by Maggie Fogarty | Mar 31, 2017 | Uncategorized |
‘Hey – bet you thought you weren’t going to hear from blogger Bonnie again. How wrong were you?
Things have been a bit busy in my world, so I’ve got my excuse in early!
First, the rents headed off on a trip to London, staying at some amazing river side apartment belonging to friends. I’ve seen the photos and trust me the views are to die for. Take a look below, to give you an idea. That’s the Millenium bridge to the right and the Tate Modern straight ahead. Not bad eh?
Me? I stayed in Cornwall with my lovely minder, cos I’m not much of a city girl. The rents drove all the way down – the apartment has its own underground parking – and lets face it, a five hour journey doesn’t suit little ol’ me.
Nah, give me the beach and sea air anytime. The folks were laughing because a London restaurant they visited had a Cornish themed menu! Fish, cheese, the lot – yes, my little bit of the world was right there on the foodie map. If they’d stayed put, they would have got things much fresher. Just sayin…
Now for my main blogger job this month. My rent Maggie has told me that I’ve got to say something about her latest book, a thing called a ‘novella’, which is available today and you can get it on Amazon either in Kindle form or as a paperback. It’s called ‘Backwards and Forwards’ and it will be the last one for a while, so I’m told. I like the pink cover – check it out below – but think she’s missed a trick by not putting yours truly on the front.
I mean, us mutts are a great draw aren’t we? If you think I’m joking, try going out for a walk or a visit to the pub with mini me. Someone said recently, that I get treated like a rock star whatever that is. Hell, I love all that attention and what girl wouldn’t?
Apparently, I’m going to be in some of the publicity photos for the book so I’ll have to look my doggy best, smiling for the camera. I don’t mind as long as I get a decent wage, (biscuit currency will be fine), along with walks in some of those scenic locations. If there’s a pub visit involved as well, all the better.
On the suject of fab scenery, now that the weather has improved, there’s talk about trying some of the walks in a friend’s latest publication – she’s called Sue Kittow and her book is ‘Walks In The Footsteps Of Winston Graham’s Poldark’ www.sigmapress.co.uk. Grab hold of a copy if you are coming down to Cornwall and fancy some good old fashioned outdoor exploring on two or four legs. I’ll keep you posted on how we get on.
Well that’s me done for now, I like to keep things short and sweet. Check out the new novella and watch out for the tie-in publicity – did I mention I’d be taking part? Whoops, a repeat bit of information, ahem, ‘accidentally’ slipped in.
Woof and out…’
by Maggie Fogarty | Feb 12, 2017 | Uncategorized |
Hiya folks,
If you’ve been reading this blog spot, I’m usually the little ‘footnote’ – the bit that comes after my rent Maggie’s piece.
Not any more though! From now on, Bonnie’s the star of the show and about time too if you don’t mind me saying so. (Tough if you do).
Anyway, for those of you not already in the know, here’s a bit about little ol’ me, the west country cockapoo with attitude…..
First off, I’m not really that old – just three at the end of next month – and I’m a Cornish gal through and through. (Born in St Austell).
I now live with my rents in Marazion – just across the road from an awesome beach and St Michael’s Mount – and I’ve got loads of local doggy friends including my bestie, a handsome Havanese called Tui. More about him later.
When the rents Maggie and Paul are away, (how they can even bear to leave me is still a mystery!), I stay with my lovely minder, Leda. over at nearby Praa Sands. There’s another beach to die for and even more doggy pals to run around with. Leda teaches me tricks and it’s like a holiday when I stay there – a deep memory foam mattress in my overnight crate and a new comfy bean bag to lounge about in. Of course I miss the rents – I have to say that don’t I?- but Leda’s place is something else, a real home from home.
Once a week I go visiting a care home as a ‘Pets As Therapy’ dog and it’s great seeing everyone there. I always get loads of treats and pats and I’m told that I make everyone smile, which is no bad thing to do in life.
What else should you know about me? My favourite snack is ‘a Smart Bone’, especially the beef flavoured ones, and I love a bit of roast Lamb if the rents have it on the menu. Just saying.
I’ve also featured in a Calendar with me posing outside my favourite Cornish dog friendly pubs. Some people have already asked for a copy of it for their holiday guests, so I think I’ll be pushing the rents for royalties. (Actually I’ll settle for a few extra Smart Bones as an early negotiation tactic).
