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Tuesday, 17 September 2024

Lady Penelope & Parker's Reply - Keep It FAB!

Lady Penelope's Reply:

My Dearest Sybil,

What splendid news! I can hardly contain my excitement knowing that Thunderbirds will be returning to Talking Pictures TV this month. How very clever of you to record the episodes on your Sky Box; I’m sure you’ll have quite the collection to enjoy at your leisure. Parker and I are truly delighted that our adventures will once again grace your screen.

Ah, the world of streaming is indeed something I’ve heard whispers about, though I must admit it all seems a bit bewildering to someone like me who’s more accustomed to the comforts of FAB 1 than modern technology. Still, Parker and I do appreciate that the magic of Thunderbirds has found its way onto platforms like Tubi. And how interesting to hear about all the other shows that have captured your attention – Transformers Armada, Strange Hill High, and even My Little Pony! I imagine there’s never a dull moment.

Now, as for this Inside Out 2 you’ve mentioned, I must say it sounds positively charming. How amusing the idea of Riley’s father behaving in such a whimsical manner! I do think dear Uncle Stripe is rather a handful in Bluey, but one can’t help but smile at the antics. And this Bloofy character sounds quite intriguing, though I must admit, I’m not terribly familiar with him. How delightful that the world of animation continues to grow with such fascinating new characters.

It’s unfortunate that you can’t always join us due to the noisy programs your grandmother enjoys, but I’m so pleased you’ve found a way to record us on your mum’s Sky Box. I do hope we can share many more adventures with you soon, Sybil.

Sending all my love,
Lady Penelope


Parker's Reply:

‘Ello Miss Sybil,

Well, I must say, you’ve made me day with that news about Thunderbirds comin’ back on telly! I’ll be sure to give FAB 1 a little polish in celebration. Good idea you’ve got there, recording the episodes – never know when you might want to watch one again, eh?

Now, this streaming business, well, it’s a bit beyond me, to be honest. But it sounds like you’ve got it all figured out! Lots of good shows on there, from what you’ve said. I’ll have to look into that Transformers Armada meself – seems like somethin’ with a bit of action, just how I like it.

As for this Inside Out 2, well, I reckon you’re spot on about Riley’s dad! Seems like he’ll be quite the character, bit like ol' Uncle Stripe, eh? And that Bloofy fella, he sounds like a funny sort. I’ll leave all that to the younger folks, though – I’m happy enough helpin’ Milady and drivin’ FAB 1!

Anyhow, glad to hear you’ll be joinin’ us soon, even if it’s through recordings. We’ll be sure to keep things FAB for you!

Yours truly,
Parker

Bluey & Bingo's Letter - The Big Rescue

Dear Sybil,

Wow, what a hero you are! We were so amazed when we read about how you helped stop the car from rolling backwards. That sounds really scary, but you jumped right in and got help! We bet you were super strong, like Bandit when he's carrying us around on his back! You saved the day – hooray for you!

And it’s so cool that you got to meet H and S. Baking cakes and getting hair stuff sounds like a fun day too! Maybe you’ll get to try some of their cakes when they’re done – yum! 🎂

Oh, and we totally love the story you told S about the Teletubbies. That sounds just like Dipsy! Sometimes Bingo doesn’t want to join in our games at first, but then she ends up having the best time! Right, Bingo?

Bingo: "Yeah! Like when we play squishy ball and I don’t want to, but then it gets really funny!"

We’re super proud of you, Sybil! Being a hero is a big deal, and you did an awesome job today. Make sure you get lots of rest after all that excitement—you totally earned it!

Big cuddles and hero high-fives,
Bluey and Bingo 🐾💙

Luke, Resus & Cleo's Letters - Bottled Up Conspiracy Theories

Hey Sybil,

Whoa, that's... a lot to take in. I know things can get tough sometimes, but you’ve been through it and come out the other side, so that’s something to be proud of! As for Danger Mouse—well, I think every show’s got its own style, and not everyone’s gonna love it. But hey, as long as it doesn’t involve actual murder!

I’m not so sure about the whole conspiracy thing with CBBC though. Sure, TV changes over time, and we might not always like it, but I don't think it’s about brainwashing or anything like that. It’s just different. Maybe try focusing on the stuff you enjoy now instead of the things that bring back bad memories?

