... 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!
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!
Sunday, 31 October 2010
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!
Tuesday, 19 October 2010
IT'S BEEN A LONG DAY!!
But extremely productive. Lots of cooking/baking ans some decisions made about logos etc.
Apart from a couple of hours when James and Claire came round, I haven't stopped all day. It was so nice to see them, even in the midst of the chaos. We had a good natter and, just as importantly, I got to sit down for a while!!
There'll be more of the same tomorrow. I tried to get all the pastries out of the way today so that I just need to concentrate on cakes now. The 6 inch cake tin I ordered last week still hasn't arrived, so James picked one up for me from Smails in Morpeth. (Claire hates that shop as much as I do! I can't stand the smell or the apparent disorganisation in there. In fact when we sniffed the label from the tin it even smelt like Smail's shop! After the flood two years ago, everyone thought it would be transformed when it reopened, but no, it was exactly the same as before. Those of us with long memories should have realised that this would indeed be the case, because when fire broke out in the store years ago everyone then said they hoped it would have a facelift and a good sort out, but...you've guessed it, no change whatsoever!)
The girls are being little cherubs these days. They sit and watch me when I'm in the kitchen and are overjoyed when I'm able to give them some time. They're extremely forgiving!
Apart from a couple of hours when James and Claire came round, I haven't stopped all day. It was so nice to see them, even in the midst of the chaos. We had a good natter and, just as importantly, I got to sit down for a while!!
There'll be more of the same tomorrow. I tried to get all the pastries out of the way today so that I just need to concentrate on cakes now. The 6 inch cake tin I ordered last week still hasn't arrived, so James picked one up for me from Smails in Morpeth. (Claire hates that shop as much as I do! I can't stand the smell or the apparent disorganisation in there. In fact when we sniffed the label from the tin it even smelt like Smail's shop! After the flood two years ago, everyone thought it would be transformed when it reopened, but no, it was exactly the same as before. Those of us with long memories should have realised that this would indeed be the case, because when fire broke out in the store years ago everyone then said they hoped it would have a facelift and a good sort out, but...you've guessed it, no change whatsoever!)
The girls are being little cherubs these days. They sit and watch me when I'm in the kitchen and are overjoyed when I'm able to give them some time. They're extremely forgiving!
JUST WAITING FOR CHARLES ...
... to get home.
It's been a bit of a manic day here today - but much has been achieved.
Oh, here he is now.
Back later>
It's been a bit of a manic day here today - but much has been achieved.
Oh, here he is now.
Back later>
POOP, DEAD LEAVES...
... DEAD LEAVES, POOP...
... CAN YOU TELL THE DIFFERENCE?
CHARLES CAN'T!
But, his shoes are drying outside now.
... CAN YOU TELL THE DIFFERENCE?
CHARLES CAN'T!
But, his shoes are drying outside now.
Monday, 18 October 2010
AND YET AGAIN...
... Newcastle United are in the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
Well done Andy Carroll.
Well done Andy Carroll.
SOD'S LAW SAYS...
... that when I place orders for baking stuff they will arrive the next day, EXCEPT, for when I really do need them the next day ie when I need stuff for the wretched cake I'm supposed to be making for Thursday.
Okay...
... that's all the decorations for the fishing cake painted and brushed with lustre.
Now I need to decide what I'm going to do for the cupcakes. I think it would look best if I just use one or two shades of pale blue and green for them, to tie in with the main cake. I'll probably do a mixture of sugarpaste and frosting and will probably keep them fairly simple so the tower doesn't end up looking too fussy. For the sugar paste ones, I'll use the swirly embossing mat which should give a sort of ripply effect to match the pnd on the top cake.
(I'm really just thinking it through at the moment, but instead of talking to myself I'm typing it up!)
Now I need to decide what I'm going to do for the cupcakes. I think it would look best if I just use one or two shades of pale blue and green for them, to tie in with the main cake. I'll probably do a mixture of sugarpaste and frosting and will probably keep them fairly simple so the tower doesn't end up looking too fussy. For the sugar paste ones, I'll use the swirly embossing mat which should give a sort of ripply effect to match the pnd on the top cake.
(I'm really just thinking it through at the moment, but instead of talking to myself I'm typing it up!)
WE'VE COME TO THE CONCLUSION...
... that Rose is actually a hyper-intelligent little dog.
She is able to work out solutions to all sorts of problems (of the canine type you understand, not in matters of World Peace or anything) and remembers everything she is taught.
We think this may also account for the degree of neuroticism she also presents. She gets so anxious about potential dangers and threats,a trait I used to see in very intelligent young children. These kids could analyse a situation and be afraid of the possible repercutions, whereas their peers sailed blithly onwards oblivious of any potential problem. I've come across many very bright children who tie themselves in knots with 'What ifs' and consequently never let themselves relax and just enjoy being kids.
There's something about Rose that brings this to mind. She is NEVER able to fully relax and appears to feel that she needs to be permanently on guard, from the dangers outside and, of course, those that we inflict on her through the television. We were watching her last night and ended up feeling really sorry for her, because we reckon it must be exhausting to be Rose.
Lily couldn't care less!
She is able to work out solutions to all sorts of problems (of the canine type you understand, not in matters of World Peace or anything) and remembers everything she is taught.
We think this may also account for the degree of neuroticism she also presents. She gets so anxious about potential dangers and threats,a trait I used to see in very intelligent young children. These kids could analyse a situation and be afraid of the possible repercutions, whereas their peers sailed blithly onwards oblivious of any potential problem. I've come across many very bright children who tie themselves in knots with 'What ifs' and consequently never let themselves relax and just enjoy being kids.
There's something about Rose that brings this to mind. She is NEVER able to fully relax and appears to feel that she needs to be permanently on guard, from the dangers outside and, of course, those that we inflict on her through the television. We were watching her last night and ended up feeling really sorry for her, because we reckon it must be exhausting to be Rose.
Lily couldn't care less!
GETTING UP IN THE DARK...
... is no fun at all.
I can never quite believe that it's actually time for the day to begin when it's still pitch black outside. But, hey ho, here we go...
