flames.
[00:12:51] Unknown:
In a little golf trolley thing. Yeah. Golf buggy. No. It was good. Yeah. It's a good end to the year for the whole activism stuff. Go out on a high, and, obviously, back in January, there will be lots more.
[00:13:07] Unknown:
Yes. Yes. Yeah. That's a good way to round it up. That was a good end to the year, that little hour.
[00:13:13] Unknown:
Yeah. So how about apart from farming and stuff, what else have you been up to?
[00:13:20] Unknown:
What else well, do you know what? I don't think I've been doing anything else other than working and, farming stuff. I don't you know, I think I said to you recently, oh, I just feel like I haven't really
[00:13:38] Unknown:
done enough during the year. Know how you can say that.
[00:13:43] Unknown:
No. I mean, I still feel like that. But when I sort of, you know, make myself look back and almost list what I've done, I'm like, no wonder I'm so tired because I have actually done quite a bit, but it still feels like I haven't. So in answer to your question, I haven't really done anything, Karel, other than work, and farming stuff. I'd I I would like to do nothing if if Yeah. You like to do nothing, don't you? Yeah. Excuse me. My voice is going. I do. You you get bored, don't you? But I don't.
[00:14:22] Unknown:
I mean, I would love to have a free day at the moment. And, I mean, this was my last week before Christmas, like, lots of people. When I finished my job on Monday, and then I thought, oh, I've got 4 days left. I can just potter around, get things ready. But, no, I have to be flying a bit like you, and, you know, it is what it is. But on Friday, I went to a funeral, and, you know, our regular listeners will know that we like the whole chat about death and stuff like that. And it was a 94 year old woman that I looked after in the nursing home, and, oh, it was a beautiful service. And I was asked to be one of the bearers, and it was 4 of us women that did it.
And, cool, that was another lesson in itself, like, putting the coffin on, like, the wheels. And then they were like, don't hold on to the actual handles on the coffin because they're just for show. And on the trolley, they've they've got these, like, little handles that you pull out to wheel along. I mean, it gives you a bit of backache. So, you know, we went in, and it was a lovely service. And the vicar absolutely she was hilarious. I don't know if anybody else found her hilarious, but I did. You know? She had a nose pierced and stuff, and she was telling a story about Greta's life. And then she turned and looked at the coffin, and she said, crikey, Greta. You've been busy, haven't you?
And there was a couple of times that she did that, and I've never seen a vicar do anything like that, speak to the coffin like they were there. You know? Really nice. Yeah. It was nice. And then, like, you know, the first hymn, they did that dance in the morning when the world had begun, but it was ultra fast. And I don't know what it is about hymns. They're so ridiculously high. And it took me the full first to finally kind of find my key. I was kind of, like, alto, then I was tenor, then I was bass. And then, like Yeah. Dance dance move wherever he may be.
[00:16:28] Unknown:
I tend to, like, just move my mouth, but, like, no sound comes out. I did that a lot. Yeah. I'm not even going there. I'm not even trying to be in tune.
[00:16:39] Unknown:
No. No. But it was lovely. And then, of course, some you know, I learned when when, like, the service is over, we we had to wheel her around, and the man said, it's always gotta be feet first. I was like, oh, okay. Oh. Yeah. Reason for that. And then we popped her back in the car, and then it was like, are you ladies gonna come to the cemetery and lower her into the ground? And I was like, well, yes. I've always wanted to do this sort of work. I want to see what it's all about. But bearing in mind, I have got, like, a frozen shoulder coming and stuff, and you wouldn't think such a tiny little lady could weigh that much, really.
But, you know, 4 of us hobbling over graves because it her grave was in between graves. And Oh my god. Given the white kind of ropey tape, had to, like, lower her down part by part and then said a prayer and sprinkled some earth on the head on the coffin and stuff. But I felt really humbled that he'd asked me to be a part of that. You know? Yeah. Absolutely. Yeah. Absolutely.
[00:17:48] Unknown:
And it I mean, precarious, though, lowering it down. I mean, because, you know, when you see men do it, they do it so diligently with such decorum and pose. And for 4 women, that's quite a hefty way, you know, to try and not look as if you're struggling or one of you falling.
[00:18:12] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, I did think one of the other ladies next to me I mean, she was quite a bit older than me, and I've just had visions of her falling in the pit.
[00:18:21] Unknown:
Oh god. Yeah. Yeah.
[00:18:23] Unknown:
So that was my In the pit? In the pit, in the hole, in the grave. And I don't mean to sound disrespectful because, you you know, I think her son would take it all in good faith. It was yeah. I've never done anything like that before. She had a wonderful service. And, you know, for her son who's mid seventies, how wonderful to have that long with your mom. You know? And she was like a cat that had 9 lives. Bless her. And she had an amazing life. I do love an eulogy where you get to hear all about that person.
