... and started another - book that is!
The pups are being very obliging and just letting me read contentedly while they snooze in the shade.
First impressions of Dan Smith's book - full of atmosphere from the first page, pretty easy to read, so ideal for sitting in the sun (don't want anything TOO taxing!), and already, even after just a few pages, full of intrigue. All good stuff so far then.
So, excuse me while I go back to my book!
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!
Wednesday, 30 June 2010
GOOD MORNING!
Another nice morning - not too hot, but fairly bright - the sort of day the pups really enjoy.
Just listening to Sky Sports. Apparently, not only were our players tired - they were also HOMESICK! Ah well, that explains it all then. No wonder they were in a hurry to get back! Poor things,and there we thought they just couldn't be bothered when all the time they were missing home!
The pups have just had breakfast, which once again they've attacked with gusto. I've taken them off the dried food that they seemed to be getting a bit tired of, and at the moment, they are having those little trays - you know the ones with the Westie on the front - and are loving it. Fortunately, they're on special offer at Morrisons, so I'll stock up while they're so reasonable. It appears that the girls like a bit of variety in their diet, so I shall mix it up a bit in future.
Not sure what we're going to do today. I'm very keen to finish my latest novel a) because I'm really enjoying it and b) because I've got about six new books to choose from next, including a debut novel written by the son of one of Charles's governors. Look out for Dan Smiths 'Dry Season' - I've no idea what it'll be like, so will give you my critique when I've finished it.
Just listening to Sky Sports. Apparently, not only were our players tired - they were also HOMESICK! Ah well, that explains it all then. No wonder they were in a hurry to get back! Poor things,and there we thought they just couldn't be bothered when all the time they were missing home!
The pups have just had breakfast, which once again they've attacked with gusto. I've taken them off the dried food that they seemed to be getting a bit tired of, and at the moment, they are having those little trays - you know the ones with the Westie on the front - and are loving it. Fortunately, they're on special offer at Morrisons, so I'll stock up while they're so reasonable. It appears that the girls like a bit of variety in their diet, so I shall mix it up a bit in future.
Not sure what we're going to do today. I'm very keen to finish my latest novel a) because I'm really enjoying it and b) because I've got about six new books to choose from next, including a debut novel written by the son of one of Charles's governors. Look out for Dan Smiths 'Dry Season' - I've no idea what it'll be like, so will give you my critique when I've finished it.
Tuesday, 29 June 2010
ROSE IS...
... perfecting her party trick at the moment!
It goes like this...
'Look Mum, I can jump around on my hind legs, holding a chew in my mouth and SINGING all at the same time. Aren't I a clever girl!'
It goes like this...
'Look Mum, I can jump around on my hind legs, holding a chew in my mouth and SINGING all at the same time. Aren't I a clever girl!'
ENGLAND TEAM RETURNS TO...
... a frosty reception!
(So that's why I passes a snow plough on my way to Morpeth - honestly!!)
I agree with your comment totally Dannymatt. (I'm having to make it a post because this flaming laptop won't publish my replies for some reason!) They should be paraded through the streets to cries of, 'Put them in the stocks" where they should be pelted with rotten eggs and tomatoes.
(So that's why I passes a snow plough on my way to Morpeth - honestly!!)
I agree with your comment totally Dannymatt. (I'm having to make it a post because this flaming laptop won't publish my replies for some reason!) They should be paraded through the streets to cries of, 'Put them in the stocks" where they should be pelted with rotten eggs and tomatoes.
VERY TEDIOUS!
Now that our esteemed team is no longer in the WC (perhaps they SHOULD be down a WC!) I've turned back to the Newcastle blogs and News Now - but there is absolutely nothing going on. No news, no rumours, just some half-hearted speculation. Even Ed Harrison has resorted to rearranging the photos of 'iconic' NUFC players at the top of his home page as he tries to cope with the lack of anything newsworthy.
How much longer till the season starts?
How much longer till the season starts?
JUST GOES TO SHOW...
... how much the pups, and Lily in particular, are affected by the hot weather.
For the past few days, they have shown little interest in breakfast, or any edible treats, until teatime when presumably they have cooled down a bit and realised that they are in danger of starving!
But this morning, being a lot cooler and fresher, they are attacking their breakfast bowls as if it's their last meal! Whoosh - and there it was, gone!
For the past few days, they have shown little interest in breakfast, or any edible treats, until teatime when presumably they have cooled down a bit and realised that they are in danger of starving!
But this morning, being a lot cooler and fresher, they are attacking their breakfast bowls as if it's their last meal! Whoosh - and there it was, gone!
AM I BEING TOUCHY...
... or what?
Charles has gone off to school, bearing two plate of goodies for the staff.
One is a plate of chocolate fridge cake bars and the other, rocky road bars.
Both of these were made at the weekend, using the Hummingbird Cafe recipes. I think I did mention how incredibly indulgent they are and I know I commented on the vast amount of chocolate that goes into the rocky road. That aside, I followed the recipes faithfully, or as faithfully as i could without my scales.
The ingredients for the fridge bars are: butter, syrup, cocoa, biscuit pieces and raisins. The rocky road contains chocolate, mars bars,marshmallows, maltesers, apricots, raisins and cornflakes.
All very fattening, but extremely yummy.
Except that Charles, in his wisdom, just before taking the two plates this morning, said that perhaps it would have been a better idea to put some of the rocky road ingredients into the fridge bars!
Why? What's wrong with them? I was only following the recipes. Don't you like them? And if you don't, why are you eating them and sharing them with your staff? Should I not bother making them again? Could you do better? Should I never make anything else again? Don't you think those very clever people at the Hummingbird Cafe might just know what they're doing?
So, in short - why did I bother? Make them yourself in future.
Charles has gone off to school, bearing two plate of goodies for the staff.
One is a plate of chocolate fridge cake bars and the other, rocky road bars.
Both of these were made at the weekend, using the Hummingbird Cafe recipes. I think I did mention how incredibly indulgent they are and I know I commented on the vast amount of chocolate that goes into the rocky road. That aside, I followed the recipes faithfully, or as faithfully as i could without my scales.
The ingredients for the fridge bars are: butter, syrup, cocoa, biscuit pieces and raisins. The rocky road contains chocolate, mars bars,marshmallows, maltesers, apricots, raisins and cornflakes.
All very fattening, but extremely yummy.
Except that Charles, in his wisdom, just before taking the two plates this morning, said that perhaps it would have been a better idea to put some of the rocky road ingredients into the fridge bars!
Why? What's wrong with them? I was only following the recipes. Don't you like them? And if you don't, why are you eating them and sharing them with your staff? Should I not bother making them again? Could you do better? Should I never make anything else again? Don't you think those very clever people at the Hummingbird Cafe might just know what they're doing?
So, in short - why did I bother? Make them yourself in future.
Monday, 28 June 2010
TOO HOT AND HUMID
Not pleasant today at all. Much too humid and muggy. Could do with some rain to freshen thing up a bit.
The pups are quite grumpy and a bit intolerant of each other today. Lily usually takes herself off on her own and copes with it that way, but even Rose is out of sorts today and doesn't have a strategy for dealing with it yet! We've noticed that she is preferring to lie on her tummy with her legs stretched out behind her on the floor tiles, as if she's getting as much skin as possible as cool as she can. She looks like a little rug!
The pups are quite grumpy and a bit intolerant of each other today. Lily usually takes herself off on her own and copes with it that way, but even Rose is out of sorts today and doesn't have a strategy for dealing with it yet! We've noticed that she is preferring to lie on her tummy with her legs stretched out behind her on the floor tiles, as if she's getting as much skin as possible as cool as she can. She looks like a little rug!
HOT DOGS
They are so lethargic in this warm weather. All they want to do is find the shadiest spot to lie in. Can't blame them really.
All the talk on the news this morning is about the England team's underperformance and the goal that should have been. I'm tired of it now. (I wonder how many peple will have ripped down their St George's flag already!!)
No real plans for this week, apart from a reference I need to write for an ex-member of staff. It was intersting to listen to the talk at the weekend between Charles, Helen and Bill, all of whom are still locked into the school system, but looking forward to making their escape!! What happens to teachers that they end up beoming so disillusioned? I know that's what happened to me, and I put it down to the stress of having to endure nine (yes, NINE!) Ofsted inspections and having to deal with all the other additional rubbish that is loaded onto schools. Once I realised that I didn't want to do it any more, I couldn't wait to get out and was fortunately in a position to be able to do so. Just hang in there, you three - your time will come!
All the talk on the news this morning is about the England team's underperformance and the goal that should have been. I'm tired of it now. (I wonder how many peple will have ripped down their St George's flag already!!)
No real plans for this week, apart from a reference I need to write for an ex-member of staff. It was intersting to listen to the talk at the weekend between Charles, Helen and Bill, all of whom are still locked into the school system, but looking forward to making their escape!! What happens to teachers that they end up beoming so disillusioned? I know that's what happened to me, and I put it down to the stress of having to endure nine (yes, NINE!) Ofsted inspections and having to deal with all the other additional rubbish that is loaded onto schools. Once I realised that I didn't want to do it any more, I couldn't wait to get out and was fortunately in a position to be able to do so. Just hang in there, you three - your time will come!
Sunday, 27 June 2010
FOOTBALL ASIDE...
... we had a really lovely weekend.
Very lazy morning reading the papers outside, then barbeque lunch with Jim, Claire, Rachel and James (Warpath Redpath)
Of course we did all gather round the telly in excited anticipation, my sister and I fuelled by our new discovery - Swedish fruit flavoured lager!
Fortunately,we still managed to have a good laugh, regardless of the result.
The pups enjoyed all the attention! Helen thinks that Rose puts people under a spell that makes them do exactly what she want them to do, and when I think about it, every time someone new arrived, Rose managed to get herself into their arms within seconds, but no one is ever really sure about how it happens!!
Helen and Bill left this evening, but will be returning pretty much as soon as school is over and hopefully spending a fortnight with us as (after our extended New York break) we've decided to holiday from home this summer. We've already started thinking about what we would all like to do, and strangely, nearly every suggestion has something to do with FOOD! Weird that!
Very lazy morning reading the papers outside, then barbeque lunch with Jim, Claire, Rachel and James (Warpath Redpath)
Of course we did all gather round the telly in excited anticipation, my sister and I fuelled by our new discovery - Swedish fruit flavoured lager!
Fortunately,we still managed to have a good laugh, regardless of the result.
The pups enjoyed all the attention! Helen thinks that Rose puts people under a spell that makes them do exactly what she want them to do, and when I think about it, every time someone new arrived, Rose managed to get herself into their arms within seconds, but no one is ever really sure about how it happens!!
Helen and Bill left this evening, but will be returning pretty much as soon as school is over and hopefully spending a fortnight with us as (after our extended New York break) we've decided to holiday from home this summer. We've already started thinking about what we would all like to do, and strangely, nearly every suggestion has something to do with FOOD! Weird that!
AH WELL...
... that's that then.
Another spineless performance by our national team.
Not much to add really, other than everyone who watched it here felt totally let down.
Another spineless performance by our national team.
