That's what we're watching now. Oh God - it's SO true.
I detest New Year with a passion. Lawrence Llewellyn-Bowen, "Go away, you're making my cushions look ugly" - love it!
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!
Friday, 31 December 2010
I PROMISE...
... that, once this week's out of the way, I'll get back to normal posting on the blog.
It's been a pretty busy day today - but very enjoyable. Mum, Helen and I went into Morpeth this morning and had a bit of girly retail therapy and coffee in the very civilised surrundings of Rutherford's coffee shop.
We followed that up with a visit to James and Claire's apartment, so that nan can picture where they are and then it was afternoon tea at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel - a fabulous selection of sandwiches, scones and little cakes - oh and a tiny trifle. very nice indeed.
Back home to start preparing for tomorrow's family lunch and now we're looking forward (or not in my case) to the annual Hootenany knees up. Oh joy - I can hardly contain myself.
Christina's just been on the phone and she sounds awful. I suspect I passed the flu-bug onto her over Christmas weekend and am truly sorry, because she's in for some very rough days (and nights).
It's been a pretty busy day today - but very enjoyable. Mum, Helen and I went into Morpeth this morning and had a bit of girly retail therapy and coffee in the very civilised surrundings of Rutherford's coffee shop.
We followed that up with a visit to James and Claire's apartment, so that nan can picture where they are and then it was afternoon tea at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel - a fabulous selection of sandwiches, scones and little cakes - oh and a tiny trifle. very nice indeed.
Back home to start preparing for tomorrow's family lunch and now we're looking forward (or not in my case) to the annual Hootenany knees up. Oh joy - I can hardly contain myself.
Christina's just been on the phone and she sounds awful. I suspect I passed the flu-bug onto her over Christmas weekend and am truly sorry, because she's in for some very rough days (and nights).
Thursday, 30 December 2010
LOVELY DAY!
The girls have been thoroughly spoiled. Lots of cuddles and attention - they've loved it.
We seem to have eaten rather a lot mind you. In fact I think we'll be eating trifle for days to come, as I only noticed that the recipe serves 20 when I'd finished making it!
Tomorrow we're going to take Mum into Morpeth in the morning, then we're going round to see James and Claire before going to Jesmond Dene for tea.
I've thought of a way of avoiding the horrors of Hootenany as well. As we're expecting 11 for lunch on Saturday, I shall spend New Years Eve preparing the food - I'll be much happier that way.
We seem to have eaten rather a lot mind you. In fact I think we'll be eating trifle for days to come, as I only noticed that the recipe serves 20 when I'd finished making it!
Tomorrow we're going to take Mum into Morpeth in the morning, then we're going round to see James and Claire before going to Jesmond Dene for tea.
I've thought of a way of avoiding the horrors of Hootenany as well. As we're expecting 11 for lunch on Saturday, I shall spend New Years Eve preparing the food - I'll be much happier that way.
I LOVE...
... those few minutes when everything's ready, food all sorted, table set, presents piled up, wine breathing, Take That playing...
... and we're just waiting for our guests to arrive.
Really looking forward to the next few days. It'll be like Christmas all over again!
... and we're just waiting for our guests to arrive.
Really looking forward to the next few days. It'll be like Christmas all over again!
Wednesday, 29 December 2010
WELL, HELLO THERE!
Bit tardy tday, like!
Only on the blog though - I've been anything but tardy elsewhere as I chase my tail trying to get everything sorted ready for an influx of visitors over the next few days.
Most of the cooking prep is done, so tomorrow should be relatively easy. I'm going to attempt a Cafe 21 lamb recipe tomorrow evening - just hope I do it justice.
Sound as if we may have all the kids on Saturday - (Helen's and mine) - so am reviewing the menu in the light of very hungry youngsters!!
Only on the blog though - I've been anything but tardy elsewhere as I chase my tail trying to get everything sorted ready for an influx of visitors over the next few days.
Most of the cooking prep is done, so tomorrow should be relatively easy. I'm going to attempt a Cafe 21 lamb recipe tomorrow evening - just hope I do it justice.
Sound as if we may have all the kids on Saturday - (Helen's and mine) - so am reviewing the menu in the light of very hungry youngsters!!
Tuesday, 28 December 2010
RAIN!!
Can't remember the last time we had rain as opposed to snow, but this morning we're having an absolute downpour and, so long as it doesn't freeze over later this evening, the signs are looking good for finally getting rid of the snow that's covered the ground for the last five and a bit weeks.
The girls are not taking it well, however, and have suddenly turned into little Fairweather Dogs, showing a distinct reluctance to venture outside at all.
Charles and I are going off to town shortly. Hope it's not too busy cos I can't cope with crowds at the best of times, but especially not when I'm still feeling a tiny bit fragile.
Hadn't realised we've got a match this afternoon. Hope we get something out of this one.
The girls are not taking it well, however, and have suddenly turned into little Fairweather Dogs, showing a distinct reluctance to venture outside at all.
Charles and I are going off to town shortly. Hope it's not too busy cos I can't cope with crowds at the best of times, but especially not when I'm still feeling a tiny bit fragile.
Hadn't realised we've got a match this afternoon. Hope we get something out of this one.
Monday, 27 December 2010
AT LAST WE KNOW...
... what's happening this week - weather permitting of course!
Helen and Bill are coming on Thursday, staying over New Year and bringing my Mum with them. They'll like that!
We've booked afternoon tea at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel on Friday, because I've been wanting to take Mum there for ages and it seems like a very civilised thing to do on New Year's Eve.
James will bring Claire to meet his Nan on Thursday - and there was no way they were going to miss out on a trip to JDHH, so we'll be seeing them on Friday as well - (and if I tell him I've got half a pig to roast on Saturday, we'll probably see him then as well!)
Right - we've just dyed Rose a lovely shade of pink! Purely by accident of course. We'd done their advocate flea treatment, which is applied to the back of the neck and left to dry - but had omitted to remove the very nice red leather (blinging) collar, which then reacted with the liquid and rapidly spread all around her neck giving the sinister impression of her having had her throat cut.
Fortunately, once we'd given the stuff time to sink in to her skin, I was able to scrub the colour off, restoring her skinny little neck to normality.
Tomorrow - we've got a trip planned to town, where we're meeting guess who?Oh yes, that would be James and Claire! A little breakfast, followed by a couple of hours at the sales. (I won't be able to stand any more than that.)
Helen and Bill are coming on Thursday, staying over New Year and bringing my Mum with them. They'll like that!
We've booked afternoon tea at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel on Friday, because I've been wanting to take Mum there for ages and it seems like a very civilised thing to do on New Year's Eve.
James will bring Claire to meet his Nan on Thursday - and there was no way they were going to miss out on a trip to JDHH, so we'll be seeing them on Friday as well - (and if I tell him I've got half a pig to roast on Saturday, we'll probably see him then as well!)
Right - we've just dyed Rose a lovely shade of pink! Purely by accident of course. We'd done their advocate flea treatment, which is applied to the back of the neck and left to dry - but had omitted to remove the very nice red leather (blinging) collar, which then reacted with the liquid and rapidly spread all around her neck giving the sinister impression of her having had her throat cut.
Fortunately, once we'd given the stuff time to sink in to her skin, I was able to scrub the colour off, restoring her skinny little neck to normality.
Tomorrow - we've got a trip planned to town, where we're meeting guess who?Oh yes, that would be James and Claire! A little breakfast, followed by a couple of hours at the sales. (I won't be able to stand any more than that.)
MORE SNOW!
Pretty wet stuff - but a covering nevertheless. I think we have more forecast for tomorrow as well - oh joy!
Still trying to work out when my family are going to be able to get here. Helen and Bill always come for New Year (just so we can all sit around moaning about how much we hate it), but we were hoping that they might bring Mum up before that so we can have a mini-Christmas together.
I think Bill was hoping to come up for the falcons game, which was originally scheduled for yesterday, then reorganised for today, but which has apparently been called off again. Hope he hasn't set off for it! Better let him know.
Still trying to work out when my family are going to be able to get here. Helen and Bill always come for New Year (just so we can all sit around moaning about how much we hate it), but we were hoping that they might bring Mum up before that so we can have a mini-Christmas together.
I think Bill was hoping to come up for the falcons game, which was originally scheduled for yesterday, then reorganised for today, but which has apparently been called off again. Hope he hasn't set off for it! Better let him know.
AFTER A SLIGHT RELAPSE...
... yesterday, I think I've had a better night, waking only a few times and then managing to get to sleep again. Feel much more like my normal self, but still have that horrible haggard look, which is anything but flattering. Even my fabulous Mac makeup can't disguise the fact that I look pretty awful and actually just want to hide away until I've got my appetite back properly and can put a few lbs back on again.
However, hiding away isn't an option this morning, as we need to make a quick trip to Morrisons in Morpeth, although I could always cut some holes out of one of James's beanies and make it into a kind of balaclava. Yep - tht's what I'll do.
However, hiding away isn't an option this morning, as we need to make a quick trip to Morrisons in Morpeth, although I could always cut some holes out of one of James's beanies and make it into a kind of balaclava. Yep - tht's what I'll do.
Sunday, 26 December 2010
BOXING DAY
There was I, having reached agreement with Charles last night that he'd get up with the girls as I'd been pretty poorly for the last few days and hadn't had much sleep,as well as a busy day in the kitchen yesterday, looking forward to a leisurely start to the day.
Did it happen? Not a chance. I lay awake listening to the girls yapping for attention at 7am (and this is always a cry to be let outside pretty damn quick) and began to realise that there was going to be absolutely no response from Charles at all. So in the end I got up with them, let them out to do their ablutions and then met Charles who had roused himself by this time and who wanted to know, "What are YOU doing up?"
Unfortunately Charles, as clever as we might think our dogs, they are not yet capable of putting themselves outside and still need our help to do so. This is why they bark in the morning and, unfortunately, when they've got to go, they've got to go NOW, so hoping for an extra half an hours kip from the onset of their cries for attention is NOT an option.
Does that answer your question?
Did it happen? Not a chance. I lay awake listening to the girls yapping for attention at 7am (and this is always a cry to be let outside pretty damn quick) and began to realise that there was going to be absolutely no response from Charles at all. So in the end I got up with them, let them out to do their ablutions and then met Charles who had roused himself by this time and who wanted to know, "What are YOU doing up?"
Unfortunately Charles, as clever as we might think our dogs, they are not yet capable of putting themselves outside and still need our help to do so. This is why they bark in the morning and, unfortunately, when they've got to go, they've got to go NOW, so hoping for an extra half an hours kip from the onset of their cries for attention is NOT an option.
Does that answer your question?
Saturday, 25 December 2010
THAT'S THAT THEN...
... all over for another year!
We've crammed Christmas and a birthday into the one day as we do, we've all received fabulous, thoughtful presents, eaten too much and laughed a lot. Claire's family called in during the early afternoon, so she could see Jim on his birthday.
The girls are wearing bling on their bling! In fact we're blinded by the diamante! Who cares - they look dead cute.
Now come the days I really enjoy. Boxing Day - get up leisurely, knowing there's more than enough food in the house and everyone can just help themselves to whatever they want. Turkey sandwich anyone? Lazing around (with my new Kindle,listening to Take That, while wearing my new Uggs and my Mac make-up) while Charles and James are at the match.
Then the days before New Year - no pressure, still plenty of food in the house so don't need to venture out if we don't want to; just able to enjoy catching up with family and friends - before the dreaded New Years Eve. Am I the only person who hates this night with a passion? I could cheerfully take a sledgehammer to the telly if it would mean avoiding Jules Holland's bloody Hootanany (don't know how to spell it and don't care either)
Have just realised, I'm too tired to carry on right now. Everyone else has turned in for the night, so I think I will too!
We've crammed Christmas and a birthday into the one day as we do, we've all received fabulous, thoughtful presents, eaten too much and laughed a lot. Claire's family called in during the early afternoon, so she could see Jim on his birthday.
The girls are wearing bling on their bling! In fact we're blinded by the diamante! Who cares - they look dead cute.
Now come the days I really enjoy. Boxing Day - get up leisurely, knowing there's more than enough food in the house and everyone can just help themselves to whatever they want. Turkey sandwich anyone? Lazing around (with my new Kindle,listening to Take That, while wearing my new Uggs and my Mac make-up) while Charles and James are at the match.
Then the days before New Year - no pressure, still plenty of food in the house so don't need to venture out if we don't want to; just able to enjoy catching up with family and friends - before the dreaded New Years Eve. Am I the only person who hates this night with a passion? I could cheerfully take a sledgehammer to the telly if it would mean avoiding Jules Holland's bloody Hootanany (don't know how to spell it and don't care either)
Have just realised, I'm too tired to carry on right now. Everyone else has turned in for the night, so I think I will too!
HAPPY CHRISTMAS!
We were up early in our house - thanks to the girls - who appear to know that something exciting is going on today and they clearly don't want to waste a minute of it!
Friday, 24 December 2010
AND LO...
.. an angel of the Lord appeared...
Well, not actually an angel as such, but James arrived and within minutes of him being in the house, my mood was lifting, I began to feel more like my usual self and even managed to eat a fish finger sandwich!!! I know, I know - all that food in the house and we're eating fish finger butties, but there are times when nothing else will do!! (Tastier than chicken soup as well.)
How did this happen. I was in the depths of despair this morning, bursting into tears at every little thing and feeling throughly sorry for myself and suddenly it all lifted!
And even though I promised my mother that I wouldn't even THINK of going out for a meal tonight and would stay in bed drinking lucozade and eating grapes - I am already dressed and ready for Marabinis and actually feel remarkably hungry!!
By the way, did anyone else watch the Nativity this week on BBC1 and find it overwhelmingly moving? I lay on the settee watching the birth and the arrival of the kings (who according to the Gospels didn't arrive until some time later, but what's that little detail?) with tears streaming down my cheeks. I absolutely loved it. Well done BBC.
Well, not actually an angel as such, but James arrived and within minutes of him being in the house, my mood was lifting, I began to feel more like my usual self and even managed to eat a fish finger sandwich!!! I know, I know - all that food in the house and we're eating fish finger butties, but there are times when nothing else will do!! (Tastier than chicken soup as well.)
How did this happen. I was in the depths of despair this morning, bursting into tears at every little thing and feeling throughly sorry for myself and suddenly it all lifted!
And even though I promised my mother that I wouldn't even THINK of going out for a meal tonight and would stay in bed drinking lucozade and eating grapes - I am already dressed and ready for Marabinis and actually feel remarkably hungry!!
By the way, did anyone else watch the Nativity this week on BBC1 and find it overwhelmingly moving? I lay on the settee watching the birth and the arrival of the kings (who according to the Gospels didn't arrive until some time later, but what's that little detail?) with tears streaming down my cheeks. I absolutely loved it. Well done BBC.
LOOK LIKE I'VE AGED...
... ten years in the last five days. I saw this with absolute clarity in the glare of the hairdresser's mirror this morning. Probably not helped by the fact that I've lost 6lbs since losing my appetite.
I've also, alarmingly, spent a lot of the morning in tears - anything and everything sets me off.
James will be arriving any minute for his Christmas/Birthday stay - and I need to get myself pulled round.
I've also, alarmingly, spent a lot of the morning in tears - anything and everything sets me off.
James will be arriving any minute for his Christmas/Birthday stay - and I need to get myself pulled round.
Thursday, 23 December 2010
HAVE MANAGED...
... half a cheese sandwich this evening. Couldn't taste it and didn't want any more than that, but I've got to start getting my act together, especially as we're supposed to be going to Marabini's for a meal tomorrow night.
It's been a really uneventful day today - and I'm thankful for that because I've spent most of the time lying down and dozing. This is just not me at all.
It's been a really uneventful day today - and I'm thankful for that because I've spent most of the time lying down and dozing. This is just not me at all.
STILL FEEL...
...RUBBISH!
Another bad night, dragging myself around this morning, off my food, generally pretty miserable.
Another bad night, dragging myself around this morning, off my food, generally pretty miserable.
Wednesday, 22 December 2010
JUST WANT TO GO TO SLEEP
I NEVER, EVER get like this - and I don't like it one little bit.
I honestly can't be bothered to do anything, which is truly inconvenient as I've got all the orders dispatched and was hoping to spend time getting ready for OUR Christmas.
James - who passed his man flu onto me - assures me that by the weekend I should feel fine, and that's okay, but I still need to get stuff done before then.
I honestly can't be bothered to do anything, which is truly inconvenient as I've got all the orders dispatched and was hoping to spend time getting ready for OUR Christmas.
James - who passed his man flu onto me - assures me that by the weekend I should feel fine, and that's okay, but I still need to get stuff done before then.
BAD NIGHT!
The warm bath only helped for so long - and I think the night nurse packed up and went home, because I've spent a fitful night, trying to keep warm and to stop shivering. It got to the point where I had to keep every inch of my skin covered up otherwise it was actually painful!
Don't feel too bad this morning though, so hope that's the worst of it out of the way.
I'm waiting for my Tesco delivery this morning. Can't see any reason why it shouldn't arrive this time, especially as the predicted snow didn't arrive last night.
The girls are squabbling in their room. I can hear them having a go at each other! Actually, it was interesting yesterday as our friends who have Matilda (nine month old Westie) came round with their Christmas card AND Matilda. She is already much bigger than our two, so I really am beginning to think we got miniature Westies. (Small in stature, but huge in personality!)
Don't feel too bad this morning though, so hope that's the worst of it out of the way.
I'm waiting for my Tesco delivery this morning. Can't see any reason why it shouldn't arrive this time, especially as the predicted snow didn't arrive last night.
The girls are squabbling in their room. I can hear them having a go at each other! Actually, it was interesting yesterday as our friends who have Matilda (nine month old Westie) came round with their Christmas card AND Matilda. She is already much bigger than our two, so I really am beginning to think we got miniature Westies. (Small in stature, but huge in personality!)
Tuesday, 21 December 2010
WOW!
How brilliant are Benylin Day and Night Cold care tablets?
I know they only mask the symtoms - but they do it very effectively.
Feel much better now!
I know they only mask the symtoms - but they do it very effectively.
Feel much better now!
FEEL LOUSY TODAY
Hot and cold, legs that don't want to hold me up, coughing, sneezing - great!
Just hope I get rid of it before the weekend.
