... that I've been glued to the transfer wheelings and dealings on SSN all day, don't you?
Well, you are wrong!
As soon as it became evident that we'd closed for business - and Sunderland were getting their big signing in - I stopped watching and concentrated on preparing food for lunch tomorrow when dannymatt and the kids will be here.
The girls have watched the kitchen activities, presumably hoping for the odd scrap to be thrown their way! (They weren't in luck!) But at some point during the afternoon, Rose appears to have hurt her front right paw as she's been holding it up a bit. She forgets about it for a while and then remembers it again. Maybe she's just fed up with her mum being occupied with cooking and is after a bit of attention!
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!
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
Monday, 30 August 2010
HMMM...
... only one post today! Must be slacking!!
I'm not altogether sure why that's happened really, as I haven't exactly been rushed off my feet today. In fact I'd be hard pushed to tell you what I've actually been doing.
Into the last week of the holiday already (smug, self-atisfied grin) and Charles keeps banging on about how it will be his last school summer break! I'm guessing that after all the lousy weather during the holiday, we'll probably have a glorious Indian summer as school as term starts. And Charles will undoubtedly be hoping for that because he's due to take the kids from school to Ford Castle for their residential visit the week after term starts. In fact I think he's going for two weeks, with two different groups. (Last time you'll be doing that as well eh Charles!)
I'm not altogether sure why that's happened really, as I haven't exactly been rushed off my feet today. In fact I'd be hard pushed to tell you what I've actually been doing.
Into the last week of the holiday already (smug, self-atisfied grin) and Charles keeps banging on about how it will be his last school summer break! I'm guessing that after all the lousy weather during the holiday, we'll probably have a glorious Indian summer as school as term starts. And Charles will undoubtedly be hoping for that because he's due to take the kids from school to Ford Castle for their residential visit the week after term starts. In fact I think he's going for two weeks, with two different groups. (Last time you'll be doing that as well eh Charles!)
THE MORNING AFTER...
... the fun-packed day before, not only did the girls have the longest lie-in ever, and had to be woken up be ME, but they staggered back from their walk this morning, collapsing in a fluffy heap in their crate where they are contentedly snoring away and no doubt dreaming about their cousins and all the future fun they are likely to have together!!
My mum rang a while ago to tell me how gorgeous she thinks they are and how well everything went yesterday with the four dogs. I had to agree on both counts!
Charles is off out to the supermarket right now and I'm baking a cake for James who's coming round later and all is well with the world!!
My mum rang a while ago to tell me how gorgeous she thinks they are and how well everything went yesterday with the four dogs. I had to agree on both counts!
Charles is off out to the supermarket right now and I'm baking a cake for James who's coming round later and all is well with the world!!
Sunday, 29 August 2010
BACK FROM YORKSHIRE
And we've had a really lovely day.
We left here at about 8.30 this morning and, after a pretty slow journey spoiled by torrential rain and a 50 MPH speed limit on the A1 that went on for miles, we rocked up t helen's at about 11.00.
The girls slept all the way and were in great spirits when introduced to their two boy cousins, Tex and Digby. I have to say that the first ten minutes were a little chaotic as all four dogs intoduced each other and attempted to establish a pecking order, but once it was established that Lily was indeed Top Dog everything was fine!
They've played together inside and outside, my girls have eaten the boy's meal and tried out their beds, they've had quiet times when they've snuggled up to all the humans who were around and they lay quietly under the table while seven of us enjoyed dinner this evening.
Before today, I was a little worried about how things would go, especially as we were on the boy's territory, but it really couldn't have gone better. However, I am pretty sure that Tex and Digby will be absolutely shattered now!!
We had a much better journey home and were back in the house at 9.45. Had a quick tidy up and got the girls settled in their own bed.
A lovely day. Thank you Helen and Bill!!
We left here at about 8.30 this morning and, after a pretty slow journey spoiled by torrential rain and a 50 MPH speed limit on the A1 that went on for miles, we rocked up t helen's at about 11.00.
The girls slept all the way and were in great spirits when introduced to their two boy cousins, Tex and Digby. I have to say that the first ten minutes were a little chaotic as all four dogs intoduced each other and attempted to establish a pecking order, but once it was established that Lily was indeed Top Dog everything was fine!
They've played together inside and outside, my girls have eaten the boy's meal and tried out their beds, they've had quiet times when they've snuggled up to all the humans who were around and they lay quietly under the table while seven of us enjoyed dinner this evening.
Before today, I was a little worried about how things would go, especially as we were on the boy's territory, but it really couldn't have gone better. However, I am pretty sure that Tex and Digby will be absolutely shattered now!!
We had a much better journey home and were back in the house at 9.45. Had a quick tidy up and got the girls settled in their own bed.
A lovely day. Thank you Helen and Bill!!
Saturday, 28 August 2010
VERY NICE TEA, BUT...
... no sightings of new NUFC signings at Jesmond Dene House.
So that was a bit disappointing; as was he result against Wolves, even though I would have taken a draw before the game. It certainly sounds as though the lads played well, Barton had a torrid time and was singled out for the roughest treatment although the Wolves players were a dirty lot and gave most of our boys a hard time and the ref didn't do us any favours at all. So a bit frustrating really.
As for tea. If you are stuck for something to do one afternoon - go and try the afternoon tea at the JDHH, I can thoroughly recommend it.
Each of us had:
4 different types of sandwiches
3 scones - one cheese, two plain with jam (two types) and cream
a mini trifle
and four tiny little cakes
It was really yummy and even though everything was dainty and petite, surprisingly filling.
So that was a bit disappointing; as was he result against Wolves, even though I would have taken a draw before the game. It certainly sounds as though the lads played well, Barton had a torrid time and was singled out for the roughest treatment although the Wolves players were a dirty lot and gave most of our boys a hard time and the ref didn't do us any favours at all. So a bit frustrating really.
As for tea. If you are stuck for something to do one afternoon - go and try the afternoon tea at the JDHH, I can thoroughly recommend it.
Each of us had:
4 different types of sandwiches
3 scones - one cheese, two plain with jam (two types) and cream
a mini trifle
and four tiny little cakes
It was really yummy and even though everything was dainty and petite, surprisingly filling.
OR MAYBE NOT!!
Looks like the plan that was hatched last night has been changed and instead of a bracing walk along the beach at Alnmouth, with coffee and ice cream afterwards, Charles and his Mum are settled in front of the TV watching the first of the Lord of the Rings DVDs!!
TOON TOPS
The girls have got their Toon tops on already! Just waiting for 3 o'clock kick off now.
News last night SEEMS to indicate that Ben Arfa will be a Toon player next week and that he IS at the Jesmond Dene House, so maybe we'll bump into him this afternoon over the cucumber sandwiches!!
Very bright, but breezy, start to the day today. I think Alnmouth, Warkworth and the ice cream farm are on the cards for the morning. Mind you, as it's Bank Holiday weekend, all of those places may well be pretty busy.
Have just realised that if we're having tea at 4pm, we'll miss the second half of the match. (Hope someone can get updates on their phone!)
News last night SEEMS to indicate that Ben Arfa will be a Toon player next week and that he IS at the Jesmond Dene House, so maybe we'll bump into him this afternoon over the cucumber sandwiches!!
Very bright, but breezy, start to the day today. I think Alnmouth, Warkworth and the ice cream farm are on the cards for the morning. Mind you, as it's Bank Holiday weekend, all of those places may well be pretty busy.
Have just realised that if we're having tea at 4pm, we'll miss the second half of the match. (Hope someone can get updates on their phone!)
Friday, 27 August 2010
JUST AS WELL...
... we went to Alnwick gardens this morning, as we've had an absolutely torrential downpour this afternoon!! Haven't seen rain like it for a long time.
Still, as they say, it'll be good for the garden!
Talking of which, once the weekend's out of the way we MUST get into the garden again. I haven't been able to do much during the last couple of months and it really needs a good sorting out. We seem to have some strange creeper infiltrating one of the beds at the bottom of the garden and strangling everything in it's path. I haven't a clue what it is, or where it came from, but it's days are numbered.
Still, as they say, it'll be good for the garden!
Talking of which, once the weekend's out of the way we MUST get into the garden again. I haven't been able to do much during the last couple of months and it really needs a good sorting out. We seem to have some strange creeper infiltrating one of the beds at the bottom of the garden and strangling everything in it's path. I haven't a clue what it is, or where it came from, but it's days are numbered.
ALNWICK GARDENS TODAY
It's a nice day, so we're taking the Mother-in-Law to Alnwick Gardens. It'll be the first time she's been, so I hope she enjoys it.
As she can't walk far, Charles has just rung to book a wheelchair which will be waiting for our arrival at 10.30 - very efficiant!
(Secretly, I'm kind of reluctant to leave the house just in case something happens at NUFC and I don't get to hear about it! David craig has already intimated that the talks with Hatem Ben Arfa are ongoing - and as he's usually very tight-lipped, I've taken it to mean that HBA's probably already holed up at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel - which coincidently is where we're going for afternoon tea tomorrow!!
As she can't walk far, Charles has just rung to book a wheelchair which will be waiting for our arrival at 10.30 - very efficiant!
(Secretly, I'm kind of reluctant to leave the house just in case something happens at NUFC and I don't get to hear about it! David craig has already intimated that the talks with Hatem Ben Arfa are ongoing - and as he's usually very tight-lipped, I've taken it to mean that HBA's probably already holed up at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel - which coincidently is where we're going for afternoon tea tomorrow!!
Thursday, 26 August 2010
NOW WE'RE...
... being brought up to speed on the comings and goings in some programme entitled 'Monarch of the Glen'!!
CHARLES AND HIS MUM ARE...
... watching 'Mamma Mia' - it's funny how he never wanted to watch it when I suggested it, but there he is explaining the plot (What plot?!) and chuckling away happily!!
OCD!!
I fully admit to having many OCD tendancies...
... but this latest one of being totally addicted to Toon blogs is driving me crazy.
I know for a fact that the very second I finish typing this, I will be on nufcblog.com, followed by nufcblog.org, then News Now and Newcastle United Mad for good measure.
Why am I doing this?
... but this latest one of being totally addicted to Toon blogs is driving me crazy.
I know for a fact that the very second I finish typing this, I will be on nufcblog.com, followed by nufcblog.org, then News Now and Newcastle United Mad for good measure.
Why am I doing this?
CHARLES IS DRIVING...
... over to Preston this morning to pick his Mum up. She'll be here until Sunday, when we re all going to Helen's in Yorkshire. While we're there he will drop his Mum back home and then return to pick up the girls and me.
I'm doing the cooking for tonight's meal and the girls are enjoying the sunshine. Talking of which, it's hard to believe that this time last week I couldn't tolerate any sunlight at all. There has been such an improvement I'm pleased to say.
Got to take the chocolate cupcakes out of the oven now.
Back later...
I'm doing the cooking for tonight's meal and the girls are enjoying the sunshine. Talking of which, it's hard to believe that this time last week I couldn't tolerate any sunlight at all. There has been such an improvement I'm pleased to say.
Got to take the chocolate cupcakes out of the oven now.
Back later...
Wednesday, 25 August 2010
GOING TO THE HAIRDRESSERS THIS AFTERNOON
I haven't wanted to be bothered for the last couple of months, and there's been no point as I've had to wear my cap to cut down on the glare, but today I feel ready to venture out capless once again!!
So, it's colour, cut and style today, which means I'm in for quite a long session, but I have to say I'm really looking forward to a bit of pampering.
Been doing a bit of cooking this morning ready for the Mother-in-Law who arrives tomorrow. (Hopefully Charles will give the lawns a bit of a tidy up before she gets here!!) Had a bit of a brainwave actually.I HAVE been paying extortionate amounts for fruit flavoured icing sugar, but discovered that the juice that's leftover from a summer pudding gives PERFECT and totally natural flavouring and colouring to frosting for cupcakes. Simple eh!
So, it's colour, cut and style today, which means I'm in for quite a long session, but I have to say I'm really looking forward to a bit of pampering.
Been doing a bit of cooking this morning ready for the Mother-in-Law who arrives tomorrow. (Hopefully Charles will give the lawns a bit of a tidy up before she gets here!!) Had a bit of a brainwave actually.I HAVE been paying extortionate amounts for fruit flavoured icing sugar, but discovered that the juice that's leftover from a summer pudding gives PERFECT and totally natural flavouring and colouring to frosting for cupcakes. Simple eh!
BIT OF A NIP...
... in the air this morning. Quite autumnal in fact.
As a point of interest, I can tell you that it is really bright and sunny - AND I'VE BEEN OUTSIDE WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER.
YIPPEE!!
Mornings like this serve to remind me that usually we would be waking up on the 'Margaret Amelia' somewhere along the Thames during the last two weeks in August. There is something absolutely magical about waking up in the middle of nowhere to a misty morning on the river and watching the sun break through while munching bacon butties and drinking mugs of steaming coffee.
This is the first year we haven't been in ages - and I really miss it to be honest; we thought it might be a bit difficult with the dogs, but I'm sure we'll have them kitted out in life jackets next year!
All four of us (Helen, Bill, Charles and I) love life on the boat and have deemed ourselves 'River People'. We all have our roles on the boat and run a pretty tight ship to be honest. I've even got to the point where, if we happen to be in a lock, I can be cooking the breakfast in the galley AND manning the ropes at the same time!
Oh really wish I hadn't thought about it now!
(The very fact that I can be longing to be there, with the sun glinting off the water, must be the clearest indicator yet that my eye is almost back to normal. A few days ago it would have been my idea of torture.)
