... WISH EVERYONE A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!
(I'm doing it now just in case I'm too plastered to do it later!!!)
LILY & ROSE
Here are some photos of Lily & Rose. There are a few from the first time we saw them when they were just 4 weeks old. They would fit on your hand at this age and didn't look much like westies!
Thursday, 31 December 2009
CUPCAKES
In the end, I decided to make an Italian meringue to swirl on the top of last nights cakes. Actually, to be honest, I didn't think much of the cream cheese sponges, so made another batch using a lemon drizzle cake type recipe and filling the centres with lemon curd. The Italian meringue works because essentially the egg whites are cooked into the sugar and water so the cakes don't need to be put back into the oven to set the meringue. They were finished with a sprinkling of granulated sugar which I had coloured lemon yellow. Obviously Charles and I have had to try them out and they are really good - the sweetness of the topping balances the sharpness of the lemon in the sponge nicely.
I'm keeping an eye on the weather today. Helen and Bill are driving up from Yorkshire and we are having a fair few hefty snow showers. The roads are okay now, but won't be too clever if the temperature drops later.
We will probably have our usual 'at home' New Years Eve tonight, although a stroll down to the pub may well appeal if the weather holds off. It always used to be fancy dress time in the New Inn, although having changed hands recently, this tradition may well have gone. Of course there was the year when it was decided to cancel fancy dress, but no one told Dennis (from the Subawu gawage) and he flounced into the pub wearing a lovely pink tutu much to everyones' glee!!
I'm keeping an eye on the weather today. Helen and Bill are driving up from Yorkshire and we are having a fair few hefty snow showers. The roads are okay now, but won't be too clever if the temperature drops later.
We will probably have our usual 'at home' New Years Eve tonight, although a stroll down to the pub may well appeal if the weather holds off. It always used to be fancy dress time in the New Inn, although having changed hands recently, this tradition may well have gone. Of course there was the year when it was decided to cancel fancy dress, but no one told Dennis (from the Subawu gawage) and he flounced into the pub wearing a lovely pink tutu much to everyones' glee!!
Wednesday, 30 December 2009
WHERE'S THE SOUNDTRACK GONE?
Much to our distress, the soundtrack to the Christmas video has been blocked!
Charles will try to sort it out tomorrow, even if it means substituting it for something else - which will be a shame because he's edited the film to fit the original choice.
(He'll probably not be doing it until he's been to the DVLA though - he and James never DID get there today, but they very much enjoyed Sherlock Holmes!!
Right, the puppies are pretty much settled, so I'm off to watch telly for a while. (Actually, I feel so tired tonight, it'll probably be a case of nodding off in front of it.)
Charles will try to sort it out tomorrow, even if it means substituting it for something else - which will be a shame because he's edited the film to fit the original choice.
(He'll probably not be doing it until he's been to the DVLA though - he and James never DID get there today, but they very much enjoyed Sherlock Holmes!!
Right, the puppies are pretty much settled, so I'm off to watch telly for a while. (Actually, I feel so tired tonight, it'll probably be a case of nodding off in front of it.)
THANK YOU AIMEE!
Thank you for your kind words about the cupcakes! I'm glad they went down well at Croftway.
I've just made a batch with a lemon and cream cheese sponge, and have filled them with lemon curd, but haven't decided on a topping yet. Possibly lemon buttercream or maybe tiny pavlovas to make them a bit like lemon meringue.
I've just made a batch with a lemon and cream cheese sponge, and have filled them with lemon curd, but haven't decided on a topping yet. Possibly lemon buttercream or maybe tiny pavlovas to make them a bit like lemon meringue.
THAT LAST POST...
... ended a trifle abruptly, as you probably noticed. Just as I'd written about how obligingly good the pups had been, Rose started attacking my ankles and wanting some attention - so clearly it was MY turn to be obliging!
By this time in the evening, the pups are usually starting to get ready for bed, but I have a feeling that it may be a late night tonight as they have had lots of sleeps during the day. My 'treat' when they have settled for the night will be to go and watch the recording of Waterloo Road - sad but true!!!
Rose is currently lying on the floor demolishing a chewy bone and Lily is in her favourite place - snuggled up with Charles! She gets herself wedged between his side and the arm of the chair and almost sits upright and she would happily sit there all day if she got the chance. It really doesn't matter how excited or hyper-active she is being, as soon as he picks her up and sits in the chair with her she is as good as gold!
By this time in the evening, the pups are usually starting to get ready for bed, but I have a feeling that it may be a late night tonight as they have had lots of sleeps during the day. My 'treat' when they have settled for the night will be to go and watch the recording of Waterloo Road - sad but true!!!
Rose is currently lying on the floor demolishing a chewy bone and Lily is in her favourite place - snuggled up with Charles! She gets herself wedged between his side and the arm of the chair and almost sits upright and she would happily sit there all day if she got the chance. It really doesn't matter how excited or hyper-active she is being, as soon as he picks her up and sits in the chair with her she is as good as gold!
A LONG DAY!
It's been long because it's been busy!
I went to the hairdressers this morning and met James after for a coffee and sandwich in Costa. It's great when the hairdresser does your hair because you don't need to worry about it for the best part of a week! One less thing to think about then!
When I got home, Charles and James went off to Newcastle, supposedly to transfer the new registration number to James's car at the DVLA, but getting a little sidetracked and ending up at the cinema watching Sherlock Holmes!!!
I've spent the afternoon in the kitchen (no change there then!) and the puppies have very obligingly dozed in their room for most of the time.
I went to the hairdressers this morning and met James after for a coffee and sandwich in Costa. It's great when the hairdresser does your hair because you don't need to worry about it for the best part of a week! One less thing to think about then!
When I got home, Charles and James went off to Newcastle, supposedly to transfer the new registration number to James's car at the DVLA, but getting a little sidetracked and ending up at the cinema watching Sherlock Holmes!!!
I've spent the afternoon in the kitchen (no change there then!) and the puppies have very obligingly dozed in their room for most of the time.
Tuesday, 29 December 2009
THANK YOU MR POTATO HEAD!!
The video is lovely! It really made me realise how much the puppies have grown in the last few months.
Lily and Rose had a great day yesterday, when we had a houseful of people and, most importantly, the puppies big Samoyed 'cousin' - Kai. Admittedly there was an initial barking frenzy, but things soon calmed down and the pups thoroughly enjoyed tormenting poor old Kai. It's a good job he's such a placid dog, because he just put up with all their antics, although according to my brother, he was absolutely shattered on the way home! Then again, so were our two! They had no sleep to speak of during the day and with all the excitement they were ready for bed at about 7.30!!!
Anyway, we were both really proud of them and the way they have coped with all the changes to routine and the many visitors that we have had during the past few days. I can't wait to be able to spend some real time with them again. It seems as if the last week has been a blur of activity and the pups have just been fitted in when I've had a spare moment.
I did indeed go on a 'jolly' this morning, with my son. We went to town, to find the missing Fat Face slipper and to change his rather unusual All Saints cardigan for something a little more conventional. (The problem with the cardigan was that it sort of buttoned up diagonally across the chest and looked weird when it was unfastened!) In the event, he managed to get a jumper AND a hooded top for the same price, so he was well pleased.
I also came back with goodies - a fab coat that I can't begin to describe but is very unusual and funky, a longish dress that looks like All Saints but isn't and was therefore about a third of the price, some leggings, a cardigan and a baggy shirt!! Not a bad morning's shopping.
Lily and Rose had a great day yesterday, when we had a houseful of people and, most importantly, the puppies big Samoyed 'cousin' - Kai. Admittedly there was an initial barking frenzy, but things soon calmed down and the pups thoroughly enjoyed tormenting poor old Kai. It's a good job he's such a placid dog, because he just put up with all their antics, although according to my brother, he was absolutely shattered on the way home! Then again, so were our two! They had no sleep to speak of during the day and with all the excitement they were ready for bed at about 7.30!!!
Anyway, we were both really proud of them and the way they have coped with all the changes to routine and the many visitors that we have had during the past few days. I can't wait to be able to spend some real time with them again. It seems as if the last week has been a blur of activity and the pups have just been fitted in when I've had a spare moment.
I did indeed go on a 'jolly' this morning, with my son. We went to town, to find the missing Fat Face slipper and to change his rather unusual All Saints cardigan for something a little more conventional. (The problem with the cardigan was that it sort of buttoned up diagonally across the chest and looked weird when it was unfastened!) In the event, he managed to get a jumper AND a hooded top for the same price, so he was well pleased.
I also came back with goodies - a fab coat that I can't begin to describe but is very unusual and funky, a longish dress that looks like All Saints but isn't and was therefore about a third of the price, some leggings, a cardigan and a baggy shirt!! Not a bad morning's shopping.
THE CHRISTMAS VIDEO!
Regular readers will have seen that there have been questions asked about the non appearance of a Christmas video...
Well here it is! Sue went of on a bit of a jolly this morning to Newcastle with James and left me back at the ranch with the girls and a plea to sort out a video to put up on the blog to keep Richard quiet for a few days!
There are a few cameo roles in the film and there could only be one bit of music given the sort of weather we've had up here for the last couple of weeks!
Anyway, Sue says that she'll get back to some serious blogging (and puppy cuddling) once the prep and cooking duties are sorted! She does seem to have been on prep and cooking duties for far too many days now - but the results have been glorious and well received by those fortunate enough to be within grabbing distance of the amazing array of delectable treats!
We've had lots of visitors recently and it's been lovely to see everyone. I think we've got another clear day before Helen and Bill return for New Year! I think another trip to Marabini's might be on the cards for Thursday before Rachel and James join the four (six if you include Lily & Rose) of us oldies but goldies for roast pork on New Years Day!
That's All Folks!
Signing out - Mr Potato Head
xx
Well here it is! Sue went of on a bit of a jolly this morning to Newcastle with James and left me back at the ranch with the girls and a plea to sort out a video to put up on the blog to keep Richard quiet for a few days!
There are a few cameo roles in the film and there could only be one bit of music given the sort of weather we've had up here for the last couple of weeks!
Anyway, Sue says that she'll get back to some serious blogging (and puppy cuddling) once the prep and cooking duties are sorted! She does seem to have been on prep and cooking duties for far too many days now - but the results have been glorious and well received by those fortunate enough to be within grabbing distance of the amazing array of delectable treats!
We've had lots of visitors recently and it's been lovely to see everyone. I think we've got another clear day before Helen and Bill return for New Year! I think another trip to Marabini's might be on the cards for Thursday before Rachel and James join the four (six if you include Lily & Rose) of us oldies but goldies for roast pork on New Years Day!
That's All Folks!
Signing out - Mr Potato Head
xx
Saturday, 26 December 2009
HELLO AGAIN!!
I'm back!
Where do I start?
Yes, we had a really lovely Christmas Day - and today has been pretty good too!
There were just the four of us yesterday and we spent the time in a frenzy of present giving and receiving during the morning, with James's birthday just before lunch.
Lunch was on the table at 1.15 and everyone told me it was lovely, although to be honest I couldn't taste a thing because of this flaming cold. In fact I feel a bit cheated and would really like to do it all again. (Not the cooking, just the eating!)
The cold is hanging on and has left me with a nasty cough - it's following exactly the pattern of James's, I'm just about four days behind him. Thank you so much for sharing, Jim!
The afternoon was the usual slump in front of the telly, with a bit of dozing thrown in. And after birthday tea we all settled down to watch one of my favourite presents; the Take That Circus DVD. I'm delighted to say that everyone enjoyed it almost as much as Helen and I did when we went to see them at the Stadium of Light in the summer and James even admitted that TT are his 'guilty pleasure!!!' - mind you he'd had a bit to drink by then!
Today has been an opportunity for me to begin preparing for our visitors, three of whom arrive tomorrow and the rest come on Monday, making a total of 14 in all, so I'm going into cooking overdrive! I hope that the shops are open tomorrow because I am in dire need of salad veg and fresh bread and will be sending Charles out with a list in the morning.
Talking of cooking, whoever would have thought that you could buy a cookery book for dogs! c/o the staff at Charles's school - what an amazing present, I can't wait to try out some of the recipes! Lily and Rose are currently enjoying the turkey leftovers with some boiled rice and turkey stock, but the ideas in the book will give them a much more interesting diet! Thank you - and also for the novels and cupcake cases!!!
Actually, we have a little problem with the rather posh White House kennel we gave them for Christmas. (I will get Charles to video it because you will be impressed!) But he'll have to do it quickly otherwise there may not be a house/kennel left at all as clearly it tastes very nice, and both puppies are chewing at it whenever they get the chance. It's already got great chunks out of it, so I think we may have to take it away from them until I've got some more of that Chew Stop spray, which really DOES work actually.
The puppies had a great day yesterday (and today as well) and have been spoiled with lots of lovely presents and treats. They're going to love the next couple of days, although I'm not entirely sure what they'll make of their big samoyed cousin!!
So. tomorrow will be another busy day, and if I don't get much time on the blog, I'm sure you'll understand why. Normal service will resume as soon as this festive stuff is out of the way!!!
Where do I start?
Yes, we had a really lovely Christmas Day - and today has been pretty good too!
There were just the four of us yesterday and we spent the time in a frenzy of present giving and receiving during the morning, with James's birthday just before lunch.
Lunch was on the table at 1.15 and everyone told me it was lovely, although to be honest I couldn't taste a thing because of this flaming cold. In fact I feel a bit cheated and would really like to do it all again. (Not the cooking, just the eating!)
The cold is hanging on and has left me with a nasty cough - it's following exactly the pattern of James's, I'm just about four days behind him. Thank you so much for sharing, Jim!
The afternoon was the usual slump in front of the telly, with a bit of dozing thrown in. And after birthday tea we all settled down to watch one of my favourite presents; the Take That Circus DVD. I'm delighted to say that everyone enjoyed it almost as much as Helen and I did when we went to see them at the Stadium of Light in the summer and James even admitted that TT are his 'guilty pleasure!!!' - mind you he'd had a bit to drink by then!
Today has been an opportunity for me to begin preparing for our visitors, three of whom arrive tomorrow and the rest come on Monday, making a total of 14 in all, so I'm going into cooking overdrive! I hope that the shops are open tomorrow because I am in dire need of salad veg and fresh bread and will be sending Charles out with a list in the morning.
Talking of cooking, whoever would have thought that you could buy a cookery book for dogs! c/o the staff at Charles's school - what an amazing present, I can't wait to try out some of the recipes! Lily and Rose are currently enjoying the turkey leftovers with some boiled rice and turkey stock, but the ideas in the book will give them a much more interesting diet! Thank you - and also for the novels and cupcake cases!!!
Actually, we have a little problem with the rather posh White House kennel we gave them for Christmas. (I will get Charles to video it because you will be impressed!) But he'll have to do it quickly otherwise there may not be a house/kennel left at all as clearly it tastes very nice, and both puppies are chewing at it whenever they get the chance. It's already got great chunks out of it, so I think we may have to take it away from them until I've got some more of that Chew Stop spray, which really DOES work actually.
The puppies had a great day yesterday (and today as well) and have been spoiled with lots of lovely presents and treats. They're going to love the next couple of days, although I'm not entirely sure what they'll make of their big samoyed cousin!!
So. tomorrow will be another busy day, and if I don't get much time on the blog, I'm sure you'll understand why. Normal service will resume as soon as this festive stuff is out of the way!!!
Thursday, 24 December 2009
ALMOST CHRISTMAS DAY!
Just quarter of an hour to go!
James has come home - and woken the puppies up! I think they thought they were dreaming when he appeared, they're not used to seeing him at this time of night.
The pups seem to be making a bit of a protest tonight. Usually, when I tell them it's bedtime they trot happily into the elephant crate and settle down, but last night when they were rudely awoken by party revellers outside they weren't able to settle for ages and certainly didn't want to go back to sleep in the crate, so they slept in their little baskets and were actually fine for the rest of the night. But I fully expected them to return to their usual behaviour tonight, so was surprised to find that they chose NOT to sleep in the crate again.
At the moment they are trying out different sleeping places. Is it going to be the basket, or a mat or the blanket? Lily wants to snuggle up with Rose, but Rose wants to be left alone! However, I'm sure it won't be long before they give in to tiredness and settle back down again.
Talking about giving in to tiredness - I think I'll be heading to bed shortly - it's going to be a busy day tomorrow!
James has come home - and woken the puppies up! I think they thought they were dreaming when he appeared, they're not used to seeing him at this time of night.
The pups seem to be making a bit of a protest tonight. Usually, when I tell them it's bedtime they trot happily into the elephant crate and settle down, but last night when they were rudely awoken by party revellers outside they weren't able to settle for ages and certainly didn't want to go back to sleep in the crate, so they slept in their little baskets and were actually fine for the rest of the night. But I fully expected them to return to their usual behaviour tonight, so was surprised to find that they chose NOT to sleep in the crate again.
At the moment they are trying out different sleeping places. Is it going to be the basket, or a mat or the blanket? Lily wants to snuggle up with Rose, but Rose wants to be left alone! However, I'm sure it won't be long before they give in to tiredness and settle back down again.
Talking about giving in to tiredness - I think I'll be heading to bed shortly - it's going to be a busy day tomorrow!
IF YOU'RE FEELING...
... a little bit stressed and unfestive, watch The Grumpy Guide to Christmas later this evening. It was screened last night and I watched it then, but they're showing it again tonight and it is certainly entertaining viewing. And although I myself do love Christmas - there are some aspects of the programme that I definitely can identify with.
IT HAS TO BE SAID...
... that Marabini's IS in fact better in all respects than our much loved Gianni's. We've had a fab meal this evening (in fact I'm now so stuffed I may not be able to eat anything tomorrow!) the staff were attentive without being obtrusive, we were given a table next to the heater because I was cold when we arrived, the food was superb and the ambiance was warm and friendly. Now MOST of this could be said about Gianni's, but the decor there is tired and dated, it's quite claustrophobic and there's no room between tables, so you end up listening in to other peoples' conversations (and vice versa of course) and, although the food is lovely, it hasn't quite got the refined edge that Marabini's does.
So, all in all I have to say it was a good choice James. Well done! (Charles says we will have to take Helen and Bill there next week.)
I've just watched Carols from Kings, so now feel very festive and Christmassy. Everything is done and we are just about to sit down with glasses of mulled wine (or I might go for Tia Maria)
So, all in all I have to say it was a good choice James. Well done! (Charles says we will have to take Helen and Bill there next week.)
