Ms Raccoon Regrets…
That having given the matter much thought, over a week in fact, she has decided to retire from the Internet; from the Blogosphere, from this Blog.
There will still be an Anna Raccoon blog, the Raccoon Arms will still be open for all who wish to while away an hour or so, all the old posts will still be available for reference, but the ‘virtual pub’ will be under new management, and Ms Raccoon will not be on the premises.
Undoubtedly there will be changes, but I have total confidence in Matt and Sad, they have been loyal friends, and steadfast bloggers. It will be Sad’s name over the door, not mine.
This is not, I stress, because of any ill health on my part. The Cancer has beaten a retreat, no sign of it for six months now. I won’t be able to say that ‘I have beaten it’ for another four and a half years technically, but if anyone out there had their money on the Cancer winning, I’d hedge your bet, Pal – I did warn you that Ms Raccoon is not in the habit of losing battles.
It may be a hoary old chestnut, but it is a salutary experience, sitting across a desk from a Doctor explaining to you that you must have immediate surgery and chemotherapy, or you have perhaps eight or ten weeks of life left. I was incredibly lucky to have been diagnosed, sheer fluke in fact, I had no symptoms. Without that lucky break I should have been decomposing nicely by now. Now I look back on last year, the darkest year of my life, and I wonder – ‘what would I have been doing with that eight or ten weeks if I hadn’t known, if I hadn’t been given that chance’. The answer probably applies to a lot of people. Wasting it. Squandering it. Frittering it away.
In my case, I should have been spending a lot of the time maintaining this blog. I thought it was important. Not that this blog was important, but that it was important that there was at least one blog, one place, where intelligent folk of different views could learn from each other. My motivation was never about making my voice heard, I didn’t have a burning ambition to convert anyone to my way of thought, didn’t have any particular political ideology – other than that less government and more individual freedom and responsibility was generally a good thing. I don’t hate anyone who disagrees with me, have no desire to silence folk who think differently, nor abuse them.
One day I found myself living in a foreign country, not speaking the language; I knew no one and couldn’t communicate with them anyway. I missed our local pub, always a hotbed of gossip; I missed the cut and thrust of working in a demanding job. New to the Internet, I ventured into the world of ex-pat forums…and beat a hasty retreat. Cripes! Not the good humoured exchanges of our local pub at all! I joined a news site, and ended up working for them as a moderator. It was fun, people from all walks of life would be discussing daily events. I learned a lot, constantly Googling to keep up with all the references to things I had never heard of.
Then Madeleine McCann vanished one dark night – and the world changed forever. Suddenly there were 1,500 comments a day, people were fighting tooth and nail. There was so much angst, sheer nastiness, vicious comments, stress and unhappiness, and that was just backstage. Out in the comments section it was no better. I left, along with a couple of other moderators, and several commentators who just wanted to get back to the previous atmosphere.
I took off for a carefree tour round Italy with Mr G. Bloody wonderful it was, I look back on it fondly. We had no ties, just our dog, and he was quite happy on the back seat of our camper van. We swam, we toured new cities, we barbequed, we had no particular agenda, no time frame. One day we came across an Internet cafe, and I decided to check my e-mail for the first time in weeks. ‘Well’, I said to Mr G, ‘You’ll never guess what, but one of the other moderators has started up a blog and he’s named it after me (actually after my username, but you know what I mean), says he liked my idea of something like a cafe, a meeting place for folks to chat, and he’s gone for it, wants me to write for him’.
Oh, naive fool that I am! Of course, by naming it after me he had deflected all the grief from the original site onto my head. I was the evil bitch who’d set up a competing site, I’d ‘stolen the database’ – fat chance, wouldn’t have known what it looked like if it had been thrust into my hand!!! Cor, I had some ‘orrible e-mails. Not only that, but some of the more obsessive commentators turned up at the new place, and all the back stage angst started again. I had a lot to learn about the darker side of the Internet, but I was catching on fast. What I ended up with was all the pain of ‘running my own blog’, but with none of the control. It wasn’t actually mine.
OK, so start again, if I’m going to have the grief, I might as well do it properly. Anna Raccoon was born. A nickname that some of the commentators had given me. There was no intention of blogging ‘anonymously’, or even psuedonymously’ – after all, everyone who was on the original Anna Raccoon knew exactly who I was, they had exchanged dozens of e-mails with me, and I only ever used my real name on e-mails. I put a lot of time – and money – into setting it up. I’d seen the trouble that could be caused by irate people complaining to Blogger and getting blogs taken down, or hacking into blogs, or spamming them. If I was going to do it, it would have to be a professional platform, hosted in the US, and ‘calmly’ run – no abuse from the moderators, no viciousness, no ‘outing’ of posters. Just a place where people could have different views and exchange them with some humour. (Chorus of ‘Oh naive fool!’ Repeat ad nausea)
I would wake every morning, and whatever I was thinking as I supped my morning tea would turn into a blog post. It might be an amusing tale from my past. A shaggy dog saga. Something that caught my attention on the morning news. Anything to get the conversation going. It was great fun, the old atmosphere was back, and how or why I know not, but new folk were finding it and joining in. How does that happen? I don’t know! The magic of the Internet. It just grew, like Topsy.
One day I wrote something about Lord Ahmed, and to my utter amazement, Vera Baird decided to comment on the piece. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Checked out the IP address, and sure enough, it was hers at the House of Commons. Guido had noticed, linked to it, and suddenly it seemed as though half the world had noticed, and the stats surged upwards. There were any number of ‘strangers’ hanging around the place. Occasionally commenting, but mostly just reading. Who were these people? I didn’t know then, and I don’t know now.
‘Success’ in any form invariably breeds discontent in others. I was amazed when I discovered that there were people I’d never heard of, never met, never spoken to, who were giving of their time – in order to write blog posts about me – or rather Anna Raccoon. Whatever for? I found there were blogs in exotic parts of the world that were just copying and pasting whatever I wrote, and using it to fill up a blog flogging Viagra. Someone registered a porn site, just marginally misspelling Anna Raccoon. Eh? I was baffled by all this, and somewhat intimidated. It was an uncomfortable feeling, knowing that there were all these prying eyes, up to no good, earwigging what continued to be a friendly conversation on line. I had to shut my mind to it, pretend I was just talking to those I knew and keep writing.
The rest is history. I’ve written over 1,500 posts in 3 years. I’ve made mistakes, zillions of them, been pulled up on them, and never minded a bit. I learn from my mistakes. I’ve been violently disagreed with on-line, and not turned a hair, for debate is what it was all about for me. What I’ve never got used to is those silent prying eyes. Thousands upon thousands of them. Every day. Without fail.
What I have to say now, doesn’t concern those of you who use the place as I intended – to debate, to exchange views. You are some of the most intelligent, erudite, evincive, and emotive writers in the Blogopshere. Guido tells me he doesn’t even dare read his comments. Me? I can never wait to see what you have to say. The care and thought and passion that goes into the comments on this blog are a constant source of pride to me. You will never know how much you have meant to me, particularly over the last year. I have clopped my way down five flights of stairs carrying an intravenous drip in order to get to a computer to see what you have to say on occasions. The only way I knew how to say thank-you to you was to go on writing something, kicking off the conversation. It’s been crap some days, many days. Too many days, but you always forgave me and willed me on. Thank-you.