[00:18:53] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. It's nice, isn't it? It really is nice. It is nice. Oh, bless her. Bless her. Yeah. So what are you what what are your future plans
[00:19:04] Unknown:
now that you have Now that I'm in tight. I'm gonna find a farmer. Are you? No. Darren Darren's gonna keep me. I'm just gonna, wash, have dinner on the table at 5 o'clock when he comes home from work. No. All set. I'm gonna push my photography business and do some agency work, and just have no commitments. You know? I'll still obviously be having my granddaughter one day a week, but it's really nice just you know, I've loved having a job where I've got sick pay and annual leave and stuff, but I also like the freedom if you think, oh, I'll pick up a shift here. I'll pick up a shift there. I wanna do this. And I've canceled my dog walker. You know? I was getting the dog walk 3 times a week, and it's like you think you have a dog, but you haven't got time to walk it.
Yeah. So we kept it Dog charges cost. Here come the stupid questions. No. No. It's not stupid. £12 for a walk, and he picks him up when he drops him home. And how long is a walk? Just over an hour. Oh, okay. So we then? Well, he's not. No. And, you know, he left, a bag of, like, dog treats, the Cooper's Christmas present on the side in the kitchen. Bless him. Oh, bless.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
Does he do your dog
[00:20:18] Unknown:
by himself, or is he taking It takes about 5 of them, Alvin. It's quite interesting because when he picks Cooper up and he pops him out in the van, you hear all the dogs barking and establishing
[00:20:28] Unknown:
him as the boss. You know? Like, calling for their make. Yeah. Yeah. Hurry up. Yeah. Why are you taking so long? But,
[00:20:35] Unknown:
you know, we've decided to keep him in one walk a week because then he, like, keeps up with his social friends. You know? Yeah. He's like a little baby. He has to keep socializing. Yeah. So Yeah.
[00:20:48] Unknown:
Oh, bless.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
So that's it. But what I did want to that's what I'm gonna do. But I wanted to bring up briefly Christmas outings because I know I mentioned this to you yesterday. And the whole love of the care home and stuff and believing that it was one of the best places that I've ever worked. I had a bit of a kick in the teeth, so to speak, yesterday. And Well, you did? I did. You know? I did the part. Just I don't it just nice? No. It's not nice. I mean, last year, I organized the works Christmas party, and I was supposed to be doing so this year. So we got a group chat going, and people are putting ideas. Somebody had mentioned about going somewhere, and people were like, oh, I can't make that date, blah blah blah.
Nothing else was actually said. And then on the Saturday morning yesterday, I see a picture that a few of them all went ahead and did their own little private thing, And I just felt a click in my teeth.
[00:21:49] Unknown:
Yeah. That is not one. That's totally snide behavior and coward at best and very disrespectful. It's awful. I I do not tolerate that behavior at all. Awful.
[00:22:08] Unknown:
Really of it though, isn't it, as well? Yeah. You know, I've been talking to a couple of them and saying about the idea, and I said, oh, I think it might be a bit expensive, but, you know, nobody said, oh, well, we've actually booked so and so.
[00:22:20] Unknown:
You know? Yeah. It's it could have been a really easy solution of, you know, for whatever reason, you didn't end up booking whatever. But then one of them or a couple of them could have easily said, oh, did so and so tell you this is what we're now doing? Be, you know, be at the bus stop for 5 o'clock or whatever the arrangements were.
[00:22:46] Unknown:
But no. No. That was very just makes me realize the clickiness in these workplaces. Yes. Like I said to you yesterday, my face doesn't fit. I'm probably too gobbie and what have you, but it's it is hurtful when you see that. And, then it's like, oh, we're gonna do something else if you wanna come, and I went, no. You're alright. No. Thanks. Dumb. Dumb. You shittled me once. Yeah. That's it. But there must be others that worked there as well that saw that post and thought, oh, oh, we didn't know about that. You know? But it is what it is. I'm over it now, but you just, you think you found this lovely place of work colleagues. I've never had work colleagues in my life, And then, actually, no, they weren't your true friends.
[00:23:26] Unknown:
No. But, hey, Jo. I my my view on sort of work relations is you are not, you know, it's almost like when people fall out with other people they don't really know, it's like, why why are you giving your energy to that? You know, don't don't worry about something you have no control over. Don't worry about people saying something that don't know you or not inviting you. They play no significant part in your life. They don't add to your life, your family life, your circle. So
[00:24:14] Unknown:
leave it at that. Yeah. Go to work and do your job.