I've just watched Carols from Kings, so now feel very festive and Christmassy. Everything is done and we are just about to sit down with glasses of mulled wine (or I might go for Tia Maria)
THE PUPPIES HAVE COATS!
Yes, we ordered little quilted jackets for them and they arrived this morning. They're a really clever design, just step in and zip up - very easy. The pups have already tried them on and seem to approve of them. Personally I would have put them away in their Christmas stockings, but Charles obviously couldn't wait!
Charles is especially pleased with them because he says they match MY blue quilted jacket that he bought me (the one that I HATE!) He mentioned it this morning, but I chose to ignore him because I knew that what he was really meaning was, 'You'll have to wear yours now and you'll all match!' He has, however, just broached the subject again and, as I didn't have any obvious distractions that might have prevented me hearing him I had to reluctantly agree.
Charles is especially pleased with them because he says they match MY blue quilted jacket that he bought me (the one that I HATE!) He mentioned it this morning, but I chose to ignore him because I knew that what he was really meaning was, 'You'll have to wear yours now and you'll all match!' He has, however, just broached the subject again and, as I didn't have any obvious distractions that might have prevented me hearing him I had to reluctantly agree.
CHRISTMAS EVE
Yes, it IS actually Christmas Eve - albeit very early as it's only 1 am. Why am I writing the blog at this hour? Well, that would be because some party revellers passed our house on their way home very noisily about an hour ago and the puppies woke in a frenzy of panic and anxiety. They absolutely do NOT want to be awake, and are really grumpy (as am I to be frank) but don't seem to be able to settle again just yet, so I thought I'd do a bit of blogging while I keep an eye on them. I'm not making a fuss of them because I don't want them to think that its fun to be awake in the middle of the night. (Clearly Charles doesn't think its any fun either, as he hasn't put in an appearance at all!)
Wednesday, 23 December 2009
FORGET TO MENTION...
... that the puppies' cousin Kai, a rather splendid Samoyed, will be coming for the day on Monday. (Not on his own, of course, but with my brother and his family.
This will be interesting!!
Kai has visited us before - but that was when there were no pesky little puppies! He had a lovely time, being the centre of attention and decided I was his new best friend and followed me everywhere! I hope he doesn't have too much of a rude surprise when he meets our little darlings - cos one things for certain, they won't want HIM to have all the fuss!!!
This will be interesting!!
Kai has visited us before - but that was when there were no pesky little puppies! He had a lovely time, being the centre of attention and decided I was his new best friend and followed me everywhere! I hope he doesn't have too much of a rude surprise when he meets our little darlings - cos one things for certain, they won't want HIM to have all the fuss!!!
IT'S NEARLY HERE!!
I'm actually quite excited now!
All the hard work is done and Christmas Eve should be a fairly relaxed day, I've got a hair appointment at 8.30, so Charles is coming down to Morpeth with me and we'll probably do some last minute bits and pieces - you know the stuff you don't REALLY need - but would just be nice!
Then we'll come home, where I will do my usual magic with the turkey giblets! And, no doubt, there will be other culinary tasks to see to.
And then we'll be going back to Morpeth where we're meeting James for a meal. I'm looking forward to that - I think I'll feel as if Christmas has really started.
We'll be coming home after we've eaten and James will arrive at some point before midnight! (I've warned him that Santa will not come if he's not in at a decent time!!)
We found out yesterday that we're going to be having my family on Sunday and Monday, so I'm already mentally moving on from the Christmas Dinner to the meals we will be having when they're here! Then Helen and Bill are coming back again for New Year!! Is there no end to these festivities.
The thing is, I really look forward to all the food and, true to form, I make enough to feed a small country, but by about Tuesday next week I will probably be dying for something simple like beans on toast or a cheese sandwich!!!
All the hard work is done and Christmas Eve should be a fairly relaxed day, I've got a hair appointment at 8.30, so Charles is coming down to Morpeth with me and we'll probably do some last minute bits and pieces - you know the stuff you don't REALLY need - but would just be nice!
Then we'll come home, where I will do my usual magic with the turkey giblets! And, no doubt, there will be other culinary tasks to see to.
And then we'll be going back to Morpeth where we're meeting James for a meal. I'm looking forward to that - I think I'll feel as if Christmas has really started.
We'll be coming home after we've eaten and James will arrive at some point before midnight! (I've warned him that Santa will not come if he's not in at a decent time!!)
We found out yesterday that we're going to be having my family on Sunday and Monday, so I'm already mentally moving on from the Christmas Dinner to the meals we will be having when they're here! Then Helen and Bill are coming back again for New Year!! Is there no end to these festivities.
The thing is, I really look forward to all the food and, true to form, I make enough to feed a small country, but by about Tuesday next week I will probably be dying for something simple like beans on toast or a cheese sandwich!!!
THE TESCO DELIVERY...
... was on time and everything present and correct...
...the only mistake was MINE! This year's equivalent of the solitary sprout that was delivered last year, was THE SINGLE BANANA! Guess who'd not noticed that they were LOOSE bananas and not a pack! Oh well, we didn't want bannoffi pie anyway.
However, the other mistake that I made this year was NOT TO ORDER ANY SPROUTS AT ALL! How did I forget them after the sprout debacle last year?
Anyway, all is not lost, as Charles is, as we speak, in Newcastle buying sprouts and other things like, hopefully, shoes for ME in the Kurt Geiger sale. James rang earlier to give us a heads up on this: his girlfriend, the lovely Kate, does some part time work at KG and had returned home yesterday with a couple of pairs of very much reduced shoes, so knowing that Charles was going into town anyway, James suggested that it would be a nice idea if he went and bought a pair (or two) for me. Once Charles knew how greatly reduced they were he was out of the door in a flash!!!! (Actually, he did have a sneaky peek at their website before he went and was dismayed to discover that the gorgeous shoe boots that I had for my retirement party had been reduced to about a fifth of their original price!!)
By the way, Charles hasn't JUST gone for sprouts and shoes, there are a number of other items on his list, but I can't mention these just yet!
...the only mistake was MINE! This year's equivalent of the solitary sprout that was delivered last year, was THE SINGLE BANANA! Guess who'd not noticed that they were LOOSE bananas and not a pack! Oh well, we didn't want bannoffi pie anyway.
However, the other mistake that I made this year was NOT TO ORDER ANY SPROUTS AT ALL! How did I forget them after the sprout debacle last year?
Anyway, all is not lost, as Charles is, as we speak, in Newcastle buying sprouts and other things like, hopefully, shoes for ME in the Kurt Geiger sale. James rang earlier to give us a heads up on this: his girlfriend, the lovely Kate, does some part time work at KG and had returned home yesterday with a couple of pairs of very much reduced shoes, so knowing that Charles was going into town anyway, James suggested that it would be a nice idea if he went and bought a pair (or two) for me. Once Charles knew how greatly reduced they were he was out of the door in a flash!!!! (Actually, he did have a sneaky peek at their website before he went and was dismayed to discover that the gorgeous shoe boots that I had for my retirement party had been reduced to about a fifth of their original price!!)
By the way, Charles hasn't JUST gone for sprouts and shoes, there are a number of other items on his list, but I can't mention these just yet!
Tuesday, 22 December 2009
NOT MUCH OF A THAW THEN
The snow that was getting away quite nicely during the day yesterday, has now been covered by a fresh fall and it's all frozen solid again.
True, it does look very Christmassy, but it's getting to be a bit of a nuisance now. The road onto Cheviot Lodge is like a skating rink, as is the road through the village. So, we've had enough now thank you very much!
Today we should be getting the big Tesco delivery. Ideally at this time I would quite like Charles to be out of the house, because he will just stand over it muttering things like, 'What do we need THIS for? When are we going to eat all this? and Where is it going to go?'
The latter is a question I am very quietly asking myself at the moment, not that I would let on to Charles, but I am having a little panic about it now!
So, where can I send him between 3.00 and 5.00 this afternoon, I wonder?
True, it does look very Christmassy, but it's getting to be a bit of a nuisance now. The road onto Cheviot Lodge is like a skating rink, as is the road through the village. So, we've had enough now thank you very much!
Today we should be getting the big Tesco delivery. Ideally at this time I would quite like Charles to be out of the house, because he will just stand over it muttering things like, 'What do we need THIS for? When are we going to eat all this? and Where is it going to go?'
The latter is a question I am very quietly asking myself at the moment, not that I would let on to Charles, but I am having a little panic about it now!
So, where can I send him between 3.00 and 5.00 this afternoon, I wonder?
FEELING SORRY FOR MYSELF
Having spent another sleepless night, I now officially have the winter cold - sore throat, cough, sneezes and a runny nose - lovely!!! And at such a convenient time too!
Feel a bit fed up to be honest.
Feel a bit fed up to be honest.
Monday, 21 December 2009
MUST BE NEARLY CHRISTMAS...
... because all the old sit-coms are on BBC1 during the afternoon. Must admit it makes a nice change from the usual dross - Only Fools and Horses, followed by that programme with Hyacinth Bucket (Bouquet) - Keeping up Appearances, that's the one - I'd forgotten how funny it is!!
Try changing the morning schedule now from the usual doom and gloom stuff you have on every day - there's a limit to the number of disasters any sane person can cope with hearing about.
Try changing the morning schedule now from the usual doom and gloom stuff you have on every day - there's a limit to the number of disasters any sane person can cope with hearing about.
IT WOULD APPEAR...
... that the temperature has risen above freezing for the first time in days and the snow is beginning to get away at last.
Driving into (and even back from) Morpeth along the A697 yesterday was an absolute nightmare. It didn't look as if any grit had been put down between here and Longhorsley at all, so we had to crawl along at a steady pace. Charles was doing his nut about a really nervous driver who was a few cars in front of us on the way home who drove at no more than 10 MPH - which I have to agree was a little over cautious.
Actually, the weather today is gorgeous. Lovely blue skies, sun and occasional flakes of snow. A pretty perfect winter's day really.
We're not planning to go out today, but have plenty to do around the house. I am trying to fight of this cold and am dosed up with Lemsip Max and getting through Soothers as if my life depends on them!
As for the pups, they have just settled for their morning sleep, which is a bit late for them, but they obviously don't want to miss out on anything that's going on and are always a bit more restless when Charles is at home. It's that change to routine that they find difficult.
Driving into (and even back from) Morpeth along the A697 yesterday was an absolute nightmare. It didn't look as if any grit had been put down between here and Longhorsley at all, so we had to crawl along at a steady pace. Charles was doing his nut about a really nervous driver who was a few cars in front of us on the way home who drove at no more than 10 MPH - which I have to agree was a little over cautious.
Actually, the weather today is gorgeous. Lovely blue skies, sun and occasional flakes of snow. A pretty perfect winter's day really.
We're not planning to go out today, but have plenty to do around the house. I am trying to fight of this cold and am dosed up with Lemsip Max and getting through Soothers as if my life depends on them!
As for the pups, they have just settled for their morning sleep, which is a bit late for them, but they obviously don't want to miss out on anything that's going on and are always a bit more restless when Charles is at home. It's that change to routine that they find difficult.
WHY IS IT...
... that five days before Christmas, I'm up all night with a raging sore throat and the beginnings of a cold?
I DON'T NEED THIS NOW!!
I DON'T NEED THIS NOW!!
Sunday, 20 December 2009
RIGHT...
... the pups are asleep and I'm going to watch the Newcastle game that Charles thoughtfully recorded this afternoon.
THAWING OUT NOW!
That's ME thats thawing out, obviously it's still freezing outside, but I can feel my fingers and toes again now.
Actually, to be fair, it wasn't as bad as I was expecting at the match. Admittedly I was wearing many layers, but I didn't really need to resort to the blanket, although I did discretely wrap it round my feet at half time!
I would like to say it was a good game, but it wasn't. Oh the result was good, but the actual play was pretty scrappy. Collocini has gone from being a clown last season to a really class act and was my MOTM today, although it actually went to Enrique again.
James and I managed to fit in some shopping and a bite to eat before the game and a bit more shopping after it. So we had a good day all told.
Actually, to be fair, it wasn't as bad as I was expecting at the match. Admittedly I was wearing many layers, but I didn't really need to resort to the blanket, although I did discretely wrap it round my feet at half time!
I would like to say it was a good game, but it wasn't. Oh the result was good, but the actual play was pretty scrappy. Collocini has gone from being a clown last season to a really class act and was my MOTM today, although it actually went to Enrique again.
James and I managed to fit in some shopping and a bite to eat before the game and a bit more shopping after it. So we had a good day all told.
Saturday, 19 December 2009
SOUNDS LIKE...
... Mark Hughes is on his way. It certainly looked as though he was saying his goodbyes at the end of today's match. Apparently there's to be an announcement at 7.30 this evening. Shame really; when you look at Man City's position in the league it's not that bad. Plus they beat Sunderland today, didn't they Agent Bruce!!!
SNOWING AGAIN
It's snowing, I'm eating a warm mince pie with brandy butter, the pups are snoozing at my feet...
... and all is well!!
... and all is well!!
IF YOU'RE GOING OUT TODAY...
... GET YOUR THERMAL UNDIES ON!
It's absolutely freezing out there! We went down to Morpeth earlier and the cold nearly took your breath away.
We went early to try to avoid the crush, but then so did everyone else it would appear, so that plan didn't work very well.
We were taking advantage of our £25 Morrison's vouchers. Charles and I had one each, so we were able to stock up on Christmas drink and stuff without feeling as though we had spent much at all.
After that we mooched around the town a bit and bumped into James and Emma (the lovely Kate's equally lovely sister) in the new coffee shop, so they came to join us for a bit of a chat, which was nice.
Now we're back home (obviously because I'm writing the blog!) and Charles is nicely settled in front of the telly watching the football. (It must be Portsmouth, because I can hear the crowd singing that annoying 'Pompey bells' chant that they , but I don't know who they're playing.)
I'm going to make a batch of mince stars in a while and then James is coming over for a while.
The puppies are being fab today. We had a discussion with James earlier about whether or not they are technically still puppies. I suppose they're not really, but then again neither are they adults, so I guess we've now got teenage dogs. Whatever they are they are going through a really lovely settled phase and are just delightful. When I think back to the weeks following their arrival, it's hard to believe the huge amount of time and energy we had to put into their care. They are so much easier now and bring us so much pleasure. (Now that I've said that they will almost certainly turn into a couple of little monsters for the rest of the day!)
Well, my feet are beginning to thaw out a bit at last. Goodness knows what we're going to feel like tomorrow at this time. We might have to abandon our anti-Ashley principles and go for a half time hot chocolate to warm us up a bit!
It's absolutely freezing out there! We went down to Morpeth earlier and the cold nearly took your breath away.
We went early to try to avoid the crush, but then so did everyone else it would appear, so that plan didn't work very well.
We were taking advantage of our £25 Morrison's vouchers. Charles and I had one each, so we were able to stock up on Christmas drink and stuff without feeling as though we had spent much at all.
After that we mooched around the town a bit and bumped into James and Emma (the lovely Kate's equally lovely sister) in the new coffee shop, so they came to join us for a bit of a chat, which was nice.
Now we're back home (obviously because I'm writing the blog!) and Charles is nicely settled in front of the telly watching the football. (It must be Portsmouth, because I can hear the crowd singing that annoying 'Pompey bells' chant that they , but I don't know who they're playing.)
I'm going to make a batch of mince stars in a while and then James is coming over for a while.
The puppies are being fab today. We had a discussion with James earlier about whether or not they are technically still puppies. I suppose they're not really, but then again neither are they adults, so I guess we've now got teenage dogs. Whatever they are they are going through a really lovely settled phase and are just delightful. When I think back to the weeks following their arrival, it's hard to believe the huge amount of time and energy we had to put into their care. They are so much easier now and bring us so much pleasure. (Now that I've said that they will almost certainly turn into a couple of little monsters for the rest of the day!)
Well, my feet are beginning to thaw out a bit at last. Goodness knows what we're going to feel like tomorrow at this time. We might have to abandon our anti-Ashley principles and go for a half time hot chocolate to warm us up a bit!
Friday, 18 December 2009
OUTSIDE...
... the front door, the snow is really hard-packed and frozen solid. It's covered in hundreds of tiny paw prints. I've just been outside with the puppies and there, glinting in the snow I found...
... another tiny tooth!
How much longer is this going to go on? Up to now I haven't managed to get a good look inside their mouths to see which pup has lost the most teeth, or even to check whether there is any sign of their new ones yet. Just a thought, do puppies grow into their teeth like children do, I wonder? You know, when children get their adult teeth they tend to look too big for their faces at first. I wonder if it's the same for dogs?
Anyway, this is turning out to be rather a quiet and boring evening. The pups have decided to have a really early night (they're no fun at all!) and I'm all by myself again!! (Aaaah)
I was going to try to keep them up until Charles got back, because I can guarantee that they will wake up when they hear him crunching down the drive, but it looks like they've got different ideas. Oh well - if he wakes them up, he can just get them settled again.
... another tiny tooth!
How much longer is this going to go on? Up to now I haven't managed to get a good look inside their mouths to see which pup has lost the most teeth, or even to check whether there is any sign of their new ones yet. Just a thought, do puppies grow into their teeth like children do, I wonder? You know, when children get their adult teeth they tend to look too big for their faces at first. I wonder if it's the same for dogs?
Anyway, this is turning out to be rather a quiet and boring evening. The pups have decided to have a really early night (they're no fun at all!) and I'm all by myself again!! (Aaaah)
I was going to try to keep them up until Charles got back, because I can guarantee that they will wake up when they hear him crunching down the drive, but it looks like they've got different ideas. Oh well - if he wakes them up, he can just get them settled again.
CHARLES IS...
... going out for the staff Christmas party tonight.
James is also going out with some of his work colleagues.
As I no longer have any staff or work colleagues I won't be going anywhere!!!
So Pups, what should WE do tonight?
James is also going out with some of his work colleagues.
As I no longer have any staff or work colleagues I won't be going anywhere!!!
So Pups, what should WE do tonight?
BARKING MAD!
That's the puppies this afternoon.
They've had a go at everything that moves - all the traffic, everyone who has walked past the house, the snow, any birds daft enough to fly near the house and next door's dog who decided to have a wander up our drive (bet you wont do THAT again Edward V1. I wonder how long it'll take before your ears stop ringing!)
You name it, they've barked at it today!