Tui, the handsome Havanese, is my ‘boyfriend’ but I only see him from time to time because he’s taking a while to recuperate from a back injury. Still, absence makes the heart grow fonder don’t you think? Roll on summer when we can hit the beach and share that specially made doggy ice cream he introduced me to.
My favourite room in the house is the new conservatory which I’ve named ‘Bonnie’s Crib’. Not far to run out into the garden but nice and cosy when it’s wet and windy outside. Rumour has it that I’ll be having a birthday party in there soon – I suppose you could call that ‘fake news’ but I’m putting it out there anyway and we’ll see what happens.
Well, that’s about it for now folks apart from some necessary pics of me, the newly appointed dog blogger. Can you believe it? Just writing that makes me blush. (Like hell it does – I just love my new opportunity to ‘paws’ for thought and write it all down).
Woof and out….’
by Maggie Fogarty | Jan 2, 2017 | Uncategorized |
Are you one of those people who gets excited by the arrival of a New Year? Me too, despite the uncertainties and horrors that haunt the world stage.
Let’s face it, most people are fundamentally good even though the bad ones usually punch well above their weight – often literally.
So here’s to 2017, whatever it brings.
It’s also time to hand things over to Bonnie dog with the launch of her very own ‘dog blog’. (Of course, she’ll be giving snippets of news about her ‘rents’ from time to time).
Bonnie’s already quite a star in her own patch of west Cornwall – she’s been out with me on TV film sets, is a Pets As Therapy (PAT) visiting dog, has been mentioned in a BBC Radio interview, has been a charity collection magnet at our local supermarket and has her own ‘Bonnie’s Favourite Cornish Pubs’ Calendar. There’s even been a request for one to be made available to local visitors so they can see what dog friendly pubs she recommends!
So from now on, she’ll also be a lone blog star! Move over Maggie and make way for….drumroll….Bonnie the Very Cornish Cockapoo!
But before the mutt takes over completely, a few final thoughts. I’m currently coming to the end of the third novella in the Dilemma Novella triology – the one where the ongoing family dilemma saga comes to a conclusion. It will then be sent out to test readers for their reactions and published in March. A wee bit later than planned but it has to be right, with all those loose ends tied up good and proper.
I wasn’t entirely sure how the story would pan out but it has taken on a life of its own and endings are always the hardest to get right.
Writing a ‘serial novel’ has been a steep learning curve and I’m grateful for a story lining course I did a few years ago at the National Film and Television School, with Yvonne Grace who has worked on Coronation Street and other top dramas. Her advice on serial story telling was insightful and inspirational.
Once this latest book is out, the novel writing will be put on indefinite hold for a while. After writing a book a year since 2012 – including a number of short stories – on top of other work, it’s now time to focus on marketing and getting the books to a bigger readership. On that front there could be some exciting news in 2017 but that’s all I’m saying for now!
Unlike television production which is a team effort, writing can be quite lonely so it’s been great to get feedback from readers and book clubs. Another very successful novelist told me recently that she always cherishes those early book reviews – the ones she got before things really took off – and the fantastic support she received from other writers.
It’s amazing how people will line up to give congratulations once they sniff success by way of accolades and sales. As my author friend said, it’s the people who’ve supported you on the rocky road up that really deserve appreciation. Too true and that goes for all aspects of life .
Now for Bonnie’s big announcement – in her own words…
Hiya folks,
Well, well. I was gob smacked to hear that this space will now be handed over to little ol’ me.
I mean, who’d have thought it? Me the doggy blogger, with her own space to rant and rave. Yeah!
Now I’ve gotta think of things to write for my followers. That’s gonna be the hard bit but I’m sure I’ll cope.
Still basking in the glow of my Calendar, I’ve started to get a bit of interest from outside the friends and family. My handsome Havenese beau Tui can now look at me every day and see what’s he’s missing. Actually, he’s recovering well from his back injury and we’ve even had a few play dates recently.
Still, I’m playing hard to get because there are another few potential suitors lurking around. (Not naming names Tui – but you just might know some of them!)
Anyway, time to get the thinking cap on for future blogs. While the rents are off on holiday later this month, I’ll be staying with my lovely minder Leda over in Praa Sands. I’m sure I’ll get inspiration there and I’ll be raring to go by the time you hear from me again.