It seems to have taken me twice as long as it usually does to do stuff today. Feeling very sorry for self!
Charles went out shopping earlier. he was SUPPOSED to be going to B and Q, but about an hour after leaving the house, he rang me to say he'd only got as far as Morpeth - becuse there was so much traffic on the road! He actually sounded surprised at this discovery! Er, yes Charles - it's Christmas week, it will be busy. He flatly refused to go to B and Q, at which point I had a paddy and put the phone down on him. He did, however, redeem himself somewhat by purchasing a gas heater in Morpeth "The very last one!" Nothing smart and trendy - but functional. Hope we never have to use it!
Just hope I get rid of it before the weekend.
It seems to have taken me twice as long as it usually does to do stuff today. Feeling very sorry for self!
Charles went out shopping earlier. he was SUPPOSED to be going to B and Q, but about an hour after leaving the house, he rang me to say he'd only got as far as Morpeth - becuse there was so much traffic on the road! He actually sounded surprised at this discovery! Er, yes Charles - it's Christmas week, it will be busy. He flatly refused to go to B and Q, at which point I had a paddy and put the phone down on him. He did, however, redeem himself somewhat by purchasing a gas heater in Morpeth "The very last one!" Nothing smart and trendy - but functional. Hope we never have to use it!
Monday, 20 December 2010
SHORN!
I think the girl(Her name's Serena. She's from Shilbottle.) at Woofcuts is just a little bit scissor happy (or razor happy maybe) because the girls have come back absolutely shorn, despite my request that they should only have a trim and a tidy-up.
They both have huge, sad eyes, which we can see properly now that their fringes have gone. And they look so tiny - especially Rose who just looks like a mini Westie now. (Actully, she doesn't really look like a Westie at all - more like a tiny lamb!) In fairness, they probably are genuinly distressed about losing their thermal insulation just at the time they need it most. So, they've gone to bed with an extra blanket and wearing their Toon tops tonight!
Charles succeeded in only part of his mission today. He failed to bring home a portable heater (although he DID get me a replacement hand-mixer as the one I've had for years has given up on me), but I've tracked one down in B and Q so he's going over there to pick one up in the morning. He's also going to call in at the City Link depot in an attempt to collect our outstanding packages. I have to say I was somewhat gobsmacked by the claim on their web-site that they are functioning 'normally' and only have a three-day backlog. That is an out and out lie! We've been waiting for weeks for our stuff.
What am I doing tomorrow? Well - a bit of baking (there's a surprise) and probably the pre-Christmas cleaning, then all I need to do so far as orders are concerned, is to make a Pavlova on Wednesday and I'm done.
They both have huge, sad eyes, which we can see properly now that their fringes have gone. And they look so tiny - especially Rose who just looks like a mini Westie now. (Actully, she doesn't really look like a Westie at all - more like a tiny lamb!) In fairness, they probably are genuinly distressed about losing their thermal insulation just at the time they need it most. So, they've gone to bed with an extra blanket and wearing their Toon tops tonight!
Charles succeeded in only part of his mission today. He failed to bring home a portable heater (although he DID get me a replacement hand-mixer as the one I've had for years has given up on me), but I've tracked one down in B and Q so he's going over there to pick one up in the morning. He's also going to call in at the City Link depot in an attempt to collect our outstanding packages. I have to say I was somewhat gobsmacked by the claim on their web-site that they are functioning 'normally' and only have a three-day backlog. That is an out and out lie! We've been waiting for weeks for our stuff.
What am I doing tomorrow? Well - a bit of baking (there's a surprise) and probably the pre-Christmas cleaning, then all I need to do so far as orders are concerned, is to make a Pavlova on Wednesday and I'm done.
CHARLES IS ENDEAVOURING...
... to get the girls to Shilbottle for their Christmad Coiffure(that's how I typed it - meant Christmas of course, but the 'mad' bit might be quite appropriate!)
Considering the earlier problems on the A1, I think he'll be lucky to make it along the side roads. However, he had strict instructions to ring me when he got there. Well, that was hours ago and after waiting impatiently for a call or text, I ended up ringing him...
... and his mobile rang out loud and clear - from our livingroom!
So, who knows where he is right now?
Hopefully all is okay and while the girls are being pampered he can get to Alnwick to purchase an un-electric heater of some description - just in case, you know.
As for me, I've been making the last of the Christmas orders up today (apart from some last minute cupcakes that I can't do until Wednesday). I've got two chocolate cakes cooling ready to be filled and frosted and am thinking of making a white chocolate gateau to have at home. It's funny - I spend all my time making cakes, but hardly ever eat them myself!!
Considering the earlier problems on the A1, I think he'll be lucky to make it along the side roads. However, he had strict instructions to ring me when he got there. Well, that was hours ago and after waiting impatiently for a call or text, I ended up ringing him...
... and his mobile rang out loud and clear - from our livingroom!
So, who knows where he is right now?
Hopefully all is okay and while the girls are being pampered he can get to Alnwick to purchase an un-electric heater of some description - just in case, you know.
As for me, I've been making the last of the Christmas orders up today (apart from some last minute cupcakes that I can't do until Wednesday). I've got two chocolate cakes cooling ready to be filled and frosted and am thinking of making a white chocolate gateau to have at home. It's funny - I spend all my time making cakes, but hardly ever eat them myself!!
Sunday, 19 December 2010
SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR
Really not interested this year. I bet David Haye wins - and he's not even there.
Keep hoping 'Smithy' turns up - at least I'd recognise him!
Still going outside every half hour or so to sweep away more snow. I honestly thought we were just in for flurries today, not all this.
Actually, today's been bit of a non-day. Okay, it was lovely to see James, but other than that, I don't think I've done anything of any significance.
Well, what do you know - Smithy's just turned up!!!
Keep hoping 'Smithy' turns up - at least I'd recognise him!
Still going outside every half hour or so to sweep away more snow. I honestly thought we were just in for flurries today, not all this.
Actually, today's been bit of a non-day. Okay, it was lovely to see James, but other than that, I don't think I've done anything of any significance.
Well, what do you know - Smithy's just turned up!!!
AND JUST WHEN YOU THINK YOU'RE OUT OF THE WOODS...
... along comes another five inches of snow, falling in the space of two hours and causing power cuts to a huge area of the north of the county (us included)
James had just sat down for a late brunch when it started. Fortunately he got out pretty damn quick, because another hour or so and he would have been stuck - and cold because we never DID go out and buy back up heaters, despite my concerns three weeks ago. (We will NOW though)
I have a bad feeling about getting the girls to Shilbottle tomorrow for their hairdos. We've still got blizzard conditions out there and all the routes from Fram to the A1 are blocked. Oh - and we have obviously got our electricity back on. A very big thank you goes to whoever was responsible for sorting out the fault.
James had just sat down for a late brunch when it started. Fortunately he got out pretty damn quick, because another hour or so and he would have been stuck - and cold because we never DID go out and buy back up heaters, despite my concerns three weeks ago. (We will NOW though)
I have a bad feeling about getting the girls to Shilbottle tomorrow for their hairdos. We've still got blizzard conditions out there and all the routes from Fram to the A1 are blocked. Oh - and we have obviously got our electricity back on. A very big thank you goes to whoever was responsible for sorting out the fault.
SUNDAY MORNING...
... and absolutely freezing again.
Our house is usually really snug, but today fells pretty chilly even though the heating is on permanently.
Charles is off out in a while to do some bits of Christmassy shopping. I'm staying in, in the vain hope that City Link might deliver the stuff that he and James ordered weeks ago, and which are holed up in their Gateshead warehouse awaiting dispatch - as they have been for days now according to the tracking information.
Our house is usually really snug, but today fells pretty chilly even though the heating is on permanently.
Charles is off out in a while to do some bits of Christmassy shopping. I'm staying in, in the vain hope that City Link might deliver the stuff that he and James ordered weeks ago, and which are holed up in their Gateshead warehouse awaiting dispatch - as they have been for days now according to the tracking information.
Saturday, 18 December 2010
JUST WANT TO THANK MY SON...
... for so kindly sharing his cold (or man flu as he described it) with me. I really appreciate it right now, Jim.
Mind you, other than the streaming nose, I'm feeling pretty good today. It's amazing what a difference it makes when your roots are done!
Morpeth was, predictably I suppose, heaving with Christmas shoppers, and I admit to feeling pretty smug as I made my way through the crowds weighed down by nothing more than a couple of seasonal flower arrangements!
Mind you, other than the streaming nose, I'm feeling pretty good today. It's amazing what a difference it makes when your roots are done!
Morpeth was, predictably I suppose, heaving with Christmas shoppers, and I admit to feeling pretty smug as I made my way through the crowds weighed down by nothing more than a couple of seasonal flower arrangements!
SIMPLE PLEASURES!
Like being able to make a phone call and getting straight onto t'internet, make you feel so much better!
I'm busy warming the mini up for a little visit to Morpeth, and more specifically, to the hairdressers. Can't wait to get get out of the house to be honest.
I'm going to work on James's birthday cake when I get back. All the sugarpaste models are made and have dried out, the cake's made and cooled, so just need to get it covered and finished off.
Charles has decided against the trip to Preston today, very wise I think. he still needs to get over there before Christmas as he has presents and a cake to deliver, but he'll probably go on Tuesday - snow permitting.
Right - I'll go and get sorted out for my little jolly!
Be back later - she said with confidence!
I'm busy warming the mini up for a little visit to Morpeth, and more specifically, to the hairdressers. Can't wait to get get out of the house to be honest.
I'm going to work on James's birthday cake when I get back. All the sugarpaste models are made and have dried out, the cake's made and cooled, so just need to get it covered and finished off.
Charles has decided against the trip to Preston today, very wise I think. he still needs to get over there before Christmas as he has presents and a cake to deliver, but he'll probably go on Tuesday - snow permitting.
Right - I'll go and get sorted out for my little jolly!
Be back later - she said with confidence!
Friday, 17 December 2010
OUR DOGS ARE BONKERS!
Whenever they hear a doorbell on the TV, they bark like crazy and leg itas fast as they can - to our front door!!
JUST HEARD...
... that my brother-in-law got home from work tonight, to find that his house had been burgled.
What sick sort of person does that?
I feel so sorry for them. (Richard and sarah, not the burglars - they should have their hands cut off)
What sick sort of person does that?
I feel so sorry for them. (Richard and sarah, not the burglars - they should have their hands cut off)
YES...
... we are indeed fully restored in terms of communications. Thank goodness!
And we were wrong. The fault wasn't the same as before, but attributed to the cable just outside the house which had suffered damage from the amount of snow we've had. I was seriously worried at one point when the engineer announced that there was also a fault under the floorboards, but he and his mate put all new cabling in without having to disturb anything.
What a relief it is to be back on-line!
And we were wrong. The fault wasn't the same as before, but attributed to the cable just outside the house which had suffered damage from the amount of snow we've had. I was seriously worried at one point when the engineer announced that there was also a fault under the floorboards, but he and his mate put all new cabling in without having to disturb anything.
What a relief it is to be back on-line!
Wednesday, 15 December 2010
PHEW!
Ninety cupcakes and more mince pies than you could shake a stick at, all finished and boxed up by 2pm. Not bad eh?
Just got to make a batch of apple pies now and then the order for tomorrow is complete.
Dreading tomorrow - forecast is lousy - although it may just be the turn of the west to have the most disruptive snow fall this time. Sorry if you live over there, but I have to say "GOOD" because we still haven't got rid of the last lot yet.
Just got to make a batch of apple pies now and then the order for tomorrow is complete.
Dreading tomorrow - forecast is lousy - although it may just be the turn of the west to have the most disruptive snow fall this time. Sorry if you live over there, but I have to say "GOOD" because we still haven't got rid of the last lot yet.
'STARTED EARLY...
...TOOK MY DOG'
is the title of kate Atkinson's latest novel, if you're interested - and, like all her books, well worth a read.
However, that was just a little diversionary tactic on my part, as what I was really going to say was...
...Started early this morning on the big cake order! Baileys cakes are baking now, with lemon and raspberry lined up to follow shortly.
Dozens of mince pies will be made later this morning.
Very busy day!!
is the title of kate Atkinson's latest novel, if you're interested - and, like all her books, well worth a read.
However, that was just a little diversionary tactic on my part, as what I was really going to say was...
...Started early this morning on the big cake order! Baileys cakes are baking now, with lemon and raspberry lined up to follow shortly.
Dozens of mince pies will be made later this morning.
Very busy day!!
Tuesday, 14 December 2010
WHAT'S GOING ON?
Charles's phone hasn't stopped this evening! His staff appear to have gone into Christmas mode and are ordering mince pies and cupcakes as if they're going out of fashion!!
Going to be a busy end to the week after all!!
Going to be a busy end to the week after all!!
HAS IT BEEN LIGHT AT ALL TODAY?
It seems to me it's been dark and miserable all day. It's raining heavily (thank God it's not snow) and I've just been out to bring the bins in, only to find my next door neighbour cleaning her windows. Why would you do that in weather like this?
I'm feeling really sorry for Lily and Rose, who have been confined to the house again all day. Not that THEY seem too bothered! They've snored the day away quite happily.
All the frostings are prepared and wrapped, ready for use tomorrow. Once that delivery's out of the way, there should be a bit of a lull until next week, when I have a baking marathon lined up for Wednesday, so we can get orders out before Christmas Eve.
I've got a huge pot of bolognese bubbling on the hob, but it's just occurred to me that I don't actually have a vast number of people to consume it, nor do I have a single square inch of space in the freezers which is a bit of a pain. How is it, that you can have three fridges and two freezers - and still not have enough room?
Anyway, not to worry. However, I AM slightly worried that I haven't heard from my usually totally relaible son for the last couple of days. Where are you Jim?
I'm feeling really sorry for Lily and Rose, who have been confined to the house again all day. Not that THEY seem too bothered! They've snored the day away quite happily.
All the frostings are prepared and wrapped, ready for use tomorrow. Once that delivery's out of the way, there should be a bit of a lull until next week, when I have a baking marathon lined up for Wednesday, so we can get orders out before Christmas Eve.
I've got a huge pot of bolognese bubbling on the hob, but it's just occurred to me that I don't actually have a vast number of people to consume it, nor do I have a single square inch of space in the freezers which is a bit of a pain. How is it, that you can have three fridges and two freezers - and still not have enough room?
Anyway, not to worry. However, I AM slightly worried that I haven't heard from my usually totally relaible son for the last couple of days. Where are you Jim?
GOOD MORNING!!
Better late than never, as they say.
We do appear to have better connectivity today, which is a good thing, but nothing whatsoever to do with BT who have completely failed to make any sort of contact with us since we first reported the fault a fortnight ago. However, amazingly, I received the first successful phone call on the landline a little while ago(from the Tesco man who'd forgotten where we live! What's wrong with your SATNAV, mate? Or your memory come to that?)
I've spent the early part of the day making vast bowls of frostings for the big cupcake order that goes out on Thursday, so the kitchen is now about an inch deep in icing sugar!
Keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast and praying we don't have more snow at the end of the week. There's too much to do, we haven't got time to be stuck in the house again!
The girls are having their morning nap. Actually to be honest, their naps now extend to pretty much the whole day, apart from a brief 'silly time' between about 4.00 and 6.00pm when they let off steam. This usually coincides with Charles's arrival home from work, and I'm convinced he thinks they're like that all the time!
We do appear to have better connectivity today, which is a good thing, but nothing whatsoever to do with BT who have completely failed to make any sort of contact with us since we first reported the fault a fortnight ago. However, amazingly, I received the first successful phone call on the landline a little while ago(from the Tesco man who'd forgotten where we live! What's wrong with your SATNAV, mate? Or your memory come to that?)
I've spent the early part of the day making vast bowls of frostings for the big cupcake order that goes out on Thursday, so the kitchen is now about an inch deep in icing sugar!
Keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecast and praying we don't have more snow at the end of the week. There's too much to do, we haven't got time to be stuck in the house again!
The girls are having their morning nap. Actually to be honest, their naps now extend to pretty much the whole day, apart from a brief 'silly time' between about 4.00 and 6.00pm when they let off steam. This usually coincides with Charles's arrival home from work, and I'm convinced he thinks they're like that all the time!
Monday, 13 December 2010
OKAY - SERIOUS QUESTION
Most of the time the girls are fabulous...
... but, Rose is becoming absolutely paranoid about certain images on the TV. I've gone through the list before, so won't bore you with the details, but this evening, following one of her manic panics during the adverts, in which she had to confront a cow, a dog, some cartoon figures and Sean the sheep, Charles turned the set off to avoid further trauma.
I said this wasn't the answer and that we mustn't let her dictate what we watch. All well and good, but how do we stop her over-reacting all the time? Should I pick her up and remove her from the room for a period of time-out (but if I do this, Lily always goes through as well, so the effect is somewhat diminished) or do I distract her with training treats?
Seriously, we need help with this. There is nothing else that worries me about their behaviour, but this is really beginning to try our patience.
... but, Rose is becoming absolutely paranoid about certain images on the TV. I've gone through the list before, so won't bore you with the details, but this evening, following one of her manic panics during the adverts, in which she had to confront a cow, a dog, some cartoon figures and Sean the sheep, Charles turned the set off to avoid further trauma.
I said this wasn't the answer and that we mustn't let her dictate what we watch. All well and good, but how do we stop her over-reacting all the time? Should I pick her up and remove her from the room for a period of time-out (but if I do this, Lily always goes through as well, so the effect is somewhat diminished) or do I distract her with training treats?
Seriously, we need help with this. There is nothing else that worries me about their behaviour, but this is really beginning to try our patience.
NO IT WASN'T...
... a delivery. Silly me!
And silly, frantic girls - all they were barking about was the fact that, while they'd been snoozing, a Christmas wreath had appeared outside the front door and this was clearly not meeting with their approval!
I've just managed to get outside into the back garden, still manoevering my way around heaps of snow, but nevertheless, able to see clearly the level of destruction that has been wreaked out there. Our precious Kilmarnock Willow is lying prostrate in the centre bed, shrubs and bushes have branches that are completely sheared off and solid wood garden furniture (okay, it should have been put in the shed) is smashed to bits. That's all I can see from my vantage point on the patio. I'm still unable to get to the bottom of the lawn to check the rest out.