They've had a go at everything that moves - all the traffic, everyone who has walked past the house, the snow, any birds daft enough to fly near the house and next door's dog who decided to have a wander up our drive (bet you wont do THAT again Edward V1. I wonder how long it'll take before your ears stop ringing!)
You name it, they've barked at it today!
I THINK YOU KNOW YOU'VE HAD TOO MANY INDIAN TAKEAWAYS WHEN...
... you get a calendar AND a hand written Christmas card from 'ALL AT MORPETH TANDOORI' - tell you what, how about a free meal next year? That would be good!!
I HATE THIS DAY
18th December, exactly one week before Christmas - this was the date that James was admitted to the RVI with meningitis 22 years ago.
It's always been a bit of a bogey date since then. Once it's out of the way I start looking forward to Christmas. Silly, I know, but there you go.
We had a very poorly little boy then, and it was only thanks to the prompt action of our GP that he was treated promptly and made a full recovery. So often I see other people who have had this illness but have been left terribly disabled. James was incredibly lucky, but at the time no one at the RVI could assure us that his recovery would be compete, or that he would even make it through.
I remember that in those days I used to make jewellery and I had been preparing lots of Christmas brooches at home ready to stock my stall at the Chantry. Obviously, everything was just left behind when the doctor arranged for an ambulance to take us straight to Newcastle and, when we returned on Boxing Day to find all the findings and beads and stuff lying on the table, it just seemed so trivial that I don't think I ever really bothered with jewellery making again and just wound up the stalls and called it a day.
It's always been a bit of a bogey date since then. Once it's out of the way I start looking forward to Christmas. Silly, I know, but there you go.
We had a very poorly little boy then, and it was only thanks to the prompt action of our GP that he was treated promptly and made a full recovery. So often I see other people who have had this illness but have been left terribly disabled. James was incredibly lucky, but at the time no one at the RVI could assure us that his recovery would be compete, or that he would even make it through.
I remember that in those days I used to make jewellery and I had been preparing lots of Christmas brooches at home ready to stock my stall at the Chantry. Obviously, everything was just left behind when the doctor arranged for an ambulance to take us straight to Newcastle and, when we returned on Boxing Day to find all the findings and beads and stuff lying on the table, it just seemed so trivial that I don't think I ever really bothered with jewellery making again and just wound up the stalls and called it a day.
BY MY RECKONING...
... Charles should be home any minute now!
I know what happens when schools break up for Christmas - there's no holding the staff back! They will be practically running out of the school gates, with their lists clasped in their little hands, probably heading for the shops as we speak! (Well the women will - probably the men are just planning on going home and putting their feet up with a nice glass of wine and a mince pie!)
Charles, I have news...
I know what happens when schools break up for Christmas - there's no holding the staff back! They will be practically running out of the school gates, with their lists clasped in their little hands, probably heading for the shops as we speak! (Well the women will - probably the men are just planning on going home and putting their feet up with a nice glass of wine and a mince pie!)
Charles, I have news...
NUFC/MIDDLESBROUGH
James and I are going on Sunday. I'm beginning to worry about what to wear in order to keep warm and avoid frostbite and exposure. (Not that any bits of me will be exposed!)
Clearly there is a need for lots of layers - in fact probably enough to make me look like the Michelin Man (or woman). I think it'll need to be warm tights, denim leggings, two pairs of socks, boots, a tee shirt, two jumpers and a coat, topped off with a woolly hat and gloves. (I'm even considering taking a chenille throw to wrap round my legs, but I'm sure James will have a fit if he thinks I'm going to turn up looking like an old vagrant bag lady!)
Actually the more I think about it, Charles has probably come out of this best, because he's staying at home, in the warm and watching it on telly!
But, having said that, I'm looking forward to it because we're going to get to town early to do some last minute shopping. Nothing major, just a few bits, like a new top for ME! - and then we're going to have lunch before the match, so it should be an enjoyable day. The only likely fly in the ointment is the fact that there will undoubtedly be thousands of people in town and if there's one thing I HATE with a passion it's crowds of shoppers, tripping you up and jostling you with their bags...
... but hey, it's Christmas so what the heck?!
(I still wish, Christmas or not, that I could be about six inches taller, so that I could avoid ending up with my nose pushed into strangers' armpits. It's never pleasant!)
Clearly there is a need for lots of layers - in fact probably enough to make me look like the Michelin Man (or woman). I think it'll need to be warm tights, denim leggings, two pairs of socks, boots, a tee shirt, two jumpers and a coat, topped off with a woolly hat and gloves. (I'm even considering taking a chenille throw to wrap round my legs, but I'm sure James will have a fit if he thinks I'm going to turn up looking like an old vagrant bag lady!)
Actually the more I think about it, Charles has probably come out of this best, because he's staying at home, in the warm and watching it on telly!
But, having said that, I'm looking forward to it because we're going to get to town early to do some last minute shopping. Nothing major, just a few bits, like a new top for ME! - and then we're going to have lunch before the match, so it should be an enjoyable day. The only likely fly in the ointment is the fact that there will undoubtedly be thousands of people in town and if there's one thing I HATE with a passion it's crowds of shoppers, tripping you up and jostling you with their bags...
... but hey, it's Christmas so what the heck?!
(I still wish, Christmas or not, that I could be about six inches taller, so that I could avoid ending up with my nose pushed into strangers' armpits. It's never pleasant!)
OH WOW!
I've just checked the visitor counter on the blog - and we've exceeded 5000. How brilliant is that?
I love writing the blog, but it really is just a collection of my ramblings and witterings - but hey, if people like reading it I'm delighted!
I love writing the blog, but it really is just a collection of my ramblings and witterings - but hey, if people like reading it I'm delighted!
BRRRRRRRRRR!!!!
How cold is it this morning?
And yet my two little Westies seem oblivious to the freezing temperatures and are outside playing happily in the snow! Tough little things they are!
Well, we can't do much today. Charles has gone to school with Lorraine who lives just up the road and has a very nice 4x4 - ideal for weather like this. He's left his car on the drive behind mine. He tried to move it so that I could get out if I needed to, but couldn't even get it off the drive! So, we're pretty much stuck for the day!
Of course it's the last day of term, so there'll be lots of excited children (and teachers and HEAD TEACHERS!) today! AND THIS TIME NEXT WEEK IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY!!!
And yet my two little Westies seem oblivious to the freezing temperatures and are outside playing happily in the snow! Tough little things they are!
Well, we can't do much today. Charles has gone to school with Lorraine who lives just up the road and has a very nice 4x4 - ideal for weather like this. He's left his car on the drive behind mine. He tried to move it so that I could get out if I needed to, but couldn't even get it off the drive! So, we're pretty much stuck for the day!
Of course it's the last day of term, so there'll be lots of excited children (and teachers and HEAD TEACHERS!) today! AND THIS TIME NEXT WEEK IT'S CHRISTMAS DAY!!!
Thursday, 17 December 2009
IT'S FREEZING PRETTY HARD NOW
I keep rushing outside to sweep the drive before the next flurry freezes. I've got it into my head that the pups are going to go chasing outside, as is their wont, and they're going to skid and break a leg, or something! I keep telling myself that they're DOGS and have four legs, therefore increased stability, but I just keep thinking that that's more legs to break then!
ISN'T IT ANNOYING...
... when you make a big batch of meringues and then have loads of egg yolks left over, so you have to make a creme brulee, which you then have to eat, thereby consuming millions of calories?
Why can't nice and yummy things be good for you, is what I want to know?
Why can't nice and yummy things be good for you, is what I want to know?
BEEN OUT...
... and brushed away the snow from the puppies play area at the front of the house. They had been out a bit earlier and were haring around and skidding everywhere and I was worried they would break their little legs!!!
Anyway, no sooner have I taken advantage of a break in the snow and got it cleared away than it starts again. This time it's more like hail and sleet and the noise against the window is fascinating the pups.
Well, it has certainly given them a bit of excitement this morning, in fact they're too wound up to settle for their morning sleep.
Anyway, no sooner have I taken advantage of a break in the snow and got it cleared away than it starts again. This time it's more like hail and sleet and the noise against the window is fascinating the pups.
Well, it has certainly given them a bit of excitement this morning, in fact they're too wound up to settle for their morning sleep.
IT'S SNOWING!!!
And the puppies are excited as a couple of kids!!!
Admittedly it's pretty wet stuff, but it has given a bit of a covering, certainly enough to turn the world white and strange as far as the puppies are concerned. They really don't know quite what to make of it - it's certainly something else worth barking at!
The lovely thing about it as far as I'm concerned, is that I don't have to go out in it if I don't want to. I can stay warm and cosy inside and don't have to worry about driving in it.
Last year, when I had the MG, I used to dread snow and icy roads because that car was terrible in those conditions. One day, when it was snowing really heavily in Heddon, I even had to ask one of the local farmers to move it to the outskirts of the village because it would have just mown down everything in it's path. I wonder what minis are like in bad weather? Hopefully a bit more stable than MGs.
Admittedly it's pretty wet stuff, but it has given a bit of a covering, certainly enough to turn the world white and strange as far as the puppies are concerned. They really don't know quite what to make of it - it's certainly something else worth barking at!
The lovely thing about it as far as I'm concerned, is that I don't have to go out in it if I don't want to. I can stay warm and cosy inside and don't have to worry about driving in it.
Last year, when I had the MG, I used to dread snow and icy roads because that car was terrible in those conditions. One day, when it was snowing really heavily in Heddon, I even had to ask one of the local farmers to move it to the outskirts of the village because it would have just mown down everything in it's path. I wonder what minis are like in bad weather? Hopefully a bit more stable than MGs.
Wednesday, 16 December 2009
CUPCAKES
Three varieties turned out today, at the request of Charles and James: Raspberry, Mississippi Mud and Ginger. I really hope they go down well at work!! Of course, Charles has to do the taste test before they go anywhere just to make sure I'm not going to be poisoning anyone. He's still breathing at the moment!
The puppies, meanwhile, are enjoying a 'puppy tubo' each. These are supposed to be good for their teeth and gums. Lily has polished hers off in no time, but Rose is taking a bit longer because of course she has hardly any teeth at the moment! Now that Lily has finished, she wants Rose to come and play and is doing everything she can think of to distract her. So far, it's not working and Rose is still gumming her tubo to bits. Lily has now resorted to putting on a sort of show of really silly behaviour - and its STILL not having the desired effect!! Now she's decided that she's just going to have to wait it out and she's lying flat on the floor, inches away from Rose and is staring her out and willing her to finish. (Actually, knowing Lily, she's lying as close as possible because there's a chance that there may be some crumbs left over that she can 'hoover' up in a minute!)
The puppies, meanwhile, are enjoying a 'puppy tubo' each. These are supposed to be good for their teeth and gums. Lily has polished hers off in no time, but Rose is taking a bit longer because of course she has hardly any teeth at the moment! Now that Lily has finished, she wants Rose to come and play and is doing everything she can think of to distract her. So far, it's not working and Rose is still gumming her tubo to bits. Lily has now resorted to putting on a sort of show of really silly behaviour - and its STILL not having the desired effect!! Now she's decided that she's just going to have to wait it out and she's lying flat on the floor, inches away from Rose and is staring her out and willing her to finish. (Actually, knowing Lily, she's lying as close as possible because there's a chance that there may be some crumbs left over that she can 'hoover' up in a minute!)
DING, DONG, MERRILY ON HIGH!
Hmmmm! The church bells are ringing tonight - or more accurately the church BELL is clanging tonight - and the puppies are not at all happy. Mind you, I'm guessing that most of the population of our village aren't happy either - it's not a pleasant sound. If I lived at the other end of the village, nearer the church, I would positively dread Sunday mornings. And I have to say - if anyone is thinking of getting married in our little village church - DON'T PAY EXTRA FOR THE BELL, IT'S HONESTLY NOT WORTH IT! JUST GET ONE OF YOUR MATES TO BANG A SPOON AGAINST A SAUCEPAN AND YOU'LL GET THE SAME EFFECT FOR FREE!
I suppose if you've only got one bell, it cuts down on the need for bell ringers. Or, just a thought - maybe there are really LOTS of bells but we only have ONE bell ringer, so the other bells remain redundant. Who knows? (Well presumably the vicar does.)
I suppose if you've only got one bell, it cuts down on the need for bell ringers. Or, just a thought - maybe there are really LOTS of bells but we only have ONE bell ringer, so the other bells remain redundant. Who knows? (Well presumably the vicar does.)
YOU'LL BE PLEASED TO HEAR THAT...
... after all the anxiety last night, Rose is perfectly fine today and is currently beating her sister to a pulp!
BAKING AGAIN!
We've been to Morpeth, picked up Jim's suit trousers and had to listen to the woman in the shop telling me how lovely he is (what does he DO to these middle aged women - I'm being kind about the age!), called at Heighley Gate, got home and unpacked, said a quick hello to Charles who popped in on his way to the headteacher's Christmas Jolly at Embleton Hall and now we're making cupcakes. (You'll notice I said, 'we' - that's because I've got two fluffy littLe helpers today - GREAT!!!)
Tuesday, 15 December 2009
MAJOR PANIC
Oh God - we've just had a fright.
Before I gave the pups the bones, Rose had been worrying at the side of her mouth with her paw which was why we thought the bones would be a good idea to help to soothe sore gums.
Then she looked as if she had something stuck in her throat and she began making constant biting movements, which in retrospect, were probably because it was her back teeth that were hurting her. We checked to see if there was an obstruction, but couldn't see or feel anything.
But it became clear that she was in real discomfort and she was going to make herself really sore if she carried on worrying at her mouth, so we rang the vet for advice. In the meantime she lost her THIRD molar THIS EVENING. Poor little thing, that's a lot of teeth to lose in such a short time. No wonder she was in some discomfort - we think the last tooth had probably been hanging loose and annoying her. Anyway, once it had come out, she calmed down and stopped all the pawing and biting.
I have to say that although she was obviously hurting, she never even whimpered! Brave girl Rose!!!
Maybe we're being over-anxious (yes, Charles was as worried as I was) but we've never had pups before and haven't a clue what to expect with this teething lark.
Thankfully though, we seem to be back to normal now!
Before I gave the pups the bones, Rose had been worrying at the side of her mouth with her paw which was why we thought the bones would be a good idea to help to soothe sore gums.
Then she looked as if she had something stuck in her throat and she began making constant biting movements, which in retrospect, were probably because it was her back teeth that were hurting her. We checked to see if there was an obstruction, but couldn't see or feel anything.
But it became clear that she was in real discomfort and she was going to make herself really sore if she carried on worrying at her mouth, so we rang the vet for advice. In the meantime she lost her THIRD molar THIS EVENING. Poor little thing, that's a lot of teeth to lose in such a short time. No wonder she was in some discomfort - we think the last tooth had probably been hanging loose and annoying her. Anyway, once it had come out, she calmed down and stopped all the pawing and biting.
I have to say that although she was obviously hurting, she never even whimpered! Brave girl Rose!!!
Maybe we're being over-anxious (yes, Charles was as worried as I was) but we've never had pups before and haven't a clue what to expect with this teething lark.
Thankfully though, we seem to be back to normal now!
BONES!
Well, the girls have had their first proper bones this evening.
We'd had a rib (or two) of beef at the weekend and after I'd boiled them to make stock and stripped off all the loose bony bits, the pups were allowed to have the ribs. I think they're in heaven!!!
They're obviously both teething at the moment and are desperate to chew on anything, so this seemed the obvious solution.
And now there are tiny teeth all over the place!
We'd had a rib (or two) of beef at the weekend and after I'd boiled them to make stock and stripped off all the loose bony bits, the pups were allowed to have the ribs. I think they're in heaven!!!
They're obviously both teething at the moment and are desperate to chew on anything, so this seemed the obvious solution.
And now there are tiny teeth all over the place!
DANNYMATT
We've given the girls a long walk this afternoon, so we'll see if it has an impact on their behaviour later this evening. They do seem more tired than usual for this time of day, so we may be onto something. They walk for about a mile at a time at the moment, although I'm sure they could do more. As we're still getting then lead trained they don't have much freedom yet. I must say I'm looking forward to the days when we can let them off the lead - and know that they will come back! (It certainly wouldn't happen yet!)
LOST THE LAPTOP...
... this afternoon!
Not that I misplaced it, but Charles needed it to get on with his SEF form.
However, having an afternoon with no internet and nothing much to do meant that I was able to discover a whole TV channel dedicated to FOOD! It's the Good Food Channel and it is wall to wall food programmes - right up my street!
Clearly I've got the laptop back now, but unfortunately not much to write about because nothing's been happening!
By the way, hasn't Fabio Cappello's English improved recently? (I only ask this because he's just been on SSN, it wasn't a totally random thought!)
Not that I misplaced it, but Charles needed it to get on with his SEF form.
However, having an afternoon with no internet and nothing much to do meant that I was able to discover a whole TV channel dedicated to FOOD! It's the Good Food Channel and it is wall to wall food programmes - right up my street!
Clearly I've got the laptop back now, but unfortunately not much to write about because nothing's been happening!
By the way, hasn't Fabio Cappello's English improved recently? (I only ask this because he's just been on SSN, it wasn't a totally random thought!)
MISERABLE DAY
It's pouring with rain this morning - not conducive to going anywhere - even the puppies seem to prefer to be inside.
We're not planning to do much today, but have a fairly busy day planned for tomorrow. Charles and James have both asked me to make cupcakes for them to take into work, so I'll be shopping for ingredients and then making about 50 little cakes. (Don't worry James - I won't forget to pick up your suit trousers as well!!!)
But today looks like being a bit of a non-event so far. All the chores are done, the girls are snoozing and I'm wondering what to do with myself!
Just as a matter of interest (not that you will be in the least bit interested, I'm sure!) there is STILL no indication that BT are going to send anyone to sort out our telephone line. So much for the guy last week who assured me it would be sorted by Friday!!! To be honest, the phone IS working at the moment, so I'm not too worried, but any more of this rain and we're probably going to find that we are cut off again - so if the blog goes quiet that will be the reason.
We're not planning to do much today, but have a fairly busy day planned for tomorrow. Charles and James have both asked me to make cupcakes for them to take into work, so I'll be shopping for ingredients and then making about 50 little cakes. (Don't worry James - I won't forget to pick up your suit trousers as well!!!)
But today looks like being a bit of a non-event so far. All the chores are done, the girls are snoozing and I'm wondering what to do with myself!