Did you know that you were less than 1/2 a per cent of the readers of this blog. I’ve never been a fan of statporn, but I shall indulge myself this once. Less than a half of one percent. We’ve had 25,000 readers on a single day. Those prying eyes now account for 99.5 % of our readership. Some may just be shy, but amongst them are some of the most vicious, unbalanced, obsessive, cruel, thieving, manipulative, disingenuous, lying, (OK, I’ll put the Thesaurus away now) single minded, shits, in existence. There are still the people who copy and paste just to fill up their own blogs; then there are the ones who copy and paste in order to squirrel away my efforts and tear them apart, far from any debate, amongst their own tribal kinds. There are ones who disagree with something I have said, and who make it their business, not to debate, to prove me wrong, but to punish me for holding a different viewpoint. They lie and embroider, and filet little bits of information about me, and use it to fill entire blog posts with really foul allegations concerning my ‘motives’ for writing whatever they happened to disagree with.
It’s been building up for some years now, and every time it gets me down I resolve to step away from the keyboard, give it up, take up crochet or something, but somehow I always feel I would be letting down those who do comment. Those who explain their disagreement in an intelligent fashion. The past year or so there has been a new development. The personalised hate mail. My fault, I put up a contact page. It seemed a reasonable thing to do. (Another chorus of ‘Oh, so naive!’ if you would please.)
Now I get up in the morning, turn on the computer, and the first thing I see is a hail of e-mails. One from my host, telling me that someone has been trying to ‘guess’ our password overnight, presumably in order to get into the site. Then another, from a ‘friend’ telling me that he has found some disgusting piece of shit written about me in some obscure forum and he thinks I ought to ‘do something’ about it…funny how I never recognise the e-mail addresses of these ‘friends’ from those of my commentators. One of the ‘shy’ but ‘concerned’ ones I guess. Got up at 2am and thought, I know, I’ll cheer Anna up and remind her what sort of people she is writing for.
There is invariably a totally mad one, who’s discovered some inner meaning by adding together a notional number for every letter in the alphabet to one obscure sentence I wrote this time last year and is planning to reveal to the world how I’m really a one legged man disguised as a goat or something, its all in the bible – my fault, write about mental health issues, and you really get ‘em. At least once a week, there will be a long ramble from someone about to lose their home/job/wife/child for absolutely no fault of their own and will I please campaign for them and if I could raise some money for them too whilst I’m about it. I do check them all out, I phone them at my expense if I can, I’ve even been known to travel to England to meet people and try to give them what they want, but 99 out of a 100 of them check out to be absolute nonsense. I could ignore them – but then I wouldn’t be me anymore.
There’s the sort that read a post I wrote two years ago about my Father’s suicide, go googling, and at 3am fire up on Twitter saying ‘no wonder your Father killed himself, he ruined Wales, and you run off like a rat in the night to France’. (Twitter helpfully send me an e-mail to make sure I don’t miss these bons mots!) Eh? My Father worked on Lake Vernwy 60 years ago Pal, I moved to France 7 years ago – if you want to debate any plausible connection, how about replying to the post at the time, debate it on the blog? What’s the point of that Twitter post, you scabby Welsh git? Just another of the ‘Who’s day can I ruin today’ brigade?
I’ve had the usual ‘I hope you die of cancer, you ignorant cow’ – I’ve learned to ignore them too. The carping from people I’ve raised money from and a year later they come back for more – that one knocked me back a bit, but I got over it. I’ve come to ignore certain subjects, increases the mail bag too much.
What’s really done for me, is the people I know, albeit only on the Internet, the ones I have in mind when I do get through the mail and start to write, managing to ignore the vast malevolent army out there – when they start carping and whining by e-mail, that is the final straw. In the past few weeks, I’ve had one friend who has resolved to never speak to me again because of a post Matt put up – I didn’t even write it! – that deeply upset her, because of some family connection that I couldn’t possibly have guessed at, and I refused to take it down again. Why should I? It was Matt’s post, nothing wrong with it at all, very well received by those on line – but in the background I was losing a friend and getting more grief. I’ve been asked – not so politely – by another friend not to address the subject of euthanasia again because it so upsets her. Last week I awoke to two e-mails, sent long after I had gone to bed, both people I have known for years, both furious with me. I had mentioned someone they are both interested in – the first one accused me of having an agenda, glossing over his crimes, his conviction, actually said I was a ‘paid troll’ deliberately trying to improve his image. I opened the second e-mail, Noooooo, she was desperately upset for the second time in weeks (I’d only just smoothed over the last time) ‘baffled because I felt the need to vilify the man on every occasion’.
They’d both read the same sentence. It didn’t fit either of their agendas. And I am to blame.
I can’t do this. I suddenly realised that I could no longer write on here. The list of subjects I have to avoid for fear of unleashing more grief grows longer every month. I am no longer being honest and chatting to friends. I am intimidated by it all – to the point of not wanting to write any longer. I deeply resent that silent army of readers who have no interest in debating, who just want someone to be a figurehead, a cheer leader for their beliefs, their views, and if you don’t comply, ‘ping’, there is the e-mail telling you that they are never speaking to you again…
It’s ironical that the Blogsphere, supposedly the bastion of free speech, has turned out to be the place where I have no free speech. I can no longer express myself honestly. It’s no longer a place that I look forward to spending time in. It’s become an egg shell treading duty to my commentators.
So, in future, if I wake up thinking of something amusing, or feel like having a chat – I’ll e-mail you. I know which of you are committed to free speech, which of you debate intelligently, which of you understood the purpose behind the blog; I’ll make up a mailing list, and if you want to be knocked off it, just e-mail me and tell me so. I have no wish to impose myself on anyone, but I have a lot of friends out there that I would miss, and I want to stay in touch. Just not on here.
Sad and Matt are a lot more savvy than I am, they understand the dark side of the Internet better than I did. They won’t write in the same way, they will make a lot of changes, hopefully for the better, and I hope you support them. I wish them well, I’m glad they’ve taken up the yoke, the alternative was to close the blog down, and that would have been a shame for all the people who have supported it over the years.
There’s a whole beautiful world outside this door, the Dordogne sun is shinning, my hens are laying, the geese are getting fat, the mill stream glistens, Mr G is rolling past on his tractor, and I want to return to the real world. To enjoy this second life that I’ve been given.
Cheerio everybody.
So I’m the new landlord of the Raccoon Arms. I suppose I should introduce myself, though many of you have met me before.
Firstly, I shall stay behind my nom-de-plume of SadButMadLad. It’s not because I’m embarrased about what I say, but it makes my real life a lot easier. It means I don’t have my boss at work reading my stuff and saying that it’s not compatible with the company’s brand. And it shouldn’t be because my work is with computers and nothing to do with politics. Nor does it mean that I have to involve my family in what I do on the Internet. My personal life is separate from my publc life, just like everyone else who keeps their work life seperate from their home life. Using my real name doesn’t change any of my views and my views are already easily found out by Googling my handle. If you really want to use a name, use Jon or SBML.