Making batches of mince pies again today. Charles is expecting orders from his staff, so I want to get ahead, especially as I've got 72 cupcakes to do for the end of the week. Fortunately mince pies freeze perfectly. (My only problem is finding space now, as even the new Bad Boy fridge freezer is groaning under the weight of it's contents now!
Hope James is feeling better today. He's had a nasty case of Man Flu for the past few days. Better to get it out of the way before your birthday/Christmas though, eh Jim?
And silly, frantic girls - all they were barking about was the fact that, while they'd been snoozing, a Christmas wreath had appeared outside the front door and this was clearly not meeting with their approval!
I've just managed to get outside into the back garden, still manoevering my way around heaps of snow, but nevertheless, able to see clearly the level of destruction that has been wreaked out there. Our precious Kilmarnock Willow is lying prostrate in the centre bed, shrubs and bushes have branches that are completely sheared off and solid wood garden furniture (okay, it should have been put in the shed) is smashed to bits. That's all I can see from my vantage point on the patio. I'm still unable to get to the bottom of the lawn to check the rest out.
Making batches of mince pies again today. Charles is expecting orders from his staff, so I want to get ahead, especially as I've got 72 cupcakes to do for the end of the week. Fortunately mince pies freeze perfectly. (My only problem is finding space now, as even the new Bad Boy fridge freezer is groaning under the weight of it's contents now!
Hope James is feeling better today. He's had a nasty case of Man Flu for the past few days. Better to get it out of the way before your birthday/Christmas though, eh Jim?
OH GOD!
There's more snow forecast for the end of this week and we haven't even got rid of the first lot yet!
You'll notice I'm able to post this morning. God knows how long that'll last. My sister rang last night - on the mobile, not the landline, obviously) and she pointed out that if BT don't get us sorted out this week, then we're probably going to be in this situation right over Christmas.
The problem is, you never get an opportunity to talk to a real person on the fault line and every time you ring in it just seems to start the process all over again. Hugely annoying.
Well... Charles left the house this morning with three Christmas cakes and a 70th birthday cake. I really hope they travel okay and arrive safely at their destination (the cakes that is) as I would hate them to be damaged in any way. Just hope the recipients like them!!
The girls are busy barking their heads off at something, so I'd better go and see what it is. Could it be a delivery?
You'll notice I'm able to post this morning. God knows how long that'll last. My sister rang last night - on the mobile, not the landline, obviously) and she pointed out that if BT don't get us sorted out this week, then we're probably going to be in this situation right over Christmas.
The problem is, you never get an opportunity to talk to a real person on the fault line and every time you ring in it just seems to start the process all over again. Hugely annoying.
Well... Charles left the house this morning with three Christmas cakes and a 70th birthday cake. I really hope they travel okay and arrive safely at their destination (the cakes that is) as I would hate them to be damaged in any way. Just hope the recipients like them!!
The girls are busy barking their heads off at something, so I'd better go and see what it is. Could it be a delivery?
Sunday, 12 December 2010
QUICK, BEFORE IT ENDS!
I assume we have had some limited connection today, as Charles seems to have been on Facebook, but it's the first time I'VE actually managed to get on.
Mind you, it's been pretty hectic here today (for me, not Charles) - decorated a birthday cake, with a garden theme before 9.30, went to Heighley to get the tree I picked out yesterday, rushed back and decorated four more cakes by mid-afternoon. Then cleaned the house (icing sugar goes eveywhere) and put up the tree. The girls have only paid passing interest in it so far, thank goodness. The problem will come when the do their hooning up and down the length of the living room and have to remember that the tree is right in the middle of their usual cicuit!
Mind you, it's been pretty hectic here today (for me, not Charles) - decorated a birthday cake, with a garden theme before 9.30, went to Heighley to get the tree I picked out yesterday, rushed back and decorated four more cakes by mid-afternoon. Then cleaned the house (icing sugar goes eveywhere) and put up the tree. The girls have only paid passing interest in it so far, thank goodness. The problem will come when the do their hooning up and down the length of the living room and have to remember that the tree is right in the middle of their usual cicuit!
Friday, 10 December 2010
CAN'T BELIEVE THIS!
We're on-line again!
What IS going on?
We know, for a fact, that no-one from BT has actually attempted to rectify the problem. Well, not this year anyway. We have had the same issue on two previous occasions and the fault lies UNDER THE GROUND at the front of the house.
Perhaps if they'd done a proper job of fixing it in the first place, we wouldn't be suffering the inconvenience now.
Anyway, while I'm able to post, I'll just let you know that my girls are absolutely fine. We've got them booked in for Christmas haircuts next week, so they'll be all spruced up for the big day!! (They've got to look their best - Father Christmas is bringing new blingy collars!)
Talking of 'being all spruced up' - hopefully we'll be going tree shopping on Sunday. We're going for the real thing this time, after a dabble with the faux last year, but will be restrained when it comes to choosing the size. I vividly recall choosing a gorgeous little tree from the farm up the road. It was one of those places where you walk about in the forest and the farmer follows behind ready to chop down the tree of your choice. It looked so small but beautifully formed, until we got it home (we DIDN'T actually get it home: the farmer had to put it on his trailer and delivered it for us), where we found that it actually filled the entire dining section of the livingroom and we spent the whole of the festive season limbo-ing round the wretched monstrosity. "Coming through - stand back." We had to buy two set of extra long lights to make it look half decent! By Boxing Day, I couldn't stand the sight of it any longer and I think we dismantled it the next day.
So, we'll be going for something much smaller and neater this time.
What IS going on?
We know, for a fact, that no-one from BT has actually attempted to rectify the problem. Well, not this year anyway. We have had the same issue on two previous occasions and the fault lies UNDER THE GROUND at the front of the house.
Perhaps if they'd done a proper job of fixing it in the first place, we wouldn't be suffering the inconvenience now.
Anyway, while I'm able to post, I'll just let you know that my girls are absolutely fine. We've got them booked in for Christmas haircuts next week, so they'll be all spruced up for the big day!! (They've got to look their best - Father Christmas is bringing new blingy collars!)
Talking of 'being all spruced up' - hopefully we'll be going tree shopping on Sunday. We're going for the real thing this time, after a dabble with the faux last year, but will be restrained when it comes to choosing the size. I vividly recall choosing a gorgeous little tree from the farm up the road. It was one of those places where you walk about in the forest and the farmer follows behind ready to chop down the tree of your choice. It looked so small but beautifully formed, until we got it home (we DIDN'T actually get it home: the farmer had to put it on his trailer and delivered it for us), where we found that it actually filled the entire dining section of the livingroom and we spent the whole of the festive season limbo-ing round the wretched monstrosity. "Coming through - stand back." We had to buy two set of extra long lights to make it look half decent! By Boxing Day, I couldn't stand the sight of it any longer and I think we dismantled it the next day.
So, we'll be going for something much smaller and neater this time.
DON'T BELIEVE THIS!
The internet has now been on for half an hour! How good is that?
I did ring my mum earlier, but only managed to yell, "Testing, testing" to which she replied, "Who are you and what are you testing?"
After a few minutes of confusion we eventually established that I was in fact her eldest daughter and that I was testing the phone line having been cut off for a fortnight. She said she'd left loads of messages, which would account for the fact that our inbox is now full apparently. Of course, we wouldn't be aware of this, not being able to access it, but according to my ister it is. Well, that's all thanks to our mum.
And no sooner had she said, "How ARE you coping?" the line went dead!
I did ring my mum earlier, but only managed to yell, "Testing, testing" to which she replied, "Who are you and what are you testing?"
After a few minutes of confusion we eventually established that I was in fact her eldest daughter and that I was testing the phone line having been cut off for a fortnight. She said she'd left loads of messages, which would account for the fact that our inbox is now full apparently. Of course, we wouldn't be aware of this, not being able to access it, but according to my ister it is. Well, that's all thanks to our mum.
And no sooner had she said, "How ARE you coping?" the line went dead!
MUSTN'T SPEAK TOO SOON, BUT...
... we appear to have something resembling a dialling tone on the phone at present. Not that I've tried it yet - in fact, I may just go and do that now. I haven't spoken to my mum in nearly a fortnight, so I'll give it a try.
Obviously, that is the reason I'm able to make a post, having been frustrated in my attempts all day.
Hopefully, I'll get back on later, but this phone call could take a while!!!
Obviously, that is the reason I'm able to make a post, having been frustrated in my attempts all day.
Hopefully, I'll get back on later, but this phone call could take a while!!!
Thursday, 9 December 2010
I'M STILL HERE...
... JUST HARDLY ANY INTERNET ACCESS TODAY AT ALL.
HOPE TO RESUME NORMAL POSTING ONCE BT PULL THEIR FONGERS OUT AND SORT OUT OUR FAULT!
XXX
HOPE TO RESUME NORMAL POSTING ONCE BT PULL THEIR FONGERS OUT AND SORT OUT OUR FAULT!
XXX
Wednesday, 8 December 2010
GOOD NEWS FOLKS
Tomorrow, the temperature is going to reach the dizzy heights of 4 degrees!!
Wow, can't wait!
Like everyone else I imagine, I've almost forgotten what our garden looks like without it's blanket of snow. Am very worried about two of the trees - one, a miniature willow in the centre bed, is so bowed over with the weight of snow that I really think the roots will have been pulled away and it may never recover. The other, our much prized tree fern, may not survive at all, despite being well wrapped for the winter months. The bamboo, which has been spectacular all year, is now sadly lying at the strangest angle and I hope it will eventually recover it's usual upright position.
We're still worried about potential damage to the shed roof, as I'm sure being under two feet of snow for so long cannot be doing it any good.
Hopefully today, there will be a delivery from Tesco, although I'm quite concerned about how he's going to get everything up the drive. The usual trolley method is pretty much a non-starter as the snow is so banked up against a very narrow track. Anyway, I'm sure he'll have encountered similar conditions elsewhere on his rounds.
Haven't got a clue whether this post will publish as we still have very intermittent internet connectivity, but will give it a go.
Wow, can't wait!
Like everyone else I imagine, I've almost forgotten what our garden looks like without it's blanket of snow. Am very worried about two of the trees - one, a miniature willow in the centre bed, is so bowed over with the weight of snow that I really think the roots will have been pulled away and it may never recover. The other, our much prized tree fern, may not survive at all, despite being well wrapped for the winter months. The bamboo, which has been spectacular all year, is now sadly lying at the strangest angle and I hope it will eventually recover it's usual upright position.
We're still worried about potential damage to the shed roof, as I'm sure being under two feet of snow for so long cannot be doing it any good.
Hopefully today, there will be a delivery from Tesco, although I'm quite concerned about how he's going to get everything up the drive. The usual trolley method is pretty much a non-starter as the snow is so banked up against a very narrow track. Anyway, I'm sure he'll have encountered similar conditions elsewhere on his rounds.
Haven't got a clue whether this post will publish as we still have very intermittent internet connectivity, but will give it a go.
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
STILL NO...
... post or deliveries.
This has gone beyond a joke now. The next thing that won't happen will no doubt be that the bin men will fail to turn up for the second week running and then probably the tesco delivery, rescheduled from last week, will fail to turn up.
Charles is taking my mini to work, leaving his merc on the drive, where it is effectively useless as I can't drive it (can't reach the pedals), so yet again I'm confined to the house. And I have to say, I'm heartily fed up with it now.
To ease the frustration, I've just made a batch of rich fruit cupcakes which a baking right now and permeating the house with that fab Christmassy, fruity, boozy aroma. Very nice.
This has gone beyond a joke now. The next thing that won't happen will no doubt be that the bin men will fail to turn up for the second week running and then probably the tesco delivery, rescheduled from last week, will fail to turn up.
Charles is taking my mini to work, leaving his merc on the drive, where it is effectively useless as I can't drive it (can't reach the pedals), so yet again I'm confined to the house. And I have to say, I'm heartily fed up with it now.
To ease the frustration, I've just made a batch of rich fruit cupcakes which a baking right now and permeating the house with that fab Christmassy, fruity, boozy aroma. Very nice.
SICK OF THIS
I have to keep trying the internet, usually in the vain hope of being connected, but occasionally (like now) find that I can get on without any difficulty.
Fault has been reported to BT - and that's another faff. You ring up, press a load of numbers depending on your problem, and wait for the automated voice (who has claimed to be checking your line! How does she do that? She's not real!) to tell you that...
... there appears to be a fault on your line.
WELL WHY THE HELL DO YOU THINK I'M RINGING YOU UP ON THE FAULT LINE THEN?
Fault has been reported to BT - and that's another faff. You ring up, press a load of numbers depending on your problem, and wait for the automated voice (who has claimed to be checking your line! How does she do that? She's not real!) to tell you that...
... there appears to be a fault on your line.
WELL WHY THE HELL DO YOU THINK I'M RINGING YOU UP ON THE FAULT LINE THEN?
Monday, 6 December 2010
GOOD GRIEF...
... we're back on-line. Still expect it to go off any minute - but will make the most of it while I can.
Gutted by today's news from NUFC. Okay - he may not be the greatest tactician, but Chris Hughton brought stability, integrity and credibility back to our club. He enabled us to hold our heads high again. He didn't deserve to be treated in this way, and I hope he knows that every single fan who was interviewed or sent messages in to SSN spoke of their disgust at the club's actions and thanked him for giving so much to the Toon.
Gutted by today's news from NUFC. Okay - he may not be the greatest tactician, but Chris Hughton brought stability, integrity and credibility back to our club. He enabled us to hold our heads high again. He didn't deserve to be treated in this way, and I hope he knows that every single fan who was interviewed or sent messages in to SSN spoke of their disgust at the club's actions and thanked him for giving so much to the Toon.
QUICK, QUICK, QUICK...
... I have internet connection!
may only last seconds and may cut off before I publish this post.
Just to let you know we are okay and only cut off from the world by phone and email now.
Got to go and check other stuff before I get disconnected again.
The girls are fine!!
may only last seconds and may cut off before I publish this post.
Just to let you know we are okay and only cut off from the world by phone and email now.
Got to go and check other stuff before I get disconnected again.
The girls are fine!!
Saturday, 4 December 2010
LONG DAY
Doesn't time drag when you're stuck in the house?
I'm so glad we started our Christmas preparations early, because we're not getting much done at the moment! Still no post. Why can't he get through when we've already had an Amazon delivery today?
I've got two madeira cakes in the oven now. In fact I'm rapidly filling my freezer up with cakes of various sizes and flavours.
The girls have given up on their boring owners and have taken themselves off for a snooze in their room. (James was amused to hear that the girls have Advent Calendars. Why is that so funny? I thought all dogs had one!)
I'm so glad we started our Christmas preparations early, because we're not getting much done at the moment! Still no post. Why can't he get through when we've already had an Amazon delivery today?
I've got two madeira cakes in the oven now. In fact I'm rapidly filling my freezer up with cakes of various sizes and flavours.
The girls have given up on their boring owners and have taken themselves off for a snooze in their room. (James was amused to hear that the girls have Advent Calendars. Why is that so funny? I thought all dogs had one!)
NOW THE FUN REALLY BEGINS
We've got parts of the guttering tht is now seriously bowed out of shape and pulling away from the wall. Somehow, Charels is going to have to attempt to clearsome of the weight of snow and ice frm here pretty quickly, otherwise the whole lot is going to collapse.
We also have a skating rink at the front of the house, presumably formed from the constant drip of melting snow from the roof. How is it melting in these temperatures?
We had another leaking window last night, this time in the living room, so Charles had to trek round the side of the house to dislodge as much snow as possible. It appears to have done the trick for now.
Don't really have any plans for today, although tomorrow we may try to get into town for a while. Maybe we could meet up with James and Claire for a while.
We also have a skating rink at the front of the house, presumably formed from the constant drip of melting snow from the roof. How is it melting in these temperatures?
We had another leaking window last night, this time in the living room, so Charles had to trek round the side of the house to dislodge as much snow as possible. It appears to have done the trick for now.
Don't really have any plans for today, although tomorrow we may try to get into town for a while. Maybe we could meet up with James and Claire for a while.
Friday, 3 December 2010
VERY LIMITED CONNECTIVITY TODAY
It's taken ages to get onto the internet this morning - and the landline is completely dead.
Charles had a call t about 6.30 this morning to inform him of more fresh snowfall in Blyth. Consequently, plus the fact that the roads are like skating rinks, his school is closed again today.
Actually, the A697 was completely closed outside the village for a time, not just because of the conditions, but in order for a local farmer to move his herd of cattle! We had a little chuckle about that. Bet there aren't many places where this could happen.
The girls have been out for their first proper walk in over a week. If they stay in the tyre tracks they can just about get their little legs moving! Now they're snuggled up in the living room watching daytime TV.
I'm going to make a start on the marzipan and flat icing of two cakes today, although I want to wait to see if my delivery of cake boards actually gets through forst. We had a little window of opportunity yesterday, when the postman actually managed to get through and we took delivery of SOME of the stuff we've been waiting for, but there is still a lot to come. I'll stay at home all day, in the hope that more will indeed arrive, but Charles is going to attempt to get to Morpeth later in the day, once the sun has had a chance to get to work on the icy roads.
Charles had a call t about 6.30 this morning to inform him of more fresh snowfall in Blyth. Consequently, plus the fact that the roads are like skating rinks, his school is closed again today.
Actually, the A697 was completely closed outside the village for a time, not just because of the conditions, but in order for a local farmer to move his herd of cattle! We had a little chuckle about that. Bet there aren't many places where this could happen.
The girls have been out for their first proper walk in over a week. If they stay in the tyre tracks they can just about get their little legs moving! Now they're snuggled up in the living room watching daytime TV.
I'm going to make a start on the marzipan and flat icing of two cakes today, although I want to wait to see if my delivery of cake boards actually gets through forst. We had a little window of opportunity yesterday, when the postman actually managed to get through and we took delivery of SOME of the stuff we've been waiting for, but there is still a lot to come. I'll stay at home all day, in the hope that more will indeed arrive, but Charles is going to attempt to get to Morpeth later in the day, once the sun has had a chance to get to work on the icy roads.
Thursday, 2 December 2010
WHAT A HUGE DISAPPOINTMENT
After all the build-up and hype, the World Cup isn't coming here after all. I'm not going into all the possible reasons for it ending up in Russia, but I'm sure everyone is devastated and hugely disappointed. And not even getting past the first round - it can't be right.