... The girls have been out for their early walk. Charles does this one, especially now that it's dark, because I wouldn't be able to see a thing and would end up tripping over them. Perhaps reflective coats would be a good idea.
Plans for today include painting cake decorations and making a batch of tiny meringues. I must also make sure I allow time to cook a proper meal. Yesterday, Sunday, we ended up with one thrown together feast of leftover Indian for Charles and a cheese sandwich for me! Not good.
I can never quite believe that it's actually time for the day to begin when it's still pitch black outside. But, hey ho, here we go...
... The girls have been out for their early walk. Charles does this one, especially now that it's dark, because I wouldn't be able to see a thing and would end up tripping over them. Perhaps reflective coats would be a good idea.
Plans for today include painting cake decorations and making a batch of tiny meringues. I must also make sure I allow time to cook a proper meal. Yesterday, Sunday, we ended up with one thrown together feast of leftover Indian for Charles and a cheese sandwich for me! Not good.
Sunday, 17 October 2010
NOW I CAN GET BACK...
... to rabbiting on about Lily and Rose on this blog!
Although, to tell the truth, they are now such grown up girls and are so much quieter than a few months ago, it's sometimes quite difficult to find much to say other than 'The girls got up, ran around a bit and jumped up when we went to greet them, went out for a wee and a poop, came in and ran around a bit more. Then they went for a walk, came home, got tired and lay down, had breakfast, ran around a bit, lay down and had a sleep, woke up,ran around, barked at the postman, went out for a wee, got tired and lay down for a bit...'
And so it goes on, the only change coming in an evening when its, 'Went through for telly time, Lily snuggled up with her Dad and Rose watched out for the adverts so she could bark at them, got tired, fell asleep and had to be carried to bed!' It's the same every night! I say, 'Come on you two, it's bed time and they both wake up long enough to look at me, then immediately go all floppy and lie down again, eyes squeezed shut as if to say, "You want me to go to bed - well you can carry me then."
We get them into their room and let them out for a sleepy wee, then they stagger in on tired little legs, straight into bed!
It's a dog's life all right.
Although, to tell the truth, they are now such grown up girls and are so much quieter than a few months ago, it's sometimes quite difficult to find much to say other than 'The girls got up, ran around a bit and jumped up when we went to greet them, went out for a wee and a poop, came in and ran around a bit more. Then they went for a walk, came home, got tired and lay down, had breakfast, ran around a bit, lay down and had a sleep, woke up,ran around, barked at the postman, went out for a wee, got tired and lay down for a bit...'
And so it goes on, the only change coming in an evening when its, 'Went through for telly time, Lily snuggled up with her Dad and Rose watched out for the adverts so she could bark at them, got tired, fell asleep and had to be carried to bed!' It's the same every night! I say, 'Come on you two, it's bed time and they both wake up long enough to look at me, then immediately go all floppy and lie down again, eyes squeezed shut as if to say, "You want me to go to bed - well you can carry me then."
We get them into their room and let them out for a sleepy wee, then they stagger in on tired little legs, straight into bed!
It's a dog's life all right.
AND AS IF I DIDN'T HAVE ENOUGH TO DO...
... Charles has created another blog for me - the Cakes A-Go-Go blog!
He's done a fab job on it - but when I'm going to have time to write on it I have no idea!
He's done a fab job on it - but when I'm going to have time to write on it I have no idea!
HANGING MY HEAD IN SHAME!
This is indeed what I am doing, as this is the first post I've made on my beloved blog today. never before have I been so tardy! (Love that word)
I honestly don't think I've sat down today - apart from in the car when we went to the wholesalers this morning, but that doesn't really count.
I've spent hours making little sugarpaste decorations and then, just when I thought I'd finished, Charles decided he'd like some cakes to take to school tomorrow for the visitors he's expecting!
I think this buffet on Thursday has turned into a bit of a double whammy. It's one thing to be doing food for 70 people, and yet another to be making a celebration cupcake tower, but doing the two together is...
....AAAAAAAAAARGH!
I honestly don't think I've sat down today - apart from in the car when we went to the wholesalers this morning, but that doesn't really count.
I've spent hours making little sugarpaste decorations and then, just when I thought I'd finished, Charles decided he'd like some cakes to take to school tomorrow for the visitors he's expecting!
I think this buffet on Thursday has turned into a bit of a double whammy. It's one thing to be doing food for 70 people, and yet another to be making a celebration cupcake tower, but doing the two together is...
....AAAAAAAAAARGH!
Saturday, 16 October 2010
BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!!
Right - where do I start?
To be honest, I'm struggling to remember this morning!
Once I got back from shopping, I set to work trying out ideas for the retirement cake. This took a while, but I now feel that I know what I'm going to do and will spend tomorrow cutting out all the bits I need, then painting them when they've dried out.
Once I was happy with the plan, I made a batch of cakes and tried different toppings, really just for photographic purposes. The guy who's hopefully doing my logo is going to use some of our images, so I wanted to try to give him as full a range as possible. Once we've got them formatted, I'll get Charles to post some on here.
To be honest, I'm struggling to remember this morning!
Once I got back from shopping, I set to work trying out ideas for the retirement cake. This took a while, but I now feel that I know what I'm going to do and will spend tomorrow cutting out all the bits I need, then painting them when they've dried out.
Once I was happy with the plan, I made a batch of cakes and tried different toppings, really just for photographic purposes. The guy who's hopefully doing my logo is going to use some of our images, so I wanted to try to give him as full a range as possible. Once we've got them formatted, I'll get Charles to post some on here.
I DREAMT...
... about cakes last night! More precisely, I dreamt about cakes for people who like fishing! Wonder why?!
Charles is currently setting up an email account for the business, so each day brings us one step closer to being able to launch.
I'm off to Morpeth in a while. Just need to escape from the confines of the house for a bit before I start going stir crazy. I occurred to me yesterday that I've been stuck in since last weekend, largely because of having to be around for deliveries, so I'm ready for a break now.
Charles and James are off to the match this afternoon. I'll just have to keep an eye on SSN while trying out prototype decorations for the retirement do next week. I have lots of ideas, but how practical they will turn out to be I have no idea.