Just as a matter of interest (not that you will be in the least bit interested, I'm sure!) there is STILL no indication that BT are going to send anyone to sort out our telephone line. So much for the guy last week who assured me it would be sorted by Friday!!! To be honest, the phone IS working at the moment, so I'm not too worried, but any more of this rain and we're probably going to find that we are cut off again - so if the blog goes quiet that will be the reason.
WHEN I SAID...
... that the puppies were little angels in a morning...
... I clearly didn't mean EVERY morning!
They are certainly NOT little angels today - and actually seem quite grumpy with each other.
Also, they have just discovered the dratted Christmas wreath and are giving it a good verbal rollicking as I write.
... I clearly didn't mean EVERY morning!
They are certainly NOT little angels today - and actually seem quite grumpy with each other.
Also, they have just discovered the dratted Christmas wreath and are giving it a good verbal rollicking as I write.
Monday, 14 December 2009
ARE WE GOING TO HAVE SNOW THIS WEEK?
It certainly sounds as if it's going to be cold enough by the end of the week.
I wonder what the girls will make of it! Not a lot probably!!
They really don't like anything different or new. Only this afternoon I was putting up a Christmas wreath on the front door (using one of those special, heavy duty, suction wreath holders from Lakeland THAT DOESN'T WORK!) and you would have thought I was stringing up one of their relations from the amount of anguished barking that ensued. No amount of reassuring noises from me would convince them that this wasn't something to be afraid of!
I've since given up trying to fix it on the door and have suspended it from a hook NEXT to the door. The pups haven't noticed it yet!!!
I wonder what the girls will make of it! Not a lot probably!!
They really don't like anything different or new. Only this afternoon I was putting up a Christmas wreath on the front door (using one of those special, heavy duty, suction wreath holders from Lakeland THAT DOESN'T WORK!) and you would have thought I was stringing up one of their relations from the amount of anguished barking that ensued. No amount of reassuring noises from me would convince them that this wasn't something to be afraid of!
I've since given up trying to fix it on the door and have suspended it from a hook NEXT to the door. The pups haven't noticed it yet!!!
WHY IS IT...
... that in the mornings and the early part of the afternoon the pups are absolutely adorable, but by about 4.30 every day they have turned into the puppies from hell?
EVERYBODY'S GONE...
...to Morpeth - apart from the pups and myself!
Richard, Sarah and Grandma are going to explore the delights of the new shopping centre. As they come from the Preston area they may be a little disappointed and may find it a bit provincial - but WE'RE proud of it, and I think they'll manage to find the last few presents they need to buy.
We had a lovely day yesterday - typical family sitting around chatting and watching x factor and the Sports Personality of the Year Award. Wasn't Ryan Giggs taken by surprise? But a good choice I thought!
Obviously I don't need to say any more about Joe, except that we were all thrilled for him.
Today, Charles is working from home so the girls and I need to keep out of the way. He's having some problems with the data site that he needs to access to inform his school self-evaluation. Typically, they've decided to carry out technical work on the site on the very day that he's planned to use it! So, he's not too happy about that!
Richard, Sarah and Grandma are going to explore the delights of the new shopping centre. As they come from the Preston area they may be a little disappointed and may find it a bit provincial - but WE'RE proud of it, and I think they'll manage to find the last few presents they need to buy.
We had a lovely day yesterday - typical family sitting around chatting and watching x factor and the Sports Personality of the Year Award. Wasn't Ryan Giggs taken by surprise? But a good choice I thought!
Obviously I don't need to say any more about Joe, except that we were all thrilled for him.
Today, Charles is working from home so the girls and I need to keep out of the way. He's having some problems with the data site that he needs to access to inform his school self-evaluation. Typically, they've decided to carry out technical work on the site on the very day that he's planned to use it! So, he's not too happy about that!
Sunday, 13 December 2009
SUNDAY MORNING
And there's a lovely rib of beef waiting to go in the oven!! Yum yum!! Nothing says 'Sunday' quite like roast beef and Yorkshire puds!
For pud we are having a number of experimental desserts that hopefully will make a further appearance over Christmas (not these exact ones obviously!) We're going to try the chocolate orange terrine, a white chocolate and raspberry mousse and lemon possett with orange shortbread. (There is also an apple pie because everyone who comes for lunch has come to expect one!!!) This probably sounds a bit excessive, but taster portions will be the order of the day - and only if people want to be piglets will they have a full bowlful!
We're expecting Richard, Sarah and Grandma to arrive about midday, so lunch will probably be at about 1ish. James will join us for lunch, before heading to the Anglers Arms for the football team Christmas bash. Actually, he's suffering with 'man flu' at the moment, so he probably wont enjoy either very much!
The puppies are looking stunning this morning, following their beauty session last night. It was so much easier to put them both in the bath together and completely stopped them fretting for each other. They almost seemed to enjoy the blow dry and both fluffed up beautifully! (Of course, by the time they've been for a walk down Villa Lane later, we might as well not have bothered!)
Following much pressure from Charles, I agreed to put up the tree yesterday. I think he wanted it up to make the house seem really festive for his family, although I would have preferred to leave it until next week. I'm not one of those who has lots of decorations, nor do I like them around for too long. In fact once New Year's Day is out of the way I'm usually itching to get them put away. Anyway - it's up and decorated and it looks very nice!
Right, I'm off to sort out the lunch.
Be back later!
For pud we are having a number of experimental desserts that hopefully will make a further appearance over Christmas (not these exact ones obviously!) We're going to try the chocolate orange terrine, a white chocolate and raspberry mousse and lemon possett with orange shortbread. (There is also an apple pie because everyone who comes for lunch has come to expect one!!!) This probably sounds a bit excessive, but taster portions will be the order of the day - and only if people want to be piglets will they have a full bowlful!
We're expecting Richard, Sarah and Grandma to arrive about midday, so lunch will probably be at about 1ish. James will join us for lunch, before heading to the Anglers Arms for the football team Christmas bash. Actually, he's suffering with 'man flu' at the moment, so he probably wont enjoy either very much!
The puppies are looking stunning this morning, following their beauty session last night. It was so much easier to put them both in the bath together and completely stopped them fretting for each other. They almost seemed to enjoy the blow dry and both fluffed up beautifully! (Of course, by the time they've been for a walk down Villa Lane later, we might as well not have bothered!)
Following much pressure from Charles, I agreed to put up the tree yesterday. I think he wanted it up to make the house seem really festive for his family, although I would have preferred to leave it until next week. I'm not one of those who has lots of decorations, nor do I like them around for too long. In fact once New Year's Day is out of the way I'm usually itching to get them put away. Anyway - it's up and decorated and it looks very nice!
Right, I'm off to sort out the lunch.
Be back later!
Saturday, 12 December 2009
BY THE WAY...
...Charles DID remember the car shampoo...
... and then decided to take my car to Morpeth to put it throught the car wash!!!
WHY?
... and then decided to take my car to Morpeth to put it throught the car wash!!!
WHY?
VOTE FOR JOE!
Come on Joe, you're nearly there!
I tell you what - it's not that easy to vote because the lines are all snarled up forever. I managed to get through tonight with about a minute to spare. As you can tell, I feel that my vote is the one that will make all the difference.
To be honest, if Joe wasn't in the competition I would vote for Ollie, but he is, so I won't!
I tell you what - it's not that easy to vote because the lines are all snarled up forever. I managed to get through tonight with about a minute to spare. As you can tell, I feel that my vote is the one that will make all the difference.
To be honest, if Joe wasn't in the competition I would vote for Ollie, but he is, so I won't!
JUST SITTING DOWN FOR A MINUTE!
First chance for me this morning! (Charles can't, however, say the same, having sat and watched The Restaurant and Waterloo Road while I'm jumping up and down 'cos I need him to go to Morpeth and get back again quickly so I can get on with more stuff!)
Do all men have this uncanny knack of being able to remain totally oblivious to everything that's going on around them and yet give their total attention to the thing THEY want to do? Or is it a particular skill that Charles has?
Anyway - he's finally gone, but worryingly he rang to check that he'd got everything and omitted to mention the car shampoo that was top of the list. I've tried ringing back, but he's not answering his phone, probably because he thinks I'll be asking him to spend more money! Well, at least I've tried and if he's forgotten it he'll just have to go back again. (Mrs Popular will not be my name!)
We did take the girls for a long walk this morning (probably the reason for Charles's extended TV slump) It was lovely walking along the lane and seeing the mist over the fields and dawn breaking - yes it was that early! They had their harnesses on again and certainly walk better than with their usual collars. Since we got back they have been dozing companionably, not even bothering too much when I put the hoover (Dyson) round.
Rose hasn't been scratching at her ear so much today, I'm pleased to report. I did forget to mention that although there's apparently nothing wrong with her, she has been given some anti-inflammatory drops which we use twice a day, so maybe they're beginning to calm whatever it is (or isn't) down a bit. We're going to give them a bath later (not getting water near Rose's ears) and then use the flea/nit/bug stuff that they have every month. (Obviously they've got to look and smell their best when their Grandma comes tomorrow!!)
I'm looking at them now - fast asleep on the leather bucket chair. They're lying with their hind legs curled round each other and look for all the world like one puppy with two heads (Siamese puppies!)
(NB: Found more little teeth today)
Do all men have this uncanny knack of being able to remain totally oblivious to everything that's going on around them and yet give their total attention to the thing THEY want to do? Or is it a particular skill that Charles has?
Anyway - he's finally gone, but worryingly he rang to check that he'd got everything and omitted to mention the car shampoo that was top of the list. I've tried ringing back, but he's not answering his phone, probably because he thinks I'll be asking him to spend more money! Well, at least I've tried and if he's forgotten it he'll just have to go back again. (Mrs Popular will not be my name!)
We did take the girls for a long walk this morning (probably the reason for Charles's extended TV slump) It was lovely walking along the lane and seeing the mist over the fields and dawn breaking - yes it was that early! They had their harnesses on again and certainly walk better than with their usual collars. Since we got back they have been dozing companionably, not even bothering too much when I put the hoover (Dyson) round.
Rose hasn't been scratching at her ear so much today, I'm pleased to report. I did forget to mention that although there's apparently nothing wrong with her, she has been given some anti-inflammatory drops which we use twice a day, so maybe they're beginning to calm whatever it is (or isn't) down a bit. We're going to give them a bath later (not getting water near Rose's ears) and then use the flea/nit/bug stuff that they have every month. (Obviously they've got to look and smell their best when their Grandma comes tomorrow!!)
I'm looking at them now - fast asleep on the leather bucket chair. They're lying with their hind legs curled round each other and look for all the world like one puppy with two heads (Siamese puppies!)
(NB: Found more little teeth today)
Friday, 11 December 2009
YOU'LL NO DOUBT BE PLEASED TO KNOW...
... that there is nothing obviously wrong with Rose apart from a slightly pink ear.
Obviously we were delighted and relieved.
So can someone explain how I ended up forking out £60 when there wasn't a problem?
Obviously we were delighted and relieved.
So can someone explain how I ended up forking out £60 when there wasn't a problem?
WHAT'S GOING ON WITH THE WEATHER?
It was an absolutely glorious morning and then at lunchtime the fog started rolling in and it's been dark and miserable since then.
I only had time to notice this because the puppies didn't wake up until 2.45 and only then because I started banging around in the kitchen.
Charles is on his way home now and we're going to take the girls to Morpeth to get them sorted out. Typical - they've both been like wet weekends all day and now they're knocking seven bells out of each other!!
I only had time to notice this because the puppies didn't wake up until 2.45 and only then because I started banging around in the kitchen.
Charles is on his way home now and we're going to take the girls to Morpeth to get them sorted out. Typical - they've both been like wet weekends all day and now they're knocking seven bells out of each other!!
A VERY QUIET MORNING!
The puppies are having another very sleepy day. Even when I tried getting them to play out they just wanted to curl up in the beds and continue what has now been a morning long sleep. This cannot be normal. I'm glad we're going to the vets because I can have them BOTH checked over.
As for me, I've made Mississippi mud cupcakes and some ginger ones. I need to do some more baking later, but will wait till Charles gets back so that he can look after the girls and I can concentrate a bit better.
I absolutely hate it when the girls aren't right. I've been like this with all the pets we've had in the past. I think it's because they don't understand what's wrong with them and no amount of explaining from me is going to make any difference!! (That said, I DO talk to the girls all the time and I swear they understand SOME of it.)
Not much else to report today, I'm afraid. I'm going to give BT another hour and then I'm going to have a go at them. In fairness, the phone line does seem to be working at the moment (well, obviously it is because I'm on-line aren't I? Plus I've just had a call from my niece, Hannah, but I'm not going to explain why in case my sister reads the blog!!!) but there IS still a fault and we WERE told it would be sorted today.
Right, I'm going to check on the sleepyheads now.
As for me, I've made Mississippi mud cupcakes and some ginger ones. I need to do some more baking later, but will wait till Charles gets back so that he can look after the girls and I can concentrate a bit better.
I absolutely hate it when the girls aren't right. I've been like this with all the pets we've had in the past. I think it's because they don't understand what's wrong with them and no amount of explaining from me is going to make any difference!! (That said, I DO talk to the girls all the time and I swear they understand SOME of it.)
Not much else to report today, I'm afraid. I'm going to give BT another hour and then I'm going to have a go at them. In fairness, the phone line does seem to be working at the moment (well, obviously it is because I'm on-line aren't I? Plus I've just had a call from my niece, Hannah, but I'm not going to explain why in case my sister reads the blog!!!) but there IS still a fault and we WERE told it would be sorted today.
Right, I'm going to check on the sleepyheads now.
SO...
... HOW MANY BT ENGINEERS HAVE WE GOT DIGGING AT THE FRONT OF OUR HOUSE???
GO ON, HAVE A GUESS!!
NOT ONE, NOT A SAUSAGE, ******ALL - WOULD BE THE RIGHT ANSWER!
GO ON, HAVE A GUESS!!
NOT ONE, NOT A SAUSAGE, ******ALL - WOULD BE THE RIGHT ANSWER!
WE'RE GOING TO TAKE...
... Rose to the vet's today.
She has been scratching her ear for a couple of days now. Not constantly, but enough for us to have noticed it. This morning she's still doing it and is shaking her head a lot as well, so she may have an ear infection. Apart from that she's fine - still eating well and sleeping fine, playing around with her usual enthusiasm, but something's just not right, so I'll be happier if we get her checked over.
I'm going to try to get an appointment later today Actually we'll probably take both puppies and get them weighed as well. It'll be interesting to see if the still weigh the same as each other.
She has been scratching her ear for a couple of days now. Not constantly, but enough for us to have noticed it. This morning she's still doing it and is shaking her head a lot as well, so she may have an ear infection. Apart from that she's fine - still eating well and sleeping fine, playing around with her usual enthusiasm, but something's just not right, so I'll be happier if we get her checked over.
I'm going to try to get an appointment later today Actually we'll probably take both puppies and get them weighed as well. It'll be interesting to see if the still weigh the same as each other.
Thursday, 10 December 2009
DOES ANYONE ELSE...
... have an irresistible urge to smack the smirk of his face whenever Phil Brown is on telly?
BACK ON LINE - FOR THE TIME BEING!
Well we've had not one, but two telephone engineers her for the best part of the day. As predicted it would appear that we have exactly the same problem as earlier in the year and that to sort it out involves digging up the grass verge at the front of the house to get to the problem area. Of course, what you need to know is that your standard BT engineer DOES NOT DO DIGGING and this part of the job is sub-contracted out to another company. Interestingly, during the summer, the people in BT's call centre had absolutely NO IDEA which company was doing the work, nor when it was likely to be done! Anyway, the first of the engineers who came today assures me that we won't be waiting weeks and that someone who IS qualified to dig should be out later today or tomorrow at the latest. Well, as it's now nearly 3.30 and there's only about half an hour of daylight left, I can't really see it being today, so let's see what happens tomorrow.
The puppies have been extremely distressed by the comings and goings of these engineers, especially as wherever they go they seem to beep loudly at a pitch that must be excruciating for little dogs - or even big ones I would imagine. Consequently, now that they've gone, the girls are catching up on their beauty sleep! (It isn't the engineers themselves that beep - but the equipment they carry)
We went to Morpeth this morning, It wasn't pleasant! The supermarket was, yet again, full of the old, slow and seriously demented - in fact it was so busy there was gridlock at one point - seriously! However, eventually I managed to escape, having ended up with the cashier who's got the bet on Ollie to win X-Factor and having had to listen to her yabbering on for ages again, and treated myself to coffee and a scone in M and S.
The puppies have been extremely distressed by the comings and goings of these engineers, especially as wherever they go they seem to beep loudly at a pitch that must be excruciating for little dogs - or even big ones I would imagine. Consequently, now that they've gone, the girls are catching up on their beauty sleep! (It isn't the engineers themselves that beep - but the equipment they carry)
We went to Morpeth this morning, It wasn't pleasant! The supermarket was, yet again, full of the old, slow and seriously demented - in fact it was so busy there was gridlock at one point - seriously! However, eventually I managed to escape, having ended up with the cashier who's got the bet on Ollie to win X-Factor and having had to listen to her yabbering on for ages again, and treated myself to coffee and a scone in M and S.
WOW!
I've just watched the goals from last night on SSN. Is it just me , or has Shola piled on the pounds during his time out? He looks really chunky to me!
STILL CONNECTED!!
Miracle! I really expected the connection to be down this morning as that was the previous pattern. It would go off whenever there was any rain and than would be intermittent after that. Just hoping it doesn't take as long to sort out THIS time.
Good morning, anyway! Charles has just left for work and the puppies are missing him already! They watch him leave every morning with sad little faces pressed against the window and make this pathetic little whining noise - then a couple of minutes later they've forgotten all about it and are up to their old tricks again!
They had an extremely quiet day yesterday. In fact I was a bit worried about them as all they seemed to want to do was to sleep. I don't think there's anything wrong with them because they're eating well and, when they ARE awake, they're as active as ever - it's just that they slept for all but about four hours of the day and that is excessive sleeping, even for our two!
We're going shopping this morning - noting exciting, but I must get some more cake boxes for all the cakes I made yesterday!
Good morning, anyway! Charles has just left for work and the puppies are missing him already! They watch him leave every morning with sad little faces pressed against the window and make this pathetic little whining noise - then a couple of minutes later they've forgotten all about it and are up to their old tricks again!
They had an extremely quiet day yesterday. In fact I was a bit worried about them as all they seemed to want to do was to sleep. I don't think there's anything wrong with them because they're eating well and, when they ARE awake, they're as active as ever - it's just that they slept for all but about four hours of the day and that is excessive sleeping, even for our two!