You'll notice we've got our internet back on again. Still pretty spasmodic though and very frustrating.
You'll notice we've got our internet back on again. Still pretty spasmodic though and very frustrating.
HIT AND MISS...
... that's what we're experiencing with our communications connections at the moment.
The house phone has been off for a few hours, and so has the internet. But we appear to have a little window of connectivity just now, so I'm making the most of it.
How good does it feel to be able to get out for a couple of hours? Only to Morpeth, but never mind it certainly lifts the spirits. And there are certainly signs that the snow is beginning to thaw - so all good today! (Apart from the unreliable internet)
The house phone has been off for a few hours, and so has the internet. But we appear to have a little window of connectivity just now, so I'm making the most of it.
How good does it feel to be able to get out for a couple of hours? Only to Morpeth, but never mind it certainly lifts the spirits. And there are certainly signs that the snow is beginning to thaw - so all good today! (Apart from the unreliable internet)
MAY HAVE A PROBLEM HERE
We now appear to have problems with our phone connection. This happens from time to time when we have heavy rain (or snow) and obviously there is a knock on effect for the internet. It's been difficult to get on-line at times this morning and I'm just mentioning it now because there may be periods when I'm not able to post.
And speaking of 'post', apparently there are some deliveries in the village today, but nothing will be coming to our estate yet. If I am able to go to the sorting office in Morpeth I can collect stuff myself, but clearly this is still an issue as my mini is buried under at least two feet of snow and there is a huge montain of the stuff to dig out before it can be moved at all. Christina MAY come and pick me up in here 4x4 and take me out for a bit of respite, but I'm not holding my breath for that.
(Oh - take that last bit back - she's here!)
And speaking of 'post', apparently there are some deliveries in the village today, but nothing will be coming to our estate yet. If I am able to go to the sorting office in Morpeth I can collect stuff myself, but clearly this is still an issue as my mini is buried under at least two feet of snow and there is a huge montain of the stuff to dig out before it can be moved at all. Christina MAY come and pick me up in here 4x4 and take me out for a bit of respite, but I'm not holding my breath for that.
(Oh - take that last bit back - she's here!)
DON'T KNOW...
... what to write about this morning!
Nthing much is happening, apart from further vernight snow and the constsnt drip drip, Chinese water torture over the leaking bathroom window.
I've had a pretty restless night, not having actually got to bed until well after midnight as I was busy booking my Christmas week slot from Tesco and had to secure it by placing an order! I couldn't face doing the lot, so just stuck a turkey in the basket and left it at that, ready to add more later on! But, just before turning in for the nigt I emptied the bowl that's positioned to catch the drips, noticed that it was filling up pretty rapidly, so than got up every hour or so to empty it during the night.
Needless to say, I'm not exactly feeling bright-eyed and bushy-tailed this morning.
Charles, whose school is closed today, has staggered down to the village shop and stocked up on the essentials. Hopefully he'll clear the drive again, get the cars cleared and tackle the roof over the bathroom once more. With luck - and I know I've said this before to no avail - there should be little fresh snowfall today.
Dannymatt thinks cabin fever is setting in here. He is SO right. I'm wearing tracks in the carpet from pacing around aimlessly!
Nthing much is happening, apart from further vernight snow and the constsnt drip drip, Chinese water torture over the leaking bathroom window.
I've had a pretty restless night, not having actually got to bed until well after midnight as I was busy booking my Christmas week slot from Tesco and had to secure it by placing an order! I couldn't face doing the lot, so just stuck a turkey in the basket and left it at that, ready to add more later on! But, just before turning in for the nigt I emptied the bowl that's positioned to catch the drips, noticed that it was filling up pretty rapidly, so than got up every hour or so to empty it during the night.
Needless to say, I'm not exactly feeling bright-eyed and bushy-tailed this morning.
Charles, whose school is closed today, has staggered down to the village shop and stocked up on the essentials. Hopefully he'll clear the drive again, get the cars cleared and tackle the roof over the bathroom once more. With luck - and I know I've said this before to no avail - there should be little fresh snowfall today.
Dannymatt thinks cabin fever is setting in here. He is SO right. I'm wearing tracks in the carpet from pacing around aimlessly!
Wednesday, 1 December 2010
HELPFUL HENRY
Yes - Henry at Tesco (the very nice young man who dealt with my concerns when I eventually managed to get through!) has rearranged my delivery without me having to do the whole order again. Admittedly it won't arrive for a week, but as most of it was to put in the Christmas store cupboards, it doesn't really matter.
The snow has continued really heavily today and Charles is fighting a losing battle trying to keep the drive clear. It's just not happening.
The girls are pacing the house (as I am also) and clearly don't know what to do with themselves (neither do I)
Can't settle to read, which is very unlike me and I just feel permanently anxious. This might have something to do with the fact that we now have water dripping into the bathroom between the tiles over the window. Charles has attempted to clear the snow from that section of the roof (good job we live in a bungalow) but it's still coming in. I've got towels draped all along the window ledge and am just hoping the tiles stay in place.
Seriously considering changing one of our cars for a 4 X 4 as they seem to be the only vehicles that are coping with the conditions. In fact, that is what I'll do now! (Don't worry Charles - I'll just have a look!)
The snow has continued really heavily today and Charles is fighting a losing battle trying to keep the drive clear. It's just not happening.
The girls are pacing the house (as I am also) and clearly don't know what to do with themselves (neither do I)
Can't settle to read, which is very unlike me and I just feel permanently anxious. This might have something to do with the fact that we now have water dripping into the bathroom between the tiles over the window. Charles has attempted to clear the snow from that section of the roof (good job we live in a bungalow) but it's still coming in. I've got towels draped all along the window ledge and am just hoping the tiles stay in place.
Seriously considering changing one of our cars for a 4 X 4 as they seem to be the only vehicles that are coping with the conditions. In fact, that is what I'll do now! (Don't worry Charles - I'll just have a look!)
UNSURPRISINGLY...
Tesco have cancelled the delivery, although the status on my account says it has been delivered. So now I have to check that I haven't been charged for this order - but can I get through to anyone? You guessed it!
While I'm not at all surprised, I am pretty tee-ed off now.
While I'm not at all surprised, I am pretty tee-ed off now.
GOOD MORNING...
... JAMES AND CLAIRE!
I know you both read the blog, so just want you to know that we're missing you!!!
Can't wait to get out and see you both again.
We had a JCB round last night trying to clear the road, but this morning you would never know it had been there. Charles is currently digging out the drive again (good exercise!) but as soon as he clears it, we get another dump of snow!
Hope the apartment is coming along okay and that you both really feel at home now. Hopefully, we'll get to meet up with you before too long
xxx
I know you both read the blog, so just want you to know that we're missing you!!!
Can't wait to get out and see you both again.
We had a JCB round last night trying to clear the road, but this morning you would never know it had been there. Charles is currently digging out the drive again (good exercise!) but as soon as he clears it, we get another dump of snow!
Hope the apartment is coming along okay and that you both really feel at home now. Hopefully, we'll get to meet up with you before too long
xxx
MORE SNOW OVERNIGHT
This is seriously beyond a joke now.
There I was thinking the end was insight - and we woke up to another heavy fall, with snow falling continuously since we got up this morning.
It was interesting to see Longfram on the national news last night - a fine example of community spirit and neighbourliness. (By the way James, did you see Duncan on the local news report the other day, trying to get out of Morpeth to go to Rothbury?)
Possibly foolishly, I placed a Tesco order which is due for delivery this morning. So far I've had no contact to indicate that it won't arrive, but if it does we'll have to trek out to the kerbside to help to get everything in. However, I'm fully expecting to be told it won't be arriving.
There I was thinking the end was insight - and we woke up to another heavy fall, with snow falling continuously since we got up this morning.
It was interesting to see Longfram on the national news last night - a fine example of community spirit and neighbourliness. (By the way James, did you see Duncan on the local news report the other day, trying to get out of Morpeth to go to Rothbury?)
Possibly foolishly, I placed a Tesco order which is due for delivery this morning. So far I've had no contact to indicate that it won't arrive, but if it does we'll have to trek out to the kerbside to help to get everything in. However, I'm fully expecting to be told it won't be arriving.
Tuesday, 30 November 2010
RESCUE IN SIGHT!
HOORAY!!
There's a great big snow plough (well, it's a JCB with a plough on the front actually) outside our house digging us out. It's taken about half an hour to get from the corner to our drive which just goes to show how much snow there is to scoop up but it should make things a bit easier in the morning. God knows how long it'll take to do the rest of the estate!
There's a great big snow plough (well, it's a JCB with a plough on the front actually) outside our house digging us out. It's taken about half an hour to get from the corner to our drive which just goes to show how much snow there is to scoop up but it should make things a bit easier in the morning. God knows how long it'll take to do the rest of the estate!
MUST BE DESPERATE NOW
So fed up of being confined to the house, I've resorted to sorting out the utility room and all those drawers where things just get shoved for sorting out later. The problem is, they never DO get sorted out and just pile up higher and higher, resulting in a mammoth task that is easier to avoid than actually tackle.
Still no postman today, although we have had a delivery via a courier, who said that the A697 is passable with cre, but the Royal Mail aren't letting their postmen out yet. I have an image of dozens of frustrated postmen, locked away in some gigantic sorting office, pleading to be allowed out to make their deliveries. The thing is, by the time they DO get back on the road, I'm going to need a mail van just for MY stuff!
I was beginning to think that the thaw had set in. In fact, in fairness, I CAN actually see some hints of green in the garden now, so there must be some thawing going on. BUT I've just checked out the forecast from the Met Office and it would appear that we are due for another snowfall and have a 'flash warning' hanging over us for the next couple of days. That was not there when I checked first thing this morning.
Okay - what can I do next? Might sort out my winter clothes!!
Still no postman today, although we have had a delivery via a courier, who said that the A697 is passable with cre, but the Royal Mail aren't letting their postmen out yet. I have an image of dozens of frustrated postmen, locked away in some gigantic sorting office, pleading to be allowed out to make their deliveries. The thing is, by the time they DO get back on the road, I'm going to need a mail van just for MY stuff!
I was beginning to think that the thaw had set in. In fact, in fairness, I CAN actually see some hints of green in the garden now, so there must be some thawing going on. BUT I've just checked out the forecast from the Met Office and it would appear that we are due for another snowfall and have a 'flash warning' hanging over us for the next couple of days. That was not there when I checked first thing this morning.
Okay - what can I do next? Might sort out my winter clothes!!
TEN MINUTES AFTER THAT...
... and after valiant attempts by neighbours, he managed eventually to move away from his precarious position across the road, moved about a hundred feet and turned round to return home again.
FIVE MINUTES LATER...
... Charles's car is now straddling the only entrance to Cheviot Lodge and isn't going anywhere!
THIS IS IT!
Time for Charles to attempt to move the car from the drive. Hope he has more success than poor old Outed Dannymatt did last night!
He's been out there digging again first thing, the engines been warming up for half an hour, he's consumed a hearty breakfast (well, two pieces of toast) and is gearing up for the Big Adventure.
Thankfully, there was only a light covering of snow during the night, so MAYBE things are going to return to normal soon. I was having a little chuckle at all the southern softies who are just now experiencing an inch of snow. Shame!
Haven't got a clue what I'm going to do today. I (yes ME - not Charles) got most of the cards written last night. I don't really have any baking to do, although it doesn't do any harm to stick a few more cakes in the freezer, so I could do that.
I'm hoping there will be a Tesco delivery tomorrow and possibly some post today as I'm waiting with excited anticipation for deliveries of Christmas presents (not for me you understand).
Okay - Charles has just announced that he's going to set off. Good luck Charles. Take care!
He's been out there digging again first thing, the engines been warming up for half an hour, he's consumed a hearty breakfast (well, two pieces of toast) and is gearing up for the Big Adventure.
Thankfully, there was only a light covering of snow during the night, so MAYBE things are going to return to normal soon. I was having a little chuckle at all the southern softies who are just now experiencing an inch of snow. Shame!
Haven't got a clue what I'm going to do today. I (yes ME - not Charles) got most of the cards written last night. I don't really have any baking to do, although it doesn't do any harm to stick a few more cakes in the freezer, so I could do that.
I'm hoping there will be a Tesco delivery tomorrow and possibly some post today as I'm waiting with excited anticipation for deliveries of Christmas presents (not for me you understand).
Okay - Charles has just announced that he's going to set off. Good luck Charles. Take care!
Monday, 29 November 2010
CAN'T BEAR THE THOUGHT...
... of this weather going on much longer and am beginning to feel the stress of being under house arrest for five days.
With luck, the next snow dump will be over somewhere else this time, so we can start getting back to some sort of normality. The postman hasn't ventured into the village since Friday! This may be good if it means not getting bills and the like - but when you're expecting exciting packages it's a bit frustrating.
I've spent most of the day filling the freezer up with goodies for Christmas.may as well - there's not much else I can do. (The Christmas cards are still lying forlornly in their packs I'm afraid!)
With luck, the next snow dump will be over somewhere else this time, so we can start getting back to some sort of normality. The postman hasn't ventured into the village since Friday! This may be good if it means not getting bills and the like - but when you're expecting exciting packages it's a bit frustrating.
I've spent most of the day filling the freezer up with goodies for Christmas.may as well - there's not much else I can do. (The Christmas cards are still lying forlornly in their packs I'm afraid!)
THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG!
It's all very well having all the white stuff - we've had a further six inches during the night, with more forecast for today - but what on earth is going to happen when the thaw starts? Not that I can see that happening any time soon, but I was just wondering.
I don't think I've ever seen as much snow in Longfram during all the years we've lived here.
Charles's school is closed today, along with many others, so as he's at home I think we'll make a start on writing Christmas cards!
I don't think I've ever seen as much snow in Longfram during all the years we've lived here.
Charles's school is closed today, along with many others, so as he's at home I think we'll make a start on writing Christmas cards!
Sunday, 28 November 2010
SPENT THE MORNING...
... making all the sugarpaste cutouts ready for Christmas cakes. There should be more than enough now, so it's been a morning well spent.
TRYING NOT TO...
... watch the match! Can't bear it. Will wait till it's over, then will watch the recording.
However, can't avoid watching the snow which is coming down hard again. According to the Met Office there could be another 40cms this evening! Where will it fit?
However, can't avoid watching the snow which is coming down hard again. According to the Met Office there could be another 40cms this evening! Where will it fit?
Saturday, 27 November 2010
CRAZY DRIVING CONDITIONS
Well, we went into Morpeth at lunchtime and discovered that the A697 was still only just passable. Even the main road in Morpeth town centre was lethal and there was little evidence that a plough had been through.
I must admit we began to doubt the sense of making the journey at all, but fortunately, by the time we'd got warmed up with a coffee in Costa and finished our shopping, there was some slight improvement in the conditions.
We've spent a quiet afternoon just mooching about the house, praying that the next predicted snowfall by-passes us.
I've had another order for a Christmas cake this evening. I'm really pleased about this as I thoroughly enjoy doing them. It certainly satisfies my creative streak! Tomorrow I'll make a large number of sugarpaste cutouts ready to dry out before I need them for the cakes.
Looking forward to a relaxed evening in front of the telly now.
I must admit we began to doubt the sense of making the journey at all, but fortunately, by the time we'd got warmed up with a coffee in Costa and finished our shopping, there was some slight improvement in the conditions.
We've spent a quiet afternoon just mooching about the house, praying that the next predicted snowfall by-passes us.
I've had another order for a Christmas cake this evening. I'm really pleased about this as I thoroughly enjoy doing them. It certainly satisfies my creative streak! Tomorrow I'll make a large number of sugarpaste cutouts ready to dry out before I need them for the cakes.
Looking forward to a relaxed evening in front of the telly now.
SO, DO WE RISK...
... leaving the village?
There's very little traffic moving, understandably, but I can't help thinking that if we don't go shortly we may miss our window of opportunity!!
Charles seems less keen to go anywhere however, and is contentedly sitting in front of the TV watching ridiculous films, while I'm pacing about like a caged animal. I know what'll happen - we'll venture out and then get stuck AND IT'LL ALL BE MY FAULT.
Am seriously fed up and need to get out.
There's very little traffic moving, understandably, but I can't help thinking that if we don't go shortly we may miss our window of opportunity!!
Charles seems less keen to go anywhere however, and is contentedly sitting in front of the TV watching ridiculous films, while I'm pacing about like a caged animal. I know what'll happen - we'll venture out and then get stuck AND IT'LL ALL BE MY FAULT.
Am seriously fed up and need to get out.
I'M GUESSING...
... we won't be going to the match tomorrow, judging by the fact that we've had more overnight snow (35cms lying now) and there is supposed to be even more during this afternoon and tonight.
I wonder if the game will go ahead?
Charles has gone out to clear the drive - again - in the hope that we might be able to take advantage of the present lull in the snow and get to Morpeth for vital supplies. I've got a horrid feeling that we may lose electricity if things get much worse, as we've already seen the lights dip a few times this morning. We'll probably struggle to find one, but this would be the time to buy a portable gas heater as emergency back up, especially as everything in our house runs on electricity.
As for the girls - they are pretty fed up with being under what amounts to house arrest for four days now. They enjoy playing in their little area of the garden, sliding down their mountain range, but other than that they're not getting out nearly as much as they usually do.
I wonder if the game will go ahead?
Charles has gone out to clear the drive - again - in the hope that we might be able to take advantage of the present lull in the snow and get to Morpeth for vital supplies. I've got a horrid feeling that we may lose electricity if things get much worse, as we've already seen the lights dip a few times this morning. We'll probably struggle to find one, but this would be the time to buy a portable gas heater as emergency back up, especially as everything in our house runs on electricity.
As for the girls - they are pretty fed up with being under what amounts to house arrest for four days now. They enjoy playing in their little area of the garden, sliding down their mountain range, but other than that they're not getting out nearly as much as they usually do.
Friday, 26 November 2010
AND HE CAME HOME...
... with empty cake crates!!
Well done Croftway staff - I hope you enjoy your cupcakes and goodies.
Well done Croftway staff - I hope you enjoy your cupcakes and goodies.
MAY LOOK LIKE...
... a picture postcard, but after another four inches (at least) of the white stuff last night - and more coming down right now - it's really beginning to look as if the postman may have been right the other day when he cheerily informed me that this was going to be the worst winter in 100 years.