Lily and Rose are playing tag around the living room at the moment. It's a well loved game and involves both girls lying motionless and staring each other out, until one can stand it no longer and starts the chase. They hoon up and down the length of the room for a few minutes, then collapse in a heap and begin the process all over again!
Charles is currently setting up an email account for the business, so each day brings us one step closer to being able to launch.
I'm off to Morpeth in a while. Just need to escape from the confines of the house for a bit before I start going stir crazy. I occurred to me yesterday that I've been stuck in since last weekend, largely because of having to be around for deliveries, so I'm ready for a break now.
Charles and James are off to the match this afternoon. I'll just have to keep an eye on SSN while trying out prototype decorations for the retirement do next week. I have lots of ideas, but how practical they will turn out to be I have no idea.
Lily and Rose are playing tag around the living room at the moment. It's a well loved game and involves both girls lying motionless and staring each other out, until one can stand it no longer and starts the chase. They hoon up and down the length of the room for a few minutes, then collapse in a heap and begin the process all over again!
Friday, 15 October 2010
JAMES AND CLAIRE
Just want to say thank you for a lovely lunch. It was a real treat.
Mind you, I feel very full now and won't be eating for the rest of the day!
Mind you, I feel very full now and won't be eating for the rest of the day!
DON'T LIKE IT...
... When dannymatt isn't around. It feels very lonely on here.
I know he's up to his eyes at the moment, so can understand that he can't mooch around on here like he usually does - but I do miss him!
I know he's up to his eyes at the moment, so can understand that he can't mooch around on here like he usually does - but I do miss him!
BLESS HIM - CHARLES THAT IS!
Not content with asking me to rustle up a little buffet for 70 people next week...
... he announced last night that, in addition to the cupcakes, he would like a cutting cake as well! This means serious scariness on my part as it will require a certain degree of professional (!) decoration. Am now very worried.
... he announced last night that, in addition to the cupcakes, he would like a cutting cake as well! This means serious scariness on my part as it will require a certain degree of professional (!) decoration. Am now very worried.
Thursday, 14 October 2010
VERY NICE MORNING
Catching up with my cousin!
She's going to send me lots of info about my dad's side of the family when she gets back home, so I can make a start on the family tree.
The girls are having a sleepy day today and I'm still waiting to take them out for a walk. Lazy little things!
Just thinking: Isn't it kind of Liverpool to take the mantel of Premiership Joke Club away from NUFC? Makes a pleasant change!
She's going to send me lots of info about my dad's side of the family when she gets back home, so I can make a start on the family tree.
The girls are having a sleepy day today and I'm still waiting to take them out for a walk. Lazy little things!
Just thinking: Isn't it kind of Liverpool to take the mantel of Premiership Joke Club away from NUFC? Makes a pleasant change!
10.30 ALREADY!
God - Where does time go?
I wouldn't care, I was up early as well. Had to clean the house, do the laundry, disinfect outside where the girls have been AND, after thoroughly washing my hands of course, made batches of coffee and walnut, lemon, peach melba and raspberry cupcakes.
My cousin, Anne, has just rung to say that, now she's turned round after taking the road to Wooler (she's driving from Craster - not that she lives there, she lives in Lancashire and is staying in Northumberland on holiday) she (and a friend!) will be with me shortly.
Hope they like cakes!
I wouldn't care, I was up early as well. Had to clean the house, do the laundry, disinfect outside where the girls have been AND, after thoroughly washing my hands of course, made batches of coffee and walnut, lemon, peach melba and raspberry cupcakes.
My cousin, Anne, has just rung to say that, now she's turned round after taking the road to Wooler (she's driving from Craster - not that she lives there, she lives in Lancashire and is staying in Northumberland on holiday) she (and a friend!) will be with me shortly.
Hope they like cakes!
Wednesday, 13 October 2010
MY COUSIN IS COMING TOMORROW!
This is somewhat unusual, as it must be years since she last came to visit, but I've just had a phone call to say she's in Craster and would like to come over in the morning.
That's fine (although I had planned to be busy baking, but that can wait I suppose) and I shall take the opportunity to pick her brains about my Dad's side of the family so I can make a start on the family history I've been threatening to do for years now.
That's fine (although I had planned to be busy baking, but that can wait I suppose) and I shall take the opportunity to pick her brains about my Dad's side of the family so I can make a start on the family history I've been threatening to do for years now.
IN LIMBO TODAY
Yeay - waiting around for deliveries again, but it's a bit too early to make cakes for delivering on Friday, although I want to start experimenting with photos for the website, so have just popped a small batch of chocolate cupcakes into the oven to decorate and try to capture artistically later on!!
There's a big pan of strawberries simmering away to sieve and use for really fruity frosting.
Other than that, I'm watching the miners' rescue on Sky. I can't get over how clean and well they all look. How have they done that? Did they have showers down there? Amazing.
There's a big pan of strawberries simmering away to sieve and use for really fruity frosting.
Other than that, I'm watching the miners' rescue on Sky. I can't get over how clean and well they all look. How have they done that? Did they have showers down there? Amazing.
CHILEAN MINERS
What a relief to see them finally being brought to the surface. Five up so far, still a long way to go, but hopefully all will be okay.
Tuesday, 12 October 2010
NOW I FEEL ASHAMED.
There I was, a few minutes ago, whinging on about having to wait around today...
... and then I turned SSN on and remembered those miners who've been stuck below ground for weeks.
Made me feel very humble and rather silly.
... and then I turned SSN on and remembered those miners who've been stuck below ground for weeks.
Made me feel very humble and rather silly.
GOOD GRIEF!
I really am no good at all at waiting around and being patient.
What's that old saying about all things come to he (or she) who waits?
Well, that's as maybe, but it's flippin' frustrating in the meantime. I'm putting my life on hold for a fridge/freezer for God's sake.
What's that old saying about all things come to he (or she) who waits?
Well, that's as maybe, but it's flippin' frustrating in the meantime. I'm putting my life on hold for a fridge/freezer for God's sake.
CAKE STAND HAS ARRIVED
But...