Not much to add really, other than everyone who watched it here felt totally let down.
Saturday, 26 June 2010
LOVELY DAY!
Ended up walking along to our local hostelry at lunchtime and having a few bevvies and a sandwich, then came home and everyone fell asleep at some point during the afternoon.
Charles and Bill took the pups to the dog park where they spent half an hour chasing around like mad things (the dogs, not Charles and Bill - that would have been a wonder to behold!), with the result that they came home absolutely shattered and barely able to move!
We've just lazed around, watching the footie and chatting for most of the day - very chilled.
Sounds as if the boys' day out at the races has been a great success, although I think James decided to give the betting a miss after the horse he backed turned up LAST!
Charles and Bill took the pups to the dog park where they spent half an hour chasing around like mad things (the dogs, not Charles and Bill - that would have been a wonder to behold!), with the result that they came home absolutely shattered and barely able to move!
We've just lazed around, watching the footie and chatting for most of the day - very chilled.
Sounds as if the boys' day out at the races has been a great success, although I think James decided to give the betting a miss after the horse he backed turned up LAST!
LOOKING FORWARD TO...
...the weekend with Helen and Bill, but where's the sun gone? I knew it would disappear as soon as I wiped the supermarket out of BBQ food.
James is off to the races today. He, Tom and Duncan are off for Ed's stag do, starting at the racecourse and ending up - well who knows where! Ed is the first of the very tight knit group to get married. They've been best friends since school and have always been there for each other. The wedding must be four weeks away and James and Dunc are sharing the role of best man, while Tom is an usher. Having known them all since they were mischievous little boys, it seems like the start of a new settling down era.
The pups were up early today, through no fault of their own, but disturbed by Charles's early bathroom trip. Anyway, it's not a problem as I had plenty of stuff to get on with, including a bit more haphazard baking as I'm still managing without scales.
Hopefully Helen and Bill will get here fairly early, so we can make the most of the day - even though that'll probably amount to sitting around drinking tea and coffee and having a good old moan about school (not me!) and pensions (still not me - I'm alright!!)
James is off to the races today. He, Tom and Duncan are off for Ed's stag do, starting at the racecourse and ending up - well who knows where! Ed is the first of the very tight knit group to get married. They've been best friends since school and have always been there for each other. The wedding must be four weeks away and James and Dunc are sharing the role of best man, while Tom is an usher. Having known them all since they were mischievous little boys, it seems like the start of a new settling down era.
The pups were up early today, through no fault of their own, but disturbed by Charles's early bathroom trip. Anyway, it's not a problem as I had plenty of stuff to get on with, including a bit more haphazard baking as I'm still managing without scales.
Hopefully Helen and Bill will get here fairly early, so we can make the most of the day - even though that'll probably amount to sitting around drinking tea and coffee and having a good old moan about school (not me!) and pensions (still not me - I'm alright!!)
Friday, 25 June 2010
OBVIOUSLY...
... I've had a busy day so far, hence no real contribution to the blog (Not that there's anyone out there. I'm probably just talking to myself. Hey ho!)
James came up for bacon butties for breakfast, then we went to Morpeth and did some belated birthday shopping for my niece Rachel, as well as food shopping for the weekend (got lots of BBQ stuff, so it'll no doubt rain shortly).
Spent the afternoon making goodies, including The Hummingbird Cafe's Rocky Road which requires - wait for it - 1.4 kilos of chocolate, 8 mars bars, a big pack of Maltesers and marshmallows and a variety of other stuff, just to make a swiss roll size slab. Who has that much chocolate in the house? I only just made it - and even then part of it was made up from melting two sad, leftover Lindt Easter bunnies that weighed the grand total of 200 gms between them. Also, just to make things really complicated, my ultra sophisticated scales chose this very afternoon to run out of battery, so I've just had to rely on guesswork. God only knows how things will have turned out!
James came up for bacon butties for breakfast, then we went to Morpeth and did some belated birthday shopping for my niece Rachel, as well as food shopping for the weekend (got lots of BBQ stuff, so it'll no doubt rain shortly).
Spent the afternoon making goodies, including The Hummingbird Cafe's Rocky Road which requires - wait for it - 1.4 kilos of chocolate, 8 mars bars, a big pack of Maltesers and marshmallows and a variety of other stuff, just to make a swiss roll size slab. Who has that much chocolate in the house? I only just made it - and even then part of it was made up from melting two sad, leftover Lindt Easter bunnies that weighed the grand total of 200 gms between them. Also, just to make things really complicated, my ultra sophisticated scales chose this very afternoon to run out of battery, so I've just had to rely on guesswork. God only knows how things will have turned out!
HELEN AND BILL...
... are coming up for the weekend.
Hopefully it'll help to break up the term for them a bit. We're not planning anything other than a chance for everyone to relax a bit, until it gets to Sunday afternoon and we have to sit through the England/Germany match, that is!
Hopefully it'll help to break up the term for them a bit. We're not planning anything other than a chance for everyone to relax a bit, until it gets to Sunday afternoon and we have to sit through the England/Germany match, that is!
Thursday, 24 June 2010
BACK FROM SHOPPING!
And we had a very nice time thank you. James is really good company - and enjoys taking a break for coffee and treats as much as I do, so we get on really well!
There seem to be summer sales everywhere, and we both bagged a couple of bargains so came home happy.
I was having a bit of a panic because I ended up leaving the pups for about four and a half hours which is the longest they've been on their own - but they were fine, fast asleep when I got in and very forgiving!
There seem to be summer sales everywhere, and we both bagged a couple of bargains so came home happy.
I was having a bit of a panic because I ended up leaving the pups for about four and a half hours which is the longest they've been on their own - but they were fine, fast asleep when I got in and very forgiving!
A LITTLE COOLER...
... this morning, but that's not a bad thing as I'm off to Newcastle with Jim.
Not that I need anything, but will still be nice to have a bit of a mooch!!
The girls were up early again, so should catch up on some zzzzs while I'm out.
I MIGHT buy another pair of fitflops. I've seen some that are quite clog shaped, but still have all the benefits of the originals. Actually, yesterday I wore my shape-ups for our walk down Villa Lane. I haven't worn them in a while and whereas we normally race up the hill (when it's not too hot) I found that the footwear was making me work much harder and could actually FEEL the muscles tightening and consequently our walk took a little longer than usual!
Right - I'm off to get ready. See you later!
Not that I need anything, but will still be nice to have a bit of a mooch!!
The girls were up early again, so should catch up on some zzzzs while I'm out.
I MIGHT buy another pair of fitflops. I've seen some that are quite clog shaped, but still have all the benefits of the originals. Actually, yesterday I wore my shape-ups for our walk down Villa Lane. I haven't worn them in a while and whereas we normally race up the hill (when it's not too hot) I found that the footwear was making me work much harder and could actually FEEL the muscles tightening and consequently our walk took a little longer than usual!
Right - I'm off to get ready. See you later!
Wednesday, 23 June 2010
GOING TO TOWN...
... with James tomorrow! We'll have a look round the shops and grab lunch somewhere.
It'll be a nice change and the girls will be fine on their own for a while; in fact, if the weather is still so warm, they'll just want to sleep anyway.
I see we have thunderstorms forecast for Thursday. That'll be a first for the pups. Wonder how they'll react? Actually a jet flew across earlier at far, far less than the 200 feet they're not supposed to fly below and, while I had to put my hands over my ears to protect the drums from shattering, it hardly bothered the girls at all.
They do seem a bit bewildered this afternoon because their dad's home so early and has taken himself off to the living room to have an early tea and presumably to watch the bits of the match that he missed. They're lying forlornly at the kitchen door willing him to come and pay some attention to them! (They could be waiting a while I'm afraid!)
It'll be a nice change and the girls will be fine on their own for a while; in fact, if the weather is still so warm, they'll just want to sleep anyway.
I see we have thunderstorms forecast for Thursday. That'll be a first for the pups. Wonder how they'll react? Actually a jet flew across earlier at far, far less than the 200 feet they're not supposed to fly below and, while I had to put my hands over my ears to protect the drums from shattering, it hardly bothered the girls at all.
They do seem a bit bewildered this afternoon because their dad's home so early and has taken himself off to the living room to have an early tea and presumably to watch the bits of the match that he missed. They're lying forlornly at the kitchen door willing him to come and pay some attention to them! (They could be waiting a while I'm afraid!)
BIG IMPROVEMENT!
Actually played some nice football at times! (I know this from the odd occasions when I peeped out from behind the settee)
Sounds like it's Germany next. Oh well....
Sounds like it's Germany next. Oh well....
I'M NOT WATCHING, BUT STILL...
... LISTENING!
Don't you just hate it when, with more than half of the game to go, the commentators are saying, 'As things stand England WILL be going through and all the upset of the past few days will be behind them.'
For goodness sake, let's get to the end of the game first.
Don't you just hate it when, with more than half of the game to go, the commentators are saying, 'As things stand England WILL be going through and all the upset of the past few days will be behind them.'
For goodness sake, let's get to the end of the game first.
ABSOLUTE PROOF...
... that I put a jinx on England when I watch them - the very minute, nay SECOND, I get up to make a peanut butter sandwich, therefore taking my eyes off the screen - they score!
So clearly I will not be watching any more of the game and will be eating a lot of peanut butter sandwiches!!
So clearly I will not be watching any more of the game and will be eating a lot of peanut butter sandwiches!!
MY MUM RANG THIS MORNING...
... and the first thing she wanted to talk about was the football! What IS going on? My mum HATES football!
She did say she was most impressed with (and here I was expecting her to name a player, but couldn't for the life of me figure which one of our mob might have impressed her in any way whatsoever)...
... Alan Shearer! And isn't he a nice young (! - it's all relative) man, and doesn't he talk a lot of sense!
Yes Mum, he does.
Wimbledon (which is Mum's absolute passion - she played tennis herself until well into her eighties) only reared it's head after the footie chat - quite surreal really.
Okay - it's 2.20, the pups are having a nap, I've got the telly on and am girding (another good word) myself for the showdown!
I reckon it's easier to watch England than NUFC - because, although the disappointment might be the same, at least the whole nation shares it and you don't have to suffer the taunts of other fans as much!
She did say she was most impressed with (and here I was expecting her to name a player, but couldn't for the life of me figure which one of our mob might have impressed her in any way whatsoever)...
... Alan Shearer! And isn't he a nice young (! - it's all relative) man, and doesn't he talk a lot of sense!
Yes Mum, he does.
Wimbledon (which is Mum's absolute passion - she played tennis herself until well into her eighties) only reared it's head after the footie chat - quite surreal really.
Okay - it's 2.20, the pups are having a nap, I've got the telly on and am girding (another good word) myself for the showdown!
I reckon it's easier to watch England than NUFC - because, although the disappointment might be the same, at least the whole nation shares it and you don't have to suffer the taunts of other fans as much!
HOWEVER...
... I'm not in the least bit listless today.
Up early, got loads of jobs done before it gets too hot and am about to persuade the girls that they would like a second walk. I won't be taking them anywhere in the real heat of the day, because I had to practically drag them along yesterday lunchtime, even though I'd cooled them down with wet flannels before we set out!!