We must have as much snow lying now as we did during the worst of the winter last year. It's quite incredible considering were still in November.
Charles has just left for school although he may be back sooner than he imagines if this current blizzard continues. I think he's still getting over the fact that he had to be dug out of the Village Hall car park last night after we had unloaded our crates. He then refused, quite rightly, to bring the car park to pick me up, so we made journey after journey on foot, carrying all the stuff back home again. He was somewhat less than impressed!
We must have as much snow lying now as we did during the worst of the winter last year. It's quite incredible considering were still in November.
Charles has just left for school although he may be back sooner than he imagines if this current blizzard continues. I think he's still getting over the fact that he had to be dug out of the Village Hall car park last night after we had unloaded our crates. He then refused, quite rightly, to bring the car park to pick me up, so we made journey after journey on foot, carrying all the stuff back home again. He was somewhat less than impressed!
Thursday, 25 November 2010
WHAT A LET DOWN
Okay - the weather was awful. I totally accept that. But the fact that, out of the 20 expected stallholders, only five turned up and the others didn't even bother to send apologies, was pretty disappointing.
As for customers - well if there were thirty all night I'd be very surprised.
Having said that I did sell a lot of cakes and took orders for Christmas, so came away with a reasonable profit considering.
Quite a few people took cards and showed a lot of interest, so that was encouraging. I suppose it will build gradually.
Now - what on earth am I going to do with all the leftover stuff? Looking at the weather at the moment, I'd be extremely surprised if Charles gets to work tomorrow as the Rothbury Road is impassable, so he probably won't be taking them to school with him.
Anyway, that's all the excitement out of the way for a while. I've got a small order to do for Saturday and a Christmas cake to get started, but that's about it for now.
Talking about saturday, the girls are off for a pamper day and should come home neatly trimmed (not too short, they'll get cold) and coiffed and smelling of baby powder. Lovely.
As for customers - well if there were thirty all night I'd be very surprised.
Having said that I did sell a lot of cakes and took orders for Christmas, so came away with a reasonable profit considering.
Quite a few people took cards and showed a lot of interest, so that was encouraging. I suppose it will build gradually.
Now - what on earth am I going to do with all the leftover stuff? Looking at the weather at the moment, I'd be extremely surprised if Charles gets to work tomorrow as the Rothbury Road is impassable, so he probably won't be taking them to school with him.
Anyway, that's all the excitement out of the way for a while. I've got a small order to do for Saturday and a Christmas cake to get started, but that's about it for now.
Talking about saturday, the girls are off for a pamper day and should come home neatly trimmed (not too short, they'll get cold) and coiffed and smelling of baby powder. Lovely.
WELL...
...I'm assuming the event this evening is going ahead - although how many people will venture out is yet to be seen.
Everything is boxed up ready to go and Charles has provided a neat little cash box for all the dosh I'm going to take!!! (finger's crossed)
The girls are having a quiet afternoon, settled in front of the TV - Lily snoozing, Rose watching everything that is going on. They're going to have to be good girls for a few hours this evening as Charles is coming with me to help, so they'll be on their own for a while.
Going to go and start setting up in about an hour - getting quite excited now!
Everything is boxed up ready to go and Charles has provided a neat little cash box for all the dosh I'm going to take!!! (finger's crossed)
The girls are having a quiet afternoon, settled in front of the TV - Lily snoozing, Rose watching everything that is going on. They're going to have to be good girls for a few hours this evening as Charles is coming with me to help, so they'll be on their own for a while.
Going to go and start setting up in about an hour - getting quite excited now!
HMMM!
Not looking good weather-wise this morning.
The A697 is closed, thanks to a fallen tree and cars getting stuck on Weldon Bank, so Charles and James haven't gone anywhere yet.
I'm looking at boxes and boxes of cakes and just praying that this evening's event goes ahead - AND that people venture out in the appalling conditions.
My girls have been little snow dogs this morning. They've got their padded coats on and are having great fun, digging in the snow drifts and skidding about on the ice. As there's no way they'll be going for a proper walk (the snow is up to their tummies) just yet, it's good that they're getting SOME exercise.
Charles has ventured out to the village shop to see if he can find out what's going on with the roads! James is spending his unexpected leisure time checking out the deals on Amazon!!
And me - I'm just worrying (and faffing!)
The A697 is closed, thanks to a fallen tree and cars getting stuck on Weldon Bank, so Charles and James haven't gone anywhere yet.
I'm looking at boxes and boxes of cakes and just praying that this evening's event goes ahead - AND that people venture out in the appalling conditions.
My girls have been little snow dogs this morning. They've got their padded coats on and are having great fun, digging in the snow drifts and skidding about on the ice. As there's no way they'll be going for a proper walk (the snow is up to their tummies) just yet, it's good that they're getting SOME exercise.
Charles has ventured out to the village shop to see if he can find out what's going on with the roads! James is spending his unexpected leisure time checking out the deals on Amazon!!
And me - I'm just worrying (and faffing!)
Wednesday, 24 November 2010
AND YET MORE SNOW!
In fact, the driving conditions are so bad that James, who probably should never have driven up here for his tea considering the state of the roads, has returned here having set off for Gosforth, but only getting as far as Longhorsley.
In truth, there is barely any snow actually lying in Fram, but regardless, things have ground to a shuddering halt.
I'm really hoping that the weather holds off tomorrow as the last thing I want is for the Christmas Shopping Evening to be cancelled. If it IS I have dozens of cakes and goodies to dispose of somehow.
The girls have been pretty stir crazy this evening, having been forced to spend the entire day indoors. having said that, Lily is snuggling up with James and Rose is watching the Man Utd match so all is relatively settled now.
So, fingers crossed for a big thaw overnight then!
In truth, there is barely any snow actually lying in Fram, but regardless, things have ground to a shuddering halt.
I'm really hoping that the weather holds off tomorrow as the last thing I want is for the Christmas Shopping Evening to be cancelled. If it IS I have dozens of cakes and goodies to dispose of somehow.
The girls have been pretty stir crazy this evening, having been forced to spend the entire day indoors. having said that, Lily is snuggling up with James and Rose is watching the Man Utd match so all is relatively settled now.
So, fingers crossed for a big thaw overnight then!
SNOW!
Well, it's arrived as predicted.
The funny thing is, it hardly seems five minutes since the last lot. Is that because winter went on forever last year, or just a sign of my age as things tend to speed up the older one gets?
I'm waiting for the man from Tesco, the 'Bag and Box' man with my packaging AND the man with the Cakes A-Go-Go caps to arrive.
I'm also getting ready for a bit of a cupcake marathon today!
Annoyingly, I'm still waiting to hear from the organisers of Swarland First School's Christmas Fair to find out if I can have a stall there on Saturday. If I CAN then there will be a lot more to prepare after tomorrows little event! So I need to know NOW!
The funny thing is, it hardly seems five minutes since the last lot. Is that because winter went on forever last year, or just a sign of my age as things tend to speed up the older one gets?
I'm waiting for the man from Tesco, the 'Bag and Box' man with my packaging AND the man with the Cakes A-Go-Go caps to arrive.
I'm also getting ready for a bit of a cupcake marathon today!
Annoyingly, I'm still waiting to hear from the organisers of Swarland First School's Christmas Fair to find out if I can have a stall there on Saturday. If I CAN then there will be a lot more to prepare after tomorrows little event! So I need to know NOW!
Tuesday, 23 November 2010
ANOTHER...
... busy day at the Cake Factory!
Mince pies - check. Appe tarts - check. Bakewells - check. Shortbread biscuits shaped like tree decorations - check. (Thought these would be great un-iced for the Mother and Toddler group and would make a rainy day pastime just before hanging on the tree. (The biscuits, not the toddlers or the Mother come to that.)
Tomorrow, it's cupcakes, although I have already made a batch of chocolate ones that keep well for days, so it's just vanilla, lemon and raspberry but in large quantities.
I'm toying with the idea of using the cupcake stand as a centrepiece. It's a bit of a faff to assemble, but will display them pretty effectively.
Moving onto the girls - they've had another brilliant day, but are just letting off steam in the sitting room chasing up and down frantically. All good exercise!
Mince pies - check. Appe tarts - check. Bakewells - check. Shortbread biscuits shaped like tree decorations - check. (Thought these would be great un-iced for the Mother and Toddler group and would make a rainy day pastime just before hanging on the tree. (The biscuits, not the toddlers or the Mother come to that.)
Tomorrow, it's cupcakes, although I have already made a batch of chocolate ones that keep well for days, so it's just vanilla, lemon and raspberry but in large quantities.
I'm toying with the idea of using the cupcake stand as a centrepiece. It's a bit of a faff to assemble, but will display them pretty effectively.
Moving onto the girls - they've had another brilliant day, but are just letting off steam in the sitting room chasing up and down frantically. All good exercise!
Monday, 22 November 2010
THIS IS THE FIRST TIME...
... I've a) sat down and b) looked at t'internet - all day!
had a very productive time thought. Have iced and decorated four Christmas cakes which will either sell on Thursday or, if they don't, I can use one for the family cake and the others can be given as gifts.
Tomorrow, it's a day of mince pies, apple pies and bakewell tarts, with some festive gingerbread thrown in for good measure.
Yet again, the girls have been as good as gold and have just pottered around while I've been busy. Thinking back to this time last year, when I was tearing my hair out, I could never have imagined how much more placid and biddable they would become.
Love 'em to bits!
had a very productive time thought. Have iced and decorated four Christmas cakes which will either sell on Thursday or, if they don't, I can use one for the family cake and the others can be given as gifts.
Tomorrow, it's a day of mince pies, apple pies and bakewell tarts, with some festive gingerbread thrown in for good measure.
Yet again, the girls have been as good as gold and have just pottered around while I've been busy. Thinking back to this time last year, when I was tearing my hair out, I could never have imagined how much more placid and biddable they would become.
Love 'em to bits!
Sunday, 21 November 2010
'WHERE'VE YOU BEEN?' YOU MAY WELL ASK!!
Well, what started out as a brief trip to town with Claire and James turned into a bit of a shopping marathon!
We got to the new apartment at 10.30 - and very nice it is too. Fab location, with a great view over the rugby club. Plenty of space for the two of them. It's perfect.
We then sat in traffic for ages as we joined the other early Christmas shoppers. Three of us left Charles in the car and got started on breakfast. Not as callous as you might think - he insisted, and eventually managed to join us although by the time he did so, breakfast had finished and he was on the lunch menu!!
Then we shopped! A lot! For hours, stopping only for a mango smoothie before recommencing with an all out attack on Guess and the Apple store.
By 3pm I was shattered and feeling extremely guilty about leaving my girls for so long. We practcally threw James and Claire out of the car (only joking you two!) and got back to two very quiet, sullen little dogs who were NOT impressed at having been left on their own all day!
We got to the new apartment at 10.30 - and very nice it is too. Fab location, with a great view over the rugby club. Plenty of space for the two of them. It's perfect.
We then sat in traffic for ages as we joined the other early Christmas shoppers. Three of us left Charles in the car and got started on breakfast. Not as callous as you might think - he insisted, and eventually managed to join us although by the time he did so, breakfast had finished and he was on the lunch menu!!
Then we shopped! A lot! For hours, stopping only for a mango smoothie before recommencing with an all out attack on Guess and the Apple store.
By 3pm I was shattered and feeling extremely guilty about leaving my girls for so long. We practcally threw James and Claire out of the car (only joking you two!) and got back to two very quiet, sullen little dogs who were NOT impressed at having been left on their own all day!
Saturday, 20 November 2010
MISERABLE, WET, GREY...
... start to the day.
The girls haven't been out for their early walk yet, but we can't put it off much longer.
We've decided that every time Rose has a barking fit at the adverts, we're just going to pick her up and remove her from the living room, putting her into the breakfastroom on her own until she calms down. Hopefully,after a few repetitions, she'll connect the cause and effect and cease her protestations.
Later this morning, Charles and I are going into Morpeth. I've got to do boring old food shopping, but also need a few bits for cake prep this week. Tomorrow, we're off to see James and Claire's new apartment, going out for a late breakfast, followed by some Christmas shopping in town. Sounds like a good plan to me.
On Monday I'm going to ice and decorate a few small fruit cakes ready for the Christmas shopping evening on Thursday. I've decided to make really small ones, that won't come in at extortionate cost and may be tempting for people to buy on the night. On the other hand they'll also get an idea of what I can do and may place an order for closer to Christmas. Fingers crossed anyway!
The girls haven't been out for their early walk yet, but we can't put it off much longer.
We've decided that every time Rose has a barking fit at the adverts, we're just going to pick her up and remove her from the living room, putting her into the breakfastroom on her own until she calms down. Hopefully,after a few repetitions, she'll connect the cause and effect and cease her protestations.
Later this morning, Charles and I are going into Morpeth. I've got to do boring old food shopping, but also need a few bits for cake prep this week. Tomorrow, we're off to see James and Claire's new apartment, going out for a late breakfast, followed by some Christmas shopping in town. Sounds like a good plan to me.
On Monday I'm going to ice and decorate a few small fruit cakes ready for the Christmas shopping evening on Thursday. I've decided to make really small ones, that won't come in at extortionate cost and may be tempting for people to buy on the night. On the other hand they'll also get an idea of what I can do and may place an order for closer to Christmas. Fingers crossed anyway!
Friday, 19 November 2010
BACK HOME NOW...
...and all went really well this evening.
The cupcakes proved a real success and all disappeared pretty smartish.
also met up with the photographer from 'Living North' who asked if I would let her take photos of the wedding cupcakes as she is wanting to get into wedding photography. She would show prospective happy couples the photos and would flag up my business as well. Sounds like a good deal to me.
The cupcakes proved a real success and all disappeared pretty smartish.
also met up with the photographer from 'Living North' who asked if I would let her take photos of the wedding cupcakes as she is wanting to get into wedding photography. She would show prospective happy couples the photos and would flag up my business as well. Sounds like a good deal to me.
TWIDDLING MY THUMBS NOW!
Well actually I can only twiddle ONE thumb, as I'm about to lose the nail on my left one and it is causing me some discomfort AND great inconvenience, being a south-paw. The nail is hanging by a thread and is being kept covered under those blue plasters of which I get through about six a day. The thing is the nail is quite long now, but I can't cut it because it'll lift the other end. I'm sure it'll be off within a matter of days and then I'll be left with a sore, raw bit. Yuk!
Anyway, the reason I'm twiddling my thumb is that I've got all the buffet food ready and boxed up and just have to wait a couple of hours before setting off to Morpeth.
I am, though, plannng the stall for the Christmas Shopping Evening in the village hall next Thursday. This is quite difficult, as Christmas cupcakes need to be on display so that people can place orders, but it's a bit early for people to be actually buying them.
I've decided to make a few from each of the Christmas ranges, but to make more of the 'ordinary, everyday' cakes which people may feel are more appropriate for November. I'll also make mince pies, bakewells and apple pies all of which can be frozen. I may, if I have time, decorate a couple of Christmas cakes, in case anyone is interested in having their cake done for them this year - although they won't be cheap!
I could make more, but have no idea how many people are likely to attend and don't want to end up with loads of waste, although I have promised to take some samples to the hairdressers in Morpeth, so could do that if there are any leftover.
Anyway, the reason I'm twiddling my thumb is that I've got all the buffet food ready and boxed up and just have to wait a couple of hours before setting off to Morpeth.
I am, though, plannng the stall for the Christmas Shopping Evening in the village hall next Thursday. This is quite difficult, as Christmas cupcakes need to be on display so that people can place orders, but it's a bit early for people to be actually buying them.
I've decided to make a few from each of the Christmas ranges, but to make more of the 'ordinary, everyday' cakes which people may feel are more appropriate for November. I'll also make mince pies, bakewells and apple pies all of which can be frozen. I may, if I have time, decorate a couple of Christmas cakes, in case anyone is interested in having their cake done for them this year - although they won't be cheap!
I could make more, but have no idea how many people are likely to attend and don't want to end up with loads of waste, although I have promised to take some samples to the hairdressers in Morpeth, so could do that if there are any leftover.
Thursday, 18 November 2010
BIT OF A MANIC EVENING...
...yesterday.
James and Claire had spent a very hectic day moving into their new place, only to discover that they needed bedding from here, stuff that James had stored away some time ago. This necessitated some lengthy visits (by me) to the loft in an attempt to find said items. I actually found nothing up there despite all my efforts, but did have a good rummage through all the Christmas stuff! You forget what you've got, don't you? I think I could give Fenwicks a run for their money in the decoration department and certainly won't need to spend any more money on buying new stuff.
In the end I found the required items in bedroom drawers, just in time for the very tired couple to arrive, have a cuppa, collapse on the sofa for a few minutes and then wend their weary way back hone to Gosforth.
All this was happening while England were losing to France, a match that certainly seemed to disappoint, although it sounds as if Andy Carroll had a reasonable debut.
I've got a relatively quiet day today - the lull before the storm in fact. I can't do any more buffet prep until tomorrow when all the fillings can be done. It's a question of getting the timing just right, to ensure that nothing goes soggy, but everything is ready in plenty of time to pack up. I quickly learned from the last occassion, that packing stuff takes a lot longer than one might imagine, so need to allow plenty of time for that tomorrow.
I'm really pleased with the cupcakes I've made. I've just done three flavours - Baileys, chocolate and raspberry, but they look pretty impressive, even if I say so myself. In fact, I left one lonely little Baileys cake out in the kitchen last night and when I went though this morning I was greeted with the fabulous aroma of coffee, whiskey and cream. Gorgeous!
James and Claire had spent a very hectic day moving into their new place, only to discover that they needed bedding from here, stuff that James had stored away some time ago. This necessitated some lengthy visits (by me) to the loft in an attempt to find said items. I actually found nothing up there despite all my efforts, but did have a good rummage through all the Christmas stuff! You forget what you've got, don't you? I think I could give Fenwicks a run for their money in the decoration department and certainly won't need to spend any more money on buying new stuff.
In the end I found the required items in bedroom drawers, just in time for the very tired couple to arrive, have a cuppa, collapse on the sofa for a few minutes and then wend their weary way back hone to Gosforth.
All this was happening while England were losing to France, a match that certainly seemed to disappoint, although it sounds as if Andy Carroll had a reasonable debut.