But who is SBML? Though I’m anonymous, I would be just as anonymous if I used my proper name. Or any other name. What does help in having a conversation is knowing some of background. In the style of a online dating agency entry; I’m foreign born, but have lived in the UK for most of my life though have travelled extensively. I’m in my late 40s and live in the North of England. I’ve been married for 10 years. My major interest is in technology and science. I am a software engineer. My political views have evolved over the years from a left winger attending student demos as a young man to more liberal views. One aspect that was a constant was my distaste for authority and busy bodies and little hitlers. But I never knew that my view could be classified as a political viewpoint called Libertarianism. It was only two years ago that I found I wasn’t alone. Since then I’ve learnt a lot. And I’m still learning.
Secondly, I aim to keep the blog carrying on as Anna started it. It’s her baby and I feel a great responsibility to not harm it and to keep it going for years to come. You might not have noticed but I have been in the back office for some time now helping Anna run the blog and posting some articles of my own. So hopefully you won’t notice too much of a change. The decor will stay the same as will the name. I’ll just have to channel my feminine side.
The blog is not just me using it to spout my personal opinions and jamming it down your throats. Far from it. The blog is a place where I can start a conversation, listen to the feedback, and learn from it. Hopefully others will learn too. It’s also a place where customers can come and sit and feel comfortable talking with others about any subject under the sun. I aim to welcome anyone from across the political spectrum. My nickname is not A Man for All Reasons for nothing.
I will be helped by Matt Wardman as Co-Editor. He has a been running blogs since 2007, and knows his way around social software. Other bar staff will include Gildas the Monk and any others who wish to join and keep this blog going.
Sue might not come back and post on the blog, but I’m sure she’ll keep visiting. Though I hope she doesn’t become a back street driver! No, just joking. She’s more than welcome to add any comments. And her drinks will be on the house.
SBML
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May 14, 2012 at 07:01 -
I’m sorry to hear this news, and even sorrier that it’s your success in blogging that’s brought so much hassle into your life.
Your blog has been one of the shining beacons – never dull, always entertaining and thought provoking. I hope you will have a good few months of rest and recuperation, and perhaps look at your decision in a new light, maybe decide to to the odd (but not too odd!) ‘guest post’ from time to time?
Whatever you decide, I wish you well. And I know I won’t be alone in that.
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May 14, 2012 at 20:34 -
Well said Julia
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May 14, 2012 at 21:38 -
I echo Julia’s sentiments exactly. We have never met but I’ve always thought of you as a particularly nice member of the human race, and I have enjoyed reading whatever you wrote. It is a sad day for me and many others to think that we will not be hearing directly from you.
My kindest regards to you. -
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May 15, 2012 at 19:36 -
Well said Julia
Totally agree
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May 14, 2012 at 07:17 -
Thank you for all your work and providing a home for so much interesting debate. I found your site through Guido in late 2009 and it has always been on my daily catch up list. I wish you happiness and relaxation and wish the new landlords all the best – perhaps they could have a post of the nuttiest abusive emails they receive each week so that those who send them cannot hide!! Again, thank you.
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May 14, 2012 at 07:23
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May 14, 2012 at 07:18 -
Anna, I’m devastated !!!!! I hesitate to call you a ‘game old bird’, but you really are – dealing with the unpleasantness of the fat fraudster , then your close encounter with the grim reaper, it is bound to tire a girl out !
I’m saddened to hear about the abuse you receive – and baffled, the commenters on this blog seem to me to be some of the sanest and wisest peeps out there and the topics invariably interesting – a beacon of civilisation online.
Absolutely all the best to you and Mr G , pop in and see us from time to time ! Good luck to Sad and Mat , please keep up the standards set by Anna ! -
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May 14, 2012 at 07:32 -
Thank you. Enjoy your life beyond this blog.
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May 14, 2012 at 07:38 -
Thank you Anna for the time and effort you have put into your blog over the years. Your writings have always been through provoking, amusing, and on occasion have challenged and shifted my opinions. You will be sorely missed.
Enjoy your retirement. May it be long and happy.
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May 14, 2012 at 07:40
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May 14, 2012 at 07:43 -
Goodbye, and thanks for all the fish. Anna, I hope you will be “guest-posting” very regularly, how about once or twice a day, ha ha?
And I hope you enjoy your 2nd life to the full, leaving “the shop” in safe & trustworthy hands, and with the serenity your miraculous recovery has wrought.
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May 14, 2012 at 07:44 -
AR, glad to hear your health is not an issue but sad to see you leave the blogosphere. Nothing against the new licensees here but the blogosphere was richer for having had your thoughts in it and will be a little poorer without them. Enjoy your retirement and above all stay well.
Sláinte mhaith,
A slightly melancholy Exile. -
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May 14, 2012 at 07:59 -
I have loved your blog and wish you every happiness in your much-deserved retirement.
I shall continue to support the new Landlord but, I must admit, will miss your posts which always seem to hit a particular spot with me.
Good luck and bon voyage.
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May 14, 2012 at 08:02 -
Well at least the blog continues. Ms Raccoon, I might not have contributed much, but the first time I did, I received a personal note from the landlady. I read your contribution in the comments to a post by Legiron, so wasn’t especially surprised to find this. Devastated, but not surprised.
Wishing you and Mr G all the best for the future. If you ever want an alternative trip round Amsterdam, mail me.
Ian
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May 14, 2012 at 08:18 -
So sorry to read this Anna, your writing is some of the best in the blogosphere. I can quite understand your reasoning though, so enjoy the rest and hope to meet you again when you’re next in Blighty.
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May 14, 2012 at 08:45 -
I’ve never said much, but you’ve been my first read almost every day since well before the Masters of Lunacy post that made me sit, nay, wake up, and for that alone I have always respected your views, and sometimes followed your advice which you freely gave. I would selfishly disagree with your decision to quit but you have been hurt so many times now (Why. That’s not a question!) and I’m not selfish. I hope you guest post though. Cheerio Anna, all the best.
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May 14, 2012 at 08:50 -
Thank you for being here, setting a standard and living through it. Hope ‘Life No 2′ brings joy and happiness to you and yours – richly deserved.
Good luck to the new landlords – it’s a hard act to follow.
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May 14, 2012 at 08:51 -
I’m sorry to read your announcement – although not altogether surprised. I shall miss your writing and your underlying humour. Please take care of yourself – and pay a visit from time to time. And many thanks for hosting my own blog link on your site: I owe a lot of my readership to those who visit your site first.
Speramus meliora. -
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May 14, 2012 at 08:55 -
Hi Anna, I’m one of those 25,000 odd shy strangers who found you via a link a couple of years ago – may well have been from Guido! Although well on in years I was a newcomer to the Blogosphere and continued reading you most days because of the enjoyment of well written, intelligent, sometimes humorous and always interesting articles and comments (although I often disagreed) and stayed because there wasn’t the extraordinary unpleasantness found elsewhere in this on-line world. Little did I know what was going on behind the scenes and am very sorry to learn about what you’ve had to deal with. I’m also very sorry to have made you feel that mine were ‘prying’ eyes – that wasn’t my intention and hope there were thousands of others like me. Perhaps if more of us had responded here on a regular basis (this is the first comment I’ve ever submitted on a blog) and actually told you that we liked you, liked what you were doing and were praying for you when you were ill then you might not have reached this point. I wish you and Mr G. good fortune
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May 14, 2012 at 09:23 -
Well said Charles, your sentiments I’m sure will be held by many others.