As a point of interest, I can tell you that it is really bright and sunny - AND I'VE BEEN OUTSIDE WITHOUT ANY PROBLEMS WHATSOEVER.
YIPPEE!!
Mornings like this serve to remind me that usually we would be waking up on the 'Margaret Amelia' somewhere along the Thames during the last two weeks in August. There is something absolutely magical about waking up in the middle of nowhere to a misty morning on the river and watching the sun break through while munching bacon butties and drinking mugs of steaming coffee.
This is the first year we haven't been in ages - and I really miss it to be honest; we thought it might be a bit difficult with the dogs, but I'm sure we'll have them kitted out in life jackets next year!
All four of us (Helen, Bill, Charles and I) love life on the boat and have deemed ourselves 'River People'. We all have our roles on the boat and run a pretty tight ship to be honest. I've even got to the point where, if we happen to be in a lock, I can be cooking the breakfast in the galley AND manning the ropes at the same time!
Oh really wish I hadn't thought about it now!
(The very fact that I can be longing to be there, with the sun glinting off the water, must be the clearest indicator yet that my eye is almost back to normal. A few days ago it would have been my idea of torture.)
Tuesday, 24 August 2010
STILL GETTING BETTER!!
And to prove the point, I've just taken the girls out for a walk, even though it's sunny and I managed without any difficulty.
So Jim - I'm sure I'll be perfectly capable of taking my seat at the next home game without having to worry about the painful sunlight!! Who have we got at home next? I have a feeling it's Blackpool. Let's hope we're a bit more convincing against them than we were last season.
I'm still taking pretty hefty doses of medication and will need to do so for a while yet, but at least it's finally making a difference.
So Jim - I'm sure I'll be perfectly capable of taking my seat at the next home game without having to worry about the painful sunlight!! Who have we got at home next? I have a feeling it's Blackpool. Let's hope we're a bit more convincing against them than we were last season.
I'm still taking pretty hefty doses of medication and will need to do so for a while yet, but at least it's finally making a difference.
CHARLES HAS...
... gone to school today. And he'll be there again tomorrow as well.
Admittedly he was somewhat reluctant to go as it is a clear indicator (not that he needs one) that the holiday is coming to an end.
He does, however, keep reminding me that this will be his very last summer holiday from school.In fact I imagine that everything he does from now on will be accompanied by a comment along the lines of, "Well, I won't be doing THAT again..."
The thing is, I have a feeling that he thinks life is going to be totally chilled and relaxed once he's finished work. Well, maybe it will be to an extent, but I have news Charles...
... it won't just be about lazing about all the time, in fact there may well be occasions when you wish you were still at work!!
Admittedly he was somewhat reluctant to go as it is a clear indicator (not that he needs one) that the holiday is coming to an end.
He does, however, keep reminding me that this will be his very last summer holiday from school.In fact I imagine that everything he does from now on will be accompanied by a comment along the lines of, "Well, I won't be doing THAT again..."
The thing is, I have a feeling that he thinks life is going to be totally chilled and relaxed once he's finished work. Well, maybe it will be to an extent, but I have news Charles...
... it won't just be about lazing about all the time, in fact there may well be occasions when you wish you were still at work!!
FOR THE FIRST TIME...
... in nearly two months, I've managed to go out in the sun this morning without having to close my left eye!
Hooray!!
"I've got to admit it's getting better,
A little better all the time!"
Hooray!!
"I've got to admit it's getting better,
A little better all the time!"
Monday, 23 August 2010
IT MAKES YOU THINK...
... what did we do before we all got laptops and PCs?
The three of us (yes, James is here for the night) are sitting watching the Man City/Liverpool match and each of us is busy typing away on our laptops! I suppose in years long gone, we would have had to sit and talk to each other.
The three of us (yes, James is here for the night) are sitting watching the Man City/Liverpool match and each of us is busy typing away on our laptops! I suppose in years long gone, we would have had to sit and talk to each other.
NOT MUCH HAPPENING TODAY
Pretty quiet and uneventful so far.
The girls are frustrated by the weather and having to stay inside and I can hear them yapping at each other in frustration right now.
As for me, I've resorted to scouring the NUFC blogs again, enjoying the positivity after yesterday and still hoping for some good news about transfers. I kind of wish it was the end of the month, so the window can slam shut and we know exactly what we're left with.
What I OUGHT to be doing, is planning for the imminent visit of the Mother-in-Law, who is due to arrive on Thursday for a short visit. Unfortunately, I can't get myself gee-ed up yet! (May need to go for a little lie down before I have to consider this further!)
The girls are frustrated by the weather and having to stay inside and I can hear them yapping at each other in frustration right now.
As for me, I've resorted to scouring the NUFC blogs again, enjoying the positivity after yesterday and still hoping for some good news about transfers. I kind of wish it was the end of the month, so the window can slam shut and we know exactly what we're left with.
What I OUGHT to be doing, is planning for the imminent visit of the Mother-in-Law, who is due to arrive on Thursday for a short visit. Unfortunately, I can't get myself gee-ed up yet! (May need to go for a little lie down before I have to consider this further!)
WOKE UP THIS MORNING...
... and thought it must have been a dream.
Nwcastle beating Villa by six goals to nothing?
But having watched MoTD again it would appear it really DID happen!
Another thought on waking, was that I actually have a bit more vision in my left eye. Whereas on Friday I couldn't even count the fingers the triage nurse was holding up in front of my face, now I can albeit still very fuzzily. This is great news and is clearly thanks to the drug cocktail I'm on. If I keep seeing the same improvement each day things will soon be back to normal! (Who knows, I may be driving again soon!!)
Nwcastle beating Villa by six goals to nothing?
But having watched MoTD again it would appear it really DID happen!
Another thought on waking, was that I actually have a bit more vision in my left eye. Whereas on Friday I couldn't even count the fingers the triage nurse was holding up in front of my face, now I can albeit still very fuzzily. This is great news and is clearly thanks to the drug cocktail I'm on. If I keep seeing the same improvement each day things will soon be back to normal! (Who knows, I may be driving again soon!!)
Sunday, 22 August 2010
6 - NIL AGAINST THE VILE!!!
OH YES - WHAT A RESULT!!
HOW I WISH I'D BEEN THERE.
ANDY CARROLL HAT TRICK AS WELL.
BRILLIANT JOB BOYS!!
REVENGE, AS THEY SAY, IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD!
HOW I WISH I'D BEEN THERE.
ANDY CARROLL HAT TRICK AS WELL.
BRILLIANT JOB BOYS!!
REVENGE, AS THEY SAY, IS A DISH BEST SERVED COLD!
CHARLES IS...
... on his way to the match...
... and I'm not!!
James is taking my place today, so Charles is going to meet up with him and Claire too before the match for a quick lunch, then Claire is either going shopping or going home to Gosforth while the boys go to SJP.
I would have loved to be there - but it's such a sunny day, I would never have managed it.
I have to say though, that when I woke up this morning, I DID think I could make out more than I could yesterday and the 'broken glass effect' appeared to be slightly less than it has been. Must be the steroids I would imagine.
So, I'm at home, in the kitchen (where I seem to belong!) I've made some tiny bite size burgers to serve in mini-brioche, reminiscent of those we had in Niles Bar in New York. Hope they taste as good!
I've just finished mixing a Hummingbird Lemon Drizzle Loaf. It's in the oven at the moment and smells wonderful. There's also a White Chocolate Cappuccino cake in progress.
As for the girls - they are lounging around in the sun, barking half-heartedly at any passers-by. I'm keeping a close eye on them because both of thm seem to be a bit snuffly this morning and I'm hoping we're not in for a repeat of the virus they had a few weeks ago.
Right, I'm off to make the lemon drizzly stuff for the cake.
... and I'm not!!
James is taking my place today, so Charles is going to meet up with him and Claire too before the match for a quick lunch, then Claire is either going shopping or going home to Gosforth while the boys go to SJP.
I would have loved to be there - but it's such a sunny day, I would never have managed it.
I have to say though, that when I woke up this morning, I DID think I could make out more than I could yesterday and the 'broken glass effect' appeared to be slightly less than it has been. Must be the steroids I would imagine.
So, I'm at home, in the kitchen (where I seem to belong!) I've made some tiny bite size burgers to serve in mini-brioche, reminiscent of those we had in Niles Bar in New York. Hope they taste as good!
I've just finished mixing a Hummingbird Lemon Drizzle Loaf. It's in the oven at the moment and smells wonderful. There's also a White Chocolate Cappuccino cake in progress.
As for the girls - they are lounging around in the sun, barking half-heartedly at any passers-by. I'm keeping a close eye on them because both of thm seem to be a bit snuffly this morning and I'm hoping we're not in for a repeat of the virus they had a few weeks ago.
Right, I'm off to make the lemon drizzly stuff for the cake.
Saturday, 21 August 2010
KNACKERED!!
That's how I feel right now.
Spent a couple of hours with James cleaning the flat in Morpeth - including the oven! - then we both relaxed a bit with a latte in Central Bean.
I was, however, rather underwhelmed when I got home to find that Charles had somehow managed to forget the ironing I'd asked him to do, so I got on with it myself and did a lot of banging around at the same time just to show my displeasure.
Spent a couple of hours with James cleaning the flat in Morpeth - including the oven! - then we both relaxed a bit with a latte in Central Bean.
I was, however, rather underwhelmed when I got home to find that Charles had somehow managed to forget the ironing I'd asked him to do, so I got on with it myself and did a lot of banging around at the same time just to show my displeasure.
MAYBE...
... we could go to the Jesmond Dene House Hotel for afternoon tea - and while we were there we could have a good sniff around for evidence of any potential new players who may be holed up there!
AND TODAY I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO...
... the joys of cleaning James's flat!!
The perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
I'll try to persuade him to take me out and treat me to coffee and cakes when we've finished I think.
Thankfully, the day is pretty cloudy and dull today, so easier on the eye. (No significant improvement overnight I'm afraid, despite the extra meds.) I think I may well be giving James my ticket for the match tomorrow - unless it rains, in which case I could probably cope with the light. I really, really want to go to the first game, especially as it's v Villa, so will make the call when I've checked out the forecast!
The perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon!
I'll try to persuade him to take me out and treat me to coffee and cakes when we've finished I think.
Thankfully, the day is pretty cloudy and dull today, so easier on the eye. (No significant improvement overnight I'm afraid, despite the extra meds.) I think I may well be giving James my ticket for the match tomorrow - unless it rains, in which case I could probably cope with the light. I really, really want to go to the first game, especially as it's v Villa, so will make the call when I've checked out the forecast!
WHY, WHY, WHY...
... am I STILL searching through all the Newcastle sites and blogs for snippets of rumours?
I know I mentioned this earlier in the week, but I appear to have become totally incapable of leaving them alone, despite the fact that a) probably absolutely nothing will happen at all and b) if anything does happen, it'll be all over SSN within minutes and I could save myself all the trouble of trawling for stuff and the angst when there's nothing there anyway.
Grrrrrrrrrr! Cross with self!
I know I mentioned this earlier in the week, but I appear to have become totally incapable of leaving them alone, despite the fact that a) probably absolutely nothing will happen at all and b) if anything does happen, it'll be all over SSN within minutes and I could save myself all the trouble of trawling for stuff and the angst when there's nothing there anyway.
Grrrrrrrrrr! Cross with self!
Friday, 20 August 2010
YESTERDAY'S HIGH JINKS ...
... have left the girls absolutely worn out!!
I don't know about Maggie Mae and Isla, but Lily and Rose can barely lift their heads up today. I've never known them so quiet - even Rose has slept pretty much all afternoon. (As has Charles strangely enough!)
I felt really sorry for Isla yesterday. I honestly think she didn't know what to make of the power-struggle between Maggie and Lily. I hope she's back to her usual self today.
I don't know about Maggie Mae and Isla, but Lily and Rose can barely lift their heads up today. I've never known them so quiet - even Rose has slept pretty much all afternoon. (As has Charles strangely enough!)
I felt really sorry for Isla yesterday. I honestly think she didn't know what to make of the power-struggle between Maggie and Lily. I hope she's back to her usual self today.
WHILE WAITING FOR CHARLES...
... I walked into town and managed to stumble across THE MOST AMAZING BOOTS in, of all places M and S.
If I hadn't told you this, I could have passed them off as All Saints, because obviously they came home with me - BUT instead of paying the best part of £200, these babies set me back a mere £30(ish)...
... AND THEY ARE GORGEOUS!
If I hadn't told you this, I could have passed them off as All Saints, because obviously they came home with me - BUT instead of paying the best part of £200, these babies set me back a mere £30(ish)...
... AND THEY ARE GORGEOUS!
OKAY...
After all my indecisiveness last night, the decision about whether or not to go to the RVI was effectively made for me by Lily and Rose, who decided to get up at 6.45 this morning.
As we were up so early, it made sense for Charles to drop me in town, return home to sort out the girls and then pick me up when I was done.
And so that is what we did.
The wait in Eye Casualty wasn't so bad this morning. Once it was my turn I was actually seen by no fewer than THREE doctors, who described my case as 'complicated' and informed me that there is some evidence that the back of the cornea is now infected. The cloudiness I'm experiencing is a complication arising from the herpes simplex virus (can't remember the name of it just now) and I've been put on steroids to help with that. The oral Aciclovir has been DOUBLED to 800mgs, five times a day and I've to use the ointment again, even though they agreed it can be caustic to the cornea. If the pain is too extreme though, I've to go back in 24 hours!