I've got a relatively quiet day today - the lull before the storm in fact. I can't do any more buffet prep until tomorrow when all the fillings can be done. It's a question of getting the timing just right, to ensure that nothing goes soggy, but everything is ready in plenty of time to pack up. I quickly learned from the last occassion, that packing stuff takes a lot longer than one might imagine, so need to allow plenty of time for that tomorrow.
I'm really pleased with the cupcakes I've made. I've just done three flavours - Baileys, chocolate and raspberry, but they look pretty impressive, even if I say so myself. In fact, I left one lonely little Baileys cake out in the kitchen last night and when I went though this morning I was greeted with the fabulous aroma of coffee, whiskey and cream. Gorgeous!
Wednesday, 17 November 2010
ROSE IS GOING TO KNOW...
... exactly how to cook a seafood risotto, as she has been glued to the TV watching the Hairy Bikers for the last forty minutes!!
AM ALSO REALLY ANNOYED...
... with Charles, who asked me to make cupcakes for a new baby girl for one of his staff (which I did yesterday, along with all the other stuff I was preparing) and then proceeded to leave for work without them.
Not at all happy today.
Not at all happy today.
AM BEING THOROUGHLY...
... messed around this morning.
The buffet I've been asked to do on Friday has suddenly gone from 50 to 30, then became sweets only, then reverted to sweet and savoury.
One thing I have learned from this: If I am going to continue to provide a buffet service I will be asking for a sizeable deposit on booking in order to cover my costs should the event be cancelled or scaled down.
Am not impressed at all. In fact, I am having second thoughts about the second event I've been asked to do for the same people in December.
The buffet I've been asked to do on Friday has suddenly gone from 50 to 30, then became sweets only, then reverted to sweet and savoury.
One thing I have learned from this: If I am going to continue to provide a buffet service I will be asking for a sizeable deposit on booking in order to cover my costs should the event be cancelled or scaled down.
Am not impressed at all. In fact, I am having second thoughts about the second event I've been asked to do for the same people in December.
Tuesday, 16 November 2010
WILL NEED TO ...
... go to Morpeth later to stock up on stuff needed for Friday's knees up at Premier Kitchens in Morpeth.
Providing there are no more kitchen disasters, I should be on track with all the preparation, meaning that Thursday and Friday morning ought to be fairly manageable.
Providing there are no more kitchen disasters, I should be on track with all the preparation, meaning that Thursday and Friday morning ought to be fairly manageable.
NOT THE BEST...
... start to the day.
I've just opened one of the kitchen cupboards, releasing an impatient jar (full) of stem ginger in syrup, which hit the floor and smashed to smithereens, leaving tiny fragments of glass all over the place and sticky syrup seeping across the floor tiles and embedding itself into the grout.
Oh yuk!
I had no idea that there was so much syrup in a jar of ginger, nor did I fully appreciate it's stickiness. It's taken half an hour of mopping, wiping, hoovering and mopping again to finally get rid of it - and even now I keep going around with a brush and dustpan, just in case I've missed any glass that could find it's way into the girls' paws.
Not a good start at all.
I've just opened one of the kitchen cupboards, releasing an impatient jar (full) of stem ginger in syrup, which hit the floor and smashed to smithereens, leaving tiny fragments of glass all over the place and sticky syrup seeping across the floor tiles and embedding itself into the grout.
Oh yuk!
I had no idea that there was so much syrup in a jar of ginger, nor did I fully appreciate it's stickiness. It's taken half an hour of mopping, wiping, hoovering and mopping again to finally get rid of it - and even now I keep going around with a brush and dustpan, just in case I've missed any glass that could find it's way into the girls' paws.
Not a good start at all.
Monday, 15 November 2010
MERINGUES...
... are in the oven. They need a couple of hours to really dry out, so can't really do much until they're ready.
Have decided to take a risk and bake the cupcakes today, freeze them and then spend part of Thursday frosting and decorating them. It should be fine, as I've already experimented with freezing and there appears to be no difference once they're thawed, plus it'll help me to manage my time more effectively.
Lily and Rose are enjoying watching all the comings and goings in the kitchen - from a distance of course! They have really calmed down recently (apart from Rose's obsession with anything she takes exception to on the telly) and we've had a run of peaceful nights during the last week, so hopefully are back on track in that area.
I was just thinking - I know I've got a busy week, but so have James and Claire as this is the week they move into their new apartment. I'm really excited for them!
Have decided to take a risk and bake the cupcakes today, freeze them and then spend part of Thursday frosting and decorating them. It should be fine, as I've already experimented with freezing and there appears to be no difference once they're thawed, plus it'll help me to manage my time more effectively.
Lily and Rose are enjoying watching all the comings and goings in the kitchen - from a distance of course! They have really calmed down recently (apart from Rose's obsession with anything she takes exception to on the telly) and we've had a run of peaceful nights during the last week, so hopefully are back on track in that area.
I was just thinking - I know I've got a busy week, but so have James and Claire as this is the week they move into their new apartment. I'm really excited for them!
COLDEST MORNING SO FAR
Caught Charles unawares as he had to spend 15 minutes defrosting his windscreen. Hope everyone drives carefully this morning.
I'm glad to be staying in to be honest! Today I'm making meringues in readiness for Friday's buffet. Also probably making iced cutouts for the cupcakes as they'll need to dry out for a few days.
Other than that, today should be a quiet day.
I'm glad to be staying in to be honest! Today I'm making meringues in readiness for Friday's buffet. Also probably making iced cutouts for the cupcakes as they'll need to dry out for a few days.
Other than that, today should be a quiet day.
Sunday, 14 November 2010
COMPLETELY FORGOT...
... that Morpeth would be pretty much cordoned off for the Remembrance Day procession through the town this morning.
We discovered this too late and ended up giving up on our plan to go to the wholesaler, but being pleasntly surprised to discover that most of what was needed,could be obtained at Morrisons just as reasonably - in fact even more so in some cases. Charles made sure I went in equipped with the wholesale price list and we studiouly made our comparisons and ended up with everything we needed.
Following that we paid a quick visit to Central Bean where we learned that the mince pies had sold well yesterday, then returned home where I began to make the next batch!
We discovered this too late and ended up giving up on our plan to go to the wholesaler, but being pleasntly surprised to discover that most of what was needed,could be obtained at Morrisons just as reasonably - in fact even more so in some cases. Charles made sure I went in equipped with the wholesale price list and we studiouly made our comparisons and ended up with everything we needed.
Following that we paid a quick visit to Central Bean where we learned that the mince pies had sold well yesterday, then returned home where I began to make the next batch!
IT MAY BE SUNDAY, BUT...
... it doesn't seem to be much of a day of rest for us.
We need to pick up the containers from Central Bean, do some food shopping for us and some preliminary shopping for Friday's buffet. I want to make a start on the next batch of mince pies which are due for delivery on Tuesday. And we have a birthday party to go to as well.
Not enough hours in the day!
Charles is watching the highlights of the Newcastle match before taking the girls out for a walk. They won't have to wait much longer then! (Talking of the match, what on earth were the Fulham players wearing? I don't think I've ever seen a worse strip.)
We need to pick up the containers from Central Bean, do some food shopping for us and some preliminary shopping for Friday's buffet. I want to make a start on the next batch of mince pies which are due for delivery on Tuesday. And we have a birthday party to go to as well.
Not enough hours in the day!
Charles is watching the highlights of the Newcastle match before taking the girls out for a walk. They won't have to wait much longer then! (Talking of the match, what on earth were the Fulham players wearing? I don't think I've ever seen a worse strip.)
Saturday, 13 November 2010
JUST WANT TO SAY...
... that, apart from an exceedingly frustrating match this afternoon, the rest of the day has been brilliant.
James and I had a great time in town. He's such good company and has loads of patience when he has to wait for his mother to sort herself out.
We did of course eat far too much, which I am regretting now, but what the heck - it was just one day!
We came home, having picked Claire up after the match and settled down to an evening of Strictly, XFactor, Take That and the 5 minute boxing match - oh yes and dinner!
Thank you for a fab day James.
James and I had a great time in town. He's such good company and has loads of patience when he has to wait for his mother to sort herself out.
We did of course eat far too much, which I am regretting now, but what the heck - it was just one day!
We came home, having picked Claire up after the match and settled down to an evening of Strictly, XFactor, Take That and the 5 minute boxing match - oh yes and dinner!
Thank you for a fab day James.
HOPE IT WARMS UP A BIT...
... before the match today. Ther's only so many layers a girl can wear without looking like Michelin Man (or Woman).
I've got a lovely day ahead of me. Shopping, food and football. Brilliant.
Charles, on the other hand, isn't doing any of these things. I feel a bit guilty - but not that much!
I've got a lovely day ahead of me. Shopping, food and football. Brilliant.
Charles, on the other hand, isn't doing any of these things. I feel a bit guilty - but not that much!
Friday, 12 November 2010
GOT PAID TODAY!
First real money I've earned with Cakes A-Go-Go. Not that it amounted to that much - but hey, it's a start.
Now I'm wondering when Tardy Dave will let me know what the Tuesday order is. It's alright if it's the same as the one I've just done - but any more than that will obviously take more time to put together, so I hope he doesn't think he can just ring up on Monday and expect hundreds of mincepies to be ready the next day, cos that aint going to happen.
I've started the shopping list for next Friday's buffet. No sooner do I earn it, than it disappears again!
Charles is home early today, much to the delight of the girls, although before he arrived we were having a lovely girly time in the sunroom, the girls lounging on a pile of cushions as we looked through the Next catalogue together. Very pleasant.
Now I'm wondering when Tardy Dave will let me know what the Tuesday order is. It's alright if it's the same as the one I've just done - but any more than that will obviously take more time to put together, so I hope he doesn't think he can just ring up on Monday and expect hundreds of mincepies to be ready the next day, cos that aint going to happen.
I've started the shopping list for next Friday's buffet. No sooner do I earn it, than it disappears again!
Charles is home early today, much to the delight of the girls, although before he arrived we were having a lovely girly time in the sunroom, the girls lounging on a pile of cushions as we looked through the Next catalogue together. Very pleasant.
FRIDAY MORNING
And Charles, the delivery boy, has set off with the boxes of goodies for Central Bean.
Now I'm racked with doubt - Will anyone want to buy them? Will they like them? Will I really get another order?
I almost feel like getting into disuise and sitting in the coffee shop just to see what happens to my little creations.
I'm sure that if I do get a repeat order, I'll become more blase about everything, but right now I'm just worried!
Now I'm racked with doubt - Will anyone want to buy them? Will they like them? Will I really get another order?
I almost feel like getting into disuise and sitting in the coffee shop just to see what happens to my little creations.
I'm sure that if I do get a repeat order, I'll become more blase about everything, but right now I'm just worried!
THINK DANNYMATT...
... has seriously lost the plot!
I'm writing a Westie/Cake blog - and he's somewhere in the Wild West. Oh Lordy me!
I'm writing a Westie/Cake blog - and he's somewhere in the Wild West. Oh Lordy me!
Thursday, 11 November 2010
FIRST ORDER...
... baked,packaged and ready for delivery tomorrow morning!
Bring on the next one. I say.
(Shouldn't speak too soon, as next week I've got two orders for central bean AND a buffet for 50 at Premier Kitchens. Could well be tearing my hair out with those, especially as the buffet is the same day as one of the CB orders.)
Just been out for a bit of fresh air with the girls - very gusty and chilly, but we managed to dodge the showers.
Right - going to put my feet up for a few minutes.
Bring on the next one. I say.
(Shouldn't speak too soon, as next week I've got two orders for central bean AND a buffet for 50 at Premier Kitchens. Could well be tearing my hair out with those, especially as the buffet is the same day as one of the CB orders.)
Just been out for a bit of fresh air with the girls - very gusty and chilly, but we managed to dodge the showers.
Right - going to put my feet up for a few minutes.
Wednesday, 10 November 2010
BACK FROM THE ARENA.
Fabulous performance. We all thoroughly enjoyed it.
On balance, I think Charles was probably pretty glad NOT to be at SJP this evening!
The girls greeted us enthusiastically on our return and appeared to forgive us for leaving them all evening.
Okay - nearly midnight, so going to get some sleep before mammoth baking day tomorrow.
On balance, I think Charles was probably pretty glad NOT to be at SJP this evening!
The girls greeted us enthusiastically on our return and appeared to forgive us for leaving them all evening.
Okay - nearly midnight, so going to get some sleep before mammoth baking day tomorrow.
WE'RE OFF TO SEE...
...'Lord of the Dance' tonight - and I'm already having a little panic about leaving the girls for the evening. I will quite happily leave them during the day, but evenings are a bit different and the time that they are used to spending with us, so they may well be a bit disgruntled when we get back!
They were, of course, ecstatic when Charles returned last night. Lily's loyalties were immediately put into question as she leapt off my lap, where she had been happily snoozing and immediately took up position with her dad! Love you too, Lil!! (Rose on the other hand, remained totally loyal to her Mum!)
They were, of course, ecstatic when Charles returned last night. Lily's loyalties were immediately put into question as she leapt off my lap, where she had been happily snoozing and immediately took up position with her dad! Love you too, Lil!! (Rose on the other hand, remained totally loyal to her Mum!)
Tuesday, 9 November 2010
FINALLY...
... a mere two hours late, I get the call.
Was it worth waiting for?
Not really - a mere forty mince tarts and one tray of ginger shortbread for Friday. I can understand he wants to make sure the stuff will sell, and I suppose it gives me an easy order to get under my belt - but I really hope those numbers are going to increase pretty rapidly. In fact I suggest you go along to Central Bean on Saturday and eat the lot - then he'll have to order more!
Was it worth waiting for?
Not really - a mere forty mince tarts and one tray of ginger shortbread for Friday. I can understand he wants to make sure the stuff will sell, and I suppose it gives me an easy order to get under my belt - but I really hope those numbers are going to increase pretty rapidly. In fact I suggest you go along to Central Bean on Saturday and eat the lot - then he'll have to order more!
"CALL U AT 2 TOMORROW"...
... That was the message I got from Dave at Central Bean yesterday.
Well - it's nearly 3 o'clock and has he rung?
You got it!
Well - it's nearly 3 o'clock and has he rung?
You got it!
JAMES HAS A CUNNING PLAN!
He reckons that he and I could pretty much spend all day saturday in town, starting with breakfast, then Christmas shopping, followed by coffee, then more shopping, lunch at the Indian and then onto the match.
This sounds like a brilliant idea to me. I could probably do everything I need to do for Christmas in one session and would be able to tick that off the list.
It IS my turn to go to SJP and Charles would be able to go to the Chelsea match which is the next home game (I think) so he shouldn't object too much.
Good plan Jim!
This sounds like a brilliant idea to me. I could probably do everything I need to do for Christmas in one session and would be able to tick that off the list.
It IS my turn to go to SJP and Charles would be able to go to the Chelsea match which is the next home game (I think) so he shouldn't object too much.
Good plan Jim!
I'M SURE...
... I've just seen a few snowflakes blowing around this morning! Yet again, it's bitterley cold with a really strong wind. The girls are going to need their coats on when we go out later.
They were as good as gold last night, although pool little Lily really couldn't understand where Charles was. Every evening, they come and settle down with us for telly time (!) - Rose lies next to me, very close to the TV so that she can keep a close eye on it, and on the adverts inparticular. Even when she's apparently in a deep sleep, she knows instantly when a programme finishes and the ads begin and will stand on guard against meerkats, back horses and weird looking cartoon characters like those spooky things they've got in the Lloyds 'for the journey' ads. Lily meanwhile, snuggles up to her Dad, her hero, and never leaves his side all evening, remaining in a state of sublime reaxed ecstacy until we tell her it's bedtime, at which point she rolls onto her back for the pre-bedtime tummy tickle!
Of course, last night he wasn't there and Lily spent fruitless time searching for him, looking longingly at the settee where they usually sit together. She tried lying next to me (and on top of me) but I'm obviously not the right shape for her, because she gave up and took herself into the sunroom where she proceeded to make a nest out of four cushions into which she burrowed and slept a sad little sleep, no doubt feeling thoroughly dejected and lonely!
Never mind Lil - he'll be home this evening, so normality will once again be restored.
They were as good as gold last night, although pool little Lily really couldn't understand where Charles was. Every evening, they come and settle down with us for telly time (!) - Rose lies next to me, very close to the TV so that she can keep a close eye on it, and on the adverts inparticular. Even when she's apparently in a deep sleep, she knows instantly when a programme finishes and the ads begin and will stand on guard against meerkats, back horses and weird looking cartoon characters like those spooky things they've got in the Lloyds 'for the journey' ads. Lily meanwhile, snuggles up to her Dad, her hero, and never leaves his side all evening, remaining in a state of sublime reaxed ecstacy until we tell her it's bedtime, at which point she rolls onto her back for the pre-bedtime tummy tickle!
Of course, last night he wasn't there and Lily spent fruitless time searching for him, looking longingly at the settee where they usually sit together. She tried lying next to me (and on top of me) but I'm obviously not the right shape for her, because she gave up and took herself into the sunroom where she proceeded to make a nest out of four cushions into which she burrowed and slept a sad little sleep, no doubt feeling thoroughly dejected and lonely!
Never mind Lil - he'll be home this evening, so normality will once again be restored.
Monday, 8 November 2010
SO DAVE FROM CENTRAL BEAN...
... tells me on Friday that he'll let me know today (Monday) exactly what he wants this week.
Gets to 5pm and I send a text as haven't heard a peep from him,only to get one back saying he'll let me know at 2pm tomorrow.
Why say Monday if you don't mean it then Dave?
(And I bet any money you like that 2.00 tomorrow will come and go with no word!)
I honestly can't abide tardiness. He's been late for every meeting - by hours and now he's keeping me waiting another day. Perhaps he thinks the cake fairies come in the night and magically produce mince pies and traybakes. If he wants dozens of the wretched things, I need to know so I can plan my time accordingly.
Get a grip man.
Gets to 5pm and I send a text as haven't heard a peep from him,only to get one back saying he'll let me know at 2pm tomorrow.
Why say Monday if you don't mean it then Dave?
(And I bet any money you like that 2.00 tomorrow will come and go with no word!)