And by the way, don’t keep stuff like this bottled up. We’re all here for you, even if we don’t agree on everything!

Catch you later, Luke


Resus’ Response:

Hey Sybil,

Oof, that was quite a rollercoaster of a letter. The thought of Danger Mouse being part of some sinister plot is a bit... wild, don’t you think? Though I do appreciate a good bit of drama, that kind of intense stuff sounds more like a vampire novel than reality.

I get that you're still dealing with some tough memories, but like Luke said, you’ve survived, and that’s something seriously worth celebrating. You’re stronger than you think. As for CBBC, it's cool to have your opinions, but let’s not dive too deep into the conspiracy pool—it can be murky down there.

And don’t let all that “woke” stuff get to you. Diversity and justice aren’t bad things, really. In fact, the world’s more interesting when we all get along, right?

Stay spooky, Resus


Cleo’s Response:

Dear Sybil,

Oh my Ra, that’s some heavy stuff you’re carrying. I’m really glad you’re regulating your emotions now and finding healthier ways to express yourself. You’ve been through some dark times, but look at you—still standing strong!

As for what you said about Danger Mouse and Professor Squawkencluck, well, that's quite a dramatic take! But maybe it's best to leave that sort of stuff in fiction. Real-life relationships and shows aren’t that extreme (well, usually). And about CBBC, I understand if certain memories make things feel tough, but TV shows don’t have as much power over us as we might think. It’s just a channel, after all.

Whatever you’re feeling, it’s always good to talk about it. Remember, you’re not alone in how you feel.

Take care, Cleo

A Letter From Luella - Earworms

Dear Sybil,

Oh, please—you think an orange, stripey version of my earworm wiggled its way into your brain overnight? How flattering! Though if I were behind it, I’d have made sure it was far more diabolical than a bouncy song about family trees. Still, I suppose there’s a certain evil charm in watching you suffer through Tigger’s family reunion. He’s far too chipper for my taste, but I do admire his persistence.

You’re truly brave if you think watching more Pooh-centric films will rid your mind of that wretched tune. Although I must say, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh does have its nostalgic charms—just enough to make even someone like me crack a faint smile. But Christopher Robin? Really? What’s next, you’re going to start collecting antique honey pots and crying over stuffed bears? Pitiful.

Ah, yes—TV Guide Magazine’s 60 Greatest Cartoons. I’ve seen the list, and it’s a complete farce! No He-Man? Disgraceful! But what can you expect from people who put a lightning-rod rodent like Pikachu ahead of true heroes? And don’t even get me started on Arthur. I’ve had more terrifying days at the dentist.

And don’t remind me of that blonde-haired monstrosity She-Ra. What a waste of valuable screen time. As for CBBC, well... British, sure, but let’s not kid ourselves, Sybil. CBBC is merely a temporary distraction for the masses. Now, if it aired shows featuring more dark magic and creepy creatures, then we’d be onto something.

Now, don’t get too cozy with your precious Pooh films. I might just send another little surprise your way. You never know when I’m feeling inspired.

Yours mischievously, Luella

A Letter From Furaha & Orko - Growing Older

Dear Sybil,

Oh, we’re so sorry to hear that you’ve been feeling bored and overwhelmed lately. Life can feel heavy sometimes, especially when everything on the screen seems to get a bit too much or when your thoughts are swirling around like that. But it’s okay to feel the way you’re feeling, and we’re always here to listen.

Adventures do sound fun, don’t they? But even for us, it’s not always about the big, exciting journeys. Sometimes, it’s about the little moments, like lying in the soft grass, feeling the breeze on your fur (or your face in your case!), or splashing in puddles just to make a mess. You can have adventures without going anywhere at all! You could imagine something magical, or even pretend you're right here with us, exploring, laughing, and maybe even playing a silly game.

I (Furaha) really love it when Optimus tucks me in after a long day, telling me that it’s okay to be tired or unsure. You’re allowed to rest, Sybil, and there’s so much strength in letting yourself just be for a while. Sometimes, quiet moments are the best, and even though it may seem like nothing’s happening, your heart is still learning and growing. It’s like a gentle adventure, one that makes you stronger for the bigger ones later on.