We're going shopping this morning - noting exciting, but I must get some more cake boxes for all the cakes I made yesterday!
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
CONNECTION WINDOW
Just making the most of the undoubtedly brief window of connection to catch up on the blog a bit.
The fault on the line has been reported, but neither of us will be holding our breath waiting for a repair in a hurry.
If there are periods of inactivity on here - that is the reason I'm afraid.
Anyway - there isn't a lot to report today. I've spent most of the time in the kitchen and the puppies have slept and dozed for most of the day. They are however, making up for it now and are winding each other up something chronic! Sean the Sheep is causing most of the problems actually - Lily is tormenting Rose, who
I had a lovely time today making Christmas cupcakes to give as gifts (or to have when we have visitors!) Nice and quick to make and great fun to decorate. I've been in my element!
OH GREAT - NEWCASTLE 2, COVENTRY 0. Shola scored on his return from a lengthy injury in injury time at half time and Nile Ranger came on as a sub and scored!
The fault on the line has been reported, but neither of us will be holding our breath waiting for a repair in a hurry.
If there are periods of inactivity on here - that is the reason I'm afraid.
Anyway - there isn't a lot to report today. I've spent most of the time in the kitchen and the puppies have slept and dozed for most of the day. They are however, making up for it now and are winding each other up something chronic! Sean the Sheep is causing most of the problems actually - Lily is tormenting Rose, who
I had a lovely time today making Christmas cupcakes to give as gifts (or to have when we have visitors!) Nice and quick to make and great fun to decorate. I've been in my element!
OH GREAT - NEWCASTLE 2, COVENTRY 0. Shola scored on his return from a lengthy injury in injury time at half time and Nile Ranger came on as a sub and scored!
IT'S GOING TO BE...
... a really long day if I don't have access to the internet.
I've been chomping at the bit this morning, waiting for a connection. I don't think I'd realised how much time I actually spend on here!
It's SO annoying that we've yet again got a fault on the line. It literally took months to sort it out in the summer, and only then after we threatened to report BT to the ombudsman and Watchdog and to close our account. In total we must have had about a dozen different engineers, each of whom looked at the problem and told us that it wasn't their job and someone else would need to do it!!!
I also got sick and tired of the automated service and eventually managed to find a route to an actual person, who unfortunately got the rough edge of my tongue on more than one occasion, but for the life of me I can't remember how I did that now.
Oh - must go - Gary Barlow's on Breakfast telly!!!
I've been chomping at the bit this morning, waiting for a connection. I don't think I'd realised how much time I actually spend on here!
It's SO annoying that we've yet again got a fault on the line. It literally took months to sort it out in the summer, and only then after we threatened to report BT to the ombudsman and Watchdog and to close our account. In total we must have had about a dozen different engineers, each of whom looked at the problem and told us that it wasn't their job and someone else would need to do it!!!
I also got sick and tired of the automated service and eventually managed to find a route to an actual person, who unfortunately got the rough edge of my tongue on more than one occasion, but for the life of me I can't remember how I did that now.
Oh - must go - Gary Barlow's on Breakfast telly!!!
WARNING!!!!
WE ARE YET AGAIN HAVING PROBLEMS WITH OUR TELEPHONE LINE.
I HAVE JUST MANAGED TO FIND A WINDOW WHEN WE ACTUALLY HAVE A TENTATIVE CONNECTION, ALTHOUGH THERE'S NO KNOWING HOW LONG IT WILL LAST...
...SO IF THERE ARE NO NEW POSTS FROM ME THAT IS THE REASON.
THANK YOU SO MUCH BT - IT LOOKS LIKE THE THREE MONTHS IT TOOK TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEM IN THE SUMMER DIDN'T WORK!
I HAVE JUST MANAGED TO FIND A WINDOW WHEN WE ACTUALLY HAVE A TENTATIVE CONNECTION, ALTHOUGH THERE'S NO KNOWING HOW LONG IT WILL LAST...
...SO IF THERE ARE NO NEW POSTS FROM ME THAT IS THE REASON.
THANK YOU SO MUCH BT - IT LOOKS LIKE THE THREE MONTHS IT TOOK TO RECTIFY THE PROBLEM IN THE SUMMER DIDN'T WORK!
Tuesday, 8 December 2009
NOT MUCH TO DO AT THE MOMENT!
After the rush of activity earlier today, I'm having a cuppa while the puppies have their Kongs. They've just been playing with a cardboard box - we spare no expense you know - at least LILY has been playing with it and Rose has looked on! This is fairly normal behaviour for our two. Lily just launches straight in there, and Rose lets her so that she can be sure it's going to be okay when she joins in!
Lily makes me laugh with the safety gate that separates the kitchen from the puppies' room. If it's not completely latched she is perfectly able to let herself through and just kind of throws herself at it and the momentum carries her though in one smooth movement. Rose, on the other hand, will absolutely NOT attempt to go through the gate even if it IS off the latch!
It's that funny time of the day, when we're waiting for people to get home from work, but it's too early to be thinking about getting a meal and it's dark so we're not keen on going out for a walk, so we're just chillin'!!!
Lily makes me laugh with the safety gate that separates the kitchen from the puppies' room. If it's not completely latched she is perfectly able to let herself through and just kind of throws herself at it and the momentum carries her though in one smooth movement. Rose, on the other hand, will absolutely NOT attempt to go through the gate even if it IS off the latch!
It's that funny time of the day, when we're waiting for people to get home from work, but it's too early to be thinking about getting a meal and it's dark so we're not keen on going out for a walk, so we're just chillin'!!!
BET YOU'RE WONDERING WHERE I AM!
Yes, well, I didn't intend to ice the cake today, BUT...
... I'd marzipanned it yesterday (Mum - if you're reading this, I KNOW you used to let it dry out for days before you iced it, but that's when people used that really yellow marzipan that seeped into the icing. I use white marzipan and it doesn't seep!) - and I'd started making holly and ivy leaves and fir cones, so I just thought I'd make a start and then, of course, I got a bit carried away and managed to finish it. This year we've got gold icing with lustre swirls painted on top and clusters of different sized leaves and cones trailing around it! Not the usual Christmas colours either, but it's good to be different!
The pups have been little cherubs while all this activity has been going on in the kitchen. They kept coming in to check on progress and needed a it of a cuddle when the Kenwood Bad Boy ramped himself up to mix the raspberry cupcakes, but apart from that they've amused themselves quite happily. Rose has lost another tooth this morning and is still dragging Sean the Sheep around with her wherever she goes!
Just going to check the cupcakes. They should be ready about now...
... I'd marzipanned it yesterday (Mum - if you're reading this, I KNOW you used to let it dry out for days before you iced it, but that's when people used that really yellow marzipan that seeped into the icing. I use white marzipan and it doesn't seep!) - and I'd started making holly and ivy leaves and fir cones, so I just thought I'd make a start and then, of course, I got a bit carried away and managed to finish it. This year we've got gold icing with lustre swirls painted on top and clusters of different sized leaves and cones trailing around it! Not the usual Christmas colours either, but it's good to be different!
The pups have been little cherubs while all this activity has been going on in the kitchen. They kept coming in to check on progress and needed a it of a cuddle when the Kenwood Bad Boy ramped himself up to mix the raspberry cupcakes, but apart from that they've amused themselves quite happily. Rose has lost another tooth this morning and is still dragging Sean the Sheep around with her wherever she goes!
Just going to check the cupcakes. They should be ready about now...
ROSE HAS BECOME PERMANENTLY ATTACHED TO...
... Sean the Sheep!
This is a little white (well it WAS white, now it's a sort of mixture of shades of grey) cuddly toy, with a BELL, that was given to the pups when they had been with us for just two weeks. To be honest, they didn't bother much at first, but just recently Rose has taken him everywhere, even making a point of going back to find him if she's inadvertently left him behind. It's almost like a toddlers security blanket! Big softy Rose!
This is a little white (well it WAS white, now it's a sort of mixture of shades of grey) cuddly toy, with a BELL, that was given to the pups when they had been with us for just two weeks. To be honest, they didn't bother much at first, but just recently Rose has taken him everywhere, even making a point of going back to find him if she's inadvertently left him behind. It's almost like a toddlers security blanket! Big softy Rose!
Monday, 7 December 2009
MARABINI'S V GIANNI'S
(Don't know if that's how you spell Marabini's!)
As long as we've lived in Northumberland we have always thought that Gianni's is brilliant. Good food and faultless for atmosphere and service - and very good value too, especially during Happy Hour. When the children were little we often used to take them on a Friday evening, so in a way they've grown up with Gianni's and Antonio.
But recently James has been going to Marabini's in preference, and this evening Charles and his staff went there too. Charles's verdict - 'Marabini's makes Gianni's look like some back street place!' Apparently the food is fantastic, the decor, service and atmosphere are brilliant AND it's even better value than Gianni's.
I feel quite sad in a way. I always thought we'd stay loyal to Antonio - but it looks as though we may be about to change our allegiance! (I bet they don't do the silly thing with the hats when it's your birthday though!)
As long as we've lived in Northumberland we have always thought that Gianni's is brilliant. Good food and faultless for atmosphere and service - and very good value too, especially during Happy Hour. When the children were little we often used to take them on a Friday evening, so in a way they've grown up with Gianni's and Antonio.
But recently James has been going to Marabini's in preference, and this evening Charles and his staff went there too. Charles's verdict - 'Marabini's makes Gianni's look like some back street place!' Apparently the food is fantastic, the decor, service and atmosphere are brilliant AND it's even better value than Gianni's.
I feel quite sad in a way. I always thought we'd stay loyal to Antonio - but it looks as though we may be about to change our allegiance! (I bet they don't do the silly thing with the hats when it's your birthday though!)
DOES ANYONE KNOW...
...how long it takes before the puppies adult teeth start coming through? The rate Rose is losing her baby teeth she's going to be gumming everything instead of chewing!!!
MAD PUPS
Usually, the puppies have their mad time in the afternoon, but today they've decided to go for morning madness as well!
This involves chasing each other around and generally going bonkers at what appears to be a million miles an hour. How they don't actually crash into stuff I really don't know. Anyway, it would appear that the back garden is the perfect location for such manic activity. They've chased each other round and round, leaving me completely dizzy in the process, and appear to have exhausted themselves into the bargain!
I've finally managed to get them inside and they are having a well deserved rest thank goodness!!
This involves chasing each other around and generally going bonkers at what appears to be a million miles an hour. How they don't actually crash into stuff I really don't know. Anyway, it would appear that the back garden is the perfect location for such manic activity. They've chased each other round and round, leaving me completely dizzy in the process, and appear to have exhausted themselves into the bargain!
I've finally managed to get them inside and they are having a well deserved rest thank goodness!!
MISERABLE MORNING!
Only in terms of the weather - everything else seems fine!
Charles has gone off to work and won't be back till late as he's going for a meal with some of his staff.
The pups and I are trying to decide how we're going to spend our day. We will have to go to Morpeth this morning, but other than that have no real plans, although I might marzipan the Christmas cake this afternoon.
I've just had a flashback to a Christmas many years ago, when I had spent DAYS decorating two cakes. One was a fairly formal design and the other was a fun cake. The fun one was covered with lots of tiny snowmen playing games, delivering presents, going Christmas shopping, throwing snowballs, skating and tobogganing and in the centre was Father Christmas. It was a little work of art! All the snowmen (and women) were dressed differently with stripy scarves and bobble hats (the ladies even had their handbags!) and all had expressive little faces, with tiny little 'tangerine' noses. I was really please with the result!
At the time, I had nowhere to store this particular cake, and ended up putting it on top of the kitchen cupboards for safekeeping. It was covered loosely with a lid, but I made the huge mistake of not making sure that it was sealed tightly.
Then Charles decided to make chips in the deep fat fryer. (Please note we hardly ever use this bit of kit now - in fact it lives in the garden shed - and chips are a rare treat in this house!) He carefully positioned the fryer on the worktop, directly under the cake and switched it on. Of course these things produce steam, which is exactly what happened. The steam permeated the cake container and caused all the little snow people to droop sadly. Their eyes began to run so that they all looked as if they were crying as the slumped over, ending up like little mounds of melted snow.
You can imagine my horror! The cake was past repair and I think I ended up scooping all the icing off and starting again with something a little less time consuming!
Anyway - I don't bother with a novelty cake any more, I think that kind of put me off a bit!!!
Charles has gone off to work and won't be back till late as he's going for a meal with some of his staff.
The pups and I are trying to decide how we're going to spend our day. We will have to go to Morpeth this morning, but other than that have no real plans, although I might marzipan the Christmas cake this afternoon.
I've just had a flashback to a Christmas many years ago, when I had spent DAYS decorating two cakes. One was a fairly formal design and the other was a fun cake. The fun one was covered with lots of tiny snowmen playing games, delivering presents, going Christmas shopping, throwing snowballs, skating and tobogganing and in the centre was Father Christmas. It was a little work of art! All the snowmen (and women) were dressed differently with stripy scarves and bobble hats (the ladies even had their handbags!) and all had expressive little faces, with tiny little 'tangerine' noses. I was really please with the result!
At the time, I had nowhere to store this particular cake, and ended up putting it on top of the kitchen cupboards for safekeeping. It was covered loosely with a lid, but I made the huge mistake of not making sure that it was sealed tightly.
Then Charles decided to make chips in the deep fat fryer. (Please note we hardly ever use this bit of kit now - in fact it lives in the garden shed - and chips are a rare treat in this house!) He carefully positioned the fryer on the worktop, directly under the cake and switched it on. Of course these things produce steam, which is exactly what happened. The steam permeated the cake container and caused all the little snow people to droop sadly. Their eyes began to run so that they all looked as if they were crying as the slumped over, ending up like little mounds of melted snow.
You can imagine my horror! The cake was past repair and I think I ended up scooping all the icing off and starting again with something a little less time consuming!
Anyway - I don't bother with a novelty cake any more, I think that kind of put me off a bit!!!
Sunday, 6 December 2009
SETTLING DOWN NOW
The puppies have had a lovely day today (apart from losing lots of baby teeth). They are becoming such lovely, affectionate pets and are fantastic company (they both sat with me and watched X-Factor - and I swear they were as thrilled as I was when Joe got through!)
Now they're getting ready for bedtime. They've finished playing for the night and are just going through the process of making themselves comfortable and settled. I love it when I say to them, 'Come on, sleepy time now' and they get straight into their little bed.
It's amazing how quickly they are growing up. They certainly won't be puppies for long!
Now they're getting ready for bedtime. They've finished playing for the night and are just going through the process of making themselves comfortable and settled. I love it when I say to them, 'Come on, sleepy time now' and they get straight into their little bed.
It's amazing how quickly they are growing up. They certainly won't be puppies for long!
COME ON JOE!!!
I voted for him again this week.
He was fantastic last night.
Come on Joe - you've GOT to get through to the final!
He was fantastic last night.
Come on Joe - you've GOT to get through to the final!
YOU'LL NEVER GUESS...
After all the secrecy and hiding the little Christmas kennel away from the puppies...
.... I HAVE JUST FOUND CHARLES SHOWING IT TO LILY AND LETTING HER HAVE A LITTLE TRY IN IT.
AAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!
There'll be no surprises in THIS house on Christmas Day, will there Charles!
.... I HAVE JUST FOUND CHARLES SHOWING IT TO LILY AND LETTING HER HAVE A LITTLE TRY IN IT.
AAAAAAAAAAAAARGH!
There'll be no surprises in THIS house on Christmas Day, will there Charles!
BACK AGAIN!
Well, that was by far the best walk we've had with the girls. They didn't pull and just trotted along next to us quite happily - even when they came face to face (literally 2 metres away) with a rabbit. I put this down to two things. 1) They were actually really tired and we had disturbed their sleep in order to get them out before it went dark, and 2) We put their harnesses on again. We haven't used these for ages - mostly because I can't work out how to do it - but they DO seem to prevent pulling. Anyway we all had a really good walk and the pups are now fast asleep again!
So, back to the previous post...
...where was I?
Oh yes! We left Heighley Gate feeling a bit fractious. We knew we had to go to the tip in Morpeth (to take my old mixer and all the packaging from the Kenwood beast) and had planned to go from there to the new Asda in Ashington, because Charles had seen some more of these wretched potted trees there the other day. I have to say I wasn't keen at all, and he obviously picked up on this which would be why he announced that he would just take us straight home then! Never a good sign!
However, we DID go to Asda and I have to say I was very impressed. What an amazing superstore. That's one in the eye for Morrisons in Morpeth I would think.
We quickly (well...I) dismissed the potted trees and ended up finding something VERY different (no, not a palm tree, although Charles was considering a bay tree at one point!) but an artificial (yes I know what I said earlier) tree that is a perfect match for our lounge. In other words it isn't green! Nor is it black or white! If I tell you that our room is predominantly cream and duck egg blue, I'll let you guess which one it matches! As Charles said, if we're going for faux we might as well go all the way!! But the thing is, it really isn't going to look naff at all (I hope!) No seriously, it's going to look really good! (and its a six footer AND it's already got lights on!)
Having made that decision we did a bit of other shopping. I found an incredible pair of ankle boots at a ridiculous price, but so comfy I haven't taken them off yet. (Well actually I did when we took the girls out because I didn't want to get them muddy down Villa Lane - good name for a lane, eh Richard!) We bought every kind of puppy treat you can imagine, did a little bit of food shopping and left for home quite happy with our purchases.
When we got home, James came round for lunch and afterwards I had a little excursion into the loft to get down some Christmas decorations for him to take to his flat. It also gave me a chance to have a rummage around up there - in fact, I should really go up there more often, it's amazing what you find! At one point you wouldn't have got me up there for love nor money, but we had it all boarded out last year and have a proper pull down ladder that actually feels quite secure. Also we made a point of clearing out all the junk and organising the space really well when we were having the work done, so it's actually quite a nice place to be!
After that I wrapped all the presents for Charles's staff and he put together The White House! Don't tell the puppies because it's one of their Christmas presents - but it really is luxurious accommodation for dogs, with a designer touch and more than a hint of cuteness! It has been sitting in it's box since last week, when Helen was doing the dance of the seven veils to prevent the pups getting a sneak peak at it and thus spoiling one of their Christmas surprises!!! Even the delivery man was seen to be rolling his eyes!!!!
Charles has been looking for ice cream attachments, but the bad news is (please note Richard) that we won't be able to get one before Christmas! So, that's that then.