Interestingly, they seem to be moving themselves towards having just one meal a day - well. Lily does! For a while she has been totally uninterested in breakfast, and I originally put this down to the heat, but she scoffs her tea without any problem at all. Rose would eat all day if I let her, but on the other hand she never asks for food, so I think we'll try going for one meal in the late afternoon/early evening and see how we get on with that.
(I can't get away with putting one bowl down and letting them pick at it during the day because Rose would have the lot before Lily felt the urge to eat!)
Up early, got loads of jobs done before it gets too hot and am about to persuade the girls that they would like a second walk. I won't be taking them anywhere in the real heat of the day, because I had to practically drag them along yesterday lunchtime, even though I'd cooled them down with wet flannels before we set out!!
Interestingly, they seem to be moving themselves towards having just one meal a day - well. Lily does! For a while she has been totally uninterested in breakfast, and I originally put this down to the heat, but she scoffs her tea without any problem at all. Rose would eat all day if I let her, but on the other hand she never asks for food, so I think we'll try going for one meal in the late afternoon/early evening and see how we get on with that.
(I can't get away with putting one bowl down and letting them pick at it during the day because Rose would have the lot before Lily felt the urge to eat!)
'LISTLESS'
The more I look at it, the more I wonder if it really IS a word.
I was going to say that last night I was really listless in that 'I don't know where I want to be and my legs aren't comfortable wherever I put them' sort of way. But then I thought about the word - listless. I understand it in the context of not being able to settle to anything comfortably BUT what is the opposite of 'listless'? The only thing I can think of is 'listing' ie 'the boat was listing in the strong wind' but I don't see how that fits. Just wondering, that's all.
I was going to say that last night I was really listless in that 'I don't know where I want to be and my legs aren't comfortable wherever I put them' sort of way. But then I thought about the word - listless. I understand it in the context of not being able to settle to anything comfortably BUT what is the opposite of 'listless'? The only thing I can think of is 'listing' ie 'the boat was listing in the strong wind' but I don't see how that fits. Just wondering, that's all.
SO...
... what's the prediction for today's 'do or die' match then?
Will the team be on the plane tomorrow, or will they somehow manage to hang on by the skin of their teeth?
Will anyone DARE to watch? Or will you do what I (the coward that I am) intend to do, and that is to record it, wait for the result and then decide whether or not to watch it! (It's on record anyway for Charles who will obviously not be home from work, although I bet he's home pretty early tonight for a change!)
Will the team be on the plane tomorrow, or will they somehow manage to hang on by the skin of their teeth?
Will anyone DARE to watch? Or will you do what I (the coward that I am) intend to do, and that is to record it, wait for the result and then decide whether or not to watch it! (It's on record anyway for Charles who will obviously not be home from work, although I bet he's home pretty early tonight for a change!)
Tuesday, 22 June 2010
NEAR CATASTROPHE!
At the time it WAS a catastrophe actually, as when I got back from shopping, I decided to take out my contacts and put my glasses back on, only to drop the right lens right into the washing up bowl,which of course was half full of water at the time. It meant I had to sieve the water a drop at a time until eventually I found the wretched thing.
Of course it had to be the lens from my good eye - well when I say 'good' I am using the term loosely - the eye that can be corrected with a lens, unlike the left eye which is pretty useless. Imagine the scene then - me peering through useless left eye, brandishing the sieve and the washing up bowl and just wishing I'd done the sensible thing and bought daily disposables and then it really wouldn't have mattered!
Of course it had to be the lens from my good eye - well when I say 'good' I am using the term loosely - the eye that can be corrected with a lens, unlike the left eye which is pretty useless. Imagine the scene then - me peering through useless left eye, brandishing the sieve and the washing up bowl and just wishing I'd done the sensible thing and bought daily disposables and then it really wouldn't have mattered!
EARLY START TODAY!
Something woke our little cherubs early today - so we've been up and about for a couple of hours now.
It's a glorious morning again. I love it when we can throw the patio doors and windows open at the start of the day letting in all the fresh air.
The pups are luxuriating in the warmth on the step at the moment, although they'll be moving inside once it gets too hot.
At some point today I need to go food shopping (boring) but will try to get it done sooner rather than later. And after that it'll be back to my book! I'm reading a fascinating novel which explores the lives of coloured maids in Mississippi during the sixties. Although I remember the segregation, I don't think I ever fully realised the extent of it and am finding some of the revelations really distressing. Neverthelss, 'The Help' (Kathryn Stockett) is a novel that is well worth reading.
It's a glorious morning again. I love it when we can throw the patio doors and windows open at the start of the day letting in all the fresh air.
The pups are luxuriating in the warmth on the step at the moment, although they'll be moving inside once it gets too hot.
At some point today I need to go food shopping (boring) but will try to get it done sooner rather than later. And after that it'll be back to my book! I'm reading a fascinating novel which explores the lives of coloured maids in Mississippi during the sixties. Although I remember the segregation, I don't think I ever fully realised the extent of it and am finding some of the revelations really distressing. Neverthelss, 'The Help' (Kathryn Stockett) is a novel that is well worth reading.
Monday, 21 June 2010
INDIAN TAKEAWAY TONIGHT!
Ordered and just waiting for Charles to pick up on his way home!
Love Morpeth Tandoori!
Am starving!
Hope he's not too long.
Love Morpeth Tandoori!
Am starving!
Hope he's not too long.
CHILE V SWITERLAND OR...
... WIMBLEDON?
What's a girl to do?
Although it looks like Federer's NOT having a good day as he's lost the first two sets to some guy I've never heard of. Got the third set back and its 2 games all fourth set.
Don't think I'll bother with Chile/Switzerland after all!
What's a girl to do?
Although it looks like Federer's NOT having a good day as he's lost the first two sets to some guy I've never heard of. Got the third set back and its 2 games all fourth set.
Don't think I'll bother with Chile/Switzerland after all!
WALL TO WALL SUNSHINE!
Good news for me - but not for the girls.
They are already showing signs of lethargy, so walks are going to be slow and short!
It is, of course, June 21st - the longest day (as I noticed when I woke up at 3.30am to brilliant daylight).
Charles is looking forward to a day of meetings with the Director (great fun!) and the Governors (even more fun!) - and won't be home till pretty late this evening.
I, on the other hand, have no such delights to look forward to (!) and will be spending my time outside as much as possible!!
They are already showing signs of lethargy, so walks are going to be slow and short!
It is, of course, June 21st - the longest day (as I noticed when I woke up at 3.30am to brilliant daylight).
Charles is looking forward to a day of meetings with the Director (great fun!) and the Governors (even more fun!) - and won't be home till pretty late this evening.
I, on the other hand, have no such delights to look forward to (!) and will be spending my time outside as much as possible!!
Sunday, 20 June 2010
JUST LOOKED OUT OF THE WINDOW...
... and saw a hot air balloon drifting slowly northwards. Christina was on the phone about half an hour ago and she'd seen it over Longhorsley. What a perfect evening for it - bit better than last night would have been anyway!
We're trying to watch the Brazil/Ivory Coast match - but the girls have other ideas tonight and are not wanting to settle for telly time. They're teasing and goading each other something rotten! Lily does this little howl when she's having a go at Rose and this acts as an early warning, whereas Rose makes no sound, just sneaks up and pounces, taking Lily by surprise! Maybe they've had enough football!
Talking of which - England may be having a traumatic time, but at least we're not France. it sounds is if their team is in total disarray (as opposed to the partial disarray that we're in).
(Would like to be a fly on the wall at the big meeting of the England team tonight!!)
We're trying to watch the Brazil/Ivory Coast match - but the girls have other ideas tonight and are not wanting to settle for telly time. They're teasing and goading each other something rotten! Lily does this little howl when she's having a go at Rose and this acts as an early warning, whereas Rose makes no sound, just sneaks up and pounces, taking Lily by surprise! Maybe they've had enough football!
Talking of which - England may be having a traumatic time, but at least we're not France. it sounds is if their team is in total disarray (as opposed to the partial disarray that we're in).
(Would like to be a fly on the wall at the big meeting of the England team tonight!!)
CAN RECOMMEND...
... the Cook and Barker. It's a while since we ate there, but we had a superb meal today. It may be a pub (and the prices even in the restaurant reflect that), but the quality of the food, the service and the presentation are all excellent. (The mushroom risotto starter was exceptional - and I consider myself something of an expert!) Needless to say we all left the place stuffed, but happy!
Since we got back, the pups have been in the bath and are now beautifully groomed. At the moment Charles is lying stretched out on the lounge floor trying to get them to come and play - but all they want to do is run up and down the length of the room over and over again. He keeps trying to catch them and they manage to evade him every time!
Since we got back, the pups have been in the bath and are now beautifully groomed. At the moment Charles is lying stretched out on the lounge floor trying to get them to come and play - but all they want to do is run up and down the length of the room over and over again. He keeps trying to catch them and they manage to evade him every time!
OKAY...
... so why's John Terry doing the press conference?
I thought Steven Gerrard was our captain - or have I missed something?
I thought Steven Gerrard was our captain - or have I missed something?
AND I'M PLEASED TO SAY...
... that the Sunday morning lie-in has actually happened!
Yep - the pups were still asleep when I got up this morning. This is a first for us and long may it continue!
They're only just having their breakfast and its getting on for ten o'clock.
Meanwhile, I'm trying very hard to do something with my hair as we're all going out for lunch today, being Father's Day you know. I didn't think I could get away with wearing my cap in the restaurant at the Cook and Barker, so am sitting here with my velcro rollers in, hoping I can get it to look reasonably respectable by lunchtime!
Charles is building himself up for a row with his car insurers as he's discovered, for the second year running, that he can get it more cheaply on-line than with their direct quote. He could save as much as £7 a year (!), so clearly it's going to be worth giving them a bit of aggro on the phone!
The girls are going to have baths later as they no longer fir the desription of West Highland WHITE Terriers and are actually more grey/brown/black than white. Fortunately, they love bath time and scrabble up the side to see who can be first in the water. They're not as keen on the drying and grooming, but they do tolerate it. I love it when they've just been washed, cos their coats are so soft and have a sort of sivery sheen to them.
So - it's hairdos all round then! (Apart from Charles cos he hasn't got any!!)
Yep - the pups were still asleep when I got up this morning. This is a first for us and long may it continue!
They're only just having their breakfast and its getting on for ten o'clock.
Meanwhile, I'm trying very hard to do something with my hair as we're all going out for lunch today, being Father's Day you know. I didn't think I could get away with wearing my cap in the restaurant at the Cook and Barker, so am sitting here with my velcro rollers in, hoping I can get it to look reasonably respectable by lunchtime!
Charles is building himself up for a row with his car insurers as he's discovered, for the second year running, that he can get it more cheaply on-line than with their direct quote. He could save as much as £7 a year (!), so clearly it's going to be worth giving them a bit of aggro on the phone!