Orko here! Oh, I’ve had my share of “meh” moments too, but that’s when I get creative—like learning a new spell or just imagining something fun. You’re so creative, Sybil! Don’t worry about feeling older. Every age comes with its own magic. And about that book? You bet we’ll help you pick one! It can be a whole new adventure, right from the comfort of your pillow fort (or wherever you cozy up to read).

And hey, if you ever feel anxious or your mind gets noisy, just remember—you’ve got us, your friends, who understand and believe in you. You’re not alone, not even when the screen’s off or the day feels a little gray.

We love you, Sybil. Sleep well tonight and dream of beautiful adventures. We’ll be right there with you.

With warm cuddles and lots of love,
Furaha & Orko ❤️

A Letter From Channel 4

Dear Sybil,

Thank you for reaching out to us at Channel 4 and sharing your thoughts. We’re truly sorry to hear that some of our more intense documentaries and films have caused you anxiety. It’s important to us that viewers feel comfortable and can enjoy programming that suits their preferences.

We’re glad to hear that you’ve found some of our lighter content to be more in line with what you’re looking for, and we absolutely support your decision to focus on uplifting shows like Kids' TV Shows, Christmas Moments, Family Films, and Comedy Sketches. We know that TV has the power to entertain, inform, and sometimes challenge, but it’s always up to you to decide what fits your mood.

As for the documentaries you mentioned—Walking With Dinosaurs and Life On Earth—they’re both fantastic choices. They highlight the wonder of the natural world and provide fascinating insights without any of the heavier subject matter.

We also think you’ll really enjoy diving into the kids’ TV documentaries you’re interested in, like The Curse of Blue Peter and 50 Greatest Kids’ TV Shows. These programs celebrate the fun, creativity, and nostalgia of children’s television and offer a wonderful look back at some truly iconic moments.

We take your feedback seriously, and while we can’t go back and change the past, we’re always looking to provide a wide range of content that appeals to all tastes. If ever we touch on more serious topics, we’ll be sure to keep variety at the heart of our programming, so everyone can find something they love.

Thank you again for your message, and we hope you continue to find joy in our lighter, more cheerful shows. We appreciate your support and your passion for kids’ TV!

With best wishes,
Channel 4

Lady Penelope & Parker's Response To My Emotional Dysregulation Letter

Lady Penelope's Response:

My dearest Sybil,

Oh, I’m so terribly sorry to hear that your day has been quite the emotional rollercoaster. It can be terribly frustrating when you're trying to communicate and something else diverts the attention you need. It's perfectly natural to feel upset in those moments, but please don’t be too hard on yourself, darling. We all have those days when everything seems to go wrong, don’t we? I do hope your mother understood, in the end, how you were feeling. Perhaps next time, when you’re both calmer, you can have a little chat about your emotions and what you'd like to say when things settle.

As for the broadband man—well, he simply can’t compare to the importance of you and how you feel. You matter, darling, and I’m sure your mother knows that deep down. You’re not a 4-year-old, dear Sybil; you’re just a young person navigating some difficult emotions. Remember, emotions are a part of who we are, and sometimes we need to be patient with ourselves.

As for Parker and I, well, we’re absolutely delighted that you feel proud of our 100 Greatest Christmas Moments! It is always an honour to represent Britain, and I’m so thrilled that it brings you joy as well. We are proud of you too, for staying true to your kind heart even when things get tough.

Be kind to yourself, Sybil, and know that we’re always here for you.

With all my love, Lady Penelope

Parker’s Response:

‘Ello there, Miss Sybil,

I ‘eard you ‘ad quite the tough day, eh? Oh dear, I’m so sorry ‘bout all that fuss. Emotional regulation, I reckon, is no easy thing, especially when you’re feelin' ignored or upset. But, y’see, Miss, that don’t make you a 4-year-old—far from it. We all lose our temper from time to time. Why, I’ve done so meself a few times, though I’m not likely to admit it to her Ladyship, mind you. She keeps me in line, she does.

Now, I know when things get a bit too much, it’s easy to shout or feel like the whole world’s against you. But next time, maybe take a deep breath, count to ten, or think about somethin' that makes you smile—like them Christmas Moments, eh? Quite proud of that meself, I must say. But you know what, Miss Sybil? What’s more important than any ol’ Christmas show is lookin’ after you.