... looks a bit complicated, so I won't be even trying to assemble it on my own!
(Wonder how that works when/if I'm doing a wedding?)
... looks a bit complicated, so I won't be even trying to assemble it on my own!
(Wonder how that works when/if I'm doing a wedding?)
TWO UNRELATED OBSERVATIONS
This morning it occurred to me that I almost never, ever go on the NUFC chat sites any more! I used to be addicted to them. What has happened? Either I've moved on, or the sites have become full of utter tosh - most probably the latter.
Also - four weeks after slamming the car door on my thumb, it looks very likely that I'm going to lose the nail and, from the growth that has taken place since the incident, I can see no sign of new nail emerging from the nailbed. Oh God - I'm going to have a deformed thumb!
Also - four weeks after slamming the car door on my thumb, it looks very likely that I'm going to lose the nail and, from the growth that has taken place since the incident, I can see no sign of new nail emerging from the nailbed. Oh God - I'm going to have a deformed thumb!
HANGING ABOUT!
Yup.
Another day of waiting round for stuff.
And to be honest, there will be many more days like this, judging by the number of orders I've placed recently. (If you're reading this Jim - it's all stuff for Cakes A-Go-Go - nothing exciting!)
Have now got to a point where I really need to start keeping a file so that I can remain reasonably organised. (Hmmm. I thought I'd said goodbye to Lever Arch when I retired! But then again, I always DID love those plastic wallets, so maybe it's not a bad thing!)
We've had an email from an illustrator (in Texas) who may help us with the graphics we need to accompany the logo. We've spent hours trawling through possible images and have found nothing really suitable, so have had to resort to getting something designed specifically for us. (More expense!)
Right, time to sort out the breakfast room before the fridge arrives.
Another day of waiting round for stuff.
And to be honest, there will be many more days like this, judging by the number of orders I've placed recently. (If you're reading this Jim - it's all stuff for Cakes A-Go-Go - nothing exciting!)
Have now got to a point where I really need to start keeping a file so that I can remain reasonably organised. (Hmmm. I thought I'd said goodbye to Lever Arch when I retired! But then again, I always DID love those plastic wallets, so maybe it's not a bad thing!)
We've had an email from an illustrator (in Texas) who may help us with the graphics we need to accompany the logo. We've spent hours trawling through possible images and have found nothing really suitable, so have had to resort to getting something designed specifically for us. (More expense!)
Right, time to sort out the breakfast room before the fridge arrives.
Monday, 11 October 2010
GOOD JOB!
That's the main content of the website done. Still needs a bit of tweaking here and there and some work on the ordering side of things, but once we've got photos of the entire range it should look pretty good.
Feel quite a sense of achievement actually!
Got notification that the wedding cake stand (all seven tiers) is arriving tomorrow - and it will take every ounce of willpower not to have a marathon baking session to see what 100 cupcakes really look like on it!! However - I shall wait until all the ribbon, chiffon and decorative bits arrive - then I'll have a go!! In fact, I've just thought - I've got to do a buffet for 70 people for Charles in a fortnight, so will use the cakes I'm making for that - and take photos at the same time.
Sorted!
Feel quite a sense of achievement actually!
Got notification that the wedding cake stand (all seven tiers) is arriving tomorrow - and it will take every ounce of willpower not to have a marathon baking session to see what 100 cupcakes really look like on it!! However - I shall wait until all the ribbon, chiffon and decorative bits arrive - then I'll have a go!! In fact, I've just thought - I've got to do a buffet for 70 people for Charles in a fortnight, so will use the cakes I'm making for that - and take photos at the same time.
Sorted!
THIS CAKE LARK HAD BETTER TAKE OFF!
I've put some orders in for stuff this morning and it just occurred to me that it actually does cost a bit to set up a business - even a small one like mine.
I've done quite a bit on the website, although it won't be going live for quite a while yet. Still at least the majority of the copy will have been decided.
Haven't made a single cake today! To be honest I'm itching to have a try at chocolate cupcakes with a Rolo centre (may not work, but worth a try), but I'm making myself concentrate on other stuff that needs to be done first.
Oh - and tomorrow we SHOULD take delivery of our loan fridge/freezer all being well. The girls will hate that as it's going in their room!
I've done quite a bit on the website, although it won't be going live for quite a while yet. Still at least the majority of the copy will have been decided.
Haven't made a single cake today! To be honest I'm itching to have a try at chocolate cupcakes with a Rolo centre (may not work, but worth a try), but I'm making myself concentrate on other stuff that needs to be done first.
Oh - and tomorrow we SHOULD take delivery of our loan fridge/freezer all being well. The girls will hate that as it's going in their room!
TASK FOR TODAY...
... make a start on the text for the website.
Have had a good rummage around other sites, so have a good idea of what the 'competition' is doing and now need to find a way of making ours better and a bit more individual. (I've always been impressed with the way the guys at 'Innocent' promote their products. Very tongue in cheek and humorous. In fact, even if you don't buy their stuff, the next time you go shopping, make a bit of time to read their cartons - even the base - and I can guarantee you will find something to chuckle about!)
Charles won't be home until pretty late this evening as he's got a Governors Meeting, so it'll seem like quite a long day - for him AND for me and the girls!
Have had a good rummage around other sites, so have a good idea of what the 'competition' is doing and now need to find a way of making ours better and a bit more individual. (I've always been impressed with the way the guys at 'Innocent' promote their products. Very tongue in cheek and humorous. In fact, even if you don't buy their stuff, the next time you go shopping, make a bit of time to read their cartons - even the base - and I can guarantee you will find something to chuckle about!)
Charles won't be home until pretty late this evening as he's got a Governors Meeting, so it'll seem like quite a long day - for him AND for me and the girls!
Sunday, 10 October 2010
WHAT NEXT??
For the first time since I retired I feel really excited (and daunted, in equal measure) about the future.
That may sound as if I've felt a bit stagnant during the past year, but that is not the case at all. It's been great to have that time to adjust to a new way of life - AND to get Lily and Rose sorted out - but it really does feel as if it's the right time for a change in direction.