I honestly can't abide tardiness. He's been late for every meeting - by hours and now he's keeping me waiting another day. Perhaps he thinks the cake fairies come in the night and magically produce mince pies and traybakes. If he wants dozens of the wretched things, I need to know so I can plan my time accordingly.
Get a grip man.
WARNING!!
If the weather that we are experiencing just now is heading yur way...
... DO NOT VENTURE OUTSIDE.
We've just had the most vicious hailstorm with stones like little bullets. All I did was pop my head out of the door to collect the post and I felt as if I was under attack from thousands of stinging needles. Seriously - it hurt!!
... DO NOT VENTURE OUTSIDE.
We've just had the most vicious hailstorm with stones like little bullets. All I did was pop my head out of the door to collect the post and I felt as if I was under attack from thousands of stinging needles. Seriously - it hurt!!
SOD'S LAW STRIKES AGAIN!
First off - the delivery I was expecting today, must actually have arrived on Saturday as I've just fallen over a pile of packages in the shed which I wasn't expecting, nor was there any notification from the postman/deliveryman to let me know they were there.
Anyway, included in the pile was a small padded envelope containing the new milk frother. Great I could have had my fix two days ago! BUT - and this is where Sod's Law cuts in - when I came to try to remove the old damaged one I discovered that it won't budge and that the nail glue which I had dismissed as a silly idea, had in fact set like concrete, meaning that the original frother was actually functioning perfectly!! So, in fact, I could have had my fix FOUR days ago! Grrrrr...
Anyway, included in the pile was a small padded envelope containing the new milk frother. Great I could have had my fix two days ago! BUT - and this is where Sod's Law cuts in - when I came to try to remove the old damaged one I discovered that it won't budge and that the nail glue which I had dismissed as a silly idea, had in fact set like concrete, meaning that the original frother was actually functioning perfectly!! So, in fact, I could have had my fix FOUR days ago! Grrrrr...
COLD, COLD, COLD!
It really is bitterly cold this morning, but on the bright side, we had an uninterrupted night'ssleep last night, so woke as fresh as daisies! (Not really, just kidding.)
Charles has gone off to school but won't be home till late tomorrow evening as he has to do a little detour into London for a Safeguarding conference.
I don't think he's really thrilled to be going - and he only found out about it last week, so it was a bit last minute. Nor do I think he's particularly thrilled about going to 'Lord of the Dance' on Wednesday night, despite it being booked for months. This could well be due to the fact that he's now discovered that Newcastle have a home game that evening and clearly would rather be going to SJP! (I'm sure he'll love the show when he get's there!)
I've got another day of waiting for deliveries today, one of which I hope will be a new milk frother nozzle for my Baby Gaggia. I am missing my daily treat so much, ordinarly coffee just isn't the same. (Mind you, we were introduced to a fab caramel latte in Central Bean the other day, when we managed to track down the illusive Dave. Sounds awful I know, but is,in fact, absolutely delicious.)
I should be receiving my first order today. I already know I'm supplying two coffee shops (Morpeth and Jesmond) but don't know exact quantities yet. The outcome may necessitate the purchase of additional bread trays for transporting the goodies (more expense) but I'm not going to buy any until I've got a better idea of what is needed.
Right, it's time for the girls to have their breakfast, so I'll sign off for a while.
Charles has gone off to school but won't be home till late tomorrow evening as he has to do a little detour into London for a Safeguarding conference.
I don't think he's really thrilled to be going - and he only found out about it last week, so it was a bit last minute. Nor do I think he's particularly thrilled about going to 'Lord of the Dance' on Wednesday night, despite it being booked for months. This could well be due to the fact that he's now discovered that Newcastle have a home game that evening and clearly would rather be going to SJP! (I'm sure he'll love the show when he get's there!)
I've got another day of waiting for deliveries today, one of which I hope will be a new milk frother nozzle for my Baby Gaggia. I am missing my daily treat so much, ordinarly coffee just isn't the same. (Mind you, we were introduced to a fab caramel latte in Central Bean the other day, when we managed to track down the illusive Dave. Sounds awful I know, but is,in fact, absolutely delicious.)
I should be receiving my first order today. I already know I'm supplying two coffee shops (Morpeth and Jesmond) but don't know exact quantities yet. The outcome may necessitate the purchase of additional bread trays for transporting the goodies (more expense) but I'm not going to buy any until I've got a better idea of what is needed.
Right, it's time for the girls to have their breakfast, so I'll sign off for a while.
Sunday, 7 November 2010
THIS MAY NOT HAPPEN OFTEN...
... but doesn't it feel good to be a Toon supporter this week.
Let's enjoy it while it lasts!
Let's enjoy it while it lasts!
SPOKE TOO SOON...
... yesterday, when celebrating an undisturbed night.
The girls had me up at 4.00, then 6.00 this morning, then went back to sleep until 7.45. You'll notice I said 'ME' - and that's because I was the only one who responded as selective deafness had obviously set in with Charles, who has just emerged, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, after a nice long lie-in.
Well, lucky you Charles.
As for me, I look like I've got shopping bags under my eyes this morning, feel lousy because I'm trying to fend off a cold that appears to be winning the battle and all I really want to do is to crawl back into bed for a few hours of undisturbed kip.
The girls had me up at 4.00, then 6.00 this morning, then went back to sleep until 7.45. You'll notice I said 'ME' - and that's because I was the only one who responded as selective deafness had obviously set in with Charles, who has just emerged, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, after a nice long lie-in.
Well, lucky you Charles.
As for me, I look like I've got shopping bags under my eyes this morning, feel lousy because I'm trying to fend off a cold that appears to be winning the battle and all I really want to do is to crawl back into bed for a few hours of undisturbed kip.
Saturday, 6 November 2010
BACK FROM TOWN
And a bit disappointed with today's achievements to be honest.
Managed to get a few bits and pieces, but we weren't really there for long as Charles had to rush off to meet Christina this afternoon. Also,thanks to some serious disorganisation in John Lewis's cafe, which meant hanging around for nearly an hour before we were all fed and watered (or coffee-d) this cut valuable shopping time back considerably.
Anyway - I'm at home with the girls waiting for the Tesco delivery and Charles has flown out again. We've just had a lovely walk (the girls and I, not Charles) in the Autumn sunshine. It's a perfect day really.
Not sure what to do now. I'm not going to be baking until I get my first official order on Monday, but I could start researching containers for transportation. In fact, that's exactly what I'll do.
Managed to get a few bits and pieces, but we weren't really there for long as Charles had to rush off to meet Christina this afternoon. Also,thanks to some serious disorganisation in John Lewis's cafe, which meant hanging around for nearly an hour before we were all fed and watered (or coffee-d) this cut valuable shopping time back considerably.
Anyway - I'm at home with the girls waiting for the Tesco delivery and Charles has flown out again. We've just had a lovely walk (the girls and I, not Charles) in the Autumn sunshine. It's a perfect day really.
Not sure what to do now. I'm not going to be baking until I get my first official order on Monday, but I could start researching containers for transportation. In fact, that's exactly what I'll do.
WE HAD...
... a much better night ast night, with the girls sleeping through until 6am, when Charles put them out for a wee, after which they settled again until 7ish.
This is a great improvement on the last few nights and hopefully signals a return to their usual sleeping pattern.
We're getting ready to go into town this morning for our little jaunt with James and Claire. I'm quite looking forward to it actually.
It occurred to me last night that I may not have much time to myself if the business takes off, so have decided to get as much Christmas preparation done now as possible. I always put myself under terrific pressure at Christmas and want to try and ease the load a bit. So, Christmas shopping, here goes...
This is a great improvement on the last few nights and hopefully signals a return to their usual sleeping pattern.
We're getting ready to go into town this morning for our little jaunt with James and Claire. I'm quite looking forward to it actually.
It occurred to me last night that I may not have much time to myself if the business takes off, so have decided to get as much Christmas preparation done now as possible. I always put myself under terrific pressure at Christmas and want to try and ease the load a bit. So, Christmas shopping, here goes...
Friday, 5 November 2010
WELL DONE JAMES!
95% in his Hazardous Sea Freight exam this afternoon. Excellent result!
Poor James is still stuck in the airport in Aberdeen. He's been there for hours and all he wants to do is to get home and start the weekend.
We're meeting him and Claire in town in the morning for coffee and a chat - AND to do a little preliminary Christmas shopping (or browsing).
Other than that, there isn't much on the cards for our weekend. I want to do three things related to Cakes A-Go-Go: 1) Sort better crates for transporting goods, 2) Get posters and fliers printed off ready for distribution next week and 3) and you may consider this frivolous,but I think it's important, to find a company who will put the logo onto polo shirts so that I (we) look a little bit professional when seeing customers and delivering goodies. Oh, just thought of a fourth - I think it would be worth going to Bookers to check out ingredients and trays.
(I keep listening out for fireworks, but so far all is relatively quiet outside. I'm sure the girls will react badly if things do get noisy later though. In fact, I think they're still getting over their Halloween fright and that could possibly be the cause of the disturbed nights recently.)
Anyway - what's anyone else doing this weekend?
Poor James is still stuck in the airport in Aberdeen. He's been there for hours and all he wants to do is to get home and start the weekend.
We're meeting him and Claire in town in the morning for coffee and a chat - AND to do a little preliminary Christmas shopping (or browsing).
Other than that, there isn't much on the cards for our weekend. I want to do three things related to Cakes A-Go-Go: 1) Sort better crates for transporting goods, 2) Get posters and fliers printed off ready for distribution next week and 3) and you may consider this frivolous,but I think it's important, to find a company who will put the logo onto polo shirts so that I (we) look a little bit professional when seeing customers and delivering goodies. Oh, just thought of a fourth - I think it would be worth going to Bookers to check out ingredients and trays.
(I keep listening out for fireworks, but so far all is relatively quiet outside. I'm sure the girls will react badly if things do get noisy later though. In fact, I think they're still getting over their Halloween fright and that could possibly be the cause of the disturbed nights recently.)
Anyway - what's anyone else doing this weekend?
HOORAY!!
Central Bean will be stocking mince pies and ginger shortbread from ME!
Will get proper order on Monday - for TWO OUTLETS!!
Dave must have liked them!
Will get proper order on Monday - for TWO OUTLETS!!
Dave must have liked them!
WHY ON EARTH...
... have the girls suddenly started waking up two or three times during the night and barking madly?
This is a complete change to their usual behaviour, and is becoming a little tiring now.
Last night they were awake at 2.00, went out for a wee, then settled until 3.00 when they were barking again. At that point I went through and just told them to settle, which they did, until 6.00 when they (and consequently WE) were up for the day.
I don't understand what is causing this.
This is a complete change to their usual behaviour, and is becoming a little tiring now.
Last night they were awake at 2.00, went out for a wee, then settled until 3.00 when they were barking again. At that point I went through and just told them to settle, which they did, until 6.00 when they (and consequently WE) were up for the day.
I don't understand what is causing this.
Thursday, 4 November 2010
GETTING A BIT CONFUSED!
If I'm not really careful I end up posting on the Cakes A-Go-Go blog by mistake.
I managed to do so yesterday, writing a silly little post about nail glue not working, thought I was posting on this site, but ended up on the other blog - so it won't make any sense to anybody at all!
I think it's because of the way Charles has set it up. he obviously thought it would be easy for me to find my way from one to the other, but forget that I probably wouldn't bother checking where I am before I press 'publish'!
I managed to do so yesterday, writing a silly little post about nail glue not working, thought I was posting on this site, but ended up on the other blog - so it won't make any sense to anybody at all!
I think it's because of the way Charles has set it up. he obviously thought it would be easy for me to find my way from one to the other, but forget that I probably wouldn't bother checking where I am before I press 'publish'!
AT LAST...
... have made the ultimate mince pies!
These beauties have a crisp, yet melt in the mouth shortbread case, loads of filling and a crumble topping, finished with a liberal dusting of icing sugar. I thought about the recipe late last night - and really wanted to get on with them there and then, but as it was approaching midnight, had to wait till this morning!
They are fab, as I know because I've already demolished one with my morning cuppa. The only downside (not to the mince pies) is that I am unable to have my usual capuccino as the nail glue on the milk frother did not work.
Also, now have a meeting with Dave from Central Bean tomorrow at noon!
These beauties have a crisp, yet melt in the mouth shortbread case, loads of filling and a crumble topping, finished with a liberal dusting of icing sugar. I thought about the recipe late last night - and really wanted to get on with them there and then, but as it was approaching midnight, had to wait till this morning!
They are fab, as I know because I've already demolished one with my morning cuppa. The only downside (not to the mince pies) is that I am unable to have my usual capuccino as the nail glue on the milk frother did not work.
Also, now have a meeting with Dave from Central Bean tomorrow at noon!
Wednesday, 3 November 2010
BIT OF A NON-DAY REALLY.
Haven't done anything of any significance, apart from make some fab pear and dark chocolate cupcakes. Sounds weird I know but the combination works brilliantly.
Spent most of my time with the dogs, trying to give thir coats a good combing. Lily's not too bad, but, as usual, Rose is beginning to get a little tangled and I want to catch them before they get too bad.
Did a bit of shopping for Christmas on-line this afternoon, so that was good, but then the internet went down again and didn't reconnect for about three hours. Very frustrating.
James has just rung to say he passed his exam this afternoon. Another one on Friday and then he's done. (Bet it's chilly in Aberdeen!)
Spent most of my time with the dogs, trying to give thir coats a good combing. Lily's not too bad, but, as usual, Rose is beginning to get a little tangled and I want to catch them before they get too bad.
Did a bit of shopping for Christmas on-line this afternoon, so that was good, but then the internet went down again and didn't reconnect for about three hours. Very frustrating.
James has just rung to say he passed his exam this afternoon. Another one on Friday and then he's done. (Bet it's chilly in Aberdeen!)
NOT A GOOD START...
... to the day.
Not only because the girls have had us up no less than FOUR times during the night, but also because (and this is a MAJOR disaster) the milk frothing bit on my beloved coffee machine has SHEARED OFF leaving me unable to make my capuccinos any more.
I'm going to try to tape it together but don't hold out much hope.
This is truly devastating and the coffee machine is absolutely NOT something I was anticipating having to replace at this stage.
Also, I've heard NOTHING at all from Dave at Central Bean - not even a thank you for the samples.
Finally, the guy who is working on my logo and business cards, promised they would arrive two days ago (which the haven't) and now says they'll be here by next Monday, but has sent the logo electronically, except when I came to open it THERE ARE NO CAKES ON IT ANY MORE.
What is going on?
I feel as if I'm in a bit of a slump and hate having to wait around for other people to get their acts together.
Dave - If you don't want the stuff, JUST TELL ME and then I can move on. I've put so many hours into trying to get things just right for you AND I COULD HAVE PUT MY ENERGY INTO SOMETHING ELSE.
Perhaps you can detect that I'm not at all happy this morning.
Not only because the girls have had us up no less than FOUR times during the night, but also because (and this is a MAJOR disaster) the milk frothing bit on my beloved coffee machine has SHEARED OFF leaving me unable to make my capuccinos any more.
I'm going to try to tape it together but don't hold out much hope.
This is truly devastating and the coffee machine is absolutely NOT something I was anticipating having to replace at this stage.
Also, I've heard NOTHING at all from Dave at Central Bean - not even a thank you for the samples.
Finally, the guy who is working on my logo and business cards, promised they would arrive two days ago (which the haven't) and now says they'll be here by next Monday, but has sent the logo electronically, except when I came to open it THERE ARE NO CAKES ON IT ANY MORE.
What is going on?
I feel as if I'm in a bit of a slump and hate having to wait around for other people to get their acts together.
Dave - If you don't want the stuff, JUST TELL ME and then I can move on. I've put so many hours into trying to get things just right for you AND I COULD HAVE PUT MY ENERGY INTO SOMETHING ELSE.
Perhaps you can detect that I'm not at all happy this morning.
Tuesday, 2 November 2010
HMMM...
... methinks I may be being led up the garden path...
... by Dave at Central Bean.
I've spent three days perfecting (nearly) the stuff he asked for, and suddenly he's strangely unavailable.
However, I've delivered a box of samples to the coffee shop in the hope that he gets to try them later today, so we'll see. If he isn't interested, I just rather he comes out and says so and then I can be moving onto other things.
... by Dave at Central Bean.
I've spent three days perfecting (nearly) the stuff he asked for, and suddenly he's strangely unavailable.
However, I've delivered a box of samples to the coffee shop in the hope that he gets to try them later today, so we'll see. If he isn't interested, I just rather he comes out and says so and then I can be moving onto other things.
HANGING ABOUT THIS MORNING!
Just waiting for a text from the manager at Central Bean to let me know what time I've to take the samples for him. This time it's mince pies and gingerbread! (Maybe he doesn't want to buy anything, but just enjoys sampling!)
Made a batch of Pudsey cupcakes with a mix of little Pudsey faces and spotty tops. Also had a go at shortbread Pudseys. They look pretty good and should be topical for a couple of weeks.
Made a batch of Pudsey cupcakes with a mix of little Pudsey faces and spotty tops. Also had a go at shortbread Pudseys. They look pretty good and should be topical for a couple of weeks.
Monday, 1 November 2010
IT'S HERE...
... AT LAST!
One very smart, bad boy fridge freezer delivered safely, up and running...
... and surprisingly FULL!
One very smart, bad boy fridge freezer delivered safely, up and running...
... and surprisingly FULL!
TOTALLY SPOOKED
That was the girls last night.
We hardly ever get bothered by Trick or Treaters, but last night we were - and the dogs were beside themselves with frantic anxiety.
Lily especially was inconsolable (that looks really weird - maybe I've spelled it wrong) and it took hours to get her to stop pacing and whining. In fact they woke every few hours during the night and had clearly been traumatised by the masks and costumes.
Fortunately, today is a new day and all seems to have been forgotten!
We hardly ever get bothered by Trick or Treaters, but last night we were - and the dogs were beside themselves with frantic anxiety.
Lily especially was inconsolable (that looks really weird - maybe I've spelled it wrong) and it took hours to get her to stop pacing and whining. In fact they woke every few hours during the night and had clearly been traumatised by the masks and costumes.
Fortunately, today is a new day and all seems to have been forgotten!
Sunday, 31 October 2010
JUST FINISHED WATCHING...
... the match from this afternoon!
I couldn't bear to watch live, so waited until I knew the result and then settled down to enjoy a sress-free evening!