I have to say I can't fault the attenton I had today. I was in there for an hour's consultation, so can't complain at that. I just hope all this starts to have some effect.
As we were up so early, it made sense for Charles to drop me in town, return home to sort out the girls and then pick me up when I was done.
And so that is what we did.
The wait in Eye Casualty wasn't so bad this morning. Once it was my turn I was actually seen by no fewer than THREE doctors, who described my case as 'complicated' and informed me that there is some evidence that the back of the cornea is now infected. The cloudiness I'm experiencing is a complication arising from the herpes simplex virus (can't remember the name of it just now) and I've been put on steroids to help with that. The oral Aciclovir has been DOUBLED to 800mgs, five times a day and I've to use the ointment again, even though they agreed it can be caustic to the cornea. If the pain is too extreme though, I've to go back in 24 hours!
I have to say I can't fault the attenton I had today. I was in there for an hour's consultation, so can't complain at that. I just hope all this starts to have some effect.
Thursday, 19 August 2010
SLEEPY GIRLS!!
Just heard from Dannymatt that Isla and Maggie Mae are flat out after their Day of Torment!
As for the Tormentors themselves - they were safely tucked up in bed at 8.30 this evening - absolutely shattered they were.
We've had a lovely day today, but will not be needing to eat for a while! (Why oh why couldn't it actually be like that. Eat a big meal and then be able to go without food for a couple of days - sort of like a Food Camel?)
I'm still trying to make up my mind about going to the hospital tomorrow. At the moment I just can't face it, but I know I ought to go really as there is certainly something going on with the vision in my lef eye - and not in a good way.
As for the Tormentors themselves - they were safely tucked up in bed at 8.30 this evening - absolutely shattered they were.
We've had a lovely day today, but will not be needing to eat for a while! (Why oh why couldn't it actually be like that. Eat a big meal and then be able to go without food for a couple of days - sort of like a Food Camel?)
I'm still trying to make up my mind about going to the hospital tomorrow. At the moment I just can't face it, but I know I ought to go really as there is certainly something going on with the vision in my lef eye - and not in a good way.
MAGGIE MAE AND ISLA...
... must be praying for a bit of peace and quiet now!
They arrived with their dad, Dannymatt, at about 11.30 this morning and have had the life pestered out of them by Lily ever since.
There is clearly a case of Top Dog going on here today. Lily is not used to being anything less than the alpha female and is finding it hard to cope with Maggie who is very definitely The Boss today. Lily has tried everything she can to wind the guests up and keeps getting knocked back, but moments later she's back for more.
They've all been to the Dog Park for a good chase around, but still came back and used the living room as a race track.
For the last few minutes all has been quiet, so hopefully they'll all have a bit of a sleep for a while!!
They arrived with their dad, Dannymatt, at about 11.30 this morning and have had the life pestered out of them by Lily ever since.
There is clearly a case of Top Dog going on here today. Lily is not used to being anything less than the alpha female and is finding it hard to cope with Maggie who is very definitely The Boss today. Lily has tried everything she can to wind the guests up and keeps getting knocked back, but moments later she's back for more.
They've all been to the Dog Park for a good chase around, but still came back and used the living room as a race track.
For the last few minutes all has been quiet, so hopefully they'll all have a bit of a sleep for a while!!
JUST GETTING...
... lunch ready for dannymatt!
On the menu is: Leek and bacon ramekins with melba toast to start, Asian style salmon, with dauphinoise potates and seasonal veg, followed by individual apple pie.
Dinner will be a bit more rustic with Five Hour Lamb and crusty bread followed by lemon posset and homemade biscuits.
The girls are back in bed after their late night. Little do they know about the excitement that lies ahead today!!
On the menu is: Leek and bacon ramekins with melba toast to start, Asian style salmon, with dauphinoise potates and seasonal veg, followed by individual apple pie.
Dinner will be a bit more rustic with Five Hour Lamb and crusty bread followed by lemon posset and homemade biscuits.
The girls are back in bed after their late night. Little do they know about the excitement that lies ahead today!!
Wednesday, 18 August 2010
THE GIRLS HAVE BEEN...
... turning themseves inside out tonight, because James is in the process of moving back home temporarily and there's been lots of coming and going that has disturbed their bedtime!!
They couldn't understand why we kept bringing bags of stuff and bits of furniture into the house and then disappearing with them into the loft. The last lot arrived at about 11 o'clock and the girls have just got to sleep after a very grumpy hour or so during which they didn't know where to put themselves.
They really are creatures of habit and hate any change to their normal routine. Every so often they would look at me with big eyes as if to say, "What IS going on, Mum?"
Anyway - it's done now. For the next few weeks James will split his time between here and Claire's flat while they look for place of their own.
i had a bit of a chuckle when he was telling me that they already have a 'naughty cupboard'! This is the cupboard that contains all the lovely treats that are SOOO bad for you. When I laughed at him, his reply was that I don't just have a naughty cupboard, but a whole naughty kitchen!!
Well, we're looking forward to tomorrow and having Dannymatt round for the day. Hopefully he'll be bringing Maggie Mae and Isla, so Lily and Rose will have an exciting time with them.
But, right now, I'm absolutely knackered, so am off to bed!
They couldn't understand why we kept bringing bags of stuff and bits of furniture into the house and then disappearing with them into the loft. The last lot arrived at about 11 o'clock and the girls have just got to sleep after a very grumpy hour or so during which they didn't know where to put themselves.
They really are creatures of habit and hate any change to their normal routine. Every so often they would look at me with big eyes as if to say, "What IS going on, Mum?"
Anyway - it's done now. For the next few weeks James will split his time between here and Claire's flat while they look for place of their own.
i had a bit of a chuckle when he was telling me that they already have a 'naughty cupboard'! This is the cupboard that contains all the lovely treats that are SOOO bad for you. When I laughed at him, his reply was that I don't just have a naughty cupboard, but a whole naughty kitchen!!
Well, we're looking forward to tomorrow and having Dannymatt round for the day. Hopefully he'll be bringing Maggie Mae and Isla, so Lily and Rose will have an exciting time with them.
But, right now, I'm absolutely knackered, so am off to bed!
CHARLES IS BEING...
... very helpful in the kitchen today!
He'shad his head stuck inside Jamie's 'Ministry of Food', which I actually ordered for James and Claire, and he's clearly been inspired to cook!!
The highlight so far has been the conversation that went, "Oh don't worry about the plastic spatula Charles. They DO melt if you leave them in a pan of boiling milk. I know I only got it last week, but I can easily get another one!"
He'shad his head stuck inside Jamie's 'Ministry of Food', which I actually ordered for James and Claire, and he's clearly been inspired to cook!!
The highlight so far has been the conversation that went, "Oh don't worry about the plastic spatula Charles. They DO melt if you leave them in a pan of boiling milk. I know I only got it last week, but I can easily get another one!"
Tuesday, 17 August 2010
IT OCCURRED TO ME...
... that I haven't mentioned my eye for a couple of days.
Let me rectify that.
I suppose the fact that it has become less high profile is a good thing. There is certainly some significant improvement. The pain and discomfort have pretty much gone and I can cope in most light apart from bright sunshine. The worst thing is the extremely distorted vision, which makes me think that the scarring has probably worsened.
We'll probably go through to the RVI on Friday so I can discuss the possibility of reducing the medication.
Let me rectify that.
I suppose the fact that it has become less high profile is a good thing. There is certainly some significant improvement. The pain and discomfort have pretty much gone and I can cope in most light apart from bright sunshine. The worst thing is the extremely distorted vision, which makes me think that the scarring has probably worsened.
We'll probably go through to the RVI on Friday so I can discuss the possibility of reducing the medication.
LILY AND ROSE...
... have been little monsters tonight!
Clearly, having been on their best behaviour for the last couple of days while Charles and I have been decorating, has taken it's toll and this evening we had payback!!
In the end, Charles took them to their room and put them to bed early!!! "Get to your room and stay there until you know how to behave!"
Seriously, it's just been high jinks - but quite a lot of them. One of those evenings when you cant take your eyes off them for a second. The thing is, no matter how naughty they are, they just look up with those big eyes and I can't stay cross for long.
Clearly, having been on their best behaviour for the last couple of days while Charles and I have been decorating, has taken it's toll and this evening we had payback!!
In the end, Charles took them to their room and put them to bed early!!! "Get to your room and stay there until you know how to behave!"
Seriously, it's just been high jinks - but quite a lot of them. One of those evenings when you cant take your eyes off them for a second. The thing is, no matter how naughty they are, they just look up with those big eyes and I can't stay cross for long.
TIRED THIS MORNING!
I think the last couple of days are catching up a bit, but we're on the last lap now. Charles has gone off to Alnwick to get more wallpaper paste and some storage boxes for James who is moving out of his flat in Morpeth and looking for a place in Gosforth with Claire.
I'm getting ready for a baking day. As part of Helen and my long term plan to make a business out of baking, I'm in the process of trialling different cakes and traybakes. These will need to be sampled by friends and family and honest opinions given about their saleability. Obviously, there is a long way to go before we can set up as a business, not least of which is finding suitable kitchen premises, but we can at least begin the research now. So, be prepared to be guinea pigs please!!
I'm getting ready for a baking day. As part of Helen and my long term plan to make a business out of baking, I'm in the process of trialling different cakes and traybakes. These will need to be sampled by friends and family and honest opinions given about their saleability. Obviously, there is a long way to go before we can set up as a business, not least of which is finding suitable kitchen premises, but we can at least begin the research now. So, be prepared to be guinea pigs please!!
Monday, 16 August 2010
VERY BUSY DAY!!
But we're almost finished!
In fairness, I have to say that we thought we were COMPLETELY done at 5.30. Charles was busy tidying up and washing out the paste bucket and I was hanging the mirror, when I looked up and realised that we'd managed to miss the bit over the kitchen door!! "Don't wash the paste away Charles, we've missed a..." Too late came the cry! Nice clean bucket - no paste - have to get more tomorrow! Sod it!!
Then we had James coming round to watch the footie (won't make any comment about THAT)and to stay the night. He brought with him not one, but TWO bags of laundry (bless him) and me being me, I had to get the whole lot done before calling it a day.
We've had fun and games with the smoke alarms again today. They've been going off for no reason whatsoever and things got so bad that Charles turned the switch off in the fuse box.We thought that was the end of it, until a few hours later when they started again and were clearly NOT going to stop. The dogs were absolutely beside themselves by now; Rose furiously yapping and Lily trembling frantically. At this point after about half an hour of incessant noise - Chares cut the wires on all three alarms!! Now I know this isn't wise - but there is clearly a fault and they would still be going off now if he hadn't taken drastic action.
So tomorrow, we need to contact the manufacturer to find out what the hell's the matter with them. We also need to get wallpaper paste!
In fairness, I have to say that we thought we were COMPLETELY done at 5.30. Charles was busy tidying up and washing out the paste bucket and I was hanging the mirror, when I looked up and realised that we'd managed to miss the bit over the kitchen door!! "Don't wash the paste away Charles, we've missed a..." Too late came the cry! Nice clean bucket - no paste - have to get more tomorrow! Sod it!!
Then we had James coming round to watch the footie (won't make any comment about THAT)and to stay the night. He brought with him not one, but TWO bags of laundry (bless him) and me being me, I had to get the whole lot done before calling it a day.
We've had fun and games with the smoke alarms again today. They've been going off for no reason whatsoever and things got so bad that Charles turned the switch off in the fuse box.We thought that was the end of it, until a few hours later when they started again and were clearly NOT going to stop. The dogs were absolutely beside themselves by now; Rose furiously yapping and Lily trembling frantically. At this point after about half an hour of incessant noise - Chares cut the wires on all three alarms!! Now I know this isn't wise - but there is clearly a fault and they would still be going off now if he hadn't taken drastic action.
So tomorrow, we need to contact the manufacturer to find out what the hell's the matter with them. We also need to get wallpaper paste!
Sunday, 15 August 2010
OKAY, SO NOW I KNOW...
... WHY WE HAVEN'T CHANGED THE PAPER IN THE HALL IN 23 YEARS!!
Now, don't go imagining that it has remained completely untouched in that time. far from it - we've painted it in many different shades (not all at the same time obviously) and as you will realise from the fact that we have applied paint to it, it was a very nice WOODCHIP paper. Oh lovely!
Woodchip paper is obviously manufactured for people who have no intention of ever removing it from their walls. It does not behave like normal wallpaper! The top layer, which in our case was about an inch thick in paint layers. comes off in little hard bits, leaving a mess of - you guessed it woodchips - still attached to the wall and needing to be steamed off, at which point the whole lot turns into a sort of mushy, woody pulp that plops around, getting stuck on your shoes (or slippers if you're Charles) and setting as hard as rock to the floor if you don't spot it within about 30 seconds.
In short - it was a nightmare to remove and actually revealed a further problem in that the previous owners had had doors blocked up and where these had been there was just plaster under some of the WOODCHIP. In other areas though there were at least four layers of lining paper. As a result of the removal of all these layers we now have a much more spacious hallway!!
So, today we've stripped the paper, filled the holes, glossed the woodwork and given a coat of emulsion to the plaster. And tomorrow should ba all about hanging the new paper!
While we've been so busy, the girls have been left to their own devices pretty much and have been really good. They've kept coming to look through the glass kitchen door to check our progress, then wandering off outside again. The only slight problem was when the steam stripper kept setting off the smoke alarm. We have what must be the most sensitive alarm ever and there is no way it is smoke activated - it's a HEAT ALARM and can be set off by simply opening the dishwasher or the oven door. Anyway - it drives the girls crazy. Rose has a fit of barking, but little Lily turns into a jibbering wreck and has to leap into the nearest pair of arms where she will stay until it stops. As you can imagine, this involved a bit of juggling today!