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May 14, 2012 at 18:03 -
Charles has written much what I was about to. it seems that there were plenty of ‘strangers’ hanging around the place who shall miss what you had to say.
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May 15, 2012 at 08:18 -
I’m one of those as well. I read a lot of blogs, and I simply can’t comment on all of them, he’ll I hardly ever post on my own!
Welcome to the 99.5 percent Anna, hope it treats you well. You will be missed.
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May 14, 2012 at 08:56 -
What they said.
I haven’t always agreed with every (well-written) word, but you never once turned me away nor refused my scribblings on any particular subject. I thank you for that. Be happy, and be well. (On the subject of nutters, I get my fair share and I often feel as as if I am dealing with the clinically insane so I completely understand the need to distance yourself from that insanity).
Saddy & Matt, if you two are prepared to continue writing great posts then I will continue to call in and leave my 10 cents. Good luck to you both.
CR.
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May 14, 2012 at 09:08 -
Sue. I’m also sad that you’re handing over they keys to the till. I’ve always read your posts with a sense of awe and envy, that you can find out what most of us miss going on around us. I do hope that you can be tempted to smuggle an occasional post past the bouncers at the pub door.
However, and this a warning. If the new incumbents of the Raccoon Arms don’t live up to your high standards, It will leave me with no recourse but to call in trading standards. Matt and SBML. you have a high standard to aspire to. Then again having read your posts, I don’t think we have much to worry about.
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May 14, 2012 at 09:09 -
Well Anna, we only ” met ” yesterday and through some very fateful and Google circumstances but WOW . HELLO.
I am a little sad that I just found this place of yours at this significant time, but I shall read all I can and look forward to maybe getting to know you and G better – if circumstances allow.
Loving reading all the posts and comments. I may be a lurker , or I may be a poster.
xx
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May 14, 2012 at 10:30 -
Christine,
We only met yesterday, but your e-mail to me has taken away any lingering sadness at my retirement.
I shall not give away any more of the tale than I have to here – but – Christine Googled the name of Mr G’s best friend, about whom I had written an eulogy some four years ago when he died, long before I started this blog. It was probably one of the first things I ever wrote. Loathe as I am to give Anorak a link, I am grateful to Yampster for setting Christine on the right path to find me.
http://www.anorak.co.uk/forums/topic.php?id=1116
It looks almost certain that Mr G’s best friend was the Father of Christine’s husband – a father he had been searching for for ten years. That through my first feeble efforts at writing, I have probably managed to bring peace and – ghastly American term – ‘closure’ to someone I have never met, through the blogging medium, is the best retirement present I could have had.
All day yesterday we exchanged e-mails and photographs and phone calls and once we have managed to establish definitively that this doesn’t just look and sound like the right man, but really is – we have a wonderful surprise for Christine’s husband. I am a little sad that ‘Bruce’ should have tracked down his Father too late to meet him, but at least he will be in contact with his Father’s best friend, who knew and loved him like a brother for 35 years.
That the Internet can be a force for the good is the last memory I shall take away with me from this blog. How wonderful is that?
Thank-you for all your kind comments.
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May 14, 2012 at 11:52 -
Anna,
I can’t tell you how sad and happy Bruce and I have been this weekend. . . it will be a bitter/sweet outcome that is for sure.
We were both blown away by your kindness, and so sorry we could not just jump in the car and come to see you both .We have to wait for the wheels of bureaucracy to grind now, but lets hope this does not take too long
Confirmation will be sad , one way or another.We WILL meet, one day I am sure of that,
xx
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May 14, 2012 at 09:16 -
Dear Anna
Like many I found your website via Guido. As I’ve said before, I have not always agreed with you, but have always admired your clarity of thought and intellectual honesty. That is the reason you have so many followers. At the risk of being sentimental, the web is going to be a poorer place for your retirement. Good luck to the new landlords, they have a big act to follow (OK, mixed metaphors),
All the best
Mike
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May 14, 2012 at 09:20 -
I have been a pair of “prying eyes” for some time and I am sorry if by not posting I appeared to contribute to hostility. Far from it. I enjoyed and admired what you wrote and failure to comment was really down to knowing that I could not attain your clarity of thought and expression. May good fortune go with you.
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May 14, 2012 at 09:40
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May 14, 2012 at 09:23 -
**Wassname reflects on his previous comment. Sod it, it’s worth a try**
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!
DONT
Goooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!**Sits down, stares at screen and waits like Nipper**
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May 14, 2012 at 09:31 -
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May 14, 2012 at 09:31 -
I’ll not only miss your focused investigations and subsequent angles on these stories, but your command of english …. with no spellers and grammaticals. You know the difference between it’s and its, and effect and affect.
Personally I don’t know how you have kept it up so long. I write reports and do the odd bit of specialised journalism. I find it hard work especially when faced with a blank screen. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your retirement; it’ll be hard to stayy away, I’m sure.
We’ll miss you, but will you miss us?
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May 14, 2012 at 09:34 -
I would like to add my own appreciation and thanks to you, both for the excellent, thought provoking blog, (always a daily highlight) and also for being kind enough to review me some while ago.
Many thanks and enjoy semi-cyber retirement safe in the knowledge you have enriched life for quite a few of us.
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37
May 14, 2012 at 09:39 -
It is indeed sad news but conversely it brings best wishes to you and Mr. G for your future blog-free life.
To SBML and MW, many thanks for keeping the blog going and best of luck to you both.
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38
May 14, 2012 at 09:50 -
Sorry to see you go into retirement, Anna. I’ve been a fan since first tripping across the site – the mug sits on my desk in Bradford City Hall (well the deputy leader’s desk actually – I am camped out in that position until they rumble me) as a reminder not to get too grand.
When my Dad stood down from the London Borough of Bromley (this councillor-ing is in the blood) it shocked us that he didn’t just retire from the Council and from work but cut his links entirely. Sold the house, bought a boat and headed off to Sheppey. But when we look at it now, it was the right choice for him and for my Mum.
So do what you wish with your life – travel, read books, argue, make love. And if your meanderings bring you to Cullingworth, we’ll make you welcome.
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39
May 14, 2012 at 13:46 -
Good heavens, Simon, deputy council leader? You didn’t duck fast enough, did you – you’re getting slow in your old age!
Anna, I too will miss your ramblings, even though I’ve only come across them recently. I am saddened by the abuse and hurtful remarks you’ve received. I wish you all the peace and quiet, and civilised conversation, and good friendships that you desire.
Go well, and may our paths cross again some time!
Frances Coppola
(outed – Simon’s sister!)