Haven't had the best of days in the kitchen. Maybe I've been trying too hard, but nothing really seems to have worked out particularly well. So, I'll start again tomorrow.
Which reminds me, we've got one fridge-freezer going and another arriving, so before Charles goes to work he'll need to give me a hand to empty the one thats going back to John Lewis.
Also, with luck,all my Cakes A-Go-Go stationery should arrive. I'm looking forward to that.
Just had a quick chat with Jim who's back in Aberdeen for the week. I'm guessing it's the last place he want to be!
I couldn't bear to watch live, so waited until I knew the result and then settled down to enjoy a sress-free evening!
Haven't had the best of days in the kitchen. Maybe I've been trying too hard, but nothing really seems to have worked out particularly well. So, I'll start again tomorrow.
Which reminds me, we've got one fridge-freezer going and another arriving, so before Charles goes to work he'll need to give me a hand to empty the one thats going back to John Lewis.
Also, with luck,all my Cakes A-Go-Go stationery should arrive. I'm looking forward to that.
Just had a quick chat with Jim who's back in Aberdeen for the week. I'm guessing it's the last place he want to be!
I'VE DECIDED...
... to stop beating myself up if I don't post as regularly as I used to on this blog.
That's not to say I'm gicing itup, but there are many occasions,like today for example, when there is just so much going on in the kitchen that I really don't have the time.
So I will post as and when I can - and I won't get uptight about it!!
That's not to say I'm gicing itup, but there are many occasions,like today for example, when there is just so much going on in the kitchen that I really don't have the time.
So I will post as and when I can - and I won't get uptight about it!!
Saturday, 30 October 2010
DANNYMATT!
It was great to see you and Andy yesterday. What a brilliant kid he is - we love him to bits!
Sorry I didn't see you leave, but will hopefully catch up again when things are a bit calmer!
Sorry I didn't see you leave, but will hopefully catch up again when things are a bit calmer!
JUST BACK FROM...
... the coffee shop in Morpeth, where our cakes had got a fabulous response and a lot of interest from the manager.
Am seeing him again on Tuesday!
Am seeing him again on Tuesday!
AND AFTER NINE HOURS OF. TRYING.....
.... we finally managed to get our Take That tickets at 6pm yesterday.
And then immediately afterwards the internet went down, so I couldnt come on here being all jubilant and ecstatic.
And then immediately afterwards the internet went down, so I couldnt come on here being all jubilant and ecstatic.
Friday, 29 October 2010
SO HOW EXACTLY...
... DOES ANYONE MANAGE TO BUY TICKETS FOR TAKE THAT?
Three of us have been glued to our phones and PCs for three quarters of an hour - and we haven't got anywhere yet.
All phone lines are busy and we keep getting knocked off Ticketmaster.
But will keep trying!
Three of us have been glued to our phones and PCs for three quarters of an hour - and we haven't got anywhere yet.
All phone lines are busy and we keep getting knocked off Ticketmaster.
But will keep trying!
Thursday, 28 October 2010
RETAIL THERAPY...
... is incredibly good for you!
After dropping off our cakes at 8.30 on the dot, Helen and I went into town and spent a very pleasant few hours buying Christmas stuff (and a pair of skinny combats and workers boots for ME!)
We had coffee (twice) and Danish and had a really good mooch around. Ended up with aching arms and very sore feet!
Got home mid-afternoon and began to search for luxury packaging for our cakes. After much frustration, we did eventually find a company that supplies exactly what we need to make the cakes extra, extra special.
We're all on stand-by for tomorrow morning, when not only do we need to make another batch of cakes ready for our pitch on Saturday, but even ore importantly all three of us need to simultaneously ring up for Take That tickets at 9am.Wish us luck!
Forgot to mention the other day that the saga of the American fridge-freezer may eventually come to an end on Monday. Not as you might expect, however, seeing as we have given up on John Lewis and have cancelled the order and have resorted to another company who had stock in and who were able to guarantee uick delivery. We now have to get rid of the loan equipment (John Lewis are doing this on Monday morning) ready for the arrival of The Beast during the afternoon.
I bet those nice people at John Lewis wish they had never set eyes on us!
After dropping off our cakes at 8.30 on the dot, Helen and I went into town and spent a very pleasant few hours buying Christmas stuff (and a pair of skinny combats and workers boots for ME!)
We had coffee (twice) and Danish and had a really good mooch around. Ended up with aching arms and very sore feet!
Got home mid-afternoon and began to search for luxury packaging for our cakes. After much frustration, we did eventually find a company that supplies exactly what we need to make the cakes extra, extra special.
We're all on stand-by for tomorrow morning, when not only do we need to make another batch of cakes ready for our pitch on Saturday, but even ore importantly all three of us need to simultaneously ring up for Take That tickets at 9am.Wish us luck!
Forgot to mention the other day that the saga of the American fridge-freezer may eventually come to an end on Monday. Not as you might expect, however, seeing as we have given up on John Lewis and have cancelled the order and have resorted to another company who had stock in and who were able to guarantee uick delivery. We now have to get rid of the loan equipment (John Lewis are doing this on Monday morning) ready for the arrival of The Beast during the afternoon.
I bet those nice people at John Lewis wish they had never set eyes on us!
Wednesday, 27 October 2010
BEAUTIFUL DAY!
Quite mild and very sunny. A bit blustery - but still very pleasant.
Been busy making chocolate and vanilla cupcakes ready for a variety of different flavoured frostings, before packing them up for taster boxes.
Going to sit round the table with Helen and Charles to determine costs, prices, delivery and labelling details in a few minutes. Tedious I suppose - but got to be done.
Been busy making chocolate and vanilla cupcakes ready for a variety of different flavoured frostings, before packing them up for taster boxes.
Going to sit round the table with Helen and Charles to determine costs, prices, delivery and labelling details in a few minutes. Tedious I suppose - but got to be done.
Tuesday, 26 October 2010
AND WE ENDED UP...
... at the Anglers!
Very nice meal, good company, a bit of time to relax and have a laugh before we start on the chocolate and fruit collections tomorrow.
Very nice meal, good company, a bit of time to relax and have a laugh before we start on the chocolate and fruit collections tomorrow.
WE'RE GOING OUT FOR DINNER...
... with helen, hannah, Jake, James and Claire.
Charles wants to go to the Granby, James wants to go to the Anglers - the rest of us don't care!
Can see a bit of a battle coming up here!
Charles wants to go to the Granby, James wants to go to the Anglers - the rest of us don't care!
Can see a bit of a battle coming up here!
WEDDING CAKES!!
We've done two wedding cake collections today! One is really striking, in white, black and red with silver accents. The other is very pretty in gold, silver and white.
Considering it's a first attempt, I think they've turned out really well.
Check out the Cakes A-Go-Go website later on for new photos.
Considering it's a first attempt, I think they've turned out really well.
Check out the Cakes A-Go-Go website later on for new photos.
Monday, 25 October 2010
LILY AND ROSE...
... have had another really good day today, apart from waking early becuase one of them had been sick in bed!
I was worried for a while - but as soon as I watched them both attack their breakfast with gusto, I realised that whatever had caused it, there was no longer any cause for concern.
And they've both hared around as usual with no ill effects.
I was worried for a while - but as soon as I watched them both attack their breakfast with gusto, I realised that whatever had caused it, there was no longer any cause for concern.
And they've both hared around as usual with no ill effects.
THIS IS GETTING TO BE A HABIT
Not getting to the blog until the evening, that is.
I'm absolutely not grumbling, but this is quite literally the first time Ive sat down today. My feet are killing me - but I have a real sense of acheivement, having worked out the text for the rest of the cakes website and made the whole of the children's range this afternoon.
Tomorrow, it's wedding cupcakes and working out costings, and therefore prices, for all the newly added items in the range. I'm s glad helen is here to help out.
Bet we sleep well tonight!
I'm absolutely not grumbling, but this is quite literally the first time Ive sat down today. My feet are killing me - but I have a real sense of acheivement, having worked out the text for the rest of the cakes website and made the whole of the children's range this afternoon.
Tomorrow, it's wedding cupcakes and working out costings, and therefore prices, for all the newly added items in the range. I'm s glad helen is here to help out.
Bet we sleep well tonight!
Sunday, 24 October 2010
FEEL AS IF...
... I've let the blog down a bit today.
I hate it when I haven't sat down for a good natter - but there hasn't been a lot of time for that today.
Charles and Helen are both feeling pretty relaxed this evening, with the thought of no school for a week and we're making tentative plans for a baking session tomorrow (and probably for the next few days as well).
With luck all the stationery for the business should arrive this week - and then will come the hard work of trying to persuade people that they might actually want to BUY some cakes. This is the bit I will find the hardest as I am not really a business woman (yet) and will need to toughen up a bit if I'm going to make a real go of it.
It's great to know that everything is coming together now though, especially now that we've completed the training module, as this was hanging over us a bit.
Anyway - there should be a couple of creative days, followed by some hard selling - and some time to catch up with friends during the second half of the week.
I hate it when I haven't sat down for a good natter - but there hasn't been a lot of time for that today.
Charles and Helen are both feeling pretty relaxed this evening, with the thought of no school for a week and we're making tentative plans for a baking session tomorrow (and probably for the next few days as well).
With luck all the stationery for the business should arrive this week - and then will come the hard work of trying to persuade people that they might actually want to BUY some cakes. This is the bit I will find the hardest as I am not really a business woman (yet) and will need to toughen up a bit if I'm going to make a real go of it.
It's great to know that everything is coming together now though, especially now that we've completed the training module, as this was hanging over us a bit.
Anyway - there should be a couple of creative days, followed by some hard selling - and some time to catch up with friends during the second half of the week.
AM CONFUSED NOW!
I've just written two posts and they've gone straight onto the Cakes A-Go-Go blog. How have I done that?
AND IF YOUR WONDERING...
... where I've been all day,
I have been doing my Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification with Helen - and we both passsed with 100%!!
Tick that one off the list!
I have been doing my Food Hygiene Level 2 qualification with Helen - and we both passsed with 100%!!
Tick that one off the list!
Saturday, 23 October 2010
WASN'T HOLBY ANYWAY!
Must be losing the plot!
Just want to mention that James came round for a while today. It was lovely to see him, it always is, but my main observation today was that I honestly cannot remember seeing him so happy - and I suspect that may be something to do with Claire!! Aaaaah.
Right - I've spent a couple of hours ths evening sorting out all my cake decorting equipment into some sort of logical order as opposed to the chaotic arrangement I had before. I seemed to spend ages trying to locate stuff, which wasn't very efficient, but now I should be able to find everything quickly and easily, thus maximising my time. I do like to be organised!
elen rang this evening. She should arrive sometime during the morning and we're going to spend a few days getting our food hygiene certificate sorted out AND making everything in the Cakes A-Go-Go range. We'll be up to our eyes in icing sugar!
Just want to mention that James came round for a while today. It was lovely to see him, it always is, but my main observation today was that I honestly cannot remember seeing him so happy - and I suspect that may be something to do with Claire!! Aaaaah.
Right - I've spent a couple of hours ths evening sorting out all my cake decorting equipment into some sort of logical order as opposed to the chaotic arrangement I had before. I seemed to spend ages trying to locate stuff, which wasn't very efficient, but now I should be able to find everything quickly and easily, thus maximising my time. I do like to be organised!
elen rang this evening. She should arrive sometime during the morning and we're going to spend a few days getting our food hygiene certificate sorted out AND making everything in the Cakes A-Go-Go range. We'll be up to our eyes in icing sugar!
SATURDAY EVENING
And what a quandry we are in!
Do we watch the match - obviously!
Do we record 'Strictly' or 'X Factor' and which do we watch first?
Sadly, I'm also addicted to Holby (I know, I know) so when do I watch that?
What to do, eh?
Do we watch the match - obviously!
Do we record 'Strictly' or 'X Factor' and which do we watch first?
Sadly, I'm also addicted to Holby (I know, I know) so when do I watch that?
What to do, eh?
LITTLE TREAT TODAY
Going to the hairdressers!
I haven't been for weeks and seem to have my baker boy cap permanently attached to my head in an attempt to hide the ever increasing roots.
Of course, it's pouring with rain and there's a howling gale - but hey,who cares, it's got to look better than it does at the moment.
We had a bit of a lie-in this morning and I ended up waking the girls, who went through a whole rigmarole of yawning and stretching just to let me know that they weren't really ready to be up!
I cannot begin to describe how settled they are these days. They really seem to understand their routine - and yet they can also cope better with the unexpected as well. I'm thrilled with the way they're turning out.
And they will also be thrilled tomorrow, when their Auntie Helen comes to stay - how spoiled will they be!
I haven't been for weeks and seem to have my baker boy cap permanently attached to my head in an attempt to hide the ever increasing roots.
Of course, it's pouring with rain and there's a howling gale - but hey,who cares, it's got to look better than it does at the moment.
We had a bit of a lie-in this morning and I ended up waking the girls, who went through a whole rigmarole of yawning and stretching just to let me know that they weren't really ready to be up!
I cannot begin to describe how settled they are these days. They really seem to understand their routine - and yet they can also cope better with the unexpected as well. I'm thrilled with the way they're turning out.
And they will also be thrilled tomorrow, when their Auntie Helen comes to stay - how spoiled will they be!
Friday, 22 October 2010
I'M HAVING A PLAY DAY TODAY!!
made a couple of batches of plain cupcakes last night for the sole purpose of experimenting with frostings and Christmas ideas.
Having great fun! Think I've created the Jewelled and the Traditional ranges, now I'm going to have a go at Winter Wonderland!
Having great fun! Think I've created the Jewelled and the Traditional ranges, now I'm going to have a go at Winter Wonderland!
AFTER WAYNE ROONEY'S...
... petulant outburst this week, does anyone else think Man Utd should have told him to grow up, sling his hook and then torn his contract up in front of him?
I'M STILL CHUCKLING...
... at the thought of dannymatt's covert incursions into buffet territory yesterday!! (See his brilliant comment on 'Only One More Day.')
My regret is that we don't have access to video evidence. Oh the fun we could have had with a soundtrack!
My regret is that we don't have access to video evidence. Oh the fun we could have had with a soundtrack!
Thursday, 21 October 2010
OR MAYBE NOT!!
Don't think there's much chance of getting any new photos on the blog tonight...
...Charles has already hit the sack and is snoring like a good un!!
...Charles has already hit the sack and is snoring like a good un!!
ONLY ONE MORE DAY...
... and Charles is on holiday again!!
In my opinion, this half term has flown past - but Charles may beg to differ. No major plans for the week, although Helen is coming for a few days so that we can really get to grips with all the cake stuff. I think we're planning to get the website completed, so will need to make a lot of cakes for photographic purposes! (Will be sending out invites to help with eating them!)
Hopefully Charles is going to post some photos of the cupcakes from earlier today. He's working on them now, so he may get them on here later this evening.
In my opinion, this half term has flown past - but Charles may beg to differ. No major plans for the week, although Helen is coming for a few days so that we can really get to grips with all the cake stuff. I think we're planning to get the website completed, so will need to make a lot of cakes for photographic purposes! (Will be sending out invites to help with eating them!)
Hopefully Charles is going to post some photos of the cupcakes from earlier today. He's working on them now, so he may get them on here later this evening.
DONE IT!
Actually managed to get all the buffet food and the cakes away on time today. If I ever do another buffet (oh wait, I AM doing another two) I will make sure I allow plenty of time for assembling everything and boxing it all up. I coped okay, but it was pretty frenetic this morning.
Hope everything goes well at the buffet and that Bill enjoys his send off.
Now I'm enjoying a bit of relaxing time - I've been for a very blustery walk with the girls, done a Tesco order cos I'm feeling lazy and am about to check out cake craft suppliers for Christmas goodies so that I can begin to think about the range of seasonal cupcakes.
Hope everything goes well at the buffet and that Bill enjoys his send off.
Now I'm enjoying a bit of relaxing time - I've been for a very blustery walk with the girls, done a Tesco order cos I'm feeling lazy and am about to check out cake craft suppliers for Christmas goodies so that I can begin to think about the range of seasonal cupcakes.
Wednesday, 20 October 2010
THE LAST FEW DAYS...
... have really got me buzzing again!
It has been great to get up each morning with a target to achieve!! Seriously, I don't think I felt in any way unfulfilled during the last year, but now that I've got something to really focus on, I am enjoying the challenge.
Just a few last minute bits to do tomorrow and everything will be finished. Charles is taking all the cakes to school whan he leaves in the morning, then coming back at lunchtime to collect the rest. I think he was suitably impressed with the cupcake tower - just hope everything survives the journey to Blyth intact!
It has been great to get up each morning with a target to achieve!! Seriously, I don't think I felt in any way unfulfilled during the last year, but now that I've got something to really focus on, I am enjoying the challenge.
Just a few last minute bits to do tomorrow and everything will be finished. Charles is taking all the cakes to school whan he leaves in the morning, then coming back at lunchtime to collect the rest. I think he was suitably impressed with the cupcake tower - just hope everything survives the journey to Blyth intact!
WOW! NEARLY 6PM ALREADY!
Have spent the entire day making cupcakes, frosting them and decorating the tiniest top cake you've ever seen!
Had a bit of a disaster though - the top layer of my cupcake stand is 6 inches, so I ordered a six inch tin and round cake stands. Unfortunately, I forgot that once there is a layer of marzipan and then one (or in this case TWO layers of sugarpaste, the cake ends up a lot bigger than 6 inches! Drat and darn it!
So, have had to have a bit of a re-think and have ended up with rather a Heath Robinson-esque result, which at this late stage will just have to do!
And the girls are fine by the way. Incredibly patient and watching (from afar in case you're wondering about food hygiene) the day's proceedings with huge interest!
Had a bit of a disaster though - the top layer of my cupcake stand is 6 inches, so I ordered a six inch tin and round cake stands. Unfortunately, I forgot that once there is a layer of marzipan and then one (or in this case TWO layers of sugarpaste, the cake ends up a lot bigger than 6 inches! Drat and darn it!
So, have had to have a bit of a re-think and have ended up with rather a Heath Robinson-esque result, which at this late stage will just have to do!
And the girls are fine by the way. Incredibly patient and watching (from afar in case you're wondering about food hygiene) the day's proceedings with huge interest!
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