The girls are going to have baths later as they no longer fir the desription of West Highland WHITE Terriers and are actually more grey/brown/black than white. Fortunately, they love bath time and scrabble up the side to see who can be first in the water. They're not as keen on the drying and grooming, but they do tolerate it. I love it when they've just been washed, cos their coats are so soft and have a sort of sivery sheen to them.
So - it's hairdos all round then! (Apart from Charles cos he hasn't got any!!)
Saturday, 19 June 2010
DOES ANYONE ELSE...
... speak English as fast as Emmanuel Adebayor?
I don't think my ears are equipped to listen that quickly!!
I don't think my ears are equipped to listen that quickly!!
IT'S VERY QUIET...
... in the house at the moment (apart from those blessed vuvuzelas in the background!) - the pups are asleep, Charles is busy doing some stuff for school and, although the Holland/Japan game is on the telly, no one's really watching it.
(Oh, there we go, Sod's Law - just as I decided to settle down with one of the three new books I treated myself to this morning, Rose decides she's had enough sleep for now, thank you very much, which means we'll be heading into the great Outdoors before too long!)
(Oh, there we go, Sod's Law - just as I decided to settle down with one of the three new books I treated myself to this morning, Rose decides she's had enough sleep for now, thank you very much, which means we'll be heading into the great Outdoors before too long!)
BUMPED INTO...
... the father of two children I used to teach at Swarland, many moons ago. (That doesn't sound right! I used to teach the children many moons ago. I bumped into their father when I was in Morpeth earlier today!) He asked if I remembered his son. Now this could have been embarrasing as I must have taught hundreds of kids (if not thousands) during my career and with the best will in the world can't possibly remember them all - but this particular one I DID remember, VIVIDLY! And that in itself was embarrasing because I almost said, 'Of course I remember the little monster, how could I ever forget such a spoilt little brat.' But, just in time I caught myself and actually said, 'Of course I remember him! What's he doing these days?' And then kind of missed what his dad was saying because I was transported back to the time when I taught the Reception class (all 36 of them with NO help - those were the days!) and this particular child could cause chaos in the cleassroom within minutes - no, SECONDS - of being dropped off in the morning. He would climb on the furniture like a little monkey, totally untamed and had clearly never been disciplined at home. Yes - I remember him well!
WHAT CAN YOU SAY?
Another hugely disappointing result last night. Where was their sense of urgency? And how dare Rooney criticise the fans after his (their) abject performance?
Can't say I'm looking forward to Wednesday's show down.
Anyway apart from the football, the weekend has started well. We had a BBQ last night - first of the summer - and have no plans for anything major for the next couple of days, other than going out for lunch with Christina and James tomorrow (for Father's Day), so Charles should have a chance to relax a bit! Only five weeks to go eh?
It's really cold this morning - back to the winter woollies and boots I think. It would be so nice if we could have a prolonged spell of good weather from time to time.
The pups had a bit of a lie in today, but they were late to bed so needed to catch up. They love it when Charles is at home and have already been sitting on his knee watching SSN with him.
I, on the other hand, have been catching up on my beloved son's laundry!
Can't say I'm looking forward to Wednesday's show down.
Anyway apart from the football, the weekend has started well. We had a BBQ last night - first of the summer - and have no plans for anything major for the next couple of days, other than going out for lunch with Christina and James tomorrow (for Father's Day), so Charles should have a chance to relax a bit! Only five weeks to go eh?
It's really cold this morning - back to the winter woollies and boots I think. It would be so nice if we could have a prolonged spell of good weather from time to time.
The pups had a bit of a lie in today, but they were late to bed so needed to catch up. They love it when Charles is at home and have already been sitting on his knee watching SSN with him.
I, on the other hand, have been catching up on my beloved son's laundry!
Friday, 18 June 2010
WHAT A DIFFERENCE...
... a day makes!
Because it's so much cooler AND very windy, the pups are pretty hyper this morning - Lily especially.
They've been more active in the past two hours than in both of the last to days when they were really lethargic. In fact I can hear them now, play fighting and beating each other up! They've had two good walks already to try and calm them down, but nothing seems to be working yet. Hopefully, they'll give in shortly and have a bit of a rest - and give me a break at the same time!
Because it's so much cooler AND very windy, the pups are pretty hyper this morning - Lily especially.
They've been more active in the past two hours than in both of the last to days when they were really lethargic. In fact I can hear them now, play fighting and beating each other up! They've had two good walks already to try and calm them down, but nothing seems to be working yet. Hopefully, they'll give in shortly and have a bit of a rest - and give me a break at the same time!
MUCH COOLER...
... today.
The pups will be happier and we'll be able to go for longer walks.
We had the first disturbed night in months last night, thanks to a neighbours barking dog which unsettled our two for a while. In the end we put them back to bed and left the television on in their room to try to muffle the noise from outside. Fortunately it worked.
Charles has gone off with a skip in his step this morning as it's Friday! I think he'll be glad to see the back of this week. Hopefully, the England team can kick us off to a good weekend this evening!
The pups will be happier and we'll be able to go for longer walks.
We had the first disturbed night in months last night, thanks to a neighbours barking dog which unsettled our two for a while. In the end we put them back to bed and left the television on in their room to try to muffle the noise from outside. Fortunately it worked.
Charles has gone off with a skip in his step this morning as it's Friday! I think he'll be glad to see the back of this week. Hopefully, the England team can kick us off to a good weekend this evening!
COME ON ENGLAND!
You've got to do it tonight!
Let's hope we don't see the sort of shambolic performance the French put up last night!
God - it's so stressful isn't it!
Never let it be said that football is ONLY a game!
Let's hope we don't see the sort of shambolic performance the French put up last night!
God - it's so stressful isn't it!
Never let it be said that football is ONLY a game!
Thursday, 17 June 2010
YUMMY!
Charles got home really early today- and walked in bearing two Exotic (mango, passion fruit, peach and pineapple) Soleros.
What a brilliant idea. They were really delicious...
... bet you wish you had one now!
What a brilliant idea. They were really delicious...
... bet you wish you had one now!
MAN UTD...
... away, again, first game.
First home game - Villa!! Bet they get an interesting reception after the way they taunted us about relegation.
First home game - Villa!! Bet they get an interesting reception after the way they taunted us about relegation.
GLORIOUS MORNING!
And a Good Morning to you all!
It makes you glad to get out of bed doesn't it!!
Charles is having a slightly more relaxed start to the day today as he's off on a course that doesn't start till 9.30. He's not had the best of weeks in school so far, so I hope today will prove worthwhile and something of a distraction from the stresses he's had this week.
The pups have just had their first walk of the day and are now lounging around on the step outside, enjoying the early morning sunshine.
Who's playing football today then? I've lost track of the games a bit. Mind you, Diego Forlan had a good game last night didn't he? Very impressive!
It makes you glad to get out of bed doesn't it!!
Charles is having a slightly more relaxed start to the day today as he's off on a course that doesn't start till 9.30. He's not had the best of weeks in school so far, so I hope today will prove worthwhile and something of a distraction from the stresses he's had this week.
The pups have just had their first walk of the day and are now lounging around on the step outside, enjoying the early morning sunshine.
Who's playing football today then? I've lost track of the games a bit. Mind you, Diego Forlan had a good game last night didn't he? Very impressive!
Wednesday, 16 June 2010
LET'S HOPE...
... now we are onto the second games in the groups, that we have some more exciting football, because it has certainly been in short supply up to now.
I'm very aware that I have let myself down on the blog today, but make no apologies for enjoying the good weather instead of sitting at the laptop. It's days like this that make me remember exactly why I decided to go for early retirement. No sitting in a stuffy car in queues of traffic for hours on end. No rushing about when I get home trying to fit in everything that needs to be done at home AND get school work done. Just all the time in the world to enjoy being outside without any of those awful guilty feeling I used to get when I dared to relax for a few minutes. It's bliss!
Right - let's see what South Africa and Uruguay get up to! (Got to admit to loving the South African anthem! I have done ever since the Lions of Zululand performed it at Heddon as part of their amazing display. I don't know if they're back in the UK, but if you ever get a chance to see them, don't miss out. It will be one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have. (Apart from seeing Take That 'The Circus' that is!!!)
I'm very aware that I have let myself down on the blog today, but make no apologies for enjoying the good weather instead of sitting at the laptop. It's days like this that make me remember exactly why I decided to go for early retirement. No sitting in a stuffy car in queues of traffic for hours on end. No rushing about when I get home trying to fit in everything that needs to be done at home AND get school work done. Just all the time in the world to enjoy being outside without any of those awful guilty feeling I used to get when I dared to relax for a few minutes. It's bliss!
Right - let's see what South Africa and Uruguay get up to! (Got to admit to loving the South African anthem! I have done ever since the Lions of Zululand performed it at Heddon as part of their amazing display. I don't know if they're back in the UK, but if you ever get a chance to see them, don't miss out. It will be one of the most memorable experiences you will ever have. (Apart from seeing Take That 'The Circus' that is!!!)
DON'T FEEL...
... so bad about our draw with USA now!
Spain 0 - Switzerland 1.
What a turn up, eh!
Right, nothing really to report today - just lots of time outside relaxing. The girls have tolerated a couple of gentle walks, but I went armed with water for them and I'm glad I did as they gratefully consumed it on the long climb back.
Haven't got a clue what to do for tea today. I'm too hot to want to be in the kitchen. (May be an opportunity to see if the BBQ has survived the winter!!)
Spain 0 - Switzerland 1.
What a turn up, eh!
Right, nothing really to report today - just lots of time outside relaxing. The girls have tolerated a couple of gentle walks, but I went armed with water for them and I'm glad I did as they gratefully consumed it on the long climb back.
Haven't got a clue what to do for tea today. I'm too hot to want to be in the kitchen. (May be an opportunity to see if the BBQ has survived the winter!!)
WHAT A DIFFERENCE...
... a nice day makes!
I've spent an idyllic morning doing a bit of gardening, drinking coffee and reading my current novel. (Noah Boyd: The Bricklayer - very good read if you like crime novels)
Lily and Rose are alternating between lying in the sun, which they manage for about five minutes, and lying on the cool tiles inside, which they do for much longer!
Going for a walk would not be a good idea at the moment, they'd get far too hot and bothered - and so would I probably.
I've spent an idyllic morning doing a bit of gardening, drinking coffee and reading my current novel. (Noah Boyd: The Bricklayer - very good read if you like crime novels)
Lily and Rose are alternating between lying in the sun, which they manage for about five minutes, and lying on the cool tiles inside, which they do for much longer!
Going for a walk would not be a good idea at the moment, they'd get far too hot and bothered - and so would I probably.
Tuesday, 15 June 2010
TYPICAL!
I pop out for a few minutes...
... and miss the delivery of my coffee capsules.
All I get is a note saying I've got to go and get them from the Sorting Office in Morpeth.
The really annoying thing is that I actually passed the Parcel Force van at the corner by David's shop and DID wonder at the time if he might have been to the house. I even SAW the delivery man leaving the shop armed with what looked like a bacon butty!!
However...
... all is not lost as, despite the note advising me to go and get it myself, the very nice man, now fully fortified after his late breakfast, returned this afternoon with my parcel!