So, back to the previous post...
...where was I?
Oh yes! We left Heighley Gate feeling a bit fractious. We knew we had to go to the tip in Morpeth (to take my old mixer and all the packaging from the Kenwood beast) and had planned to go from there to the new Asda in Ashington, because Charles had seen some more of these wretched potted trees there the other day. I have to say I wasn't keen at all, and he obviously picked up on this which would be why he announced that he would just take us straight home then! Never a good sign!
However, we DID go to Asda and I have to say I was very impressed. What an amazing superstore. That's one in the eye for Morrisons in Morpeth I would think.
We quickly (well...I) dismissed the potted trees and ended up finding something VERY different (no, not a palm tree, although Charles was considering a bay tree at one point!) but an artificial (yes I know what I said earlier) tree that is a perfect match for our lounge. In other words it isn't green! Nor is it black or white! If I tell you that our room is predominantly cream and duck egg blue, I'll let you guess which one it matches! As Charles said, if we're going for faux we might as well go all the way!! But the thing is, it really isn't going to look naff at all (I hope!) No seriously, it's going to look really good! (and its a six footer AND it's already got lights on!)
Having made that decision we did a bit of other shopping. I found an incredible pair of ankle boots at a ridiculous price, but so comfy I haven't taken them off yet. (Well actually I did when we took the girls out because I didn't want to get them muddy down Villa Lane - good name for a lane, eh Richard!) We bought every kind of puppy treat you can imagine, did a little bit of food shopping and left for home quite happy with our purchases.
When we got home, James came round for lunch and afterwards I had a little excursion into the loft to get down some Christmas decorations for him to take to his flat. It also gave me a chance to have a rummage around up there - in fact, I should really go up there more often, it's amazing what you find! At one point you wouldn't have got me up there for love nor money, but we had it all boarded out last year and have a proper pull down ladder that actually feels quite secure. Also we made a point of clearing out all the junk and organising the space really well when we were having the work done, so it's actually quite a nice place to be!
After that I wrapped all the presents for Charles's staff and he put together The White House! Don't tell the puppies because it's one of their Christmas presents - but it really is luxurious accommodation for dogs, with a designer touch and more than a hint of cuteness! It has been sitting in it's box since last week, when Helen was doing the dance of the seven veils to prevent the pups getting a sneak peak at it and thus spoiling one of their Christmas surprises!!! Even the delivery man was seen to be rolling his eyes!!!!
Charles has been looking for ice cream attachments, but the bad news is (please note Richard) that we won't be able to get one before Christmas! So, that's that then.
A BIT DIFFERENT!!
Phew! It's been a pretty busy day so far. The puppies are lying prostrate on the floor from sheer exhaustion (although I don't really know why THEY'RE so tired to be honest) and Charles and I are hoping to have a few minutes of peace and quiet before we, hopefully, take them out for a walk in what remains of the daylight.
We set off in search of a potted Christmas tree this morning, calling first at Heighley Gate. Here we found a large selection of potted trees that would look very much at home in the cottage of the Seven Dwarves. Not only were they diminutive, but apparently, they have only been PLACED in a pot, not GROWN in one - so they will most probably die after Christmas anyway. Bit naughty that I thought, although, fair do's, it was one of the staff who told us about it.
We had a look at the artificial trees...
...oops - got to go, we're going out for a walk RIGHT NOW apparently!
Be back soon!
We set off in search of a potted Christmas tree this morning, calling first at Heighley Gate. Here we found a large selection of potted trees that would look very much at home in the cottage of the Seven Dwarves. Not only were they diminutive, but apparently, they have only been PLACED in a pot, not GROWN in one - so they will most probably die after Christmas anyway. Bit naughty that I thought, although, fair do's, it was one of the staff who told us about it.
We had a look at the artificial trees...
...oops - got to go, we're going out for a walk RIGHT NOW apparently!
Be back soon!
THIS MORNING...
... we're going out to look at Christmas trees.
This is likely to be stressful!
Charles has his mind set on a rooted, potted tree. I am THINKING about this, but don't want one if it is just a puny little thing - which it probably will be because I've never seen any 6 foot trees in pots.
We've had a look at the space in the lounge - and admittedly it isn't great - so we don't want one like last year which basically filled the sunroom so much that you couldn't get in there. The reason for this is that we chose one that was growing in a little forest! No we didn't go out in the dead of night with our torches and a saw! - it was quite legitimate, from a farm just outside our village. In fact it was the second year we had done this and probably should have learned from the previous year! You see, when you pick your tree from a forest, even if you chose the smallest, it tends to be HUGE when you get it into your house. It's like when you go and buy a new sofa. In the vastness of the showroom they all look quite small and neat, but in your modest living room they suddenly swell to gigantic proportions. Well, that's exactly what happened with these trees. Out in the open, they looked relatively small, but once we got them home it was a different story.
So, to get back to the point - even I don't want a monster tree, but nor do I want a pathetic excuse for one either.
I can feel a tense morning coming on. Obviously we will only buy one if a) it is rooted and b) it is big enough - because if we get a cut tree today it'll be dead by Christmas.
Charles has even mentioned artificial trees this morning. Clearly he has forgotten that we did have one a few years ago - a very realistic looking one - but we gave it away to someone when we decided that only real would do!!!
Actually, some of the new artificial trees are very good, apart from those stupid upside down ones and the very skinny ones that are designed to fit in tiny spaces. Some even come pre-lit, which is a great idea I think. But you can never get away from the naffness of the stand and the fact that it just doesn't have that lovely smell. Perhaps manufacturers ought to consider these aspects in future - surely they could make trees that smell of pine, or maybe you'd end up with something that smells like loo cleaner, so perhaps it's not a good idea.
Anyway, I'm rambling, better go...
This is likely to be stressful!
Charles has his mind set on a rooted, potted tree. I am THINKING about this, but don't want one if it is just a puny little thing - which it probably will be because I've never seen any 6 foot trees in pots.
We've had a look at the space in the lounge - and admittedly it isn't great - so we don't want one like last year which basically filled the sunroom so much that you couldn't get in there. The reason for this is that we chose one that was growing in a little forest! No we didn't go out in the dead of night with our torches and a saw! - it was quite legitimate, from a farm just outside our village. In fact it was the second year we had done this and probably should have learned from the previous year! You see, when you pick your tree from a forest, even if you chose the smallest, it tends to be HUGE when you get it into your house. It's like when you go and buy a new sofa. In the vastness of the showroom they all look quite small and neat, but in your modest living room they suddenly swell to gigantic proportions. Well, that's exactly what happened with these trees. Out in the open, they looked relatively small, but once we got them home it was a different story.
So, to get back to the point - even I don't want a monster tree, but nor do I want a pathetic excuse for one either.
I can feel a tense morning coming on. Obviously we will only buy one if a) it is rooted and b) it is big enough - because if we get a cut tree today it'll be dead by Christmas.
Charles has even mentioned artificial trees this morning. Clearly he has forgotten that we did have one a few years ago - a very realistic looking one - but we gave it away to someone when we decided that only real would do!!!
Actually, some of the new artificial trees are very good, apart from those stupid upside down ones and the very skinny ones that are designed to fit in tiny spaces. Some even come pre-lit, which is a great idea I think. But you can never get away from the naffness of the stand and the fact that it just doesn't have that lovely smell. Perhaps manufacturers ought to consider these aspects in future - surely they could make trees that smell of pine, or maybe you'd end up with something that smells like loo cleaner, so perhaps it's not a good idea.
Anyway, I'm rambling, better go...
RICHARD: DON'T GET TOO EXCITED...
...about the ice cream maker!!!
It wouldn't be a Magimix anyway. I want to get the ice cream attachment for my Kenwood Bad Boy! BUT probably won't have saved up enough by the time you arrive next week!!!
It wouldn't be a Magimix anyway. I want to get the ice cream attachment for my Kenwood Bad Boy! BUT probably won't have saved up enough by the time you arrive next week!!!
Saturday, 5 December 2009
TOON WIN
Still top of the league, so that's good!
Wasn't really able to follow it apart from on Soccer Saturday and Newcastle United Mad. (Does anyone else think Jeff Stelling is ACE?)
Anyway, while NUFC were busy winning, I was busy fending off more flaming wasps! Charles had to deal with one before he left and then another two buzzed into the kitchen. Why are they still around? Don't they know it's December? Is this a sign of global warming? And despite Dannymatt trying to make me feel guilty the last time I confessed to killing the little blighters - yes I did spray them as viciously as possible and squashed them to smithereens before putting them down the loo, flushing it and pouring bleach down for good measure!
Wasn't really able to follow it apart from on Soccer Saturday and Newcastle United Mad. (Does anyone else think Jeff Stelling is ACE?)
Anyway, while NUFC were busy winning, I was busy fending off more flaming wasps! Charles had to deal with one before he left and then another two buzzed into the kitchen. Why are they still around? Don't they know it's December? Is this a sign of global warming? And despite Dannymatt trying to make me feel guilty the last time I confessed to killing the little blighters - yes I did spray them as viciously as possible and squashed them to smithereens before putting them down the loo, flushing it and pouring bleach down for good measure!
I HAVEN'T POSTED THIS MORNING BECAUSE...
I've been playing with my new toy!!!
It is a serious bit of kitchen kit and I am very impressed. I've got a couple of tropical fruit loaves in the oven at the moment, mixed together in seconds.
What I really want now though is the ice cream maker attachment. I love the thought of being able to make ice cream in 20 minutes and it would avoid having loads of Ben and Jerrys and Haagen Daz clogging up the freezer if you just made what you need as you need it.
As you've probably realised by now, I haven't gone to the match. Yes. I'm disappointed in a way, but on the other hand I can carry on experimenting with The Kenwood Beast!!
It is a serious bit of kitchen kit and I am very impressed. I've got a couple of tropical fruit loaves in the oven at the moment, mixed together in seconds.
What I really want now though is the ice cream maker attachment. I love the thought of being able to make ice cream in 20 minutes and it would avoid having loads of Ben and Jerrys and Haagen Daz clogging up the freezer if you just made what you need as you need it.
As you've probably realised by now, I haven't gone to the match. Yes. I'm disappointed in a way, but on the other hand I can carry on experimenting with The Kenwood Beast!!
Friday, 4 December 2009
JUST OUT OF INTEREST...
... has anyone been watching this series of 'The Restaurant'?
If so, are you, like me, totally at a loss to understand how ANY of the contestants can possibly merit going into business with Raymond and co?
I have been left totally speechless by the lack of organisation, imagination and skill and by the sheer arrogance of some of the contestants. Honestly, they are all cringeworthy and clueless. If I was Raymond last night I would have shut them ALL down and cut my losses. He could have filled the rest of the series with guidance about running a successful restaurant.
If so, are you, like me, totally at a loss to understand how ANY of the contestants can possibly merit going into business with Raymond and co?
I have been left totally speechless by the lack of organisation, imagination and skill and by the sheer arrogance of some of the contestants. Honestly, they are all cringeworthy and clueless. If I was Raymond last night I would have shut them ALL down and cut my losses. He could have filled the rest of the series with guidance about running a successful restaurant.
IT'S HERE, BUT...
...the damn box is so heavy and huge that I can't actually unpack it!
Of course I'm talking about the Kenwood, which arrived ON A TROLLEY this afternoon and after much puffing and blowing, the delivery man staggered across the kitchen and managed to get it onto the top of the range (at MY request admittedly), only now I can't lift it down to get a look inside, nor can I use the hotplates to start getting a meal ready!!!!
So, hurry home Charles, cos I can't wait to get into that box! (which I probably could do quite literally!)
I've just thought - it'll make a fabulous playhouse for the puppies! They haven't had a good strong cardboard box for ages, since the days when Rose would have been petrified by it. I wonder how she'll react this time?
To kill the time, I'm waiting for the World Cup draw, which should take place any minute.
I've had a chat with James and he is, obviously, more than happy to go to the football tomorrow in my place. I'll see what Charles says when he gets home - AFTER he's helped me with the box that is!
Of course I'm talking about the Kenwood, which arrived ON A TROLLEY this afternoon and after much puffing and blowing, the delivery man staggered across the kitchen and managed to get it onto the top of the range (at MY request admittedly), only now I can't lift it down to get a look inside, nor can I use the hotplates to start getting a meal ready!!!!
So, hurry home Charles, cos I can't wait to get into that box! (which I probably could do quite literally!)
I've just thought - it'll make a fabulous playhouse for the puppies! They haven't had a good strong cardboard box for ages, since the days when Rose would have been petrified by it. I wonder how she'll react this time?
To kill the time, I'm waiting for the World Cup draw, which should take place any minute.
I've had a chat with James and he is, obviously, more than happy to go to the football tomorrow in my place. I'll see what Charles says when he gets home - AFTER he's helped me with the box that is!
I'VE JUST REALISED
that it's Christmas Day three weeks today!
That means only two weeks of term left - all those Christmas productions and Carol Services - I almost miss it!
Actually, I never really feel Christmassy until I've been to a Carol Service and love having the carols on the TV on Christmas morning when I'm preparing the lunch.
When we were kids, our Christmas Day revolved around church - well it would as our dad was a Methodist minister. We would have our Father Christmas presents (if we'd been good) and then head off to church and would wait until after lunch to have our family presents.
These days, we don't go to church on Christmas Day and, even though our kids are grown up, I reckon Santa might still come, so we'll undoubtedly still do the peering round the sitting room door and asking excitedly, 'Has he been?' After breakfast we will probably have James's birthday and later in the morning we'll do family presents. (Or maybe the other way round!)
It makes it a very busy, but special day having a Christmas birthday (not as busy as the day he was actually born however!!!) And it has just struck me while writing this that he is actually going to be 25 this year - quarter of a century - gosh how old do I feel now?
If you asked James which of his birthdays has been the best so far, I have no doubt that he will say his 21st when we and Richard's family all went to New York for the holiday. What a magical city to be in for Christmas...
...but I'm sure Longfram will be just as magical this year Jim!!
That means only two weeks of term left - all those Christmas productions and Carol Services - I almost miss it!
Actually, I never really feel Christmassy until I've been to a Carol Service and love having the carols on the TV on Christmas morning when I'm preparing the lunch.
When we were kids, our Christmas Day revolved around church - well it would as our dad was a Methodist minister. We would have our Father Christmas presents (if we'd been good) and then head off to church and would wait until after lunch to have our family presents.
These days, we don't go to church on Christmas Day and, even though our kids are grown up, I reckon Santa might still come, so we'll undoubtedly still do the peering round the sitting room door and asking excitedly, 'Has he been?' After breakfast we will probably have James's birthday and later in the morning we'll do family presents. (Or maybe the other way round!)
It makes it a very busy, but special day having a Christmas birthday (not as busy as the day he was actually born however!!!) And it has just struck me while writing this that he is actually going to be 25 this year - quarter of a century - gosh how old do I feel now?
If you asked James which of his birthdays has been the best so far, I have no doubt that he will say his 21st when we and Richard's family all went to New York for the holiday. What a magical city to be in for Christmas...
...but I'm sure Longfram will be just as magical this year Jim!!
I'M TRYING TO DECIDE...
...if I should go to the match tomorrow, or if I should see if James wants my ticket again. I would really like to go as I didn't go last week, but it would save James having to come and look after the puppies.
I know he doesn't mind looking after them - but it seems a bit of a shame when it's his weekend, so I think I'll see what he wants to do and I'll be happy either way!
I know he doesn't mind looking after them - but it seems a bit of a shame when it's his weekend, so I think I'll see what he wants to do and I'll be happy either way!
BACK TO SLEEP AGAIN
Well, all that hyper activity first thing this morning (from the puppies - not ME) has clearly taken it's toll.
They've been asleep for ages, have woken up for a quick wee and a cuddle with Mum - and are now back in their bed, cuddled up together with a couple of chewy bones just in case they wake up with an attack of the munchies!
While they've been asleep I've finished the cakes, and have been outside at the back of the house trying to make sure it's completely puppy proof. I think it is secure enough and there are no gaps through which they could squeeze. The problem is that I have loads of pots of winter pansies out there - and nowhere else to put them. I know from past experience that my pups like nothing more than a good dig in the plant pots, so I am a trifle concerned about them. I'm going to wait until tomorrow morning before trying them out there, so that Charles is around to help out should they find an escape route, but I do think it will give them a lot more play space with the added advantage of me being able to keep an eye on them from the kitchen window.
They've been asleep for ages, have woken up for a quick wee and a cuddle with Mum - and are now back in their bed, cuddled up together with a couple of chewy bones just in case they wake up with an attack of the munchies!
While they've been asleep I've finished the cakes, and have been outside at the back of the house trying to make sure it's completely puppy proof. I think it is secure enough and there are no gaps through which they could squeeze. The problem is that I have loads of pots of winter pansies out there - and nowhere else to put them. I know from past experience that my pups like nothing more than a good dig in the plant pots, so I am a trifle concerned about them. I'm going to wait until tomorrow morning before trying them out there, so that Charles is around to help out should they find an escape route, but I do think it will give them a lot more play space with the added advantage of me being able to keep an eye on them from the kitchen window.
GENTLE SNORES
That's what I can hear at the moment. The girls are snoozing - and snoring - rousing themselves occasionally to check the whereabouts of their mum and to see what's going on outside - then going back to the serious business of catching up on their beauty sleep. Ah, it's gone quiet now. That's better!!!
I, on the other hand, am busy making another batch of cupcakes. I COULD have waited in anxious anticipation for the arrival of the Kenwood Titanium, but then I thought that it MIGHT not arrive at all today, so decided to carry on regardless. I'm playing around with Christmas cupcake designs - can't decide whether to go for traditional seasonal colours, or go for the sophisticated white, snowy look. Probably the latter - or maybe a selection of both.
Also, the cakes themselves could either be mini fruit cakes, chocolate or simple sponge (with different fillings of course). The problem with all this experimenting is that there are a lot of practice cakes to eat up, although I could freeze batches I suppose (without the frosting). Maybe I'll do that, although I'll need to clear some space in the freezer first!
Oh, the snoring's started up again!
I, on the other hand, am busy making another batch of cupcakes. I COULD have waited in anxious anticipation for the arrival of the Kenwood Titanium, but then I thought that it MIGHT not arrive at all today, so decided to carry on regardless. I'm playing around with Christmas cupcake designs - can't decide whether to go for traditional seasonal colours, or go for the sophisticated white, snowy look. Probably the latter - or maybe a selection of both.