Typically though, I can never get things done fast enough and am finding it difficult to remain patient while getting everything in place. I know it has to be this way, but I can't wait to find out whether or not this is going to work!
Before Helen left this afternoon, we drew up a list of tasks that need to be done during the next three weeks, so I will have plenty to get on with. (I've ordered a 7-tier wedding cake stand for cupcakes which should arrive within the next day or so - very exciting!)
It's been pretty quiet here this evening. The girls have slept pretty much since Helen and Bill left and we've been slumped in front of the TV, watching rubbish - sorry Dannymatt, but there are times when only rubbish will do)!
That may sound as if I've felt a bit stagnant during the past year, but that is not the case at all. It's been great to have that time to adjust to a new way of life - AND to get Lily and Rose sorted out - but it really does feel as if it's the right time for a change in direction.
Typically though, I can never get things done fast enough and am finding it difficult to remain patient while getting everything in place. I know it has to be this way, but I can't wait to find out whether or not this is going to work!
Before Helen left this afternoon, we drew up a list of tasks that need to be done during the next three weeks, so I will have plenty to get on with. (I've ordered a 7-tier wedding cake stand for cupcakes which should arrive within the next day or so - very exciting!)
It's been pretty quiet here this evening. The girls have slept pretty much since Helen and Bill left and we've been slumped in front of the TV, watching rubbish - sorry Dannymatt, but there are times when only rubbish will do)!
THE SUNDAY AFTERNOON FEELING
Is what we've all got right now! Lunch is over and we have collapsed in front of the telly (the boys are watching rugby) and Helen and I are continuing our discussions about Cakes A-Go-Go and the website design (amongst other planning).
We've had a lovely weekend really and it has been an opportunity for all four of us to really consider the impact this business venture may have on all of us. We've agreed that we need to build good old work life balance into it from the outset and will be careful to control the extent to which we are all involved. At the outset it will have to be my baby because the others are still employed in proper jobs,(Shame really) so we've decided to start fairly small and build up gradually once the others are able to join in.
Helen is coming back during half term so that we can progress things further in terms of publicity, standardising recipes, photographing each item on our menu and generally getting to a point where trading can actually commence.
The girls have also enjoyed their weekend and all the extra attention they've received and even managed to let us all have a lie-in this morning!
We've had a lovely weekend really and it has been an opportunity for all four of us to really consider the impact this business venture may have on all of us. We've agreed that we need to build good old work life balance into it from the outset and will be careful to control the extent to which we are all involved. At the outset it will have to be my baby because the others are still employed in proper jobs,(Shame really) so we've decided to start fairly small and build up gradually once the others are able to join in.
Helen is coming back during half term so that we can progress things further in terms of publicity, standardising recipes, photographing each item on our menu and generally getting to a point where trading can actually commence.
The girls have also enjoyed their weekend and all the extra attention they've received and even managed to let us all have a lie-in this morning!
Saturday, 9 October 2010
CAN'T MOVE!
Stuffed to the gills!
Cafe 21 - fabulous, but ate far too much.
My choice - Starter: Twice baked cheese souffle with cream and chive sauce, Main: Fishcakes with parsley sauce and spinach, Pud: Rice pudding with apple compote and blackberries all washed down with a bottle of red and another of white and a cappuccino to really finish things off completely!
Cafe 21 - fabulous, but ate far too much.
My choice - Starter: Twice baked cheese souffle with cream and chive sauce, Main: Fishcakes with parsley sauce and spinach, Pud: Rice pudding with apple compote and blackberries all washed down with a bottle of red and another of white and a cappuccino to really finish things off completely!
LAZY START
Just lounging around watching the Commonwealth Games (well, someone has to) eating lemon cake and generally chilling!
Friday, 8 October 2010
THINK WE NEED TO...
... get a new video of the girls made. It must be months since we did the last one. Not that they've changed a huge amount, but it would still be good to update it.
They're going to be spoiled rotten this weekend! Auntie Helen can be counted on for that!
Looking forward to lunch at Cafe 21 tomorrow, where we will be joined by James and Claire. It's actually quite nice not to have a game to worry about this weekend, especially after the turmoil of the last match.
They're going to be spoiled rotten this weekend! Auntie Helen can be counted on for that!
Looking forward to lunch at Cafe 21 tomorrow, where we will be joined by James and Claire. It's actually quite nice not to have a game to worry about this weekend, especially after the turmoil of the last match.
FRIDAY EVENING...
... and what a miserable one it it as well.
In fact, it's been a thoroughly miserable day really. Longfram seems to be right in the midst of heavy,low cloud, and it doesn't appear to be going anywhere quickly.
Charles got home reasonably early today and is currently on the phone to those, (not so) helpful people at John Lewis. Since Wednesday's conversation, there has been no further contact about a loan fridge/freezer, so we are getting really frustrated with lack of progress now.
That aside, we're looking forward to a weekend with Helen and Bill, who are hopefully driving up the M1 right now.
The girls have slept most of the day - but are now wide awake and having a grumbled conversation between themselves because we haven't allowed them through to the lounge yet!!
In fact, it's been a thoroughly miserable day really. Longfram seems to be right in the midst of heavy,low cloud, and it doesn't appear to be going anywhere quickly.
Charles got home reasonably early today and is currently on the phone to those, (not so) helpful people at John Lewis. Since Wednesday's conversation, there has been no further contact about a loan fridge/freezer, so we are getting really frustrated with lack of progress now.
That aside, we're looking forward to a weekend with Helen and Bill, who are hopefully driving up the M1 right now.
The girls have slept most of the day - but are now wide awake and having a grumbled conversation between themselves because we haven't allowed them through to the lounge yet!!
BEAUTY SLEEP!
Clearly the girls have realised that once they are bathed and brushed, they do in fact look beautiful - and they are working hard to maintain this by sleeping the morning away.
Or maybe, they're still recovering from their open cast mining yesterday!
Whatever, it's very pleasant for me as I can get on with stuff undisturbed. Peach melba cupcakes are made, there's a plum and apple tart in the oven now and shortly I'm going to put a topping on some tiny chocolate and mint cakes that would make great petit fours. Believe it or not, they've even got chopped After Eights in the sponge!