So now I am well stocked with coffee for the next few weeks.
And no sooner had he left, than another delivery arrives!
So I now have a pair of sandals to replace the ones I ruined this morning.
And NO I WON'T be wearing them down Villa Lane!
... and miss the delivery of my coffee capsules.
All I get is a note saying I've got to go and get them from the Sorting Office in Morpeth.
The really annoying thing is that I actually passed the Parcel Force van at the corner by David's shop and DID wonder at the time if he might have been to the house. I even SAW the delivery man leaving the shop armed with what looked like a bacon butty!!
However...
... all is not lost as, despite the note advising me to go and get it myself, the very nice man, now fully fortified after his late breakfast, returned this afternoon with my parcel!
So now I am well stocked with coffee for the next few weeks.
And no sooner had he left, than another delivery arrives!
So I now have a pair of sandals to replace the ones I ruined this morning.
And NO I WON'T be wearing them down Villa Lane!
MUCH BETTER TODAY!
Warm, sunny, bit of a breeze to keep the pups cool. Very nice day.
Did a bit of gardening this morning - had to give the cordyline a trim as it was in dange of taking over half the garden. Don't think I've made a very good job, but the two ferms and the hostas that were obscured beneath it will be very grateful to have some sunlight at last.
We've just been down Villa lane and in the time it took us to walk down and back the men who are tarmacking the new road had managed to spread tar and grit all over the lane giving us no option other than to walk over it. The pups pads are okay, but my sandals are now covered in sticky tar. Great! (Good job I've ordered some new ones!)
Did a bit of gardening this morning - had to give the cordyline a trim as it was in dange of taking over half the garden. Don't think I've made a very good job, but the two ferms and the hostas that were obscured beneath it will be very grateful to have some sunlight at last.
We've just been down Villa lane and in the time it took us to walk down and back the men who are tarmacking the new road had managed to spread tar and grit all over the lane giving us no option other than to walk over it. The pups pads are okay, but my sandals are now covered in sticky tar. Great! (Good job I've ordered some new ones!)
DOES ANYONE ELSE THINK...
... that, with the exception of our friends the Germans, the standard of football has been pretty rubbish so far in this World Cup?
Even the Italians took about an hour to start showing any passion - and that's most unlike them!
Maybe all the teams are really nervous and afraid of making costly mistakes and this is affecting overall performance.
It would be good to see something a bit more inspired, but preferably not from Algeria on friday!
Even the Italians took about an hour to start showing any passion - and that's most unlike them!
Maybe all the teams are really nervous and afraid of making costly mistakes and this is affecting overall performance.
It would be good to see something a bit more inspired, but preferably not from Algeria on friday!
Monday, 14 June 2010
PERPLEXED
That's what I was this morning!
For some reason that I couldn't get to the bottom of, the cooker appeared to have completely packed in - no hob, no ovens and even the extractor had ceased to operate.
First off I checked the fuse box - but there was no problem there and everything else was working, so decided to check the cooker switch - BUT WHERE WAS IT? I searched everywhere and only afetr about half an hour thought to look in the cupboard where I keep the hoover (well the Dyson actually). Sure enough, there was the switch and it was turned off. I must have knocked it off when I put the hoover (Dyson) away this morning!
Problem solved!
For some reason that I couldn't get to the bottom of, the cooker appeared to have completely packed in - no hob, no ovens and even the extractor had ceased to operate.
First off I checked the fuse box - but there was no problem there and everything else was working, so decided to check the cooker switch - BUT WHERE WAS IT? I searched everywhere and only afetr about half an hour thought to look in the cupboard where I keep the hoover (well the Dyson actually). Sure enough, there was the switch and it was turned off. I must have knocked it off when I put the hoover (Dyson) away this morning!
Problem solved!
NOT FUNNY ANY MORE!
This weather that is!
I'm standing here wearing a tee-shirt, heavy jersey dress (admittedly short, but I've got thick, black tights on!), a cardigan and a jacket plus winter boots!
Brilliant attire for the middle of June! And I'm kind of wishing I hadn't ordered a couple of pairs of sandals from Amazon yesterday as I'll more than likely not be wearing them any time soon.
James has just rung to say he's on his way to work early as he had a call at 6.30 to say that two members of staff won't be in today, so it looks as if he'll be taking on their workload in addition to his own. At least the day will go quickly Jim!
I'm standing here wearing a tee-shirt, heavy jersey dress (admittedly short, but I've got thick, black tights on!), a cardigan and a jacket plus winter boots!
Brilliant attire for the middle of June! And I'm kind of wishing I hadn't ordered a couple of pairs of sandals from Amazon yesterday as I'll more than likely not be wearing them any time soon.
James has just rung to say he's on his way to work early as he had a call at 6.30 to say that two members of staff won't be in today, so it looks as if he'll be taking on their workload in addition to his own. At least the day will go quickly Jim!
Sunday, 13 June 2010
KIND OF...
... nothing day today.
But pretty relaxing nevertheless.
Watched the Ghana game this afternoon, and are currently on to the Aussie/Germany one.
The pups have had some pretty soggy walks today - and so have we obviously! It's been so grey and dull and we've had the lights on in the house pretty much all day - which makes you feel a bit cheated when you think that next week will be the longest day and the nights will be cutting in after that!!
(Oh - Germany are two up now and the match is only 25 minutes old.)
But pretty relaxing nevertheless.
Watched the Ghana game this afternoon, and are currently on to the Aussie/Germany one.
The pups have had some pretty soggy walks today - and so have we obviously! It's been so grey and dull and we've had the lights on in the house pretty much all day - which makes you feel a bit cheated when you think that next week will be the longest day and the nights will be cutting in after that!!
(Oh - Germany are two up now and the match is only 25 minutes old.)
NOW REGRETTING...
... the decision to stay at home and watch the other match from our group.
Not exactly riveting stuff, although if the score remains the same (0 - 0) at the end of the game it will suit us.
Starting to get pretty irritated by those vuvuzela things - sounds to me like a swarm of gigantic bees!
Can't really settle to anything right now and just feel as if it's a bit of a waste of a day. Still, having had a chat with my sister this morning, it's got to be better than writing endless end of year reports!
Not exactly riveting stuff, although if the score remains the same (0 - 0) at the end of the game it will suit us.
Starting to get pretty irritated by those vuvuzela things - sounds to me like a swarm of gigantic bees!
Can't really settle to anything right now and just feel as if it's a bit of a waste of a day. Still, having had a chat with my sister this morning, it's got to be better than writing endless end of year reports!
DON'T WANT TO SAY...
... anything much about England's performance last night, other than that it left me feeling really let down.
Where was the passion and commitment? How could Milner only touch the ball TWICE and get a yellow card AND pick up a knock? Where was Rooney? I hardly noticed him in the first half. And if Ledley King isn't fit - WHY IS HE THERE? And where was Joe Cole? As for Robert Green - who knows how THAT mistake will affect him?
COME ON ENGLAND - MAN UP FOR GOODNESS SAKE!
I'm guessing Capello will have some strong words with them before next Friday!!
Well, we've got another drizzly day here. The pups had a long lie in and have only just had breakfast at 10 o'clock! We've taken them for a walk into the village and bumped into little Matilda and her owners on the way home. She was a little overawed by my two big girls, but is still doing very well with her walking considering she's only on Day Two of being able to go out.
We're not sure what to do today. The weather isn't exactly conducive to being outdoors, and we have toyed with the idea of going into Newcastle, but don't seem able to work up much enthusiasm for that really. James is coming round this evening for a meal, but apart from that there is nothing planned.
Where was the passion and commitment? How could Milner only touch the ball TWICE and get a yellow card AND pick up a knock? Where was Rooney? I hardly noticed him in the first half. And if Ledley King isn't fit - WHY IS HE THERE? And where was Joe Cole? As for Robert Green - who knows how THAT mistake will affect him?
COME ON ENGLAND - MAN UP FOR GOODNESS SAKE!
I'm guessing Capello will have some strong words with them before next Friday!!
Well, we've got another drizzly day here. The pups had a long lie in and have only just had breakfast at 10 o'clock! We've taken them for a walk into the village and bumped into little Matilda and her owners on the way home. She was a little overawed by my two big girls, but is still doing very well with her walking considering she's only on Day Two of being able to go out.
We're not sure what to do today. The weather isn't exactly conducive to being outdoors, and we have toyed with the idea of going into Newcastle, but don't seem able to work up much enthusiasm for that really. James is coming round this evening for a meal, but apart from that there is nothing planned.
Saturday, 12 June 2010
MATILDA
I looked out of the window a few minutes ago to see a couple peering up our drive. They were there for a little while and then moved on, but as they went I noticed a little flash of white moving along behind them and instantly thought, 'WESTIE!'
Running after them I discovered that it was a neighbour of ourS, keith, out Walking with his daughter Kirsty and their baby Westie, Matilda.
They'd stopped to have a little look at our girls before taking their little scrap on her very first walk. She's so cute and tiny - you forget how small they are when they're puppies!!
How much fun are THEY going to have over the next few months!!
Running after them I discovered that it was a neighbour of ourS, keith, out Walking with his daughter Kirsty and their baby Westie, Matilda.
They'd stopped to have a little look at our girls before taking their little scrap on her very first walk. She's so cute and tiny - you forget how small they are when they're puppies!!
How much fun are THEY going to have over the next few months!!
TICKETS BOOKED!!!!
For Lord of the Dance.
Really excited!
(Now I've just got to be patient till November, Dannymatt!)
Really excited!
(Now I've just got to be patient till November, Dannymatt!)
MORE PHOTOS PLEASE DANNYMATT!
Saw the pics from your visit last week - they were lovely - but we need lots more! If you can sort some out Charles can put them into a slideshow on here.
Lily looks so cuddly in the photos, but we saw another side to her last night when she had a real go at Rose. They'd gone outside into the back garden and were very excited before they even got through the door. By the time they'd hared off towards the fence, Lily was so worked up, she went ballistic with her sister and we had to separate them before Rose got hurt. Obviously we need to get to grips with this as I don't want it escalating further. Having said that, after a quick cuddle, Rose was absolutely fine and went back to playing with Lily quite happily, but it was certainly more than their usual play fighting.
Lily looks so cuddly in the photos, but we saw another side to her last night when she had a real go at Rose. They'd gone outside into the back garden and were very excited before they even got through the door. By the time they'd hared off towards the fence, Lily was so worked up, she went ballistic with her sister and we had to separate them before Rose got hurt. Obviously we need to get to grips with this as I don't want it escalating further. Having said that, after a quick cuddle, Rose was absolutely fine and went back to playing with Lily quite happily, but it was certainly more than their usual play fighting.
TODAY'S THE DAY!!!
And I'm really looking forward to our match this evening.
I love Capello and his efforts to keep our boys grounded and just hope they deliver the goods now.
James is coming round this morning, having got back home at around 8.30 last night. He'll feel a lot more relaxed, knowing that he hasn't got to shoot off to Aberdeen again on Sunday.