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40
May 14, 2012 at 09:59 -
Yours is one of only a very few ‘shortcuts’ with a permanent place on my desktop. And if only an occasional commenter, I’ve been a daily (and early) reader. My Raccoon ‘fix’ will be sorely missed.
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41
May 14, 2012 at 10:02 -
Oh Anna, I’m so sorry you’ve decided to stop blogging. I only found this site recently and have been hooked ever since. From your description it is not surprising you are cheesed off but please don’t be too hard on those of us who stand quietly on the sidelines, we aren’t necessarily prying eyes. Some of us are conscious that our commonplace asides add very little to the debate and enjoy the wit and wisdom of people like you without drawing attention to our own deficiencies.
I will continue to drop in for the occasional half of bitter and hope that you change your mind. Stay well and happy. Andy -
42
May 14, 2012 at 10:04 -
Sad news indeed. I echo JuliaM in saying your blog has been one of the shining beacons. I can’t say, however, that it’s a big surprise – the changing content of your postings (and latterly the infrequency of them) was a signpost to where you were heading.
But do come back from time to time – you’ve come back before from absences – particularly that terrible time when you deleted your blog history.
In my first comment (of few) I said something like “you make us laugh, you make us cry, you make us think”. So long and thanks for all the fun and the thinking. -
43
May 14, 2012 at 10:16 -
I see from the picture that you’ve left your fur behind, I hope you don’t catch a chill : ) All the best among the French.
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44
May 14, 2012 at 10:34 -
I heard a story from a friend in Sheffield the other day about a grandmother with a *Red Squirrel* fur coat.
Presumably it took dozens on the things.
I bet Anna has one.
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45
May 14, 2012 at 11:32 -
Quite the stunning coat. I once knew an expat yank in Canada who had a (hands over eyes and fingers in ears Anna) Racoon skin coat he’d inherited from his grandfather and that took dozens of skins to make. Very nice though!
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46
May 14, 2012 at 11:58 -
A red squirrel fur coat? You’d have to be nuts to wear one… ;0)
Dear Ms Raccoon,
As a regular reader/lurker and (very) infrequent commenter I’d just like to reiterate the points raised by some above and apologise for not speaking up more. This blog has always been a joy to read and has never failed to conjour up the sensation of worn leather arm chairs, dark wood panelling, crackling log fires and a warm, understated, welcome. I’ve always thought of it as an online version of that old US sitcom, Cheers! – ‘where nobody knows your name’, but I guess we can never fully appreciate how determinedly the swan swimming so serenely across the lake is having to paddle beneath the surface.
All the very best to you and Mr.G for the future, and good luck to the new proprietors. You will be sorely missed.
procrustes
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47
May 14, 2012 at 10:41 -
We shall miss your acerbic wit and insightful analysis.
I wish you all the best for the future. -
48
May 14, 2012 at 10:44 -
From another connected via Guido, many thanks.
You have added to life when so many just feed off it. -
49
May 14, 2012 at 11:15 -
Well, I just read your blog as one amongst dozens that I read. I rarely comment. So colour me offended at being called prying. You can only play if you comment? Sorry to see you go and good luck with the recovery (I’m 15 years and still typing!). But I must say if you’re tarring 99.5% of your readers with same brush, then it’s probably time to call it quits.
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50
May 14, 2012 at 11:35
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51
May 14, 2012 at 11:16 -
Hi Anna,
I’ll just add my best wishes; JuliaM said what I would have said, so I won’t watse your time by repeating it. -
52
May 14, 2012 at 11:16 -
Love and best wishes, Anna!
You have always been more than ready to extend a friendly and helpful paw to your readers – myself included – and it is an appalling shame that some saw fit to bite it.
As JuliaM says, this blog has been a shining beacon of excellence and a fine example of the internet at its best. When the dust has settled, please do consider making a start on those memoirs, or, better still, publish from your seclusion a collection of Montaigne-esque essays.
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53
May 14, 2012 at 11:45 -
Em, I meant to comment on the fur coat too.
When my mother died we discovered two minks and a red squirrel in her wardrobe. Oh and a mink stole made of four whole minks including heads!
My wife is a similar size to my mum so she wondered about keeping them. So we took them to our local dry cleaners – a small independent. Her said: “Are those [in the bags] what I think they are? You’d better come into the back room.” He explained that furs are frowned upon in our neck of the woods for all sorts of animal rights reasons.
He did a great job of cleaning them – they look like new – but they now reside in my wife’s wardrobe. She feels guilty! And we simply don’t go to the events my Mum so enjoyed in the 50s.
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54
May 14, 2012 at 12:01 -
Thank you Anna! You always injected sanity with your blogs. May you flourish inyour retirement. I shall miss you.
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55
May 14, 2012 at 12:10 -
Although I hardly know you, Anna, I have to thank you personally for what you have done for me. Seeing my poetry published is an amazing feeling, and the face that it sometimes instigates debate is the icing on the cake.
I do not hesitate for a second to say that SBML is a great person to pass the torch to. Even if he likes Sleepless in Seattle!
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56
May 14, 2012 at 12:12 -
I’m very relieved to know that health is not a factor here and I wish you every happiness in your life and on your travels, Anna.
Reading the blog has been a joy and a constant demonstration of how it should be done.
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57
May 14, 2012 at 12:23 -
Au revoir Mme Raccoon. Enjoy your retirement! You have often infuriated me with your words but that has been invaluable to me – it is often by asking why I have felt so enraged that I have been able to work out what my own view has really been – and sometimes you have helped me refine my position. So thank you.
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58
May 14, 2012 at 12:57 -
Dear Anne,
Just wanted to write to say good luck and thank you. I haven’t always agreed with everything you have said, but I have always enjoyed reading what you have to say. This obviously proves that we live in an unstable world full of nutters who just can’t just agree to disagree.
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59
May 14, 2012 at 13:01 -
I’ve been one of those 99% silent readers for the last year or so, can’t remember how I found this blog but glad I did. I’m sorry our silence has so upset you. I can’t say I’ve agreed with or even been interested in every post, but there’s been enough that have entertained and informed that I’ve wanted to visit your blog everyday on my leave. Your departing post has maybe been a lesson for us 99%, that it is not enough to just read a blog, we must contribute to it by at least commenting occasionally. Anyway thank you for this blog and good luck for the future.
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60
May 14, 2012 at 13:06 -
Vaya con Dios Anna.
Tony -
61
May 14, 2012 at 13:06 -
Thank you so much for being you. I’ve loved reading your words; they’ve educated and provoked me through the past year or so that I’ve been following your blog. Good luck, pet.
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62
May 14, 2012 at 13:11 -
Anna, I shall miss your writing. As others have already said, it’s always thoughtful and thought-provoking, sometimes hilarious, sometimes deadly serious, but always of a quite remarkably high standard of both humanity and presentation. I’ve enjoyed making some comments, and I’ve especially enjoyed the debate and being able to agree or disagree with other commenters without the need for foul language and abuse, so I’m saddened to hear of all the ‘stuff’ going on in the background. I think you’ve chosen a fine team to take over the bar, and I look forward to many a convivial pint.