[00:24:18] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. That really is my attitude. You know, I get on with the majority of people with my job. Would I socialize with them? Even the ones that I get on really well with outside of work? Absolutely not. No. No. I don't want to be friends with them on that level. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. Yeah.
[00:24:40] Unknown:
Well, I'm at that point now anyway. You you I always think there's a big saying, isn't there, that your true friends you can have on a on your one hand be fingers. And it's true. Yeah. May maybe more than one hand for me, but they're people that I haven't seen for ages, but you know that they're there if you need them. You know? And I I I was just about to say that I have a friend
[00:25:02] Unknown:
who I've known for 32 years, maybe a bit more. And we we seem to go in phases where, you know, we will speak to each other all the time and we'll probably meet up quite often. And then there will be months, if not, you know, 18 months, 2 years, where we hardly see each other and hardly speak to one another. But when we do, it's just like you're you're picking up from, like, yesterday. Do you know what I mean? Yeah. Now that's the true value of a friend that you don't have to have this conversation to go, oh, so sorry I've not been in touch. It doesn't matter, you know? No. No. You just pick up where you left off, don't you? Yeah. Yeah. It's that's not the the friendship. And they're the type of friends that you want. Like you said, they're the type of friends that you can count on one hand.
[00:26:00] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. So it's all a learning curve, isn't it? I mean, that's the first time I've been riled in a long time because I've been, like, bouncing along in life really happy, and I'm still really happy. But yesterday, every time I had a spare moment, I mean, driving up to you, oh, god. You just keep playing it over and over again, and you're just feeling so mad. But, yeah, it's gone today. It's done, dusted, lesson learned Good. Onwards.
[00:26:22] Unknown:
Good. Yeah. Good. Good. I think, you know, I sound like a little advert now, don't I? I think the future for you is very bright. You know? Too, miss, miss Meg.
[00:26:32] Unknown:
What do they call Mystic Meg? You're gonna give me a reading.
[00:26:36] Unknown:
You think the future's very bright. Everything. Yeah. You know, you you you're getting it in order, and you're very calm and very sort of you know, it's okay. It's it's gonna happen.
[00:26:49] Unknown:
Not stressed about it at all. That's a good way to be. It is. I'm quite lucky. I'm I'm with that with lots of things, and I hold a lot down to that saying it is what it is. You know? Because it is, isn't it? You can't do anything about it. You can get stressed about it, upset. And once you've gone through the emotions, which you're gonna have some emotion. And like I said, yesterday, it was mine. It was all day. I was a little bit on and off and annoyed. But today, it's it's done with. It is. It's done. Live and learn. Move on, Shelley. Yeah.
[00:27:16] Unknown:
Absolutely. Yeah. Absolutely. So what's what's the,
[00:27:20] Unknown:
sort of coming week holding for you? Are you out and about? Oh, I'm do you know what? I'm looking forward to Christmas Day when I've got nothing to do. I'm yeah, I've got my granddaughter tomorrow for the morning, and Maddie said, you know, do you want do you want me to pop her a nursery for the morning, or do you want her? I'm like, no. Bring her here. Means I can't have a lion, but when they're little, you just gotta you just gotta make the most of it, haven't you? And then Yeah. I've just we've squeezed everything in today. Me and Darren were at Audi at 10 o'clock, then we were at Tesco's at 11.
On a Sunday. On a Sunday. I know. I sat there in bed at half past 9, and I thought, do you know what? As much as I'd love to go back to sleep for an hour, I've got to get up and crack on. And literally now, it's just wrapping presents, and they're just getting scruffier and scruffier. You know, when you just lose the wheel, and you're just wrapping them up and just you don't care if the edges don't line up.
[00:28:17] Unknown:
Yeah. Yep. I used to be like that all the time. You know, it was all in the presentation. Everything had to be spot on. And I didn't have that in between stage that you've just said. You know, as you sort of go on, it gets messier and messier. I just don't bother now. I don't even bother. I don't even bother to god, this sounds awful. I don't even bother to wrap him. I'm just like, there you go. I I I have no patience with it at all. Well, that's like your little gift to shove it in a Christmas bag and salutate the top over. Job done. But you can't do that with kids. Yeah. Well, yes. Yes. There is that. There is that.
But, yeah, I I I as you know, I'm not a Christmas person. I feel, you know, going back to the whole pilot thing, I should be used to it, but I feel like I get cabin fever by it. I feel really trapped by it. So this year, I'm working. I'd rather not be working, but, you know, it is what it is. It is what it is. Yeah. Yep. I can almost use that as an excuse to go, you know, oh, sorry. Sorry, parents. Can't come over and see you. I'm far too busy working.