Well, I think an early night is called for now. I want to be up early so that we get everything finished before we settle down tomorrow evening to enjoy (!) the Newcastle match. (Who're we playing again?)
Now, don't go imagining that it has remained completely untouched in that time. far from it - we've painted it in many different shades (not all at the same time obviously) and as you will realise from the fact that we have applied paint to it, it was a very nice WOODCHIP paper. Oh lovely!
Woodchip paper is obviously manufactured for people who have no intention of ever removing it from their walls. It does not behave like normal wallpaper! The top layer, which in our case was about an inch thick in paint layers. comes off in little hard bits, leaving a mess of - you guessed it woodchips - still attached to the wall and needing to be steamed off, at which point the whole lot turns into a sort of mushy, woody pulp that plops around, getting stuck on your shoes (or slippers if you're Charles) and setting as hard as rock to the floor if you don't spot it within about 30 seconds.
In short - it was a nightmare to remove and actually revealed a further problem in that the previous owners had had doors blocked up and where these had been there was just plaster under some of the WOODCHIP. In other areas though there were at least four layers of lining paper. As a result of the removal of all these layers we now have a much more spacious hallway!!
So, today we've stripped the paper, filled the holes, glossed the woodwork and given a coat of emulsion to the plaster. And tomorrow should ba all about hanging the new paper!
While we've been so busy, the girls have been left to their own devices pretty much and have been really good. They've kept coming to look through the glass kitchen door to check our progress, then wandering off outside again. The only slight problem was when the steam stripper kept setting off the smoke alarm. We have what must be the most sensitive alarm ever and there is no way it is smoke activated - it's a HEAT ALARM and can be set off by simply opening the dishwasher or the oven door. Anyway - it drives the girls crazy. Rose has a fit of barking, but little Lily turns into a jibbering wreck and has to leap into the nearest pair of arms where she will stay until it stops. As you can imagine, this involved a bit of juggling today!
Well, I think an early night is called for now. I want to be up early so that we get everything finished before we settle down tomorrow evening to enjoy (!) the Newcastle match. (Who're we playing again?)
SO FAR THIS MORNING...
... we've found:
frog's legs on the doorstep
gloopy yoghurt in the milk carton
green mould on the bread
and I've managed to forget I was making a cappuccino and left the machine to overflow causing a river of espresso to cascade down the front of the kitchen cupboards.
frog's legs on the doorstep
gloopy yoghurt in the milk carton
green mould on the bread
and I've managed to forget I was making a cappuccino and left the machine to overflow causing a river of espresso to cascade down the front of the kitchen cupboards.
OH MY GOD!!!
Charles went outside this morning and found four frog's legs on the back step! How horrendous is that?
And what I want to know is...
...Where is the body?
(Cue dannymatt with list of delicious ideas for frogs legs!!)
And what I want to know is...
...Where is the body?
(Cue dannymatt with list of delicious ideas for frogs legs!!)
Saturday, 14 August 2010
SEWING BOX!!
This is an item I have never possessed.
I have managed for years with one spool of black thread (and another one of invisible thread which was a complete waste of time because I could never see it!) and a couple of needles.
When James asked me to sew the hem on his trousers it suddenly occured to me that it was about time I rectified this situation, so off we went to 'The Sewing Box' in Morpeth this morning where I informed the very helpful ladies that I did indeed want a sewing box of my own.
I was proudly led to the collection of said boxes, only to discover the naffest collection of twee little fabric-covered, padded and braided sewing boxes you can ever imagine. It took quite a while to select one that didn't offend my sense of style and good taste (!) and even then it's got chickens and cows all over it and I only chose it because it has a duck egg blue background and was cheap.
Obviously it was empty, so it needed to be filled with all sorts of useful sewing stuff. Again, the ladies were very helpful and every time I chose something they would ask if I was really sure that's what I wanted! Then when other customers came in, I was told to carry on choosing, but they would keep an eye on me to make sure I didn't get into trouble!!!
Eventually, after a lengthy discussion about scissors and tape measures I managed to purchase needles, pins, thread in four useful colours, TWO pairs of scissors, a tape measure and some WUNDAWEB.
The whole lot cost about 50 quid! Ouch!
And when I got home, I found I already had WUNDAWEB so I turned his trouser hem up with that instead of having to sew anything!!!
(Mustn't let Charles read this - cos he paid!!)
I have managed for years with one spool of black thread (and another one of invisible thread which was a complete waste of time because I could never see it!) and a couple of needles.
When James asked me to sew the hem on his trousers it suddenly occured to me that it was about time I rectified this situation, so off we went to 'The Sewing Box' in Morpeth this morning where I informed the very helpful ladies that I did indeed want a sewing box of my own.
I was proudly led to the collection of said boxes, only to discover the naffest collection of twee little fabric-covered, padded and braided sewing boxes you can ever imagine. It took quite a while to select one that didn't offend my sense of style and good taste (!) and even then it's got chickens and cows all over it and I only chose it because it has a duck egg blue background and was cheap.
Obviously it was empty, so it needed to be filled with all sorts of useful sewing stuff. Again, the ladies were very helpful and every time I chose something they would ask if I was really sure that's what I wanted! Then when other customers came in, I was told to carry on choosing, but they would keep an eye on me to make sure I didn't get into trouble!!!
Eventually, after a lengthy discussion about scissors and tape measures I managed to purchase needles, pins, thread in four useful colours, TWO pairs of scissors, a tape measure and some WUNDAWEB.
The whole lot cost about 50 quid! Ouch!
And when I got home, I found I already had WUNDAWEB so I turned his trouser hem up with that instead of having to sew anything!!!
(Mustn't let Charles read this - cos he paid!!)
WHOOPS...
... now that I can see a bit better, I've noticed all the spelling mistakes in the last few posts!
Please accept my sincere apologies for such shoddy typing. Most of the time I've been doing it with one eye firmly closed against the glare of the screen and the other one wanting to keep closing in sympathy.
Anyway, with luck, the worst appears to be behind me, so normal service should resume shortly.
Please accept my sincere apologies for such shoddy typing. Most of the time I've been doing it with one eye firmly closed against the glare of the screen and the other one wanting to keep closing in sympathy.
Anyway, with luck, the worst appears to be behind me, so normal service should resume shortly.
I THINK (SHE SAID TENTATIVELY)...
... that there MAY be some improvement in the eye at least.
I decided that as things were so bad yeaterday and I was having so much discomfort when I used the ointment, that I would stop using it for a while and apply liberal amounts of artificial tears to try to alleviate the scorching sensation.
I have done exactly that today and am feeling significantly more comfortable. In fact for the first time in weeks I've managed to be outside without squinting this aftenoon. I know the doctor said the treament was 'aggressive' but I never thought it could be actually exacerbating the problem.
So, I will no doubt know within a day or two if I'm on the mend. Fingers crossed!
I decided that as things were so bad yeaterday and I was having so much discomfort when I used the ointment, that I would stop using it for a while and apply liberal amounts of artificial tears to try to alleviate the scorching sensation.
I have done exactly that today and am feeling significantly more comfortable. In fact for the first time in weeks I've managed to be outside without squinting this aftenoon. I know the doctor said the treament was 'aggressive' but I never thought it could be actually exacerbating the problem.
So, I will no doubt know within a day or two if I'm on the mend. Fingers crossed!
JEFF STELLING...
... LEGEND!!
How much have we missed him?
Saturdays are back to normal.
Just need some Classic Cammy now!
How much have we missed him?
Saturdays are back to normal.
Just need some Classic Cammy now!
WELL, WELL, WELL!!
There was me thinking the comment moderation box had disappeared and suddenly A NEW IMPROVED VERSION appears under the more minimal heading of 'Comments.'
I can now look back at all previously posted comments, check for Spam AND moderate new comments all in one convenient place.
So dannymatt - we're back to normal!
Also on the 'well, well, well' theme - what IS going on with Ben Arfa? Is he holed up at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel with his lawyers waiting for our beloved club to agree to talk to him after his impromptu arrival on Tyneside yesterday? If indeed he IS here I really hope Newcastle don't mess this up. A bit of a loose cannon he may be - but surely he'll fit right in with the other crazies in our team!
I can now look back at all previously posted comments, check for Spam AND moderate new comments all in one convenient place.
So dannymatt - we're back to normal!
Also on the 'well, well, well' theme - what IS going on with Ben Arfa? Is he holed up at the Jesmond Dene House Hotel with his lawyers waiting for our beloved club to agree to talk to him after his impromptu arrival on Tyneside yesterday? If indeed he IS here I really hope Newcastle don't mess this up. A bit of a loose cannon he may be - but surely he'll fit right in with the other crazies in our team!
Friday, 13 August 2010
COMMENT MODERATION...
... buttons have disappeared from both computers now. What IS going on?
How can I be expected to cope with the huge backlog of unmoderated comments when it's all sorted out again?
How can I be expected to cope with the huge backlog of unmoderated comments when it's all sorted out again?
I THOUGHT ROSE WAS WITH CHARLES...
... HE thought she was with me.
In fact she was actually happily lying on the bed, having gone through the contents of my handbag, munching her way through a pack of fruity mentos!!
(No doubt, there'll be multi-coloured poop later!)
(And with all that artificial colouring, she'll probably be more hyper than ever!)
In fact she was actually happily lying on the bed, having gone through the contents of my handbag, munching her way through a pack of fruity mentos!!
(No doubt, there'll be multi-coloured poop later!)
(And with all that artificial colouring, she'll probably be more hyper than ever!)
HORRIBLE, MISERABLE MORNING!
Wet, windy, cold and forecast to be like this for the next few days. Brilliant!!
It DOES make things easier on the eye though, so I suppose I should be thankful for small mercies.
Talking of the eye - things are not good at all this morning. It's as uncomfortable as ever and is wanting to shut all the time. So progress so far - ABSOLUTELY NIL. Although I can go back to Casualty any time I'm starting to lose confidence in their diagnosis. I will probably go back next week, but hold out little hope that things will get better. I've got an appointment with the consultant on September 3rd, which seems ages away, but I honestly think there'll be no real improvement until then.
I'm not going to mention decorating to Charles. Everything is ready and in clear view as a constant reminder - but I want HIM to suggest that we make a start. Patience and tolerance eh dannymatt!!
The girls had a long lie-in this morning. This clearly demonstrates Sod's Law as last night I had managed to get Charles to agree to get up with them, thus giving me a bit longer in bed, only to find that I was actually awake and waiting to hear them stir!
They're kind of sulking about today. They don't really want to be outside in the cold and wet, but they don't want to be cooped up inside either. I know exactly how they feel!!
It DOES make things easier on the eye though, so I suppose I should be thankful for small mercies.
Talking of the eye - things are not good at all this morning. It's as uncomfortable as ever and is wanting to shut all the time. So progress so far - ABSOLUTELY NIL. Although I can go back to Casualty any time I'm starting to lose confidence in their diagnosis. I will probably go back next week, but hold out little hope that things will get better. I've got an appointment with the consultant on September 3rd, which seems ages away, but I honestly think there'll be no real improvement until then.
I'm not going to mention decorating to Charles. Everything is ready and in clear view as a constant reminder - but I want HIM to suggest that we make a start. Patience and tolerance eh dannymatt!!
The girls had a long lie-in this morning. This clearly demonstrates Sod's Law as last night I had managed to get Charles to agree to get up with them, thus giving me a bit longer in bed, only to find that I was actually awake and waiting to hear them stir!
They're kind of sulking about today. They don't really want to be outside in the cold and wet, but they don't want to be cooped up inside either. I know exactly how they feel!!
Thursday, 12 August 2010
THAT'S STRANGE!
When I post a new blog I'm always told if there are comments to moderate.
But, weirdly, this evening there is no sign of the 'Comment Moderation' icon at all!
Where could it have gone?
But, weirdly, this evening there is no sign of the 'Comment Moderation' icon at all!
Where could it have gone?
WALLPAPER...
... purchased!
(But to be on the safe side we're going to get an extra roll from Alnwick, as there were only five rolls at the Kingston Park store. Charles reckons we'll JUST have enough, but I hate worrying about it and would rather take a spare roll back than find we've run out.)
We went to a couple of places before agreeing that the original paper was the only one.
(This WAS predicted by yours truly yesterday you will recall! And it wasn't a case of me insisting on it either - it was very much a joint decision!)
I have to say, I don't think Charles is over the moon about the prospect of two days decorating - but like I said to him, what else is he planning to do? There's only so many hours you can sit in front of the television, surely?
(But to be on the safe side we're going to get an extra roll from Alnwick, as there were only five rolls at the Kingston Park store. Charles reckons we'll JUST have enough, but I hate worrying about it and would rather take a spare roll back than find we've run out.)
We went to a couple of places before agreeing that the original paper was the only one.
(This WAS predicted by yours truly yesterday you will recall! And it wasn't a case of me insisting on it either - it was very much a joint decision!)
I have to say, I don't think Charles is over the moon about the prospect of two days decorating - but like I said to him, what else is he planning to do? There's only so many hours you can sit in front of the television, surely?
NUFC
Is it just me, or does anyone else rush to SSN in the morning, or open up News Now in the vain hope of finding that we've actually signed someone?
Maybe when that press release came out in May the club really DID mean there was no money for transfers, but all the speculation is seriously doing my head in.