Hopefully, we'll spend some time in the garden today - (working, not just lazing around - it's still too flaming cold for that anyway)
And the pups? Hmmmm! They decided to get us up really early this morning. Thank you for that Girls!
I love Capello and his efforts to keep our boys grounded and just hope they deliver the goods now.
James is coming round this morning, having got back home at around 8.30 last night. He'll feel a lot more relaxed, knowing that he hasn't got to shoot off to Aberdeen again on Sunday.
Hopefully, we'll spend some time in the garden today - (working, not just lazing around - it's still too flaming cold for that anyway)
And the pups? Hmmmm! They decided to get us up really early this morning. Thank you for that Girls!
Friday, 11 June 2010
OKAY...
...so why was EVERYONE doing their shopping in Morrisons this morning? Strangely, there were an awful lot of men, particularly in the beer aisle and at the cash desks clutching their cans and crisps!
And, more to the point, why was I the only person under the age of about eighty in Heighley Gate - when they should know that they can get massive discount if they go on a TUESDAY! You got the wrong day, you old biddies! And try putting your glasses on when your trying to count out all your coppers at the till - you'll be surprised to find you can pay in less than quarter of an hour.
And now I come to think of it, if you are not willing to drive at more than 40 MPH along the A697 - STAY AT HOME PLEASE, or give up your licence and let someone who had some consideration for other road users chauffeur you around.
Okay, rant over - I'm going to watch the opening ceremony! (Glad I got back in time!)
And, more to the point, why was I the only person under the age of about eighty in Heighley Gate - when they should know that they can get massive discount if they go on a TUESDAY! You got the wrong day, you old biddies! And try putting your glasses on when your trying to count out all your coppers at the till - you'll be surprised to find you can pay in less than quarter of an hour.
And now I come to think of it, if you are not willing to drive at more than 40 MPH along the A697 - STAY AT HOME PLEASE, or give up your licence and let someone who had some consideration for other road users chauffeur you around.
Okay, rant over - I'm going to watch the opening ceremony! (Glad I got back in time!)
TODAY'S THE DAY!!
I'm actually really excited about the World Cup. Not sure how far England will get in the contest, but will still be good to watch some quality games. Did anyone take my advice and go out and get 'One night in Turin'? If not, it's not too late and certainly worth watching.
(Sadly, the opening celebrations have been overshadowed by the news that Nelson Mandela's great grandaughter has died in a car crash following the concert last night. What a waste of a young life.)
Charles has got today's matches (and our match tomorrow) lined up for recording - clearly we're not going to miss a moment!!
James will be driving home this afternoon - perfect timing to be leaving Aberdeen, eh Jim! Hope he has a good journey and that he manages to get out of Aberdeen more quickly than the last time, when it took him a couple of hours to really get on his way.
I'm a little worried about Lily at the moment. She's fine in herself, has plenty of energy, but is a bit off her food. She has to be coerced into eating anything, which is very definitely not normal. I'll keep an eye on her over the weekend, but then I might take her to the vets to have her checked over if she doesn't get her appetite back.
I'm going into Morpeth this morning, but will be back in time for the Opening Ceremony!
(Sadly, the opening celebrations have been overshadowed by the news that Nelson Mandela's great grandaughter has died in a car crash following the concert last night. What a waste of a young life.)
Charles has got today's matches (and our match tomorrow) lined up for recording - clearly we're not going to miss a moment!!
James will be driving home this afternoon - perfect timing to be leaving Aberdeen, eh Jim! Hope he has a good journey and that he manages to get out of Aberdeen more quickly than the last time, when it took him a couple of hours to really get on his way.
I'm a little worried about Lily at the moment. She's fine in herself, has plenty of energy, but is a bit off her food. She has to be coerced into eating anything, which is very definitely not normal. I'll keep an eye on her over the weekend, but then I might take her to the vets to have her checked over if she doesn't get her appetite back.
I'm going into Morpeth this morning, but will be back in time for the Opening Ceremony!
Thursday, 10 June 2010
STRESSFUL WALK!
Right then...
... it began just as we entered Villa Lane and came face to face with a huge black (but fortunately dead) rat, causing lots of shuddering and pathetic mewling noises from me and great intrigue on the part of the pups who strained on their leads to get a better look while I dragged them past as fast as I could, only for...
... a huge bee to fly straight into my face, buzzing at my cheek, but fortunately deciding I wasn't worth stinging and as soon as that had flown off...
... an enormous articulated lorry decides to try and negotiate the extremely narrow lane, meaning that the pups and I had to dive into the nettles, buttercups and thistles, which stand about three feet high and completely obscured the girls for a while, until the moment the lorry squeezed past us at high speed and they decided to have a go at it so ran out of the undergrowth yapping and barking crazily. Fortunately they were on very short leads and I had hold of their collars too, but they were not going to let that lorry intimidate them one bit! After that we had to negotiate...
... all the broken bits of branches and twigs that the aforementioned lorry had broken off on it's manic journey up the lane.
Fortunately things settled down a bit after that and the rest of the walk was very pleasant. The pups are now sleeping off their exertions...
...and I'm going to do my nails!
... it began just as we entered Villa Lane and came face to face with a huge black (but fortunately dead) rat, causing lots of shuddering and pathetic mewling noises from me and great intrigue on the part of the pups who strained on their leads to get a better look while I dragged them past as fast as I could, only for...
... a huge bee to fly straight into my face, buzzing at my cheek, but fortunately deciding I wasn't worth stinging and as soon as that had flown off...
... an enormous articulated lorry decides to try and negotiate the extremely narrow lane, meaning that the pups and I had to dive into the nettles, buttercups and thistles, which stand about three feet high and completely obscured the girls for a while, until the moment the lorry squeezed past us at high speed and they decided to have a go at it so ran out of the undergrowth yapping and barking crazily. Fortunately they were on very short leads and I had hold of their collars too, but they were not going to let that lorry intimidate them one bit! After that we had to negotiate...
... all the broken bits of branches and twigs that the aforementioned lorry had broken off on it's manic journey up the lane.
Fortunately things settled down a bit after that and the rest of the walk was very pleasant. The pups are now sleeping off their exertions...
...and I'm going to do my nails!
LORD OF THE DANCE
Has anyone actually seen it live?
Michael Flatley is returning for a tour in the Autumn and I would LOVE to see it. It's on at the Arena in November, one night only and unfortunately it's a Wednesday which isn't great for anyone who has to go to work the next day.
I had the video years ago and absolutely loved it - liked it more than Riverdance actually - and think it would be phenomenal to see it live.
Charles doesn't seem too keen, so I might be looking for someone to go with me!!
Michael Flatley is returning for a tour in the Autumn and I would LOVE to see it. It's on at the Arena in November, one night only and unfortunately it's a Wednesday which isn't great for anyone who has to go to work the next day.
I had the video years ago and absolutely loved it - liked it more than Riverdance actually - and think it would be phenomenal to see it live.
Charles doesn't seem too keen, so I might be looking for someone to go with me!!
JAMES'S LAST NIGHT IN ABERDEEN
Tonight, that is.
He's going out for a meal and bowling with the staff from his section straight from work.
Then he drives back tomorrow night, no doubt listening to the start of the World Cup while on his way.
I think he'll be glad to get back to normal (whatever that might be) and to be able to unpack his stuff and stop living out of a suitcase. No doubt he'll be going back up there at some point in the future, but hopefully not till later in the year.
He's going out for a meal and bowling with the staff from his section straight from work.
Then he drives back tomorrow night, no doubt listening to the start of the World Cup while on his way.
I think he'll be glad to get back to normal (whatever that might be) and to be able to unpack his stuff and stop living out of a suitcase. No doubt he'll be going back up there at some point in the future, but hopefully not till later in the year.
OH RATS!
Not the best start to the day.
First off, the girls had us up at 5.45 for some reason. This is extremely unusual these days, so came as a bit of a shock.
Went outside to check out the weather - and it's even colder, greyer and windier than yesterday.
Then I honestly thought I'd put the remote control for the TV in the washer, because I couldn't find it anywhere and thought I'd scooped it up with the laundry only to discover that Charles had 'hidden' it away in some really obscure place where I would never have found it. For a while I seriously thought I might be in the early stages of dementia - but it looks as though Charles is instead!
Then - the really bad thing - the dinky little Gaggia thermometer that I use every time I make cappuccino so that the milk is frothed at exactly the right temperature, is knackered and the dial has gone into free fall.
And it's only 7.30!!
First off, the girls had us up at 5.45 for some reason. This is extremely unusual these days, so came as a bit of a shock.
Went outside to check out the weather - and it's even colder, greyer and windier than yesterday.
Then I honestly thought I'd put the remote control for the TV in the washer, because I couldn't find it anywhere and thought I'd scooped it up with the laundry only to discover that Charles had 'hidden' it away in some really obscure place where I would never have found it. For a while I seriously thought I might be in the early stages of dementia - but it looks as though Charles is instead!
Then - the really bad thing - the dinky little Gaggia thermometer that I use every time I make cappuccino so that the milk is frothed at exactly the right temperature, is knackered and the dial has gone into free fall.
And it's only 7.30!!
Wednesday, 9 June 2010
NOT MUCH TO REPORT...
... today, except that it's 7pm and there's no sign of Charles gettin home yet - and I'm starving!
I COULD have mine and get his when he gets in, but I have a thing about eating together, (plus it saves cooking twice) so will make myself wait, but he'd better hurry up otherwise I may well fade away from lack of sustenance.
The pups, of course, have no such worries about having to wait for their meals and are currently well fed after their evening meal and are lying by the french doors waiting the return of their beloved Dad!!
We've had a couple of lively walks today. I've noticed that the pups are very much affected by the wind (that's 'wind' as in weather just in case you're wondering) and behave a bit like children do on a windy day, getting very excited and boisterous. When I was at school, we could always see a difference in behaviour when it was windy - even more than snow, believe it or not! So we've done a bit of jogging to try to use up their excess energy. It seems to have paid off because they're very quiet and subdued now.
(Charles has just rung to say he's setting off. Good, I only have to wait another half an hour for food! I might survive then!)
I COULD have mine and get his when he gets in, but I have a thing about eating together, (plus it saves cooking twice) so will make myself wait, but he'd better hurry up otherwise I may well fade away from lack of sustenance.
The pups, of course, have no such worries about having to wait for their meals and are currently well fed after their evening meal and are lying by the french doors waiting the return of their beloved Dad!!
We've had a couple of lively walks today. I've noticed that the pups are very much affected by the wind (that's 'wind' as in weather just in case you're wondering) and behave a bit like children do on a windy day, getting very excited and boisterous. When I was at school, we could always see a difference in behaviour when it was windy - even more than snow, believe it or not! So we've done a bit of jogging to try to use up their excess energy. It seems to have paid off because they're very quiet and subdued now.
(Charles has just rung to say he's setting off. Good, I only have to wait another half an hour for food! I might survive then!)
CUCKOO SPIT!
What actually IS this stuff?
Where does it come from and why does it suddenly appear all over my plants?
Where does it come from and why does it suddenly appear all over my plants?
WEDNESDAY!