[00:29:32] Unknown:
You know? So I don't have to go through all of that. Oh, no. I haven't even written out Christmas cards. No. No. This is the 1st year, and what makes me laugh is about a month ago, I bought all these little knickknacks from, one of these shops to make my own. Who was I kidding? Wow. Yeah. The thought was there. Yeah. But I haven't done it. I'm not gonna have time now. And we all bought Christmas matching pyjamas. I was gonna do a photo of us. You know? I've got my own photography studio out there, and then I was gonna get all the pictures printed and put them on Christmas cards. No? I can't be bothered. Wow. This is the 1st year I've not done a Christmas card that's got a photo on it, but it is what it is. Yeah. I'm not stressing. I've said to mum, sorry. No card this year. So Well, that's a good note to finish on, isn't it? It is. It is. It is. Don't worry. Be happy. And it is what it is. Yeah. Well, we will let you go, young miss Jo Wood, because you're off to do a night shift.
[00:30:32] Unknown:
Oh, I know. I I just yeah. Don't know why don't know why I volunteered, really, but, you know,
[00:30:40] Unknown:
let's end the year on a good note and make other people happy. Yes. Yes. She loves going to work. Off she pops. Oh, jolly singing carols all the way.
[00:30:49] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. That'd be great. Yeah.
[00:30:52] Unknown:
Well, you have a good evening, my lovely, and I know we'll speak in the next few days. And, Yeah. We will do. Merry Christmas to all the listeners. Ho ho ho. Indeed. Thank you, young miss Jo Wood. I will speak to you in a few days. Alrighty. Take care, lovely. Bye bye. Bye. Bye bye. So that was first half. I'm gonna play a quick song, and then I've got the young Abby Matthews on. I'll give a brief about Abby after the song. But let's have let's have a little Christmas song so I can, get Abby on the Skype and stuff like that.
[00:31:36] Unknown:
You're all I want for Christmas. All I want my whole life through each day is just like Christmas. For Christmas. And if all my dreams come true, Then I'll away on Christmas morning and find mine stocking anytime that I would
[00:34:32] Unknown:
Oh, it's missed the last bit, but that was a nice song. Anyway, on with part 2 of the show. Now our next guest, Abby Matthews, I call her the jogger for joy. I mean, I don't think she jogs for joy. Well, she does. She jogs for other people's joy, but she always brings joy to those that see her. Abby was on some 5 months ago, I believe, when I did my first show of women's hour, and she'd inspired all of our town by running. And when you see her at traffic lights, she's got the pram with the baby in it, and she's doing star jumps and just acting mad. And there are a few people that have thought that she's a bit quackers, you know, but she is. She's just got an amazing sense of humor.
And now most people in our town, when they see her, they know who she is, and she regularly blogs. She's just a breath of fresh air. So I thought this evening, it would be great to get her back on and, see her progress because I've been following her. So let's see. She wasn't expecting me for another 5 minutes. So she should be there unless she's put the kitties to bed. 5 minutes before or after. Right. I'll try her again in a couple of minutes. Bless her. She has got 3 kiddies to look after. And, yeah. So I was saying, you know, we've we've been following Abby ever since we've seen her, and it's like, these are the people these are the women that, they're inspirational. They bring so much joy. And I think Abby's even had a pair of trainers bought for her.
She's had some phone calls to the police actually as well about, like, we think there's a drunk person out running about. And police have come out to check on her, and I think she's got a bit upset thinking she's got a few haters out there. But like I said to her, you're always gonna have haters. Just let them go. Just concentrate on the good people out there. Right. She's online. Let's go again. I'm still 3 minutes early. I won't keep ringing her because it could be it could be stressful. I'm just gonna say pop me a call. Pop me a call. So you just have to bear with me a couple of minutes, guys. So how are you doing for Christmas? You stressed? Are you ready?
It all comes together in the end, doesn't it? I've said this every year. And, you know, I've got older children and a younger child. So my eldest is 27, and my youngest is 11. And, effectively, I've been doing Christmas for 27 years. 27 years of early starts on Christmas Day, stressful night sleep because I'm always worried, you know, they keep coming in. I mean, last year was the most that my youngest had ever been that excited, and he was up every hour. And, you know, Christmas day comes, and you're absolutely exhausted.
So I'm kind of relieved. We're gonna have a nice lion. I'm gonna have a walk on the dog. Walk on the dog. I keep getting all my words back to front at the moment because I am just, like, so busy. I'm gonna have a walk on the beach with my dog, and then my parents are gonna come come up for dinner. Here she is. Good evening, Abby. Can you hear me, lovely? Oh, hello. Yes. I can. How are you doing, my lovely? Oh, good. Thank you. Good. I'm sorry I've called you a few minutes early. I'm a stickler for time usually, but Jo left early, and I'm like, right. And then I thought, no. I bet she's still putting her children to bed.