Helen and Bill are coming for the weekend and are setting off straight after school, so we should be able tohave a good discussion about the business, as of course, eventually Helen will be coming into it with me. There's still so much to do before I feel I can 'launch' the product on the market!! Labelling, logo, website, coolboxes for transporting orders... on and on it goes, but with luck things should be sorted by half term which will give me a few weeks before Christmas to get up and running.
Or maybe, they're still recovering from their open cast mining yesterday!
Whatever, it's very pleasant for me as I can get on with stuff undisturbed. Peach melba cupcakes are made, there's a plum and apple tart in the oven now and shortly I'm going to put a topping on some tiny chocolate and mint cakes that would make great petit fours. Believe it or not, they've even got chopped After Eights in the sponge!
Helen and Bill are coming for the weekend and are setting off straight after school, so we should be able tohave a good discussion about the business, as of course, eventually Helen will be coming into it with me. There's still so much to do before I feel I can 'launch' the product on the market!! Labelling, logo, website, coolboxes for transporting orders... on and on it goes, but with luck things should be sorted by half term which will give me a few weeks before Christmas to get up and running.
Thursday, 7 October 2010
BATHTIME
I actually think the girls were quite relived when they realised it was bathtime tonight.
They were remarkably patient during the whole proceedings and now look fabulous!
Mind you, the bath took a bit of scrubbing once they'd finished!!
They were remarkably patient during the whole proceedings and now look fabulous!
Mind you, the bath took a bit of scrubbing once they'd finished!!
WHAT I OMITTED TO MENTION...
... in all the earlier excitement, was that during my two hour session with carolyn from Food Standards, the girls were outside...
...DIGGING!
There I thought how good they were being, but when I went to call them in, they appeared from the side of the house (which I thought I had barricaded) absolutely black from digging a tiny section under the fence that is no more than a couple of centimetres wide, but now has a ten centimetre ditch running along it! They had pitch black faces and paws and couldn't understand why I was somewhat less than enthusiastic about greeting them with cuddles!!
Bath night for Westies tonight, I think!
...DIGGING!
There I thought how good they were being, but when I went to call them in, they appeared from the side of the house (which I thought I had barricaded) absolutely black from digging a tiny section under the fence that is no more than a couple of centimetres wide, but now has a ten centimetre ditch running along it! They had pitch black faces and paws and couldn't understand why I was somewhat less than enthusiastic about greeting them with cuddles!!
Bath night for Westies tonight, I think!
AND THE DREAM...
... HAS SUDDENLY BECOME THE REALITY!
After a two hour full food hygiene inspection and interview, the premises (and I) have been passed fit to commence trading as Cakes A-Go-Go!!!
After a two hour full food hygiene inspection and interview, the premises (and I) have been passed fit to commence trading as Cakes A-Go-Go!!!
KITCHEN INSPECTION TODAY!!
And it feels ALMOST as bad as Ofsted!
Who would have thought it could be so important? Not in terms of hygiene standards - I don't have any problem with that - but to ME personally.
It might help if I knew exactly what the purpose of today's visit is. Perhaps I should have asked when the date was originally fixed, but I didn't think at the time.
Anyway - by 10.30 it should be over and I'll have a clearer idea.
(I've already explained that I have dogs, but I'm making sure, on this occasion, that they are playing out during the inspection!)
Who would have thought it could be so important? Not in terms of hygiene standards - I don't have any problem with that - but to ME personally.
It might help if I knew exactly what the purpose of today's visit is. Perhaps I should have asked when the date was originally fixed, but I didn't think at the time.
Anyway - by 10.30 it should be over and I'll have a clearer idea.
(I've already explained that I have dogs, but I'm making sure, on this occasion, that they are playing out during the inspection!)
Wednesday, 6 October 2010
AT LEAST...
... a phone call from Lillian at John Lewis.
She's going to see if there are other colours in stock and, failing that, will sort out a loan appliance for the time being.
Good, at least we'll have some sort of chilling facilities fairly soon.
(Just to be clear on that point: We do already have two fridges and a freezer, but a) they're stocked to the max already with family stuff and b) I really like the idea of being able to keep one area solely for the 'business.')
She's going to see if there are other colours in stock and, failing that, will sort out a loan appliance for the time being.
Good, at least we'll have some sort of chilling facilities fairly soon.
(Just to be clear on that point: We do already have two fridges and a freezer, but a) they're stocked to the max already with family stuff and b) I really like the idea of being able to keep one area solely for the 'business.')
BETTER DAY TODAY!
So far as the girls are concerned that is. Much calmer I'm glad to say.
As for me - I'm not feeling quite so clam, as I'm still waiting for lewis's to get back to me after a further phone call to them this morning. Charles wanted to know if Samsung have other colours in stock for immediate delivery, but so far no one's got back to me with an answer.
The really annoying thing is that I've found the same model on line, in stock and out for delivery in 2 - 3 days! How frustrating is that?
As for me - I'm not feeling quite so clam, as I'm still waiting for lewis's to get back to me after a further phone call to them this morning. Charles wanted to know if Samsung have other colours in stock for immediate delivery, but so far no one's got back to me with an answer.
The really annoying thing is that I've found the same model on line, in stock and out for delivery in 2 - 3 days! How frustrating is that?
DON'T HOLD YOUR BREATH.
That's what we should have been told by the sales people in John Lewis's electrical department.
Having initially been told, on Sept 18th, that we would have delivery of our fridge freezer in a week, we were then told that it wouldn't arrive at Samsung until THIS week and just now I've been informed that it will 'probably' get to Samsung next week and 'could' be delivered to us the following week!
This is absolutely no good to me at all, especially as I've got a couple of buffets to organise - the first of which is for Charles on 20th October and for a mere 70 people!
I was told this morning that it may be possible to have a piece of loan kit sent out from John Lewis, which is fair enough - but what a faff!
Having initially been told, on Sept 18th, that we would have delivery of our fridge freezer in a week, we were then told that it wouldn't arrive at Samsung until THIS week and just now I've been informed that it will 'probably' get to Samsung next week and 'could' be delivered to us the following week!