Middle of the working week already. Still miserable outside - but warm and bright inside thanks to NEDL!
Have just had a quick flick through the other sites that I visit regularly, mostly NUFC related sites - only to find there's absolutely nothing of any interest going on at all! Even Ed's blog seems to have lost it's way recently. Very disappointing.
By the way, did you realise it's been THREE YEARS since that nice man Mr Ashley, took up ownership of our beloved club? THREE YEARS! Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!!
Haven't got a clue what we're going to do today, apart from wrapping up warm for our walks. The pups are still in their quiet, 'we don't really want to be awake' phase and are having little naps before breakfast - their equivalent of hitting the snooze button I think!
Have just had a quick flick through the other sites that I visit regularly, mostly NUFC related sites - only to find there's absolutely nothing of any interest going on at all! Even Ed's blog seems to have lost it's way recently. Very disappointing.
By the way, did you realise it's been THREE YEARS since that nice man Mr Ashley, took up ownership of our beloved club? THREE YEARS! Doesn't time fly when you're having fun!!
Haven't got a clue what we're going to do today, apart from wrapping up warm for our walks. The pups are still in their quiet, 'we don't really want to be awake' phase and are having little naps before breakfast - their equivalent of hitting the snooze button I think!
Tuesday, 8 June 2010
SLEEPYHEADS!
Lily and Rose that is!
They usually go to bed at about 9pm, but couldn't keep their eyes open this evening and put themselves to bed at 8.00.
I think they're still adjusting to the early starts now that Charles is back at school and combined with four good long walks today, they were clearly shattered.
I can't get over how much easier they have become recently. When I think back a few months to the times when they would drive me berserk, there is simply no comparison. They seem really content and are so easy to please and just a joy to have around.
It still makes me laugh that I spend all day with them, feeding them, taking them for walks, playing with them and generally making their little lives as much fun as possible - and yet the minute Charles gets home I may as well cease to exist as all they want to do is snuggle up on his knee, looking up at him adoringly. Lily would quite happily stay there all night if she got the chance, whereas Rose would need to jump down occasionally just to check that she's not missing anything, but would expect to be readmitted to the knee at any given time!
They usually go to bed at about 9pm, but couldn't keep their eyes open this evening and put themselves to bed at 8.00.
I think they're still adjusting to the early starts now that Charles is back at school and combined with four good long walks today, they were clearly shattered.
I can't get over how much easier they have become recently. When I think back a few months to the times when they would drive me berserk, there is simply no comparison. They seem really content and are so easy to please and just a joy to have around.
It still makes me laugh that I spend all day with them, feeding them, taking them for walks, playing with them and generally making their little lives as much fun as possible - and yet the minute Charles gets home I may as well cease to exist as all they want to do is snuggle up on his knee, looking up at him adoringly. Lily would quite happily stay there all night if she got the chance, whereas Rose would need to jump down occasionally just to check that she's not missing anything, but would expect to be readmitted to the knee at any given time!
WE'VE GOT POWER AGAIN!
After a half-hearted attempt earlier this afternoon, we finally got full power restored at about 6pm - just as Charles got home with the takeaway that I asked him to get because we had no cooking facilitiesOf course as soon as it went on, so did every appliance in the house - cooker, dishwasher, tumble drier, KETTLE (twice!), computers and tellies. We'd have been a bit sick if we'd blown all the fuses!
AND IT GETS BETTER!
The electricity went off this morning (I was in Morpeth at the time and it took a while to register that the kettle wasn't actually doing anything when I got back in gasping for a coffee). It IS back on now, but at a greatly reduced voltage, so although I have finally made a cuppa, it has taken the kettle 20 minutes to get up steam and the cooker hotplates only manage to get lukewarm after half an hour!
Brilliant!
And when you try to ring NEDL there's just an automated voice informing you that there is a fault in your area!
I KNOW THIS, BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING ABOUT IT AND I'D LIKE A REAL LIVE HUMAN BEING TO TELL ME.
Brilliant!
And when you try to ring NEDL there's just an automated voice informing you that there is a fault in your area!
I KNOW THIS, BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING ABOUT IT AND I'D LIKE A REAL LIVE HUMAN BEING TO TELL ME.
OH GREAT!
Just done the ironing.
Did all the low heat stuff first, including a lovely little top with lacy bits all over it. Unfortunately, despite having ironed it many times before, today I managed to burn a hole the size of my fist straight through it! So it's now in the bin.
(Having said that, it's a little summer top, so I probably wouldn't have been needing it again anyway!)
The pups seem to be a little stir crazy today. They are clearly in need of a long, tiring walk, so we'd better take care of that right now.
Did all the low heat stuff first, including a lovely little top with lacy bits all over it. Unfortunately, despite having ironed it many times before, today I managed to burn a hole the size of my fist straight through it! So it's now in the bin.
(Having said that, it's a little summer top, so I probably wouldn't have been needing it again anyway!)
The pups seem to be a little stir crazy today. They are clearly in need of a long, tiring walk, so we'd better take care of that right now.
WHAT A TOTALLY MISERABLE DAY!
Was that IT then?
That brief glimpse of warm, sunny, balmy weather?
Is that all we're getting?
It's on days like this that I have a yearning for the Greek Islands or the South of France - or ANYWHERE that has guaranteed good weather.
I WANT to be outside in my shorts and tee-shirts, sipping iced drinks and topping up the tan.
I DON'T WANT to be still wearing my winter boots, and three layers just to keep the goosebumps at bay.
(Stamps foot in weather-related paddy!)
That brief glimpse of warm, sunny, balmy weather?
Is that all we're getting?
It's on days like this that I have a yearning for the Greek Islands or the South of France - or ANYWHERE that has guaranteed good weather.
I WANT to be outside in my shorts and tee-shirts, sipping iced drinks and topping up the tan.
I DON'T WANT to be still wearing my winter boots, and three layers just to keep the goosebumps at bay.
(Stamps foot in weather-related paddy!)
Monday, 7 June 2010
AS PART OF...
... his preparations for the World Cup, Charles has now got us watching the 1966 final!
(Wonder who wins?)
It's in black and white - and Charles has just informed me that we're the ones playing in the red shirts! Okay!!!
(Wonder who wins?)
It's in black and white - and Charles has just informed me that we're the ones playing in the red shirts! Okay!!!
CHARLES HAS TAKEN...
... the laptop to school!How dare he!! And it's where I usually do all my posts.
Never mind, the PC will have to do for now.
Busy morning running errands for my son and doing bits of 'stuff'. The girls have fitted in with the running about fine though and have just had a long walk for a treat.
Miserable weather again - and looks like being like this for most of the week. Hey ho!
I've kind of got used to having Charles around during the holiday and it feels a bit quiet and empty in the house today. Still, not long to go till the end of term, eh teachers!!
Never mind, the PC will have to do for now.
Busy morning running errands for my son and doing bits of 'stuff'. The girls have fitted in with the running about fine though and have just had a long walk for a treat.
Miserable weather again - and looks like being like this for most of the week. Hey ho!
I've kind of got used to having Charles around during the holiday and it feels a bit quiet and empty in the house today. Still, not long to go till the end of term, eh teachers!!
Sunday, 6 June 2010
ONE NIGHT IN TURIN
If you haven't seen it...
... go out and get it!
Charles and I watched it this evening. It was a fascinating documentary and just the right thing to be watching before the World Cup begins.
You forget about all the hooliganism in the 90s and the dreadful reputation our fans had abroad. I certainly hadn't realised the extent to which Bobby Robson was vilified by the press - probably because in those days football wasn't something that particularly interested me. And watching Gazza and his heartbreak at the end of the England/West Germany semi-final was well - heartbreaking.
But the thing that really got me is that it highlights just how fickle we are as a nation when it comes to giving our support to the country's team. When things go wrong, how quickly do we do them down and start braying for blood - and what further damage does it do to already fragile confidence? And yet one good game and they're the best thing since sliced bread.
Anyway - go out and buy this DVD and watch it before next Saturday - you won't regret it
... go out and get it!
Charles and I watched it this evening. It was a fascinating documentary and just the right thing to be watching before the World Cup begins.
You forget about all the hooliganism in the 90s and the dreadful reputation our fans had abroad. I certainly hadn't realised the extent to which Bobby Robson was vilified by the press - probably because in those days football wasn't something that particularly interested me. And watching Gazza and his heartbreak at the end of the England/West Germany semi-final was well - heartbreaking.
But the thing that really got me is that it highlights just how fickle we are as a nation when it comes to giving our support to the country's team. When things go wrong, how quickly do we do them down and start braying for blood - and what further damage does it do to already fragile confidence? And yet one good game and they're the best thing since sliced bread.
Anyway - go out and buy this DVD and watch it before next Saturday - you won't regret it
OKAY...
... what happened to the sun then?
I'd got quite used to it and was happily cultivating a pretty good tan - but clearly that's going to be put on hold today!
The pups are, however, delighted with the drop in temperature and seem much more comfortable.
We actually had a disturbed night fr the first time in months, mainly (nay, wholly) thanks to our not very considerate neighbours (yes that would be Craig the Mouse Man and his missus) returning home in the small hours and letting everyone know that they'd had a brilliant evening and would see their friends again soon. Thank YOU for that you two. The pups just had to see what was going on and after a quick growl of disapproval settled back to sleep, curiosity satisfied.
So, Sunday stretches out in front of us but I won't be stretching out in the garden unfortunately. James will be turning up at some point for lunch and then will be returning to Aberdeen for his final week (in THIS stint anyway) - I think his flight leaves at about 6pm.
It's hard to believe that we (well, Charles) are (is) into the last half term of the school year. This time last year, if I'm totally honest, I was literally crossing the days off on the calendar, so eager was I to start my early retirement. It still doesn't seem like a year ago though and how our lives have changed during that time! All thanks to the pups of course!
I'd got quite used to it and was happily cultivating a pretty good tan - but clearly that's going to be put on hold today!
The pups are, however, delighted with the drop in temperature and seem much more comfortable.
We actually had a disturbed night fr the first time in months, mainly (nay, wholly) thanks to our not very considerate neighbours (yes that would be Craig the Mouse Man and his missus) returning home in the small hours and letting everyone know that they'd had a brilliant evening and would see their friends again soon. Thank YOU for that you two. The pups just had to see what was going on and after a quick growl of disapproval settled back to sleep, curiosity satisfied.
So, Sunday stretches out in front of us but I won't be stretching out in the garden unfortunately. James will be turning up at some point for lunch and then will be returning to Aberdeen for his final week (in THIS stint anyway) - I think his flight leaves at about 6pm.
It's hard to believe that we (well, Charles) are (is) into the last half term of the school year. This time last year, if I'm totally honest, I was literally crossing the days off on the calendar, so eager was I to start my early retirement. It still doesn't seem like a year ago though and how our lives have changed during that time! All thanks to the pups of course!
Saturday, 5 June 2010
I COULD...
... just write the same post as yesterday - ie sunny day, garden, good book, hot dogs (as in the pups, not sausages!)