[00:38:46] Unknown:
Oh, no. So are I done?
[00:38:48] Unknown:
No. That's alright. So I just wanted to check-in on you because since we spoke well, I think it's about 5 months ago, you're still out there doing your thing, inspiring our town, and I I call you my little jogger for joy. Like I've just said to the listeners, you're not necessarily jogging for joy, but you bring a lot of joy to other people.
[00:39:08] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. I do. I've had loads of people come up to me in the supermarket saying, you're amazing what you do. Keep doing what you're doing. Because I've obviously I've had a lot of hate towards me recently and How can people hate you
[00:39:24] Unknown:
for for running?
[00:39:27] Unknown:
I know. I find it I find it crazy as well, and, obviously, I've been called horrible names as well. Names aren't the nicest or pleasant to say on the radio. But, yeah, I've had so I've now I've created my own group because lots of people have, have given me a lot of hate for it. So, I've created my own page now. So, hopefully, now those that do enjoy watching me and my videos,
[00:39:58] Unknown:
they can join on. Yeah. What's your page called, Abby, if you don't if you wish? I'll try it. I thought I joined it, but I can't find it.
[00:40:09] Unknown:
I think it was, keeping Camborn positive or something.
[00:40:14] Unknown:
Oh, right. Love it. So you've stopped posting on the what's going on Cambourne page then?
[00:40:20] Unknown:
Well, I am now because I had a message saying, I don't know. It was from an anonymous. It was someone I don't know saying they wrote saying, we've reached we've reached our goals or something. And I think I kind of took over their page, and I don't know if they were happy. So I've I've thought, well, I'll do my own page, and then those that want to continue following my journey can just come on to this page, then there'll be hopefully no more drama touch words. But who knows? I always seem to find that somewhere just by running. But
[00:40:53] Unknown:
yeah. But So so you've had a little incident. You've had, a couple of police pull you up, haven't you, to see if you're okay?
[00:41:01] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. Yeah. I've had the police come over because they think I've I've had people report me saying they think I'm intoxicated because I I run and dance and do my thing. And, yeah, I just find it really crazy why people would go out their way just to waste well, at least waste police time and just to stop me for just what being happy, dancing, and doing
[00:41:28] Unknown:
doing my own thing. Yeah. I mean, I wonder if there's a few of these that are, like, elderly people, and they are thinking, do you know I'm worried about that young lady? Perhaps she needs help, and she's not very well. There might have been a few genuine people out there with nothing better to do, but then I'm sure you've got, like you say, your little jealous, petty people. They just don't like to see anybody making them anything of themselves. You know? Why why shouldn't you, like, show you videos of what you're doing and bring positivity about?
[00:41:58] Unknown:
Yeah. I just find I just that's all I'm about. I'm not I'm not trying to make anyone feel like, no one has to feel jealous of me. I just wanna spread the joy because I feel we lack it down here. Like, a lot of people say, yeah. You do bring that joy. You do make me push through the day. I've had loads of messages of people saying, you carry on doing you. You've inspired me to move more or do this or do that, and it's it's actually really nice. And I've tried to make a difference. I've even helped homeless. Like, I've I've gone out my way and bought I know a lot of people do that as well, and I came home and cooked a homeless person a pizza, and I I got a little bit of stick for doing that as well. It sort of just goes a bit crazy
[00:42:42] Unknown:
sometimes online, doesn't it? Oh, it does. They're just keyboard warriors, and I noticed lots of these people with these groups, they all write anonymously, don't they?
[00:42:52] Unknown:
Yeah. I do find that. I mean, I just say if you've got an issue with me, try and private message me. I'm not a nasty person. I don't give out hate. It would just be nice just to be, like, adults, a mature adult just to, message me and say, oh, hi. I I do like what you're doing, but such and such. But I know a lot of people do like to write it in the comments to, I don't know, maybe show their faces a little bit. I'm I'm not sure. I don't know why people and rat well, it's jealousy a lot of it, I think. You know, they see somebody out there doing well.
[00:43:26] Unknown:
You know, how could you write a yeah. I really like you, Abby, and what you're doing, but you fed a homeless person. How dare you? Shame on you. Perhaps if there are a few more Abbeys around, the world would be a greater place.
[00:43:39] Unknown:
Yeah. I I just I just feel like everyone goes through tough times, and I just think I might be going through a tough time, but I just I still wanna show that positivity, that smile, and energy. I wanna give back to people and make them feel happy even if it's just for a minute of their day. I know I've made them smile. That's all I'm about, but Yeah. I suppose some people just don't understand or don't like it or which is fair enough. You don't have to like everybody in this world.