Also, the cakes themselves could either be mini fruit cakes, chocolate or simple sponge (with different fillings of course). The problem with all this experimenting is that there are a lot of practice cakes to eat up, although I could freeze batches I suppose (without the frosting). Maybe I'll do that, although I'll need to clear some space in the freezer first!
Oh, the snoring's started up again!
GOOD MORNING JAMES
Hi Son!
This is my third post of the day - and it's just gone 8.30!
I don't want you moaning about lack of posts now, do I?
I don't know what's got into Lily and Rose this morning, but they're absolutely hyper!!!! In fact I'm lucky I'm still standing (well, obviously I'm NOT standing at the moment because I sit down to type, although that's not to say that I couldn't type standing up if I had to) because they've been chasing round my feet at a million miles an hour ever since Charles left for work.
Now they're attacking the mop again. This is one of their favourite games. One grabs the cleaning end and tugs quite gently to begin with until it falls onto the floor with a resounding crash that makes both puppies jump, then the other pup attacks the handle end and, if they really coordinate themselves they can then run round and round in a big mop sized circle. Actually this could be patented and made into the ultimate puppy exercise machine. It could be tarted up so that it looked less like a mop and had more puppy appeal, perhaps one end could be a bone and the other could resemble a chicken or a rabbit (not that I'm in any way suggesting that puppies should chase chickens and rabbits, it's just that they like eating them - out of a tin that is - and clearly not WHOLE chickens and rabbits, just chopped up bits in jelly). The mid point could be fixed, allowing the handle to rotate and puppies could amuse themselves for hours, just chasing round and round in pursuit of their prey.
I think I'll have a word with Richard to see if he can put his design skills to use here. We could be on to a nice little earner!!!
This is my third post of the day - and it's just gone 8.30!
I don't want you moaning about lack of posts now, do I?
I don't know what's got into Lily and Rose this morning, but they're absolutely hyper!!!! In fact I'm lucky I'm still standing (well, obviously I'm NOT standing at the moment because I sit down to type, although that's not to say that I couldn't type standing up if I had to) because they've been chasing round my feet at a million miles an hour ever since Charles left for work.
Now they're attacking the mop again. This is one of their favourite games. One grabs the cleaning end and tugs quite gently to begin with until it falls onto the floor with a resounding crash that makes both puppies jump, then the other pup attacks the handle end and, if they really coordinate themselves they can then run round and round in a big mop sized circle. Actually this could be patented and made into the ultimate puppy exercise machine. It could be tarted up so that it looked less like a mop and had more puppy appeal, perhaps one end could be a bone and the other could resemble a chicken or a rabbit (not that I'm in any way suggesting that puppies should chase chickens and rabbits, it's just that they like eating them - out of a tin that is - and clearly not WHOLE chickens and rabbits, just chopped up bits in jelly). The mid point could be fixed, allowing the handle to rotate and puppies could amuse themselves for hours, just chasing round and round in pursuit of their prey.
I think I'll have a word with Richard to see if he can put his design skills to use here. We could be on to a nice little earner!!!
OH NO!!!!
When I'm writing my posts and publishing them, I usually have a quick look on the blog itself to check that I haven't made any glaring spelling boo-boos - and when I checked the last one a pop-up advert appeared from nowhere for...
...PRESSURE COOKERS!!!!
How did THAT get there?
Is it the PCP - the Pressure Cooker Police? Am I now marked as a potential pressure cooker purchaser and will I be hounded in the same way as Dannymatt was hounded by his pressure weights?
Oh God - the internet is a dangerous thing!
...PRESSURE COOKERS!!!!
How did THAT get there?
Is it the PCP - the Pressure Cooker Police? Am I now marked as a potential pressure cooker purchaser and will I be hounded in the same way as Dannymatt was hounded by his pressure weights?
Oh God - the internet is a dangerous thing!
DANNYMATT
Wow - you're on form today aren't you - or was it last night?
Such vivid memories of the pressure cooker! I wonder if everyone of 'a certain age' has similar ones.
I agree that everything used to end up tasting the same - and was invariably cooked to a pulp, but like I said yesterday, I could never get past the hiss; it was the element of potential life endangerment that really got to me.
I think I feel the same way about pressure cookers as I did about the Kielder Reservoir!
I vividly recall going for a family day out to the Kielder area, before Kielder Water existed. (I think all five of us went in Dad's mini traveller, with him smoking his pipe and us kids feeling sick in the back.) Anyway, almost as soon as we got to the valley, Dad announced that all of this area was going to be flooded and everyone had had to be moved from their homes and I can remember thinking with panic, 'Then why have you brought us here. We're going to die. Get us out of here before they turn the taps on!' I was absolutely petrified and convinced that it was going to happen there and then. No amount of reassurance would put my mind at rest. Even today, when anyone mentions Kielder Water, that is my first thought.
So, on that premise: if when I think about pressure cookers I can only recall the terror of the hissing steam and the mushy end product, maybe I'll not bother getting one after all. (I never did want to make marmalade anyway!!)
Such vivid memories of the pressure cooker! I wonder if everyone of 'a certain age' has similar ones.
I agree that everything used to end up tasting the same - and was invariably cooked to a pulp, but like I said yesterday, I could never get past the hiss; it was the element of potential life endangerment that really got to me.
I think I feel the same way about pressure cookers as I did about the Kielder Reservoir!
I vividly recall going for a family day out to the Kielder area, before Kielder Water existed. (I think all five of us went in Dad's mini traveller, with him smoking his pipe and us kids feeling sick in the back.) Anyway, almost as soon as we got to the valley, Dad announced that all of this area was going to be flooded and everyone had had to be moved from their homes and I can remember thinking with panic, 'Then why have you brought us here. We're going to die. Get us out of here before they turn the taps on!' I was absolutely petrified and convinced that it was going to happen there and then. No amount of reassurance would put my mind at rest. Even today, when anyone mentions Kielder Water, that is my first thought.
So, on that premise: if when I think about pressure cookers I can only recall the terror of the hissing steam and the mushy end product, maybe I'll not bother getting one after all. (I never did want to make marmalade anyway!!)
Thursday, 3 December 2009
WHAT I WANT TO KNOW IS...
... where do all the people who go on 'Escape to the Country' get all their money from and why does nobody ever want to escape to the North-East?
Similarly, why does Grazia magazine go 'style-hunting' (looking for fashionably cool girls to photograph) in all the major UK cities - APART FROM NEWCASTLE?
Similarly, why does Grazia magazine go 'style-hunting' (looking for fashionably cool girls to photograph) in all the major UK cities - APART FROM NEWCASTLE?
HAS ANYONE...
... ever used a pressure cooker?
I only ask because I have considered getting one, but I'm kind of frightened by them, but today I overheard a conversation between to women who obviously use theirs a lot - even for making things like jam and marmalade.
My only experience of them is the one my mum used to have that had lots of complicated weights and made a scary hissing noise. I haven't a clue about how you use one, so if anyone has any advice they can pass on, I'd love to hear it.
(If pressure cooking significantly cuts down the amount of energy one uses, Charles will be rushing out to buy one before you can say beef in red wine!!)
I only ask because I have considered getting one, but I'm kind of frightened by them, but today I overheard a conversation between to women who obviously use theirs a lot - even for making things like jam and marmalade.
My only experience of them is the one my mum used to have that had lots of complicated weights and made a scary hissing noise. I haven't a clue about how you use one, so if anyone has any advice they can pass on, I'd love to hear it.
(If pressure cooking significantly cuts down the amount of energy one uses, Charles will be rushing out to buy one before you can say beef in red wine!!)
ICED FONDANTS...
...are quite fiddly to make...
...and not easy to concentrate on when there are two puppies round your feet!!!
Also, I have realised that they're not something that can be produced when there's only a half hour window because you need to make the genoese sponge, let it cool (outside in an emergency!), cut it into shapes, top each one with buttercream (note to self: using the star nozzle does NOT give a desirable finish) then smother with fondant icing and decorate. Unfortunately, the paper cases I've got are the wrong size, I need some that are slightly larger for the next batch!
I've just had James on the phone. He phones most days, so that's not unusual, but today he was complaining about the lack of posts on the blog really. He's right, of course, there have been fewer recently, but now that I'm Mrs Smug and have done all the stuff I need to do for Christmas I shall have lots of time to catch up on my posts again!
...and not easy to concentrate on when there are two puppies round your feet!!!
Also, I have realised that they're not something that can be produced when there's only a half hour window because you need to make the genoese sponge, let it cool (outside in an emergency!), cut it into shapes, top each one with buttercream (note to self: using the star nozzle does NOT give a desirable finish) then smother with fondant icing and decorate. Unfortunately, the paper cases I've got are the wrong size, I need some that are slightly larger for the next batch!
I've just had James on the phone. He phones most days, so that's not unusual, but today he was complaining about the lack of posts on the blog really. He's right, of course, there have been fewer recently, but now that I'm Mrs Smug and have done all the stuff I need to do for Christmas I shall have lots of time to catch up on my posts again!
GUESS WHO'S...
FINISHED HER CHRISTMAS SHOPPING
AND WRAPPED EVERYTHING UP!!!
THAT WOULD BE ME!
(JAMES: IF YOU'RE READING THIS I'M NOT GOING TO TELL YOU WHERE WE'VE BEEN THIS MORNING!!!)
AND WRAPPED EVERYTHING UP!!!
THAT WOULD BE ME!
(JAMES: IF YOU'RE READING THIS I'M NOT GOING TO TELL YOU WHERE WE'VE BEEN THIS MORNING!!!)
Wednesday, 2 December 2009
WHAT'S SPOOKING THE PUPPIES TONIGHT?
I don't know what they can hear, but something is really unsettling them. I keep thinking they've gone to sleep for the night and then they're up at the window growling and barking. I can't hear or see anything that could be the cause of this.
They're actually past themselves with tiredness, so maybe they've just got to that point where they're too tired to go to sleep - if you know what I mean!
They're actually past themselves with tiredness, so maybe they've just got to that point where they're too tired to go to sleep - if you know what I mean!
TESCO CHRISTMAS DELIVERY DATES
If, like me, you order your Christmas food shopping from Tesco, you need to book your delivery slot RIGHT NOW!
At 00.01am you will be able to book a slot on Wednesday 23rd, which I am guessing will be the preferred date for most people, but, I know from experience, that you need to sit with your finger poised at midnight to ensure you get the slot you want.
Because I'm not getting absolutely everything from Tesco, I have booked a slot on the Tuesday - but they are being snapped up rapidly, so don't delay.
Don't say I didn't warn you!
At 00.01am you will be able to book a slot on Wednesday 23rd, which I am guessing will be the preferred date for most people, but, I know from experience, that you need to sit with your finger poised at midnight to ensure you get the slot you want.
Because I'm not getting absolutely everything from Tesco, I have booked a slot on the Tuesday - but they are being snapped up rapidly, so don't delay.
Don't say I didn't warn you!
4PM
is KONG time!
I find that most days the pups are at their most fractious (with each other) at about 4 o'clock, so we seem to have got into the 4pm Kong routine now, which really calms them down, and often results in them having a little nap!
This would be a good thing right now - I for one would appreciate a little nap - so come on girls get those eyes shut!
I find that most days the pups are at their most fractious (with each other) at about 4 o'clock, so we seem to have got into the 4pm Kong routine now, which really calms them down, and often results in them having a little nap!
This would be a good thing right now - I for one would appreciate a little nap - so come on girls get those eyes shut!
BACK FROM THE SHOPS
Actually, we've been back for a while - I haven't been shopping all this time - but there was quite a lot of sorting out to do when we got home.
The puppies have been on their best behaviour again - so I've got lots done today. Unfortunately they had just settled down for a sleep when my neighbour decided to come round and see them, so their sleep was cut short. She also came armed with a handful of puppy treats, which was very kind, but does mean that they will probably be expecting these again the next time she comes round.
I had a phonecall a while ago from the company who are supposed to be sending our cake stands. Allegedly, they will be delivered today by Citylink. Hmmmm! I'll believe that when it happens.
The puppies have been on their best behaviour again - so I've got lots done today. Unfortunately they had just settled down for a sleep when my neighbour decided to come round and see them, so their sleep was cut short. She also came armed with a handful of puppy treats, which was very kind, but does mean that they will probably be expecting these again the next time she comes round.
I had a phonecall a while ago from the company who are supposed to be sending our cake stands. Allegedly, they will be delivered today by Citylink. Hmmmm! I'll believe that when it happens.
THE PUPPIES ARE...
... currently attacking the mop, so all is well!
They've reached a new milestone during the past couple of days, although this is one which we will probably wish they hadn't reached. In their room we have placed a leather bucket chair - for our own comfort you understand. It was getting a bit tedious having to sit on the floor when we were with them, so it makes life a bit more comfortable for us.
Anyway, the puppies have now managed - after not inconsiderable effort I have to say, to scale the heights of the chair. Rose managed it first. She'd been in serious training for about a week before she eventually succeeded and positioned herself on the seat with a very smug expression on her face as she surveyed the scene below her (which was mostly the top of Lily's head, as she too attempted this monumental feat). Yesterday - although I didn't actually witness it, BOTH puppies had managed to get onto the seat, so I imagine Lily jumped up herself and wasn't dragged up there by Rose. I popped my head round the corner (I'd been busy in the kitchen and had taken my eyes off them for all of 60 seconds) to see both girls snuggled up on the chair, looking very pleased with themselves.
Charles and I have had some debate about this. We DO NOT want them to get up on the furniture in the living room - EVER - unless they're lifted up on our knees. On the other hand, we can't keep an eye on them ALL the time when they are in their room, so we're going to let them have the use of this chair, providing they don't start to chew at it!!!
Right - in a few minutes we're going off to Morpeth. We'll just wait until all the school traffic has got out of the way. I've given up waiting for the cake stands (Yes there are supposed to be two). Charles has sent an email to try to find out what the hold up is, but I can't be hanging around every day on the off chance.
I hope Maggie May is okay today Dannymatt. Let me know later.
They've reached a new milestone during the past couple of days, although this is one which we will probably wish they hadn't reached. In their room we have placed a leather bucket chair - for our own comfort you understand. It was getting a bit tedious having to sit on the floor when we were with them, so it makes life a bit more comfortable for us.
Anyway, the puppies have now managed - after not inconsiderable effort I have to say, to scale the heights of the chair. Rose managed it first. She'd been in serious training for about a week before she eventually succeeded and positioned herself on the seat with a very smug expression on her face as she surveyed the scene below her (which was mostly the top of Lily's head, as she too attempted this monumental feat). Yesterday - although I didn't actually witness it, BOTH puppies had managed to get onto the seat, so I imagine Lily jumped up herself and wasn't dragged up there by Rose. I popped my head round the corner (I'd been busy in the kitchen and had taken my eyes off them for all of 60 seconds) to see both girls snuggled up on the chair, looking very pleased with themselves.
Charles and I have had some debate about this. We DO NOT want them to get up on the furniture in the living room - EVER - unless they're lifted up on our knees. On the other hand, we can't keep an eye on them ALL the time when they are in their room, so we're going to let them have the use of this chair, providing they don't start to chew at it!!!
Right - in a few minutes we're going off to Morpeth. We'll just wait until all the school traffic has got out of the way. I've given up waiting for the cake stands (Yes there are supposed to be two). Charles has sent an email to try to find out what the hold up is, but I can't be hanging around every day on the off chance.
I hope Maggie May is okay today Dannymatt. Let me know later.
Tuesday, 1 December 2009
GOOD OLE...
...corned beef hash for tea tonight!
It was going to be a stirfry, but the puppies had had all the chicken, I hadn't got any noodles and was struggling for enough veg!
So, corned beef hash seemed like a better option. Much more suited to the freezing weather. Real comfort food!!
Well - tomorrow we might be able to get out to the shops. Most of the deliveries have arrived, including my new glasses (I just typed 'classes' instead of 'glasses' - so clearly I'm still adjusting to them!) although sadly there is still no sign of my cupcake stand. This is getting serious now. How can we be expected to survive without such an essential bit of kit?
It was going to be a stirfry, but the puppies had had all the chicken, I hadn't got any noodles and was struggling for enough veg!
So, corned beef hash seemed like a better option. Much more suited to the freezing weather. Real comfort food!!
Well - tomorrow we might be able to get out to the shops. Most of the deliveries have arrived, including my new glasses (I just typed 'classes' instead of 'glasses' - so clearly I'm still adjusting to them!) although sadly there is still no sign of my cupcake stand. This is getting serious now. How can we be expected to survive without such an essential bit of kit?
THAT'LL TEACH YOU, ROSE!
The puppies have both been given a tasty treat for being good girls. Lily scoffed hers immediately, but Rose decided to play around with hers. She's thrown it up in the air, carried it outside then back in again, played 'football' with it...
...and then Lily came along, snatched it and gobbled it up before her very eyes!!!!
And the moral of this story is DON'T PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD!!
...and then Lily came along, snatched it and gobbled it up before her very eyes!!!!
And the moral of this story is DON'T PLAY WITH YOUR FOOD!!
IT'S GETTING MORE AND MORE DIFFICULT...
... to tell our puppies apart!
Lily's coat is really thickening up now and, although she'll probably never be the fluffball that Rose is, at a quick glance it is easy to mistake one for the other.
It's almost 11.45 and the pups have had an extremely lazy morning. Lots of sleeps, punctuated only by having to bark frantically at deliverymen! I'm sure that people nervously wonder what sort of ferocious beasts we have in this house - and then they look at the French windows and see that actually it's only two little white scraps barking their heads off!
Lily's coat is really thickening up now and, although she'll probably never be the fluffball that Rose is, at a quick glance it is easy to mistake one for the other.
It's almost 11.45 and the pups have had an extremely lazy morning. Lots of sleeps, punctuated only by having to bark frantically at deliverymen! I'm sure that people nervously wonder what sort of ferocious beasts we have in this house - and then they look at the French windows and see that actually it's only two little white scraps barking their heads off!
A COLD AND FROSTY MORNING
It's bitterly cold today - but a beautiful morning. I can say that quite happily without having to worry about de-icing the car and tentatively driving along the A697 to work. At one time I wouldn't have appreciated a morning like this - but now I can really enjoy it.