Woof and out for now…’
by Maggie Fogarty | Oct 9, 2016 | Uncategorized |
There’s been a bit of a gap between the last blog and this one. Blame the building work, visitors and writing deadlines. A feeble excuse I know, but life really has been extra busy recently.
Take the builders. They’ve been a great bunch and have done a fantastic job. Like anything in life, a good job takes time and for the best part of two months, various workers have been doing their bit to build our new Conservatory. As someone quipped the other day, a Conservatory is basically an extension – with a bit more glass – and I have to admit that a lot of skilled work goes into the construction. It’s all been worth it though and we now have an extra sitting room with a pleasant job of choosing the furniture.
Bonnie dog has already made herself at home on the new rug and once the inside decor is finished, we’re going to have a ‘grand opening’ – with Champagne and cutting of a ribbon! Think we deserve a celebration which of course will include the guys who did all the hard work.
Despite the temporary chaos, we’ve welcomed several visitors, including a former work colleague who I hadn’t seen for over twenty five years. It’s funny how you can go a long time without seeing someone and within minutes are chatting away like old mates. There was a lot to catch up on but we’ve agreed to stay in touch. She also recommended that I put the first of my novellas, ‘Dear Mr DJ’, out to a Birmingham based readers’ group she’s involved with.
It’s not something I’ve done before, so told her to go ahead and held my breath. Wisely the group wasn’t told that she knew me – we didn’t want them being nice about it just because I was a friend of hers. The response went way beyond my expectations and has given me an extra push to get the final of the trilogy finished. Then the complete book series can be marketed next year and on that front, I’m calling on the professionals . Believe me it is much easier to get someone else to market your book rather than to do it yourself.
As for Bonnie the very Cornish cockerpoo, she’s doing a great job as a ‘Pets As Therapy’ visitor to our local Leonard Cheshire Disability home and will be helping with some fund raising in November. So now over to her for a Bonnie update….
‘Hiya folks,
Been meeting quite a few new peeps since my last posting. Lots of builder chaps and other people passing by. Can’t say I remember all of the names but I’m a social type of gal so I’ve been loving all the attention.
Now for a great bit of news. I’ve finally tasted that doggie ice cream – it’s called Frozzys – and I got a Cranberry flavoured one as a present from my handsome Havanese Pal, Tui. Definitely a few steps up on the taste front from my usual treat of crushed ice. It’s a frozen yoghurt really but now I’ve had a lick there will be no going back!
I want to try the other flavours, so I need to get this one finished double quick. Sorry Tui but this little tub is all mine!
Got to say that I’m loving the new room at the back of the house and have decided that its a great doggy flat. Nice new fluffy rug, sofa and an easy run into the garden. What’s not to like? The rents just need to put a sign over the door saying ‘Bonnie’s Room’ and I’m all set. Yeah life is good!
Woof and out….’
by Maggie Fogarty | Sep 1, 2016 | Uncategorized |
You know the summer is coming to an end when west Cornwall gets even busier – and this year we’re talking mega busy.
The late August Bank Holiday is always the most popular time for visitors, a chance to get in that last break before the schools go back and the start of autumn. Yikes, our mixed weather summer seems to have flown by and judging by the crowds of holiday makers, Cornwall will have another record breaking year for tourism.
All good news for the local economy and in this neck of the wild west, the newly refurbished Jubilee Pool in Penzance has had over 30,000 visitors since it re-opened in the spring. A great success story and a tribute to those who campaigned to get it repaired after the terrible storm damage suffered in 2014.
Of course summer is the best time to meet up with friends and I must admit that mine are a talented bunch. Recently I saw a couple of friends who I haven’t seen for nearly three years which is way too long.
Tim lives in the Midlands and was an adviser for my debut novel ‘My Bermuda Namesakes’. He works with people who have traumatic brain injuries and the main character in the book has memory problems caused by a head injury. It was great to see him and his wife and to enjoy their enthusiastic reaction to west Cornwall – they usually don’t venture this far down but somehow I think they’ll be back.
A few days before they arrived, I met up with another talented friend, Sue Kittow, who has just finished a great book ‘Walks In The Footsteps of Winston Graham’s Poldark.’ (Cover picture below and details on www.sigmapress.co.uk). Although we’re in regular touch through social media, it was lovely meet up face-to-face for a proper catch up. Hubby, me and dog Bonnie are going to try some of the featured walks – rest assured that Sue’s well written book and clear walking maps will be coming along with us! I’ll certainly be recommending the book to friends and family heading down this way.