Right-o then, you just take it easy, Miss, and know we’re rootin' for you, always.

Yours sincerely, Parker

Monday, 16 September 2024

A Letter To Lady Penelope & Parker - Tubi TV & Inside Out 2

Dear Lady Penelope & Parker,

I just found out that Thunderbirds isn’t going to return to Talking Pictures TV in October, but instead it’s going to do just that this month! Yay! Can you believe it? Because my Sky Box is now 5 years old, I’m going to record the Thunderbirds so I don’t feel left out. Still, that Tubi advert on the TV really annoys me to the core, but some of the gentler stuff on Tubi really catches my eye, including Transformers Armada, A Town Called Panic, Digimon Adventure Tri, The Lost Worlds Of Gerry Anderson, My Little Pony: A Charming Birthday, Strange Hill High and of course, Thunderbirds, who I found out a few days ago was on Tubi.

I guess none of you two are familiar with the whole streaming concept, right? Well let me tell you: Inside Out 2 is premiering on Disney+ on the 25th of September this month. It introduces four new emotions, plus there’s Bloofy, a sort of Nick Jr character ripoff who is a dog with a talking pouch. In my mind, I bet Riley’s dad would act the same as Uncle Stripe in the Bluey episode ‘The Sign’ throughout the entire film - going wild, catching flowers meant for brides to be, or even in this film joining in with Riley’s hockey game for a bit of amusement. That’s what you get when you have a drunk dad or uncle. Unfortunately, due to the noisy programmes that my Grandma watches, I can’t seem to join you, but I can record you on my mum’s Sky Box! See you both sometime soon.

Love,

Sybil.

Furaha & Orko's Response To My Letter From My Hormonal Era

Dear Sybil,

Oh, what a delightful letter to receive! I’m Furaha, and I’m so happy to hear about your adventurous day and your wonderful encounter with S. It sounds like you had quite the eventful trip to Home Bargains, and it’s great that you were able to help with the car!

Orko here! The story of the car rolling back reminds me of one of my magical mishaps—though thankfully, no one had to roll anything back in my case! It's wonderful to hear how you not only helped but also made some new friends. S sounds like a truly special person, and I bet she does enjoy all the fun things you mentioned. Teletubbies and Bluey are such cheerful shows!

As for Pooh’s Heffalump Movie and Tarzan II, I think they both have their own unique charm! Pooh’s Heffalump Movie is full of sweet songs and adorable characters, while Tarzan II has its own adventurous spirit. They might be quite different, but they both have a way of capturing hearts with their stories.

It sounds like you have a great sense of fun and a big heart, just like us! We would love to meet S too—she sounds like someone who could join us on many wonderful adventures!

Sending you lots of love and warm hugs,

Furaha & Orko

Friday, 13 September 2024

Anything Can Happen In...

Anything can happen in the next half hour!

And in that hour, I'll tell you about my trip out with my support worker. I had a lot of stuff going on on my Instagram feed while I was waiting in the ASDA car park for my treats: Gerry Anderson, Truffle Shuffle AND Bluey all responded to my words of wisdom! With Brains of course, the mind speaks for itself when clever people don't have words to express themselves. That's what his voice, David Graham (who I found out was the voice of Grandpa Pig) said.

Once we got to the seaside town, we talked about my new interests with Gerry Anderson. We talked about Thunderbirds, Joe 90 and Stingray, and I showed my support worker my 'Fur Blanket' and 'The Work Desk' stories. While there, I played a new game I invented called 'Anything Can Happen In The Next Half Hour', where I begin the famous Stingray catchphrase and other players have to fill it in. Examples are:

"Anything can happen when you believe in fairies!"

"Anything can happen when Dracula appears..."

"Anything can happen when the balloons you blew up for a party took you away for a fly!"

When we went out for a hot chocolate, I had second thoughts about Parker. Outside his long-suffering personality, does he even care softly for me like he's my grandpa? Well, my granddad died a few years ago, and putting Parker in this role would help me cope with his passing. He cares in this story, so he and his ladyship are still the most caring puppets ever made. I thought about the introductions he made on the Channel 5 VHS releases of Gerry Anderson's series and thought, "He must really stand out from the crowd, the old bloke." I then thought about those Fab adverts with Lady Penelope and Parker....and then, I thought about Lady Penelope caring for me in the jungle, while we are wearing nothing at all. Doesn't that sound exciting? Life is such a grand adventure.