Man Utd Monday. God help us!
Maybe when that press release came out in May the club really DID mean there was no money for transfers, but all the speculation is seriously doing my head in.
Man Utd Monday. God help us!
IT'S NOW A FULL WEEK...
... since my last visit to Eye Casualty.
Is there a big improvement?
Not in the slightest.
There may be some reduction in the swelling, but the degree of light sensitivity is still extreme. I can't tell if the original scarring is now worse or if the ointment I use is causing blurring, but I do know that the vision I now have in that eye is much worse than it was before. It's like looking through a net curtain or a veil.
Very very fed up now.
Is there a big improvement?
Not in the slightest.
There may be some reduction in the swelling, but the degree of light sensitivity is still extreme. I can't tell if the original scarring is now worse or if the ointment I use is causing blurring, but I do know that the vision I now have in that eye is much worse than it was before. It's like looking through a net curtain or a veil.
Very very fed up now.
Wednesday, 11 August 2010
GUESS...
... what Charles has suggested we do tomorrow?
He thinks we should go and look at more wallpaper.
YEAH - RESULT!!
(I bet we still end up with the one we saw today!)
He thinks we should go and look at more wallpaper.
YEAH - RESULT!!
(I bet we still end up with the one we saw today!)
TEE HEE!!!
Went up to Alnwick today and called at Homebase because Charles wanted to do some research on a barbeque he's seen on t'internet. (He's been umming and ahhing for days now - by the time he decides the BBQ season will be over for another year, although he will almost certainly get it at the reduced price he's waiting for!! Great!)
While we were there we had a little wander over to the wallpaper section. Not the best selection admittedly but the significance of it is that a) Charles actually made it to the wallpapers without having a panic attack and b) once we were there he was quite keen to find papers that he thought would look good in the hall. And, surprisingly, we did indeed find the perfect paper. (In white and duck egg, so a perfect match for the rest of the house.)
Rather than pushing things too far, I let us leave without buying the paper, but did ask him when we got back to the house if he could visualise the paper on our walls. And he did indeed say he could.
So far so good then.
The SLIGHT drawback came when he mentioned that he thought that it was lovely BUT he didn't really think we needed to be doing it just yet.
So Charles - just how often SHOULD we be decorating? Admittedly it's only been 23 years since the existing paper went on, and there's probably a few years left in it, but I would love to know just when you might think about changing it. WOODCHIP ISN'T A GOOD LOOK EVEN WHEN IT'S BEEN PAINTED OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
And now I've started thinking about it, there's no way I'm going to let it drop, so we might as well just get on with it!
While we were there we had a little wander over to the wallpaper section. Not the best selection admittedly but the significance of it is that a) Charles actually made it to the wallpapers without having a panic attack and b) once we were there he was quite keen to find papers that he thought would look good in the hall. And, surprisingly, we did indeed find the perfect paper. (In white and duck egg, so a perfect match for the rest of the house.)
Rather than pushing things too far, I let us leave without buying the paper, but did ask him when we got back to the house if he could visualise the paper on our walls. And he did indeed say he could.
So far so good then.
The SLIGHT drawback came when he mentioned that he thought that it was lovely BUT he didn't really think we needed to be doing it just yet.
So Charles - just how often SHOULD we be decorating? Admittedly it's only been 23 years since the existing paper went on, and there's probably a few years left in it, but I would love to know just when you might think about changing it. WOODCHIP ISN'T A GOOD LOOK EVEN WHEN IT'S BEEN PAINTED OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
And now I've started thinking about it, there's no way I'm going to let it drop, so we might as well just get on with it!
CHARLES WANTS TO KNOW...
... what we're going to do today.
This is quite difficult. It's a very bright morning, so I don't feel too comfortable outside. (I DO think that there is a slight improvement in the poorly eye, but it's still nowhere near right. I am managing to get artificial tears into it now though, and they seem to help to allievate the scorching sensation I get from the Aciclovir.) I think Charles would have liked to go to SJP to watch the boys training, but we're too late for that now.
I'm a little surprised he hasn't suggested Alnwick Gardens/Cragside/Wallington again as he's bought subscriptions to all of these and will be wanting to get his money's worth!!
James has been on the phone this morning. He's going to look at an apartment with Claire today. Just looking at the moment I think, but with a view to getting a place in a couple of months. He and Duncan have given up their flat in Morpeth as Dunc has bought his own place and moves in at the weekend, so for a short time Jim may be coming back to us, although I suspect we won't see much of him as he spends most of his time in Gosforth these days!! He's coming up here this evening for tea, so I'm sure he'll have plenty to talk about.
As for the girls - they've been having a good chase around in the garden and are getting ready for a bit of a rest. We've been laughing again at their different personalities. Poor old Lily often can't be bothered with her manic sister and tries to find little hidey-holes so she can escape for a while. Rose has other ideas!! Not only does she continue to goad Lily, even when it's obvious that shes on very dodgy ground and is risking life and limb by persuing her unwanted attention, but if Lily really isn't going to play she then turns to US and if THAT doesn't work, she just looks round to see what mischief she can get into that will almost certainly guarantee she gets the attention she craves. And it works every time!!
This is quite difficult. It's a very bright morning, so I don't feel too comfortable outside. (I DO think that there is a slight improvement in the poorly eye, but it's still nowhere near right. I am managing to get artificial tears into it now though, and they seem to help to allievate the scorching sensation I get from the Aciclovir.) I think Charles would have liked to go to SJP to watch the boys training, but we're too late for that now.
I'm a little surprised he hasn't suggested Alnwick Gardens/Cragside/Wallington again as he's bought subscriptions to all of these and will be wanting to get his money's worth!!
James has been on the phone this morning. He's going to look at an apartment with Claire today. Just looking at the moment I think, but with a view to getting a place in a couple of months. He and Duncan have given up their flat in Morpeth as Dunc has bought his own place and moves in at the weekend, so for a short time Jim may be coming back to us, although I suspect we won't see much of him as he spends most of his time in Gosforth these days!! He's coming up here this evening for tea, so I'm sure he'll have plenty to talk about.
As for the girls - they've been having a good chase around in the garden and are getting ready for a bit of a rest. We've been laughing again at their different personalities. Poor old Lily often can't be bothered with her manic sister and tries to find little hidey-holes so she can escape for a while. Rose has other ideas!! Not only does she continue to goad Lily, even when it's obvious that shes on very dodgy ground and is risking life and limb by persuing her unwanted attention, but if Lily really isn't going to play she then turns to US and if THAT doesn't work, she just looks round to see what mischief she can get into that will almost certainly guarantee she gets the attention she craves. And it works every time!!
WOULD YOU BELIEVE IT!
I have to follow a flaming tutorial on-line if I want to know how to use my phone!
All I want to do is to make and receive calls and send a few texts.
Why is it so complicated? There are dozens of tutorials telling me stuff I don't really need to know - but can I find the one that tells me how to delete stuff when I've finished with it? No!
Sometimes things are just too complicated.
All I want to do is to make and receive calls and send a few texts.
Why is it so complicated? There are dozens of tutorials telling me stuff I don't really need to know - but can I find the one that tells me how to delete stuff when I've finished with it? No!
Sometimes things are just too complicated.
Tuesday, 10 August 2010
BEEN BUSY...
... playing with my new toy this evening!
How good is it to be able to send a text using a proper keyboard? Makes a nice change from all that frantic counting and pressing I had to do before. I never did get the hang of predictive text. I DID try, but I would want to say,'What time will you be getting home?' and it would come up with something like 'Have you seen the monkeys in the tree?' - totally random stuff that I could never correct and never made any sense whatsoever. So, at least I don't have THAT problem any more.
However I will be needing James to sort me out with a new ringtone as I don't know how to do that.
Aso - I haven't worked out how to switch it off yet! Better go and find the destructions!!
How good is it to be able to send a text using a proper keyboard? Makes a nice change from all that frantic counting and pressing I had to do before. I never did get the hang of predictive text. I DID try, but I would want to say,'What time will you be getting home?' and it would come up with something like 'Have you seen the monkeys in the tree?' - totally random stuff that I could never correct and never made any sense whatsoever. So, at least I don't have THAT problem any more.
However I will be needing James to sort me out with a new ringtone as I don't know how to do that.
Aso - I haven't worked out how to switch it off yet! Better go and find the destructions!!
JUST HEARD...
... That my 21 year old niece has been really poorly.
Amy has significant special needs and an extremely rare condition that affects her growth. She is becoming more immobile as she gets older and has just been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis.
Just want to let my brother and sister-in-law know that were thinking about them all.
Amy has significant special needs and an extremely rare condition that affects her growth. She is becoming more immobile as she gets older and has just been diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis.
Just want to let my brother and sister-in-law know that were thinking about them all.
BIT OF A...
... non-day really.
Spent most of the time hanging around waiting for a call to tell us that my phone had arrived, and even then WE had to make the call. I think we'd still be waiting if we'd left it to O2 in Morpeth.
So, very frustrating day really. As you know, I don't do patience, nor do I like to feel as if I can't settle to anything, which is what it's been like today.
Made some cupcakes this evening though. Tried a different recipe for the sponge using buttermilk which should make the sponge very light. Oh, that's another frustrating thing about today. I wanted to make some icing butterflies for the tops of the cakes and have a little tin of different butterfly cutters for that purpose. Could I find them? They are nowhere to be seen - despite Charles ever so helpfully deciding to empty all the kitchen cupboards out in an attempt to locate them. The thing that got me was he emptied everything out, declared the missing cutters weren't there - and then left everything for ME to put away! So - I've used hearts instead!!
Spent most of the time hanging around waiting for a call to tell us that my phone had arrived, and even then WE had to make the call. I think we'd still be waiting if we'd left it to O2 in Morpeth.
So, very frustrating day really. As you know, I don't do patience, nor do I like to feel as if I can't settle to anything, which is what it's been like today.
Made some cupcakes this evening though. Tried a different recipe for the sponge using buttermilk which should make the sponge very light. Oh, that's another frustrating thing about today. I wanted to make some icing butterflies for the tops of the cakes and have a little tin of different butterfly cutters for that purpose. Could I find them? They are nowhere to be seen - despite Charles ever so helpfully deciding to empty all the kitchen cupboards out in an attempt to locate them. The thing that got me was he emptied everything out, declared the missing cutters weren't there - and then left everything for ME to put away! So - I've used hearts instead!!
MANAGED TO GET...
... the Aciclovar ointment in my eye without collapsing in agony for half an hour.
Could this be a good sign I wonder?
We've had a very quiet start to the day and the girls have missed their morning cuddles with Helen! She rang last night to say their own dogs (Digby and Tex) look HUGE after spending a couple of weeks with out little things. She reminded me of when the kids were little and we'd just got that manic kitten. Helen and Bill had a grown up one-eyed cat by the name of Midge at the time. After visiting us and encountering our tiny kitten, Rachel had gone home and declared that Midge had turned into a GIANT!!
It's a lovely bright (too bright for me) morning. The dogs are making the most of the sun, lying outside and basking in it contentedly. Well, actually LILY is doing the basking and Rose is TRYING to do likewise, but her ever present need to be on the go is getting the better of her and she only manages to be still for about five seconds before having to get up to investigate something. Just chill Rose - apparently it's good for you!!
At some point today, we'll be going to pick up my new phone from the O2 shop in Morpeth. Charles will then spend the afternoon investigating it and I'll end up without a clue how it works! It's always the same. After years and years I've only just learned how to use the DVD player, and that's no good to me now, as we've just got a new one!
Apart from the phone, I'm not sure what's on the cards today. I treated myself to a cake decorating book yesterday and I'm tempted to have a play in the kitchen, but it'll depend on what Charles wants to do I suppose.
Okay, I'm off for a cappuccino now. Be back later!
Could this be a good sign I wonder?
We've had a very quiet start to the day and the girls have missed their morning cuddles with Helen! She rang last night to say their own dogs (Digby and Tex) look HUGE after spending a couple of weeks with out little things. She reminded me of when the kids were little and we'd just got that manic kitten. Helen and Bill had a grown up one-eyed cat by the name of Midge at the time. After visiting us and encountering our tiny kitten, Rachel had gone home and declared that Midge had turned into a GIANT!!
It's a lovely bright (too bright for me) morning. The dogs are making the most of the sun, lying outside and basking in it contentedly. Well, actually LILY is doing the basking and Rose is TRYING to do likewise, but her ever present need to be on the go is getting the better of her and she only manages to be still for about five seconds before having to get up to investigate something. Just chill Rose - apparently it's good for you!!
At some point today, we'll be going to pick up my new phone from the O2 shop in Morpeth. Charles will then spend the afternoon investigating it and I'll end up without a clue how it works! It's always the same. After years and years I've only just learned how to use the DVD player, and that's no good to me now, as we've just got a new one!
Apart from the phone, I'm not sure what's on the cards today. I treated myself to a cake decorating book yesterday and I'm tempted to have a play in the kitchen, but it'll depend on what Charles wants to do I suppose.
Okay, I'm off for a cappuccino now. Be back later!
Monday, 9 August 2010
I'M GETTING...
...a new phone tomorrow!! We called into the O2 shop in Morpeth and ordered
a Sony-Erikkson Experia X10 or something like that.
If it had been left to me I would never have got round to changing my (one time) funky Cath Kidston phone, but I really want one of those qwerty keypads for all the hundreds of texts I send just to speed up the process, you understand. (I'm joking about the hundreds - apparently my average mobile phone use is around 2 minutes of calls and about ten texts a month!! Probbly not O2's favourite customer then!!)