(That reminds me of the college cafeteria many aeons ago. They served hot dogs at lunchtime, but the sausages were so small that some wag had crossed out the 'hot dogs' bit and scrawled 'hot puppies' instead!!)
Only difference today is that I met James in SAKs very early this morning and we went for coffee and a bacon sandwich at Costa.
So, a blissfully relaxing day all round!
(However, the pups do not like hot weather at all.)
(That reminds me of the college cafeteria many aeons ago. They served hot dogs at lunchtime, but the sausages were so small that some wag had crossed out the 'hot dogs' bit and scrawled 'hot puppies' instead!!)
Only difference today is that I met James in SAKs very early this morning and we went for coffee and a bacon sandwich at Costa.
So, a blissfully relaxing day all round!
(However, the pups do not like hot weather at all.)
Friday, 4 June 2010
WONDER HOW MANY...
... will be on James's flight tonight? Any advance on SIX??
This time next week he should be done at Aberdeen. He says there's no way he's watching the World Cup in Scotland! At least, that's what he's telling us. I don't know what he's told the bosses up there!
(Talking of the World Cup - now that Rio's out I wonder who's going to be captain? I bet Fabio's wondering what on earth he's done to deserve all these problems.)
Today has been the perfect day. Very relaxing, just lying around in the garden reading a good book - and managing to finish it without interruption.
The pups have sought out shady corners most of the day, although we have just taken them to the dog park, armed with plenty of water and treats and they have had a runabout, but have also enjoyed a quieter time than usual, rolling around in the grass and just chilling!
We're all going to the airport to meet Jim later and I shall probably combine it with a trip to the supermarket to stock up for the weekend. I was going to say that I could get stuff for a BBQ - but that's usually the kiss of death for the good weather, so I won't mention it!
This time next week he should be done at Aberdeen. He says there's no way he's watching the World Cup in Scotland! At least, that's what he's telling us. I don't know what he's told the bosses up there!
(Talking of the World Cup - now that Rio's out I wonder who's going to be captain? I bet Fabio's wondering what on earth he's done to deserve all these problems.)
Today has been the perfect day. Very relaxing, just lying around in the garden reading a good book - and managing to finish it without interruption.
The pups have sought out shady corners most of the day, although we have just taken them to the dog park, armed with plenty of water and treats and they have had a runabout, but have also enjoyed a quieter time than usual, rolling around in the grass and just chilling!
We're all going to the airport to meet Jim later and I shall probably combine it with a trip to the supermarket to stock up for the weekend. I was going to say that I could get stuff for a BBQ - but that's usually the kiss of death for the good weather, so I won't mention it!
WAKEY, WAKEY GIRLS!!
What's going on?
8.30 - and still in bed?
Must be exhausted after yesterday's fun and frolics with your grown up friends!
Get up you lazy little things!!!
(Tell you what Dannymatt - you can bring your girls round any time if this is the result!!)
The only trouble is - I've got so conditioned to getting up at the crack of dawn, that I'm lying awake waiting for them to stir! Just like having babies in the house!
8.30 - and still in bed?
Must be exhausted after yesterday's fun and frolics with your grown up friends!
Get up you lazy little things!!!
(Tell you what Dannymatt - you can bring your girls round any time if this is the result!!)
The only trouble is - I've got so conditioned to getting up at the crack of dawn, that I'm lying awake waiting for them to stir! Just like having babies in the house!
Thursday, 3 June 2010
READY TO TURN IN NOW...
... feeling quite sleepy after such a relaxing day. It's funny how that works isn't it? I think the sun also makes you feel somewhat soporific (like the Flopsy Bunnies - or was it lettuce that made them so sleepy?)
Charles is already asleep and snoring like a good'un and I'm just watching the news before retiring for the night. I feel totally devastated for the people in Cumbria who were caught up in yesterday's horrific shootings. I wonder if anyone will ever make sense of what happened?
When I was working in Wiltshire I would sometimes drive from Marlborough where I lived, to Hungerford, which is just a few miles away and every time I always felt a sense of sadness surrounded the place even after so many years had passed since the shootings there. It will take a long, long time for those Cumbrian communities to get over this.
Charles is already asleep and snoring like a good'un and I'm just watching the news before retiring for the night. I feel totally devastated for the people in Cumbria who were caught up in yesterday's horrific shootings. I wonder if anyone will ever make sense of what happened?
When I was working in Wiltshire I would sometimes drive from Marlborough where I lived, to Hungerford, which is just a few miles away and every time I always felt a sense of sadness surrounded the place even after so many years had passed since the shootings there. It will take a long, long time for those Cumbrian communities to get over this.
SYNCHRONISED SNIFFING
That's what we had from the girls on our evening walk. Every few meters they would stop and sniff around the hedgerows in perfect harmony! I'm sure a speeded up video would be really amusing!
I've also learned NOT to use cocoa butter moisturiser on my legs when I'm wearing short leggings. Why? Because it drives the pups mad and they spend all their time licking it off again!
I've also learned NOT to use cocoa butter moisturiser on my legs when I'm wearing short leggings. Why? Because it drives the pups mad and they spend all their time licking it off again!
NOT GOOD ENOUGH!!
No posts on the blog today - just not on!
Now for the excuses!! Had to rush into Morpeth this morning, in desperate need of short leggings and couldn't wait another minute. Did a bit of shopping and raced home, hoping to get there before Chris (alias Dannymatt) and Cathy and their two Westie girls, but was pipped at the post and had to mutter copious apologies for being a bad hostess.
Once that was out of the way, we had a lovely relaxed morning sitting in the sun, eating cake and stuff, while the four Westies enjoyed a good romp in the garden. They get on so well together, even when Lily does her best to tease them and provoke a reaction!
When they'd left I enjoyed an afternoon reading in the garden - and the pups had a good sleep after all the morning's excitement!
Now for the excuses!! Had to rush into Morpeth this morning, in desperate need of short leggings and couldn't wait another minute. Did a bit of shopping and raced home, hoping to get there before Chris (alias Dannymatt) and Cathy and their two Westie girls, but was pipped at the post and had to mutter copious apologies for being a bad hostess.
Once that was out of the way, we had a lovely relaxed morning sitting in the sun, eating cake and stuff, while the four Westies enjoyed a good romp in the garden. They get on so well together, even when Lily does her best to tease them and provoke a reaction!
When they'd left I enjoyed an afternoon reading in the garden - and the pups had a good sleep after all the morning's excitement!
Wednesday, 2 June 2010
WHAT A GREAT DAY!
it's been really lovely today. Helen, Bill, Mum, Hannah and Jake arrived late this morning and, after coffee and cake (and birthday pressies for me!) we went up to Alnwick where we had a stroll around the gardens before lunch in the Tree House. I think everyone was blown away by the experience. The food was fab, the weather was perfect and the setting is, of course, really magical.
Later this afternoon we all took the pups for a run in the dog park, then returned home for more cake!
We sat around watching telly and chatting (as you do) until they finally had to leave for home at about 9.30.
The pups went to bed very late and were pretty exhausted after their busy day. We didn't take them with us when we went out, so they were on their own for about four hours - hich is probably the longest I have ever left them - but they were absolutely fine and just really happy to see us when we got home.
Looking forward to seeing dannymatt tomorrow. (Hope he likes cake!)
Later this afternoon we all took the pups for a run in the dog park, then returned home for more cake!
We sat around watching telly and chatting (as you do) until they finally had to leave for home at about 9.30.
The pups went to bed very late and were pretty exhausted after their busy day. We didn't take them with us when we went out, so they were on their own for about four hours - hich is probably the longest I have ever left them - but they were absolutely fine and just really happy to see us when we got home.
Looking forward to seeing dannymatt tomorrow. (Hope he likes cake!)
ACCORDING TO HANNAH'S FACEBOOK PAGE...
...the family are on their way!
And thankfully, the weather is pretty good, so lunch at the treehouse should be pretty special.
Still haven't decided what to do with the rest of the day - will see what people fancy when they get here. although I've a feeling that lazing around in the garden is a distinct possiblity!
The pups are having a little rest before the fun starts! Charles has just announced that if he was at home all the time he wouldn't get anything done, he'd just want to play with the pups!
Sounds as if we may see dannymatt and co tomorrow morning. That'll be lovely, especially if he brings his girls, then we could take all four of them to the dog park for a chase about!
And thankfully, the weather is pretty good, so lunch at the treehouse should be pretty special.
Still haven't decided what to do with the rest of the day - will see what people fancy when they get here. although I've a feeling that lazing around in the garden is a distinct possiblity!
The pups are having a little rest before the fun starts! Charles has just announced that if he was at home all the time he wouldn't get anything done, he'd just want to play with the pups!
Sounds as if we may see dannymatt and co tomorrow morning. That'll be lovely, especially if he brings his girls, then we could take all four of them to the dog park for a chase about!
Tuesday, 1 June 2010
NOT MUCH...
...happening at the moment!
Lots of cooking and the pups have been spruced up ready for tomorrows visitors - but apart from that...
...nothing!
Lots of cooking and the pups have been spruced up ready for tomorrows visitors - but apart from that...
...nothing!
LOOKING FORWARD TO...
... the family coming up tomorrow.
Hopefully the weather will improve, because I've booked lunch at the Tree House and it will be much nicer if it's a sunny day. Mum's coming with Helen, Bill, Hannah and Jake and I thought a visit to Alnwick gardens and possibly the beach at Alnmouth would provide something for everyone.
The pups will be in their element tomorrow. They love having visitors! They really are incredibly sociable little things.
At the moment I'm waiting for the Tesco delivery and, once that's here, I can start making some goodies. Charles has gone into Morpeth leaving me with the girls who are getting a little frustrated because the rain is impeding their usual outdoor fun. Having said that, I can't get over the difference in their behaviour recently. They are so much calmer and tend to occupy themselves quietly when there are no pup-orientated activities on the go. They spend happy hours watching me in the kitchen, or gazing out of the window. Not that this is all they do by any means. I think they have a pretty varied balance of active and passive activities and am just pleased that the quieter times are becoming just that - quiet and peaceful!
Hopefully the weather will improve, because I've booked lunch at the Tree House and it will be much nicer if it's a sunny day. Mum's coming with Helen, Bill, Hannah and Jake and I thought a visit to Alnwick gardens and possibly the beach at Alnmouth would provide something for everyone.
The pups will be in their element tomorrow. They love having visitors! They really are incredibly sociable little things.
At the moment I'm waiting for the Tesco delivery and, once that's here, I can start making some goodies. Charles has gone into Morpeth leaving me with the girls who are getting a little frustrated because the rain is impeding their usual outdoor fun. Having said that, I can't get over the difference in their behaviour recently. They are so much calmer and tend to occupy themselves quietly when there are no pup-orientated activities on the go. They spend happy hours watching me in the kitchen, or gazing out of the window. Not that this is all they do by any means. I think they have a pretty varied balance of active and passive activities and am just pleased that the quieter times are becoming just that - quiet and peaceful!
WHAT IS GOING ON?
We're having to wake the pups up these days!
This is very strange, but not unwelcome!!
This is very strange, but not unwelcome!!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