[00:44:12] Unknown:
Of course you don't know. If if anything, my only criticism, hubby, is can you run a bit slower? And then when I'm driving past you, I can slow down, and I've got time to shout and beep. I'm, like, driving by, and I'm like beep beep beep beep.
[00:44:25] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. No. It's lovely. I do love hearing the bit, and so does my daughter. She's waving and shouting hello. She loves she just loves the attention, but she'll be going to nursery soon. So but it's quite sad because she is my Yeah. My little main role, isn't he?
[00:44:44] Unknown:
Oh, I don't know. I don't know. It's, yeah. She does play a massive part in the videos, but I think it's all, you know, you're the works. We gotta watch you. And, somebody even bought you a pair of trainers, didn't they?
[00:44:57] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. I've had trainers bought for me. I've I I was really shocked, and it's just there are there are so many lovely people. And I think, like, people says, you get you will get negative people. You're not gonna be able to please everyone, which I understand. I've I've always wanted to please everyone, but I've now realized you can't keep pleasing everyone because not everybody likes your style. Not everybody likes what you do. So I think I'm pleased in the ones that do like what I'm doing, and I was really grateful because they weren't cheap because running trainers aren't cheap. And I was you know, it was just love it was such a lovely gesture of him. So Yeah. I would say.
[00:45:39] Unknown:
You know, have you have you got a sponsor yet or anything? There's gotta be people out there who want to sponsor you, Abby.
[00:45:46] Unknown:
Oh, no. I mean, I I mean, I've had people ask me about if I could help them out with charities and things. And I've tried I do try, and I'm always trying to promote people as best as I can. And, obviously, I've had Taylor tires set my pushchair wheels for free and things. So, I mean, that everyone has been lovely. I mean, I've had probably, what, 5% 5, 10% of negative comments, but or people that just don't like it. But then I've just gotta get over that now and think I will I will continue because I've been running since I was 17. So I'm now 26. So no no nobody or nothing's gonna stop me from running. I'm still gonna continue being me, being the silly me. I know my dancers are a bit cringe, and I That's brilliant. That's what it's all about. I know I haven't got rhythm. I've never had rhythm.
I'm sometimes clumsy when I'm running with the dog or running with the pusher, but I still I still get out there, and I'll go out in all weathers, any weathers every day. And I just love it. I just love that feeling of big going going for a run and
[00:46:56] Unknown:
yeah. Just Yeah. Yeah. Don't let anybody stop you. I always think it's interesting that the amount of feedback. I remember doing a photography job many years ago for a school, and out of probably about 450 children, 2 parents complained that they weren't happy with their pictures. And it was like, all I could think about was those 2 people out of 450 people. And in my right mind now, it's like, you're never gonna please everybody. We'll just focus on all those other people that you made really happy.
[00:47:26] Unknown:
You know? Yeah. No. Because I was I was, like, scamming through. I was, let's see how many negatives. I was I was going out to look out for the negatives, and that was making me feel quite rubbish. And I I've now I've stopped that. I've if anybody does leave a negative comment, I'll just I'll look at it, and it's just scroll past now because I'm not making myself look like a fool or anything. I'm just there just to try and have fun, enjoy life.
[00:47:52] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. And if they're on your page trolling you and stuff, you just need to delete and block over and done with it. Well
[00:48:00] Unknown:
well, no. I'm just happy now. I've and I've managed to get a few followers now on my new one.
[00:48:08] Unknown:
I should say that you're still doing your TikTok page as well.
[00:48:12] Unknown:
Yeah. I mean, like, if anyone wants to follow me on TikTok, I'm happy. Just go on TikTok or my my new page is positive vibes around. And I've got 298 followers already. So I've Wow. I've gained and that was not long put up, so I've gained quite a few. So there there is quite a few supporters.
[00:48:32] Unknown:
I just Oh, it's amazing.
[00:48:36] Unknown:
It's amazing. To hear.
[00:48:38] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, if we didn't admire what you're doing, it wouldn't be like, oh, I need a guest. I need to get Abby on tonight. You know? Let's think of that inspiring women because that's what this show is, all about ultimately. People like you that make changes and, you know, you're out you're not out for anybody. You're out for yourself to have a good time. And, you know, you've got 3 little babies. Well, now I know they're not all babies, but, you know, 3 kitties to look after. And, you know, in your spare time, you're giving everybody else that positive vibe. And I bet it's a bit mental in your house at the moment, isn't it?
[00:49:10] Unknown:
Oh, yes. Especially with Christmas, and it is just nice to once you've done everything and you've had excited children, it is nice just to get out for that run just to breathe and relax.