The deal isn't quite as good as Charles gets, but then he practically has Orange paying HIM to use their phone. He has checked on-line to see if he can get me an improved deal - but he can't improve on the one we've been offered in the shop. So, he's happy that we've got the best deal and I'm happy because I'm getting a new, funky phone!
a Sony-Erikkson Experia X10 or something like that.
If it had been left to me I would never have got round to changing my (one time) funky Cath Kidston phone, but I really want one of those qwerty keypads for all the hundreds of texts I send just to speed up the process, you understand. (I'm joking about the hundreds - apparently my average mobile phone use is around 2 minutes of calls and about ten texts a month!! Probbly not O2's favourite customer then!!)
The deal isn't quite as good as Charles gets, but then he practically has Orange paying HIM to use their phone. He has checked on-line to see if he can get me an improved deal - but he can't improve on the one we've been offered in the shop. So, he's happy that we've got the best deal and I'm happy because I'm getting a new, funky phone!
VERY QUIET NOW!!
Helen and Bill left for home this morning - and the house seems strngely quiet!
We have however had a major laundry and cleaning session since they left and the place is now spotless. Not that I'm suggesting it was disgustingly filthy while they were here, but you never want to clean properly when you've got guests do you?
We're off to Morpeth in a minute, if I can prise Charles away from his DVDs. I think he got about twelve for his birthday - oh how well do we know him?!
The eye isn't good today. All this false hope is getting to me now. It seemed fine yesterday morning and then during the course of the afternoon became increasingly uncomfortable and by the evening I could barely open it at all. Looks like we'll be back at the RVI in the next day or two. Should get a Season Ticket for their car park!
We have however had a major laundry and cleaning session since they left and the place is now spotless. Not that I'm suggesting it was disgustingly filthy while they were here, but you never want to clean properly when you've got guests do you?
We're off to Morpeth in a minute, if I can prise Charles away from his DVDs. I think he got about twelve for his birthday - oh how well do we know him?!
The eye isn't good today. All this false hope is getting to me now. It seemed fine yesterday morning and then during the course of the afternoon became increasingly uncomfortable and by the evening I could barely open it at all. Looks like we'll be back at the RVI in the next day or two. Should get a Season Ticket for their car park!
Sunday, 8 August 2010
FAR TOO FULL!!
Can't really move much now to be honest. Feel as if I never want to eat again, but unfortunately will have forgotten the feeling by morning.
I think Charles has had a good birthday. We had breakfast then went for a alk by the river in orpeth, stopping for hot chocolate (well, lukewarm actually) before heading home for presents with the kids, Christina, James and Claire.
Then it was off to the Cook and Barker for lunch - a very laid back affair from which we didn't return until about 3.30, having decided to skip dessert and have cream scones with strawberries and birthday cookie at home instead.
James and Claire stayed until late afternoon and it was lovely just to sit around chatting whilst nursing our very full stomachs!
Since they left, Charles has set up the new blu-ray DVD payer I bought him and is watching 'Up' an uplifing little animation which has him (and helen and Bill) engrossed.
I tried to watch with them, but the eye that had been doing so well suddenly decided to play up again so I gave up and went through to have big cuddles with the girls, who feel like velvet and still smell of baby powder.
Helen and Bill are going home tomorrow - decorating and other chores await them. It'll be really strange when they go. Lily and Rose have got quite used to their early morning cuddles with Helen!
So, tomorrow is major housework for me, with a bit of shopping thrown in for good measure. I'm trying to persuade Charles that we could re-paper the hall, but he's dragging his heels. Claire reckons I could tear a bit of the existing paper (which has been on the walls for as long as we've been in the house - we moved in when James was 3 and he's 25 now, so perhaps you can understand why I'd like to change it) and that would force the issue and I have to say I'm pretty tempted to give it a go. I reckon it would take two days at the most to do the whole job, and it's not even as if we'd have the upheaval of moving furniture around. Anyway, I'll continue to drip-feed the idea for now, but if there's little response will resort to more extreme measures!!
I think Charles has had a good birthday. We had breakfast then went for a alk by the river in orpeth, stopping for hot chocolate (well, lukewarm actually) before heading home for presents with the kids, Christina, James and Claire.
Then it was off to the Cook and Barker for lunch - a very laid back affair from which we didn't return until about 3.30, having decided to skip dessert and have cream scones with strawberries and birthday cookie at home instead.
James and Claire stayed until late afternoon and it was lovely just to sit around chatting whilst nursing our very full stomachs!
Since they left, Charles has set up the new blu-ray DVD payer I bought him and is watching 'Up' an uplifing little animation which has him (and helen and Bill) engrossed.
I tried to watch with them, but the eye that had been doing so well suddenly decided to play up again so I gave up and went through to have big cuddles with the girls, who feel like velvet and still smell of baby powder.
Helen and Bill are going home tomorrow - decorating and other chores await them. It'll be really strange when they go. Lily and Rose have got quite used to their early morning cuddles with Helen!
So, tomorrow is major housework for me, with a bit of shopping thrown in for good measure. I'm trying to persuade Charles that we could re-paper the hall, but he's dragging his heels. Claire reckons I could tear a bit of the existing paper (which has been on the walls for as long as we've been in the house - we moved in when James was 3 and he's 25 now, so perhaps you can understand why I'd like to change it) and that would force the issue and I have to say I'm pretty tempted to give it a go. I reckon it would take two days at the most to do the whole job, and it's not even as if we'd have the upheaval of moving furniture around. Anyway, I'll continue to drip-feed the idea for now, but if there's little response will resort to more extreme measures!!
Saturday, 7 August 2010
WHAT A DISAPPOINTMENT...
... Kelso was.
It is years since we were last there and I'm sure we all loved it at the time. We had coffee in the main town square (where the cars were parked today) and found some lovely little shops. Now though, it's just like any other small town. In fact we could have been in Any Old Boring Town really. We all came away feeling a bit let down.
On the way though, we stopped for coffee and traybakes at The Hirsel, where we bought some beautiful glassware and Charles treated me to a couple of exquisite necklaces. Thank you Charles - I love them.
We picked the girls up from Woofcuts on the way home. They both look fab and have that lovely baby powder smell which makes a nice change from Bouquet of Smelly Dog. They've been cut quite close, but look very smart as a result. At least Rose hasn't had to be shaved to the skin this time!!
Now everyone, the dogs included, are having a bit of a doze, before we get ready to go back to the Anglers this evening. (I'm already craving a steak and have a very rumbling tum!)
Now, I may be speaking too soon, but I do think there is some progress in the eye department today. There's less discomfort and it seems much less swollen. I'm coping better with the daylight as well - so keep your fingers crossed that this is the beginning of the end!
It is years since we were last there and I'm sure we all loved it at the time. We had coffee in the main town square (where the cars were parked today) and found some lovely little shops. Now though, it's just like any other small town. In fact we could have been in Any Old Boring Town really. We all came away feeling a bit let down.
On the way though, we stopped for coffee and traybakes at The Hirsel, where we bought some beautiful glassware and Charles treated me to a couple of exquisite necklaces. Thank you Charles - I love them.
We picked the girls up from Woofcuts on the way home. They both look fab and have that lovely baby powder smell which makes a nice change from Bouquet of Smelly Dog. They've been cut quite close, but look very smart as a result. At least Rose hasn't had to be shaved to the skin this time!!
Now everyone, the dogs included, are having a bit of a doze, before we get ready to go back to the Anglers this evening. (I'm already craving a steak and have a very rumbling tum!)
Now, I may be speaking too soon, but I do think there is some progress in the eye department today. There's less discomfort and it seems much less swollen. I'm coping better with the daylight as well - so keep your fingers crossed that this is the beginning of the end!
THE GIRLS ARE OFF...
... to the hairdressers today. They are clearly so excited about this that they had to get up at 6.30 this morning. Or, most likely from what I could hear having lain in bed listening to them, ROSE woke her sister up, frantically telling her, 'Get up, get up, we're having our hair done and we don't want to be late, Come on Lily, get up!!' Poor Lily almost certainly did NOT want to be up at that time and is trying very hard to go back to sleep now, but Mrs Frantic-Knickers is determined that this is NOT going to happen!!
If we can get the timing right, Helen, Bill, Charles and I are going to have a quick trip up to Kelso while the girls are being washed and brushed up. We haven't been for ages. We may stop at the Hirsel on the way. If you don't know it, it's a little cluster of craft workshops and a coffee shop. Well worth a visit.
If we can get the timing right, Helen, Bill, Charles and I are going to have a quick trip up to Kelso while the girls are being washed and brushed up. We haven't been for ages. We may stop at the Hirsel on the way. If you don't know it, it's a little cluster of craft workshops and a coffee shop. Well worth a visit.
Friday, 6 August 2010
WELL...
... we've all been really lazy today and, apart from the time when Helen and I walked to David's Shop with the dogs, we have done absolutely nothing at all.
The boys have been more than happy watching the cricket, Helen has been reading and dozing and I have pottered about a bit.
We're still waiting to hear about Charles's car. It SHOULD be ready today, BUT it's getting perilously close to ruining Charles's plans for our 'buy one get one free' / 'eat as much as you can for next to nothing' early bird special at the local pub. He will be devastated if his plan fails to come to fruition!!
On the other hand, the rest of us probably won't mind at all as we seem to have demolished vast quantities of tea and cakes practically all day and I for one am already feeling quite sick!! (A nice bowl of lettuce leaves would go down well now.)
The boys have been more than happy watching the cricket, Helen has been reading and dozing and I have pottered about a bit.
We're still waiting to hear about Charles's car. It SHOULD be ready today, BUT it's getting perilously close to ruining Charles's plans for our 'buy one get one free' / 'eat as much as you can for next to nothing' early bird special at the local pub. He will be devastated if his plan fails to come to fruition!!
On the other hand, the rest of us probably won't mind at all as we seem to have demolished vast quantities of tea and cakes practically all day and I for one am already feeling quite sick!! (A nice bowl of lettuce leaves would go down well now.)
NOT SURE...
... what's happening today.
I know that I have to be around as I'm waiting for a delivery from John Lewis, but there's no reason why the others can't go off and do something - I don't want them to waste their day, especially as we're nearly at the end of our fortnight with Helen and Bill.
To be honest, after the two uncomfortable journeys yesterday, I'm not sure I even want to be in the car today. For some reason the light is more difficult to cope with in the car, maybe because my reactolite lenses dont react.
Every morning I wake up hoping that there will be a significant improvement in the eye department - and every morning I'm disappointed. Today is no exception.
We had a great meal at the Village Inn last night - in fact, with the exception of the fine dining at Jesmond Dene House, Charles and Bill deemed it the best meal we've eaten out this holiday! (Helen and I still voted for the Anglers mind you!)
So, back to today; we're all just sitting around waiting for Charles to get his act together and ring the garage where his merc is, so that we can find out what's happening with that and factor it into the day's plans.
(Oh - and tomorrow, the girls are off to Woofcuts for a wash and tidy up)
I know that I have to be around as I'm waiting for a delivery from John Lewis, but there's no reason why the others can't go off and do something - I don't want them to waste their day, especially as we're nearly at the end of our fortnight with Helen and Bill.
To be honest, after the two uncomfortable journeys yesterday, I'm not sure I even want to be in the car today. For some reason the light is more difficult to cope with in the car, maybe because my reactolite lenses dont react.
Every morning I wake up hoping that there will be a significant improvement in the eye department - and every morning I'm disappointed. Today is no exception.
We had a great meal at the Village Inn last night - in fact, with the exception of the fine dining at Jesmond Dene House, Charles and Bill deemed it the best meal we've eaten out this holiday! (Helen and I still voted for the Anglers mind you!)
So, back to today; we're all just sitting around waiting for Charles to get his act together and ring the garage where his merc is, so that we can find out what's happening with that and factor it into the day's plans.
(Oh - and tomorrow, the girls are off to Woofcuts for a wash and tidy up)
Thursday, 5 August 2010
I'VE GONE FROM 'ACUTE' TO 'CRITICAL'!!
And this is apparently a good thing!
It doesn't however, feel like a good thing. My left eye streamed all the way from home to the RVI and back again and is still doing it now. I've gone from two tablets a day to FIVE and now am on the dose that would be given to someone with shingles.
They've moved my appointment with the consultant forward a couple of weeks.
But hey - it's better than being acute, isn't it?
(The pharmacist said I was stylish AGAIN today!!)
It doesn't however, feel like a good thing. My left eye streamed all the way from home to the RVI and back again and is still doing it now. I've gone from two tablets a day to FIVE and now am on the dose that would be given to someone with shingles.
They've moved my appointment with the consultant forward a couple of weeks.
But hey - it's better than being acute, isn't it?
(The pharmacist said I was stylish AGAIN today!!)
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
HAD A BREAKFAST CRISIS THIS MORNING...
... there wasn't any!
So all four of us had to trek to Morpeth in search of sustenance before we faded away from starvation or had to resort to eating each other.
Once we'd satisfied our breakfast needs we shopped a bit, then rushed home to bake a cake for James to take into work tomorrow, after which we set off for Wallington Hall with the girls. Again, I'd forgotten just how magnificent it is, as it's so long since we've been there.
The girls walked their little legs off as Chares and I walked round the grounds while Helen and Bill were in the house and then did it all again with them. We met a couple who were holidaying nearby and who had just lost their Westie after thirteen years. They made a real fuss of our two, which, as you can imagine, was greatly appreciated by Lily and Rose.