This is absolutely no good to me at all, especially as I've got a couple of buffets to organise - the first of which is for Charles on 20th October and for a mere 70 people!
I was told this morning that it may be possible to have a piece of loan kit sent out from John Lewis, which is fair enough - but what a faff!
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
ALL CALM AGAIN NOW!
Mind you it took a while. Poor Rose was very confused by the frantic behaviour of her normally laid back sister.
The girls are waiting patiently for their dad to return - bearing takeaway pizzas - and James has arrived to stay overnight. he's currently engrossed in setting up his new I-phone and, when Charles has eaten, he'll be sorting out the printer, so it looks like being a very quiet evening in this house.
My kitchen is now pristine! Won't want to use anything until after Thursday's visit! (May have to have a takeaway tomorrow as well then!)
The girls are waiting patiently for their dad to return - bearing takeaway pizzas - and James has arrived to stay overnight. he's currently engrossed in setting up his new I-phone and, when Charles has eaten, he'll be sorting out the printer, so it looks like being a very quiet evening in this house.
My kitchen is now pristine! Won't want to use anything until after Thursday's visit! (May have to have a takeaway tomorrow as well then!)
OH DEAR, WHAT CAN THE MATTER BE?
Lily's got herself into a real state about something and I haven't a clue what it is.
I'd got back from Morpeth (having treated myself to two new cupcake books) and after taking the girls out for a walk, we got back home and she started scratching around the fence, turning on Rose who was equally inquisitive and has been getting her knickers in a knot about whatever it is, ever since.
Rose is now oblivious to it all and is happily munching on one of their tiny chewy bones, but Lily can't settle, is pacing around clearly anxious about something. This is, of course, a complete reversal of their normal behaviours, so clearly very strange.
I've been out and checked around everywhere and can find nothing out of the ordinary. It's at times like this that you really wish they could tell you what's wrong!
I'd got back from Morpeth (having treated myself to two new cupcake books) and after taking the girls out for a walk, we got back home and she started scratching around the fence, turning on Rose who was equally inquisitive and has been getting her knickers in a knot about whatever it is, ever since.
Rose is now oblivious to it all and is happily munching on one of their tiny chewy bones, but Lily can't settle, is pacing around clearly anxious about something. This is, of course, a complete reversal of their normal behaviours, so clearly very strange.
I've been out and checked around everywhere and can find nothing out of the ordinary. It's at times like this that you really wish they could tell you what's wrong!
DARK MORNINGS...
... Don't you just hate them?
And even worse, in a couple of weeks we'll have those hateful dark afternoons as well.
We may have to look at alternative routes for the dogs' morning and evening walks as there are no streetlights down the lanes! Either that or invest in a powerful torch.
Right - the oven's on and I'm whizzing up a batch of chocolate cupcakes. Then, when it's cooled down again, I shall spend a rewarding few hours cleaning it, not that it's THAT bad, but I don't want to fail my kitchen inspection because of a manky oven! (I'm still not sure if it IS an actual inspection, or just a chat about the kitchen facilities generally - but I'm taking no chances!!)
And even worse, in a couple of weeks we'll have those hateful dark afternoons as well.
We may have to look at alternative routes for the dogs' morning and evening walks as there are no streetlights down the lanes! Either that or invest in a powerful torch.
Right - the oven's on and I'm whizzing up a batch of chocolate cupcakes. Then, when it's cooled down again, I shall spend a rewarding few hours cleaning it, not that it's THAT bad, but I don't want to fail my kitchen inspection because of a manky oven! (I'm still not sure if it IS an actual inspection, or just a chat about the kitchen facilities generally - but I'm taking no chances!!)
Monday, 4 October 2010
STUCK IN THE HOUSE...
...waiting for James's phone to be delivered! And I'l be here all day tomorrow too as we've got a printer coming. Oh, and with luck, we MAY get some news from Samsung this week. That would be nice!
The girls are flat out asleep after their early start.
I've completed my Food Management Strategy, or at least I've done everything I can do at the moment, there may well be more to add after Thursday's inspection.
The girls are flat out asleep after their early start.
I've completed my Food Management Strategy, or at least I've done everything I can do at the moment, there may well be more to add after Thursday's inspection.
EARLY START TODAY
Don't know what was going on, but the girls decided to get us up at just gone six this morning. Thanks girls!
Not to worry though - I've got plenty to do this week, so can put the early start to good use.
It could be a vitally important week actually. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Not to worry though - I've got plenty to do this week, so can put the early start to good use.
It could be a vitally important week actually. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Sunday, 3 October 2010
BEEN WORKING ON...
... my Food Management Strategy most of this afternoon (once that farce of a football match was out of the way anyway) and have completed the sections on Cross-Contamination and Cleaning. Just got the Chilling and Cooking sections to get through now!
Charles calmed down eventually and finished off the spreadsheet the he began yesterday. We now have a complete breakdown of the cost of ingredients for each recipe and a cost per unit that includes my time.
I'm beginning to think that this may actually happen. let's hope Thursday goes well, then we can get on with all the exciting stuff!
Charles calmed down eventually and finished off the spreadsheet the he began yesterday. We now have a complete breakdown of the cost of ingredients for each recipe and a cost per unit that includes my time.
I'm beginning to think that this may actually happen. let's hope Thursday goes well, then we can get on with all the exciting stuff!
WISH WE HADN'T...
... paid to watch this flaming football match.
19 minutes gone and we've lost one of our best players to a suspected broken leg AND given away a penalty, as a result we're one down already.
Sick.
19 minutes gone and we've lost one of our best players to a suspected broken leg AND given away a penalty, as a result we're one down already.
Sick.
Saturday, 2 October 2010
JUST GIVE CHARLES A SPREADSHEET...
... and he'll spend many a happy hour filling it in!
He's spent the afternoon working out unit costs for cupcakes and traybakes and has been in his element - especially when it transpired that I could actually make this little business venture worthwhile.
Fortunately for me, he really enjoys this sort of stuff, whereas I just see it as a bit of a pain, so hopefully, he'll be able to keep me on track in this area.