[00:49:21] Unknown:
Yeah. I might try it. I might try it. I don't know. People do say you get bad knees from running. Look at me. I'm finding the negative before I've even started. I just don't like exercise. I've had so many injuries, but I'm like, no pain, no game. I'm going. Yeah. Yeah. So Do do you get any, like, problems if you got, like, a runner's knee or stuff like that?
[00:49:46] Unknown:
I'd occasionally, my knees might hurt, but sometimes it might hurt for, like, a day, and then it's back to normal again. I do try to stretch as best I can, but it's just trying to get everything all in. But I do try, but it's
[00:50:02] Unknown:
And then you say, like, you you feel amazing after. I mean, people talk about this high when you've been for a run. I've never experienced it.
[00:50:10] Unknown:
Is it Oh, no. Real high? It is. It's a real I I'm really buzzed, and it's that's why I think people think I am a bit of a cray I am crazy because it's just once you finish, you feel like you just I don't know. It's just really hard to explain. It's just a it's such an amazing feeling. It's just
[00:50:30] Unknown:
you just feel, oh, I feel Alarm. Good after. Yeah. I suppose the endorphins are running you like, I can do anything.
[00:50:37] Unknown:
Let's get And then when you've got people when you've got people beeping, cheering you on, it's just such a lot it's just so lovely to hear and see. It's Yeah. And Alaya loves it because she's always smiling in the videos and that. She loves it. She loves the attention.
[00:50:54] Unknown:
Yeah. And she does a little bit of a dance as well, doesn't she? I think I saw one of your videos on TikToks, and she had tinsel around her and stuff, and you're doing Christmassy songs. And, oh, it's just lovely.
[00:51:05] Unknown:
Yeah. She's she's my, my older 2 are probably they well, my oldest finds me a little bit embarrassing, but then I am her mum. That's probably what I meant to do anyhow. Yeah. You're right there. Yeah.
[00:51:18] Unknown:
So I suppose the 3 of them in the house excited for father Christmas to come. Oh my gosh. I I was just saying to the listeners, you know, this is my my son's with his dad this year, and he was up every hour last year. And I'm kind of like, I'm glad of a rest. But my daughter's like, it's the best day of the year, mom. I mean, what time do you expect yours to start getting up on Christmas day?
[00:51:42] Unknown:
Well, probably could be 5 o'clock, 6 o'clock. My oldest, she's she's so excited, and she's been counting down. She's telling me, there's only 3 more days left, mommy, and father Christmas will be here, and
[00:51:56] Unknown:
we'll be opening presents. And, oh, she's just so excited. Bless her. Oh, but it's just magical for them, isn't it? And, I mean, I think that's what it's all about. I don't think I've had that real Christmas vibe this year, but I've not been feeling a 100%. But I went to watch my son at the carol service, and it's like, oh, god. Look at them. And this is his last year in primary school. It's it's all about them, isn't it?
[00:52:19] Unknown:
Yeah. Bless them.
[00:52:21] Unknown:
And they grow up so fast, don't they? And it's like, oh, you just want them to stay babies for as long as you can, but they grow up so fast. They do. I mean, my I have my 18 month old granddaughter tomorrow. I have a one day a week, and, you know, she's just taught now. They're not babies for more than 5 minutes, are they? No. It's like, oh, where did that tiniest go? I know. So you gotta make the most of it. Absolutely make the most of it. But I still I I don't like getting up early in the mornings, but, I always remember my dad dad saying to me once, he used to love when he was younger looking out the windows on Christmas day, and you see all the lights switching on, and you just know most people, fingers crossed, are having a lovely time, and it's just magical for the children.
[00:53:06] Unknown:
Yeah. It is lovely. I love seeing the lights with the little ones. They it's just there's they always got such a buzz smile, and and that was another thing. I had ladies stop me saying, does that does your little girl ever not smile? Because all every time I see her, she's always smiling. I said, that's what she she just she is. We're just happy people.
[00:53:27] Unknown:
Wow. I bet she gets that from her mom, doesn't it? If you're in a good, happy, positive, household, then it's gonna reflect on you, isn't it, onto your children. Because Yeah. How old are your older 2 then?
[00:53:41] Unknown:
My son's 4, and my oldest is 7.
[00:53:44] Unknown:
Right. Oh, these are magical ages. And what are you doing on Christmas day this year then?
[00:53:51] Unknown:
We'll probably have all our family over, open all our presents and eat a nice roast, I think. And I'll probably go for a run after because Really? It's just like a normal yeah. I do yeah. I will there are people who think I'm crazy, but, yeah, I'll probably go for a run after after in in the evenings and things once I've eaten too much. And I probably will feel bad that I've eaten too much, and I'll be like, I gotta shift this now.
[00:54:20] Unknown:
God. I have a day off, girl. I have a day off. Do you go out running in the dark, do you?