Life takes it’s course by many strange turns, and there comes a time to move on. I hope that life’s next stage for you and for Mr G is a fulfilling and peaceful one – and after recent battles, a long and healthy one, too.
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63
May 14, 2012 at 13:16 -
Best wishes in retirement and good luck to the new names over the pub door.
This was always a must-read blog and given your experiences I’m not surprised you’ve decided to concentrate on other things.
May your future be oenological rather than oncological;
Best wishes -
64
May 14, 2012 at 13:26 -
Many thanks and may you fare well in retirement. One word of warning, I am on my fourth “retirement” and I am still not sure it wil last. I was also one of the lurkers in the background for much of the time and am sorry if the thought of those prying eyes caused you discomfort, I just considered myself a quiet soul in the corner supping my gill and enjoying the warmth of the fire.
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65
May 14, 2012 at 13:44 -
Mrs Raccoon,
Thank you for for years of excellent posts, not all of which I agreed with, but so what, it’s your opinion and your blog. May I wish you and Mr G health and happiness in the real sunshine world outside the blogosphere. And good luck to the apprentices. -
66
May 14, 2012 at 14:02 -
Well done Anna Raccoon, thanks for instigating a highly stimulating blog.
I hope you have plenty more years to enjoy whatever it is you most enjoy doing.
Truly, you are a remarkable lady.
Well done too to SBML and MW for picking up the reins – who knows, instead of the criticism I might even submit a few posts of my own for consideration.
We are all a little odd……..we are people who recognise the need for order and for government – but don’t actually like it too much; we are people who recognise the importance of freedom and individuality, but can’t help thinking sometimes that smokers and/or drunks and/or obese whales who freely over-indulge themselves and need to rely on taxpayer’s largesse are taking the piss (and all of us for a ride).
It is sometimes an invidious position – but the process of rationalising it and sorting it all out is part of the fun.
Long may this blog continue.
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67
May 14, 2012 at 14:06 -
Like the many commentators above, I shall also miss you Anna now that you have decided to hang up your keyboard.
Whilst I have not been around as long as some – and certainly not quite so garralous at the bar as a few (no names mentioned!) – I have always looked foward to your writings and their absence will leave a large raccoon shaped hole which is unlikely to be filled.
I remember when I called out a (now long gone) commentator with some unsavouy views and how it seemed at the time that I was waging a lonely fight in attempting to introduce some reality into his blinkered existence. It was very heartening to wake up one morning to find a e-mail of support waiting in my inbox and to realise that my efforts were not completely in vain.
Have a pleasent, and hopefully stress-free, retirement and if you happen to find yourself in London it would be lovely to meet you (if you so wished).
Take care x
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68
May 14, 2012 at 14:07 -
I too am one of the quiet ones that visited frequently but only rarely left a comment. The main reason being that almost always, one of the regulars had beaten me to it! Many thanks for all your hard work and I hope you have a long, happy and healthy retirement. I’ll still visit to check on SBML
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69
May 14, 2012 at 14:08 -
Oh God, this really saddens me. The most loved landlady on the whole Internet is retiring. Just for the record, your Eastern Correspondent will miss your wisdom, humour and sharpness but still hopes that he’ll meet you in person someday over a glass of wine in some French or Croatian wineyard.
Hope we’ll stay in touch. Best of luck in you future adventures, Miss Raccoon
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70
May 14, 2012 at 14:11 -
I echo the comments of Stabledoor and many of the above. Your website is a daily read for me and several of my colleagues, and we all wish you the very best, and very pleased that your spirit within this blog will continue through SBML.
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71
May 14, 2012 at 14:33 -
Oh well, silver linings and all that.
When’s the leaving do!! We can clear all those dusty exotic liquers on the top shelf.
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72
May 14, 2012 at 14:36 -
Dear Anna,
As another of the silent “eyes” who may not have commented more than once or twice- let me add my name to the list those commiserating your departure.
I started following Anna Raccoon around 3 years ago, and I think I’ve read every post in that time. It was at the top of my “to-read” list for much of those 3 years.
Some of your posts warmed, and some made me a little hotter- but throughout, you always came across as a truly splendid human being. I was reassured by your posts (and camp followers) that my faith in humanity might not be completely misplaced.
The quality of some of the poems, puns and other plays on words to have come out of and followed this site has to have been the highest I have seen in a live(ish) environment- testament to the intellects of those who took time to read what you were writing.
Even though we never met (I once was close at an Old Holborn event in London) and I never thought of you as anyone other than Anna Raccoon by name, I have considered you as someone I would help as a friend if the chance was ever there for a good while.
If it is possible, please do keep me on your emails- I promise you will never have any bile in return.
Good luck!
Thomas -
73
May 14, 2012 at 14:51 -
Very sorry to read this, it’s a sort of Gresham’s Law I suppose. But maybe more of us should disconnect the wires and focus on real people around us. Shame there’s so much low-grade mental illness about.
Best wishes, Rolf Norfolk
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74
May 14, 2012 at 15:54 -
I’m sad you’re going, but I can understand. This was one of my daily must-read blogs, and I was even moved to comment a couple of times. I hope it stays as good under new management.
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75
May 14, 2012 at 16:01
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76
May 14, 2012 at 16:06 -
Long time lurker and constant admirer of your writings and you as a person. Enjoy you retirement Ms Raccoon, you’ve earned it.
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77
May 14, 2012 at 16:07 -
I echo all thoae great & positive comments that have gone before, Anna…
you will be very much missed. Please do keep in occasional personal touch with me.
I have no doubt about the capability of the new landlords whom I hope I can continue to follow for as many years as I have followed you.
Enjoy your life, Anna!O/T for the new hosts:
I get Michelle Malkin’s daily newsletter in which she also publishes the Hate Tweet of the day….some diabolically obscene…together with the pervert’s Twitter address. Just a thought. -
78
May 14, 2012 at 16:11 -
…………by the bye, I neither Tweet nor Facebook, thus remaining private and sane.
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79
May 14, 2012 at 16:13 -
End of a Hera.
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82
May 14, 2012 at 17:43 -
I sad see you going.
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83
May 14, 2012 at 17:48 -
What a wonderful piece by Anna Raccoon. I have been an occasional visitor to this blog. Though I haven’t commented I have been very impressed by the posts. I think what she has said and described here reflects a pioneering development in the way people connect and the way politics is done. I haven’t read the other comments here yet but will do so. Wishing her every happiness for the future. And all success to the new landlords.
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84
May 14, 2012 at 19:04 -
Sorry to hear this Anna, but I fully understand your reasons. Health wise you’ve been given a second chance, unlike my father who wasn’t so lucky, and you should definitely make the most of it. I visit the Raccoon Arms every day, although admit to not reading every post, or commenting perhaps as much as I should. I know your feelings about risking offence with almost anything you say – I often find myself composing a long reply, and then having doubts followed by the swift application of the “delete” button. I very much doubt that I could take the amount of cr*p you have and still carry on. I’m sure the new management will do an excellent job in your absence. Best wishes for the future – should you ever find yourself back on this side of the Channel I would be pleased to meet you and Mr G. If I can help with anything you know where I am.