One area which we all felt was somewhat disappointing however, was the catering. Not a patch on Cragside: very limited and uninspiring selection. Helen and I thought we could do a better job!!
We visited all the area of the grounds where we'd taken the kids years ago and relived some lovely memories. 'Aah weren't they sweet?' 'They still are actually!'
I remember in those golden days, that Helen would get Rachel dressed for the day and I would get James ready and somehow they always ended up wearing matching or co-ordinating outfits without any discussion between us two sisters. The only difference came when James could stay perfectly clean and neat in his pastel or even all-white outfits, while within five minutes Rachel 'the Muck Magnet' was covered in whatever gunge she could get her hands on (and in).
The girls have sept since we returned from Wallington and Helen and I have decorated Jim's cake (white chocolate buttercream and white chocoalte glace icing, topped off with a selction of truffles and Thorntons chocs).
Charles is picking up a Chinese takeaway as I write - yum yum!!
(Haven't mentioned that last night's meal at the Anglers was fab. Excellent food, vast choice, superb service - couldn't beat it!)
So all four of us had to trek to Morpeth in search of sustenance before we faded away from starvation or had to resort to eating each other.
Once we'd satisfied our breakfast needs we shopped a bit, then rushed home to bake a cake for James to take into work tomorrow, after which we set off for Wallington Hall with the girls. Again, I'd forgotten just how magnificent it is, as it's so long since we've been there.
The girls walked their little legs off as Chares and I walked round the grounds while Helen and Bill were in the house and then did it all again with them. We met a couple who were holidaying nearby and who had just lost their Westie after thirteen years. They made a real fuss of our two, which, as you can imagine, was greatly appreciated by Lily and Rose.
One area which we all felt was somewhat disappointing however, was the catering. Not a patch on Cragside: very limited and uninspiring selection. Helen and I thought we could do a better job!!
We visited all the area of the grounds where we'd taken the kids years ago and relived some lovely memories. 'Aah weren't they sweet?' 'They still are actually!'
I remember in those golden days, that Helen would get Rachel dressed for the day and I would get James ready and somehow they always ended up wearing matching or co-ordinating outfits without any discussion between us two sisters. The only difference came when James could stay perfectly clean and neat in his pastel or even all-white outfits, while within five minutes Rachel 'the Muck Magnet' was covered in whatever gunge she could get her hands on (and in).
The girls have sept since we returned from Wallington and Helen and I have decorated Jim's cake (white chocolate buttercream and white chocoalte glace icing, topped off with a selction of truffles and Thorntons chocs).
Charles is picking up a Chinese takeaway as I write - yum yum!!
(Haven't mentioned that last night's meal at the Anglers was fab. Excellent food, vast choice, superb service - couldn't beat it!)
Tuesday, 3 August 2010
EATING AT...
... the Anglers Arms this evening.
Charles and Bill have just taken Lily and Rose to the dog park for a quick runabout to tire them out before we go. They've been pretty obnoxious today actually (the dogs that is) - possibly it's payback for leaving them behind this morning!!
Have decided to return to the RVI on Thursday in the probably forlorn hope of coinciding with the woman doctor I saw last week. (Why didn't I get her name, then I could have rung to ask when she's on again?) I'm still going around with an eye that is almost shut. Surely this cannot be right after four weeks?
Don't know what's on the cards for tomorrow. Helen and Bill may go off and do their own thing as James has asked me to make a cake for work, and before I can do that I need to get some shopping in. I don't want H and B to feel as though they've had a wasted day, so will be quite happy for them to do something on their own rather than potter around doing mundane kitchen stuff with me.
Oh - and Charles has just heard that he doesn't in fact need a new gear box - just a small part that has worked loose and needs replacing. So he's happy now and it almost makes up for the National Trust rip-off this morning!
Charles and Bill have just taken Lily and Rose to the dog park for a quick runabout to tire them out before we go. They've been pretty obnoxious today actually (the dogs that is) - possibly it's payback for leaving them behind this morning!!
Have decided to return to the RVI on Thursday in the probably forlorn hope of coinciding with the woman doctor I saw last week. (Why didn't I get her name, then I could have rung to ask when she's on again?) I'm still going around with an eye that is almost shut. Surely this cannot be right after four weeks?
Don't know what's on the cards for tomorrow. Helen and Bill may go off and do their own thing as James has asked me to make a cake for work, and before I can do that I need to get some shopping in. I don't want H and B to feel as though they've had a wasted day, so will be quite happy for them to do something on their own rather than potter around doing mundane kitchen stuff with me.
Oh - and Charles has just heard that he doesn't in fact need a new gear box - just a small part that has worked loose and needs replacing. So he's happy now and it almost makes up for the National Trust rip-off this morning!
ALL I CAN HEAR...
... right now is little snores from three different directions in the living room!! And it's not me, just in case you're wondering, because clearly I'm wide awake!)
Obviously all this relaxing is exhausting for the poor things.
Obviously all this relaxing is exhausting for the poor things.
CRAGSIDE
Didn't realise how popular this place has become. It was crowded this morning - far too many people in fact - we queued in the house and in the restaurant and in the toilets. Where do all these people come from? There are way too many with southern accents we've noticed. Stay the other side of Watford Gap - we don't need you up here. (My Dad used to say 'Don't tell anyone how beautiful northumberand is. just keep it a secret and it'll remain unspoiled.'
We had a minor blip when we arrived at the main entrance as Charles decided he would join the National Trust (we used to be members, but let it lapse) only to discover that he could have done so more cheaply on line as opposed to on the gate, which resulted in a lot of bad tempered haggling on his part (he lost!) followed by repeated mutterings as he stomped his way around the house. We kept telling him to slow down and make sure he got his money's worth, but he seemed to think we were taking the mickey!!!
I'd forgotten how fascinating the house is and also how extensive the grounds are, but now that we're National Trust members I can see us up there every weekend (at least until we've covered our subscription!). It'll be a great place for walking the dogs, who we didn't take with us this morning. In the old days, we used to take our Samoyed, Storm, but we would sneak in through a side entrance that has since been blocked off. Not that it matters now that we're members though!
(So Charles has now joined Alnwick Gardens, English Heritage and the National Trust. Helen says we shouldn't let him anywhere near any Army Recruiting types, or he'll have joined that before we know it. And that reminds me of the time when we took the kids up to Otterburn when they were tiny. james could only have been about three I think and we'd stopped for a drink in a pub near the range. For once in his life James was being a little monster (he was usually the easiest-going child, but not on this particular occasion) and creating a real fuss about something. In walked a load of squaddies with their kit bags which they dumped on the floor before heading to the bar. As James was in full flow by now, his Uncle Bill sternly warned him that he'd better watch it or he'd end up in one of those 'BOY BAGS' and that they were there for the sole purpose of catching naughty little boys who were having a paddy. This actually made James shriek all the more and cling to me for dear life. In fact he remembers the incident with some discomfort to this very day!)
We're all sitting round reading and generally chillin' now. (I'm having eye problems again - not as bad as least week, but it's nowhere near healed - so I'm struggling to focus on reading much at all. In fact I'm more than a little despondent about it now.
We may go out for a meal this evening - possibly to the Three Wheatheads at Thropton, or maybe the Anglers or the Cook and Barker. What a difficult decision.
We had a minor blip when we arrived at the main entrance as Charles decided he would join the National Trust (we used to be members, but let it lapse) only to discover that he could have done so more cheaply on line as opposed to on the gate, which resulted in a lot of bad tempered haggling on his part (he lost!) followed by repeated mutterings as he stomped his way around the house. We kept telling him to slow down and make sure he got his money's worth, but he seemed to think we were taking the mickey!!!
I'd forgotten how fascinating the house is and also how extensive the grounds are, but now that we're National Trust members I can see us up there every weekend (at least until we've covered our subscription!). It'll be a great place for walking the dogs, who we didn't take with us this morning. In the old days, we used to take our Samoyed, Storm, but we would sneak in through a side entrance that has since been blocked off. Not that it matters now that we're members though!
(So Charles has now joined Alnwick Gardens, English Heritage and the National Trust. Helen says we shouldn't let him anywhere near any Army Recruiting types, or he'll have joined that before we know it. And that reminds me of the time when we took the kids up to Otterburn when they were tiny. james could only have been about three I think and we'd stopped for a drink in a pub near the range. For once in his life James was being a little monster (he was usually the easiest-going child, but not on this particular occasion) and creating a real fuss about something. In walked a load of squaddies with their kit bags which they dumped on the floor before heading to the bar. As James was in full flow by now, his Uncle Bill sternly warned him that he'd better watch it or he'd end up in one of those 'BOY BAGS' and that they were there for the sole purpose of catching naughty little boys who were having a paddy. This actually made James shriek all the more and cling to me for dear life. In fact he remembers the incident with some discomfort to this very day!)
We're all sitting round reading and generally chillin' now. (I'm having eye problems again - not as bad as least week, but it's nowhere near healed - so I'm struggling to focus on reading much at all. In fact I'm more than a little despondent about it now.
We may go out for a meal this evening - possibly to the Three Wheatheads at Thropton, or maybe the Anglers or the Cook and Barker. What a difficult decision.
TUESDAY MORNING
And Charles and Bill have gone off to to take the merc to the garage in Amble where it is probably going to have a new gear box (OUCH!).
That has left Helen and I having a quiet start to the day, but has also given us an opportunity to talk about what on earth we're going to do for Charles's birthday on Sunday. We haven't got a clue to be honest! If anyone has any ideas please feel free to post them on here!
We'll prbably give Cragside another go today as we now know that it will indeed be open today. It's a long time since we've all been there. The last time we'd taken Christina, James and Rachel when they were still young enough to want to play on the adventure playground that they have in the woods. We'd left the car literally 50 yards from the playground and, as it was early on a Sunday morning and there was no one else in sight, Helen and I had foolishly left our bags on the backseat of the car. Of course by the time we returned the car had a shattered back window and our bags were gone.
At the time Helen was pregnant with Hannah (who's 21 now, so this gives you an idea of how long ago it was) and was carrying a urine sample around in ther bag - she'd used a miniature whisky bottle for the purpose. Once we'd got over the shock, we had to chuckle at the thought of our thief having a quick snifter!
On the other hand I managed to get myself into hot water with my then bank, TSB.
For some reason that week I'd been sent THREE new chequebooks. Clearly a mistake on the part of the bank, but also I had made the mistake of shoving them into my bag without thinking any more about it.
It was only when the cheques began to appear some weeks later bearing a very convincing imitation of my signature, that TSB decided I must have been in on the act and I ended up being suspected of theft and fraud and had a number of interviews with CID, during the first of which I was fingerprinted!! (Well of course my fingerprints are on the chequebooks - I put them in my bag for God's sake!)
I couldn't believe this turn of events and, fortunately for me, the culprits were caught red-handed in Newcastle attempting to cash another cheque. If they hadn't who knows where it would have left me. I used to wake up in the middle of the night, imagining spending the rest of my life behind bars. It was not a pleasant experience.
That has left Helen and I having a quiet start to the day, but has also given us an opportunity to talk about what on earth we're going to do for Charles's birthday on Sunday. We haven't got a clue to be honest! If anyone has any ideas please feel free to post them on here!
We'll prbably give Cragside another go today as we now know that it will indeed be open today. It's a long time since we've all been there. The last time we'd taken Christina, James and Rachel when they were still young enough to want to play on the adventure playground that they have in the woods. We'd left the car literally 50 yards from the playground and, as it was early on a Sunday morning and there was no one else in sight, Helen and I had foolishly left our bags on the backseat of the car. Of course by the time we returned the car had a shattered back window and our bags were gone.
At the time Helen was pregnant with Hannah (who's 21 now, so this gives you an idea of how long ago it was) and was carrying a urine sample around in ther bag - she'd used a miniature whisky bottle for the purpose. Once we'd got over the shock, we had to chuckle at the thought of our thief having a quick snifter!
On the other hand I managed to get myself into hot water with my then bank, TSB.
For some reason that week I'd been sent THREE new chequebooks. Clearly a mistake on the part of the bank, but also I had made the mistake of shoving them into my bag without thinking any more about it.
It was only when the cheques began to appear some weeks later bearing a very convincing imitation of my signature, that TSB decided I must have been in on the act and I ended up being suspected of theft and fraud and had a number of interviews with CID, during the first of which I was fingerprinted!! (Well of course my fingerprints are on the chequebooks - I put them in my bag for God's sake!)
I couldn't believe this turn of events and, fortunately for me, the culprits were caught red-handed in Newcastle attempting to cash another cheque. If they hadn't who knows where it would have left me. I used to wake up in the middle of the night, imagining spending the rest of my life behind bars. It was not a pleasant experience.
Monday, 2 August 2010
AND TALKING ABOUT THE CAT...
... (as I was earlier)
Her name escapes me now, as we've had a few cats in our time, until we discovered that I am actually allergic to them and we decided we'd better not get anymore. The last one we had was the cutest little part-Siamese, part-street tabby that I brought home from Linton when I was the head there. He'd arrived in a basket and I swore I was just going to look at him, but as soon as I saw this tiny little thing spreadeageled against the sides of the basket and hanging on for dear life, I knew he would be coming home with me.
We called him Willow. This name didn't suit him in any way at all. He turned out to be completely psychopathic, would take your arm off if you tried to stroke him and was known by the vet in Rothbury as 'The Longfram Cat.' The only person who he ever got close to was Charles, who hated him on sight, but would fall asleep on the settee after a busy day at work and we would find that Willow was using him as a cushion without Charles being any the wiser!!