The cold doesn't seem to bother the puppies one bit! As you may recall, I had considered getting little fleeces for them, but apparently it's better to let their natural coats acclimatise to the weather and the natural oils need to cope with their coat being wet, so their fleeces can wait for a while. And, as my brother-in-law pointed out, they were bred in the Highlands and used to be put to work in all sorts of harsh conditions, so I'm sure they'll manage without being too wrapped up!!
We've got another day at home today. We can't go anywhere because we're expecting a few deliveries - all stuff for Christmas you understand. However, last night I did order a special treat for myself (but one which will undoubtedly benefit the rest of the family and any visitors we may have). My food processor has recently died on me, so I've ordered the new Kenwood Chef Titanium which looks a bit of a beast, but is neat enough to sit on the worktop without taking up too much space. I can't wait for it to arrive, although I think I have to wait about a week for delivery. (It should be here before Richard and Grandma come up though, so hopefully I can use it to make some goodies for them!)
The cold doesn't seem to bother the puppies one bit! As you may recall, I had considered getting little fleeces for them, but apparently it's better to let their natural coats acclimatise to the weather and the natural oils need to cope with their coat being wet, so their fleeces can wait for a while. And, as my brother-in-law pointed out, they were bred in the Highlands and used to be put to work in all sorts of harsh conditions, so I'm sure they'll manage without being too wrapped up!!
We've got another day at home today. We can't go anywhere because we're expecting a few deliveries - all stuff for Christmas you understand. However, last night I did order a special treat for myself (but one which will undoubtedly benefit the rest of the family and any visitors we may have). My food processor has recently died on me, so I've ordered the new Kenwood Chef Titanium which looks a bit of a beast, but is neat enough to sit on the worktop without taking up too much space. I can't wait for it to arrive, although I think I have to wait about a week for delivery. (It should be here before Richard and Grandma come up though, so hopefully I can use it to make some goodies for them!)
Monday, 30 November 2009
DID ANYONE ELSE...
VOTE FOR JOE?
Helen and I did! It's the first time I've EVER phoned in to one of these talent show things - but I shall continue to vote for him because I think he's great!
I have to say though, I think it's really mean to make the one who's just been voted out sing again. It was bad enough when they had to sing to stay in, but once they know they're out I think it's a bit hard on them.
Helen and I did! It's the first time I've EVER phoned in to one of these talent show things - but I shall continue to vote for him because I think he's great!
I have to say though, I think it's really mean to make the one who's just been voted out sing again. It was bad enough when they had to sing to stay in, but once they know they're out I think it's a bit hard on them.
REMEMBER ME?
Gosh - it seems AGES since I was able to sit down and write a proper post!
Obviously the weekend was pretty busy with having helen and Bill here, but they've left now, so the girls and I are settling back into our usual routine, ie they're fast asleep and I'm rushing round doing the chores!
I'm glad we're not needing to go out today, because the weather is awful again. The showers are very definitely wintery now and we've had some sleety stuff this morning.
I wonder what the puppies will think of snow?!
The pups have been little stars this weekend. They've had their excitable moments, but have been quick to calm down and have been lovely and sociable with their visitors. Rose is turning into a bit of a lapdog (when she's given a chance), but doesn't like it at all when Lily is given the same affection - so we're going to have to keep an eye on that. ('Mrs Jealous Knickers' was what Helen was calling her this morning!) Lily has been a joy. She is becoming so quick to please and to obey commands. They haven't needed a lot of attention either and really seem to be growing up all of a sudden. We're very proud of them both!
Well, while they're asleep, I'm going for a cuppa.
Be back later!!!
Obviously the weekend was pretty busy with having helen and Bill here, but they've left now, so the girls and I are settling back into our usual routine, ie they're fast asleep and I'm rushing round doing the chores!
I'm glad we're not needing to go out today, because the weather is awful again. The showers are very definitely wintery now and we've had some sleety stuff this morning.
I wonder what the puppies will think of snow?!
The pups have been little stars this weekend. They've had their excitable moments, but have been quick to calm down and have been lovely and sociable with their visitors. Rose is turning into a bit of a lapdog (when she's given a chance), but doesn't like it at all when Lily is given the same affection - so we're going to have to keep an eye on that. ('Mrs Jealous Knickers' was what Helen was calling her this morning!) Lily has been a joy. She is becoming so quick to please and to obey commands. They haven't needed a lot of attention either and really seem to be growing up all of a sudden. We're very proud of them both!
Well, while they're asleep, I'm going for a cuppa.
Be back later!!!
Sunday, 29 November 2009
WET AND WILD
That's what the weather has been like today. Absolutely miserable, it's never really been light - the perfect day for going to town really.
Helen, Bill and I set off early thinking the shops would open at 10am, only to find that nothing actually opens until 11 on a Sunday. Actually, I tell a lie, Fenwicks were open at 10.30 - but you can't actually pay for anything until 11. What a pain!!
Never mind, we were not thwarted. We enjoyed coffee in Starbucks, then sauntered round until it was time to start serious shopping. Poor Bill was going to go to the newly refurbished Hancock Museum (the last time he tried to do this, he got to the door and was told it had just closed. When he asked when it would be open again, he was told - in two years time!!!!!) However, he is obviously not meant to get in at all, because when he turned up at ten o'clock this morning, he discovered that it doesn't open until two on a Sunday, so he had to come shopping instead! Anyway, we all managed to get lots of stuff from our lists and were able to cross these off merrily as we enjoyed our lunch. We managed another hour of spending money after lunch, then all decided we'd had enough and went home with a quick stop on the way at Heighley Gate.
Charles meanwhile had spent the morning with the puppies. He also managed to get a new video posted. Thanks Charles, it's great. (I wonder what the pups would think if they knew that the black cat spends part of every morning in our back garden!!)
Helen, Bill and I set off early thinking the shops would open at 10am, only to find that nothing actually opens until 11 on a Sunday. Actually, I tell a lie, Fenwicks were open at 10.30 - but you can't actually pay for anything until 11. What a pain!!
Never mind, we were not thwarted. We enjoyed coffee in Starbucks, then sauntered round until it was time to start serious shopping. Poor Bill was going to go to the newly refurbished Hancock Museum (the last time he tried to do this, he got to the door and was told it had just closed. When he asked when it would be open again, he was told - in two years time!!!!!) However, he is obviously not meant to get in at all, because when he turned up at ten o'clock this morning, he discovered that it doesn't open until two on a Sunday, so he had to come shopping instead! Anyway, we all managed to get lots of stuff from our lists and were able to cross these off merrily as we enjoyed our lunch. We managed another hour of spending money after lunch, then all decided we'd had enough and went home with a quick stop on the way at Heighley Gate.
Charles meanwhile had spent the morning with the puppies. He also managed to get a new video posted. Thanks Charles, it's great. (I wonder what the pups would think if they knew that the black cat spends part of every morning in our back garden!!)
Saturday, 28 November 2009
JUST OFF TO ...
...get my hair done again. It doesn't seem four weeks since I was last there.
Charles is looking after the pups this morning and has promised to try and get a new video posted.
I'm not sure if I'll meet Helen and Bill in Morpeth or whether I'll have to get home so that Charles can go and meet Jakes to go to the match. They're planning on having lunch in town first, so I'm guessing they'll want to leave about 12ish.
Come on Toon PLEASE win today!
Charles is looking after the pups this morning and has promised to try and get a new video posted.
I'm not sure if I'll meet Helen and Bill in Morpeth or whether I'll have to get home so that Charles can go and meet Jakes to go to the match. They're planning on having lunch in town first, so I'm guessing they'll want to leave about 12ish.
Come on Toon PLEASE win today!
Friday, 27 November 2009
BATHTIME
Good grief that was hard work!!
Both puppies have been bathed. Charles did the washing - one pup at a time as we'd agreed - but this proved somewhat traumatic for both puppies as they hated being separated and could tell that something different was happening.
However, they are now spotlessly clean, blow dried and combed - and look stunningly fabulous! The funny thing is that when they're dry Rose looks twice the size of Lily because of her amazingly fluffy coat. But when they're wet they are absolutely identical - in fact it's really hard to tell them apart.
Now we're just letting them have a few minutes to make sure they are really, properly dry. Actually they're both snuggled up on Charles's knee, looking very drowsy, so it won't be long before bedtime.
Both puppies have been bathed. Charles did the washing - one pup at a time as we'd agreed - but this proved somewhat traumatic for both puppies as they hated being separated and could tell that something different was happening.
However, they are now spotlessly clean, blow dried and combed - and look stunningly fabulous! The funny thing is that when they're dry Rose looks twice the size of Lily because of her amazingly fluffy coat. But when they're wet they are absolutely identical - in fact it's really hard to tell them apart.
Now we're just letting them have a few minutes to make sure they are really, properly dry. Actually they're both snuggled up on Charles's knee, looking very drowsy, so it won't be long before bedtime.
BACK TO THE WATER BOWL GAME
The more often you can play it the better.
It's especially good if you let your mum mop the floor and get it all nice and dry - then you have another go! He he he!!!
It's especially good if you let your mum mop the floor and get it all nice and dry - then you have another go! He he he!!!
DID YOU KNOW THAT...
... four weeks today is Christmas Day? (and James's birthday)
FOUR WEEKS!
How scary is that?
It's not so bad for me because I've got all the time in the world - but I remember in the days when I was a working person, I used to be getting quite stressed about now.
I wonder if the tradition of the staff shopping time will continue at my last school. It was a brilliant system, where colleagues covered for each other during the last week of term giving full time staff half a day to do last minute shopping - I think everyone really appreciated it! Some traditions should definitely be kept up, eh girls?? (Thats not 'girls' as in the puppies, but as in the staff!)
Just out of interest, has anyone been to the Metro Centre since they put their decorations up? I don't know what you thought, but James and I thought they were AWFUL. They actually look nothing at all like Christmas decorations, more like something weird from IKEA or even the set of some sci-fi film. Really strange!
FOUR WEEKS!
How scary is that?
It's not so bad for me because I've got all the time in the world - but I remember in the days when I was a working person, I used to be getting quite stressed about now.
I wonder if the tradition of the staff shopping time will continue at my last school. It was a brilliant system, where colleagues covered for each other during the last week of term giving full time staff half a day to do last minute shopping - I think everyone really appreciated it! Some traditions should definitely be kept up, eh girls?? (Thats not 'girls' as in the puppies, but as in the staff!)
Just out of interest, has anyone been to the Metro Centre since they put their decorations up? I don't know what you thought, but James and I thought they were AWFUL. They actually look nothing at all like Christmas decorations, more like something weird from IKEA or even the set of some sci-fi film. Really strange!
AND THE LATEST GAME IN...
...THE PUPPIES COMPENDIUM IS...
LET'S SEE HOW MUCH WATER WE CAN SPILL ALL OVER OUR MUM'S FLOOR!
It's a good one this.
It doesn't require much in the way of equipment - just a water bowl, preferably one that has just been filled.
The object of the game is to be the first puppy to tip the water bowl up completely.
A second object is to see which puppy can trample in the flood the most and, by avoiding capture by our irate mum, make as many wet paw prints over as wide an area as possible.
A good strategy is to wait until the bowl has been placed on the floor and our mum's back is turned. Extra points are awarded if the bowl is tipped BEFORE she's even stood up after placing the bowl in the start position.
This is a really good game because both puppies can be winners. The best 'tipper' isn't necessarily the best 'trampler' - so go for it girls!
LET'S SEE HOW MUCH WATER WE CAN SPILL ALL OVER OUR MUM'S FLOOR!
It's a good one this.
It doesn't require much in the way of equipment - just a water bowl, preferably one that has just been filled.
The object of the game is to be the first puppy to tip the water bowl up completely.
A second object is to see which puppy can trample in the flood the most and, by avoiding capture by our irate mum, make as many wet paw prints over as wide an area as possible.
A good strategy is to wait until the bowl has been placed on the floor and our mum's back is turned. Extra points are awarded if the bowl is tipped BEFORE she's even stood up after placing the bowl in the start position.
This is a really good game because both puppies can be winners. The best 'tipper' isn't necessarily the best 'trampler' - so go for it girls!
WELL...
Don't let me disturb you girls!
They managed to wake up just enough to go out for ablutions, come in for a quick lunch and then went straight back to bed.
This MUST be the teenage phase, mustn't it?
They managed to wake up just enough to go out for ablutions, come in for a quick lunch and then went straight back to bed.
This MUST be the teenage phase, mustn't it?
A WHOLE MORNING HAS PASSED...
... without me writing on the blog!
To be honest, I was all set to start writing at about 8 o'clock, but Rose had a bit of a poop disaster and I ended up doing some fairly major cleaning up. She will have a bath later!!
Actually the pups haven't had a bath for ages. The last time was when we decided to put them both in the big bath and ended up with something resembling a water fight, with two puppies scrabbling around and sliding up and down the length of the tub!
We have hopefully learned from this and will be more prepared come bathtime this evening. Firstly we will bath ONE PUPPY AT A TIME and secondly to avoid skidding around I have bought a pretty horrid, but very functional, non-slip bath/shower mat.
As James is coming round after work, I hope we might be able to persuade him to help out with this highly enjoyable (!) activity. So, Jim, if you're reading this - don't come round wearing anything decent tonight!
I got all excited when the post came today as there was a package from the spex people - but my hopes were raised falsely because they turned out to be for Charles and not for me.
We've had another busy morning. We popped into Morpeth to get the things I forgot yesterday. While in M and S I spotted a very nice little jacket on the sale rail that was just my size, so I decided to go and get the bits of food shopping first then I would go and get the jacket on my way out. BUT no sooner had I paid for my groceries and had a long chat with the cashier whose children I used to teach at Swarland, than the place was suddenly overrun with security staff and police and everyone was told to leave the store immediately! I've no idea what was going on, but I certainly wasn't going to be able to get my jacket! The thing is, there was only ONE and it was a really nice tweed, fitted style with a detachable fur collar, only £22 AND SOMEONE ELSE WILL HAVE BOUGHT IT BEFORE I GO BACK TOMORROW!! So, if you're in Morpeth Marks and Spencer's today - please keep your hands of that jacket on the sale rail!!!
The puppies have had a good sleep and are just going through the rather noisy process of waking up - lots of moans and groans and stretches, and then another few minutes kip. This will go on for a while until they realise that they need togo out for a wee and there is no putting it off any longer!!!
To be honest, I was all set to start writing at about 8 o'clock, but Rose had a bit of a poop disaster and I ended up doing some fairly major cleaning up. She will have a bath later!!
Actually the pups haven't had a bath for ages. The last time was when we decided to put them both in the big bath and ended up with something resembling a water fight, with two puppies scrabbling around and sliding up and down the length of the tub!
We have hopefully learned from this and will be more prepared come bathtime this evening. Firstly we will bath ONE PUPPY AT A TIME and secondly to avoid skidding around I have bought a pretty horrid, but very functional, non-slip bath/shower mat.
As James is coming round after work, I hope we might be able to persuade him to help out with this highly enjoyable (!) activity. So, Jim, if you're reading this - don't come round wearing anything decent tonight!
I got all excited when the post came today as there was a package from the spex people - but my hopes were raised falsely because they turned out to be for Charles and not for me.
We've had another busy morning. We popped into Morpeth to get the things I forgot yesterday. While in M and S I spotted a very nice little jacket on the sale rail that was just my size, so I decided to go and get the bits of food shopping first then I would go and get the jacket on my way out. BUT no sooner had I paid for my groceries and had a long chat with the cashier whose children I used to teach at Swarland, than the place was suddenly overrun with security staff and police and everyone was told to leave the store immediately! I've no idea what was going on, but I certainly wasn't going to be able to get my jacket! The thing is, there was only ONE and it was a really nice tweed, fitted style with a detachable fur collar, only £22 AND SOMEONE ELSE WILL HAVE BOUGHT IT BEFORE I GO BACK TOMORROW!! So, if you're in Morpeth Marks and Spencer's today - please keep your hands of that jacket on the sale rail!!!
The puppies have had a good sleep and are just going through the rather noisy process of waking up - lots of moans and groans and stretches, and then another few minutes kip. This will go on for a while until they realise that they need togo out for a wee and there is no putting it off any longer!!!
Thursday, 26 November 2009
HAVEN'T GOT A CLUE...
... what to do for our meal this evening. I'm totally uninspired!!
It's typical isn't it - you go out and do a big food shop, then come home and find that you still haven't got the makings of a decent meal.
Foolishly I shopped for the weekend without remembering that there was still a day to get through first! I may just have to raid the freezer.
Talking of the freezer, I made a couple of fabulous Chocolate Orange Tortes this afternoon. One to try this weekend, and the other will do for Christmas as they can be frozen for a month or so. You actually use Terry's Dark Chocolate Oranges, along with a hefty slug of Cointreau to make the mousse, which obviously has eggs and cream added to it. Then you make a syrup with MORE COINTREAU and very thin slivers of orange peel into which you immerse sponge fingers (or Rich Tea biscuits). Line loaf tins with cling film, pour in alternate layers of mousse and soggy sponge and pop it into the freezer, remembering to take it out again no more than an hour before you want to serve it. Dead easy and very quick!
However, this still doesn't solve the problem of what to do for tea tonight!
It's typical isn't it - you go out and do a big food shop, then come home and find that you still haven't got the makings of a decent meal.
Foolishly I shopped for the weekend without remembering that there was still a day to get through first! I may just have to raid the freezer.
Talking of the freezer, I made a couple of fabulous Chocolate Orange Tortes this afternoon. One to try this weekend, and the other will do for Christmas as they can be frozen for a month or so. You actually use Terry's Dark Chocolate Oranges, along with a hefty slug of Cointreau to make the mousse, which obviously has eggs and cream added to it. Then you make a syrup with MORE COINTREAU and very thin slivers of orange peel into which you immerse sponge fingers (or Rich Tea biscuits). Line loaf tins with cling film, pour in alternate layers of mousse and soggy sponge and pop it into the freezer, remembering to take it out again no more than an hour before you want to serve it. Dead easy and very quick!
However, this still doesn't solve the problem of what to do for tea tonight!
KONGS ARE FAB
For anyone who doesn't know about KONGS (although I'm sure I've mentioned them before) they are hollow cones made of some indestructible material, that can be stuffed full of all sorts of doggy delights. Kongs keep your puppy/dog busy for AGES as they try to get every last morsel out of the centre. Lily and Rose are having their afternoon Kong treat now. Today the filling is cream cheese, cheddar cheese and a tiny bit of very well cooked sausage (The Best Old Fashioned Pork Sausage - no cheap rubbish for my girls!) And the girls are loving it!!
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