MD -
85
May 14, 2012 at 19:36 -
Dear Anna,
I cannot say that I was an avid reader of your blog, but I did come once in a while to read the poetry, and always appreciated what I found, no matter the point of view.
You see, my story is somewhat similar to yours. Expat looking to recreate an environment that I missed, I first joined a poetry website as a writer, then as a moderator. The trolls came, the atmosphere got ugly, the website shut down. So I thaught myself how to build a site (in those days, none of those already made programs!) and created my own little jewel, no roses, no angels, just solid, meaningful poetry written by people from all over the world. And then the trolls came again and, like you, they eventually got the best of me and drove me away.
It has been several years now, and I still ask myself why people are so mean. I am still looking for the one answer, but I think there are many, too many really, as many as there are individuals. One thing seems certain to me: a lot of people are deeply unhappy, frustrated by their life or lack thereof, and, anonymity garanteed by the medium, aim their anger at those engaged in a productive, positive endeavour.
Anyway… I am sorry for your loss, I thank you for all your work and for this great forum , and I wish you all the best of health and luck for the future.
Annie
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86
May 14, 2012 at 19:41 -
Sad to see you go – you were the best!
Glad to hear you can derive pleasure from the real world and may that long continue.
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87
May 14, 2012 at 19:46 -
I can read but I just can’t type, so I’m one of the 99.5%. I keep up with my blogs every day, love your stuff, love the comments,
A heartfelt thanks for all your time and effort.
Best wishes, shall miss you,Nigel
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88
May 14, 2012 at 19:47 -
I will really miss your blog Anna, it was the second one I read every day, but I am very glad to hear it is not health related. We were both so lucky to have asymptomatic cancer found, hope you will let me know how it goes and that you are still doing well. Enjoy your well earned retirement but I hope you will drop in from time to time. I didn’t always agree with you but could always see where you were coming from, I just cannot understand the vindictive posts and emails you write about – what’s wrong with these people? I hope you will add me to your email list, I would love to hear from you. Take care.
Carol
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89
May 14, 2012 at 20:18 -
To mark that a dear friend of mine
Is ringing the bell to call ‘Time!’
To retire to the snug
With her knees ‘neath a rug,
I thought I’d pen just one more rhymeTo say “Thanks” for the bar she has run;
Promoting good chat and good fun,
Sharp satire and wit,
Why the place was a hit!
(With just the occasional pun!)Some quarrels will never be won,
And some things just shouldn’t be done,
Such as flirty debate
With A Monk who’s best mate
Is a dangerous, gun-toting Nun!Mme R ran her bar with good grace,
Whoever turned up at the place;
Even this hayseed yokel
Could call it her local
And no one said “Why the long face?”So fare well, Madame R, and take care,
Look after yourself over there
In La Belle France, and do
Know we’re grateful to you
For your time in the Landlady’s chair.xxxx
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93
May 14, 2012 at 20:34 -
All the best, Ms Raccoon
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94
May 14, 2012 at 20:37 -
Bravo Anna, the best of the best. I’m in. Sad, Matt, let’s drink to the new pub!
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95
May 14, 2012 at 20:38 -
Make mine a large one. No, really…
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96
May 14, 2012 at 20:59 -
I will miss your blogs very much as I come here every day. My favorite post remains the one about your uncle. Your energy amazes me. Stay well. x
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97
May 14, 2012 at 21:28 -
Dear Miss Racoon,
Noted with concern your recent absence, very happy you are back even if temporary? Not good with words,hence never posted, endorse all previous
comments and send my sincere good wishes to Mr G and yourself. -
98
May 14, 2012 at 21:46 -
I’ve read this final blog from Anna with great sadness.
I’m relieved about one thing above all — it wasn’t (isn’t) this beastly cancer which has prompted the withdrawal. Anna is leaving of her own volition to pursue other leisure pursuits. Well, not entirely of her own volition; a decision prompted by the irritants (perhaps I should express it more strongly?) of attempts at browbeating her into writing or not writing about subjects according to the whims, fancies or sensitivities of those who take offence at this or that. That, I understand, is the very antithesis of everything at the core of libertarianism ( a philosophy, I confess, I struggle with). But I do, fully, understand that there is never an intention to offend, and very little if anything, ever, in articles published to take offence at. Perhaps provoke and stimulate debate, yes. But then, that is the essence of blogging and inviting response to articles written.
Albeit that Anna is, for me, the best writer on this blog, there are very many other fine writers to take up Anna’s mantle, and the blog is (I think) in good hands.
In the meantime I join others in wishing Anna every happiness and (especially) health in continuing with whatever she chooses to turn her hand to in lieu of blogging.
God bless you, Anna.
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99
May 14, 2012 at 22:05 -
My dear Anna/Ms. Raccoon/Susanna: I am truly sorry, bereft even, to hear that you are hanging up your apron… Whilst I have no doubt that the bar has passed into capable and excellent hands, I must say that I admired the sheer quality of your posts, the depth of thought behind the comments and the broad range of subjects that passed under your careful scrutiny.
Go and live your life. I wish you every joy of every moment of it. Those who denigrated you and caused you angst and grief are unworthy of the nonclementure ‘human being’.
You may reflect, in your retirement from this blog that you created something noble, that you remained true to your Quaker ideals, that you did no harm and a deal of good, that you brought disparate people together and that you have given a great many of us a massive amount of enjoyment.
Plus ça change, plus c’est la même chose… Landlord! Mine’s a pint please!!
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100
May 14, 2012 at 22:29 -
Au revoir, Ms Raccoon (and Mr G). Enjoy a glass or two of something extra-specially nice…
John.
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101
May 14, 2012 at 22:44 -
Best wishes, Anna.
I don’t share your unflinching promotion of the benevolence of humanity, but your controlled optimism has challenged misanthropy and has allowed me to hope I am wrong.
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102
May 14, 2012 at 22:52 -
I think I came here via OH. This blog is one of two or three I read daily – I’m not really a “bloggy” person, but there was something different here.
I’ve very much enjoyed the rare insights, funny stories, touching and sometimes heartbreaking news behind the headlines. Anna, your writing style is eminently readable and kind to the senses. Wishing you the very best in the “real world”.
To Matt and SBML – looking forward to more of the same. I’m sure the blog is in very good hands.
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103
May 14, 2012 at 23:05 -
Sorry you are leaving Anna and I do wish you well.
I don’t think I have commented here before so I am probably one of the silent majority. That does not make us all nasty though and I suspect most of us have enjoyed your writing and would support you rather than denigrate you.
In particular, I found your writing about your cancer treatment a great help. My daughter was going through it at that time and I think it enabled me to understand just a little more. I was going to show your post to her but my wife did not think it a good idea. Never did understand women, and I sometimes suspect that women don’t understand them either.
Never mind, as I said, sorry to see you go.
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104
May 14, 2012 at 23:19 -
Thank you for your enlightenment, entertainment & education.
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105
May 15, 2012 at 00:06 -
I do so very much enjoy this blog. I am shocked that people email you with hate mail. I know that feeling of doing something in all innocence with the best motives, only to become depressed at the sheer bloody mindedness of others.