Have just made some individual Bakewell Squares and the batch of Ginger Shortbread ready for dannymatt on Monday.
Now we're going to settle down with the girls for a telly fest - Strictly and X-Factor - excellent!
He's spent the afternoon working out unit costs for cupcakes and traybakes and has been in his element - especially when it transpired that I could actually make this little business venture worthwhile.
Fortunately for me, he really enjoys this sort of stuff, whereas I just see it as a bit of a pain, so hopefully, he'll be able to keep me on track in this area.
Have just made some individual Bakewell Squares and the batch of Ginger Shortbread ready for dannymatt on Monday.
Now we're going to settle down with the girls for a telly fest - Strictly and X-Factor - excellent!
WITHOUT ME EVEN REALISING IT...
...Charles got up early with the girls this morning, and by the time I roused myself, he'd groomed both of them to within an inch of their lives and we now have two beautifully fluffy little dogs.
Fortunately it's a better day today and they are going to be able to get outside. Yesterday they just moped about the house all day, reluctant to step outside at all.
Charles and I are busy researching printers and trying to choose a logo design for the cake business. We're off to the wholesalers this morning to start buying stock, so things are really beginning to move now.
Of course all this could come to a grinding halt on Thursday if my kitchen is deemed inappropriate during the inspection, so we're not making any definite decisions until we've (hopefully) got approval.
(Hope the wedding that Claire and James are going to today goes well. At least it's sunny and not too cold.)
Fortunately it's a better day today and they are going to be able to get outside. Yesterday they just moped about the house all day, reluctant to step outside at all.
Charles and I are busy researching printers and trying to choose a logo design for the cake business. We're off to the wholesalers this morning to start buying stock, so things are really beginning to move now.
Of course all this could come to a grinding halt on Thursday if my kitchen is deemed inappropriate during the inspection, so we're not making any definite decisions until we've (hopefully) got approval.
(Hope the wedding that Claire and James are going to today goes well. At least it's sunny and not too cold.)
Friday, 1 October 2010
THE GILS ARE...
... flatly refusing to go outside at all in this horrible weather!
I've tried commanding, cajoling, carrying them out and running inside, only for them to beat me back inside, standing outside with an umbrella over them - and all because they have got to have their legs crossed by now. There's only so long they can go without having a wee!
I've tried commanding, cajoling, carrying them out and running inside, only for them to beat me back inside, standing outside with an umbrella over them - and all because they have got to have their legs crossed by now. There's only so long they can go without having a wee!
NOTHING TO REPORT TODAY
Bit of a tedious morning really.
The girls have slept through it, only stirring to bark at the postman and then returning to their snoozing straightaway.
I decided to change the cupcakes from peaches and cream to peach melba and they are really yummy. In fact, I am seriously concerned about the number of samples I keep having to force (!) myself to try. I think I need to assemble a taste testing team to help me out, otherwise I'm going to end up resembling a barrage balloon. (Those balloons get everywhere!)
The girls have slept through it, only stirring to bark at the postman and then returning to their snoozing straightaway.
I decided to change the cupcakes from peaches and cream to peach melba and they are really yummy. In fact, I am seriously concerned about the number of samples I keep having to force (!) myself to try. I think I need to assemble a taste testing team to help me out, otherwise I'm going to end up resembling a barrage balloon. (Those balloons get everywhere!)
DANNYMATT...
I've just written a long response to last nights crazed comments - only to remember that I was doing so on the laptop that doesn't publish my comments!
So - the abridged version:
Charles also had hot hair in 1977. This was the year we got married and it had disappeared within 12 months!
James doesn't think he will go bald, because he's read somewhere that it is the mother's line that determines when hair loss will occur and as my Dad had a pretty good head of hair well into his eighties, Jim is clinging to that theory.
I actually like Phil Collins!
So - the abridged version:
Charles also had hot hair in 1977. This was the year we got married and it had disappeared within 12 months!
James doesn't think he will go bald, because he's read somewhere that it is the mother's line that determines when hair loss will occur and as my Dad had a pretty good head of hair well into his eighties, Jim is clinging to that theory.
I actually like Phil Collins!
FRIDAY ONCE MORE
And Charles has gone off, counting the remaining weeks before his retirement starts. He's trying to say the weeks are going too fast - but I know this is just a ruse!
The girls have had breakfast and are currently knocking seven bells out of each other as they play fight around their room. Hopefully, we'll have a less stressful day than yesterday, rabbits and balloons permitting.
Actually, I can't go anywhere this morning as I'm expecting a couple of deliveries and Sod's Law dictates that they will arrive while I'm out of the house - so girls were stuck in for a while.
I'm making peaches and cream cupcakes today. Not the Hummingbird ones, I'm going to try and make up my own recipe. I just need to remember to write everything down as I go, because if they;re a success I shall need to remember what I did for the next time.
It occurred to me last night, that should the Grasmere Gingerbread be saleable, I wouldn't actually be able to label it as such. It would have to be something like Oaty Ginger Shortbread or Gingerjack, because if a product isn't actually made in the place it's named after it's name becomes misleading!!
Hmmm - I wonder how many of Aunt Bessies Yorkshire puds are actually made in that fair county?
The girls have had breakfast and are currently knocking seven bells out of each other as they play fight around their room. Hopefully, we'll have a less stressful day than yesterday, rabbits and balloons permitting.
Actually, I can't go anywhere this morning as I'm expecting a couple of deliveries and Sod's Law dictates that they will arrive while I'm out of the house - so girls were stuck in for a while.
I'm making peaches and cream cupcakes today. Not the Hummingbird ones, I'm going to try and make up my own recipe. I just need to remember to write everything down as I go, because if they;re a success I shall need to remember what I did for the next time.
It occurred to me last night, that should the Grasmere Gingerbread be saleable, I wouldn't actually be able to label it as such. It would have to be something like Oaty Ginger Shortbread or Gingerjack, because if a product isn't actually made in the place it's named after it's name becomes misleading!!
Hmmm - I wonder how many of Aunt Bessies Yorkshire puds are actually made in that fair county?
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