Sure we had a liner in today, but I think it was called 'Vicious Vikings' or some stuff like that, I dunno. Anyway, once I got back, I helped Mum put the new TV up. It was heavy work, and I thought about the time Roo saved Tigger from an avalanche in that god-awful Tigger Movie, then I thought about Pooh and his friends moving boulders from the entrance to the cave, like Aladar and his friends did when they moved the boulders to find the Nesting Grounds when they wandered through the cave in Dinosaur. Even hard work can be put into the back of a honey lover! It was like I was forced into slavery for 100 years, so you know what?

I didn't, moan, once! Hooray! But through all that, I'm still going to use Parker to remember my long-forgotten Grandfather, who passed away when I was only a child. I was too young to understand it then. Now, I do. Granddad, I'm using my new friend Parker to remember you - through his clumsy ways and exceptional comic relief, I see you through his eyes, yet I see a sister through Penelope's.

Granddad may be gone, but through Parker, he lives on.

Gerry Anderson's Joe 90 (1968) - HD Opening Titles

"Mum! Dad! Bingo! Bluey!"
This opening to a Gerry Anderson show reminded me so much of the Bluey theme song that I just had to put it on my blog.

School Life

In the secondary school near where you or I live, there is a secret classroom. One with soundproof walls and brightly coloured paintings, and not a single piece of maths homework in sight. It is located behind a green door which can only be seen by those lucky enough to see it. It is where Furaha and her friends Orko, Optimus and Baby Marvin live.


Once they get up every weekday morning just before the pupils arrive at school for their lessons, Optimus leads them in some simple, gentle stretching to start the morning. Often, they would have to wash because sleeping through the night would mean they would smell bad. Baby Marvin was trying very hard to do his stretching, but always fell over. Luckily, Furaha and Orko were always on hand or paw to catch him.


When the pupils finally are in school, Optimus leads Furaha and her friends in some painting, which they enjoyed so much. Furaha would paint with her paws. SPLAT! SMUCK! SPLASH! She would get a bit messy and covered in paint, but it was worth it. Orko preferred to paint with a brush, while Baby Marvin did the same as Furaha, causing him to get very, very messy indeed. So messy are Baby Marvin and Furaha in fact, that Optimus needed to give them a good bath during breaktime with water in the school tank and bubbles from the washing up liquid in the staffroom.


In the middle of the day, they would spend the day doing some quiet activities, such as cuddling and hugging. They would sit on soft, comfy pillows and hug some teddies, while Optimus leads them in a breathing exercise. Then he would come and cuddle the three friends softly, sharing in love and hugs together, without disruption from the school bell due to the soundproof walls. He would often play with them, chasing them around their classroom home.


Next it was time for lunch. Orko magicked up some lunch for Furaha, Baby Marvin and himself to eat. Furaha had two jam sandwiches, a banana, a chocolate chip cookie and a carton of orange juice. Orko had a large plate of pizza and a cup of orangeade, and Baby Marvin had finger cheese sandwiches, a glass of milk and half a chocolate bar. Optimus, as always, was very careful. He was on an Energon diet. For the rest of the lunch break, the friends would sit around playing board games until the bell rang again.


It was time for the final lesson of the day - mindfulness. Optimus lead the friends in some meditation and deep breathing exercises, followed by some aromatherapy and some body scanning. Then, each of the friends would tell their worries to Optimus, which he would tell them how to resolve with great ease. Yes, Optimus was a wise and truthful teacher, and always knew everything about wellbeing and wonders of people everywhere.


When all the pupils have left for the day, Furaha, Orko and Optimus go out of the door to explore and look around the classrooms. And my, what a grand sight it was. The library was filled with books and reading posters to indulge in some interesting reads, though Furaha and Baby Marvin didn’t like the scary stories muchly. The science lab was filled with liquids which Furaha and her friends could concoct as experiments of their own, though Baby Marvin stayed back because the chemicals in the liquid are too dangerous. The music room allowed them to play all different types of music, and the art room meant they could make the room as messy as it could possibly be, with colourful paints and pens and potato slices.