So thank you for entertaining me for years. Thank you for bringing stuff to my attention which I might never have known. And Im sorry I went all cybernatty a few months back. I will miss you. Good luck.
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106
May 15, 2012 at 00:09 -
Bloody hell, not again!
I would love to think that you just need a bit of a rest, and will back in due course, I certainly hope so.
But whatever happens – may you have good health, good fortune and good friends.
Thank you for the hard work and the sparkling prose… -
107
May 15, 2012 at 00:25 -
OK, I know what’s happening!
Somehow you’re working from a copy of Theresa May’s calendar. So you thought “14th May” was “May’s 1/4″ and this is all an April Fool’s joke. Geddit?
Sorry, I’ll get my coat.
I suppose I have to concede you’re too intelligent to make the same mistakes as the kitten heeled faux pas mine layer. In which case I’m so sorry to see you go. It’s been a unique experience reading your fascinating posts and the comments here.
Best wishes to you and Mr G. And if you’re ever in the East Anglia area, I’d be honoured to treat you and Mr G. to a slap up high tea at The Orchard in Grantchester.
Kindest regards,
Daedalus X. Parrot
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108
May 15, 2012 at 00:45 -
I was sent here by Alan Douglas with the instruction to submit my doggerel & seek the honour of posting in the poetry archive
it did often find favour, and and what a favour: (and always graced by an outstanding choice of photo by our hostess)
everything positive in the hundred and more comments above is entirely right
what a lady, what an advertisement for humanity
stay well, Anna
Nick
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109
May 15, 2012 at 01:09 -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8UL_9R_W-Y
Landlady, my landlady!
Truth and honesty is hard to bear for some, I have never been so priveleged to be part of the 0.5% minority. Thank you for the fine contributions you have made, I hope I will be priveleged to make the short-list for your e-mails.
Carpe diem Anna and Mr G.
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110
May 15, 2012 at 02:49 -
Dear Madame, you have brought much pleasure to this Englishman abroad and I wish you only the very best. And to SBML, I will continue to read every day and comment very occasionally. Good fortune to you too, Sir.
Anna, m’dear, THANK YOU for your patience and fortitude. We all ‘move on’ at some point and look back with a mix of regret and great happiness. I will look forward to your occasional pieces, which I am sure you will not be able to resist posting.
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111
May 15, 2012 at 03:20 -
It is very sad that you have decided to retire, Anna.
It seems to me that it is precisely when one is having the greatest impact that one should re-double one’s efforts! We have so many inroads being made into our freedoms that it is hard to see when the persecution will stop. In fact, there is no reason to believe that it will ever stop. Why? Because government has been allowed to become so complicated that politicians can no longer cope at all. What can the prime minister do about anything at all except accept what ‘the experts’ tell him to do? In fact, I think that few ‘ministers’ are any different. They are politicians and do not know what to do. They know what to say, but not what to do. Some of them are out-and-out opportunists (like Health Minister Lansley).
Anyway, “bonne chance”. I am sure that your successors will maintain the ethos of your blog.
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112
May 15, 2012 at 06:12 -
Anna,
I’ve given up reading all the wonderful comments (#109 already) as the sentiments are consistent and, of course, I agree.
I have been reading your site for a couple of years and previously posting under a different name. I have been consistently amazed at not just the quantity of the output but also (and most definitely) the quality. Top class.
I wish you all the best.
Mr. Frost
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113
May 15, 2012 at 08:30 -
Anna,
As a long time reader and very occasional poster, I just want to thak you for all the hours of incisive comment and, yes, entertainment that you have brought to my sad little life over the many months since I first wandered by.
One of only three bloggers ever to grace my toolbar with their own link, this is a sad day indeed. I wish you all the very best in your future endeavours.
Fish x -
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May 15, 2012 at 09:38 -
Somewhat selfishly I shall miss you Anna. Yours was one of the first blogs I regularly read when I discovered the blogosphere, andhas always been one of the most consistently well written, considerate and informative.
Somehow you have captured the art of being incisive and damning when pointing out the injustices around us while yet always being positive and forward looking, never judging people for their human failing and foibles however harshly you rated their action. I shall greatly miss your wit, personality and understanding.
But you deserve a life free from the stress of obligations to strangers and with time to enjoy yourself. I thank you for all the insights and entertainmentyou have brought me and wish you all the best. Go have some fun! -
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May 15, 2012 at 12:25 -
Your departure from the blogosphere is a huge loss to this youthful realm. Small children snipe and whine at those above them in the hope that by bringing down the giants they have raised themselves up. You figured out that the best way to grow was to shine light on the hidden and let all grow together. You shine; your ideas shine; your thoughts shine. No wonder we wanted to read your stuff.
I understand too why you feel the need to fade into the West and applaud your courage and honesty in choosing this course of action.
I too was one of the faceless watchers who found you from Guido’s site a while ago. You made me lift my eyes from the daily grind and look where I hadn’t looked before – I didn’t always like what I saw but I will not regret looking.
Thank you
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May 15, 2012 at 12:28 -
“Raccoon Arms” was, is, and (I’m certain) always will be – a comfortable place to sit amongst friends who can think – even if they might sometimes think differently.
Very many thanks to Anna for her Blogging – and for other activities referred to (especially in connection with ‘Court of Protection’).
And Best Wishes to the new Management.
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117
May 15, 2012 at 12:55 -
Anna, It is a sad day when the bastards from compost corner have finally ground you down.
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May 15, 2012 at 14:16 -
All the very best Anna, your vision that a blog entry could a starting point of a conversation was certainly true in my case, as this is the only blog I have ever commented on in any (semi) regular basis.
I am sorry to hear of your ill treatment and problems, and those who have brought you to this pass ought to take a step back and ask themselves what they have actually gained from their actions.
Finally, I am very proud to have been a (tiny) part of the Racoon Arms and promise that I will continue to drop in and join the conversation.
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119
May 15, 2012 at 16:30 -
I wish you all the best in your retirement and hope that occasionally you’ll be incensed enough by some piece of authoritarian stupidity to once again throw some pithy prose at it.
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May 15, 2012 at 17:44 -
Thank you so much for your blog, Anna, it was my daily read. There’s no point me repeating what the kind folk have said in so many better ways than I ever could, but I wish you and Mr G all the best.
Good luck to the new proprietors! I also wish them well.
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May 15, 2012 at 20:14 -
Hi Anna,
I am also one of the 99% who read, but never comment. In fact I’ve never commented on a blog before. I just like to read intelligent articles from people not willing to swallow the party line and not afraid to take an alternative view from the ‘acceptable’ position. Yours is one such blog, and I have read it regularly for over three years now. I hope the new management maintain the high standards. From their previous posts, I think it is in safe hands. Best wishes with your ‘retirement’.
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May 15, 2012 at 21:09 -
Anna, whatever … BEST to you & Mr. G.!
Take care. -
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May 15, 2012 at 21:37 -
I’m also one of these people who read but don’t post.
I’m sorry to hear the news Anna and even more sorry to hear about how people treated you.All the best to you. Take care.
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May 15, 2012 at 22:02 -
Goodbye Anna, you’ll be missed.
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