When we first got him, he was so tiny that we would compare him with the little stone doorstop pig that measures aout four inches long. James would be fascinated by his smallness and would get us to 'Put him next to the pig' to check his growth.
He soon outgrew the pig and became a ferocious, manic and huge tom who terrorised the neighbourhood, even after we'd had him neutered. We would hear all hell break loose somewhere in the village in the middle of the night and just knew it was Willow.
Anyway - I wasn't going to write about him. I was recalling th cat we had at Six Eagles, who after we'd blocked up the cat flap, decided to throw herself out of the bedroom window in a fit of pique, presumably forgetting that it was three stories up. I can remember sitting on the settee quietly watching TV (in our first floor sitting room) and seeing this fluffy flash whizz past the window at some considerable speed.
Going downstairs to investigate, we expected the worst, but discovered her giving herself a bit of a shake and then she calmly walked into the house and up the stairs as though nothing untoward had happened.
Her name escapes me now, as we've had a few cats in our time, until we discovered that I am actually allergic to them and we decided we'd better not get anymore. The last one we had was the cutest little part-Siamese, part-street tabby that I brought home from Linton when I was the head there. He'd arrived in a basket and I swore I was just going to look at him, but as soon as I saw this tiny little thing spreadeageled against the sides of the basket and hanging on for dear life, I knew he would be coming home with me.
We called him Willow. This name didn't suit him in any way at all. He turned out to be completely psychopathic, would take your arm off if you tried to stroke him and was known by the vet in Rothbury as 'The Longfram Cat.' The only person who he ever got close to was Charles, who hated him on sight, but would fall asleep on the settee after a busy day at work and we would find that Willow was using him as a cushion without Charles being any the wiser!!
When we first got him, he was so tiny that we would compare him with the little stone doorstop pig that measures aout four inches long. James would be fascinated by his smallness and would get us to 'Put him next to the pig' to check his growth.
He soon outgrew the pig and became a ferocious, manic and huge tom who terrorised the neighbourhood, even after we'd had him neutered. We would hear all hell break loose somewhere in the village in the middle of the night and just knew it was Willow.
Anyway - I wasn't going to write about him. I was recalling th cat we had at Six Eagles, who after we'd blocked up the cat flap, decided to throw herself out of the bedroom window in a fit of pique, presumably forgetting that it was three stories up. I can remember sitting on the settee quietly watching TV (in our first floor sitting room) and seeing this fluffy flash whizz past the window at some considerable speed.
Going downstairs to investigate, we expected the worst, but discovered her giving herself a bit of a shake and then she calmly walked into the house and up the stairs as though nothing untoward had happened.
GUESS WHAT?
CRAGSIDE IS CLOSED ON MONDAYS!!
We discovered this only when we pulled up at the gate!
If only we'd done Cragside yesterday and Corbridge today we mighthave had more joy.
Never mind, we went to the co-op in Rothbury and bought stuff for a picnic, went home, made sufficient sandwiches to start our own sandwich business and headed up to Ingram Valley where we went for a good long walk with the girls, trying to avoid all the sheep poop. They had a little paddle in the river (which is incredibly low and just goes to show how little rain we've had recently) and then we settled down for our lunch while the girls lay on their rug with a chewstick each.
At least Ingram Valley is never likely to be shut!
We discovered this only when we pulled up at the gate!
If only we'd done Cragside yesterday and Corbridge today we mighthave had more joy.
Never mind, we went to the co-op in Rothbury and bought stuff for a picnic, went home, made sufficient sandwiches to start our own sandwich business and headed up to Ingram Valley where we went for a good long walk with the girls, trying to avoid all the sheep poop. They had a little paddle in the river (which is incredibly low and just goes to show how little rain we've had recently) and then we settled down for our lunch while the girls lay on their rug with a chewstick each.
At least Ingram Valley is never likely to be shut!
AND NOW I'VE REMEMBERED...
... a horror story that happened inside Six Eagles.
We had a cat at that time!!
Our house was a three story open-plan town house. You could stand on the landing of the top floor and see right the way down to the hall on the ground floor, where there was also a cloakroom and bedroom. On the first floor were the kitchen and living room and upstairs were two more bedrooms and the bathroom.
Christina was tiny and fast asleep in her room and we were also asleep when I was woken by what I thought was the sound of an intruder. For some reason I decided to tiptoe to the top of the stairs and tried to peer over, listening out for someone rummaging through our stuff but not being able to see anything becuse I hadn't got my lenses in. When I heard distinct noises again, I tore back into the bedroom and woke Charles telling him that there was a burglar in the house and he needed to get up and sort it out.
By now the burglar was getting really agitated and had started to throw stuff around. It sounded like he was sweeping stuff off the dresser in disgust- presumably because it wasn't worth stealing.
As soon as Charles put the light on we could see (well, I couldn't make it out properly and it looked like blood to me) GREAT BIG PATCHES OF BLACK FEATHERS all over the carpet and as Charles made his way downstairs he found our cat sitting at the bottom of the dresser and a STARLING sitting on the top shelf having left a trail of blood, feathers, poop and broken crockery in it's wake.
As soon as he yelled up to me that it was a bird and that it was almost dead, I had an attack of hyseria and leapt back into bed, having shut the bedroom door to prevent this mortally wounded creature from flying up another flight of stairs and attacking ME, pulled the duvet over my head and assumed the foetal position. (Christina was still asleep through all of this horror, but to my shame I have to confess that once I was aware it was a bird, there is no way I could have left the room to go to her.)
Meanwhile Charles is downstairs trying to catch the wretched thing which was apparently terrified and had a broken neck so was pretty near death. He also had to cope with the bloody cat who was growling at the change of game plan and was less than impressed that Charles had joined the chase.
He somehow managed to get the bird down to the ground floor where he tried to put it out of it's misery by bashing it on the head with a book from the shelf in the spare bedroom. I can remember yelling 'Don't use the Bible Charles' and he shouted back, 'It's okay, I've got "The Teaching of PE in schools since 1945" and me saying, 'Oh good!'
He gave it a sharp smack on the head and it went down...
... and then got up again and started haring up and down the hallway only for Charles to have to rugby tackle it before it finally submitted to the inevitable.
There then followed the cleaning up process which took the rest of the night as we discovered that one starling has an awful lot of feathers, bleeds copiously when chewed by a cat and can produce more than twice it's body weight in poop.
And the very next morning we boarded up the cat flap!!
We had a cat at that time!!
Our house was a three story open-plan town house. You could stand on the landing of the top floor and see right the way down to the hall on the ground floor, where there was also a cloakroom and bedroom. On the first floor were the kitchen and living room and upstairs were two more bedrooms and the bathroom.
Christina was tiny and fast asleep in her room and we were also asleep when I was woken by what I thought was the sound of an intruder. For some reason I decided to tiptoe to the top of the stairs and tried to peer over, listening out for someone rummaging through our stuff but not being able to see anything becuse I hadn't got my lenses in. When I heard distinct noises again, I tore back into the bedroom and woke Charles telling him that there was a burglar in the house and he needed to get up and sort it out.
By now the burglar was getting really agitated and had started to throw stuff around. It sounded like he was sweeping stuff off the dresser in disgust- presumably because it wasn't worth stealing.
As soon as Charles put the light on we could see (well, I couldn't make it out properly and it looked like blood to me) GREAT BIG PATCHES OF BLACK FEATHERS all over the carpet and as Charles made his way downstairs he found our cat sitting at the bottom of the dresser and a STARLING sitting on the top shelf having left a trail of blood, feathers, poop and broken crockery in it's wake.
As soon as he yelled up to me that it was a bird and that it was almost dead, I had an attack of hyseria and leapt back into bed, having shut the bedroom door to prevent this mortally wounded creature from flying up another flight of stairs and attacking ME, pulled the duvet over my head and assumed the foetal position. (Christina was still asleep through all of this horror, but to my shame I have to confess that once I was aware it was a bird, there is no way I could have left the room to go to her.)
Meanwhile Charles is downstairs trying to catch the wretched thing which was apparently terrified and had a broken neck so was pretty near death. He also had to cope with the bloody cat who was growling at the change of game plan and was less than impressed that Charles had joined the chase.
He somehow managed to get the bird down to the ground floor where he tried to put it out of it's misery by bashing it on the head with a book from the shelf in the spare bedroom. I can remember yelling 'Don't use the Bible Charles' and he shouted back, 'It's okay, I've got "The Teaching of PE in schools since 1945" and me saying, 'Oh good!'
He gave it a sharp smack on the head and it went down...
... and then got up again and started haring up and down the hallway only for Charles to have to rugby tackle it before it finally submitted to the inevitable.
There then followed the cleaning up process which took the rest of the night as we discovered that one starling has an awful lot of feathers, bleeds copiously when chewed by a cat and can produce more than twice it's body weight in poop.
And the very next morning we boarded up the cat flap!!
HAVE JUST REMEMBERED...
... another bird related story...
... but a funny one this time.
We used to live in a small (select!) development called 'Eagles' in Faringdon, Oxforshire. We lived at number six, and when I was telling my sister the new address she clearly misheard and thought I'd actually said, 'Sick Seagulls' as opposed to 'Six Eagles'.
Anyway, she decided to test the postman and sent us a postcard from wherever she was on holiday at the time with our name, 'Sick Seagulls' as the address and little sketches of poorly gulls being sick all over the place - and it actually got to us (before she got home from her hols, which is always unusual, but was exceptional in this case!!!)
... but a funny one this time.
We used to live in a small (select!) development called 'Eagles' in Faringdon, Oxforshire. We lived at number six, and when I was telling my sister the new address she clearly misheard and thought I'd actually said, 'Sick Seagulls' as opposed to 'Six Eagles'.
Anyway, she decided to test the postman and sent us a postcard from wherever she was on holiday at the time with our name, 'Sick Seagulls' as the address and little sketches of poorly gulls being sick all over the place - and it actually got to us (before she got home from her hols, which is always unusual, but was exceptional in this case!!!)
MAY POSTPONE...
... the trip to Holy Island, as the weather isn't brilliant. Not that I've EVER been to Holy Island on a good day; even when I used to take the kids from school my main recollection is of trying to find shelter from the elements - AND the seagulls as well come to think of it. I couldn't possibly eat my packed lunch for fear that I was going to be swooped on and would then pass out from terror, disgracing myself in front of the children. It was also a non-starter for me to ever do the Billy Shiels boat trip round the Farnes - that would be my idea of sheer hell, all that swooping and diving and flapping (and that would have just been me trying to escape from the gulls!)
I remember being in the Vendee one year when our kids were little. I think it was the year we decided to go for the whole of the summer holiday and we must have run out of stuff to do, because somehow we ended up going to a Bird of Prey centre and attempted to watch a display which filled all the rest of the audience with awe, but reduced me to a jibbering wreck seeking refuge UNDER the seats and covered by an umbrella. This is NOT an exagerration and I could still have cold sweats thinking about it even now.
But, the worst place for birds (apart from Kielder Water which is chock full of the little types that are sometimes worse than big ones) was at the fish and chip shop just before we got the ferry at the terminal in Amsterdam. These were quite simply the biggest, most agressive and persistant gulls ever. They started to attack as soon as people came out of the shop and then blocked the way to their cars and then landed ON the cars, pecking at the windows and the roof just like a scene from that old Hitchcock horror. Needless to say, I didn't even attempt to get out of the car and just looked on in shocked horror waiting for the moment when their beaks broke through the window at which point I just knew I would die of a terror-inducd panic-attack.
(Now that I come to think about it, maybe we'll not go to Holy Island at all - just in case!)
I remember being in the Vendee one year when our kids were little. I think it was the year we decided to go for the whole of the summer holiday and we must have run out of stuff to do, because somehow we ended up going to a Bird of Prey centre and attempted to watch a display which filled all the rest of the audience with awe, but reduced me to a jibbering wreck seeking refuge UNDER the seats and covered by an umbrella. This is NOT an exagerration and I could still have cold sweats thinking about it even now.
But, the worst place for birds (apart from Kielder Water which is chock full of the little types that are sometimes worse than big ones) was at the fish and chip shop just before we got the ferry at the terminal in Amsterdam. These were quite simply the biggest, most agressive and persistant gulls ever. They started to attack as soon as people came out of the shop and then blocked the way to their cars and then landed ON the cars, pecking at the windows and the roof just like a scene from that old Hitchcock horror. Needless to say, I didn't even attempt to get out of the car and just looked on in shocked horror waiting for the moment when their beaks broke through the window at which point I just knew I would die of a terror-inducd panic-attack.
(Now that I come to think about it, maybe we'll not go to Holy Island at all - just in case!)
Sunday, 1 August 2010
JUST WANTED YOU TO KNOW...
... that in the last couple of hours I have been able to open my left eye without feeling as if the lid is weighted down and have even managed to cope in the daylight without squinting!
This is a major development!
This is a major development!
CORBRIDGE IS...
...SHUT ON A SUNDAY!
And Hexham isn't much better.
However, the Rat Inn is very much open for business. We were fortunate to get a table as we hadn't booked, but we had an excellent Sunday lunch sitting in the garden with the dogs, under a parasol, overlooking the Tyne Valley. It doesn't get much better than that!
And Hexham isn't much better.
However, the Rat Inn is very much open for business. We were fortunate to get a table as we hadn't booked, but we had an excellent Sunday lunch sitting in the garden with the dogs, under a parasol, overlooking the Tyne Valley. It doesn't get much better than that!
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