[00:54:27] Unknown:
Yeah. But I do change my roots and things, but I always try and stay where there's lots of traffic. So
[00:54:34] Unknown:
Yeah. Because I read an article this week about people that they said it was the worst time of you know, they they regularly run, and they regularly run-in the evenings. But with the darker evenings, there's been the whole fear factor that comes in.
[00:54:48] Unknown:
Yeah. No. I I get that. I don't know. A lot of people, I think they do worry, but I think I can always live in fear, but I know I've got to I do stay where I'm safe and where there's people around. And I'm always filming. So You got your phone with you. Yeah. And have have you got one of those personal alarms as well? Oh, yeah. I've got that set. So I know so everything's I am quite I've come with a corset because, obviously, I am a mom of 3. I don't wanna risk not seeing my children.
[00:55:21] Unknown:
No. Absolutely. And they they are such a good idea, actually. I've I've ordered one for my daughter. Not that she goes out running, but she she goes to the gym at 5 o'clock in the morning and stuff. And it's just it's just a little add on, isn't it, really? But, I mean, you don't wanna be worrying too much about things like that. But at least if you're prepared for it, then, you know, you're just taking all the safety measures you can, really, aren't you? And I think if the police are following me around, most of the time no. No. They have to. I think I'll be alright. You've got your own personal little, security team there around you.
[00:55:53] Unknown:
I think that's what it is. They probably just want my autograph, really.
[00:55:58] Unknown:
We all do. So have you got any plans for the new year, Abby, with the run-in? Anything you set in? Any new achievements that you want to reach?
[00:56:07] Unknown:
I think, just see how it goes. I'm just gonna continue doing what I do and try and hopefully cheer more people up. And if I can help people, I will.
[00:56:18] Unknown:
Definitely. You could do a little thing, couldn't you, that you, like, pick people up on the way. If you've got, like, a circular route and somebody wants to join you, you can run to their house, knock on their door, and then pick them up, and then go onto another house. It could be quite cool.
[00:56:32] Unknown:
Yeah. Well, if anyone wants to join me in January to start the fresh year of being a housekick and all come out for a run or a dance.
[00:56:41] Unknown:
Yeah. Definitely. You might you you never know. I might be up for it one night, Abby. I'm I'm doing dry January, and I might be up for a giggle. If I don't drink, I'll be looking for something to do. Maybe running is the key thing.
[00:56:58] Unknown:
Oh, yeah. No. I do I just find running so addictive. But I think once I start, I just can't stop. It's just
[00:57:05] Unknown:
Yeah. That see, that is just craziness to me. People say that about the gym, and I'm just like, I don't get it. Don't get it. I've joined several times, and I never go. But, anyway, who knows? Here's to New Year's resolutions and stuff like that. So yeah. Well, thank you for your time, my lovely. It's been great to have a catch up. Like I say, it's, like, probably about 5 months on, and I just wanted to Oh, yeah. Well get your voice out there again. Oh, thank you. No. You're welcome. Well, I wish you a lovely Christmas with your children, my lovely, and I will keep, keep beeping when I see you. And, you know Oh, yes.
I did go and ask you a couple of days ago, and I bet there's loads of cars. They're out of distance. You're thinking, who was that? Who was that? But I guess you don't know what these people are. Well, you have a wonderful Christmas, my lovely, and, I'll speak to you again soon in the new year. You have to come on and tell us about what's going on. Thank you so much, Abby. You take care of yourself. Bye bye. Bye. Bye. Thanks. And that is what this show is about, supposedly. You know, it's taken a change over the last few months. Still kind of, like, finding my feet, but, ultimately, I want it to be about strong women. And, there's so many strong women in our towns that we don't know about. It doesn't, you know, doesn't have to be the ones that are in the public eye.
If you know anybody out there that's got a story to share or, you know, you think that they would, be a good guest, please do get in contact. It's [email protected]. And I do have to give a shout out to my cousin, actually. I visited her today. Hi, Tracy. I told her I'd give a little shout out to her. Bless her. And with that, this is, well, the last show before Christmas, so we've got one more before the New Year. I wish you all a prosperous and amazing Christmas. And for those of you that are gonna be by yourself and struggle, just remember it's one day, one day, And shout out to people because I'm sure there are enough people out there that wanna help somebody that, you know, wants to give somebody a shoulder for whatever reason.
But I wish you all joy and love and a merry, merry Christmas. I'll see you again next week.
Introduction and Welcome
Tractor Rally and Farm Visit
Funeral Reflections and Life Lessons
Workplace Dynamics and Friendship
Christmas Preparations and Traditions
Interview with Abby Matthews: Jogger for Joy
Closing Remarks and Christmas Wishes