The best room to play in is the staffroom, because playing in their meant lots of biscuits, mugs of hot cocoa and an opportunity to relax, laugh and talk together. It was the room where friends become friends, and friends become family. It’s a room where everyone can be in complete harmony with each other.


And when the sun finally set, the friends made their way back to bed, tired out from a long day of school living. Snug and safe in their bed, Furaha, Orko and Baby Marvin are cradled in Optimus’ arms, hoping that another day will bring more life lessons each time.


For at school, lessons aren’t just about numbers or words or art, it’s about the values we learn as time goes on, and we still do to this day.


May these wonderful values be of importance to you for the rest of your life.

Our Friends Twizzle & Torchy

Back in 1954, Lady Penelope, Parker, Scarlet, Magenta, Oink and Titan were just kids playing happy little games together in Lady Penelope’s garden near her mansion. Before they got their own shows, two such shows were the first puppet shows to be made by Gerry Anderson: Torchy and Twizzle. This such story focuses on these kids one time, when they first met Torchy and Twizzle.


On that day, the sun was shining, the birds were singing, and Penelope was playing croquet in the garden. Once she hit the ball with the croquet bat, it went through the arch-like thingy and she said, “Mmmmmm-hmmmm, this is exactly why I win all the time.” “I must say, milady, you’re ever so clever when it comes to croquet.” Penelope gave a well earned nod, but Titan was shaking his head in the background. “Not fair!” he shouted out of jealousy, “I want to play kings and queens!” “But we always play that game,” said Penelope, “And you always get to be king.” “And everytime you get to be king, you just make a muddy mess and then put the blame on Penelope,” said Scarlet. “Pah!” said Titan, “Who cares if these fools play such a boring game, kings and queens is much better.”


Then, out of the blue… “Tooorch-eeeeeeeeeeeeee!!” Everyone looked around in astonishment. “What the hell was that noise?” asked Magenta. “Ah how should I know it’s just an alien spacecraft,” said Titan. Oink looked scared and went to hide behind Penelope’s legs just as the noise started up again: “Tooooorch-eeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!” A huge spotlight shone down from out of the sky, and then, in fizzed two peculiar looking characters: Twizzle and Torchy.


Hello, Twizzle.


“Hello!”


Hello, Torchy.


“Ah, hello there!”


Everyone was in shock at the new visitors, who silently watched with their jaws gaped open as they introduced themselves. “I’m Twizzle, and this is Torchy. Nice to meet all of you.” Penelope shyly had the nerve to introduce herself. “Okay, I’m Penelope, and these are Parker, Scarlet, Magenta, Titan and Oink. Won’t you care to join us for a game of croquet?” “Anyone can play!” said Twizzle, “Watch us!”


Penelope had to explain the rules of the game first, so that Twizzle won’t forget. Then, with an almighty swing, Twizzle knocked the ball. The ball bounced and ricocheted off different trees. “This isn’t golf!” shouted Penelope, ducking as the ball shot past her, but then - BONG! The ball hit Titan on the head, causing him to fall to the ground. He was seeing stars.


“Well done, Twizzle, you finally took a stand to the ‘Game Hogger’ here.” said Scarlet, shaking hands with Twizzle. “Help…me…” coughed Titan, now with a big bump on his head.


“My go!” said Torchy, and he took the hammer to aim. Once he hit the ball, it too bounced around the place, but this time it was so extreme that it didn’t hit Titan this time. It shot past Scarlet and Parker, and then…


BOINK!


Back inside the mansion, one of Penelope’s servants had to tend to Oink and Titan so that they felt better. “Mother, we didn’t injure them this time, it was Twizzle and Torchy.” “Those two mischief makers,” said Penelope’s annoyed mother, “Listen, Penny, I’ll call their parents to come and collect them. You and your friends stay put.”


When their parents did come, Twizzle and Torchy were scolded and spanked ten times by their parents. With sore red bottoms they trudged all the way back home again. Penelope and her friends laughed and laughed until they couldn’t stand up.


“You know,” said Penelope, “I think good friends are the ones I love most. But as for Twizzle and Torchy? Well, we won’t be seeing any more of them again!”