Meantime, having completed a magazine feature on film and TV extras, I’m looking forward to visiting Charlestown Harbour which has become a national and international filming hub. Cornwall is certainly magnet for film makers and the new Poldark series will show it off again in all its glory. Some of us really are lucky to live here.
Now over to Bonnie dog for her latest take on things…
‘Hiya folks,
Been a while since you’ve heard from me but hey – I’ve been doing some summer chilling and getting out and about.
I love it when we can go in the open top car, with the wind in my hair and the smell of sea air. Well sometimes there’s the odd pasty and other mutts thrown into the mix, but this gal doesn’t mind one bit.
It’s been great to try out some new pubs and to sit outdoors. My rents have been listing the number of – er – ‘drinking places’ I’ve visited, and trust me it’s quite a long one. I have my favourites but pretty much like them all. There’s always people to say hello to and if I’m lucky, I’ll bump into my little handsome Havanese pal Tui.
He’s well on the mend now after his back injury but we still haven’t got together for that doggy ice cream treat we’ve been promised.
Come on you rents, summer’s nearly gone.
Oh and one more thing. We’re having a new room built onto the house – something called a Conservatory – and I plan to make the most of it. In fact I think I’ll claim it as my own, a sort of Bonnie doggy base. When it’s finally finished, maybe I can celebrate in there with Tui over a tub of that mutt friendly ice cream?
Hint, hint – just saying.
Woof and out.’
by Maggie Fogarty | Jul 26, 2016 | Uncategorized |
Last week the summer weather arrived and for a few days it felt like we were back in sunny Bermuda – that special place where we stayed for a year in 2011/12.
In the hotter weather living by the sea has distinct advantages. The cooling sea breeze is welcome but with it comes a rise in humidity. Still, nobody is complaining least of all the Cornish ice cream sellers who are doing a roaring trade. There’s even a special ice cream for mutts which Bonnie dog has yet to try – though we’ve promised to put that right soon.
Recently I’ve been involved with a friend in setting up a Media Club in west Cornwall aimed at all those working in the print, broadcast and on-line media. Last Thursday evening we met at the fantastically refurbished Jubilee Pool in Penzance and our brilliant hosts were Rebecca and Robin who run the Poolside Indulgence Cafe. Our plan is simple – to get people in our industry socialising and maybe to bounce a few ideas around.
With many people working as freelancers, it’s a great chance to get to know each other and I’m a great believer that some of the best ideas come out of these informal get togethers. So watch this space and here’s to all the lovely people I’ve met so far.
West Cornwall has a real buzz about it at the moment, with plenty of holiday ‘stay cationers’ heading down here along with the usual mix of foreign visitors. This year seems busier than ever with Cornwall getting plenty of attention on the big and small screens. I’ve just finished work on a fascinating magazine feature looking at how Cornwall’s TV and film industry is involving local people both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. Haven’t met Poldark’s Aidan Turner yet but it’s on the wish list!
Bonnie has combined her regular Pets As Therapy dog visits, with a supermarket stint collecting for our local Leonard Cheshire Disability care home. A sure fire way to get shoppers to make a donation has to be a cute dog. People can’t resist giving her a pat and then dropping some coins in the collection box. A win-win and Bonnie did us proud.
Now over to madam for her take on things….
‘ Hiya folks,
Well I have to admit to gaining a few brownie points this week. There was yours truly, the centre of attention, at our local Morrisons supermarket. Can you believe that people were actually putting money into those boxes my rents were holding?
Apparently, a lot of this was down to little ol’ me.
Well, if you’ve got it flaunt it, that’s what I say, especially if it’s for a good cause.
The thing is, the rents keep promising me some doggy ice cream but I haven’t seen any of it yet. I mean, come on – how hot does it have to get before a gal gets to taste it? That pair need to get their act together and bag me some so I can share it with my little Havanese pal Tui. He’s actually already tried it, the lucky boy.
Still loving my occasional longer stays with my lovely minder Leda. She’s teaching me lots of new tricks which might come in handy if I get that TV walk on part. I’ve already hung around a film set with my rent Maggie and I have to say I quite like it.
Now which camera angle suits me best?
Woof and out…..’
